24 Hours In Helsinki - Helsinki Guide

24 hours in

Helsinki

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08:00-12:00 Valtteri Flea Market. Situated in historic warehouses in the Vallila district, Valtteri is the largest year-round indoor flea market in Finland. Aleksis Kiven katu 17, www.kirpputori.com

An authentic adventure, an alternative perspective what you might not find in any ordinary tourist guide

Luft. Take a break while shopping at the Valtteri flea market and enjoy a generous buffet breakfast at Luft. Luft is also a popular lunch café during the day and a regular club venue during evenings. You can easily sit here by yourself, as there are plenty of magazines to read, or you can watch the locals in this lively and bohemian district through the large glass windows. www.luft.fi Café Ekberg. The historic Café Ekberg is an idyllic establishment in which to enjoy morning coffee and buffet breakfast in the city centre. The outdoor terrace is a great place to greet the warm summer mornings. Bulevardi 9, www.cafeekberg.fi

Pamper, indulge and enjoy yourself luxury experiences with a little cream on top

Check out the latest trends, relax and live in the moment - don’t worry about tomorrow, because today never ends

Seurasaari & Tamminiemi cafés. Seurasaari Island is a beautiful place for a walk, and at the same time you can discover Finnish building traditions at the open-air museum. Villa Angelica and the Tamminiementie Café serve delicious pastries in romantic wooden villas. www.seurasaarisaatio.fi

Nolla. This restaurant hosts popular clubs on weekends and a reggae breakfast on Sundays from 11am to 3pm. Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 21 www.ravintolanolla.fi Tori. Enjoy breakfast at this popular local restaurant in the Punavuori district. You can also observe the local life while enjoying a glass of wine or cup of coffee. In summertime you can sit outdoors in the square. Punavuorenkatu 2 www.ravintolatori.fi

Hietaniemen uimaranta

Central Railway Station and Eliel. Prepare yourself for the action in Helsinki by enjoying morning coffee at the splendid Art Nouveau restaurant Eliel. The people rushing by on their way to work and study represent an interesting cross-section of the city’s residents. The Central Railway Station was designed by legendary Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen (1873-1950). Café Tin Tin Tango. This laid-back and continental café serves breakfast from morning to evening. You can even enjoy a sauna or do your laundry here! Töölöntorinkatu 7, www.tintintango.info Villa Angelica, Tamminiementie 3 Tamminiementie Café, Tamminiementie 8 www.villaangelica.fi

Restaurant Belly. Radio Helsinki and Belly host a breakfast club on Saturday mornings from 10am to 2pm. The restaurant also serves generous lunches, and in the evenings it features live music and clubs. Uudenmaankatu 16, www.belly.fi Design District, Design Museum and Design Forum Finland. The Design District is home to around 170 designer shops, galleries, studios and hotels. For contact

Sightseeing Tram 3T. An inexpensive and convenient way to see the city is to catch the Tram 3T as it makes a figure-of-eight loop between the Eira and Kallio districts. Many of Helsinki’s main sights and attractions lie along the route. For more information about public transportation, see www.hkl.fi. A special 3T brochure is available from Tourist Information.

information and an online map, visit the Design District website. www.designdistrict.fi The Design Museum presents the key phenomena in Finnish design. Korkeavuorenkatu 23 www.designmuseum.fi Design Forum Finland houses exhibitions and a shop where you can find a wide range of top Finnish design. Enjoy coffee and cakes in the Cake Gallery (Kakkugalleria). Erottajankatu 7, www.designforum.fi

Tourist ticket & city bikes. Helsinki City

Transport’s tourist ticket offers unlimited travel for 1, 3 or 5 days on all public transportation within Helsinki. Helsinki City Transport also offers free city bikes during the summer months. The lock opens with a two-euro deposit. City bike racks are located throughout the city centre, for example by the Market Square and at the Central Railway Station. Further information about public transportation: www.hkl.fi

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Market halls Hakaniemi Market Hall Hakaniemi Market and its redbrick market hall provide a real taste of the city at its most genuine with lots of stalls selling a wide range of foods and handicrafts. www.hakaniemenkauppahalli.fi Old Market Hall This historic market hall beside the Market Square in the city centre specialises in high-quality foods, from wild game to handmade chocolates. www.wanhakauppahalli.com

Hietalahti Flea Market. Hietalahti hosts a flea market throughout the year. Especially in summertime, ”Hietsu Flea Market” is the most popular open-air flea market in Helsinki. Old Town Rapids & Restaurants Helsinge and Koskenranta. Helsinki was originally founded in 1550 at the mouth of the Vantaanjoki river and only moved to deeper waters at its current location a hundred years later. The Old Town rapids are now a popular fishing and outdoor recreation spot. Enjoy the fresh air and then taste a bowl of delicious Finnish sal-

mon soup at one of the two local restaurants, Helsinge or Koskenranta. Helsinge, Viikintie 1E www.ravintolahelsinge.fi Koskenranta, Katariina Saksilaisen katu 9 www.koskenranta.com Tram 6, bus 68

World Village Festival. This popular festival promotes ethnic and ethical values with a programme that includes music, dance, theatre, children’s activities, exhibitions and exotic food. The World Village Festival will be held in 2009 from 23-24 May. Railway Station Square, Kaisaniemi Park, www.maailmakylassa.fi

Get to know local people and their homes. Stay with new friends! CouchSurfing is a network that lets you find accommodation in Finnish homes and make new friends. The community holds weekly meetings in Helsinki and arranges urban adventures to other cities. Other similar networks include the Hospitality Club, Global Freeloaders and BeWelcome. Another way to discover local culture is to enjoy a meal with a real Finnish family organised by Cosy Finland.

Ornamo O-gallery design market The Finnish Association of Designers Ornamo organises each year a Christmas fair where you can buy Finnish design products and handicrafts. Design Forum Finland Erottajankatu 7, www.ornamo.fi

Hietaniemi swimming beach. Enjoy a hot summer day at the popular ”Hietsu” swimming beach. Bus 55

Library 10. The flagship of the Helsinki City Library combines music and IT. You can even make practice and make your own music with the library’s own instruments and studio equipment. The library has numerous computer workstations, as well as a wireless network for laptop users. The library is open to all free of charge. Elielinaukio 2 G, www.lib.hel.fi/kirjasto10

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www.couchsurfing.com www.hospitalityclub.org www.globalfreeloaders.com www.bewelcome.org www.cosyfinland.com

Arabia Centre factory outlets. The Arabia Centre is situated by the historic Arabia porcelain factory and houses not only the Arabia factory shop and museum, but also Finlayson, Iittala, Opa and Pentik shops. Arabia Centre, Hämeentie 135, tram 6 Union Design & Make Your Own Piece of Jewellery. Union Design is a modern atelier workshop where you can watch goldsmiths and silversmiths at work. You can have your own piece of silver jewellery specially made or select from the Union Design’s collection. You can even make your own

Swimming throughout the year Swimming Stadium The Swimming Stadium offers outdoor swimming in a 50-metre pool from May to September in 25-degree water regardless of the weather. There are also a number of other smaller pools and diving platforms. Hammarskjöldintie 5 www.hel.fi/liikunta Winter swimming at Rastila Swimming in a hole that has been cut in the ice, or “avantouinti”, refreshes both the body and mind. The season at Rastila Camping extends from 1 October to 30 April. Rastila Camping, Karavaanikatu 4 www.hel.fi/rastila

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silver ring by participating in See Finland’s guided tour, which includes a visit to the workshop’s exhibition and a demonstration by goldsmiths. Eteläranta 14 (inner courtyard) www.uniondesign.fi, www.seefinland.fi

Vox Artis. If you see a cool haircut in one of the trendy bars in the Kallio district, it could be the work of Vox Artis. The hairdressing salon’s eye-catching window display reflects its unique creative style. Porthaninkatu 3, www.voxartis.fi

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12:00-16:00 Söderskär Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse is located in the magnificent archipelago and can be visited on tours in summer. Guests can even stay overnight. www.soderskar.fi. Herring Market. Each year in the first week of October fishermen tie up their boats at the Market Square to sell their pickled herring and other archipelago treats. The Herring Market is the oldest traditional event in Helsinki.

Marimekko. Marimekko is a legend in Finnish design. Its boutiques sell eg. clothing, fabrics, textiles and bags.

Impuls. Impuls offers exclusive hairdressing, make-up and styling services that Finnish fashion magazines love! Iso Roobertinkatu 40, www.impuls.fi Leftfoot Company. Have a pair of shoes made to order according to your precise foot measurements. Leftfoot Company scans your foot and inputs your data into its system, after which you can make subsequent orders easily over the internet. Men’s shoes only, however. Stockmann department store, men’s footwear, 2nd floor, Aleksanterinkatu 52 Eteläesplanadi 8, www.leftfootcompany.com Seppälä. Finland’s answer to H&M and Mango sells affordable street fashion. Keskuskatu 1 B Kluuvi Shopping Centre, Aleksanterinkatu 9 Forum Shopping Centre, Mannerheimintie 20 www.seppala.fi Motel Momentos. This boutique sells casual clothes for women and men designed by Sanni Väätäinen, including t-shirts and dresses. Annankatu 13 www.motelmomentos.com

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www.marimekko.fi Kämp Galleria, Pohjoisesplanadi 31and 2 Kamppi Shopping Centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1 Outlet, Hakaniemi Market Hall & Herttoniemi, Kirvesmiehenkatu 7

Nanso Store. Nanso sells feminine clothes and accessories by young designers, including colourful wooden beads by Kapris Design. Mikonkatu 2, www.nanso.fi

Lasikammari. Lasikammari specialises in glass tableware and art glass, including products by Iittala, Nuutajärvi and Riihimäen Lasi that are no longer in production. Most of the items are Solo for men. Solo dresses the most stylish men in Helsinki in top-quality European brands. Solo Freda, Fredrikinkatu 24 Solo Ateneum, Ateneuminkuja Solo Xtra (outlet), Bulevardi 1 www.soloshop.fi Day Spas. Helsinki’s exclusive day spas refresh your body and mind. Escape Day Spa Sokos Hotel Torni, Yrjönkatu 28, www.escapedayspa.fi Helsinki Day Spa, Erottajankatu 4, www.dayspa.fi Palace Kämp Day Spa, Kluuvikatu 4, www.palacekampdayspa.fi

Helsinki 10. A popular boutique among trendy young Finns, Helsinki 10 sells the latest fashion brands, music, shoes and magazines, as well as specially selected vintage clothing. Eerikinkatu 3, www.helsinki10.fi Bisquit Stash. Bisquit Stash sells street fashion and also houses a gallery. Pursimiehenkatu 3 www.bisquitstash.com

Salmiakki. Salmiakki is the most popular candy in Finland. There are many varieties of this salty liquorice, including salmiak schnapps!

second-hand, but the shop also sells new products in its original packaging, as well as factory prototypes. Liisankatu 9, www. lasikammari.fi

Limbo Boutique. ”Girls just wanna have fun” is the motto behind Limbo’s clothing and accessories. The bold and brash items designed by Riikka Lassila and Heini Lindström have delighted customers for over 10 years. Annankatu 13, www.limbo.fi

Secco Shop. Secco sells recycled design at its most inventive. The assortment includes clothing, jewellery and accessories made from everything from car tyres to computer parts. Fredrikinkatu 33, www.seccoshop.com

Life, and Story of the Bones. Visitors can also dive beneath the surface of the Baltic Sea and marvel at the collection of bones and magnificent dinosaurs. Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 www.fmnh.helsinki.fi

Ateneum Art Museum. Ateneum is the

Pihlajasaari Island. Sunbathe on the

National Gallery of Finland and houses the country’s largest art collection. The building itself is an architectural gem. Kaivokatu 2, www.ateneum.fi

hot rocks and take a dip in the refreshing sea. This popular recreational island also has a kiosk and café-restaurant, as well as a separate naturist beach. Take the ferry from Merisatamanranta beside Café Carusel, which operates every half-hour during peak season. Alternatively, take the ferry from Ruoholahti departing every

Mereija. Mereija sells ecological and esthetic clothing and accessories made from recycled materials. Mannerheimintie 56, www.mereija.fi

Natural History Museum. The museum presents nature as a series of stories in the exhibitions Finnish Nature, History of

Fennofolk & IVANAhelsinki. Fennofolk is a unique Finnish style that draws its influences from Scandinavian linearity, Slavic intricacy and Finnish folklore. IVANAhelsinki is Paola Suhonen’s own brand. Her nostalgic patterns have attracted a lot of international attention. IVANAhelsinki Concept Store, Uudenmaankatu 15, www.ivanahelsinki.com

Copterline. Fly by helicopter to Tallinn, the medieval and high-tech capital of Estonia, in just 20 minutes. Have lunch or coffee and then fly back again! www.copterline.com

Formverk. Formverk sells interior decorating items by famous Finnish and international designers. Annankatu 5, www.formverk.fi

Eläintarha Skateboard Park, Micropolis Put your skateboarding skills to the test in the concrete pool or one of the other tracks. Eläintarha, Nordenskiöldinkatu

Wunder. Wunder is a dream for trendconscious young people. In addition to products by Finnish designers, the boutique sells the newest European brands. You can also buy vinyl here. Laivurinrinne 1 www.myspace.com/wundershop

La Société du Cochon. This bar, brasserie, café and bakery complex in the city centre on Mannerheimintie combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with delicious food made from pure Finnish ingredients. The café and bakery serves fresh pastries from 8 in the morning! Mannerheiminitie 14, www.cochon.fi

Kitsch. True to its name, this boutique caters to people who love everything kitsch. Kalevankatu 13, www.kitsch.fi

Artek. The multitalented Alvar Aalto was not only a legendary architect but also a designer whose creations are still extremely popular in Finland and sought-after the world over. A visit to Artek is a must for anyone interested in interior decorating. Eteläesplanadi 18, www.artek.fi Chjoko. A chocolate lover’s paradise, this bistro and shop also has a separate lounge where chocolate tasting and dessert courses are offered. Liisankatu 9, www.chjoko.com

Morticia. Morticia sells bold and brash clothing, footwear and accessories for Goths. Kamppi Shopping Centre, 5th floor, Urho Kekkosen katu 1 www.morticia.com Record shops on Viiskulma. Viiskulma, the “Five Corners” in the Punavuori district, has become famous for its record shops. This is a great place to find rare vinyls to bring home with you! You can also pop into the shops and ask for tips about gigs and nightlife.

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hour. The terrace at Café Carusel is a perfect spot to enjoy a drink and watch the boats sail by. www.pihlajasaari.net www.carusel.fi

Second hand shops

Penny Lane. Find vintage gems, such as cocktail and evening dresses, as well as pin-up skirts and pumps from the 1950s. The nostalgic interior captures the perfect atmosphere. Runeberginkatu 37 www.pennylane.fi Play It Again Sam. This boutique is specialised in vintage clothing dating back as far as the 1800s! Rauhankatu 2 Ruutu-Rouva. Ruutu-Rouva offers quality clothing and accessories, from top

Nina’s. This exclusive fashion boutique sells shoes, bags and clothing by top international brands, as well as the creations of Paris-based Finnish designer Jasmin Santanen. Bulevardi 13, www.ninas.fi Lux Shop. Lux Shop sells Finnish and international design, and the shop’s window displays design exhibitions. Uudenmaankatu 26, www.lux-shop.fi

Digelius Laivurinrinne 2, www.digelius.com Eronen Laivurinrinne 2, www.dubjazzsalsa.com Lifesaver Laivurinkatu 41, www.lifesaver.net Popparin enkeli Fredrikinkatu 12, www.popangel.fi

Close to Viiskulma you can also find Stupido-Shop, which advertises itself as simply the best record shop in Finland. Iso Roobertinkatu 23, www.stupido.fi

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design names to Finnish national costumes, with extremely friendly and knowledgeable service. Fredrikinkatu 16

Töölönlahti Bay & the Café in the Blue Villa. Töölönlahti Bay is a diverse recreational area in the heart of the city where local residents walk, jog and meet with friends for picnics on warm summer evenings. The shoreline is home to the Finnish National Opera, Finlandia Hall and the City Winter Garden. The café in the blue villa in Linnunlaulu district is famous for its tasty cranberry juice, and the terrace offers a splendid view over the bay. Sinisen huvilan kahvila, Linnunlauluntie 11

Hanna Sarén. Finnish fashion designer Hanna Sarén has created an international reputation with her sensual clothing. Her boutique on Fredrikinkatu sells women’s and men’s clothing, as well as shoes and bags. Fredrikinkatu 45, www.hannasaren.com Lumi on 14. Lumi on 14 is a concept store that selects Finnish and international fashion brands for their avantgarde product positioning and design. Lumi itself is famous for making beauti-

Hundpark. Founded by young designers to promote their own creations, this boutique sells items that you won’t find back home – at least not yet! Iso Roobertinkatu 17–19 www.hundpark.net Union Five. Union Five sells clothing and equipment for skateboarders and snowboarders, including the very latest street fashion. Kamppi Shopping Centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1, 5th floor www.unionfive.fi

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Laterna Magica. Laterna Magica takes you on a voyage through time from Checkov’s Russia to the world of blackand-white film to experimental contemporary art. The antiquarian bookshop specialises in Russian classics, as well as art books related to film and photography. The unique atmosphere in the basement gallery adds to the power of the art on display. Rauhankatu 7, www.laterna.net Sirinä-Design. This boutique sells ecological and ethical clothing, scarves, bags, tablecloths, decorative pillows and wall textiles. Mariankatu 15, www.sirina-design.fi

Wanha Kaarle. This friendly boutique specialises in practical and design objects from the 1950s to the 1970s, including plastic goods, toys and lighting – and lots of other colourful objects! Kaarlenkatu 12, www.wanhakaarle.com

Cathedral steps. Rest your feet! Do as the locals do and sit down on the steps of Helsinki Cathedral. Soak up the sun as you watch the hustle and bustle of the city below you. Helsinki Cathedral, Senate Square

Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall. Enjoy an

Hietaniemi Cemetery. An afternoon walk through the cemetery may sound macabre, but not in Helsinki. Hietaniemi Cemetery is incredibly beautiful and peaceful, and it’s also full of life in the form of friendly squirrels and small birds. A number of famous Finnish artists are buried in the old cemetery along lot 21a, in-

unforgettable swim in the classic surroundings of the oldest public swimming hall in Scandinavia. Afterwards try a traditional wood or steam sauna. You can even swim naked – there are separate days for men and women. Yrjönkatu 21 B www.hel.fi/liikunta

Tiia Vanhatapio Couture Noir. Tiia Vanhatapio’s femme fatale creations are even worn by international burlesque star Dita von Teese, but she also has an adorable babywear collection. Laivurinkatu 43, www.vanhatapio.fi

Café Piper, Suomenlinna. This cosy summer café is situated in an English garden on one of the islands that make up the magnificent Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress. Enjoy a cup of coffee while admiring the spectacular scenery. The ferry crossing from the Market Square to Suomenlinna takes just 15 minutes. www.suomenlinna.fi www.suomenlinnatours.com

Minna Parikka. Minna Parikka designs charmingly feminine shoes that are both sweet and aggressive. Bulevardi 24, www.minnaparikka.com

House of Björnberg. The atelier-boutique of Emelie Björnberg features classic tailcoats and dresses inspired by the Victorian era. Tehtaankatu 13

ful leather products, such as handbags and wallets. Pursimiehenkatu 14, www.lumion14.com

Kamppi Shopping Centre & Tennis Palace. Kamppi is not only the newest shopping centre in Helsinki, but also the main bus terminal. Narinkkatori Square hosts a wide range of urban events. The Tennis Palace houses Finnkino cinemas, the Art Museum Tennis Palace and the Museum of Cultures, as well as restaurants and shops.

Finnkino, www.finnkino.fi Tennis Palace Art Museum, www.taidemuseo.fi Museum of Cultures, www.kulttuurienmuseo.fi

Aero. Aero sells Finnish and international design classics, including both new and vintage products. Sit in one of Eero Aarnio’s legendary chairs while checking out the cool furniture, lighting fixtures and accessories. Yrjönkatu 8, www.aerodesignfurniture.fi Nokia Flagship Store. Try out all of the latest Nokia mobile phones at the Finnish company’s own flagship store. Aleksanterinkatu 46

Linnanmäki Amusement Park. Enjoy the exciting carnival atmosphere and cotton candy at Linnanmäki. The rotating observation tower offers a bird’s eye view over the city. Admission to the amusement park and observation tower is free of charge. www.linnanmaki.fi Verkkokauppa.com Verkkokauppa. com offers a great range of electronics both online and at its retail shop, which offers friendly service in a youthful atmosphere. Ruoholahti Shopping Centre, Itämerenkatu 21 www.verkkokauppa.com

cluding authors, composers, painters and actors. You can enter the cemetery from all sides, including from Lapinlahdentie and Mechelininkatu.

Suomenlinna. Suomenlinna is not only a historic maritime fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also a lively residential district. Enjoy a pint of local beer and archipelago food at the Suomenlinna Brewery Restaurant. You can explore the tunnels and bastion walls of the fortress by yourself or with a guided walking tour. The handy ferry crossing from the Market Square to Suomenlinna takes just 15 minutes.

Runeberg cakes & Café Kafka. If you are visiting Helsinki in February, you must taste the unique cake named after the national poet of Finland Johan Ludvig Runeberg (1804-1877). These sweet cakes are made from almonds, rum and arrack liqueur topped with raspberry jam. A great place to enjoy Runeberg cakes is Café Kafka on the ground floor of Svenska Teatern (Swedish Theatre). Pohjoisesplanadi 2

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www.suomenlinna.fi www.suomenlinnatours.com www.panimo.com

Lumene. Lumene combines modern science with traditional Finnish knowledge to create unique cosmetics whose active ingredients, such as berry seed oils, come from Finland’s Arctic nature. Sold at departmentstores. www.lumene.fi

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16:00-20:00 Sinebrychoff Park & Bar Fanny. The

Korjaamo Culture Factory. The Kor-

”Koff Park” serves as the backyard of local residents in summertime and is a great sledding hill in wintertime. In the park the restaurant-café Fanny hosts clubs in the evening. You can enter the park from Bulevardi. Fanny, Bulevardi 40 www.goestohollywood.fi

jaamo Culture Factory produces and hosts exhibitions, theatre performances, clubs and many other events. The popular Korjaamo Café has the best salad bar in town. In the evening you can relax at the Korjaamo Bar, where DJs spin the tunes on weekends. Töölönkatu 51 B, www.korjaamo.fi

Orion Cinema. Arguably the most beautiful cinema in Helsinki, Orion screens classic films and independent productions in their original languages. The original seats are perhaps the most comfortable you will ever sit in! Eerikinkatu 15, www.kava.fi/esitykset Kamppi Bowling Centre. This stylish bowling hall and bar is a great place to relax and have fun with friends. Kamppi Shopping Centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1, 4th floor www.varaarata.com Iittala. Iittala is one of the great names in Finnish design. Its products include classic glassware, as well as a wide range of fresh new products. The company’s flagship store on Pohjoisesplanadi also sells Arabia products. www.iittala.fi

Myymälä2. This boutique and gallery sells and exhibits products by young designers. Uudenmaankatu 23 www.myymala2.com SpåraKoff pub tram. Jump on this unique pub tram and enjoy the sights while sipping a beer. SpåraKoff can be caught at tram stops (eg. Market Square or Railway Square) between May and August. Kiasma & skateboarders. The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is a work of art in itself that was designed by

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Pohjoisesplanadi 25 Forum Shopping Centre, Mannerheimintie 20 Kamppi Shopping Centre, ground floor, Urho Kekkosen katu 1

Kämp Galleria. This highbrow shopping arcade in the city centre houses over 60 boutiques. Favourites include the Tarsala Creation designer shoe shop and the Moomin Shop. Kluuvikatu 4, entrance also from Mikonkatu, Aleksanterinkatu and Pohjoisesplanadi www.kampgalleria.fi

American architect Steven Holl. In addition to exhibitions, the building houses the Kiasma Theatre, a café and a bookshop. Kiasma’s summer terrace is among the best in town. The museum’s courtyard is popular hangout among skateboarders. Mannerheiminaukio 2, www.kiasma.fi

Terraces along Mikonkatu & On the Rocks. In summertime Mikonkatu street is packed with outdoor terraces. When the evening cools down you can move indoors at one of the many local bars. On the Rocks is a popular venue for live rock music. www.ontherocks.fi

Kallio & Bear Park Café. A few decades ago the bohemian Kallio district of Helsinki had somewhat of a ”sinful” reputation, but these days it houses many students and artists. Both the Theatre Academy of Finland and the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts are situated in Kallio. Bear Park Café (open from April to September) in Karhupuisto Park is a great place to start your tour of the district. www.bearparkcafe.net

Tero Saarinen Company. The internationally renown Tero Saarinen Company uses the language of dance to investigate, promote and communicate a humane worldview and basic human values. Performances are held in the beautiful and historic Alexander Theatre in August and September. www.terosaarinen.com Alexander Theatre, Bulevardi 23-27, www.aleksanterinteatteri.fi

May Day celebrations. Helsinki is one big

party town on the evening before May Day and the following morning. “Vappu” marks the true arrival of spring, and the streets are filled with a real carnival atmosphere. At 6pm on the last day of April students give the Havis Amanda statue a wash and present her with a student hat. The celebrations continue through the night and into the next morning, when people gather in the city’s parks at Kaivopuisto, Ullanlinnanmäki and Kaisaniemi for a picnic brunch and more champagne!

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Kotiharju Sauna. Kotiharju Sauna in Kallio is Helsinki’s last totally wood-heated public sauna. A traditional washing lady and masseuse can be reserved in advance. Harjutorinkatu 1 www.kotiharjunsauna.fi Helsinki International Film Festival, Love&Anarchy. Love&Anarchy is for many the biggest event of the autumn, offering a counterbalance and alternatives to Hollywood mass productions. In 2009 the film festival will take place from 17-27 September. www.hiff.fi

Ateljee Bar. Enjoy a drink high above the city’s rooftops with spectacular views that purportedly stretch as far as Tallinn on a very clear day. An ice-cold strawberry margarita is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day. Sokos Hotel Torni, Yrjönkatu 5 Michelin-star restaurants. The following restaurants in Helsinki are listed in the Michelin Guide. Chez Dominique** aims to create new innovations based on Nordic and French flavours. Rikhardinkatu 4, www.chezdominique.fi

Old Church Park. This park in the centre of town is popular for picnics and lying on the grass. The park also has an interesting history. Back in the 18th century people who died from the plague were buried here! Kallio artificial skating rink. ”Brahen kenttä” is a popular sports ground in the Kallio district. In the wintertime it boasts a large skating rink, where you can rent skates and enjoy the crisp air. Helsinginkatu 23, www.hel.fi/liikunta

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Restaurant Salve. Generous portions and a lively atmosphere have been the secret to the popularity of this ”sailors’ bar” since the 19th century. Hietalahdenranta 11

Restaurant Kosmos. This legendary artist restaurant offers “Helsinki cuisine” – a tasty fusion of Eastern and Western flavours made from Finnish ingredients. Kalevankatu 3, www.ravintolakosmos.fi

Restaurant Saslik. Enjoy traditional Russian cuisine in a romantic Tzarist-era atmosphere. The drinks list also features many Russian specialties. Neitsytpolku 12, www.saslik.fi

Restaurant Seahorse. The traditional Finnish menu and atmosphere make this popular local establishment an absolute must for visitors to the city. Try the fried herring with mashed potatoes! Kapteeninkatu 11 www.seahorse.fi

Restaurant Elite. For decades this restaurant has served as a popular hangout for artists and other cultural figures. Eteläinen Hesperiankatu 22 www.royalravintolat.com

Restaurant Savu & Tervasaari Island. Savu may be the only restaurant in the world that smokes every dish on the menu. You can even order simply pancakes. Tervasaari is a popular picnic and sunbathing island that is situated just a short walk from the city centre. Tervasaari, www.asrestaurants.com

Demo* serves guests high-class food combined with personal and friendly service. Uudenmaankatu 9-11, www. restaurantdemo.fi Carma’s* attractive atmosphere comes from international design objects and friendly personnel serving cuisine made from Finnish ingredients. Ludviginkatu 3-5, www.carma.fi Postres* offers exquisite cuisine that culminates with dessert. You can skip the starters and main courses and order simply from the dessert menu. Eteläesplanadi 8, www.postres.fi

Kitchen Kokka – cooking courses for learning and pleasure. The Restaurant

Helsinki Festival & Huvila Festival Tent

Kaivopuisto & Restaurant Kaivohuone & Café Ursula. Kaivopuisto is a beau-

Nokka offers fun cooking courses for groups in its special training kitchen. The themes vary according to the season, and courses can also be tailored individually. Learning to cook from professionals is a great skill that will delight your friends and family – surprise them with a gourmet dinner of crayfish or wild game! Kanavaranta 7 www.royalravintolat.com/kokka

The largest arts festival in Finland is organised annually in late summer, offering a vast range of events from top-of-theline concerts to experimental performance art – and everything in between! The Huvila Festival Tent hosts the biggest stars whose styles range from world music to pop. www.helsinginjuhlaviikot.fi

tiful residential and embassy district, as well as one of the oldest and most popular parks in Helsinki. Kaivohuone opened back in 1838 and remains a popular place to dine, party and be seen especially in summer. Ursula is a cosy café beside the sea. Kaivohuone, Iso Puistotie 1 www.kaivohuone.fi Café Ursula, Ehrenströmintie 3 www.ursula.fi

Icepark skating rink. This skating rink is located in the very heart of the city next to the Central Railway Station. Here you can skate while admiring the surrounding buildings, or alternatively enjoy warm drinks and snacks while watching others do the skating. Open Nov.-March. www.jaapuisto.fi

Finnish Ice Hockey League matches. Helsinki has two local ice hockey teams playing in the national league: HIFK and Jokerit. The rivalry is huge and their games always exciting. HIFK plays its home Jäähalli Ice Hall, while games at the Hartwall Arena. Jokerit play at Jäähalli, Nordenskiöldinkatu 11–13 www.helsinginjaahalli.fi and www.hifk.fi Hartwall Arena, Areenankuja 1 www.hartwall-areena.com and www.jokerit.com

Hurjaruuth’s Winter Circus. The Dance Theatre Hurjaruuth’s magical winter circus is a favourite among all children and childlike. Performances are held from November to January at the Cable Factory. Hurjaruuth Dance Theatre Kaapelitehdas, Pannuhalli, Tallberginkatu 1 A, www.hurjaruuth.fi

Lasipalatsi & Mbar. Lasipalatsi is a public living room in the centre of town that houses shops, a restaurant, cafés and bars, including Mbar, a popular café in the daytime and club in the evenings with music by local DJs. Mannerheimintie 22–24 www.lasipalatsi.fi, www.mbar.fi

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20:00-24:00 Flow Festival. This festival presents the latest phenomena in indie and rhythm music and will be held in 2009 from 1416 August. www.flowfestival.com

Juttutupa. Juttutupa offers great beer, food and live music in a laid-back atmosphere. Even Lenin himself used to spend time here. Säästöpankinranta 6 www.juttutupa.com

Porvoonkadun Baari. Young adults have made this bar their living room in the Alppila district. Porvoonkatu 19

Café Engel & Kino Engel & Kesäkino Engel. Café Engel is a popular café opposite the Senate Square where you can enjoy a coffee or drink before or after a night out at the movies. Aleksanterinkatu 26 www.cafeengel.fi The small Kino Engel screens art films. The Helsinki City Museum presents free-ofcharge films about Helsinki at Kino Engel every day. Kesäkino Engel screens films in the courtyard throughout the summer. Sofiankatu 4, www.cinemamondo.fi www.helsinginkaupunginmuseo.fi

Toveri. This sympathetic establishment maintains the unhurried atmosphere of days gone by. The restaurant is situated near the Helsinki City Theatre and attracts a lot of theatre lovers. Castreninkatu 3

Bali Hai. Enjoy the local atmosphere and reasonably priced dishes in a bright and cheery interior. Iso Roobertinkatu 35–37 Island restaurants. Enjoying dinner and a drink on one of the many islands off the coast of Helsinki is an essential part Boathouse has a of the summer. fine terrace from where you can watch NJK serves the waves hit the rocks. great crayfish at the end of the summer. Särkänlinna is a historic fortress that Klippan offers lots of atmosphere. serves Scandinavian archipelago cuisine Saari is in an iconic wooden villa. the archetypal island restaurant where you can enjoy delicious Finnish fish and meat dishes. Boathouse, Liuskasaari,

We Are Helsinki. Before hitting the bars, check out the “We Are Helsinki” magazine or website and find out what’s happening in town. The magazine is available e.g. from Tourist Information. www.we-are.fi URB Festival. This annual event presents the makers of urban culture and art from Finland and abroad. www.urb.fi

Erottaja Bar. This bar attracts the trendiest people in town, including musicians, designers and architects. Erottajankatu 15–17, www.erottajabar.com

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www.palacekamp.fi NJK, Valkosaari, www.royalravintolat.com/njk Särkänlinna, Särkkä, www.palacekamp.fi Klippan, Luoto, www.palacekamp.fi Saari, Sirpalesaari, www.asrestaurants.com

Restaurant Kuurna. Kuurna is a small intimate restaurant in the historic Kruununhaka district of Helsinki that satisfies even demanding tastes. Meritullinkatu 6, www.kuurna.fi

Other island restaurants:

intimate and cosy restaurant for people who like simple high-quality food. The stylish bar is a great place to enjoy drinks before or after dinner. Ludviginkatu 10, www.grotesk.fi

Restaurant Bar Grotesk. Grotesk is an

Uunisaari, www.uunisaari.com Walhalla, Suomenlinna, www.restaurantwalhalla.com Ravintola Pihlajasaari/Villa Hällebo, Pihlajasaari, www.pihlajasaari.net Seurasaari, www.ravintolakaisaniemi.fi/ Seurasaari/seuras

Sports Academy. Sports Academy claims to be the leading sports-theme restaurant in Scandinavia. Altogether 59 plasma screens and 6 giant screens guarantee that you and your friends get the best front-row seats at games and sports events. You can even watch all the action through the one-way window in the TV sauna! Kaivokatu 8 www.sportsacademy.fi

We Got Beef. “Beef” is the favourite hangout for young adults in the city centre, attracting trendy party people especially on weekends. Iso Roobertinkatu 21 www.wegotbeef.fi Karaoke taxi. Kick off the evening with a song, or just cruise through town in this unique karaoke taxi. Tel. 040 500 6070, www.karaoketaxi.fi

Soul Kitchen. This restaurant offers soul food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. In addition to international

dishes, the menu also features traditional Finnish foods. Fleminginkatu 26–28, www.soulkitchen.fi

Café Bar 9. Relax and enjoy a tasty yet inexpensive lunch or dinner, or just grab a drink and listen to the talk of the town. New art is displayed on the walls each month. Uudenmaankatu 9, www.bar9.net Hola. This retro café and lounge bar can be found on the busy Helsinginkatu, “Helsinki Street”. Hola also hosts club evenings. Helsinginkatu 13

Corona & Kafe Moskova & Dubrovnik. Legendary Finnish movie directors Aki and Mika Kaurismäki have their own three-restaurant complex that includes the billiards bar Corona, the tiny Brezhnev-era bar Kafe Moskova, and the nightclub Dubrovnik. Eerikinkatu 11, www.andorra.fi

A21 Cocktail Lounge. Enjoy your favourite cocktails in a stylish setting. Ring the doorbell to get in! Annankatu 21, www.a21.fi Arctic Icebar. The temperature in the exotic icebar is kept to a cool –5C, but the atmosphere is always hot! Guests are given a warm cape and gloves to wear. Yliopistonkatu 5 (entrance from restaurant La Bodega) www.arcticicebar.fi

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Mecca. This highbrow restaurant also has two lounge bars with live music on some evenings. Korkeavuorenkatu 34 www.palacekamp.fi

Beatroot. This refreshingly messy bar charms visitors with its down to earth appeal. DJs play music at night. Iso Roobertinkatu 10

Tuska Open Air Metal Festival. Tuska has

Vinyl. Listen to great music in this laid-back lounge bar. If you like what you hear, you can even buy the record and bring it home with you. Yliopistonkatu 8, www.vinyl.fi

Emma Experience party cruise. From May

Cuba Cafe. What better place to enjoy a mojito than the Erottaja district. Erottajankatu 4, www.cubacafe.fi

established itself as a major international heavy metal festival. Purchase your ticket in time! www.tuska-festival.fi

to September you can enjoy a party on deck as you cruise through the spectacular archipelago. www.sunlines.fi

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24:00-04:00 Rytmi. This bar and café next to Hakaniemi Market is popular among the cultural and media elite. Rytmi is a great place to check out Helsinki’s street fashion and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Toinen linja 2, www.rytmi.net Sävel. Sävel is another popular lunch and dinner restaurant near Hakaniemi Market, where locals meet to discuss art and music. Hämeentie 2, www.kallionsavel.fi Bar Loose. This is where Helsinki’s garage rockers hang out. Famous bands have been known to throw surprise gigs here. Fredrikinkatu 34, www.barloose.com New Year’s Eve. The traditional place to ring in the New Year in Helsinki is Senate Square. The crisp air ensures that your champagne stays cold and your spirits warm as you admire the fireworks and light installations. Senate Square will be specially lit up for about 10 days around the New Year. www.visithelsinki.fi/events Ahjo. Ahjo is a stylishly cool nightclub in connection with the Klaus K design hotel. Bulevardi 2-4, www.ahjoclub.fi

Kuudes linja. The “Sixth Line” has rapidly grown into one of Helsinki’s most popular venues for live music and clubs. Hämeentie 13, entrance from the courtyard (Kaikukatu 4), www.kuudeslinja.com Redrum. Redrum hosts clubs every night of the week with a sound system straight out of Ibiza! Vuorikatu 2, www.redrum.fi

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DTM. The largest gay café, disco and nightclub in Scandinavia offers wild times and high-quality drag performances. Iso Roobertinkatu 28 www.dtm.fi

Lost & Found. An extremely popular place for late night drinks every night of the week. Annankatu 6 www.lostandfound.fi Tavastia and Semifinal Tavastia is a legendary venue for top Finnish and international bands. The smaller Semifinal presents up-and-coming artists. Urho Kekkosen katu 4–6 www.tavastiaklubi.fi

Pataässä. The “Ace of Spades” is a karaoke bar where you may even see Finnish celebrities having a go at the microphone! Mariankatu 9 Botta, Manala & St. Urho’s Pub. Ostrobotnia – including Botta upstairs and Manala downstairs – is a popular dance restaurant on Friday and Saturday evenings that serves food until 3:30 in the morning. St. Urho’s Pub serves great beer on the same block. Dagmarinkatu 2, www.botta.fi

Lux. For lovers of disco and glitter, Lux is the place to be. Kamppi Shopping Centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1 www.luxnightclub.fi Teatteri. Teatteri is a popular ”entertainment complex” that includes a restaurant, bars, a café and a nightclub. Here you can bump into Finnish celebrities from models to ice-hockey players. Pohjoisesplanadi 2, www.teatteri.fi

Club Liberté. This club hosts live gigs by established artists and new talent, as well as billiard tournaments. Kolmas Linja 34 www.clubliberte.fi

Kämp Club. The exclusive Kämp Club offers almost 50 different champagnes to choose from, as well as an extensive range of cocktails. Pohjoisesplanadi 29, www.palacekamp.fi

Grand Casino Helsinki. This international casino also offers high-quality entertainment and cuisine in the Fennia Salonki show restaurant. Note: Finnish guests must present at the door a photo ID and foreign guests a passport. Mikonkatu 19, www.grandcasinohelsinki.fi

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04:00-08:00 Grill kiosks. After a night out on the town, order a delicious meat pie with two sausages and all the toppings. Helsinki’s leTuomasgendary grill kiosks include Jasgrilli on Iso Roobertinkatu and kan grilli on Dagmarinkatu opposite Manala.

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Sokos Hotel Torni. Torni is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Helsinki. The hotel has a colourful history, having housed the largely Soviet-manned Allied Control Committee after the Second World War. The hotel’s rooms were recently refurbished, and guests can select from Art Deco, Art Nouveau or Functionalist décor. Yrjönkatu 26, www.sokoshotels.fi

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Hotel Helka. This stylish and cosy hotel is decorated with furniture designed by Alvar Aalto. Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 23 www.helka.fi

Finnish Design Shop. You can purchase high-quality Finnish design conveniently and reliably from this online shop. www.finnishdesignshop.com M

Hotel Kämp & Hotel GLO. Sleep like a celebrity at the five-star Hotel Kämp. Pohjoisesplanadi 29, www.hotelkamp.fi A slightly more youthful and less expensive alternative is the Hotel GLO, a modern and urban lifestyle hotel next door to the Kämp. Kluuvikatu 4, www.palacekamp.fi

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Klaus K. This centrally located design hotel attracts style-conscious visitors. Bulevardi 2, www.klauskhotel.com

Helsinki mobi Take a virtual tour of Helsinki with your mobile phone! http://helsinki.mobi

Hostel Erottajanpuisto. The excellent location of this hostel in the trendy district of Punavuori will save you both time and money in the early hours of the morning. Uudenmaankatu 9 www.erottajanpuisto.com

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Omenahotelli. Omena Hotels offers low prices and clean and spacious rooms. You can come and go as you please with your key code. Eerikinkatu 24 Lönnrotinkatu 13, www.omena.com HEL LOOKS. This website shows you what people in Helsinki look like and, more importantly, what they are dressing in! www.hel-looks.com

Early morning coffee in the Market Square. Go straight from the bars to the shoreline or parks to admire the sunrise. From six in the morning onwards you can sip coffee and enjoy Finnish sugar donuts at the Market Square. Alternatively you could order a freshly baked korvapuusti, a Finnish traditional cinnamon bun. Delicious!

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Eurohostel. Stay at this fun and inexpensive hostel near the city centre. Linnankatu 9, www.eurohostel.fi

Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau Pohjoisesplanadi 19 (P.O. Box 28) FI-00099 City of Helsinki Tel. +358 9 310 13300, Fax +358 9 310 13301 [email protected] Tourist Information is open 2 May-30 Sept. Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm 1 Oct.-1 May Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm www.visithelsinki.fi

What’s the best of Helsinki? Vote for your own favourite in the Nordic Oddity category! Published by Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau 2009 Layout: Ezpa Oy/Katariina Tirkkonen-Wane Printed in Finland by Paintek Pihlajamäki Oy The publisher is not responsible for possible changes

www.bestofhelsinki.fi