One Day in Helsinki Itinerary: The Best Things to See & Do
IN THIS GUIDE
Helsinki in 1 Day
How to Spend One Day in Helsinki
Best Places to Stay in Helsinki
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Welcome to the land of a thousand lakes, or perhaps more accurately, 188,000 lakes—Finland!
If you find yourself in the heart of this Nordic gem, there's no city quite like Helsinki to explore. Striking a delicate balance between bustling urban life and tranquil escapes, Helsinki is a modern, vibrant city steeped in historical elegance.
Whether you're a tourist short on time or a business traveler looking to make the most of a layover, this one-day in Helsinki itinerary will give you a taste of what the Finnish capital has to offer.
I moved to Helsinki in early 2023 and have spent the better part of a year crisscrossing its cobblestone streets, bustling markets, and idyllic archipelagos. Therefore, rest assured, the recommendations in this guide come from firsthand experience coupled with a touch of local insight.
So, without further ado, let's dive into how you can spend a day in Helsinki!
🏛️⚖️🚢⚓🛍🍴
Mini Guide to 1 Day in Helsinki
Looking for the best things to see & do in Helsinki in one day? I’ve got you covered. Here’s a look at my top recommendations.
🗺 Top Things to Do in Helsinki:
1. Walking Tour of Helsinki with a City Planner (3 hours)
2. Guided Tour of Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (1 hour)
3. Trip to Porvoo (Finland’s Oldest City) with Transportation (half-day)
🛌 Top Hotels in Helsinki:
1. Yard Hostel (Trendy, Budget)
2. Hotel Katajanokka (Historic, Mid-Range)
3. Hotel Kämp (Iconic, Upscale)
💌 Helsinki Travel Tips:
Try the sauna. Finland is home to over 2 million saunas, for its population of just 5 million people. Visit a local sauna to see why this is such an integral part of Finnish culture. If you’re brave enough, take a dip in the sea afterward. Yes, even in the winter!
2. Bring your own booze. Alcohol is expensive in Finland, so why not stock up on your spirits on the ferry or at the airport? It’s perfectly acceptable to drink in public places, such as the park or harbourfront.
3. Travel like a local with the HSL app. The public transport in Helsinki is highly efficient. Download the HSL app and book a 24-hour ticket to unlock the city’s major sights (including Suomenlinna) without breaking a sweat.
How to Spend One Day in Helsinki
If you’re looking for even MORE things to do in Helsinki, don’t miss out on my comprehensive guide that dives deep into the city's rich offering of activities and cultural sights: Discover Helsinki: 30+ of the Best Things to Do in Finland's Capital
🧇☕ Morning
Breakfast
Start your one day in Helsinki with a hearty breakfast at one of these recommended cafes, each offering a different yet quintessentially Finnish experience.
Cafe Ekberg: Established in 1852, Cafe Ekberg is one of Helsinki's oldest cafes and is renowned for its traditional Finnish breakfast. The cafe offers a variety of pastries, including its famous "Ekberg's Champagne Cork" pastry, alongside an assortment of hot drinks and juices. The atmosphere is classic, allowing you to step back in time as you enjoy your morning meal. Prices range from €10 to €20 per person.
Fazer Cafe: For those interested in a modern Finnish breakfast experience, Fazer Cafe is a popular choice. Known for its quality coffee, a broad selection of pastries (including the Karelian pie), and its own line of chocolates, this cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with contemporary decor. The prices are similar to Cafe Ekberg, generally ranging from €10 to €20 per person.
Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square
After breakfast, begin your day at the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, which towers majestically over Senate Square.
Designed by Carl Ludvig Engel and completed in 1852, this neoclassical wonder is one of Helsinki’s most photographed landmarks. Make your way up the wide steps for an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the cityscape.
Don't overlook the Tsar Alexander II statue situated in the square—it's a piece of history worth admiring.
While in the area, consider visiting the nearby Helsinki City Museum to deepen your understanding of the city’s history. Senate Square is also a prime spot for people-watching; you’ll see a mix of tourists and locals going about their day.
Alternatively, you can book a small-group walking tour with a local City Planner guide. It’s a great way to visit the most important landmarks of Helsinki in one day, plus you can learn some interesting tidbits about the city’s past.
National Library
A mere stone’s throw from Senate Square, your next destination is the National Library of Finland. This architectural gem, also designed by Engel, is a haven for both book lovers and fans of grand architecture.
The main reading room is a highlight, with its towering bookshelves and classical aesthetics; be sure to capture the ornate detailing of the Cupola Hall as well.
For those interested in rare books, the library's special collections are a must-see.
If you have a little extra time, consider partaking in an architecture walking tour with an expert local. You can visit additional sights like the Oodi Public Library, Kiasma Museum, and the Rock Church.
Uspenski Cathedral
This Eastern Orthodox masterpiece is perched on a hill, offering a striking view of Helsinki below.
Built between 1862 and 1868, Uspenski Cathedral stands as a vivid reminder of Finland's Russian legacy. The interior is a spectacle in itself, boasting an impressive array of icons and a magnificent altar.
If you're a fan of intricate details, you'll find the gold and intricate artwork inside the cathedral captivating.
While you're in the area, consider taking a brief walk to the nearby Katajanokka district, which is renowned for its well-preserved Art Nouveau buildings—including the famous Katajanokka hotel (housed inside a former prison). It's an ideal area for architecture enthusiasts and those looking for more serene surroundings.
Market Square
Your next stop is the effervescent Market Square, located right beside the harbor.
What you'll find here largely depends on the season. From fresh produce in the summer to seasonal treats in the winter, the range of offerings is diverse.
For foodies, the square boasts an array of ready-to-eat options, including various types of fish and even reindeer hot dogs.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, traditional Finnish crafts are plentiful. I bought a beautiful hand-crafted wooden ship magnet from a local vendor for just 5€.
>> The Best Souvenirs to Buy in Helsinki
Old Market Hall
For a more tranquil shopping experience, head over to the Old Market Hall, which is a brief walk from Market Square.
As one of Finland's oldest continuously running market halls, the atmosphere here is steeped in history. Vendors offer a variety of Finnish food products, from fresh fish to gourmet cheeses and baked goods.
🎧🌤 Afternoon
Lunch
After soaking in the sights and sounds of Helsinki's market life, it's time for a well-deserved lunch.
Both the Market Square and the Old Market Hall offer a variety of Finnish delicacies, allowing you to choose your dining ambiance based on your mood—alfresco at the Market Square or cozy indoors at the Old Market Hall.
Indulge in some Finnish staples like reindeer sausages, salmon soup, and Karelian pies, or go for the ever-popular meatballs. Prices are moderate, ranging from €8 to €20 depending on your selection.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
After your hearty lunch, it's time to set sail—figuratively speaking, of course. Take a ferry to Suomenlinna, a sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to 1748. This historical gem is more than just a fortress; it's an island community with around 800 residents.
Wander through the intricate network of fortifications, tunnels, and bunkers that once protected the city. Don't miss the Suomenlinna Museum, where you can dive deeper into the fortress's storied past. For photography enthusiasts, Suomenlinna offers plenty of Insta-worthy moments, thanks to its scenic sea views and historical architecture.
While the island has public restrooms and a small grocery store right beside the ferry terminal, dining options are sparse, especially during the winter months. So, consider bringing a snack or picking up something delectable from the Old Market Hall before you go.
A word to the wise: the last ferry back to Helsinki varies depending on the season, so double-check the schedule to avoid any maritime mishaps. If you've got a bit more time before the last ferry, consider visiting the nearby submarine Vesikko, a sub that served in WWII and is now a fascinating museum piece.
>> Book a 1-hour guided walking tour of Suomenlinna here!
Esplanade Park
Once you've returned to mainland Helsinki, make your way to Esplanade Park—a serene green space right in the middle of the city. The park comes alive with live music performances during the summer and transforms into a spectacle of Christmas lights in the winter, making it a delightful year-round destination.
Enclosed by elegant boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, Esplanade Park serves as a luxurious yet peaceful retreat from urban life.
If you're interested in art, the Ateneum Art Museum is just a short walk away and boasts an impressive collection of Finnish and international works. Regardless of the season, the park offers a relaxing setting to catch your breath and savor the ambiance of Helsinki.
Design District
Spend your late afternoon in Helsinki’s Design District, a hub that brings together over 200 artists, designers, and entrepreneurs. This is where you'll find the flagship stores of Iittala, Arabia, and Marimekko—household names that have shaped Finnish design for decades.
Iittala: Known for its timeless glassware and tableware, Iittala has been a part of Finnish homes since 1881. Their designs, such as the iconic Alvar Aalto vase, are cherished globally.
Arabia: Specializing in ceramic tableware, Arabia has been at the forefront of Finnish design since 1873. Don't leave without exploring their Moomin collection, inspired by Tove Jansson's beloved characters.
Marimekko: Bold patterns and vibrant colors define Marimekko, a brand that has been making a statement in Finnish fashion and home décor since 1951.
But the district isn't just about shopping; it's a way to appreciate the minimalist yet functional ethos that is at the core of Finnish culture. After you're done window-shopping (or actual shopping), be sure to also visit:
Stockmann: One of the largest department stores in the Nordics, Stockmann offers a one-stop shopping experience where you can find anything from high-end fashion to gourmet Finnish food.
Kaisaniemi Reuse Centre: For those looking for something special without the flagship store price tag, this second-hand store offers a variety of goods from home decor to clothing and trinkets. If you're lucky, you might even find items from Iittala, Arabia, or Marimekko at a fraction of the cost. Shopping here supports a more sustainable lifestyle—a value that's deeply ingrained in Finnish culture.
As you saunter through the district, keep an eye out for galleries, small boutiques, and artisan workshops that exemplify Helsinki’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Each store and space you visit is like a mini-museum offering a lesson in Finnish culture and aesthetic ideals.
🍸🌙 Evening
Sauna
In Finland, saunas are not just a luxury; they're a way of life. Integrated into the very fabric of Finnish culture, saunas have a historical significance rooted in practicality—serving as a warm place to bathe during the frigid winters.
Amazingly, the country boasts about three million saunas for its 5.5 million residents, which means there's essentially a sauna for every household. Pictured above is the sauna located in the bathroom of my Helsinki apartment!
A trip to Finland is incomplete without a traditional Finnish sauna experience, and Helsinki offers some of the best options.
Allas Sea Pool: Located next to the Market Square, Allas Sea Pool offers a unique combination of sauna and an open-air swimming pool overlooking the harbor. It's a great choice if you're looking to stay close to the city center. A single entry costs between €14 and €20.
Löyly Helsinki: If you're leaning toward a more modern and scenic experience, Löyly, situated along the coastline, is hard to beat. The architecture is sleek and the sea views from the sauna are breathtaking. Expect to spend around €19 to €25 for a session.
Both options provide you with the opportunity to take a dip in the Baltic Sea after your sauna, which is known to have amazing health benefits. Don’t be afraid to try it, even in the winter!
Dinner
As the sun begins to set, Helsinki's culinary scene comes alive. While your choices for dinner are nearly endless (Helsinki is home to a wide variety of restaurants), I am going to recommend two options: the sea-facing Restaurant Merimakasiini, known for its exquisite seafood offerings, and Restaurant Forza, where you can enjoy the best pizza in Finland (literally).
Restaurant Merimakasiini: Nestled by the sea, Merimakasiini specializes in seafood dishes, offering everything from Salmon soup and Finnish trout to mushroom goulash and seasonal specialties. It’s arguably the most famous fish restaurant in Helsinki. An ideal spot for romantic dinners or special occasions, the atmosphere is upscale but inviting. Expect to spend around €25 to €50 per person depending on your selections, I highly recommend the Chef’s Menu, which includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert.
Restaurant Forza: Located in the heart of Helsinki, Forza was recently voted the best pizzeria in Finland and placed 47th in world rankings. The restaurant exudes an intimate yet rustic charm with wooden interiors and warm lighting. The menu features a variety of pizzas and a few small appetizers. Signature dishes include house-made fritto and pizza in teglia—a crunchy and light Roman-style pizza baked in a tray. Prices are moderate, with most dishes ranging from €20 to €30.
Drinks
Consider stopping by one of these recommended locales for drinks to round off your adventurous day. Each offers a unique atmosphere, ensuring that whatever your mood, there’s a spot for you.
Helsinki Bryggeri Brewhouse: This brewhouse is a popular spot among craft beer enthusiasts in downtown Helsinki (just around the corner from the Helsinki Cathedral). With an onsite brewery, it offers a varied selection of house-brewed and craft beers from Finland and beyond. The venue is casual, with a courtyard patio open during the summer. The menu features a variety of eats—from burgers and wings to Asian-inspired main courses. Prices are fairly standard for Helsinki, ranging from €6 to €12 per drink.
Bob's Laundry: For something a bit different, Bob's Laundry provides an eclectic atmosphere in what used to be an actual laundromat. In fact, it still is! You can take your laundry with you to this bar for free (detergent included) and enjoy their distinctive cocktail menu (with drinks that have names like “No Karen, you can’t talk to the Manager”) while you wait. Drinks are priced at 14-15€ each and small appetizers are available, ranging from 4-10€ per plate. The fastest cycle takes just 35 minutes, making it some of the quickest and definitely the most interesting laundry service in town.
Spending the Night?
The Best Places to Stay in Helsinki
So you’ve decided to extend your one day in Helsinki into an overnight stay or maybe you've just realized that Helsinki deserves more than a mere 24 hours. Either way, you’re going to need a place to rest your head. Here are some hotel options to suit various budgets and tastes, each with its own unique charm:
🛋 Yard Hostel
Who it's for: Budget travelers, solo adventurers, and social butterflies.
Unique Features: Minimalist design that's in sync with Finnish aesthetics, and a communal kitchen where you can meet travelers from around the world.
Location: Situated a 5-minute walk from both the main train station and bus station, around the corner from the Stockmann department store.
Price Range: Dorm rooms start at €30, and private rooms with shared bathrooms start at €80.
🏛️ Hotel Katajanokka
Who it's for: History buffs, and couples looking for a unique experience.
Unique Features: Housed in a former prison, this hotel provides a unique lodging experience complete with the original prison bars on windows.
Location: Located on Katajanokka near the Uspenski Cathedral, a peaceful setting that's still a quick tram ride away from the city center.
Price Range: Starts at approximately €130 per night for a double room.
🍾 Hotel Kämp
Who it's for: Luxury seekers, business travelers, and those who enjoy personalized services.
Unique Features: High-end amenities, exquisite décor, and top-notch customer service.
Location: Nestled in the city center, near Esplanade and the Design District, offering easy access to major attractions and business districts.
Price Range: Rates start at around €250 per night for a standard room.
Resources for Planning Your Trip
For those who want to dive even deeper into planning their one day in Helsinki, here are some useful resources to further aid your itinerary crafting:
Helsinki Tourism Board: The official source for all things Helsinki. Whether you're searching for event calendars, city maps, or travel tips, this is the ultimate guide to what's happening in the Finnish capital. Visit their website.
Helsinki Public Transportation (HSL): Navigate the city like a pro! HSL provides comprehensive details on bus, tram, and ferry schedules to Suomenlinna, as well as fare information. Learn more about Helsinki Public Transport.
GetYourGuide: Limited on time but want to experience the city to its fullest? GetYourGuide offers a plethora of guided tours and experiences that cater to various interests—from food and design to history and culture. Explore the best tours in Helsinki on GetYourGuide.
Continue Exploring the Nordics
Loved discovering Helsinki through this guide? I've got plenty more to share about traveling in Finland and the Nordics! Check out these other posts to continue your adventure:
Discover Helsinki: 30+ of the Best Things to Do in Finland's Capital
From Finland with Love: The Best Souvenirs to Buy in Helsinki
Thanks for reading. Happy travels!
Your Questions on 1 Day in Helsinki, Answered.
Is 1 day enough for Helsinki?
While one day won't cover everything Helsinki has to offer, you can still get a good sense of the city's highlights. One day in Helsinki allows you to cover the main attractions like Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, Market Square, and Suomenlinna Fortress. However, more time would let you explore neighborhoods like Kallio or enjoy the city's vibrant arts scene.
What to do with 24 hours in Helsinki?
With just 24 hours, you'll want to focus on key attractions. Start with breakfast at local favorites like Cafe Ekberg, then head to Senate Square and the Helsinki Cathedral. Explore Suomenlinna and the Design District in the afternoon. Don't miss the experience of a Finnish sauna at Allas Sea Pool or Löyly. Finish your day off with a visit to a Finnish sauna and dinner at top restaurants like Restaurant Merimakasiini or Forza.
How can I spend a few hours in Helsinki?
With limited time, focus on centrally located spots. Senate Square, with the Helsinki Cathedral, National Library, and Helsinki City Museum offers a quick cultural experience. The nearby Market Square is excellent for a fast, authentic Finnish meal.
What is worth seeing in Helsinki?
Must-see attractions include Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, and Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. The Design District is a must for shoppers, featuring iconic Finnish brands. For an authentic sauna experience, consider Allas Sea Pool or Löyly.
Is Helsinki a walkable city?
Absolutely. The city center is compact, and attractions like the Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, and Market Square are within easy walking distance of each other and the city’s main transport hubs.
Is Helsinki cheap or expensive?
Helsinki leans toward the expensive side, especially for dining and shopping. However, many of the city's attractions, like the Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, National Library, and Old Market Hall, are free to enjoy. Public transport is reasonably priced and even offers access to destinations like Suomenlinna.
Is Helsinki a 15-minute city?
While Helsinki is working towards the concept of a 15-minute city, it's not quite there yet. However, its efficient public transportation system and walkable nature make it relatively easy to access essential services and attractions in a short amount of time.
What is the most beautiful street in Helsinki?
Huvilakatu, located in the Eira district, is often cited as Helsinki's most beautiful street. It’s home to some of the most beautiful Art Nouveau architecture in the city and leads you right to the seashore. Esplanade comes in at a close second—it’s a green boulevard connecting Market Square to the Swedish Theater.
What to do in Helsinki for 3 hours?
With just 3 hours, a tour of Market Square and Old Market Hall would be quite enriching. These are adjacent to the harbor, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views while sampling Finnish foods like reindeer sausages and salmon soup.
Can I speak English in Helsinki?
Yes, English is commonly spoken in Helsinki, especially in tourist areas and by younger Finns. You'll find that menus, signs, and information are often available in English as well. Communication should be smooth.
Do I need cash in Helsinki?
Finland is largely a cashless society, and you can get by using credit or debit cards for most transactions, even in market stalls or on public transportation.
What is the most famous thing in Helsinki?
Among the most famous attractions in Helsinki are the Helsinki Cathedral and Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. Finnish design is also globally recognized, with brands like Iittala, Arabia, and Marimekko hailing from the city.
