2-Day Helsinki Itinerary: Sightseeing and Nightlife Extravaganza

Helsinki, Finland

2 days

Lutheran Temppeliaukio Church also known as Church of Rock and Rock Church
Botanic garden
Helsinki Central park
Winter time
Waterfall in Vanhankaupunginkoski

About Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki, the vibrant seaside capital of Finland, is a city of beautiful islands and great green parks. Its modern architecture, cutting-edge design, and high-tech achievements blend seamlessly with its rich history and traditional Finnish culture. Visit the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, explore the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, or immerse yourself in Finnish art at the Ateneum. Helsinki's culinary scene is a fusion of traditional and contemporary, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The city also offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local boutiques to international brands. In winter, enjoy the magical Christmas markets or try ice-swimming, while summer brings endless daylight and outdoor festivals. Helsinki, a city that effortlessly combines nature and urban life, is a destination that offers something for everyone.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Iconic Landmarks and Vibrant Nightlife of Helsinki

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, a distinctive landmark in the Helsinki cityscape with its tall, green dome surrounded by four smaller domes. The church was built between 1830-1852, in neoclassical style.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Finnish lunch in a local restaurant. Try some local delicacies like salmon soup, Karelian pies, and Finnish meatballs.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 18th-century maritime fortress and its museums are a must-see for any visitor to Helsinki.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines. Helsinki is known for its vibrant food scene, so you're sure to find something to your liking.

Evening

Experience Helsinki's nightlife in the city center. The city is known for its lively bars and clubs, where you can enjoy a drink and dance the night away.

Morning

Visit the Market Square, where you can buy fresh Finnish food and souvenirs. The market is located by the sea in the heart of the city, and it's a great place to experience the local culture.

Lunch

Have lunch in a cozy café or restaurant near the market. Try some Finnish rye bread or a salmon sandwich, and don't forget to have a cup of Finnish coffee.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the National Museum of Finland, where you can learn about the country's history from prehistoric times to the present.

Dinner

Enjoy a fine dining experience in one of Helsinki's top restaurants. Finnish cuisine is a unique blend of traditional and modern flavors, so be sure to try some local dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a traditional Finnish Sauna. It's a quintessential Finnish experience that you shouldn't miss.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

Helsinki Cathedral

1
Helsinki Cathedral

Helsinki Cathedral is a beautiful Lutheran church located in the center of the city. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Helsinki with its distinctive white facade and green domes.

Attractions
Landmarks
Religious Sites
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

2
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Finland's most popular tourist attractions. It's a cultural treasure that consists of museums, restaurants, and events.

Attractions
Landmarks
Market Square

3
Market Square

Market Square is a central square in Helsinki where vendors sell fresh Finnish food and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience Finnish culture and cuisine.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
National Museum of Finland

4
National Museum of Finland

The National Museum of Finland presents Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present day, through objects and cultural history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Finnish Sauna

5
Finnish Sauna

Sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture. There are public saunas in Helsinki where you can experience a traditional Finnish sauna. Some saunas also offer services such as a bar or restaurant.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Karjalanpiirakka

Karjalanpiirakka

A traditional Finnish dish, Karjalanpiirakka is a rye crust pastry filled with rice porridge. It's a popular snack in Helsinki, often enjoyed with egg butter.

Korvapuusti

Korvapuusti

A Finnish cinnamon roll, Korvapuusti is a sweet pastry that's a favorite among locals and tourists in Helsinki. It's typically served with coffee.

Salmiakki

Salmiakki

Salmiakki is a type of Finnish licorice that's flavored with ammonium chloride for a salty, tangy taste. It's a popular candy in Helsinki.

Leipäjuusto

Leipäjuusto

Also known as 'Finnish squeaky cheese', Leipäjuusto is a fresh cheese traditionally made from cow's beestings. It's often served with cloudberry jam in Helsinki.

Ruisleipä

Ruisleipä

Ruisleipä, or Finnish rye bread, is a staple food in Helsinki. It's dense, dark, and slightly sour, often served with butter and cheese.

Kalakukko

Kalakukko

A traditional Finnish dish, Kalakukko is a fish pie made from rye flour and filled with fish, pork, and bacon. It's a hearty meal often enjoyed in Helsinki.

Poronkäristys

Poronkäristys

Poronkäristys is a traditional Finnish dish made from sautéed reindeer. It's a popular dish in Helsinki, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.

Mustikkapiirakka

Mustikkapiirakka is a Finnish blueberry pie. It's a popular dessert in Helsinki, often enjoyed with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Lohikeitto

Lohikeitto

Lohikeitto is a creamy Finnish salmon soup. It's a popular dish in Helsinki, especially during the colder months.

Karelian Hot Pot

Karelian Hot Pot

Karelian Hot Pot is a traditional Finnish stew made with beef, pork, and sometimes lamb. It's a hearty meal often enjoyed in Helsinki.

Long Drink

Long Drink is a Finnish mixed drink made from gin and grapefruit soda. It's a popular alcoholic beverage in Helsinki.

Sima

Sima is a Finnish homemade fermented lemonade. It's a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Helsinki, especially during the Vappu festival.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Helsinki, Finland as a tourist is during the summer months, from June to August. During this period, the city experiences its warmest weather, with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is also the time of the Midnight Sun, where daylight can last up to 19 hours a day, giving you plenty of time to explore. Additionally, many of Helsinki's popular events and festivals, such as the Helsinki Festival and Flow Festival, take place during the summer. However, if you're interested in winter activities like skiing or witnessing the Northern Lights, you might prefer to visit between December and March.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

June 21

Fri

Midsummer Eve

June 22

Sat

Midsummer

November 2

Sat

All Saints' Day

December 6

Fri

Independence Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Helsinki has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, metro, and ferries. The Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) provides services within the city and its surrounding areas. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines, online, or via the HSL app.

Helsinki's city bike share program is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around. The bikes can be rented for a day, a week, or the entire season. They are available from early spring to late autumn.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Helsinki. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Taxis are readily available in Helsinki. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi stands located around the city.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to travel outside of Helsinki. However, parking can be expensive in the city center, and traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Ferries are a fun and scenic way to get around. They operate between the city center and the islands in the Helsinki archipelago, including the popular Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.

Trams are a convenient way to get around the city center. Helsinki's tram network is extensive and reliable, and it's a great way to see the city's main sights.

Helsinki is a compact city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a pleasant way to get around, especially in the summer months.

Helsinki is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of bike lanes and paths. Bikes can be rented from various locations around the city.

The local train network is a quick and efficient way to travel between Helsinki and its surrounding areas. The main train station, Helsinki Central, is a major transport hub.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+2

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Helsinki, Finland as a first time visitor

1

The official languages of Helsinki are Finnish and Swedish, but English is widely spoken.

2

Finland uses the Euro (€) as its currency.

3

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Helsinki, even for small purchases.

4

Tipping is not customary in Finland, as service charges are included in the bill.

5

Helsinki is known for its cleanliness and safety, but like any city, it's important to stay vigilant, especially at night.

6

The city has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a metro system.

7

Helsinki has a cold climate. In winter (December to February), temperatures can drop to -4°F to 23°F (-20°C to -5°C). In summer (June to August), temperatures range from 50°F to 71°F (10°C to 22°C).

8

Helsinki is a very walkable city with many pedestrian-only streets.

9

Finland uses the Type F electrical plug, so you may need an adapter if your devices use a different type.

10

Helsinki is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

11

Tap water in Helsinki is of high quality and safe to drink.

12

Helsinki has a strong coffee culture, with many cafes throughout the city.

13

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places and on public transportation in Helsinki.

14

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many eco-friendly initiatives and options for tourists.

15

Helsinki has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

16

Finnish people value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for any appointments or reservations.

17

Helsinki has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets.

18

The city is known for its design culture, with many shops and galleries dedicated to Finnish design.

19

Helsinki has a diverse food scene, with many restaurants offering traditional Finnish cuisine as well as international options.

20

Public restrooms may charge a small fee, so it's a good idea to keep some coins on hand.

Basic Finnish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hei

hay

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Näkemiin

nak-eh-meen

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Ole hyvä

oh-leh hoo-vah

Making a request

Thank you

Kiitos

kee-tos

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Kyllä

kuu-lla

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ei

ay

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Anteeksi

an-teek-see

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Olen pahoillani

oh-len pah-hoy-lah-nee

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Puhutko englantia?

poo-hoot-ko eng-lan-tee-ah

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

En ymmärrä

en yuh-mah-rah

Having difficulty understanding

Help

Apua

ah-poo-ah

In emergencies

Bathroom

WC

vee-see

Looking for a restroom

Where is...?

Missä on...?

mis-sah on

Asking for directions

How much does it cost?

Paljonko se maksaa?

pal-yon-ko se mak-saa

Shopping or dining

Can I have the bill, please?

Voinko saada laskun, kiitos?

voy-nko saa-da las-kun, kee-tos

At a restaurant

Cheers

Kippis

kip-pis

Toasting at a meal or bar

Good morning

Hyvää huomenta

hoo-vaa huo-men-ta

Greeting in the morning

Good night

Hyvää yötä

hoo-vaa yoo-ta

Saying goodbye or going to bed

I love you

Minä rakastan sinua

mi-na ra-kas-tan si-nu-a

Expressing affection

Nice to meet you

Mukava tavata

moo-ka-va ta-va-ta

Meeting someone for the first time

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Thermal underwear

  • Warm socks

  • Insulated boots

  • Winter coat

  • Gloves

  • Scarf

  • Hat

  • Sweaters

  • Casual outfits for 2 days

  • Sleepwear

  • Underwear

  • Swimsuit (for sauna)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash

  • Face wash

  • Moisturizer

  • Razor

  • Makeup

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Power bank

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Laptop (if needed)

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Eye mask

  • Ear plugs

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader

  • Travel guide and map

  • Umbrella

  • Hand warmers

Weather Conditions

When visiting Helsinki, Finland, it's important to be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions, as the city experiences distinct seasons throughout the year. In the winter months, from December to February, Helsinki can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Expect average temperatures to range from -6°C to -1°C (21°F to 30°F). Snow is common, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and boots. If you're planning to explore the outdoors, consider thermal layers to keep you warm. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual warming with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). It's a good idea to pack layers, as the weather can still be quite chilly, especially in the early spring. Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season in Helsinki. Temperatures typically range from 15°C to 21°C (59°F to 70°F). While it's generally warm, it's advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Don't forget your sunglasses, as Helsinki experiences long hours of daylight in the summer, with the sun setting as late as 10:30 PM. Autumn, from September to November, can be quite cool and wet. Temperatures generally range from 3°C to 10°C (37°F to 50°F). It's a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella, as rain is common during this season. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip so you can pack accordingly. Helsinki's weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for a variety of conditions.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

-3° / -7°

January is the coldest month in Helsinki, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for winter sports, but make sure to pack warm clothing.

February

-2° / -7°

February is still very cold, with plenty of snowfall. It's a good time for winter activities, but be prepared for short daylight hours.

March

2° / -4°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. However, it can still be quite cold, especially at night.

April

8° / 1°

April is a transitional month, with temperatures varying. Snow can still occur, but it's also possible to have warmer, sunnier days.

May

15° / 6°

May is the start of the warmer season, with longer daylight hours. The city starts to bloom and outdoor activities become more enjoyable.

June

20° / 11°

June is a pleasant month with the longest days of the year. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor events.

July

22° / 14°

July is the warmest month in Helsinki, with plenty of sunshine. It's the perfect time for sightseeing and visiting the city's beaches.

August

20° / 13°

August is still warm, but with shorter days. It's a good time to visit parks and enjoy the city's festivals.

September

16° / 9°

September marks the beginning of autumn, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the city.

October

10° / 4°

October is a cool month with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions, as the weather can be unpredictable.

November

5° / 0°

November is a cold month, with the first snowfall often occurring. It's a good time for indoor activities and early winter events.

December

1° / -4°

December is a festive month, with Christmas markets and lights. It's cold and snowy, so pack warm clothing and enjoy the winter wonderland.

Did you know?

Did you know that Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, located on the country's southern coast?

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