Introduction To Helsinki
The capital of Finland Helsinki is unlike any other capital in the world – where else in the world you have a metropolis that is surrounded by an archipelago? A busy port (with a number of ferries going to Tallinn and Stockholm) and with population with just over half a million (excluding the neighboring municipalities) Helsinki can be a wonderful starting point for further exploration of neighboring Scandinavian countries.
There is plenty to do and see in Helsinki – you can take a day trip to one of the small islands (like Suomenlinna or Seurasaari), explore one of the many museums (like Design Museum or Helsinki City Museum), admire one of the more unusual churches (such as Church in the Rock – yes that does mean it is literally in the rock) or take of your shoes and rest your feet in one of the gorgeous Helsinki parks.
If you are a night bird there are plenty of bars and nightclubs to choose from (if your budget can take the strain). Bare in mind winters are pretty harsh and usually last from October until April so if you would like to see Helsinki in full bloom summer is your best option.
Articles - Helsinki
Dining and Drinking on a Budget in HelsinkiThere’s a reason that Finnish cuisine isn’t exactly known around the world. Dining out is a relatively new concept in Finland, and one that has only really hit its stride in the last decade or so. The food in Finland was developed out of need, using what the people could cull from the sea and from the cold climate of the country. Even now, food is prepared with relatively little flourish and few herbs and spices. People in Finland tend to eat early and many restaurants close by 10:00pm. Popular... [Read the full story]
Our Expert Review of Hotels in Helsinki, FinlandSokos Hotel Albert Cheapness Factor: $$ Sokos Hotel Albert can be found at Albertinkatu 30. Offering very central location Sokos Hotel Albert might be a perfect option for first time visitors to Helsinki who want to take in as many sights as possible. Rooms albeit small and basic are clean and new (hotel opened in 2007) while the breakfast is plentiful so you can fill your stomach before you head out sightseeing. The views are not spectacular but since this is downtown it is only to be expected.... [Read the full story]
When in Finland, Try Some CrayfishCryafish are a celebrated delicacy in FInland. Each year crayfish parties are held in August or September to celebrate the end of summer. The relaxed atmosphere at these dinners is made all the merrier by drinking songs and schnapps. How to eat crayfish: This is a truly casual affair. Only a small portion of the body of a crayfish is edible, so sucking and slurping is encouraged to fully enjoy the tasty meat and juices found inside the crayfish. You can eat with bare hands with only the help of only... [Read the full story]
Inexpensive Adventures In Helsinki, FinlandSituated on the south coast of Finland, the city of Helsinki is considered to be the economic center of the area with thousands of visitors traveling to the area each year. The beauty of the city is breathtaking, but the entertainment options that are available in the city are the reasons the visitors keep returning year after year. A holiday in Helsinki does not have to be expensive, as there are many things available to do that do not cost a lot of money. Many visitors to Helsinki choose to visit... [Read the full story]
