How to Explore Helsinki with Helsinki Card

Are you planning a trip to Helsinki and want to make the most of your time there? Then the Helsinki Card is just what you need! This great value discount card offers you entry to multiple Helsinki attractions, free public transport, and other discounts that will help you make the most of your stay. Start planning your trip with this ultimate guide on how to use the Helsinki Card.

What is Helsinki Card?

The Helsinki Card is a discount card that offers you free entry to many of the top tourist attractions and museums in Helsinki. You can choose between the Helsinki Card CITY or the Helsinki Card REGION. The CITY card covers the inner city area while the REGION card covers a wider area including public transport to/from the Helsinki airport. You can buy the card for 24, 48, or 72 hours and enjoy the included benefits for the duration of your stay.

What’s Included with Helsinki Card?

The Helsinki Card CITY or REGION offers a range of benefits for visitors. Some of the most popular benefits include:

Free Entry to Top Attractions

With the Helsinki Card, you can enjoy free entry to many of the top tourist attractions in Helsinki. This includes the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki Zoo, Amos Rex Museum, Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum, Helsinki City Museum, and many more.

Free Use of Public Transport

One of the best things about the Helsinki Card is that it provides you with free public transport around the city. With the CITY card you can travel within Helsinki’s public transport zones A & B, and with the REGION card, you can travel in zones A, B & C which includes transport to and from Helsinki airport.

Bus and Boat Tours

The Helsinki Card also provides you with access to a range of bus and boat tours that allow you to explore the city and its surroundings. You can enjoy a free Panorama Sightseeing tour by bus (limited timetable) and a Hop-on Hop-off (HoHo) city sightseeing tour. You can also take a canal cruise or a scenic cruise along the coast.

Discounts on Tours, Meals, and Other Experiences

The Helsinki Card also offers discounts on tours, meals, and other experiences. You can enjoy discounts on bike tours, walking tours, boat tours, and more. You can also save money on meals at selected restaurants and cafes.

How to Use Helsinki Card?

Using the Helsinki Card is straightforward. Simply purchase the card for the duration of your stay, either online or in-person at one of the Helsinki tourist information offices. Once you have the card, it’s ready to use, and you can start exploring the city right away. To use the card, show it at the attraction or museum you want to visit, and you will be allowed free entry. You can also use your card to travel for free on public transport around the city, including buses, trams, and the metro. When using public transport, just show your card to the driver or scan it at the ticket reader. To use the bus and boat tours included with the card, simply show your card to the tour operator, and you will be allowed free or discounted entry, depending on the tour you wish to take.

Tips for Using Helsinki Card

To make the most of your Helsinki Card, here are some tips that will help you enjoy your stay:

Check Opening Hours

Before heading out to an attraction or museum, make sure to check its opening hours on the official website. Some museums and attractions may have limited opening hours, especially during public holidays or off-season.

Use Public Transport

Helsinki is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to travel a bit further afield or save time, using public transport is a great option. It’s easy to use, and you can access many parts of the city with it.

Plan Ahead

When planning your days in Helsinki, make sure to check which attractions you’d like to visit, and plan your itinerary accordingly. This will help you get the most out of your card and see all the sights you want to see.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, the Helsinki Card is an excellent way to save money on your trip to Helsinki. With free entry to top attractions, free public transport, and other discounts, it’s a great value for money. Whether you’re interested in museums, sightseeing, or just exploring the city at your own pace, the Helsinki Card has something for everyone. Book the tour here and make the most of your trip to Helsinki.

Helsinki City FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning a trip to Helsinki, Finland, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful city offers a unique blend of Scandinavian and Russian influences, resulting in a vibrant and distinct culture. To make the most of your visit, we’ve put together this helpful FAQ that covers everything from transportation to dining.

Getting to and Around Helsinki

1. What airport should I fly into?

Helsinki has one main airport, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), located about 17 km north of the city center. It is the largest airport in Finland and serves both domestic and international flights.

2. What are the best ways to get around Helsinki?

Helsinki has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metros. The most convenient way to get around the city is by purchasing a Helsinki Card, which gives you unlimited use of public transportation and also includes free admission to many museums and attractions.

3. Can I rent a car in Helsinki?

Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Helsinki. However, unless you plan on exploring the surrounding countryside, it may not be necessary. Traffic can be heavy in the city center, and parking can be expensive.

4. Are there taxis in Helsinki?

Yes, taxis are readily available in Helsinki. They are generally safe and reliable, although fares can be expensive. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also available in the city.

Accommodations in Helsinki

1. What are the best areas to stay in Helsinki?

The most popular areas to stay in Helsinki are the city center, Kamppi, and Punavuori. These neighborhoods offer easy access to public transportation, as well as many restaurants and shops.

2. What types of accommodations are available in Helsinki?

Helsinki offers a wide range of accommodations to suit any budget, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. There are also many apartment rentals available on platforms like Airbnb.

3. Is it safe to stay in Helsinki?

Yes, Helsinki is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

4. What is the typical cost of accommodations in Helsinki?

The cost of accommodations in Helsinki can vary greatly depending on the type of lodging you choose and the time of year you visit. Prices are generally higher during the summer months and around major events and holidays.

Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Helsinki?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Helsinki include the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Fortress, the Market Square, and the Ateneum Art Museum.

2. Are there any free attractions in Helsinki?

Yes, there are many free attractions in Helsinki, including many museums and galleries. The Helsinki City Museum and the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art are both free to enter.

3. Can I see the Northern Lights in Helsinki?

While it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Finland, Helsinki may not be the best place to do so. The city’s light pollution can make it difficult to see the aurora borealis. However, there are many tour companies that offer Northern Lights expeditions outside of the city.

4. What are some fun activities for families in Helsinki?

Families with children will enjoy visiting the Linnanmäki amusement park, the Helsinki Zoo, and the Finnish Science Centre. The city also has many parks and playgrounds.

Food and Drink in Helsinki

1. What is traditional Finnish food?

Traditional Finnish cuisine includes dishes like reindeer stew, smoked salmon, and meatballs with lingonberry sauce. Rye bread is also a staple of the Finnish diet.

2. Where can I find the best restaurants in Helsinki?

Helsinki has a thriving food scene, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Some of the most highly-rated restaurants in the city include Olo, Ask, and Grön.

3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Helsinki?

Yes, Helsinki has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, including Vegan Street, Yes Yes Yes, and Silvoplee.

4. What are some popular Finnish drinks?

Finnish people enjoy a wide variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, and beer. The most popular alcoholic beverage in Finland is vodka, and there are many Finnish brands to choose from.

Book Your Tour Now

Helsinki is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history and culture, trying new foods, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery, Helsinki is sure to exceed your expectations. With this FAQ, you’re now ready to plan a memorable trip to this stunning Finnish city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Helsinki

Helsinki is a charming city located in the southern part of Finland. The city offers a range of activities for tourists to explore and enjoy. From historical landmarks to modern architecture, there is something for everyone in Helsinki. If you’re planning a trip to Helsinki, this guide will help you spend your time wisely and make the most of your trip.

1. Visit Some of The Famous Landmarks

Some of the famous landmarks of Helsinki include the Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna fortress, and the Senate Square. Begin your tour of Helsinki by visiting the Helsinki Cathedral, a landmark with a stunning dome, which stands majestically on Senate Square. Next, head to Suomenlinna fortress, which is located on an island just outside the city. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 18th century and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the many museums, fortifications, and tunnels. Finally, on your visit to Helsinki, you must make time to visit the Senate Square. This iconic square surrounded by impressive architecture has been the center of Helsinki since the city’s foundation in 1640.

2. Explore the Design District

Explore the stylish and vibrant Design District, which is a neighborhood with more than 200 creative outlets. This is an excellent place to seek out unique boutiques, independent art galleries, and local handicraft shops. The Design District is the heart of Helsinki’s design scene, and it is an excellent spot for an evening stroll.

3. Visit Temppeliaukio Church

One of the famous attractions in Helsinki is the Temppeliaukio Church, located in the Töölö district. The church is also known as the Rock Church as it was built directly into the rock in the 1960s. The architectural design of the church is remarkable, and it is a unique experience to sit and listen to the music inside the church.

4. Visit the Open-Air Market

The open-air market is an excellent place for tourists to experience Finnish culture and buy local souvenirs. The market is located on the harbor’s edge and offers visitors the opportunity to see the daily catch of fish and Finnish delicacies. This market is a great spot for people-watching or enjoying a local Finnish meal.

5. Take a Walk in Esplanade Park

Esplanade Park is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s a beautiful park with lush greenery and a lake in the center. It’s an excellent place to take a walk, enjoy the surroundings, and grab a bite to eat. The park hosts a range of events during the summer months, including concerts and festivals.

6. Visit Helsinki Market Square

Helsinki Market Square is a bustling outdoor market located on the waterfront in front of the Presidential Palace. This market is open every day, and it sells fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and other Finnish specialties. Helsinki Market Square is an excellent place to stock up on essentials or to simply admire the beautiful Helsinki harbor.

7. Check Out The Sibelius Monument

The Sibelius Monument is a unique sculpture that was built to honor Jean Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer. The monument is comprised of hundreds of steel pipes that resemble organ pipes. Visitors can climb on and around this monument and take some memorable photos.

8. Take a Ferry to Nearby Islands

If you’re looking for a different kind of adventure during your trip to Helsinki, take a ferry to one of the nearby islands. You can take a ferry to Suomenlinna, the fortress island, or to the island of Seurasaari, which is known for its beautiful scenery. In conclusion, Helsinki is a city that has so much to offer visitors. With a mix of modern architecture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history, this Finnish city should be on everyone’s bucket list. Use this guide to help you plan your visit and make the most of your trip to Helsinki, Finland.