Helsinki : 3 days trip
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, offers a unique blend of history, design, and culinary delights. Here's how to spend three perfect days exploring this Nordic gem.
FINLAND
Helsinki can be a great stop before going to Laponia. Or it can also be a great European getaway.
Note: I have been in November and it was freezing, if you are going at the same period be prepared!
Here is the guide to making the most of three days:
Day 1: Dive Into Helsinki’s History and Culture
Day 2: Explore History and Local Traditions
Day 3: Architecture, Culture, and Hidden Gems
During my stay in Helsinki I stayed at the Scandic Helsinki Hub, a stylish and centrally located hotel that makes exploring the city a breeze.
With its sleek, modern interiors and excellent amenities, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a full day of sightseeing. Its proximity to major attractions ensures that you’ll spend less time commuting and more time soaking up Helsinki’s charm.
Price: around $130 per night.
Where to stay?
DAY 1:
Kick off your journey at Senate Square, the city’s historic heart. Surrounded by neoclassical buildings, including the Government Palace and the University of Helsinki, the square is an architectural masterpiece. At the center stands the bronze statue of Alexander II, a nod to Finland’s history as part of the Russian Empire.
Climbing the steps to Helsinki Cathedral, you’ll be greeted by one of Finland’s most iconic landmarks. This pristine white church with its green domes is as breathtaking inside as it is from the outside. (Free entrance).
From the square, take a short walk to the Port of Helsinki, a lively hub where ferries depart for nearby islands. Right next to it is the Market Square, a vibrant open-air market where you can browse for Finnish handicrafts, fresh berries, and traditional snacks like reindeer jerky.
Next, step into Gamla Saluhallen, Helsinki’s oldest indoor market. This historic building is brimming with stalls offering Finnish and international delicacies.
For lunch, grab a table at Story, located within the market, and try their creamy and aromatic salmon soup—a Nordic classic that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Expect to spend €15–20 per person.
After lunch, make your way to Uspenski Cathedral, a striking Eastern Orthodox church with golden onion domes and red-brick walls. The interior is adorned with intricate icons and chandeliers that highlight the grandeur of its Russian influence. (Free entrance).
Spend the late afternoon wandering through the Katajanokka District, known for its unique Art Nouveau buildings. Each street feels like a step back in time, with charming façades and intricate details that architecture lovers will adore.
End your day with dinner at Via Tribunal, where you can indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza, paired with a creamy tiramisu for dessert. Dinner costs around €20–25 per person, including drinks.
DAY 2:
Start your second day with a 15-minute ferry ride to Suomenlinna, an 18th-century sea fortress that spans six islands. As you explore its cobblestone paths, old cannons, and historic buildings, you’ll gain insight into Finland’s military past. The ferry ride costs about $5 for a round trip, and entrance to the fortress itself is free, though guided tours are available for around $10 per person.
After returning to the mainland, stop by E. Eriksson at the Market Square for a delightful tapas plate. The blend of local and Mediterranean flavors is a testament to Helsinki’s culinary creativity. Lunch costs around €20–25 per person.
No visit to Finland is complete without a sauna experience, and Löyly offers one of the best in Helsinki. Situated on the waterfront, this modern sauna complex features both traditional and smoke saunas. Entrance fees start at €21 per person for a 2-hour session, and between sauna sessions, you can relax with stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
For dinner, indulge in a gastronomic experience at Nokka, a fine-dining restaurant known for its dedication to locally sourced ingredients. From wild game to freshly caught fish, every dish tells a story of Finland’s natural bounty. Expect to spend €50–70 per person for this great dining experience.
DAY 3:
Begin your day with a visit to the Helsinki Central Railway Station, a typical Finnish design. Its Art Nouveau style and iconic stone figures guarding the entrance make it more than just a transit hub—it’s a symbol of Helsinki’s architectural heritage. Entry is free.
Next, head to the Temppeliaukio Church, a marvel of modern architecture carved directly into solid rock. The interplay of natural stone walls and a copper dome creates a serene and astonishing atmosphere. Entry costs $5 per person, and the church’s acoustics make it a popular venue for concerts, so check the schedule to see if you can catch a performance.
Take a stroll through Lasipalatsi Square, a vibrant area featuring the restored Amos Rex Museum and sleek modernist buildings. Stop for lunch at Café Java, where you can enjoy a hearty meal or a light snack. Lunch costs around $15–20 per person.
Revisit Katajanokka to discover more of this neighborhood and enjoy a peaceful walk by the waterfront. The district’s blend of tranquility and history provides the perfect setting for your last evening in Helsinki.
Savor some Mexican flavors at Chalupa, a spot offering delicious tacos and margaritas. Dinner here costs around $15–20 per person.
Afterward, head to Trillby & Chadwick, a speakeasy bar with an air of mystery. The prohibition-era décor and creative cocktails, priced around $12–15 each, make for a perfect end to your trip.
