Helsinki

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Summer in Helsinki

A July 2002 trip to Helsinki by raycarstairs

TuomiokirkkoMore Photos

Despite only 36 hours to see the sights our visit to Helsinki was a relaxing mix of Scandinavian cullture and Finnish efficiency. A beautiful city with much to offer.

  • 7 reviews
  • 12 photos

Summer in HelsinkiBest of IgoUgo

Overview

Tuomiokirkko
The Senate Square gives an idea of the understated granduer of Helsinki whilst the Tumiokirkko, a Lutheran Cathedral gracefully adorns the square.

Contemplate the Sibelius Monument in the peace and quiet of Sibelius Park before heading back to the city centre to the hustle and bustle of the Esplanadi for some pavement cafe chilling.

For culture, take in the Kiasma - Gallery of Contemporary Art.

For curiosity, marvel at the Temppeliaukio Kirkko, a church of Suomalainen design which is quite lterally carved out of the 'raw' rock.

Helsinki boasts that it is the cleanest city in Europe - it's easy to see why.

Whilst by European standards Helsinki is not a cheap place to eat out there are bargains to be had and food and service is almost always of high quality.

Quick Tips:

Make sure to stroll along the Esplanadi soaking up the relaxing atmosphere of courting couples and buskers.

Best Way To Get Around:

There's only one way to see Helsinki - the 3B/T tram does an untouristy, tourist circuit of all the major sights within the city centre - try to retain your tram ticket if you plan to get back on a tram with one hour 20 mins as it allows you to travel FREE. The city is also so compact and uncongested with traffic that it's easy to get around on foot or bicycle.

Best Western Seaside HotelBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

A business orientated hotel which offered us a reduced weekend rate. Our junior suite was very spacious and comfortable with all the facilities you would expect. The hotel itself is typically Scandinavian and although their is a corporate feel to it, service is extremely efficient. It's worth visiting the rooftop bar for the view.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 5, 2002

Best Western Seaside Hotel
Ruoholahdenkatu Helsinki, Finland

Yade Wok and BarBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant

In a city where it is difficult to dine out for less than £35 p/p the Yade Wok and bar was a gold nugget. It's sensitive fusion of Thai and oriental food boasted fabulously fresh ingredients - must try Lime Shrimps and Rocket - and the service was highly efficient yet unobtrusive. Portions are substantial so it's better to underestimate, even if you've worked up a large appetite. Enjoy!
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 2, 2002

Yade Wok and Bar
Arkadiankatu Helsinki, Finland

Sibelius MonumentBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Sibelius Monument 1
ALthough there is very little of interest to tourists in the North of the city, it's worth making the trip to Sibelius Park to see the monument to the composer. Sibelius is regarded as a national hero to the Finns and the sculpture is very fitting in a unique kind of way. The structure itself is quite beautiful and the textured steel tubes catch and reflect the sunlight as it changes. Make sure to wander both around and under the structure.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 5, 2002

Sibelius Monument
Sibelius Park Helsinki, Finland

Tuomiokirkko - Lutheran CathedralBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Lutheran Cathedral 1
The Lutheran Cathedral adorns Senate Square and is probably the single most beautiful sight within Helsinki. The building itself is quite stunning especially when viewed from the bottom of the granite stairway which leads up to it. On arrving in Helsinki by boat, the Cathedral is very prominent in its elevated position and this adds to its Neoclassical magnificence - check out my photos!

Inside is altogether more subtle but well worth a visit. The simplicity of the Lutheran interior is serene and despite what the guide books say, will not disappoint you.

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 5, 2002

Tuomiokirkko - Lutheran Cathedral
Senate Square Helsinki, Finland

Sea Life CentreBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

This is a small but interesting sea life centre. The aquatic life looks well cared for and the tanks are clean. Information displayed is brief but succinct and features are in several languages. We enjoyed it so much that we went round a couple of times.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 5, 2002

Sea Life Centre
Linnamaki Amusement Park Helsinki, Finland

KiasmaBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "The Kiasma - The Museum of Contemporary Art"

The Kiasma
An intruguing modern Finnish building which looks less stern in the soft evening light. The building itself is almost as interesting as the art it contains. Light pours in and reflects off the sterile white walls. Don't miss the Dan Graham installations - this hands on experience is what modern art should all be about and the pop. Also, fantastic pop art exhibition traces the history of the genre.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by raycarstairs on October 2, 2002

Kiasma
Mannerheiminaukio 2 Helsinki, Finland 00100
+358 9 1733 6501

About the Writer

raycarstairs
raycarstairs
Glasgow, Scotland

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