Helsinki

The capital of Finland is a city called Helsinki, which is a hub for all types of activity to include financial, economic, and cultural. Helsinki offers a number of lush, green parks, beautiful waterways, and sea winds that carry seagulls over the open-air cafes and busy market square. If you want a pleasant place to visit during the summer months, Helsinki, Finland would be an ideal destination. Although Helsinki has a growing population around 540,000 today, it still has a small town feel, making it warm and inviting.

This European city is actually quite modern and surrounded by the sea and an exotic archipelago. Because of the diversity of this city and the country of Finland, people love visiting so they can enjoy all the possibilities. Helsinki has a 450-year history with colorful layers of history between Russia and Sweden. Even through many battles, famine, and unrest plagued this city, Helsinki continues to focus on the future with cutting-edge design, high technology, and modern day architecture.

One of the fascinating aspects of Helsinki is that with each season, you see distinct lifestyles. As an example, the warm summer months are when the city comes alive. People enjoy the sunny days on the beach or at the lake, as well as milling about to enjoy many of the local celebrations and activities. Then in the cold, winter months, Helsinki is shrouded by a mysterious blanket of darkness. For entertainment, the Finns enjoy concerts, exhibitions, dining out, and local events.

First founded in 1550 by King Gustav Vasa of Sweden on the Vantaa River, the center was actually moved in the mid 17th century to the southern peninsula where it remains today. At this new location, the city was near deeper waters that helped improved trading over the Baltic Sea. With many lives lost through various battles, Finland finally received her independence in 1917 when she became a part of the European Union, known as the Republic of Finland.

When visiting Helsinki, you will have the opportunity to see many things by foot, although the transportation system is very efficient and reliable. The Market Square is designed in beautiful Neo-Classical architecture, surrounded by a number of buildings. In addition, you can enjoy Soflankatu Museum Street, Esplanade Park, or the National Library, all in the nearby vicinity. Then, you might take a trip to the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, one of the world’s largest. Build on six islands, today this is one of the most visited spots in all of Finland (shown to the right).

If traveling with the family, a trip to the Linnanmaki Amusement Park, Sea Life, and Helsinki Zoo would be a great way to spend the day. For 50 years, this park has been providing one thrill after another to families that come. You can enjoy the traditional rollercoaster or enjoy whatever new ride has been added the year you go. The Helsinki Zoo is also a great time with all types of exotic animals. Of course, Sea Life is a favorite, taking you on a voyage from the tropical oceans to the Arctic Sea with impressive exhibits and underwater creatures.

In addition, you could spend an evening out on the town dancing, especially around the Kallio district, which is located near the center. There, you will find a number of different atmospheres and price levels, meaning there is something for everyone. Shopping in Helsinki is a great opportunity to find all types of treasures. With literally hundreds of quaint boutiques, designer shops, and shopping centers, you will have your choice of where to go and what to buy.

Keep in mind that when visiting Helsinki, Finland, you will never have a dull moment. You could enjoy the month of April with Vappu, a huge carnival with colorful balloons, decorations, food, drinks, and students all celebration spring (no school). However, if you want to experience one of Finland’s finest festivals, you definitely want to see Juhannus, or Midsummer’s Day. With this, the Finns set large bonfires as they celebrate the long day of sunshine.


Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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