Helsinki-2-day-itinerary

Helsinki Travel Itinerary (2 days)

Day 1:

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start your day at the Helsinki Central Market, a bustling marketplace filled with fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs. Try some traditional Finnish breakfast like karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties) or salmiakki (salty licorice).
  • 10:00 am: Visit the Helsinki Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko), a stunning Lutheran church with impressive architecture and beautiful views of the city.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 pm: Head to the Temppeliaukio Church, a unique church built into solid rock. Take a stroll in the surrounding park, which offers great views of the city.
  • 2:00 pm: Grab lunch at Lappi, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Finnish cuisine with a modern twist.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: Explore the Design District Helsinki, a trendy neighborhood filled with design shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visit the iconic Marimekko store for some Finnish design inspiration.
  • 8:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Ora, a restaurant serving innovative Nordic cuisine using local ingredients.

Day 2:

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island just off the coast of Helsinki. Take a ferry from Market Square to get there.
  • 11:30 am: Explore the Suomenlinna Museum, which showcases the history and significance of the sea fortress.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Have lunch at ** Café Chapman**, located in the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. Try their delicious soup or salad buffet.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Ateneum Art Museum, which features an impressive collection of Finnish art from the 19th century to modern times.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm: End your day with a stroll along the Esplanadi, a beautiful pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
  • 8:00 pm: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Zucchini, a cozy Italian restaurant with delicious pasta dishes.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Lilla Roberts: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Helsinki, offering comfortable rooms and a great breakfast buffet.
  • Hostel Diana Park: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, situated near the city center and with a beautiful park nearby.

Transportation:

  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport: Located about 17 km from the city center. Take the Finnair City Bus or a taxi to get to your accommodation.
  • Public Transportation: Helsinki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. Buy a Helsinki Region Travel Card for unlimited travel.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but most people speak English fluently.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Weather: Helsinki can be quite chilly, even in summer. Pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Safety: Helsinki is a very safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Tips:

  • Buy a Helsinki Card, which grants you free entry to many attractions and public transportation.
  • Try traditional Finnish cuisine, like karjalanpiirakka, salmiakki, or kalakukko (fish pie).
  • Explore the city’s many parks and green spaces, such as the Esplanadi or the Helsinki Central Park.

Other things of interest:

  • Market Square: A bustling marketplace with fresh produce, souvenirs, and street food.
  • Uspenski Cathedral: An impressive Orthodox church with beautiful architecture and stunning views.
  • Helsinki Zoo: Located on an island, offering a unique zoo experience with Finnish and exotic animals.

Enjoy your trip to Helsinki!