Flights to Helsinki

From the airport

The I and P trains run in both directions around a loop between the airport and Helsinki Central Station, and either one gets you into town in about half an hour. You need a zone ABC ticket, bought from machines or the HSL app. Buses and taxis are also available, and many hotels are within walking distance of the station.

Squares, churches and markets

Senate Square is framed by the white Helsinki Cathedral and buildings from the era of Russian rule. A short walk away, the red-brick Uspenski Cathedral is one of the largest Orthodox churches in western Europe. The Market Square and Old Market Hall by the harbour sell salmon, berries and crafts. The Temppeliaukio Church is carved into solid rock, and the Oodi library is a striking modern landmark.

Islands, design and saunas

A ferry from Market Square takes about 15 minutes to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress spread across several islands, and the HSL ticket covers it. The Design District has studios and shops around Esplanadi park. Löyly and the Allas Sea Pool let you combine a sauna with a dip in the Baltic, even in winter. Ateneum and Kiasma are the main art museums.

When to plan your visit

Summer has long light evenings, outdoor cafés and island trips. Winter is cold and dark, but Christmas markets and frozen seas add atmosphere, and Helsinki makes a good stopover on the way to Lapland. Spring and autumn are quieter, with lower hotel prices. May Day, or Vappu, sees students in white caps celebrating in the parks, and Helsinki Day in June brings free concerts. Restaurants often offer good-value set lunches on weekdays, which helps in a city where eating out can be expensive.

Want a few days in Helsinki before Lapland? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll plan your connections.