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.

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Travel plan

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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.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Helsinki

You know you're in for a unique experience when a city's official animal is a hedgehog. Welcome to the land of saunas, salty licorice, and Santa Claus imposters – also known as Helsinki.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Helsinki, Finland: A 5 Day Family Adventure

Helsinki, Finland offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family trip. Explore beautiful parks such as the Esplanade, Adventure Park in Linnanmäki, or Helsinki Zoo, where kids can get up close with their favorite animals. Immerse yourselves in Finnish history at the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of winter with ice skating or sledding in one of the city's many outdoor rinks.

Helsinki Hopping: A 2-Day Family Fun Fest

Helsinki, Finland is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a diverse range of activities for all ages. Explore the city's numerous parks and gardens, like the beloved Suomenlinna Island, to enjoy picnics and outdoor adventures. With a rich cultural scene, Helsinki also boasts countless museums and attractions, such as the interactive Heureka Science Centre, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience for the entire family.

4 Day Adventure: Helsinki, Finland

A trip to Helsinki, Finland as a tourist offers a unique cultural experience with its stunning architecture, fascinating museums, and beautiful parks. Visitors can explore the colorful markets, taste delicious Finnish cuisine, and admire the picturesque waterfront views. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the local sauna culture and witness the Northern Lights if visiting during the right season.

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.