Information about flights to Helsinki
As you'd expect from a capital city, Helsinki is full of things to see and do. It's a fantastic place whatever time of year you go. Popular attractions span a huge range of genres including parks boasting amazing events, impressive cathedrals, a big zoo, markets, cutting edge design and world-class restaurants and shopping. Whatever you're looking for, it's less than a three hour flight from London and there are bargains to be had at lastminute.com.
History worth a visit
After your hotel, make the Suomenlinna your first stop. This UNESCO World Heritage Centre is a fort constructed in the late 18th century to link and fortify a group of islands and protect the seaward approach to the city. Today, the islands are home to about 900 people, a naval academy and some very large canons. It's a great place to spend a few hours while you're visiting the city. Another piece of Finnish history is Seurasaari Island – take a tour and find out what it was like to live there in the 1660s. The Bronze Age village is well worth a look too.
The great outdoors
The Esplanadi is a great park right in the middle of the city. The wide walkways are really peaceful and lead from the buzz of the city's Market Square down to the water's edge. The park itself has an area specially designed for live music performances. If there's something on while you're there, don't miss it! In the summer take a picnic or relax at Café Kappeli. In winter, take your camera and photograph the rows of gorgeous trees.
The Pihlajasaari Recreational Park is on an island and is a gorgeous place to get away to, whether you like walking or you want to soak up the sun on the beach. For sports fans, there's boating, fishing, sauna hire, camping and much more.
Shop 'til you drop, Helsinki style
In the winter, the centre of Helsinki comes to life with the Christmas markets. It's full of amazing handmade goods and designer stalls that mean it's easy to pick up souvenirs and gifts that friends and family will love Shopping is just as fabulous for the rest of the year. The Design District Helsinki organisation puts on late night shopping six times a year – perfect for those wanting to explore the city's amazing shops at night and grab a designer bargain.
Finnish fashion is world renowned – it's a mix of sophistication, simplicity and bold patterns and Helsinki is full of great boutiques for men's, women's and kid's clothing. Check out Acolyth Store, Aino, Liike and Lumi Supermarket for Nordic accessories.
Foodies' delight
Helsinki is home to the New Nordic Cuisine food movement and the small trendy restaurants, as well as pop-ups are where you'll find delicious examples from both established and up and coming chefs. What you'll also notice is the availability and widespread use of seasonal, local produce, meaning everything you eat is fresh, creative and unmistakably Finnish. Check out some of the locals' favourite spots – Nokka, Ask and Olo. If you want to pack a picnic for the park, head to Anton & Anton deli, Helsinki's market halls and the Eat & Joy Farmers Market.
Whatever you're looking for, a break to Helsinki is full of adventure, history and delicious treats and you can fly there for less with lastminute.com.
