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Visit Helsinki Cathedral with ease – history, opening hours, entry tips and ticket details to plan your visit with confidence.
Rising above the historic Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral (Finnish: Helsingin tuomiokirkko) is one of Finland’s most recognisable landmarks. Its bright white walls and green domes create a striking silhouette against the city’s skyline and invite both quiet reflection and snapshots from every angle.
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Built in the mid-19th century in a neoclassical style, the cathedral was originally dedicated to Tsar Nicholas I. Today it stands as a symbol of Helsinki’s identity and independence. The wide steps leading to the entrance have become a natural meeting point where locals and visitors sit and watch the square come alive.
The large central dome of Helsinki Cathedral was inspired by Berlin Cathedral. Architect Carl Ludvig Engel admired Prussian architecture and drew on classical church designs from Germany for the roof.
Helsinki Cathedral Photos
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Image Source: Jan Hammershaug / Flickr
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* Note: The photos in this gallery have been cropped and/or resized. The images are used under the Creative Commons licenses specified in the original sources.
The interior impresses with its light, uncluttered design. Subtle architectural details reveal the craftsmanship of the period, while the spacious nave offers a calm contrast to the bustle outside. Services are still held, but most people come to appreciate the history and atmosphere.
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Tickets, Prices and Visiting Tips
Planning to visit Helsinki Cathedral? Here you’ll find key details about admission, opening hours and available tours.
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Before Finnish independence, the cathedral was known as St Nicholas’ Church, named after Tsar Nicholas I of Russia, under whose rule Finland was an autonomous Grand Duchy.
📅 Visitor Information
Opening Hours: 🕒
- Sept 1 – May 31: Mon–Sat 09:00–18:00, Sun 11:00–18:00
- June 1 – Aug 31: Mon–Thu 09:00–17:00, Fri 09:00–14:00
- Additional summer opening: Mon–Fri 18:00–21:00
Admission: 🎫
- Adults: €10 (summer) / €8 (winter, voluntary)
- Reduced: €8 (students, seniors, groups of 10+)
- Children under 18: Free
- Catholic parish members: Free
Additional Notes: ℹ️
- Tickets: Available at the counter or online
- Payment: Credit card, debit card, self-service terminal
- The crypt: Open year-round free of charge
- The mausoleum: Closed in winter
Entry tickets are available at the door or through the official online system. Opening hours and access can vary, so checking the cathedral’s website before your visit is recommended.
Beyond its architecture, the building rewards visitors with panoramic views from the terrace across the city centre to the harbour. At sunset, the scene turns golden and the steps fill with people enjoying the view.
It is easy to reach on foot from Helsinki Central Station. The nearby streets offer cafés, shops and other attractions, making it an ideal first stop for exploring the city.
Twelve larger-than-life statues of the apostles stand on the roof of the cathedral. They face all directions over the city, symbolising protection over Helsinki.
Hotels Near Helsinki Cathedral
If you’re planning to explore Helsinki Cathedral and want to stay nearby, use the form below to find suitable hotel options close to the landmark.
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Map & Contact Information
CONTACT
Address:
Unioninkatu 29, 00170 Helsinki, Finland
Phone:
+358 9 2340 6120
Website:
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