Travel Guide Helsinki
Considered one of the most pleasant cities to live in the world, Helsinki is a poetic and graceful city, muse of many painters and artists. It must be said that its silhouette has something chic and touching, between its endless maritime horizon whose front is lined with quiet buildings and its vast avenues crossed by secret passages, along the shopping malls... Nature is also omnipresent, with its undulating hues, when spring diligently strips the city of its white winter coat - Helsinki the sleeping beauty - to adorn it with fresh and luminous colors. The Helsinki tourist guide makes a point of exploring the many dimensions of the Finnish city: its architecture, marked by the seal of classicism and then of the avant-garde, its museums (including the very good museum of the city) and its dynamic art galleries, its cosy cafés, its gourmet restaurants, its nightlife too... Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a small Baltic paradise where it is good to get lost, a little, a lot, passionately...
What to visit Helsinki?
Suggested addresses Helsinki
When to go to Helsinki?
When to go to Helsinki? The Finnish capital can be visited all year round: in summer, to admire its archipelago under the midnight sun, and in winter, to see its frozen sea and snow-covered nature. It is very pleasant to admire the change of seasons in the city, such as the season called ruska, at the beginning of autumn, when the leaves of the trees take on flamboyant colors. This is perhaps one of the best times to visit Helsinki. It is worth noting that the peak tourist seasons are June-July and December-February (the Christmas season is extremely popular). If you are wondering when to go to Helsinki without the crowds, you should avoid the last two periods.
Weather at the moment
The weather in Helsinki is governed by a climate of character: while snow covers it for a good part of the year - generally from November to April - when summer arrives, the climate becomes milder. Helsinki's temperatures range from 17°C in summer to -7°C in winter. The water in the lakes and the Baltic Sea in summer ranges from 18 to 23 °C in southern Finland.
The cost of living in Helsinki corresponds to that of the Nordic countries, in line with a higher average level of wages: a little higher than in France in general, particularly with regard to food. Fruits and vegetables, most of which are imported from faraway countries in winter, become quite expensive. Think about buying local when you can: cheaper and more ecological, it is well worth some sacrifices.... Outings, such as bars, restaurants and shows, are expensive.
There are no specific formalities or visa requirements for Europeans from the Schengen area and Swiss citizens wishing to visit Helsinki. A valid identity card or passport is sufficient. For Canadians wishing to visit Helsinki, a passport valid for 3 months after return is required, but no visa is required.
There are no health concerns in Helsinki and no vaccinations are required to travel there. For a temporary stay in Helsinki (vacations or studies), ask for the European Health Insurance Card. It is free and personal and is valid for one year. To do so, contact your social security center, which will provide you with it within two weeks. If the water is drinkable in Helsinki, it may be a good idea to vary the sources of hydration (especially bottles of mineral water).
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
Media
How to go to Helsinki? Our advice & tips
Helsinki is not a new destination in the catalogs of French-speaking tour operators, so it is rather easy to find weekend packages or short stays in the Finnish capital, generally combining flight and accommodation. Helsinki also lends itself perfectly to family stays, vacations with friends, and even honeymoons... under the midnight sun!
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationThe average price of a flight to Helsinki in high season from France is around 200 €, and 150 € in low season. It should be noted that the price variation depends on the company borrowed but, above all, on the time required to book. To obtain attractive rates, it is essential to do so well in advance. If you can, consider buying your tickets six months before departure!
Helsinki is a modern capital city with all the modern means of public transport: a metro line, a network of trains and streetcars, bus lines and a ferry service. You can also get around very well by bicycle in Helsinki, and if the weather is too bad, you can opt for a cab!
