4 Ways to Get from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to City Centre

With a 30-minutes train ride connecting from Helsinki Airport to City Centre since 2015, it is easy and even more convenient to reach Helsinki downtown in a whizz. Here are 4 airport transfers to get from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to City Centre so that you would not spend the long stopover time sleeping in the airport.

For the second time in Finland with a 9-hours stopover in Helsinki Airport, and the cheapest airfare ever purchased for my regular European trips, I decided to take advantage of the layover in Helsinki for another time.

I benefitted from Finnair long stopover offer a few years ago with an unbelievable 7-days stopover in Helsinki from Singapore to Brussels without additional cost compared to the usual airfare purchased over the past few years. Be sure to include Helsinki as another destination under low or no cost travel.

Strict Security Customs Check at Airport Helsinki

With the fear of terrorism and overstayers, the security check at Helsinki airport is even stringent than before. The Customs officers asked EVERY passenger exiting out of the airport at 6 am on their intention in Finland and to show proof of return ticket or other documents.

What I witnessed in the past was random checks and screening was never done on every passenger. I had to admit that even though it took more time for clearance, I appreciated the stringent control because it made me feel safe in Finland. Kudos to the serious Finnish Customs Officers!

Helsinki Airport Wifi and Tourist Information

There is free wifi at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. Other than that, if you have a SIM card from one of these 28 European countries you can call and use the mobile data in Finland with no additional roaming charges. On top of that, pick up a Helsinki city map or other cities’ travel maps from the Tourist Information Counter located on the first floor of Terminal 2.

Helsinki city centre is 20 km from the airport. Taking public transport to reach downtown takes about 30 minutes by Airport Train, Finnair Bus, Airport Bus 600 or taxi. The only challenge is the Finnish language written on the board with no English translation when buying a train ticket. Hence, it is wise to know the most cost-effective transport to go from Helsinki Airport to City Centre without being stuck in a traffic jam.

Helsinki Public Transport System 2019: New HSL Zone Segregation

With effect from 27 April 2019, Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) implemented a new ticketing system using zone segregations. Passengers pay according to the zones and distance travelled. The good news is that the Single Trip ticket is slightly lower as compared to the past from the airport to downtown. You can use the Single Trip Ticket or Day Ticket for both the Helsinki Airport Train and Bus 600.

» HSL Zone Segregation

HSL Zones are segregated into A, B, C and D areas. Helsinki city is at Zone AB, and Helsinki Airport is at Zone C. So if you want to travel from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to downtown, you have to purchase the travel ticket for Zone ABC.

» Single Trip: From Helsinki Airport to City Centre

• Zone: Select ABC from the ticket machines or sales points.
• Ticket Cost: €4.10/trip (€6.00 from the bus driver)
• Children (7 to 17 years): 50% discount
• Valid: 90 minutes

» Day Ticket: Unlimited Transport Travel

If you want an HSL Day Ticket from 1 to 7 days of unlimited travel for Zone ABC, check out HSL ticket prices from the website ranging from €11 (1-day) to €44 (7-day).

1. By Helsinki Airport Bus 600

Helsinki Airport Bus 600, managed by HSL, will take you from the Helsinki Airport to City Centre in 40 to 50 minutes without changing buses. The ticket costs €6.00 if you pay directly to the bus driver, €4.40 if you purchase from the ticket machine or the HSL mobile app after download. Give exact or smaller amounts as the bus driver is NOT obliged to receive notes more than €20.

The bus stops for both arriving and departing buses are located in front of both Helsinki Airport Terminal ① and ② (Finnish Name: Lentoasema T1 and T2). In Helsinki city, you can stop at ④ Rautatientori Bus Stop right in front of the ⑤ Helsinki Railway Station. Refer to the Trunk Route for Bus 600 from Helsinki Airport to City Centre and the exact bus stop location on Google Maps.

2. By Helsinki Airport Train

Since July 2015, the fastest and most convenient option is the Helsinki Airport train line that goes directly to the city centre in 30 minutes, also operated by HSL. By taking the train to Helsinki city, tourists do not have to worry about the traffic jam on the road by especially when going to the airport.

I opted to take a train to and fro Helsinki city centre during my 9-hrs layover trip to Finland for this round. For my first travel to Helsinki some time ago, I took Finnair City Bus before the Airport Train even existed.

Do note that some ticket machines accept only bank/credit cards and no cash, especially those found on the airport train platform. If you want to pay by cash, you have to look for the ticket machine which accepts it at Terminal 2 or those located along with the Tourist Information Counter.

» Where is Helsinki Airport Train Station?

The ③ Helsinki Airport Train Station is located at the end of Terminal 2 or upon seeing a signboard which states “Railway Station”. Along the 200 metres walk, you can see some ticket machines.

Helsinki Railway Station located at the end of Helsinki Airport Terminal 2

» Ticket Machine Available at Underground Train Platform

Likewise, there are similar ticket machines on the underground train platform where I had bought my ticket. There is an English option on it.

Helsinki Airport Train Station Underground Ticket Machine

» Two Types of Trains – I & P Train

There are two types of trains (I & P) that run from the airport to the Helsinki Central Station (Helsingin Päärautatieasema) in a Ring Rail Line. The difference is that both trains run in the opposite direction (westward and eastward) towards the south to Helsinki and vice versa.

The good news is that you do not have to be concerned about which train to take because they will reach your destination all the same with a mere difference of 5 minutes arrival time. In short, just hop onto any train that arrives at the airport. The screen on the train platform will reflect Helsinki Helsingfors which confirms the journey towards Helsinki downtown.

» Helsinki Train and Charging Station

The interior of the train is new, clean and attractive. What I appreciate most about the train is that every seat has two 230V charging stations which gives me a chance to charge my mobile while taking the 30-minutes ride to Helsinki city.

€5 one-way ticket was the old price in 2017

3. By Finnair City Bus

Finnair City Bus operated by Pohjolan Liikenne is an express shuttle bus service that leaves the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport every 20 minutes from the Finnair bus stop outside Terminal 2. A single trip ticket costs €6.80 whereas a round-trip ticket is €12.60 if you purchase it online.

Alternatively, you can pay the exact amount in cash €6.90 directly to the bus driver. 6 to 16 years old pay half price and children under 6 are free. Many credit cards are accepted on the bus too.

Online Single Trip e-ticket has a flexibility that allows a user to travel within 6 months from the date of purchase. Customers receive a link after an online purchase which they can either print out the e-ticket or show it on their phone screen. 10 and 30 trip multi-journey tickets are also available for frequent travellers with a validity of 180 and 365 days respectively.

I had used the Finnair City Bus service as an airport transfer in 2013 before the Helsinki Train was in service then. The Finnair Bus has a free wireless internet connection onboard. The ride was comfortable and reliable throughout my journey to Helsinki Airport. In case you are wondering, you cannot use the HSL ticket for Finnair City Bus as they are two different companies.

» How to Buy an Online Ticket for Finnair City Bus?

Click on the link. Select departure from Helsinki Airport T2 and choose the arrival point as Eliel Square City Centre. It stops at the ⑥ Finnair City Bus Station at Elielsquare as shown below.

Finnair City Bus operated by Pohjolan Liikenne

4. By Airport Taxi

There is an Airport Taxi counter in Terminal 2 where you can call a cab or ask some questions. The taxi from Helsinki Airport to City would cost between €40 to €55. Taking a cab is perfect for those who landed at the airport at night when there is no more public transport, those with small children or have many suitcases.

Of course, there are always some who do not want to bother too much about how to go about using public transport or perhaps, they are getting company reimbursements for their business trip expenses. Hence, taking a cab seems to be a hassle-free option to take you directly to your destination. Simply book a private transfer online ☟ which is easy and costs almost the same as that of a cab.

Helsinki Railway Station Train to Airport Timetable

When returning back to the airport from ⑤ Helsinki Central Railway Station (Helsingin Päärautatieasema), look for the train timetable board below for the text “Flygplatsen Airport” or “Lentoasema” which means “Airport”. The text comes together with a plane symbol too. There will be a few trains going back to the airport at different timings and platforms. When in doubt, always ask a local there before you board the train.

Beautiful Railway Station Title

The Helsinki Train Station should be another point of interest even if one is not taking a train. Inaugurated in 1919, BBC chose it as one of the world’s most beautiful railway stations in 2013. Apart from the acclaimed Antwerp Central Station rated by Mashable as being the most beautiful railway station from around the world, Helsinki Central Station earns its due recognition and is well-deserved for the title.

» The Most Expensive Toilet Ever

Although voted as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, the Helsinki Central Station toilet was the most expensive I have ever paid in my life. It cost €1 per entry! When I walked out of the station to begin my Helsinki tour for the day, I saw a FREE public toilet outside.

So, if you have to answer the call of nature, use the free one outside. I had used the same type of toilet a few hours later along the way. It was safe, reliable, and had decent hygiene standards.

The Most Expensive Toilet Ever! €1 Entry @ Helsinki Train Station

Free Public Toilet outside Helsinki Train Station

Hop-On Hop-Off Helsinki Bus Tour

If you prefer a more leisure trip for a layover in Helsinki city, the Hop-On Hop-Off Helsinki Tour departs every 20 minutes to 20 tourist attractions on a double-decker bus. The tour bus will bring you on a sightseeing trip to the most popular travel destinations in Helsinki city. The bus has audio guides in 10 languages and is equipped with wifi connection. For €30, you can hop on and off to any stops in 24 hours.

» List of Hop-On Hop-Off Stops

1. 1. Senate Square
   2. Havis Amanda
   3. Olympia Terminal / Mannerheim Museum
   4. Kaivopuisto Park
   5. Compass Square
   6. Eira
   7. Hernesaari Cruise Terminal (for cruise ships)
   8. Hernesaari Seaside
   9. Melkki Cruise Terminal (for cruise ships)
   10. Hietalahti Flea Market / Market Hall
   11. Bulevardi
   12. Kamppi Shopping Centre / Tennis Palace @ Helsinki Art Museum
   13. Rock Church
   14. Sibelius Monument
   15. Olympic Stadium
   16. Sea Life / Linnanmäki
   17. Parliament / National Museum
   18. City Centre / Lasipalatsi
   19. Swedish Theatre
   20. Esplanade / Market Square

Helsinki Card City / Helsinki Card Region

To get the maximum benefit, get either a Helsinki Card City or Helsinki Card Region from Stromma which costs between €49 to €79 for 1 to 3 days. Ferry and entrance to Fortress of Suomenlinna and a lot more Helsinki attractions are free for both passes. You can discount on some other places too.

Both types of cards also act as travel cards allowing unlimited travel across all transport networks in Helsinki for the duration of your pass. You do not have to worry about spare change for your daily transport tickets. Consider getting one of these travel cards.

• Buses
• Trams
• Metro
• Local Trains
• Suomenlinna Ferry

In the next article, follow me on 20 Things to Do in Helsinki » DIY Sightseeing + Top Attractions or if you like to visit some Helsinki Museums. As Helsinki is a compact city, you can see many points of interest just by foot according to the number sequence in my customised Google Maps.

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WHAT TO DO IN HELSINKI

Top Helsinki Attractions and Must-See Sightseeing Places by Walking So You Know What to Do in Helsinki

1. Why Visit Helsinki Finland?
2. 3 Quick Facts about Finland at the Top of the World
3. Google Maps – Helsinki Attractions and Sightseeing
4. 20 Top Things to do in Helsinki City Centre

What to Do in Helsinki: 20 DIY Attractions and Sightseeing by Foot

There are so many Helsinki attractions and many things to do in Helsinki that make it one of the most desirable capitals to visit in the 5 Nordic sovereign countries. What I like about Helsinki is that it is a compact city in Northern Europe. Many points of interest are so close to one another. You can see many Helsinki attractions just by foot, aiming for a budget DIY walking tour. If you are looking to visit any of the museums in Helsinki, please check out the link instead.

Why Visit Helsinki Finland?

The Finnish city, Helsinki is one of the recipients for receiving the accolade of being a ‘City of Design’ for its sustainable urban design among the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Helsinki takes pride to create its environment and infrastructure network to improve the standard of living.

With a strong influence from the Finnish, Swedish and Russian architectural designs in Helsinki which are evident in the historical monument preservation, one would appreciate how the unique blend of the three countries plays a part in shaping Helsinki tourism with renowned architectural designers.

What’s more, I have provided 20 Helsinki attractions and sightseeing points which I have visited most of them during my last two trips to Helsinki. If you have many hours of layover at Finland airport, do not waste your time hanging and sleeping at Helsinki Airport.

You may be interested:
» Read: 4 ways to get from Helsinki Airport to city centre in 30 minutes

3 Quick Facts about Finland at the Top of the World

Map Your Helsinki Travel

I have created the Helsinki City Google Maps itinerary for you in number sequence so that you can go to many locations on foot as the points of interest are near to one another. The quickest way to travel to Helsinki city centre by walking is to concentrate on either the western or eastern part of Helsinki. Alternatively, you can follow my Helsinki Attractions and Sightseeing List on Google Maps to refer to on your mobile.

Follow this list to show on your Google Maps ︎

1. Sea Life Helsinki

Sea Life Helsinki brings you closer to the marine creatures and exhibits them in an underwater tunnel where sharks and rays swim around you. Catch the largest zebra sea shark named Mussukka in action there. Visit an exhibition or catch the feeding time of these sea creatures.

It opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm and extended time during some of the days and closed on Christmas Eve and Day. Sea Life Helsinki tickets cost €16.50 for adults and those over 15 years old, and €13 aged between 3 to 14 years if you buy at the counters. You pay less when you purchase the tickets online at €15 and €12 respectively.

2. Linnanmäki Amusement Park

Credit: Zero / Flickr

Just a 3-minute walk from Sea Life Helsinki, visit the Linnanmäki Amusement Park built-in 1950. The endorsement is to support Finnish Child Welfare Work in a non-profit organisation. The Children’s Day Foundation maintaining and developing it has donated €4.5 million in 2018 to help children and families living in a less privileged environment.

The entry to Linnanmäki Amusement Park is free. It also offers 8 free rides. A standard wristband price for one day at €43 let you enjoy all Linnanmäki’s rides, observing the height and safety restrictions. The price is standard for all ages, regardless of whether you purchase it online or over the counter. Go and enjoy the fun in Linnanmäki for a good cause and help others.

3. Helsinki Olympic Stadium

Credit: Oskari Kettunen / Flickr

The Olympic event in 1940 was initially scheduled to take place in Tokyo but had to reschedule in Helsinki later due to the inability to wrap up the war. Helsinki Olympic Stadium was built in 1938 for the 1940 Summer Olympics when Japan forfeited the event during that year.

Unfortunately, due to the outbreak of World War II, the Olympic Games were cancelled. Finally, until 1952, Helsinki had the honour to hold the Summer Olympics for that year. Today, Helsinki Olympic Stadium still holds many sporting events and music concerts. The stadium is the largest in Finland and the best place for visitors to enjoy the scenic landscape of Helsinki.

The tower is 238.5 m in height and free for the public to view the city from the top. At the moment, the Helsinki Olympic Stadium and the Tower are closed for renovation until 2020. For such a prestigious historical event, mark Helsinki Olympic Stadium as one of the things to do in Helsinki in 2020 when it reopens.

4. Sibelius Monument @ Sibelius Park

Jean Sibelius Sculpture

In the Töölö district in Helsinki at the Sibelius Park stands more than 600 hollow steel pipes welded together that looked like a winged bird. Every steel bars of the Sibelius Monument have motifs on it. The monument named “Passio Musicae” made its first appearance in 1967 to commemorate a famous Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius.

The hollow steel pipes representing the organ pipes did not resonate well with the public after Elia Hiltunen, a Finnish artist won the competition, following the composer’s death in 1952. It was thought that the monument was too abstract. The commissioning set in after some time when an agreement that a figurative representation of Jean Sibelius would be included. Sibelius Monument is one of the most touristic attractions worth a visit!

5. The Rock Church Helsinki

~ Temppeliaukio Church ~

20 minutes away by foot from Sibelius Park is the marvellous Temppeliaukio Church. Also known as Rock Church Helsinki, it ought to be on your priority list of Helsinki attractions and the most incredible thing to do in Helsinki.

Never have I seen a church constructed in this manner – embedded right into the scabrous bedrock. On the outside is a dome-shaped cap built on rock. The entrance fee is €3 in cash or credit card. Expect a queue to visit this spectacular church.

The church hall has a dramatic theatrical and excellent acoustical effect as a lady was playing some instrument to entertain the visitors. The 24-metres dome ceiling plastered with copper tapes and skylight allows the church hall to receive sunlight penetration. The sheer beauty of Rock Church grand architecture and excellent sound effects are sought-after for church weddings and concerts.

6. Makasiinipuisto City Park

~ Makasiinipuisto ~

An impressive Makasiinipuisto City Park has a mazed-liked landscape beside the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, which is one of my favourite Helsinki attractions. There is a playground for children and next to it is a fenced area used for different types of ball games. Moreover, teenagers also use the corner of the park for skateboarding.

Additionally, the park has plenty of free-to-air lawns and various plantings to beautify the surroundings. Overall, the beautiful city park is positively a healthy environment for the city dwellers of all ages to use Makasiinipuisto as their leisure point. I had been there two times and was absolutely in love with the green layout.

7. Sanomatalo Building

3-minutes walk from Kiasma Museum is the Sanamatolo Building which is the largest News and Media company for Sanoma in Finland. Its newspaper, Helsingin Sanomat founded in 1889 is the largest newspaper publishing in Finland and the Nordic countries.

It is not exactly a Helsinki point of interest for tourist attractions. But yet, I would recommend you to go inside and have a look. I visited it two times just to witness the stupendous glass interior and its modern 20-metres lift design.

Sanamatolo building has a dramatic glass building equipped with infrared emitters to eliminate the problem of a cold draft and has a positive effect on the indoor climate. There is a restaurant which people can chill while admiring the impressive architecture of the building.

8. Kamppi Shopping Centre

A 5-minute mere walk from HAM Helsinki Art Museum is the Kamppi Shopping Centre. It is an entertainment complex comprising of 6 floors for dining, shopping and nightclubs. The hidden gem in Kamppi Shopping Centre lies in the basement towards the metro station where there are a lot of shops.

The underground area is very lively and bustling with people. Besides the Kamppi Shopping Centre are private residences with cool, protruding glass windows with an ultra-modern touch which personally, I like such architectural design very much. If you have more time to explore out of the city centre in the residential area, you will see more stunning glass buildings of a similar style.

9. Kamppi Chapel of Silence

Credit: Angelo Giordano / Pixabay

Just a stone’s throw beside Kamppi Shopping Centre stands a huge chunk of a wooden circular block that might occur to tourists just as a street decoration. I was fooled by it. On closer inspection was a door that leads to a chapel.

Yes, this is the Kamppi Chapel and a Helsinki attraction, also known as the Chapel of Silence for people to calm down after a hectic day. Moreover, it is not considered a place of worship as no religious ceremonies would take place here. As opposed to the intention, the “Chapel of Silence” is never silent with curious tourists coming in and out on a short interval.

Since the space of the chapel hall is rather small, a tourist would only need a minute to screen through the place if not staying for a purpose. Simplicity is a beauty and befits the wooden Kamppi Chapel well for everything inside including the chairs are made of wood in a uniform colour. Free entrance for Kamppi Chapel.

10. Forum Shopping Centre

Forum Shopping Centre Helsinki run by a Finland-Swedish organisation from 1985 is the only private-owned shopping mall at the heart of the city centre not far away from the Helsinki Railway Station. It won awards ‘Finnish Best Shopping Centre 2016’ and ‘Nordic Shopping Centre of the Year 2017’ with over 140 shops, restaurants and cafés. Forum Mall Helsinki opening hours start from 10 am daily and 12 pm on Sunday. You can shop till you drop dead until 9 pm during weekdays.

11.

Stockmann Helsinki Shopping Mall

Credit: Tapio Haaja / Unsplash

Stockmann Group is a Finnish listed company in the retail trade and is one of Europe’s largest department stores marked as a city’s central landmark since 1930. Well-connected to Forum Shopping Centre, Stockmann Helsinki has 13 floors inclusive of several basement levels that sells mainly high-end products.

The opening hours commence earlier than Forum Mall from Monday to Saturday at 9 am and on Sunday at 11 am. It closes at the same time as the Forum Shopping Centre.  It closes at the same time as the Forum Shopping Centre. If you like shopping, Stockmann Department Store is one of the most leisure things to do in Helsinki.

12. Aleksanterinkatu Shopping Street

Situated on the same street as Stockmann, Aleksanterinkatu is my favourite shopping street. It is vibrant and has an astonishing architectural building design. Known colloquially as “Aleksi”, it is also the longest city street planned by Carl Ludvig Engel during the 1800s. Aleksanterinkatu remains one of the best Helsinki attractions and sightseeing locations for locals and tourists to date.

During the weekend, only trams and emergency vehicles can pass through it by ensuring a safe and traffic-free environment for shopping in Helsinki. Following this stretch of the road towards the east, you will be able to discover more Helsinki attractions without getting lost. It is the most beautiful shopping street in Helsinki which you should see.

13. Senate Square Helsinki

~ Senaatintori ~

Credit: Timo Newton-Syms / Flickr

Continuing the path of Aleksanterinkatu street, you will see Senate Square Helsinki which is one of the places to visit. Several activities such as art exhibitions, concerts, snow building and snowboard events have been taking place in this square. Senate Square and its surrounding are the oldest part of Helsinki.

In front of the Helsinki Cathedral lies a broad flight of steps on the north side of the Senate Square. They are so steep that people approaching the square from the north frequently assume that they are approaching a cliff edge. Such a sensation arises when the steps do not become apparent until one is at the very top level. Sometimes, one can experience vertigo momentarily. Hence, locals call this point the ‘cliff-edge’ experience.

14. Helsinki Cathedral

~ Helsingin Tuomiokirkko ~

Credit: Kerttu / Pixabay

A remarkable white monument with five green dome ceilings that one can recognise from far is the Helsinki Cathedral. Originally known as St Nicholas’ Church before Finland’s independence in 1917, it was constructed from 1830 to 1852 in honour of the Grand Duke of Finland, Tsar Nicolas I of Russia.

Helsinki Cathedral in the neoclassical style is another brainchild of Carl Ludvig Engel who also planned the street of Aleksanterinkatu. The cathedral is still in service for religious worship and a popular venue for weddings.

︎ Lux Helsinki ⋙ In the coldest winter month of January, the annual Lux Helsinki light festival illuminates the street and some well-known monuments in stunning and magical colourful sights for 5 days. The event uses an array of light artwork to induce a spectacular background on the facades and outdoor places.

Visitors can admire the light installation from 5 pm to 10 pm nightly. It is surely an excellent place to visit in Helsinki in winter for some stunning photography shots. The event is something you should do in Helsinki in Winter. Lux Helsinki 2022 runs from 5 to 9 January.

15. Market Square Helsinki

~ Kauppatori ~

Can you see the bird flying past?

Located towards the South Harbour at one end of the Esplanade Park (Esplandi) is the Helsinki Market Square. It is a famous Finnish market hall identified with prominent orange tents for every stall. The best time to go to Market Square Helsinki is at the beginning of October where the Herring market will be held annually at the Market Square since 1743.

Over here, you can sample tasty Finnish food like reindeer meat, salmon soup and shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. The Helsinki Market Square operates from Monday to Saturday from 6.30 am to 6 pm. Usually, it does not open on Sunday. However, during the summer, the market runs from 10 am to 5 pm.

During Helsinki winter, there will be heaters inside the tent to ensure maximum comfort for the customers. As a form of tradition, there is a display of old American cars on the first Friday of every month. Mark the Market Square as one of the top things to do in Helsinki. Nonetheless, since it is a tourists’ spot, the prices may be on the high side.

16. Uspenski Cathedral

Credit: LarsLarsen

Crossing over to the Katajanokka peninsula district from Helsinki is the Uspenski Cathedral characterised by its brownish-red brick facade and contrasting 33-metres light green dome roof atop a hill. The Uspenski Cathedral is said to be the largest Orthodox Church in North and Western Europe.

The cathedral was built from 1862 to 1868 after the death of the Russian church architect, Aleksey Gornostayev. On the back of the Upenski Cathedral is a plaque in tribute to the Russian Emperor Alexander II, who was the ruler of the Grand Duchy of Finland during the cathedral’s construction.

A remnant of the Russian Empire in Finland, Uspenski Cathedral has a conspicuous high ceiling, impressive chandeliers and houses several valuable icons and treasures. There were theft cases of Icons and jewellery in the past. Fortunately, some were recovered.

The entrance is free and closed on Monday and during ceremonies. The opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9.30 am to 4 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm and Sunday from 12 to 3 pm.

17. Helsinki Skywheel and SkySauna

Credit: Anastasia Borisova / Pixabay

Also located in In the Katajanokka district and a 5-minute walk from Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki SkyWheel offers an opportunity to oversee the breathtaking city, nearby islands or the passing ships from a height of 40 metres in a Ferris wheel. A ride on the Skywheel costs €13 for adults and €9.50 for children.

A standard cabin can take up to 8 people and a VIP cabin with leather seats can fit 4 people. Skywheel introduces a new experience that you cannot find anywhere in the world! What is the favourite pastime of Finnish people?

Yes! Sauna! Original SkySauna is the latest luxury for pampering yourself in the sky with a tranquil sea view and a hot spring hot tub on the ground. SkySauna recommends it as an extraordinary atmosphere aside from the traditional sauna. Prices start from €240 per hour for 1 to 4 people. It opens seven days a week starting at 11 am. On Saturday, it starts at 10 am.

18. St. John’s Church Helsinki

~ Johanneksenkirkko ~

Credit: BeeFortyTwo

Credit: Ted McGrath / Flickr

Another neo-Gothic architectural style designed in Stockholm in 1891, St. John’s Church Helsinki is the largest Lutheran stone church in Finland with a 2,600 seating capacity. Also known as ‘Johannes Church’, it has noticeable twin spires from far and an incredible church hall design which is a reason to visit this Helsinki attraction.

The St. John’s Church also has excellent acoustics making it a prime choice for a wedding venue, special events and ceremonies. Johanneksenkirkko is open from Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm, on weekends when there are special functions.

19. Suomenlinna Fortress

Credit: Marjatta Caján / Pixabay

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a national highlight and part of the UNESCO World Heritage List too. The commencement work of the Suomenlinna fortress in 1748 was an initiation by the Swedish Parliament as a protection against Russian expansionism under the Swedish name ‘Sveaborg‘ (or ‘Viapori‘ in Finnish).

In May 1918, the fortress was renamed Suomenlinna (Castle of Finland) after Finland’s independence in 1917. To date, it is an emphasis on Helsinki tourism and attracts a lot of visitors.

How to Get to Suomenlinna? The maritime fortress is accessible by ferry service or a water bus service during the summer. During the cold winter, visitors can experience the trip in ice-covered water which is an unforgettable moment. Visiting the Sea Fortress is free but not the museums in Suomenlinna except Customs Museum which is available only in the summer.

20. Last Finnish Submarine Vesikko

One of the more remarkable attractions in Suomenlinna is the last Finnish submarine Vesikko. Launched in 1933, Vesikko was one of five submarines to serve in the Finnish Navy when Finland bought it in 1936. After the Finnish Winter and Continuation Wars from 1939 to 1944, Vesikko was the only Finnish submarine that survived the fate of being scrapped.

After much renovation, Vesikko was reopened to the public in July 1973 as an exhibit of the Military Museum in Suomenlinna. It preserves the memory of naval warfare globally. The ticket price is €7 and includes admission to the Military Museum.

You can also see Vesikko by taking a sightseeing cruise boat from Royal Line around the fortress without going to the Suomenlinna island. The sightseeing cruise ticket starts from €21.60 onwards for 1.5 hours (which is an increment from €12 for 45 minutes from the last time I went). You can also opt for their buffet lunch and dinner cruise. Take advantage of the leisure cruise trip to try out the Finnish food onboard.

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15 Helsinki Museums to Visit for Art, History or Exhibitions

This Helsinki Museums list is an extension on my previous post – 20 things to do in Helsinki. I have removed the Helsinki museums out from the post. Apart from the typical sightseeing, some people are only interested in visiting museums when they travel and have not much interest to do other things. Moreover, I have some friends who attest to this presumption.

As Helsinki is quite a compact city where you can visit many attractions by foot, most popular Helsinki museums are also within walking distance. On some days of the month, all Helsinki Museums have certain days with exceptional opening hours. You are advised to double-check first before visiting any of them.

1. Helsinki City Museum

~ Helsingin Kaupunginmuseo ~

Credit: Maija Astikainen / Helsinki City Museum

Helsinki City Museum is FREE entry and deserves to be the first on the list because it has another 3 more FREE museums in Helsinki out of four under its wing. If you want to know everything about the captivating capital of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum is the right place to visit. Walk the life and experiences in Helsinki with a collection of 450,000 objects and one million photographs through the historical transition of time.

The museum also has a children’s corner and interactive activities for kids. Therefore, it would be a lot of fun for the family. It also provides an incredible view for taking a picture of the Helsinki Cathedral. The Helsinki City Museum is at the end of the Aleksanterinkatu Shopping Street, situated in the oldest blocks of the city near the Senate Square.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: The only museum that is always free entry! Apart from Helsinki City Museum, the organisation has 4 more museums in Helsinki under its wing. Three of them are free entry.

• Tram Museum (Free)
• Burgher’s House Museum (Free)
• Worker Housing Museum (Free)
• Villa Hakasalmi (€12)

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: There are free and paid guided tours which you have to check on their website. Helsinki City Museum also has walking tours for 75 minutes, but not for free.

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

2. The National Museum of Finland

~ Kansallismuseo ~

Credit: pohjolanpoluilla / Flickr

• Reopen in Spring 2027 due to renovation and expansion of site

The National Museum of Finland in Helsinki is 10 minutes away from Rock Church. It is one of Finland’s most significant national-romantic works of architecture. The style was part of the National Romantic movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Its outstanding Nordic architectural design is often considered to be a form of Art Nouveau. The National Museum of Finland opened its door to the public in 1916. The renovation from 1997 to 2000 distinguished its latest architectural interior from the exterior built with granite façade and steatite decoration.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: €14 for adults and free for those under 18. Visitors may have to pay a separate fee for special exhibitions.

⦿ FREE ADMISSION: Every Friday 4 pm – 6 pm. Also free admission to the dates below:

• 18 May 2020: International Museum Day
• 12 Jun 2020: Helsinki Day

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: There are several free and paid guided tours in English and you may have to book in advance.

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

• 1 May to 31 August

• 1 September to 31 December

3. Helsinki Art Museum (HAM)

If you are a lover of visual art, you will appreciate the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM) which showcases over 9,000 art collection in modern and contemporary arts. The focus is on the everyday life of the Helsinkians. There are displays of almost half the works in public areas such as parks, streets, offices, health centres, schools and libraries. The remaining art collection is in Tennispalatsiin (Tennis Palace). HAM also offers free WiFi within its premises.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: €12 and free for those under 18

⦿ FREE ADMISSION: You can visit HAM for free on the last Friday of every month. There are also free admissions to the exhibitions on some days.

• 10 May 2020: Mother’s Day
• 18 May 2020: International Museum Day
• 12 Jun 2020: Helsinki Day
• 20 Aug 2020: Night of the Arts

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: On Saturdays in English for all ages

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

4. Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

~ Nykytaiteen Museo Kiasma ~

Kiasma Museum on the Right of Park

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is a wing of the Finnish National Gallery which educates the public on contemporary art. This five-level building introduces a new perspective on life and experiences through arts and events. The Kiasma Museum was designed by Steven Holl, an American Architect and opened to the public in 1998.

The building concept works based on the diffusion of light. There is WiFi access under “Kiasma Free” on top of stores and cafes inside the Kiasma Museum. Another noteworthy attraction beside the Kiasma Museum is the Makasiinipuisto City Park which has a landscape that looks like a magnified version of a jigsaw puzzle. It is undoubtedly one of my favourite Helsinki sightseeing points.

⦿ ADMISSION TICKET: €15 and free for those under 18

⦿ FREE ADMISSION: 1st Friday of every month

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: Available in 4 languages

• English: on 1st Saturday of each month at 2 pm
• Swedish: on 1st Saturday of each month at 1 pm
• Russian: on 1st Saturday of each month at 3 pm
• Finnish: every Friday at 6 pm

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

5. Ateneum Art Museum

Credit: Finnish National Gallery / Yehia Eweis

Ateneum Art Museum is perpendicular to the Helsinki Railway Station which one cannot miss. You can visit it immediately and save some time upon arrival from Helsinki Airport to the city. It is also under the umbrella of Finnish National Gallery featuring classical art painting predominantly by famous Finnish painters.

It has an accumulation of the largest and oldest art collection in Finland backdated to the 18th century to the present day. To date, it has more than 4,300 paintings and over 750 sculptures. Ateneum Art Museum was also the first museum in the world to own a Vincent van Gogh’s Street in Auvers-sur-Oise (1890) in 1903.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: €17 and free for those under 18

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: Free with the entrance fee or with a Museum Card. Duration is approximately one hour. Advance registration is not required.

• English: on Saturday on Even-numbered weeks at 12 pm
• Swedish: on 1st Sunday of the month at 1 pm
• Russian: on 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 pm
• Finnish: on Saturdays at 1 pm

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

6. Design Museum Helsinki

~ Designmuseo ~

Credit: Ralf Roletschek / Wikimedia Commons

Design Museum Helsinki with a neo-Gothic style is more than 140 years old. It is also one of the oldest museums in the world with a collection of over 75,000 objects, 45,000 drawings and 125,000 photographs. The original collection by the Finnish Society of Crafts and Design backdate to 1873. The Design Museum also exhibits its collection worldwide.

Before or after visiting the Helsinki museum, you can visit the well-known Market Square, which is 10 to 20 minutes walk from the harbour. The famous market is open daily from Monday to Saturday and on Sunday during the summer. An ideal combination of culture and food together to stimulate your mind and stomach.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: €12 for adult and €6 for students

⦿ FREE ADMISSION: Last Tuesday of every month from 5 pm to 8 pm

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: Available in 4 languages – English, Swedish, Swedish and Finnish. It is conducted once per month on specific dates for 3 languages except for Finnish which the guided tour is every Tuesday at 5 pm and Saturday at 4 pm.

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours + All Other Details

• 1 June to 31 August

• 1 September to 31 May

7. Suomenlinna Museum

Credit: Marjatta Caján / Pixabay

Last Finnish Submarine Vesikko

Suomenlinna Island is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site and its history of construction dated back in the mid-18th century when Finland was still part of Sweden. There are 6 museums in the historical island. Suomenlinna Museum, being the main one, is at the Suomenlinna Centre and opened throughout the year. A 25-minute short film available in 9 languages is screened at every half an hour interval in the auditorium.

The permanent exhibition showcasing its 260 years of history with relics discovered from the olden times demonstrated events encompassing the lives of people and the fortress. You have to take a 15-minute water transport to get to Suomenlinna. During the cold winter season, you can experience the journey through the ice-covered water. It is truly marvellous to spend a whole day museum hopping at Suomenlinna Island.

⦿ ADMISSION FEE: Here are the costs to all 6 museums on Suomenlinna island for adults, students and children between 7 to 17 years old. Free entry for those under 7 years old.

(Adults / Students / Children between 7 to 17 years)

• Suomenlinna Museum (€8 / €5 / €4)
• Ehrensvärd Museum (€5 / NA / €2)
• Military Museum’s Manege (€7 / €4 / €4)
• Submarine Vesikko (€7 / €4 / €4)
• Toy Museum (€7 / €5 / €3 / €17 – Family Ticket: 2 Adults + 2 to 4 Children)
• Customs Museum (Free – Available only during the summer period)

⦿ FREE ADMISSION: No entrance fee to visit the Suomenlinna Fortress

⦿ GUIDED TOUR: Guided tours are held weekly throughout the year in over 15 languages.

⦿ OPERATING HOURS » Exceptional Opening Hours

• 2 May to 30 September

• 1 October to 30 April

Conclusion

With so many choices of museums in Helsinki free or paid, there is definitely one that interest you. Check out my post on what to do in Helsinki and sightseeing attractions which you must not miss. Or perhaps, an article on the transport options to get from Helsinki Airport to City Centre.

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