Helsinki Finland 3 Day Itinerary

July 13, 2024

3-Day Helsinki Itinerary: A Mix of History, Culture & Fun

This itinerary balances historical sights with modern experiences and delicious Finnish food.

Where to Stay:

Budget: Hostel Suomenlinna (located near the historic Suomenlinna Fortress) or Hotel Arthur (stylish hotel in a renovated former prison).
Mid-Range: Scandic Hotel Simonkenttä offers a central location and modern amenities.
Luxury: Hotel Kämp, located in the heart of Helsinki, is known for its elegance and historical significance.

Things to Know:

Currency: The currency in Finland is the Euro (€).
Language: Finnish is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and in tourist areas.
Weather: Be prepared for all types of weather! Helsinki has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are short but beautiful, while winters are cold and snowy. Pack accordingly (layers, waterproof outerwear, warm socks & hats).
Helsinki Card: Consider purchasing the Helsinki Card for free public transport, museum entry, and discounts on various attractions and activities.

Day 1: Historic Helsinki

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the ferry from the Market Square (Kauppatori) and explore the tunnels, museums, and stunning views of this historic landmark.
Afternoon: Dive into the heart of Helsinki’s history with a tour of the Helsinki Cathedral and its impressive neoclassical architecture. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Finnish lunch at Ravintola Kuurna, known for its delicious seasonal dishes.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Savoy, a beautiful Art Deco restaurant serving exquisite Finnish cuisine.

Things to Do:

Explore the Suomenlinna Fortress:
- Take advantage of the Helsinki Card: This offers free entry and transportation on the island.
- Visit the Suomenlinna Museum: Learn about the history of the fortress and the islands through interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
- Wander through the fortress grounds: Discover fortifications, tunnels, museums, and explore the historic fortifications.
- Enjoy a sauna experience: Many hotels in Helsinki offer access to saunas for guests.

Day 2: Design & Culture

Morning: Wander through the Design District, browsing the boutiques and design studios of this vibrant area.
Afternoon: Visit the Helsinki Museum of Art and Design (Designmuseo), home to a diverse collection of Finnish art and design from various periods.

Evening:

Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna experience at Löyly. This popular public sauna offers stunning views and modern, yet cozy, facilities.
Explore the Helsinki Market Square:

Things to Do:

Visit Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church) for a unique concert:
- Check the Helsinki Cathedral website for upcoming events or concerts.
Enjoy a traditional Finnish meal at a local restaurant: Many locals recommend Ravintola Nokka, known for its focus on sustainability and modern Finnish cuisine.

Day 3: Markets & Nature

Visit the Hakaniemi Market Hall (Hakaniemen Kauppahalli) to try fresh Finnish delicacies like Karelian pies or reindeer sausages from local vendors.
Enjoy a ferry ride to the nearby islands: Take a boat trip and explore the beautiful archipelago surrounding Helsinki.
Evening: Relax in the sauna at Suomenlinna Fortress and enjoy the view of the city skyline.

Things to Do (cont.):

Visit the Market Square:

Travel & Transport:

Helsinki is a very walkable city, with many attractions located within the city center.
The Helsinki Card allows for free public transportation on the Helsinki City Transport system, including buses, trams, and the metro.

Transportation options:

Public Transportation: Efficient and affordable, with an extensive network of buses, trams, trains, and ferries.
Bike Sharing: Helsinki has a great bike sharing program (e.g., HSL Bike) for getting around.
Walking & Cycling Tours: Explore the city at your own pace or join a guided tour to learn about its history, culture, and hidden gems.

Evening:

Enjoy a sauna experience at one of Helsinki’s many public saunas.

Other things to do in Helsinki:

Visit the Temppeliaukio Rock Church for a unique concert:
Experience the magic of music within a stunning subterranean setting.
Explore the Suomenlinna Fortress (again): There are different parts of the fortress to see, including the old church and the historical tunnels.
Discover the vibrant food scene in the Kallio neighborhood with its diverse restaurant options.
Visit the Helsinki Market Square for a delicious meal and local treats.

Day 1:

Morning:
- Take a walk through the historic Suomenlinna Fortress: Enjoy the fresh air and explore the fortifications, museums, and stunning views of the city.
Afternoon: Explore the picturesque Suomenlinna Island, take a ferry ride and soak in the history and atmosphere.
Enjoy the unique experience of swimming in a pool with a view of the Helsinki skyline
Take a stroll through the Esplanadi Park: Located near the Market Square, it offers a beautiful escape from the bustling city and features charming cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Explore the National Museum of Finland: Discover the history and culture of Finland through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Day 2:

Visit the Helsinki Cathedral: A beautiful landmark with a rich history.
Enjoy a traditional sauna experience at one of the many public saunas in Helsinki: Experience the traditional Finnish ritual of cleansing and relaxation.
Take a swim in the Suomenlinna public baths: Many locals recommend it as a great way to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Possible Helsinki Cathedral Activities:

Attend a church service: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the hymns.
Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna at a sauna restaurant:

Tips for your trip:

Purchase the Helsinki Card for discounts and free public transportation.
Try some local delicacies, like smoked salmon, karelian pies (karjalanpiirakat), and cinnamon buns (korvapuusti).
Enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the fortress:
You can climb to the top for stunning views of Helsinki harbor and the surrounding islands.

Enjoy a sauna experience at your own pace:

Visit the Suomenlinna restaurant, which offers delicious Finnish food and, of course, saunas!
Explore the city’s public sauna culture: Enjoy traditional Finnish experiences like taking a dip in the sea after a sauna session.
Take a ferry ride to a nearby island for a change of pace and scenery.
Enjoy the local design scene:

Day 3:

Visit the Design Museum, which is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building.
Explore the unique design experiences at the Helsinki Design Week. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and explore the many events and exhibitions held throughout the city.

For the sauna experience:

Visit Helsingin Sauna Klubi, a traditional Finnish smoke sauna located on the mainland.
Enjoy a relaxing day by the sea, swimming in the Baltic, picnicking, or enjoying a beachside lunch.
Explore the Helsinki Sauna Society: Enjoy the unique tradition of swimming in the sea after a sauna** session.

Other things to consider:

Visit the Finnish Sauna Society: The “Helsingin Saunaseura” is a great place to start your experience with a sauna and learn about the Finnish sauna culture.
Enjoy the sauna at Löyly: This popular restaurant offers a traditional Finnish sauna experience, including a plunge pool and a terrace overlooking the sea.

Day 1:

Enjoy the sauna at the Helsinki Sauna Society, a unique cultural institution that celebrates the Finnish tradition of sauna bathing.

Day 2:

Enjoy a relaxing swim in the sauna’s plunge pool or enjoy a delicious, traditional Finnish sauna meal (yes, they exist!).
Buy a “sauna” for the evening: Enjoy the sauna at the Helsinki Sauna Society and take a dip in the sea afterwards.
Enjoy the sauna experience at the Sea Life Aquarium: Learn about the fascinating world of marine life while enjoying a relaxing evening in the sauna.

Day 3:

Enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna meal, such as salmon soup or reindeer stew, for a taste of local cuisine.
Enjoy the views of the sea from the island.

Enjoy the Helsinki Sauna Society’s unique approach to public saunas and enjoy the beautiful city views while relaxing.

Day 4:

Explore the city’s museums, like the National Museum of Finland, which showcases Finnish history, art, and culture.
Enjoy a traditional sauna experience at the Helsinki Sauna Society and learn about the history of this practice.

Enjoy a relaxing evening in the sauna after a long day exploring the museum and the city.

Remember:

Helsinki’s public saunas are often located near beaches and lakes.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of a Finnish sauna: Experience the traditional rituals like “vihta” (birch whisks) treatments and ice swimming at one of Helsinki’s popular public sauna restaurants.

Explore the history and culture of Finland:

The city is full of fascinating museums, such as the National Museum of Finland (which offers a variety of experiences), the Ateneum Art Museum (for a traditional sauna experience), or explore the Helsinki Market Square, a great place to enjoy the local food and crafts.

Enjoy a traditional Finnish dinner:

Try some local delicacies like reindeer stew, salmon soup, or a Finnish sauna experience.

Day 4:

Explore the history of Helsinki’s unique public sauna culture.
Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top of the Uspenski Cathedral:

The dome of the cathedral is open to the public and offers a breathtaking view of the harbor and surrounding islands.

Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Finnish archipelago:

Enjoy:

Enjoy the traditional Finnish experience of a sauna with a “savusauna” (traditional sauna)
Enjoy the beautiful scenery while enjoying a sauna session.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Helsinki’s public sauna culture.

Saunaing is a way of life in Finland:

Enjoy a relaxing sauna experience at one of the many public saunas around the country.

Purchase the Helsinki Card for free access to public transport and discounts on attractions: The card also provides access to a variety of sauna experiences, including traditional smoke saunas, modern saunas, and saunas with unique features like ice swimming or plunging into a cold pool after.

Remember:

Enjoy the sauna’s relaxing atmosphere: Take advantage of the breathtaking views while enjoying a traditional Finnish sauna experience.
Consider combining your sightseeing with a sauna session:

Many museums and restaurants offer stunning views, making it possible to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Enjoy a unique experience at a sauna in one of the many public facilities:

The Helsinki Cathedral, located on the waterfront, is a popular destination for tourists**.

Enjoy the unique ambiance and the history of saunas:

Learn about the traditional Finnish sauna culture and enjoy the unique experiences they offer.

Visiting Finland? Consider these travel tips:

Visit Helsinki’s public sauna restaurants like “Helsingin Löyly” or “Sauna Society” for a taste of local culture.
Enjoy a variety of sauna experiences, including traditional Finnish saunas and modern saunas with amenities
Visit the National Museum: Enjoy the unique ambiance and the history of saunas.

The Helsinki Card:

Provides discounts to many attractions and events,

including access to the public sauna on the island.

Enjoy a variety of cultural experiences, including traditional sauna rituals,

delicious Finnish cuisine, and the stunning beauty of the

country’s many lakes and the sea.

Consider combining your sauna experience with a visit to the city’s museums: Enjoy a relaxing time in a traditional Finnish sauna and learn about the unique Finnish design traditions.

Enjoy the best of Finnish experiences:

Experience the unique Finnish tradition: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of saunas.
Explore the world-renowned Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering stunning views of the island, restaurants, and the fortress itself.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Helsinki Market Square

with its bustling markets and cafes.

Enjoy a traditional sauna experience with a view of the sea.

Visit the Helsinki Cathedral: The island setting offers a unique perspective on this historical landmark.

Enjoy the history of the city: Explore the history of the fortress and the city’s past.

Enjoy a unique, traditional sauna experience: Enjoy the contrast between hot steam and cold water while enjoying a delicious meal. Enjoy the unique experience: Immerse yourself in the Finnish way of life,

enjoying the traditional sauna experience with a view.

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city by the sea.