In Helsinki, architecture, history and the sea come together. Discover the city’s landmarks – from grand cathedrals to quiet chapels and the island fortress of Suomenlinna in the horizon.

In the heart of Helsinki, the white towers of Helsinki Cathedral rise above Senate Square. Step inside to admire its calm neoclassical beauty or enjoy the stunning views across the the square and the harbour atop the stairs.

The Kamppi Chapel, also known as the Chapel of Silence, is a minimalist haven in the city centre. The architectural masterpiece has a unique, bent and soft shape, constructed in wood.

Temppeliaukio Church, which also goes by the name Church in the Rock, is carved into solid rock and crowned with a copper dome, and the church fills with sunlight and music – a striking blend of nature, faith and modern Finnish design.

Just a short ferry ride from Market Square, the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress extends Helsinki’s story out to sea. This 18th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site spans six islands, offering scenic walks, cafés, museums and panoramic views of the archipelago – a perfect blend of history and nature.

Discover Helsinki’s creative spirit through its world-class museums – from timeless art to bold modern design, each offering a glimpse into Finland’s cultural soul. These are some of the highlights worth visiting.

As part of Finland’s National Gallery, Art Museum Ateneum houses masterpieces by Albert Edelfelt, Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Helene Schjerfbeck. A must for anyone wishing to explore Finland’s artistic heritage.

Amos Rex offers a striking fusion of modern art and architecture beneath Lasipalatsi Square. Renowned for its immersive exhibitions and cutting-edge contemporary installations, it redefines the museum experience.

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is a significant art museum that showcases bold Finnish and international works in a striking curved building — a landmark of Helsinki’s modern design and creative energy.

Celebrate Finnish design from Alvar Aalto to today’s creative innovators at Architecture and Design Museum – a fascinating journey through form, function and the enduring simplicity of Nordic style.

Photo: Pirje Mykkänen

Helsinki offers a stylish mix of international brands, Nordic design and local craftsmanship – from elegant department stores to independent boutiques and creative markets. You’ll find everything from timeless Finnish classics to emerging labels and beautiful everyday essentials.

For fashion and lifestyle, head to Aleksanterinkatu and Esplanadi, the city’s most elegant shopping streets lined with flagship stores and design houses such as Marimekko, Iittala and Artek. Drop by Kämp Galleria, tucked between the two streets, for curated Nordic brands and cafés in chic surroundings. Or explore Stockmann, Finland’s largest department store, offering six floors of fashion, beauty and homeware – plus panoramic views from the top-floor café.

Design enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Design District, a creative hub of more than 200 boutiques, galleries and studios – the perfect place to discover Finnish creativity, from Aalto’s iconic design to contemporary ceramics and jewellery.

Photo: Julia Kivelä, Visit Finland

Few things capture the Finnish way of life quite like the sauna. In Helsinki, sauna culture is part of the city’s daily rhythm, with everything from neighbourhood favourites to striking design landmarks.

Löyly, designed by Avanto Architects and built from layered timber, has become a modern Helsinki icon where visitors move between the steam and the open sea.

Across the city, Allas Pool by Market Square (Kauppatori), by Huttunen-Lipasti-Pakkanen Architects, offers heated and seawater pools, several saunas, and unbeatable views of the harbour – a perfect blend of wellbeing and urban energy.

If you’re after a slower pace, Helsinki’s spa hotels invite you to recharge in calm surroundings. Many combine Nordic simplicity with modern treatments, saunas, pools and quiet zones – ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing before heading out again to explore the city’s restaurants and nightlife.

Photo: Lauri Rotko, Visit Finland

For a memorable night in Helsinki, start with live music at The Riff or karaoke at Wallis’ Skatta Karaoke Bar – two local favourites where the fun continues late into the night, with everything from live rock to English and Finnish karaoke hits.

For an ultra-stylish night out, head to Struts — a queer-friendly cocktail bar in Helsinki, complete with daring drinks, chandeliers, and a golden ostrich.

And for something truly unique, don’t miss a ride on SpåraKOFF – Helsinki’s iconic pub-tram that glides through the city past its main sights. Seats are limited, so it’s worth booking ahead to secure your spot on this moving bar with a view.

More about karaoke bars in Helsinki

Helsinki’s dining scene celebrates the seasons, and the city’s chefs combine local ingredients with global inspiration. From Michelin-starred restaurants such as Boon Nam, Olo and Palace to relaxed Nordic bistros such as The Social Helsinki or The Social Mestari.

For vibrant food halls, there’s also something to discover. Try Vanha Kauppahalli by the harbour or Hietalahti Market Hall with its mix of street-food stalls and cafés. Teurastamo is also worth a visit – it is a former abattoir in the Hermanni district, now transformed into a creative hub with restaurants, microbreweries, markets and lively cultural events.

Before you start exploring Helsinki’s sights, shops and shoreline, the most important choice is where to stay. Luckily, the city offers a wide range of hotels to suit every budget and style. Compact, creative and effortlessly welcoming, Helsinki is a capital best enjoyed from a central base – close to the vibrant harbour, design boutiques, historic landmarks and the city’s many cosy cafés.