Best Places To Travel In Helsinki-Uusimaa

1.Helsinki(Capital Of Finland)

Helsinki

Helsinki

Helsinki-Uusimaa is a vibrant and diverse region in southern Finland. It encompasses the capital city, Helsinki, and its surrounding areas. The region combines the cultural and economic hub of Helsinki with picturesque coastal towns, lush forests, and serene lakes. It’s known for its dynamic urban environment, historical landmarks, and beautiful archipelagos.

Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is a modern metropolis with a rich cultural scene. It features stunning architecture, including the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and the unique Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church). Helsinki offers a lively atmosphere with excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The city’s waterfront and nearby islands, such as Suomenlinna, add to its charm, making it a gateway to exploring both urban and natural beauty.

Best Months to Visit

  • Summer (June to August):

    • Best Time: June, July, and August are ideal for enjoying the warmest weather and long daylight hours. This is the peak tourist season, with numerous outdoor festivals, events, and activities. The midnight sun provides extended daylight, and the city’s outdoor cafes, parks, and waterfronts are particularly inviting.

  • Spring (May):

    • Best Time: May is a lovely time to visit as the weather begins to warm up and the city starts to bloom with flowers and greenery. It’s a great time for sightseeing before the summer rush, and you can enjoy longer days and fewer tourists.

  • Autumn (September to October):

    • Best Time: September and October offer milder temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. Early autumn can be particularly pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings.

  • Winter (November to March):

    • Best Time: December is a magical time to visit Helsinki with its festive Christmas markets, winter activities, and potential for snow. However, it can be cold and dark, with shorter daylight hours. January and February are also great for experiencing winter sports and the Finnish winter landscape, but be prepared for cold temperatures and limited daylight.

Open Days And Timing

  • Helsinki Cathedral:

    • Open: Daily.
    • Timing: Typically from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The cathedral may close earlier for services or special events.

  • Suomenlinna:

    • Open: Year-round.
    • Timing: The fortress is accessible 24/7, but museums and visitor centers within the site have specific hours:
      • Suomenlinna Visitor Center: Generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the peak season (May to September), with reduced hours in the off-season.

  • Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church):

    • Open: Daily.
    • Timing: Usually from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in the summer. It may be closed for services or private events.

  • Helsinki Art Museum (HAM):

    • Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
    • Timing: Typically from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

  • Ateneum Art Museum:

    • Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
    • Timing: Generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours on Wednesdays until 8:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

  • Helsinki Zoo (Kumpula Zoo):

    • Open: Year-round.
    • Timing: Generally from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in winter and extended hours in summer (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Hours may vary based on season and weather conditions.

  • Market Square (Kauppatori):

    • Open: Daily.
    • Timing: Market stalls typically operate from early morning until late afternoon, around 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some stalls may stay open longer, especially during the summer.

  • Helsinki City Museum:

    • Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
    • Timing: Usually from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Ticket 

  • Helsinki Cathedral:

    • Ticket Information: Entry is generally free, but there may be a small fee for guided tours or special events.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets for tours and events can be purchased on-site or through the cathedral’s official website.

  • Suomenlinna:

    • Ticket Information: Access to the island is free, but there are fees for some museums and attractions on the island.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets for museums and guided tours can be purchased at the Suomenlinna Visitor Center or through their websites.

  • Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church):

    • Ticket Information: A small entry fee is usually charged.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be bought at the entrance of the church.

  • Helsinki Art Museum (HAM):

    • Ticket Information: Admission fees apply, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the HAM website.

  • Ateneum Art Museum:

    • Ticket Information: Admission fees apply, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the Ateneum website.

  • Helsinki Zoo (Kumpula Zoo):

    • Ticket Information: Admission fees apply, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the zoo entrance.

  • Market Square (Kauppatori):

    • Ticket Information: No entry fee. Costs are for purchasing items from market stalls.
    • Where to Buy: Payments are made directly at the stalls.

  • Helsinki City Museum:

    • Ticket Information: Admission is typically free.
    • Where to Buy: No tickets are required for general entry; some special exhibitions might have a fee.

Near By Location

  • Espoo:

    • Nuuksio National Park: Offers beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and nature activities. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Helsinki.
    • Espoo Museum of Modern Art (EMMA): Features contemporary art exhibitions and is located in the WeeGee Exhibition Centre.

  • Vantaa:

    • Heureka Science Center: An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, located in Vantaa, approximately a 30-minute drive from Helsinki.
    • Aviapolis: A modern district with shopping, dining, and entertainment options, close to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.

  • Porvoo:

    • Old Town Porvoo: A charming town known for its well-preserved wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and historical ambiance. It’s about an hour’s drive from Helsinki.
    • Porvoo Cathedral: A historic cathedral with beautiful architecture and scenic views.

  • Tallinn, Estonia:

    • Tallinn Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with medieval architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant cultural experiences. A ferry ride from Helsinki takes about 2 hours.

  • Hämeenlinna:

    • Hämeenlinna Castle: A medieval castle with museums and historical exhibitions. Located about an hour and a half drive from Helsinki.
    • Aulanko Nature Reserve: Offers scenic trails, a nature tower, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Kruunuvuori:

    • Kruunuvuori Archipelago: A group of islands offering scenic views and nature trails, accessible via a short ferry ride or boat trip from Helsinki.

  • Tampere:

    • Tampere: Known for its industrial heritage, lakes, and cultural attractions. It’s about a 2-hour train ride from Helsinki.
    • Särkänniemi Amusement Park: Features rides, an aquarium, and a planetarium.

  • Lahti:

    • Lahti: A city known for its winter sports facilities, beautiful lakes, and cultural events. About an hour and a half drive from Helsinki.
    • Lahti Ski Museum: Focuses on the history of skiing and winter sports.

2.Lapland

Lapland

Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, renowned for its Arctic charm and natural wonders. It’s a winter wonderland famous for its northern lights, expansive snowy landscapes, and unique experiences like husky sledding and reindeer safaris. Visitors can explore Santa Claus Village, enjoy winter sports, and immerse themselves in the Sami culture.

Finland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including thousands of lakes, forests, and a beautiful archipelago. It offers a high quality of life, modern cities like Helsinki with vibrant cultural scenes, and a reputation for being one of the safest and happiest countries in the world. Finland is also celebrated for its rich design heritage, innovative technology, and a deep respect for nature.

Best Months to Visit

  • Winter Wonderland (December to February): If you’re interested in experiencing the quintessential snowy landscape, northern lights, and winter activities such as husky sledding and reindeer safaris, then these months are ideal. December, in particular, is popular for its festive atmosphere and the chance to meet Santa Claus.

  • Spring and Early Summer (March to June): This period offers a mix of snow and emerging greenery. March and April are great for snow-based activities, while May and June bring milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and the start of the midnight sun.

  • Summer (July to August): For those interested in the midnight sun, hiking, and enjoying the unique Arctic summer, this is the best time to visit. Temperatures are milder, and the landscape transforms into lush greenery, with long daylight hours perfect for outdoor activities.

  • Autumn (September to November): This season offers beautiful fall colors and the chance to see the northern lights as the nights get darker. September and October are particularly lovely for witnessing the changing colors of the landscape and enjoying fewer crowds.

Open Days And Timing

  • Santa Claus Village:

    • Open: Daily, year-round.
    • Timing: Typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but hours may vary depending on the season.

  • Husky and Reindeer Safaris:

    • Open: These tours operate year-round, with different activities available depending on the season.
    • Timing: Tours usually run multiple times a day, often starting in the morning and afternoon. Exact times can vary by operator.

  • Ski Resorts (e.g., Levi, Ylläs, Ruka):

    • Open: Generally open from late November to early May.
    • Timing: Ski lifts typically operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but evening skiing may be available in some resorts.

  • Arctic Icehotel (e.g., Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort):

    • Open: Year-round, but the ice igloos are generally available from late December to early April.
    • Timing: The resort usually has a reception open from early morning to late evening.

  • Museums (e.g., Sámi Museum Siida):

    • Open: Typically open daily from June to August and may have reduced hours or be closed during the off-season.
    • Timing: Commonly from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with variations by season.

  • National Parks (e.g., Urho Kekkonen National Park, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park):

    • Open: Year-round.
    • Timing: The parks are open 24/7, but visitor centers and facilities may have specific hours, usually from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the peak season.

Ticket

  • Santa Claus Village:

    • Ticket Information: Entry to the Santa Claus Village itself is free, but you might need to purchase tickets for specific activities like meeting Santa Claus, visiting the Santa Claus Post Office, or taking part in certain excursions.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be bought on-site or through the Santa Claus Village website.

  • Husky and Reindeer Safaris:

    • Ticket Information: Prices vary based on the duration and type of safari (e.g., short rides, full-day adventures). These usually include a guide, equipment, and sometimes refreshments.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased through local tour operators, visitor centers, or online booking platforms.

  • Ski Resorts:

    • Ticket Information: Lift passes and ski equipment rentals are available. Prices depend on the resort and the duration of the pass (e.g., half-day, full-day, multi-day).
    • Where to Buy: Lift passes can be bought online through the resort’s website, at the resort itself, or through local travel agencies.

  • Arctic Icehotel (e.g., Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort):

    • Ticket Information: Accommodation and activity packages can be purchased. Prices vary based on the type of room or igloo and the activities included.
    • Where to Buy: Bookings can be made through the resort’s website or travel agencies specializing in Arctic experiences.

  • Museums (e.g., Sámi Museum Siida):

    • Ticket Information: Entry fees vary by museum. Some offer discounts for children, students, and seniors.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can usually be purchased at the museum entrance or in advance through their websites.

  • National Parks:

    • Ticket Information: Most national parks in Finland do not have an entry fee, but certain activities or services (e.g., guided tours) may require payment.
    • Where to Buy: Information about fees for specific activities can be found on the park’s official website or visitor center.

Near By Location

  • Rovaniemi:

    • Santa Claus Village: Located in Rovaniemi, it’s a must-visit for a magical Arctic experience.
    • Arktikum Museum: A museum and science center showcasing Arctic and Finnish history and culture.
    • Ranua Wildlife Park: About an hour’s drive from Rovaniemi, it’s a great place to see Arctic animals in a natural setting.

  • Levi:

    • Ylläs: Around an hour’s drive from Levi, Ylläs offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and hiking trails.
    • Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: Known for its rugged beauty, this park is excellent for hiking and enjoying nature.

  • Kittilä:

    • Saariselkä: About an hour and a half from Kittilä, Saariselkä offers skiing, snowshoeing, and access to the Urho Kekkonen National Park.
    • Levi: Another nearby resort area with great winter sports and outdoor activities.

  • Inari:

    • Siida Museum: Located in Inari, it’s the Sámi Museum and Nature Center, offering insights into Sámi culture and the natural environment.
    • Lake Inari: Known for its stunning landscapes and opportunities for fishing and boating.

  • Utsjoki:

    • Hossa National Park: About a two-hour drive from Utsjoki, it’s known for its picturesque lakes and rock paintings.
    • Sámi Cultural Experiences: Explore Sámi culture and traditions in the Utsjoki area.

  • Ruka:

    • Kuusamo: About an hour’s drive from Ruka, Kuusamo offers beautiful nature, including lakes and forests, as well as activities like hiking and fishing.
    • Oulanka National Park: Known for its breathtaking landscapes and the Karhunkierros Trail, it’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

3.Southwest Finland

Turku

Turku is Finland’s oldest city, located on the southwest coast. It boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by landmarks like the medieval Turku Castle and the stunning Turku Cathedral. The city is also a gateway to the Turku Archipelago, a picturesque area with thousands of islands ideal for boating and exploration.

Southwest Finland is a diverse region known for its beautiful archipelago, charming historic towns, and cultural attractions. It encompasses cities like Turku, known for its historical significance and cultural activities, and Naantali, with its delightful Moomin World theme park and spa resorts. The Åland Islands, part of this region, offer scenic beauty and maritime heritage. Southwest Finland combines natural beauty with rich cultural experiences, making it a captivating area to explore.

Best Months to Visit

The best month to visit Southwest Finland depends on the experience you want:

  1. Summer (June to August):

    • Best Time: June, July, and August are ideal for enjoying warm weather, long daylight hours, and exploring the archipelago. This is the peak tourist season, with many festivals, outdoor activities, and attractions fully operational. July is particularly popular due to the pleasant weather and vibrant local events.

  2. Spring (May):

    • Best Time: May is a great time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and enjoy the beginning of warmer weather. The natural landscapes start to bloom, and it’s an excellent time for outdoor activities before the summer rush.

  3. Autumn (September):

    • Best Time: September offers beautiful fall colors and milder temperatures. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. The weather can still be pleasant for outdoor activities, especially in the early part of the month.

  4. Winter (December to February):

    • Best Time: If you enjoy winter activities and festive atmospheres, visiting in December can be charming, especially with Christmas markets and holiday events. However, the weather can be cold and snowy, so be prepared for winter conditions.

Open Days And Timing

  • Turku Attractions:

    • Turku Castle:

      • Open: Daily from May to September, and usually from Tuesday to Sunday during the rest of the year.
      • Timing: Typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (extended hours in summer).

    • Turku Cathedral:

      • Open: Daily.
      • Timing: Usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season).

    • Turku Archipelago:

      • Tours and boat services: Generally available from May to September. Schedules and timings vary depending on the specific service or tour operator.

  • Naantali:

    • Moomin World:

      • Open: Usually from mid-June to mid-August.
      • Timing: Typically from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

    • Naantali Spa:

      • Open: Year-round.
      • Timing: Spa facilities usually open from early morning to evening; check specific times for treatments and services.

  • Åland Islands:

    • Mariehamn:

      • Attractions: Many are open from May to September, with some seasonal variations.
      • Timing: Museum hours and other attractions typically run from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    • Åland Maritime Museum:

      • Open: May to September, and sometimes on weekends in the off-season.
      • Timing: Generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  • Salo:

    • Salo Art Museum:
      • Open: Typically from Tuesday to Sunday, with reduced hours in the off-season.
      • Timing: Usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

  • Rauma:

    • Old Rauma:

      • Open: Public areas are accessible year-round. Shops and restaurants have varying hours.

    • Rauma Maritime Museum:

      • Open: May to September.
      • Timing: Generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

  • Pori:

    • Yyteri Beach:

      • Open: Year-round.
      • Timing: Beach access is always open, but amenities like cafes and rental services are typically available from late spring to early autumn.

    • Pori Art Museum:

      • Open: Year-round, with some seasonal variations.
      • Timing: Usually from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Ticket

  • Turku Castle:

    • Ticket Information: Entry fees apply, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased on-site at the castle or in advance through their official website.

  • Moomin World (Naantali):

    • Ticket Information: Admission fees apply, with options for single-day tickets and family packages.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be bought online through the Moomin World website or at the entrance.

  • Åland Maritime Museum:

    • Ticket Information: Entry fees apply, with discounts for children and groups.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets are available at the museum entrance or can be pre-purchased online.

  • Salo Art Museum:

    • Ticket Information: Entry fees may apply; some exhibitions might have separate charges.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance.

  • Pori Art Museum:

    • Ticket Information: Entry is generally free, but special exhibitions may have a fee.
    • Where to Buy: No advance tickets are usually needed; entrance is available at the museum.

  • Yyteri Beach:

    • Ticket Information: Beach access is typically free, but amenities like rentals and cafes may have charges.
    • Where to Buy: Payments for services can be made on-site.

  • Turku Archipelago Tours:

    • Ticket Information: Prices vary based on the tour operator and the type of tour.
    • Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased through tour operators’ websites or at local tourist information centers.

Near By Location

  • Naantali:

    • Moomin World: A theme park based on the beloved Moomin characters.
    • Naantali Old Town: Known for its picturesque wooden houses and charming streets.
    • Väski Island: Accessible by boat from Naantali, offering beautiful nature and outdoor activities.

  • Turku Archipelago:

    • Korppoo: A picturesque island with charming village life and beautiful coastal scenery.
    • Helsingholm: A small island known for its historic lighthouse and scenic views.
    • Nagu: Offers lovely archipelago landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities.

  • Åland Islands:

    • Mariehamn: The capital of Åland with maritime museums and historical sites.
    • Eckerö: Known for its beautiful coastal landscapes and the Eckerö Post and Customs House Museum.
    • Kökar: A peaceful island ideal for hiking and exploring nature.

  • Rauma:

    • Old Rauma: A UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved wooden houses and historical charm.
    • Kustavi: A small town with scenic coastal views and opportunities for boating and fishing.

  • Salo:

    • Uskela: A small village with charming local architecture and a historical church.
    • Halikko: Known for its serene lakes and traditional Finnish countryside.

  • Pori:

    • Yyteri Beach: One of Finland’s most popular sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
    • Porin Taidemuseo: An art museum featuring contemporary and classical art exhibitions.
    • Eura: Known for its historical ironworks and the Eura Church.