helsinki - finland

I came to Helsinki by ferry from Tallinn, an easy 2 hour voyage and as it turns out a great way to mark the contrasts between the two places. You of course may come by plane or or or!! At first glance so totally different, you leave behind a UNESCO medieval city and arrive in what appears to be a modern city of Technology and Design, where east meets west.....however wander a little and find it isnt exactly so. A City with a laid back style, a great and varied history which steadily unfolds as you explore. The metro and bus services are excellent....even in the snow..... the wide roadways and walkways encourage you to walk, or perhaps hire that bike

Taster Tours

Take a leisurely stroll alongside the city shores to see the waterside and its many islands, as far as the eye can see. The sightseeing ferry from the Market Square will provide you with that different perspective. Island tours are also available from here, dependent upon your interest....Suomenlinna and it’s fortress maybe, which is  a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the more traditional area and close to the Old Market Square and Hall,  is the large red brick Upenski Eastern Orthodox Cathedral which welcomes visitors Parliament House and the Atheneum Contemporary and Finnish Art Museum., complete the picture. Close by is Senate Square the oldest part of Helsinki with Sederholm House the oldest building and the imposing Helsinki Cathedral standing proudly for all to see

Along the Central Avenue is the National Museum, full of information on the City’s historic past and culture . In contrast, the striking modern Helsinki Music Centre with its broad range of musical offerings, stands proudly near a great Park and lake which provides the opportunity to rest and contemplate,  before meandering  furthur along to the joys of the imposing Opera House. Helsinki is a City of Design.....a specific map will take you on a tour through the design district. One of the prettiest neighbourhoods with a mass of open studios and the opportunity to meet and chat with the local artists. The  City abounds with well laid out stores and boutiques of unique Clothing, Art, Homewares and Design Objects. It really is a pleasure to wander the well laid out streets and be inspired by all that lays before you.

Time to Linger

The Market Square runs along the harbour side, with a regular colourful market of traditional fare and local crafts. Boats dock alongside to unload their catch of fish to sell to patiently waiting customers. Whilst the atmospheric Old Market Hall serves an abundance of this fish in the form of tempting snacks and Finnish delacies....not to be missed. Yrjohnkatu is a well known 1920’s Swimming Hall, with separate days for men and women. The cafe has table service, the order brought directly to your poolside table. A fun experience, particularly on a cold day.  Saunas are a frequent pastime of the locals, well organised and with so many to choose from.....maybe the one based at your hotel is an easy first call option. Perfect between the end of the days sightseeing trip and that first pre dinner drink.

Kallio District has an array of boutiques, cafes and bars amongst this area of run down charm.The Market Square of Hakaniem has an array of food, jewellery and clothing , an exciting bar scene and an array of cuisines. Kruunuhaka and Eira are the districts in which to find interesting and classic vintage items. IITTALA is a wonderful showroom with a vast array of glass objects.....I dare you to come away empty handed. The City abounds with cafes and restaurants serving local and International cuisine of an extremely high standard, with smiles and great service...indulgence in wine will however demand that you dig deeper into those pockets.