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Flights to Finland

Flights to Helsinki (HEL)

Finland’s stylish southern capital, Helsinki is shaped by rich history, vast forests and the invigorating icy waters of the Baltic Sea.
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Flights to Helsinki

A compact, walkable seaside capital, Helsinki offers a charming tapestry of both historical and modern architecture, backdropped by sensational natural beauty.

The city lies on Finland’s southern coast and features a spectacular archipelago of more than 300 islands. Central Helsinki offers fascinating cultural experiences, from world-class museums to bustling seafront marketplaces, while vast forests nearby provide an idyllic rural escape.

Begin your exploration of the city by admiring the cathedrals and churches that punctuate its skyline. Gaze up at the distinctive white facade and colossal green domes of Helsinki Cathedral, explore the intricately adorned interior of Uspenski Cathedral and marvel at the architectural genius that blends Temppeliaukio Church with solid rock.

Make time for the series of inspiring museums and galleries throughout the city too. Amos Rex is a striking contemporary art museum under the historic Lasipalatsi (glass palace) where you’ll be immersed in incredible digital installations and astounded byl arge-scale sculptural works. The Natural History Museum is equally impressive, showcasing Finnish forests, wetlands and ecosystems from around the world.

And Helsinki boasts further cultural hotspots, most notably the grandiose Senate Square that makes for a stunning photo backdrop. Wander through this open plaza - a fantastic example of neoclassical architecture – and spot the city’s most iconic buildings like the Government Palace and National Library. Kauppatori Market is another lively open-air hub where you can sample fresh Finnish produce in a scenic waterside setting.

But there’s no better way to truly experience the Baltic Sea than by submerging yourself in its icy embrace. Löyly, a world-class public sauna in the Hernesaari district makes this a more appealing prospect, allowing you to step out of the chilly waters and into traditional wood-heated rooms that afford breathtaking panoramic views.

Given Helsinki’s seaside location, boat trips are also a staple of its touristic appeal. Take the short ferry ride to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans across six islands. Stroll among its bastions, ramparts and tunnels as you learn how this stunning 18th-century structure has changed hands over the years.

Less than an hour from Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park makes for another unforgettable day trip. Wander through dense pine and spruce woods and breathe the freshest of air as you venture into the heart of Finland’s wilderness.

You can fuel your adventures with the many hearty Finnish dishes served throughout Helsinki, from the warming lohikeitto (salmon soup) and filling lihapullat (meatballs) to the more unique option of poronkaristys (sautéed reindeer).

 

Trip insipration

What to do in Helsinki

  • Allas Sea Pool

    Allas Sea Pool is a vibrant seaside complex where the city meets the crisp waters of the Baltic Sea, providing the unique opportunity to relax in a traditional Finnish sauna before a cooling dip in the open sea. Whether it's winter or summer, you can enjoy an atmospheric day as you swim in picturesque, heated pools or recline on a sprawling sun deck.

  • Old Market Hall

    A key culinary hotspot since the 19th century, Old Market Hall is Finland’s oldest covered marketplace and affords a fascinating glimpse of local culture. Head to this exquisite building right next to the Baltic Sea and experience its enchanting buzz as Finnish classics like fresh fish, cheeses and pastries are sold to locals and tourists alike.

  • Esplanadi Park

    Fondly referred to as ‘Espa’ by the locals, Esplanadi Park is a beautiful urban park that bubbles with life throughout the year. Stroll along its central promenade, flanked by lush greenery, to the tune of local musicians and street performers for a striking alternative to the city bustle. Keep an eye out for seasonal markets, concerts and artistic displays, all of which add to the park’s unique charm.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Flying to Helsinki

  • Helsinki is renowned for its eye-catching architecture, combining functionalist Nordic designs with stylish modern aesthetics and centuries-old structures. The city boasts a breathtaking seafront, a deeply ingrained sauna culture and staggering natural beauty on its outskirts, while its status as Finland’s capital makes it a prominent Scandinavian destination.

  • While it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Helsinki, sightings are very rare – potentially only once or twice a year.

    However, northern Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, with peak season from September to April.

    You can fly to Lapland, a region in northern Finland, from Helsinki in just over an hour, while there are also overnight trains that take around 13 hours. To drive, it will typically take more than 10 hours.

  • For warm weather and more sunlight, the best time to visit Helsinki is from May to September. These months see over 19 hours of daylight while temperatures in July can reach 30°C.

    However, the winter months from November to March hold a unique attraction, with the crisp, cold weather perfect for sauna visits. Temperatures drop below freezing during this period and snow is common, while there is often less than six hours of daylight during December.