Travel around Helsinki with Bobby
I chose to visit Helsinki because it offers a unique blend of modern design and serene natural beauty. The city’s reputation for innovative architecture, like the Temppeliaukio Rock Church and Helsinki Cathedral, was a big draw for me. I was also intrigued by the vibrant Design District, known for its stylish shops and galleries showcasing Finland’s minimalist aesthetic. Beyond the city, Helsinki’s proximity to nature, with islands like Suomenlinna and nearby forests, made it the perfect escape. I wanted to experience the local culture, especially the famed Finnish saunas and food scene. Helsinki seemed like a place where urban life and nature coexist in harmony, and I couldn’t wait to explore it all.
Day 1Diving into Design – Helsinki Cathedral and the Design District
I started my Helsinki adventure with a visit to Helsinki Cathedral, a stunning white neoclassical landmark that sits proudly above Senate Square. The cathedral’s minimalist elegance felt quintessentially Finnish, with its grand columns and beautiful dome set against the blue sky. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, I took a short walk to Market Square by the harbor, bustling with food stalls offering fresh seafood, berries, and pastries.
After a quick lunch at the market, I explored Helsinki’s Design District, a creative hub filled with boutique shops, galleries, and cafes. Here, I found unique Nordic furniture, minimalist jewelry, and even handmade ceramics. The vibe was inspiring, showing off Finland’s reputation for sleek, functional design. I ended my day at Yes Yes Yes, a trendy vegetarian restaurant in the district, where I had an amazing dish of beetroot falafel and halloumi fries.
The Design District is a must-see for anyone interested in style and creativity—plan to spend a few hours there! Helsinki Cathedral is equally stunning, especially on a clear day; it’s the perfect spot to start your Helsinki journey.
Day 2Nature and Culture – Suomenlinna Fortress and a Scenic Walk
For my second day, I took a ferry to Suomenlinna Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site and historic sea fortress just a short ride from the city. The journey over the Baltic Sea was scenic, and the island itself felt like a step back in time with its 18th-century fortifications, museums, and walking trails. I spent the morning wandering through the fortress, taking in views of the sea and discovering old cannons and tunnels.
For lunch, I tried a cozy cafe on the island, enjoying salmon soup, a Finnish classic, with a slice of rye bread on the side. Returning to the mainland, I took a scenic walk along Esplanadi Park, where locals were out enjoying the day. The path was lined with trees, street musicians, and colorful flower beds. In the evening, I visited Ateljé Finne, a restaurant in a former artist’s studio, where I had an incredible dinner featuring reindeer with lingonberry sauce.
Lunch on Suomenlinna Island, featuring traditional salmon soup and rye bread, was both hearty and delicious. Dinner at Ateljé Finne, with reindeer and lingonberry sauce, was an amazing way to experience Finnish flavors in a unique setting. Each meal was a taste of authentic Finnish cuisine.
Food
Returning to Hotel Kämp was a pleasure, with its comfortable rooms and helpful staff who made me feel right at home. The attention to detail in every part of the hotel enhanced the overall experience. After a day outdoors, it was the perfect place to recharge.
Accomodation
Visiting Suomenlinna was a fantastic experience, with its historic charm, scenic walking trails, and peaceful views over the Baltic Sea. The ferry ride and island exploration provided a refreshing and serene escape from the city. It’s a must for anyone visiting Helsinki.
Activity
Suomenlinna is worth the ferry ride, offering both history and peaceful walking trails. Don’t miss the salmon soup—it’s a Finnish staple and perfect for a chilly day.
Day 3Exploring Helsinki’s Unique Architecture – Temppeliaukio Rock Church and Kallio
Day three was dedicated to Helsinki’s unique architectural wonders, starting with Temppeliaukio Rock Church. This incredible church, carved directly into solid rock, has a natural, serene atmosphere with its copper dome and exposed stone walls. The acoustics were stunning, and there was a sense of tranquility that made it a memorable visit.
After the Rock Church, I headed to Kallio, a bohemian neighborhood known for its cool cafes, vintage shops, and vibrant street art. I stopped for lunch at Sandwich Club, where I tried a Nordic-inspired smoked salmon sandwich. In the afternoon, I explored the area’s thrift shops and even found some unique Finnish design pieces to take home. I wrapped up the day with drinks at Siltanen, a popular bar with a relaxed vibe and live music, perfect for a laid-back evening in Helsinki.
Lunch at Sandwich Club in Kallio, with a Nordic-inspired smoked salmon sandwich, was light yet flavorful. The casual vibe and fresh ingredients made it a pleasant meal, while the drinks and live music at Siltanen in the evening rounded out the day perfectly. The combination of local flavors and ambiance was spot-on.
Food
Hotel Kämp continued to be an ideal base for exploring Helsinki’s neighborhoods. The blend of luxury and comfort, with fantastic amenities, made returning each day feel like a treat. It’s a highly recommended choice for a relaxing stay.
Accomodation
The Temppeliaukio Rock Church was a unique architectural highlight, and exploring Kallio added an artsy, local perspective to the day. Between the peaceful atmosphere of the church and the vibrant Kallio neighborhood, the day was a beautiful balance of quiet reflection and lively energy.
Activity
The Rock Church is one of Helsinki’s most unique attractions—you can feel the natural beauty and peace here. Kallio is a refreshing break from the more touristy areas and gives you a taste of local life in Helsinki.
Day 4Nordic Wellness – Finnish Sauna Experience and Waterfront Relaxation
For my last day, I embraced Finnish wellness culture with a visit to Löyly Sauna, a modern public sauna by the sea. The experience was rejuvenating, with alternating sessions between the hot sauna and the chilly dip in the Baltic Sea—a true Finnish ritual. The sauna’s sleek wooden architecture, with views of the water, made it feel both invigorating and calming.
After my sauna experience, I spent the afternoon relaxing by the waterfront, enjoying a coffee from one of the nearby cafes and watching boats pass by. For my final dinner in Helsinki, I went to Ravintola Nolla, a zero-waste restaurant known for its sustainability and creative dishes. The meal was a celebration of local ingredients, with highlights like wild mushroom risotto and Finnish cheese.
Lunch at a cozy waterfront cafe and dinner at Ravintola Nolla were both excellent. The zero-waste restaurant’s creative approach to local ingredients, like wild mushroom risotto, was both delicious and inspiring. It was a memorable way to end my trip.
Food
Hotel Kämp provided a perfect last night’s stay, with impeccable service and a peaceful ambiance that made it hard to leave. The luxurious environment added a touch of elegance to the whole trip. I left with great memories of this exceptional hotel.
Accomodation
The Löyly Sauna experience, with alternating hot sauna sessions and dips in the Baltic Sea, was refreshing and unforgettable. Spending the afternoon by the waterfront and soaking in Helsinki’s tranquil vibe was a wonderful end to the trip. It’s an absolute must for anyone looking to experience Finnish wellness culture.
Activity
A sauna experience is essential in Helsinki—it’s both refreshing and grounding, and Löyly is the perfect spot to try it. Helsinki’s waterfront is a lovely place to end a trip, especially with a good meal and view of the Baltic Sea.
Summary of My Trip
Helsinki was a refreshing blend of modern design, serene nature, and rich Nordic culture. From the minimalist beauty of Helsinki Cathedral to the unique Temppeliaukio Rock Church, the city’s architecture captivated me. Exploring Suomenlinna Island was like stepping back in time, with its historic fortress and scenic views over the Baltic Sea. The Design District was a creative wonderland, showcasing Finland’s stylish craftsmanship in every shop and gallery. My stay at Hotel Kämp added a touch of luxury, making each evening a peaceful retreat. Helsinki’s food scene was equally impressive, with traditional dishes like salmon soup and reindeer complemented by innovative flavors at places like Ravintola Nolla. The Finnish sauna experience at Löyly was unforgettable—alternating between the heat and the icy Baltic was exhilarating! Helsinki has a calm yet lively energy, where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously. This city is truly a breath of fresh air, and I’d return in a heartbeat to explore even more.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Helsinki offers a unique travel experience with its blend of modern design, natural landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere. From its architectural highlights to traditional saunas, the city feels both refreshing and enriching. With a peaceful balance between urban life and nature, Helsinki left a lasting impression on me.
Lunch at the Market Square and dinner at Yes Yes Yes were both delicious and a great introduction to Helsinki’s food scene. The salmon and berry pastries at the market were fresh and flavorful, while the vegetarian dishes at Yes Yes Yes offered a unique and creative twist on Nordic ingredients. The beetroot falafel and halloumi fries were absolute highlights.
Food
I stayed at Hotel Kämp, a luxurious hotel in central Helsinki with spacious rooms, elegant decor, and excellent service. The location made it easy to explore the city, and the cozy atmosphere was perfect after a day of sightseeing. Each night felt like a treat in this beautiful space.
Accomodation
Exploring Helsinki Cathedral and the Design District was a visually inspiring and engaging start to the trip. The cathedral’s architecture was stunning, and the Design District offered a glimpse into Helsinki’s creative spirit with its unique shops and galleries. It was a day filled with artistic and architectural beauty.
Activity