Families
Helsinki offers something for all ages and is as if made for vacationing families. Even better, the best sights for kids are usually just as much fun for grown-ups!
Traditional favourites
The Linnanmäki Amusement Park has entertained families for over 50 years. These days, families can also enjoy the adjoining Sea Life.
The Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island is a fantastic destination for enjoying the nature and marvelling at exotic animals.
At Seurasaari Island you can walk around the Open-Air Museum and admire Finland's traditional wooden buildings.
The Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress promises an adventure with every visit. The historic milieu, unique archipelago, restaurants and museums will appeal to the entire family.
Quality museums and gardens
Helsinki offers over 70 museums to choose from. Kids will love the Theatre Museum, Museum of Natural History, Tuomarinkylä Children’s Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma.
Another great way to entertain the family is to go see the canaries at the Winter Garden or the many exotic plants at the Botanical Gardens.
Gardenia Helsinki is a unique tropical garden where children can explore the jungle themselves with a special activity map.
Action and new discoveries
Children also love action, and Helsinki has it!
At Tropicario you can experience the adventure in the world of snakes and lizards. See the
worlds most poisonous snakes, look into the eyes of giant multimetre
snakes.
The Leikkiluola “Action Cave” beneath Hakaniemi Market is open during the summertime and is a great place to spend the day if the weather gets too hot or rainy.
Many other action-packed attractions can be found throughout Helsinki Region. At the Serena Water Amusement Park you can either spend the day relaxing or having fun in the water. If you are more interested in stimulating the intellect or satisfying your children's curiosity, then you must visit Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre.
Indoor activity centres, HopLop parks and the Huimala Adventure Hall can be found in Espoo and Vantaa.
You will not run out of ideas in Helsinki. How about a little go-kart racing, or a weekend of snowboarding? You name it, Helsinki has it.
Around town
Helsinki has fantastic public transportation that is especially convenient for family travel. Getting from the city centre to the beaches is no problem. It is also a great way of seeing the town, especially if you hop aboard the 3T tram.
Quality sightseeing tours are another recommended option for discovering Helsinki.
Helsinki's many beautiful parks offer peace and relaxation during the warm summer months. The surrounding archipelago offers a chance to explore the islands, swim and arrange unforgettable picnics. In cold winters you can skate on the sea or choose from dozens of ice-skating rinks throughout the city.
During Christmas the city celebrates with light and music. You might even run into Santa Claus and his elves. Shopping centres and boutiques are open on Sundays during the Christmas season.