Top Five Favorites in Helsinki

Helsinki Top Five

After living in Finland for three months, Helsinki has truly has become one of my favorite places in the world. It’s quaintness, for a big city, was  here are the top five things I recommend you do/eat/see while there.

#1: Things to See/Do

Marimekko

The Design District was one of my favorites to explore due to the great variety of boutiques, coffee shops, and museums. I would recommend you check out Marimekko, one of Finland’s uniquely beautiful clothing lines. Their patterns are one of a kind and make unique souvenirs for both yourself and your loved ones.

Museums

It’s a great area to take some pictures and visit the Helsinki City Museum which is free and open to the public, daily. I also personally enjoyed a latte and overnight oats at El Fant cafe, which is connected to the Helsinki City Museum. If you really love design and fashion, check out the Design Museum in the Design District. Most recently in Kamppi, Amos Rex opened. I wrote a blog post all about that amazing experience. I know that the exhibits I blogged about will change in February.

 

Senate Square

Located in the Design District, the Helsinki Cathedral is picturesque and a distinct landmark. This area is uniquely called Senate Square due to the Cathedral, government buildings, and university surrounding this space. You’ll find plenty of tour groups and tourists here, as well as restaurants with patios that look out into the square.

Sauna

This is an integral part of the Finland experience. If you want to truly be a Finn, you’ll sauna and then take a swim in an arctic pool. But how you really want to do it is up to you. Going to sauna is a way to bond in Finland. You should especially be flattered of you are invited to go. But if not, there are plenty of Saunas in Helsinki to look up and try out!

#3: Where to Eat

Speaking of restaurants, let’s dive right in! Truthfully one of my favorite parts of travelling is, you guessed it, eating. First of all, let me say that I have never had a bad meal while dining in Finland. I understand this is a huge blanket statement, and I don’t take that lightly. I’m purley stating (subjective) facts. I am a big foodie, and am pretty much willing to eat anything. This can be a challenge sometimes to narrow down a spot, so I came up with a concise list of places. I know it made my life so much easier, as every place we went to was seriously delicious, and I hope you’ll find the same.

Morning Coffee

If you’re looking for something easy and light, then either of these options will be great to visit. Truthfully, Finns love their coffee so no matter where you go you’ll be treated well. But these two were my favorites.

Kuuma

Located in the Punavuori neighborhood. It was very simple, and also had a small shop that it connected to with handmade goodies.

El Fant Coffee and Wine Bar

Aforementioned coffee shop, connected to the Helsinki City Museum in the Design District. Grab a coffee to go walk around the museum. Or post up after a long day of walking and enjoy some coffee, or wine, you choose!

Lunch/Dinner

Sushibar + Wine

Good sushi, great wine. This place was a great one to find, especially when you’re looking for a wide variety of sushi options.

Sandro

A mediterranean spot with small plates, and a lot of flavor. With dishes varying from all over the Mediterranean and some of the Middle East, it definitely hits the spot.

#4: Where to Drink

Ravintola Lönkka

I know that this place has some amazing food, from what I’ve seen come out of the kitchen. While I’ve never dined here, I have come here a few times for drinks and late night snack. They carry some really good Finnish beers, and have some great cocktails. The atmosphere is dark and cozy. Definitely a nice place to end your night.

Chapter

I was so happy to stumble upon Chapter, which is hidden in the Design District via an alley. Once you come upon it, its modern style and glass exterior is incredibly intriguing. If that isn’t enough, their cocktail menu is presented to you on customized playing cards. Organized by varying degrees of alcoholic potency, they offer 3 different drinks in 3 different categories: less potent, moderately potent, and extremely potent. And if you can’t decide, then you can pick the Joker card. In which case, the bartender will concoct something for you.

#5: Where to Stay

Airbnbs

When I travel, I prefer to stay in an Airbnb. It makes you feel more comfortable and less 'touristy' that way. It also makes it easy to pretend you are a local, for the time being, giving you a taste of what it might actually be like to live there. Plus, you get so much more space than a hotel room would give you. I love the hygge style of Scandinavia. 'Hygge' is all about making you feel at home, and enjoying the goodness of life. I have usually stayed in the Punavuori neighborhood of Helsinki. To me, it was quieter because it was not directly in the city center.

The Tram

Biking is definitely a great way to get around. If you’re not as savvy on the bike, using the tram is also a great way to travel. You can easily take the tram to find your way around the city. This came in handy for when I didn’t feel like trekking through the cold and rain.

Final Thoughts

Helsinki is one of those places that you never would think to go. And though I’m biased, I think that once you do go, you’re so happy you went. Hopefully, I’ve helped you enjoy it just the same.

Until next time... xo