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Planning notes for Helsinki

Must-try foods in Helsinki

• Lohikeitto (Creamy Salmon Soup)
  Lohikeitto (Creamy Salmon Soup)The quintessential Finnish comfort food, this soup features chunks of fresh salmon, potatoes, and carrots in a rich, buttery broth infused with cream and a generous amount of fresh dill. It is traditionally served with a side of dark rye bread.
• Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pie)
  Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pie)An iconic rye-crust pastry filled with creamy rice porridge. These are best enjoyed warm and topped with 'munavoi' (a spread made of crushed hard-boiled eggs and butter). It is a staple found in every market and bakery across Helsinki.
• Korvapuusti (Finnish Cinnamon Bun)
  Korvapuusti (Finnish Cinnamon Bun)While similar to Swedish rolls, the Finnish version is distinguished by its unique butterfly shape and a heavy dose of crushed cardamom in the dough. Topped with pearl sugar, these are a central part of the 'kahvi ja pulla' (coffee and bun) culture.
• Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer)
  Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer)A traditional dish originating from the Sámi people of Lapland, widely available in Helsinki's specialized Nordic restaurants. Thinly sliced reindeer meat is sautéed in butter and served with creamy mashed potatoes, tart lingonberries, and pickled cucumbers.
• Paistetut Muikut (Fried Vendace)
  Paistetut Muikut (Fried Vendace)Small, fresh-water whitefish from Finland’s thousands of lakes, typically coated in rye flour and fried in plenty of butter until crispy. They are a beloved street food staple, especially at the Helsinki Market Square (Kauppatori).
• Ruisleipä (Finnish Rye Bread)
  Ruisleipä (Finnish Rye Bread)The national food of Finland, this dense, dark, and sour bread is made from 100% rye flour and sourdough starter. It is highly nutritious and serves as the base for open-faced sandwiches or a mandatory side for soups.

Trip guide

• About Helsinki
  About HelsinkiHelsinki, the capital of Finland, was established in 1550 by King Gustav Vasa of Sweden. The city’s historical development is characterized by periods under Swedish and Russian governance before Finland achieved independence in 1917.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Helsinki is from June to August, when the weather is mild and the city experiences nearly 19 hours of daylight. While winter offers a snowy atmosphere, it is very dark and cold, often requiring heavy thermal gear for outdoor activities. Summer marks the peak tourist season with higher prices and crowds, so consider visiting in May or September for a balance of manageable weather and fewer tourists.
• Getting around
  Getting around Helsinki

  • International Flights and Airport Trains Most travelers arrive at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), which is well-connected to major global hubs. From the airport, local I and P trains depart every 10–20 minutes.
  • HSL Public Transit Network Helsinki features a highly efficient integrated system managed by HSL, allowing travel via buses, trams, the metro, and commuter trains with a single ticket. For local exploration.
  • Baltic Sea Ferries Helsinki is a major maritime hub with frequent ferry connections to Tallinn, Estonia (2 hours) and overnight services to Stockholm.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Download the HSL app to purchase digital tickets for all public transport, as you cannot buy them from drivers and cash is rarely used.
  • Tipping is not expected in restaurants since service charges are included in the bill, though rounding up to the nearest euro for good service is a common local gesture.
  • Always shower thoroughly before entering a public sauna and remember to sit on a small towel for hygiene.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Helsinki

  • Alvar Aalto Anniversary Year: Major tributes including the 'Shapes of Wellbeing' exhibition at the Architecture & Design Museum and the reopening of the iconic Finlandia Hall.
  • Maritime Urbanism: The debut of new self-service saunas in the archipelago and the ongoing Crown Bridges (Kruunusillat) project connecting the eastern waterfront.