Helsinki, a modern Scandinavian city along the side of the Baltic Bays, and the capital city of Finland is one of those cities you don't hear people talk about a lot. Due to its forward-thinking and modernization, people visiting Europe expecting to experience European medieval roots may be disappointed, when they arrive in Helsinki but if you brush that expectation aside and come to Helsinki with no expectation, you are in for quite a amazing time.
The fortified islands of Suomenlinna are an integral part of Helsinki. While they may at first seem remote, they are in fact easy to reach by a 20-minute ferry ride, using the same ticket as for buses and trams. The fortress of Sveaborg itself - which translates as "Swedish Castle" dominates the island. It was built in the mid 18th century to bar Russian access to the Baltic. During the Swedish-Russian war of 1808-09, it fell to the Russians, who thereafter enlarged and strengthened it. In 1918, it passed into Finnish hands and was given the Finnish name of Suomenlinna (Finnish Castle).
North of Helsinki's Hietaniemi area, along Fredrikinkatu, is Helsinki's Rock Church. Designed by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in the late 1960s, the underground interior of the church was carved out of and built directly into the ancient solid rock of the Helsinki peninsula. The inside of the church is bathed in a glorious natural light that enters through the glazed dome. It has a shallow circular dome (13 meters high) of copper sheeting and glass on concrete ribs. The church is also used as a concert hall due to its excellent acoustics created by the rough, unworked rock surfaces of the interior. Guided tours are available, and if visiting in summer, be sure to visit the on-site café for a unique dining experience.
Designed by Eila Hiltunen, the monument to the great Finnish composer was unveiled in 1967 and raised immediate controversy, and not a little criticism. The original Sibelius Monument (Sibelius-monumentti) was formed by a collection of large metal pipes that creates music as the breezes blow through them. The more traditional statue of Sibelius was added later, in response to the complaints about the original concept. The monument is part of the beautiful Sibelius Park, one of many in the Finnish capital.
The Market Square (Kauppatori) is the main planned and paved square in Helsinki, and is one of the best-known outdoor markets in northern Europe. Bordering the Baltic Sea at the eastern end of the Esplanadi, it is full of stands selling Finnish foods, flowers, and tourist souvenirs. There are often fishing boats lined up in the water selling seafood directly from the boat. In the winter, market stalls are protected under tents, and there is a year-round market hall with more vendors. Visitors should watch their food carefully, however, as the seagulls at the market are large and will pluck food from unsuspecting diners.
Honest client testimonials based on their personal experience on the service provided by Team Fly bagna, with all the reviews and ratings.
I Learned a lot about the city and the history of Finland. Discovered some interesting facts about the art and architecture in Helsinki. The tour guide was super jovial and knowledgeable. I highly recommend it.
Whenever I visit a new city, I try to join a tour, as this is one of the best introductions to everything, from food, to people, to monuments, culture, fun facts, etc. And the one in Helsinki was no exception. Kristina, our guide showed us around some of the city’s most important monuments, while giving us loads of additional fun and interesting information. Her enthusiasm was contagious! Definitely an experience not to be missed.
