Young People
Helsinki is a Western European cultural city that has nevertheless found its own niche between East and West.
Internationally Helsinki is known for its unique designs, architecture and high technology. The city is also increasingly mentioned in connection with graphic design, music and youth culture.
Clubs, music and restaurants
Helsinki does not compete with other cities in terms of the amount of nightlife but rather its quality. A wide range of clubs and bars offers a choice of atmospheres and price levels. Whether you want to hang out with the art students, media types or working class Joe's, the city centre has the establishment you are looking for. Pub-crawlers should also check out the Kallio district near the centre.
There is no shortage of special events either, such as the
Flow Festival for modern urban music, the
Funky Elephant Festival for black rhythm music and the fortnight-long
Helsinki Festival.
Helsinki's restaurants offer everything from Michelin-starred haute cuisine to Tex-Mex. Be sure to try out some traditional Scandinavian food, Russian dishes or any number of ethnic and international restaurants.
Culture and shopping
The majority of Helsinki's cultural establishments and sights are situated within walking distance of the city centre. Art museums, such as the Tennis Palace Art Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, are just a stone's throw from the Senate Square and the best shopping streets.
In addition to major shopping centres, Helsinki offers hundreds of tiny and unique boutiques, including original designer shops. If you are into music, you will have to visit the Lifesaver record shop, which specialises in rhythm music, or Digelius Music, which has achieved almost cult status in Finland.
Intriguing urban districts
Helsinki's excellent public transportation makes it easy to reach sights and destinations further afield. A cheap and fun way to see different sides of the city is to jump on one of the many trams, especially the 3T from Kallio to Eira or the number 4 from Katajanokka to Munkkiniemi. Other Helsinki districts that are worth a visit include Ruoholahti, Vallila and Käpylä.
Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress and the many parks and beaches situated throughout the city are ideal places to relax, or even go for a swim in the midnight sun during the summer.
You can get more infrmation and tips from the Nordic Oddity -brochure produced by the Helsinki City Tourist and Convention Bureau.