A World-Renownd Design Capital - Helsinki, Finland

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Helsinki, but what I found was a city that whispers rather than shouts—and somehow says more because of it.

Compact, clean, and calm, Helsinki feels like a place where everything works—public transit runs smoothly (and mostly on the honor system), locals are friendly in their quiet way, and there’s a certain unhurried confidence in the air.

The first thing I noticed was saunas are everywhere. With over 3 million of them in the country, it’s not just tradition—it’s a way of life. People use saunas to relax, detox, and socialize. Some even give birth in them (yes, really).

Helsinki is a place of beautiful contrasts: sleek modern architecture beside historical buildings, design shops next to vintage stores, and cafés that take their coffee culture very seriously (no surprise—Finns drink more coffee per capita than anyone in the world).

And while Helsinki might not shout for your attention like some capitals, it rewards you for paying attention. Whether you're watching the sun barely set during Midnight Sun season, or catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights in winter, there’s always a little magic just beneath the surface.

Interestingly, Finland has never had its own native monarchy. For much of its history, it was ruled by foreign powers—Sweden for over 600 years, and then Russia as a Grand Duchy from 1809 to 1917, until it finally gained independence.

All in all, Helsinki is a refreshing blend of Nordic calm, modern design, Baltic Sea breezes, and a touch of quirky cool. Unlike bigger capitals, Helsinki doesn’t hustle—it hums.

This is what caught my eye - I hope you enjoy!

The spiral staircase in the Original Sokos Hotel.

The interior of the Helsinki Central Station, designed by Eliel Saarinen.

Along Bulevardi Helsinki

The statue of the Finland-Swedish author John Ludvig Runeberg designed and sculpted by his son Walter. At the base of the sculpture is a young woman symbolizing Maiden of Finland. The statue is located in the Esplandi Park.

The main building of the University of Helsinki, the oldest and largest academic institution in Finland, established in 1640.

The floating Allas Sea Pool & Sauna Complex, located near Market Square, offers a unique blend of saunas, spa areas, freshwater pools and filtered seawater pools.

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Lonely Planet Pocket Helsinki (Pocket Guide)

By Hotti, Paula

Tom of Finland

By Taschen Publishing, Benedikt Taschen Verlag

Finnish Culture Through Architecture: A Trio of Postmodern Structures offer Reasons to Visit Helsinki

By Casaleggio, C

Opened in December 2018, the Oodi Library has flawless lines and a futuristic design. It is much more than just a library, it’s also a community center and place to meet up and socialize. The library offers oversized and 3-D printers, recording and photography studios, meeting and workspace, gaming rooms and children’s play area as well as the usual books, films, and magazines

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Havis Amanda, the bronze sculpture by Ville Vallgren unveiled in 1908, depicts a mermaid rising from the sea, symbolizing Helsinki’s rebirth—portraying the city as emerging modern and cosmopolitan from the surrounding Baltic Sea.

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Moomin are considered a national treasure and a cultural staple in Finland because Tove Jansson’s stories deeply reflect Finish culture and values.

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The historic Old Market Hall has been serving customers since 1889.

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The Neo-classical Helsinki Cathedral in the city’s historical center.

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Stockmann Department Store was founded in 1862.

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The Espa Stage is a prominent outdoor performance venue located in Esplanade Park in the heart of the city.

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Temppeliaukio Church, also called Rock Church, is built directly into solid rock and opened in 1969.

Unfortunately, when we visited the church there was a private service going on so we were not able to enter.

The large fiberglass sculpture ‘Seagull’ by Villu Jaanisoo is located over the entrance to the HAM (Helsinki Art Museum). The seagull symbolizes Helsinki’s maritime environment.

Both the Finnish National Theater and the National Opera moved to this building in 1918, leading to its old nickname the ‘Old Opera House’

Old-world inspired charm of Art Nouveau in the Eira district.

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The Kallio district is known for its bohemian atmosphere and eclectic mix of thrift shops and vintage boutiques.

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The Old Customs House was built around 1900 and designed by Gustaf Nostrum and is a significant example of National Romantic Style.

Jerky made from wild game

The House of Nobility, opened in 1857, represents 145 living families of Finnish nobility, including 3 counts and 26 barons.

On a hilltop overlooking the city is the Eastern Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral.

The Tom of Finland Memorial Plaque commemorates the life and work of Touko Laaksonen. It was placed in the wall of henhouse at Tehtaankatu 7, where he lived for many years.

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The Art Nouveau Helsinki Central Railway Station completed in 1919.

Two of the statues called ‘Lantern Carriers’ on the facade of the station building.

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What you should know:

• Credit/debit cards are widely accepted.

• Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) are very common.

• Locals are generally friendly but reserved – polite and helpful.

• There is a Helsinki City card which can save on public transportation.

• The two main official languages are Finnish and Swedish, but many people do speak English.

• The currency is the Euro (EU).

• Parking can sometime be difficult at times in certain neighborhoods.

• Walking or biking is a great way to get around the city.

• You will need a valid passport and a power convertor if you are coming from the US.

• There are many restaurant and food options.

• Tipping is not expected but some people do round up.

For more information: Helsinki, Finland

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