Helsinki

Finland

Backpacking Helsinki

Information on Helsinki, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.

The southern city of Helsinki is the capital of Finland and is a center of commerce, culture and one of the few cities in Finland which draw a significant number of tourists. Helsinki itself is a refreshing city with chiefly 19th-century architecture and a much more picturesque skyline than most European cities. If you are looking to experience all of Finland, it’s boundaries extend well into the arctic circle so this is a prime destination for seeing the Northern Lights. From the modern and developed south to the furthest reaches of the northern wildernesses you will find Finland a pleasant and attractive country that is largely unspoiled with notably clean and healthy air. Although there is a clear influence of both Russian and Swedish culture you will find Finland has developed its own independent character. In fact, since people rarely visit anywhere other than Helsinki, Finland is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. If you want to avoid tacky tourist crowds and experience a taste of life in a totally different environment then Finland is a very attractive choice.

Must See

Senate Square - Perhaps the most iconic site in all of Helsinki is Senate Square.  Considered the oldest part of city center, Senate Square is made up of the Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki, and the oldest building in central Helsinki, Sederholm House.

Kauppatori (Market Square) - In the heart of Helsinki’s Old Town, you’ll find this charming little square beside the harbor. It’s a historic Helsinki point of interest, as it’s been the site of commerce for centuries.

Old Market Hall - is the premier food market in the city. Since 1888, the Old Hall Market in the docks has been offering fresh produce and delicious dishes! It’s an indoor market so you’ll be safe from the harborside chill. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting which is why it’s such a popular tourist attraction.

 

Must Do

Day Trip to Tallinn - The capital of Estonia is only a short ferry ride away. Tallinn’s Old Town is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It's also the location of nearly all of Tallinn’s historic sites.

Night Out Partying - Locals love nights out and drinking in Finland. Most clubs only open at 10pm and close at 4am and there are a couple of fun districts. Kamppi and Punavuori is the buzzing area and heart of the nightlife scene in Helsinki! Kallio District is an up-and-coming district that offers plenty of epic nightlife options. The bars and clubs in this area are smaller and more hipster than other nightlife districts.

 

Lapland

Here you can go North of the Arctic Circle where you have the chance to see the Northern Lights, go dog sledding, skiing, swim in the Arctic Ocean or just hike around in the snow. We recommend having a sauna after every outing as the Finnish do. A good starting point is Rovaniemi, located on the Arctic Circle which is very much the beating heart of Lapland. As the capital city of the region it forms a central hub from which the rest of Lapland and the larger Barents region can be easily accessed. If going on an outdoor adventure to the arctic circle is something for you, than we will be happy to help you plan a trip to the farthest North you may ever go!

 

Get started now on planning your backpacking trip with personalized recommendations from our advisors. Your plan will include: accommodation options, food/nightlife recommendations, tours or attractions to see with recommendations for best operators, 24/7 assistance with bookings, answers to any questions and more.