Helsinki - Places to Visit
Finnish Sauna
No trip to Helsinki would be compete without a visit to one of the numerous public saunas dotted around the city. For an authentic experience check out the Kotiharjun sauna, which is located in the Kallio district. This is the only remaining wooden sauna left in Helsinki, and it has been serving customers for over 80 years! The whole experience is very relaxing and it also has additional health benefits. Prices for adults are €10, and children €5.
top ↑Suomellina castle
The stunning Suomellina castle is a sea-fortress, which overlooks the Baltic Sea. It is one of the most visited and well-loved tourist attractions in Finland. Originally it was used to guard the entrance to Helsinki harbour, now it is now recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site. The island which the castle is located on can be reached via a 15 min boat ride, which departs from Helsinki market square. Tickets can be purchased from an automatic ticketing system in the pier. There are also several restaurants, shops which are open on the island in the summer months.
top ↑Helsinki Zoo
The Helsinki Zoo is located in Korkeasaari district, and it is the largest zoo in the country. It has over 150 animal species from around the globe (including snow leopards and lions) and 1000 different plant species. The Zoo is open all year round and admission costs start from just €7 per adult and €5 for children. The park can be accessed by special zoo buses which frequently run from the city centre all year round, or via a ferry which runs in the summer months of May- September, and departs from outside the Presidential Palace.
top ↑Ateneum Art Museum
This art museum houses the largest collection of public art in Finland. It showcases works from some of the worlds most famous artists. Exhibitions and collections change on a frequent basis, so check the website in advance to see whats on. The gallery is open from Tuesday - Saturday and admission is €9 for adults and children under 18 can enter free of charge.
top ↑Kaivopuisto Park
This stunning park stretches 0.5km2 and features manicured lawns, cliffs and even the remains of a stone fortress built in the 18th century. In the winter time people flock here to enjoy tobogganing on the steep slopes; while in the summer months it is a popular place for a picnic with all the family. There are also special concerts and festivals put on in the park in the summertime. Admission is free - just don't forget your picnic blanket!
top ↑Helsinki cathedral
The Helsinki cathedral is one of Finland's major landmarks, and it is a must see for all visitors to the country. It was originally built as a tribute for the Grand Duke Nicholas I - construction started in 1830 and took 24 years to complete. It is located above the Senate Square, which also contains the offices of the cabinet and prime minister, and the statue of Alexander. A top-tip is to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds, as the cathedral is visited by over 350,000 people annually.
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