Top Attractions in Helsinki

The harborside city of Helsinki is a great place to visit for a quick getaway, particularly if you're already in Eastern Europe. Many visitors come to Helsinki from Tallinn, taking the short 2-hour ferry ride which costs around $30 for a one-way ticket. There are several ferry companies that operate the Tallinn-Helsinki crossing several times a day, including Viking Line, Tallink Silja Line, and Eckero Line. I don't recommend spending more than a few days in Helsinki as many of the main sites can be visited within this time frame and the prices are high compared to other nearby countries. In fact, many Finns will take the ferry over to Tallinn for a night a partying in order to save money. While I originally planned to take the ferry, unexpected large waves and strong winds cancelled the crossing that I had booked, so I ended up taking a last-minute flight. After spending 3 days in Helsinki, here were several of my favorite attractions.

Helsinki Senate Square - This famous square represents the oldest part of Helsinki and showcases the work of German architect Carl Ludvig Engel. Surrounding the square is the Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, Sederholm House, and part of the University of Helsinki. The Government Palace includes the office of the Prime Minister of Finland. In the middle of the square is a Statue of Emperor Alexander II, which commemorates his efforts to initiate reforms that helped increase Finland's autonomy from Russia. To this day, the statue serves as a reminder of Finland's close relationship with Imperial Russia.

Helsinki Cathedral - Rising above Helsinki Senate Square is one of Carl Ludvig Engel's finest architectural accomplishments, although it was completed shortly after his death in 1852. The top of the steps provide great viewpoints of the rest of the city.

Old Market Hall - This recently renovated indoor market place is the oldest market in Helsinki, serving customers since 1889. Numerous vendors operate stands selling different types of fish, cheese, vegetables, fruits, pastries, and other Finnish delicacies! It's a major attraction for tourists and locals alike, particularly in the summer months. Located right along the harbor and beside Helsinki Market Square, it's open Monday through Saturday from 8am to 6pm.

Helsinki Market Square - Also known as Kauppatori in Finnish, this market square is highly popular with tourists, with vendors selling Finnish treats, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Some of the stands - particularly the outdoor cafes - have heated tents to keep customers warm when the temperature drops.

Fortress of Suomenlinna - Translating to "Castle of Finland," this UNESCO World Heritage site is easily accessible by ferry from Helsinki Market Square. The fortress consists of several islands that are connected by bridges. Visitors can roam around the different islands checking out the cannons, tunnels, dockyard, and museums. There are also several local restaurants and brewery. Notably, about 850 people continue to reside permanently on Suomenlinna. Ferry tickets are sold at Helsinki Market Square from a stand operated by the Helsinki Region Transport Authority. This ferry service operates year-round, departing several times an hour for 5 euros roundtrip.