Helsinki Region

Helsinki Region – Metropolitan area

The Helsinki Metropolitan area which includes the nearby cities of Vantaa and Espoo, is the largest urban concentration in Finland, with a population in the region of one million. Finland’s capital, Helsinki, is the country’s busiest port, and stretches across a number of Baltic islands and peninsulas, while the suburbs spread out into the surrounding forests.

Helsinki has a reputation for being one of Europe’s most progressive and modern cities, with a fascinating history going back over 450 years. Its combination of bustling, busy market places, of seaside parks, bars, cafés, and restaurants, its variety of museums and galleries, outdoor music festivals and concerts, all combine to make this a perfect city for visitors.

Amongst the many attractions in the area, the island fortress of Suomenlinna, located in the entrance to the South Harbour, stands out, and is very popular with locals for picnics and family outings. Staying in the islands, a visit to the traditional buildings of the Open Air Museum Seurasaari shouldn’t be missed, nor should a trip to Kiasma which houses the Museum of Contemporary Art, and Temppeliaukio, the unique Church in the Rock, both located near the city centre. Take in the history as you stroll through Senate Square, where the focus is the neo-Classical Lutheran Cathedral, and nearby Uspensky Orthodox Cathedral can be seen looming from its hilltop vantage once you reach the market place in the harbour. The city has a wide variety of excursions to avail of, like relaxed cruises around the archipelago, or steamer trips along the coast to the historic town of Porvoo, and even day trips across the Baltic to the Estonian capital, Tallinn.

Learn more

From Art to Nature: 8 Top Cultural Destinations in Helsinki

From Art to Nature: 8 Top Cultural Destinations in Helsinki

Ateneum Art Museum: A Must-See Cultural Destination in Helsinki

Ateneum Art Museum: A Must-See Cultural Destination in Helsinki

Must-Visit Destinations in and Around Helsinki

Must-Visit Destinations in and Around Helsinki

Unique things to do in Helsinki

Unique things to do in Helsinki

Nuuksio National Park: Your Gateway to Wilderness Retreat

Nuuksio National Park: Your Gateway to Wilderness Retreat

The Best Cafés in Helsinki – Guide to Coffee Culture in The Capital

The Best Cafés in Helsinki – Guide to Coffee Culture in The Capital

Wonderful Nature Experiences and Charming Cultural Sites in Kirkkonummi

Wonderful Nature Experiences and Charming Cultural Sites in Kirkkonummi

Be Charmed along the Espoo Waterfront Walkway and Archipelago

Be Charmed along the Espoo Waterfront Walkway and Archipelago

6 Destinations to Explore in Helsinki This Summer

6 Destinations to Explore in Helsinki This Summer

Helsinki Brunch Guide – Finding the best Brunch in Helsinki

Helsinki Brunch Guide – Finding the best Brunch in Helsinki

Fun Day Trips from Helsinki

Fun Day Trips from Helsinki

Dining out in the Helsinki Archipelago

Dining out in the Helsinki Archipelago

Helsinki to Stockholm: A Perfect Family Cruise on the Silja Symphony

Helsinki to Stockholm: A Perfect Family Cruise on the Silja Symphony

Island Hopping in Beautiful Helsinki Archipelago

Island Hopping in Beautiful Helsinki Archipelago

Baltic Sea cruises and city breaks with Tallink Silja Line

Baltic Sea cruises and city breaks with Tallink Silja Line

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