Finland · City Guide
Helsinki
Helsinki is a beautiful and sophisticated Nordic capital, a city of outstanding design culture and Art Nouveau architecture set on a peninsula between the Baltic Sea and the Archipelago Sea, combining the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square, the exceptional Design District, outstanding restaurants, the vibrant Market Square and easy access to the extraordinary Finnish archipelago by ferry. Often understated, Helsinki delivers a quality of design, food and urban experience that consistently surprises.
Elect's take
"Helsinki has a clarity of design and a quality of urban life that I find genuinely impressive. The combination of outstanding architecture, excellent food, beautiful waterfront and the proximity of the archipelago creates a destination that rewards extended exploration."
Senate Square with Helsinki Cathedral is one of the finest neoclassical urban spaces in northern Europe, the cathedral's white dome visible from across the city providing the defining image of the Helsinki skyline. The Design District concentrates over 200 design shops, galleries, museums and studios in the Punavuori neighbourhood creating one of the world's finest design tourism experiences. The Temppeliaukio Church, carved directly from bedrock, is one of the most architecturally extraordinary sacred spaces in Europe. The Ateneum houses Finland's finest art collection with outstanding Finnish and Nordic works. The Market Square along the harbour provides excellent local food including fresh salmon, rye bread and cloudberries. Ferry services to Tallinn and Stockholm provide beautiful Baltic Sea excursions.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Helsinki Cathedral
A magnificent neoclassical cathedral dominating the beautiful Senate Square.
Design District
Over 200 design shops, galleries and studios in the world's finest design tourism destination.
Temppeliaukio Church
A remarkable church carved directly from bedrock, one of Europe's most extraordinary sacred spaces.
Market Square
Helsinki's beautiful harbour market with outstanding local food including fresh salmon.
Ateneum
Finland's finest art collection with outstanding Finnish and Nordic works.
Baltic Sea Ferries
Beautiful ferry journeys to Tallinn and Stockholm through the Finnish archipelago.
