Discover Helsinki's Hidden Gems on a Budget

Discover Helsinki's beauty on a budget without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Helsinki is a beautiful city full of history and culture, and it is possible to explore it even on a limited budget. Budget-friendly activities include visiting free museums and galleries, exploring the city's parks and markets, and taking advantage of the affordable public transportation. Accommodations can be found in hostels or budget hotels, and local markets offer affordable food options.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into Hotel Finn, a centrally located budget hotel with sleek, minimalist decor
  • Visit the Helsinki Cathedral, an awe-inspiring structure with Neo-Classical influences
  • Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of Design District, a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries and hip boutiques
  • Have a traditional Finnish meal at Kappeli, a beautiful restaurant located in a historic park
  • End the day by catching the sunset at the waterfront market square, where locals gather to enjoy street food and live music
Day 2

Saunas and Sibelius

  • Start the day like a true Finn at Löyly, a modern sauna complex with a seaside location
  • Enjoy brunch at Cafe Regatta, a cozy cafe with views of the sea and an outdoor seating area with blankets to keep you warm
  • Visit the Sibelius Monument, a giant steel sculpture inspired by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius
  • Check out the contemporary art exhibitions at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Sample Finnish craft beer at the trendy Bruuveri brewery
Day 3

Islands and Art

  • Take a ferry to Suomenlinna, an 18th-century sea fortress that's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the island's museums, tunnels, and scenic walking trails leading to picturesque views of the sea
  • Have lunch at Cafe Chapman, a charming restaurant located in a historic building that used to be a merchant's mansion
  • Return to the mainland to check out the Kamppi Chapel, a striking wooden chapel designed to provide a peaceful respite from the city
  • End the day by browsing the eclectic galleries at the Cable Factory, a former industrial building that's now a hub for Finland's creative industries.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Helsinki by plane is to fly into Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL). Many major airlines offer direct flights from destinations around the world.

Car

If you're driving to Helsinki, the main entry point from other countries is via the E18 motorway from Sweden. There are also several other highways leading to the city.

Train

While there are no direct trains to Helsinki from other countries, you can take a train from Russia or other parts of Finland. The main train station in Helsinki is Helsinki Central Station.

Boat

You can take a ferry to Helsinki from various cities in Sweden, Estonia, and Russia. The main ferry terminal in Helsinki is West Terminal.

Bus

Numerous bus companies operate routes to Helsinki, both from within Finland and neighboring countries. The main bus station in Helsinki is Helsinki Central Bus Station.

More travel plans

5 Days of Fun: Helsinki, Finland Adventure

As a tourist, a trip to Helsinki, Finland would include visits to historic landmarks like the Helsinki Cathedral or the Suomenlinna Fortress. You could also explore the Finnish design scene by checking out design museums or wandering through trendy neighborhoods like the Design District. Finally, experiencing a Finnish sauna and tasting local Finnish cuisine like reindeer meat or Karelian pies would also be a must-do.

Helsinki on a Budget: A Day Trip Guide

With Helsinki being one of the most expensive cities in Europe, it's important to plan wisely for a trip on a limited budget. Fortunately, there are many free and affordable attractions to enjoy, including exploring the city's beautiful parks, visiting museums on free admission days, and sampling street food or shopping at affordable markets. Budget-friendly accommodations can be found by staying in hostels or renting a room through Airbnb.

Helsinki's Adventure Wonderland: Family Fun Galore!

Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, offers a fantastic family-friendly experience with its wide range of activities and attractions. Take your children to the Linnanmäki amusement park, where they can enjoy thrilling rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Explore the charming Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which provides an exciting day of exploring historic buildings and beautiful landscapes. Additionally, the city is dotted with numerous parks, museums, and markets, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family getaway.

Discover Helsinki: A Day Trip Adventure!

Helsinki is a vibrant and modern city, known for its unique blend of Scandinavian and Russian architectural styles. Visitors can explore the bustling streets and markets, visit the iconic Lutheran Cathedral, or take a ferry to nearby islands. Helsinki is also home to a variety of museums, including the National Museum of Finland, the Design Museum, and the Ateneum Art Museum.