Best Places to Visit in Helsinki in Two Days

While seeing the northernmost point of Europe may be the most rewarding experience a visitor can have, did you know that you can see a lot of Helsinki in just two days? Helsinki, Finland’s capital city, is surrounded by 315 islands and has a unique mix of historic architecture and museums on show. Despite the fact that Helsinki is the fourth-largest city in the Nordic countries, it preserves its natural balance despite the fact that it is home to 75 per cent of the country’s foreign corporations.

Once upon a time, in 1550 AD, King Gustav of Sweden established Helsinki. It has grown into one of Finland’s most attractive cities since then. The old architecture, on the other hand, was created by Johan Albrecht and Carl Ludwig, who converted a well-fortified trading station into an empirical town with their visionary ideas. So, what can you do in Helsinki in two days?

To begin with, nature, animals, old-world architecture, and rich island life abounds in Finland’s capital city. Lutheran Cathedrals and Russian-inspired culture may also be found in Helsinki. So, to get the most of your vacation, I recommend starting with a visit to the most famous sights and ending with a sea excursion. Here’s a list of eight intriguing places to visit in Helsinki that will offer you a firsthand look into the city.

Sibelius Monument and Park

Sibelius Monument in Helsinki

The Sibelius Monument, located in a lovely wooded park, is a memorial to Finnish musician Jean Sibelius, who passed away in 1957. This monument, called Passio Musicae, is located in Sibelius Park and was planned and created by Eila Hiltunen. Before its introduction in 1967, its state-of-the-art design provoked numerous arguments, but it was finally, welcomed as a part of the community. The monument resembles stylised organ pipes, a nod to the composer’s reputation for writing little music for organs. When I first saw the sequence of 600 hollow steel pipes welded together in a wave shape, I couldn’t stop staring at its musical arrangement.

Olympic Stadium

Helsinki Olympic Stadium

Next on your list should be the Helsinki Olympic Stadium, a World War II-era venue that has weathered the test of time. Toivo Jäntti and Yrjö Lindgren designed the architectural planning of this stadium in a functionalistic manner. The Helsinki Olympic Stadium opened in 1938 in preparation for the 1940 Summer Olympics. Most notably, the BBC has named it one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world. There’s a solid reason to put this on your bucket list. The stadium has been closed for renovations since March 2016 and will reopen only in 2019.

Finlandia Hall

Finlandia Hall Helsinki View

Finlandia Hall was built in 1971 by architect Alvar Aalto to serve as a platform for the world’s top economic and political leaders. In the heart of Helsinki, this multifunctional meeting space is also a convention and exhibition centre with music facilities. The versatility of this facility enables both huge international conferences and small-scale events to take place under one roof. It doesn’t matter if it’s for amusement or for public occasions. Thousands of people visit the City of Helsinki-owned building each year, making it a famous tourist destination.

 

Helsinki City Hall

Helsinki City Hall

Whatever European city you visit, a visit to its City Hall must undoubtedly be at the top of your tourist agenda. Every city hall is distinct, such as the one in Helsinki, which embodies the city’s administrative culture.

The Rock Church

Temppeliaukion Kirkko Church

Until I got the opportunity to visit Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki, I had never heard of a Rock Church. With over half a million visitors each year, this Lutheran church is one of Helsinki’s most popular tourist attractions. Temppeliaukio Church, which opened in 1969, is a structure constructed directly into solid rock, thus its current name. The interiors, which are not only carved into the rock but also, bathe in natural light, astound me. Temppeliaukio Church, with its copper dome roof and outstanding acoustics, is also a fantastic music venue. They claim that the rough, unworked rock surfaces are responsible for the unusual acoustic quality.

The Helsinki Parliament

Helsinki Parliament House

The Parliament House is the administrative seat of Finland, and it is located in Helsinki, Finland’s capital. Helsinki Parliament House, designed by Borg–Sirén–berg in the early 19th-century combines Neoclassicism with twentieth-century modernism. From the red Kalvola granite exteriors with 14-columns with Corinthian capitals to the grand plenary chamber, there’s a lot to see and do.

Helsinki Market Square

Helsinki Market Square

One of my favourite spots to visit in Helsinki was the market square. Its unusual selection of Finnish woollens, souvenirs, and seafood, however, is what makes it remarkable. The Baltic Sea lies on one side of this central area in Helsinki, while Katajanokka is on the other. Helsinki Market Square is bustling with activity all year, so don’t miss a visit to this harbour side arena while in Helsinki.

Helsinki Central Railway Station

Helsinki Central Railway

Last but not least, pay a visit to Helsinki Central, which has been named one of the most beautiful train stations in the world by the BBC. Every day, half a million commuters use HCS, which was built in the early nineteenth century. Regardless of whether you’re using the train or not, you must visit Helsinki Central to see its stunning architectural design.

It takes no more than two days to visit all of these sights. Aside from that, you may attempt unorthodox activities like hiking nature trails, shopping for second-hand clothing in a store, or going pub-hopping to experience Finnish nightlife. From Finnish islands to stadiums, parks, and ancient monuments; there are multiple prospects for you to discover. Sea oysters, herring, crayfish, Liver Patte, and Viili are some of the most popular Finnish specialities you must sample.

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One thought on “Best Places to Visit in Helsinki in Two Days

  1. I haven’t been there yet but would surely love to visit once. Will keep the places you mentioned in mind ?

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