Helsinki 3 Day Itinerary

July 8, 2024

Three-Day Itinerary for Exploring Helsinki

Breakfast at Kauppahalli Market: Start your day with a traditional Finnish breakfast at one of the food stalls in Kauppahalli (Central Market). Try ‘Korvapuustit’ (Finish pasties) or ‘Munkki’ (doughnut-like pastry).
Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral: Stroll to Senate Square, the main city square of Helsinki, where you can see the iconic Helsinki Cathedral.
Temppeliaukio Church: A short walk from Senate Square is the unique Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church, built directly into solid rock.

Lunch at Ravintola Kanavaranta: Head to Sinebrychoffin aukio for a delicious lunch at Ravintola Kanavaranta. Try their famous fish soup or salmon dishes.
Design District (Keskuskatu, Asema-aukio 2, Kaiku and Nuorta Designerit): Explore the Finnish design scene in Helsinki’s Design District. Visit shops selling glassware, textiles, furniture, and more.
Esplanadi Park: Relax at this popular park, located between the city center and the Market Square, with a variety of cafes and restaurants nearby.

Dinner at Olo: For a fine dining experience, book a table at Olo restaurant. They offer a modern Finnish cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the market square.
Tourist Information Center (Visit Helsinki): Pick up some tips and brochures for your next days’ exploration at the Tourist Information Center.

Breakfast at Cafe Müüki: Enjoy a breakfast with a view of the market square at this popular café.
Suomenlinna Fortress: Take a ferry from Market Square (Kauppatori) to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the morning exploring the fortifications and museums.

Lunch at Särkänlinnan Ravintola 1640: Enjoy lunch in this charming restaurant located inside the fortress.
Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma: Head back to the city center and visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, Kiasma.

Dinner at Restaurant Ask: For a taste of new Nordic cuisine, try Restaurant Ask. Bookings are recommended.
Tallinna Lincoln Center: End your day with a movie or concert at Tallinna Lincoln Center. Check their schedule for evening performances.

Breakfast at Gröhn: Start your day with breakfast at Gröhn, a cozy café with an excellent selection of pastries and coffee.
Helsinki Zoo: Take the tram to Helsinki Zoo for a morning filled with animals.

Lunch at Ravintola Herkku: Enjoy a gourmet lunch at this Michelin-starred restaurant in the heart of Töölö, serving Finnish cuisine with a modern twist.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art (if you missed it on day 2): Return to Kiasma for more contemporary art and exhibitions.

Dinner at Fazer Restaurant: For your final dinner, dine at Fazer Restaurant, located in the Fazer shopping center. Try their famous ‘Korvapuustit’ and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Helsinki has an extensive public transportation system consisting of trams, buses, and the metro (called the “tunnel”). Purchase a HSL travel card for unlimited travel during your stay.
Bikes are also popular in Helsinki, and you can easily rent one from several bike rental stations around the city.

The Finns are known for their politeness, so remember to say ‘kiitos’ (thank you) frequently.
Most shops and services close early on Sunday, so plan your shopping accordingly.
During summer, the “white nights” offer extended hours of daylight. Make sure to make the most of this unique phenomenon!