The Finnish summer is a highly anticipated season for all domestic and international travellers, as it allows us to enjoy long days, beautiful nature, and the outdoors. Finland’s capital city, Helsinki, offers many activities and attractions for travellers of all ages. This article will provide over 20 tips for things to do in Helsinki during the summer.
;)
Helsinki is located by the sea, so the city has many beautiful beaches where you can enjoy summer days. For example, Hietaniemi Beach is a popular spot with good opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Lauttasaari Beach and Pihlajasaari Sand Beach are also popular places.
Suomenlinna is one of Helsinki’s most popular attractions and is especially beautiful during the summer. The island is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and cycling. There are also many restaurants and cafes to enjoy delicious food with a sea view.
Linnanmäki, on the other hand, is Finland’s most popular amusement park and a favourite destination, especially among families with children. The amusement park offers a variety of rides and games, making it easy to spend a whole day there. Linnanmäki is also home to Sea Life, an aquarium where you can see various marine creatures.
Korkeasaari Zoo is also a popular summer destination where you can see various animals. The zoo is off the coast of Helsinki but is easily accessible by ferry or bus. Korkeasaari is a large and diverse zoo, home to polar bears, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys.
Helsinki hosts many cultural events during the summer, so carefully plan your city visit. For example, Helsinki Festival takes place at the end of August and offers many concerts, theatre performances, and other events. Helsinki’s Summer Opening, held at the end of May, features many free events and activities.
Helsinki’s city centre is full of boutiques, department stores, and markets where you can find interesting items. We recommend visiting Aleksanterinkatu, one of the city’s most famous shopping streets. There are many international chain stores and small and unique shops. The Market Square (Tori) and Kauppatori are also popular places for shopping, where you can buy everything from fresh fish to handicrafts.
Helsinki is known for its parks, which are especially enjoyable to visit during the summer. For example, Central Park (Keskuspuisto) is one of the city’s largest parks, where you can hike, cycle, or enjoy beautiful nature. Kaisaniemi Park is near the city centre and features many flower beds and beautiful fountains. Töölönlahti is a popular spot for walking and picnicking.
Helsinki is a beautiful city; the best way to see its beauty is from the water. The archipelago off the coast of Helsinki is a stunning sight, and boating is one of the best ways to experience it. Many companies in the city organize boat trips to the archipelago, offering various options ranging from half-hour cruises to full-day excursions.
We also recommend trying a cruise, which offers magnificent views of the city and its surroundings. In addition to cruises to Sweden and Estonia, there are cruises to the Suomenlinna fortress island, a popular destination.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum is a popular place to explore Finnish history and traditions. The museum is located on a beautiful island, which can be easily reached by bus or boat. There are old houses on the island that have been relocated from various parts of Finland, giving visitors a glimpse into the country’s rural architecture and way of life. The museum hosts events and exhibitions throughout the summer, showcasing traditional crafts, folk dances, and other cultural activities.
Helsinki boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. During the summer, the city comes alive with outdoor terraces and rooftop bars to enjoy a refreshing drink and soak in the atmosphere. The district of Kallio is known for its trendy bars and alternative music venues, while the city centre offers a wide range of options to suit different tastes.
The sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, and experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna is a must when visiting Helsinki. There are several public saunas in the city to enjoy this relaxing and rejuvenating activity. Löyly, located by the waterfront in Hernesaari, is a popular choice with its modern architecture and stunning views. Allas Sea Pool, near Market Square, offers a unique experience with its seafront saunas and outdoor pools.
Helsinki has a thriving food scene with various restaurants offering traditional Finnish cuisine and international flavours. Take the opportunity to try some Finnish delicacies such as salmon, reindeer, and traditional rye bread. The city also has a vibrant street food culture, with food trucks and markets offering diverse culinary experiences. Don’t forget to visit the Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli) to taste local produce and traditional Finnish treats.
Helsinki is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike paths and bike rental services. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. You can ride along the waterfront, visit the parks, and discover hidden gems in different neighbourhoods. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to experience Helsinki’s beauty and charm.
Helsinki is known for its vibrant music scene, and during the summer, the city hosts several music festivals catering to different genres and tastes. Flow Festival, held in August, is a popular event featuring a diverse lineup of international and local artists. Tuska Open Air Metal Festival, held in June, is a must-visit for metal music enthusiasts. Other notable festivals include the Helsinki Jazz Festival and Helsinki Festival, which offer various musical performances in multiple venues across the city.
Check the event calendars and book tickets to secure your spot at these popular festivals and concerts.
In conclusion, Helsinki offers many activities and attractions to make your summer visit memorable. The city has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and cultural experiences to vibrant nightlife and delicious food. Enjoy the Finnish capital’s unique blend of nature, culture, and urban charm as you explore its many treasures.
VALO Hotel & Work is a conveniently located hotel with good transport connections, allowing you to easily access the best summer activities by car and HSL public transportation.
At VALO, you will find 422 cosy hotel rooms, a stunning wellness area with two traditional log saunas, and Helsinki’s most stylish rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy breathtaking city views and live music during the summer.
CAMPAIGN PERIOD 28.3 - 1.4.2024
Spend a lovely and care-free Easter holiday at VALO Hotel Helsinki. We are now offering special rates for the whole Easter week: two Spend a relaxing Easter week at VALO Hotel & Work Helsinki, with special rates. Book your hotel nights soon!
