Capital of Finlande, Helsinki captivates with its unique balance between modernity and nature. Overlooking the Gulf of Finlande, this coastal city blends dynamic urban life with serene green spaces. Waterfront strolls, creative neighbourhoods and a relaxed Nordic atmosphere define its character. You'll discover a welcoming and inventive city, ideal for a stay combining culture, design and Nordic ease of living.

History

Founded in 1550 by Swedish King Gustav Vasa under the name Helsingfors, Helsinki was meant to rival Tallinn. The first settlement was established in Vanhakaupunki, where a plaque commemorates the former church. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the city was repeatedly burned and occupied, leading to the construction of the Suomenlinna maritime fortress, today a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After the 1808–1809 war, Finlande was annexed by Russia and Helsinki became the capital of the Grand Duchy in 1812. Architect Carl Ludwig Engel then redesigned its neoclassical centre, still visible around Senate Square. As capital of independent Finlande in 1917, the city withstood Second World War bombardments and hosted the 1975 Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, marking its international role.

Helsinki Today

A modern and dynamic capital, Helsinki is transforming former industrial spaces like Jätkäsaari and Pasila into sustainable residential and cultural neighbourhoods, animated by cafés and waterfront walks. Renowned as the world's design capital, it places architectural innovation at the heart of its identity, with iconic projects such as the future architecture and design museum. Mobility is also a priority, with tram network expansion and the development of electric vehicles. Named among the world's most sustainable destinations, Helsinki combines creativity, quality of life and environmental respect, offering travellers a city that is both welcoming and forward-looking.

What to See and Do in Helsinki?

• Suomenlinna Fortress : accessible by a twenty-minute ferry ride, this UNESCO-listed fortress immerses you in Finnish military history. Its ramparts, museums and green spaces make it an ideal outing for a few hours.
• Helsinki Cathedral : on Senate Square, the imposing neoclassical cathedral designed by Carl Ludwig Engel dominates the city. Its monumental staircase leads to stunning views over the harbour and centre.
• Temppeliaukio Church : carved into rock, this 1960s church seduces with its original architecture and remarkable acoustics, perfect for concerts.
• Old Market Hall : this covered market invites you to taste smoked salmon, reindeer meat or Finnish pastries in an authentic atmosphere.
• Seaside Saunas : a true Finnish institution, the sauna here faces the Baltic. After the heat, dive into the sea for a unique local experience.
• Nuuksio National Park : thirty minutes from the capital, it offers hiking, picnics and moments of relaxation in pristine nature.
• Seurasaari Open-Air Museum : accessible by a footbridge, this museum recreates Finnish daily life from the 18th to 20th century in a wooded setting.
• Esplanadi : this central park, lined with cafés and boutiques, is a pleasant place to stroll. In summer, it hosts concerts and events.
• Hietaniemi Beach and Linnanmäki Park : to vary your stay, enjoy swimming and summer activities at Hietaniemi or the rides at Linnanmäki amusement park and its aquarium.

When to Visit?

Helsinki can be discovered year-round, each season offering a particular atmosphere.

• Spring : days grow longer and the city gently comes alive, ideal for exploring parks and neighbourhoods without crowds.
• Summer : in June, cafés set up outdoor terraces and nights seem endless. July is quieter, while August brings the city back to life.
• Autumn : September and October offer landscapes with vibrant colours, perfect for combining city walks and nature.
• Winter : in December, ice skating and Christmas markets create a warm atmosphere before the deep cold. Snow and saunas add Nordic charm to the capital.

How to Get There?

• By Air : all international and domestic flights land at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, located about twenty kilometres from the centre. Well-served from Europe, East Asia, Russia and a few American airports, it allows you to reach the capital in about thirty minutes thanks to direct trains and buses.
• By Ferry : a pleasant alternative if you're exploring the Baltic. Regular connections link Helsinki to Tallinn (2h30), Stockholm (17h) and Saint Petersburg (13h). You arrive directly at the port, a stone's throw from Market Square and the lively central neighbourhoods.
• By Train : the central station welcomes long-distance trains from major Finnish cities like Tampere and Turku. Internationally, Saint Petersburg (2h30, four trains daily) and Moscow (overnight train in 15h) remain the only connections, with possible onward travel on the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Getting Around

Helsinki is easily discovered thanks to its compact size and multiple transport options. The HSL network covers metro, tram, bus and ferry, but other alternatives let you explore the city differently.

• On Foot : the centre is easy to visit in a day. A walk along the waterfront or through Kaivopuisto Park offers lovely viewpoints and a chance to pause in a seaside café.
• By Bike : from spring to autumn, cycle paths are plentiful and the HSL bike-sharing service is convenient for getting around. You can easily reach quieter residential neighbourhoods or ride along the coast.
• By Electric Scooter : available throughout the city, they let you quickly reach neighbourhoods like Kallio, animated by its markets and trendy cafés.
• By Public Transport : metro, tram and bus efficiently serve the capital and its suburbs. A single ticket covers the entire network, ferry included, with advantageous packages for multiple days.
• By Ferry : from Market Square, reach Suomenlinna in fifteen minutes or board for other small islands like Lonna. Arriving by boat offers a unique perspective on the capital.