Helsinki

The wonderful surrounding countryside blends seamlessly with the hi-tech buildings, and old traditions live alongside the latest trends. There are many wonderful parks in the city and the forests on the outskirts are the ideal place for a peaceful and relaxing walk. The rhythm of life in Helsinki is both laid back and buzzing, and this is due in part to the number and quality of its restaurants and night clubs.

Most of Helsinki’s tourist attractions can easily be reached on foot from the city centre, but you can always rely on the excellent public transport system, which has been ranked one of the best in Europe.

 

 

Helsinki and its inhabitants have an immediate charm and personality - the people are open and uncomplicated. The trendy, relaxed atmosphere demonstrates how the city is open to new ideas and the latest trends. Helsinki is also a green city, close to the sea and surrounded by countryside. One third of the city is made up of parks and gardens. The wonderful unspoilt countryside around the capital offers unlimited opportunities for relaxation and healthy open-air activities. The city parks can be enjoyed by tourists and residents alike, and the woods of Central Park begin just outside the centre.

 

The historic center of Helsinki is a captivating blend of culture, history, and contemporary lifestyle that harmoniously come together. Characterized by an elegant fusion of neoclassical architecture and modern design, this charming neighborhood offers a fascinating journey through time.

 

At the heart of this area stands the majestic Helsinki Cathedral, an architectural icon with its imposing columns and white dome towering into the sky. The cobbled and narrow streets, flanked by historic buildings in pastel colors, lead to lively squares such as Senate Square (Senaatintori), surrounded by elegant government buildings.

 

 

The Market Square (Kauppatori) is another must-visit place, with its lively and colorful open-air market where you can purchase local products, souvenirs, and savor traditional Finnish delicacies.

Shopping streets like Aleksanterinkatu are adorned with stylish boutiques, cozy restaurants, and trendy cafes, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The proximity to the sea adds a touch of serenity, with the waterfront offering spectacular views and the opportunity to relax in one of the many cafes along the coast.

Finland has a harsh climate, which makes the cultivation of many products prohibitive. Butter and milk are of the highest quality and are preferred yogurt and viili (curdled milk with a gelatinous consistency). There are many types of bread, such as ruisleipä, prepared with rye flour or other grain flours. The beef is most consumed but also hare, reindeer, elk and balbresiki nikii, the characteristic Lappish boar. Famous are the grillimakkara, large wurst cooked in a flame and stuffed with mustard. Fruit and vegetables are imported with the exception of berries and in particular blueberries to prepare cakes and tart mustikkapiirakka. Very popular and used are the berries, such as lakka (camember or cloudberry) with a sour taste, ideal to prepare lakkalikööri (lakka liqueur) or for jams, ice cream and camomoro honey. Also loved by the Finns are salmiakki (salty liquorice) and Fazer Blue chocolate.

 

Text by Lisa Maria River

Avion Tourism Magazine
Photos: Sisterscom.com, Shutterstock / Depositphotos
Copyright © Sisterscom.com
Video: www.myhelsinki.fi

 

 

Helsinki is a welcoming city and offers different possibilities for accommodation.

To find the ideal hotel and the best offers you can do a search for the stars but also for districts or landmarks.

 

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