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Looking for Flights to Helsinki?
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Hotels in Helsinki: Book Flights to Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, spans a total area of 276 square miles. Of this, approximately 82 square miles are land, while 0.50 square miles consist of inland waters. The remaining 194 square miles are sea, giving the city its unique coastal charm.
Located in southern Finland, along the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is the country’s political, economic, scientific, and cultural center. The official languages are Finnish and Swedish, but English is widely spoken. The currency used is the Euro, so you will need to exchange your US dollars before your trip.
Flights to Helsinki: Getting there
There are multiple ways to travel to Helsinki from the United States, with flights to Helsinki being the most convenient option. Several major airlines, including American Airlines and Delta, offer flights from cities like New York and Los Angeles. Most flights have at least one stop in a European hub, such as London or Amsterdam, but Finnair also provides direct flights from select US cities to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL).
Once you arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, located about 12 miles north of the city center, you can reach downtown Helsinki by train, bus, or taxi. The airport train, operated by HSL, takes around 30 minutes to reach Helsinki Central Station, while airport buses offer an alternative for those with more luggage. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but they are typically the most expensive option.
For travelers looking for a more adventurous route, it’s possible to combine Helsinki flights and sea travel by flying into Sweden or Estonia and taking a ferry to Helsinki. This option allows you to experience scenic Nordic waters while extending your trip with an extra destination.
How Long Should You Book Helsinki Hotels?
For a Helsinki vacation, we recommend staying at least two full days. If you’re driving and taking a ferry, factor in extra travel time. If you plan to explore nearby attractions, add at least one more day to your itinerary.
The best time for Helsinki vacations
Helsinki has a continental climate. The best time for Helsinki vacations is from June to August, when temperatures average around 20°C (68°F). However, August tends to be rainy. Avoid winter and early spring unless you enjoy cold weather, as temperatures can be quite low.
In June and July, Helsinki experiences extremely long daylight hours, with almost no darkness at night. A highlight of this season is the Midsummer Festival (Juhannus), celebrated on Seurasaari Island. This event, held on a Saturday between June 20 and 26, features bonfires, theatrical performances, and traditional dances.
Things to do in Helsinki
Helsinki offers a mix of shopping, culinary experiences, museums, and nightlife.
Shopping in Helsinki
For shopping enthusiasts, Esplanadi is a must-visit. This lively street is home to numerous boutiques, including stores from famous Finnish designers. Here, you’ll also find Stockmann, one of Finland’s most famous department stores.
Don’t miss the small side streets between Esplanadi and the train station, where you’ll find unique fashion, jewelry, and shoe stores.
Pirate tip: The Design District, near the Design Museum, features boutiques and galleries showcasing work from young Finnish designers.
Museums in Helsinki
Helsinki has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums worth visiting.
Finnish National Museum – Covers Finnish history from the Stone Age to modern times, with a focus on religious art from the Middle Ages to the Reformation.
Finnish National Gallery – Finland’s largest art museum, housing the Ateneum, Kiasma, and the Sinebrychoff Art Museum. The Ateneum features over 4,300 paintings and 750 sculptures, while Kiasma focuses on contemporary art.
Design Museum – A must-visit for design enthusiasts, showcasing Finnish design through exhibits and an extensive collection of photographs, objects, and drawings.
Dining in Helsinki
Helsinki’s culinary scene ranges from traditional Finnish dishes to international cuisine.
Finnish cuisine is based on fresh, seasonal ingredients like potatoes, root vegetables, berries, fish, and game meats like reindeer and elk. Traditional Finnish restaurants include Manala, Savotta, and Zetor.
For international flavors, Café Bar No 9 offers pasta, burgers, and wok dishes. If you have a sweet tooth, stop by Café Ekberg, a historic café known for its pastries and cakes.
Nightlife in Helsinki
Helsinki’s nightlife is vibrant, with bars and clubs conveniently located near each other. Here are some great options:
Navy Jerry’s – A 1950s-themed bar with a plush interior and maritime decor.
Liberty or Death – A cozy cocktail bar with vintage glassware and jazz music.
Ateljee Bar – Offers a stunning panoramic view of Helsinki while you enjoy cocktails.
Excursions in Helsinki
If you have extra time, take a day trip to Tallinn, Estonia. The city is only about 55 miles from Helsinki and can be reached by ferry in around two hours.
Tallinn’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and historic landmarks like Town Hall Square, which has been the heart of the city for over 800 years.
Must-see attractions in Helsinki
Suomenlinna Fortress – A UNESCO-listed sea fortress dating back to the 18th century, located on interconnected islands near the city.
Senate Square & Helsinki Cathedral – A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, designed by Carl Ludwig Engel in the 19th century.
Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church) – A unique church built directly into solid rock, showcasing 1960s Finnish architecture.
Old Market Hall – Opened in the late 19th century and now a historic landmark with over 100 stalls selling local delicacies like fish, cheese, and pastries.
Experience a Finnish sauna in Helsinki
No Helsinki vacation is complete without visiting a traditional Finnish sauna. Some of the best options include:
Kotiharjun Sauna – The last public wood-heated sauna in Helsinki.
Kaurilan Sauna – A 19th-century sauna with a cozy candle-lit atmosphere.
Let yourself be enchanted by the Nordic charm of Helsinki, and start planning your city trip today! Discover flights to Helsinki Finland and book Helsinki hotels today!
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