Helsinki, Finland
Experience a slice of island life
Perched at the north-eastern edge of the Baltic, the ultra-cool Finnish capital has curiously mild climate, with particularly long summer days to enjoy – and plenty of coastline to explore. With graceful city streets and a vibrant mix of classical and modern architecture, it’s pleasing on the eye, too.
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Destination overview
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| Language: | Finnish | |
| Currency: | Euro | |
| Time zone: | GMT +2 hour (GMT +3 hours in summer) | |
| Flight Time: | 2h 50 | |
| Holiday type: | City break | |
| Weather: | Average maximum temperature: 4.5°C (24 hour average) Rainfall: 635.4 mm per year |
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Must see:
Visit the pristine (and enormous) Helsinki Cathedral – you’ll be drawn to it, we promise – and discover why this symbol has helped the place become known as The White City of the North.
Must eat at:
Take Tram 1 or 1A to Havis on Etelaranta for the best fine-dining seafood restaurant in town.
Must be there for:
Head to Hakaniemi Square on 6 December to celebrate Finland’s independence from Russia. Later, parades take place through the main streets.
Well-travelled tips:
Visit Sibelius Park to witness the 24 metric tonnes of metal and 600 pipes make up the awe-inspiring monument to Sibelius, one of Finland’s most renowned composers.
The Church in the Rock is one of the city’s most visited spots – and you’ll see why if you go. Hewn from solid rock, it’s a peaceful and remarkable place of worship.
Visa:
British citizens do not need a visa to visit Finland.
