Top 25 Things to Do in Helsinki: Main Tourist Attractions

Helsinki Cathedral towers above Senate Square and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. From the wide steps in front, visitors can admire stunning views stretching down to the harbor. Its bright white façade and neoclassical architecture make it a favorite photo spot, while the serene interior offers a quiet contrast to the busy square below.

Temppeliaukio Church, known as the Rock Church, is carved directly into solid granite. Its round copper dome and natural light create a calm and almost spiritual atmosphere. Famous for its unique acoustics, the church regularly hosts concerts and attracts architecture and music lovers from around the world.

Helsinki Olympic Stadium was built for the planned 1940 Olympic Games and remains a symbol of Finnish sporting history. Its 72-meter tower offers panoramic views over Helsinki’s skyline. After a major renovation, the stadium now combines historic architecture with modern facilities, exhibitions, and guided tours.

Colorful stalls fill Kauppatori with fresh berries, salmon, pastries, and local crafts. Located by the harbor, it’s a lively meeting point for both locals and travelers. Visitors can watch the ferries come and go, taste traditional snacks, or simply enjoy the vibrant market atmosphere.

Inside the historic Old Market Hall, the scent of fresh bread and smoked fish drifts through the narrow aisles. This 19th-century food hall brings together Finnish classics, from reindeer meat to artisan chocolates. It’s a cozy stop to taste local flavors and watch daily life unfold.

The elegant Finnish National Opera offers unforgettable evenings of ballet, opera, and orchestral music. Its modern stage technology and world-class acoustics create a spectacular setting for both grand productions and contemporary performances.

Home to the country’s most important art collection, Ateneum Art Museum presents both Finnish classics and international works. Its 19th-century building adds to the charm, making the museum a must for anyone interested in art and history. Seasonal exhibitions bring something new each visit.

Soaring 40 meters above the harbor, SkyWheel Helsinki gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of the capital. The cabins are enclosed and comfortable year-round, making it a popular stop in every season. Watching the sunset from the top is especially magical.

The red-brick Uspenski Cathedral rises on a small hill overlooking the harbor. Its golden onion domes and Eastern Orthodox architecture make it a striking landmark. The interior, decorated with icons and chandeliers, offers a quiet space away from the busy streets.

Hockey fans and concertgoers gather at Helsinki Ice Hall, one of the city’s best-known arenas. Open since the 1960s, it hosts major sports events and international artists. The lively atmosphere inside makes every event here an unforgettable experience.

Surrounded by peaceful greenery, Sibelius Park & Monument honors Finland’s famous composer Jean Sibelius. Its striking steel pipe structure resonates softly with the wind, creating a unique sound. Visitors often walk underneath the monument or pause on nearby benches to enjoy the calm setting.

In the heart of Helsinki, Esplanadi Park is a favorite place to slow down. Locals and visitors gather here to listen to live music, relax on the lawns, or enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafés. The tree-lined paths give it a charming, almost boulevard-like atmosphere.

Marble columns, frescoed ceilings, and quiet reading rooms make The National Library of Finland one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Its vast collection includes centuries-old manuscripts and maps. Even without studying, it’s worth stepping inside for the architecture alone.

In the middle of one of Helsinki’s busiest squares stands Kamppi Chapel, also known as the Chapel of Silence. Built from warm-colored wood and designed for reflection, it offers a moment of calm away from the city noise — no sermons, just silence and soft light.

A stone bear stands guard outside The National Museum of Finland, greeting visitors before they even enter. Inside, the museum traces Finland’s history from prehistoric times to the modern day. Exhibits, towers, and cultural artifacts make it a favorite for curious travelers.

Contemporary art takes center stage at Kiasma Museum. Its fluid architecture and light-filled interior match the creativity of the exhibitions inside. Visitors can expect changing installations, interactive works, and thought-provoking performances.

Located at the edge of Esplanadi, the Swedish Theatre (Svenska Teatern) is Finland’s oldest theatre still in operation. Although most performances are in Swedish, many productions offer Finnish surtitles and selected shows include English subtitles, so non-Swedish speakers can still follow the action. Its round white façade and elegant interior make it a true cultural landmark.

Soaking in warm water while watching ferries pass by is a highlight of Allas Sea Pool. This outdoor pool complex offers both heated and seawater pools, plus a sauna with a view. It’s open year-round, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

HAM Helsinki Art Museum focuses on Finnish modern and contemporary art. Known for its bright halls and large murals, it also celebrates iconic figures like Tove Jansson. The museum’s approachable atmosphere makes art feel accessible to everyone.

One of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden invites visitors into tropical warmth even in winter. The glasshouses are filled with exotic plants, while the outdoor gardens bloom beautifully during the summer months.

Finnish design history comes alive at Design Museum. The exhibitions highlight objects from everyday life as well as world-famous creations by designers like Alvar Aalto. It’s an inspiring stop for anyone interested in design and architecture.

The two massive granite figures holding lamps at Helsinki Central Railway Station are among the city’s most beloved landmarks. Beyond the statues, the station’s Art Nouveau design and constant movement give it a unique energy.

Musiikkitalo, the Helsinki Music Centre, blends transparency and acoustics in perfect harmony. Home to the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, it welcomes visitors to concerts, rehearsals, or simply to relax in its open lobby with views of the Parliament House.

The sea views and winding paths of Suomenlinna reveal centuries of history. This UNESCO World Heritage site combines military architecture, green spaces, and charming cafés. Ferries run year-round from Market Square.

Beneath the wave-shaped domes of Amos Rex lies a bold and modern exhibition space. The museum is known for its immersive installations and playful architecture. Many visitors also enjoy climbing the outdoor domes for a unique city view.