Welcome to Helsinki Region

Discover the vibrant capital region, where Nordic nature, rich (sauna) culture, and a laid-back lifestyle meet.

About Helsinki Region

The Helsinki region includes the capital city and its metropolitan area, as well as some further-flung towns and cities. Here, nature trails and city life are both never more than a stone’s throw away, and the area is overflowing with good food, unique public saunas, great design, interesting museums and Nordic architecture. Visit Helsinki and discover why it's said to be one of the world's most liveable cities!

Best reasons to travel to Helsinki

Finland's cool capital region

The Helsinki region is a green, spacious, and vibrant destination with world-class architecture and design, one-of-a-kind public sauna culture, unique Nordic restaurants, and picturesque villages and towns. Scroll left to see all the best reasons to visit this region!

Credits: Ants Vahter

Interesting Nordic design and architecture

From Art Nouveau to Alvar Aalto

From the modern wooden saunas, Art Nouveau districts, celebrated Oodi Library, and Neoclassical gems of the Senate Square to the iconic buildings by Alvar Aalto, Helsinki offers plenty to see for architecture and design lovers. The many flagship stores of Finnish design companies, like Marimekko, are also located in Helsinki.

Credits: Miki Watanabe

One-of-a-kind public saunas

Step into Finnish sauna culture

Finland is famous for is its strong sauna heritage. One of the best places to get to know the Finnish sauna culture is in Helsinki where public saunas are everywhere! Try the world-famous Löyly, go for a swim in Allas Pool near the Market Square, or enjoy a more traditional smoked sauna experience at Kuusijärvi in Vantaa! There are many options to choose from around the region.

Credits: Pekka Keränen / Visit Helsinki

One of the most sustainable cities in the world

Green spaces, public transport and equality for all

Helsinki is one of the most sustainable cities in the world with plenty of parks, green spaces, and fresh air. The city has a functional public transportation system with city bikes, trams, buses, water ferries, and the northernmost metro in the world to take you anywhere.

Credits: Julia Kivelä

Picturesque villages and towns

Day trip to Porvoo, Fiskars and other charming villages

The Helsinki region has many not-to-miss villages and towns to visit. These charming destinations from Old Porvoo to the ironwork villages of Fiskars, Billnäs and many more are great day-trip destinations for foodies, history buffs, and visitors looking for local goodies and crafts to take home with.

Credits: Julia Kivelä

Easy-access culinary scene

Michelin stars and Nordic flavours

Helsinki is the lesser-known cousin of other Nordic capitals, like Copenhagen, when it comes to its culinary scene. However, Helsinki and the surrounding areas are ready to make their mark. Wine and dine your way through the region’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, street-food vendors, and wild food establishments – to name a few. You won’t run out of options!

Credits: Toni Kostian, Grön

Get to know the region

Finland’s capital region blends Nordic cool with vibrant urban life and easy access to nature. From seaside saunas and world-class design to forest trails and island escapes, Helsinki and its neighbouring cities offer a cool take on city travel.

Helsinki, the capital of Finland

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Helsinki region destinations

The Helsinki region includes the capital and much more. Use the map to explore nearby destinations like the charming old town of Porvoo, the artist haven of Lake Tuusula, the lakes and forests of Lohja, and the urban nature of Espoo and Vantaa. Each pin leads to a unique city break!

Things to do in Helsinki Region

View all things to do in the Helsinki region

From seaside saunas and island-hopping to design treasures and forest trails, the Helsinki region offers something for every kind of traveller, rain or shine. Discover experiences that blend urban buzz with natural calm – all within easy reach.

Curated routes

View all routes

Here are a few selected routes through the Helsinki region with suggestions for what to see, eat and do. When you find something you like, click the heart icon to save it.

Eira_Helsinki Partners_My Helsinki OmarElMrabt_Extra_9 2018 - Omar El Mrabt, Helsinki Partners

The City Circuit

Helsinki4-5 days

Finland_Lappeenranta_3094_1_DSC0076_optimized - Juho Kuva

Finland on rails – scenic adventure by train

Helsinki7 days

Artisan Villages_01_Fiskars_Ruukki - Julia Kivelä - Julia Kivelä

Finnish Rural Culture

Helsinki5 days

Visit Porvoo_Auringonlasku - Visit Porvoo

East Coast Escapade

Helsinki4 days

FAQ about the Helsinki region

Read all frequently asked questions

Planning a trip to the Helsinki region? Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about transportation, top sights, accommodation and much more to help you make the most of your visit to Helsinki and its surroundings.