Traditionally, Finland has a reputation as the heavy metal capital of the world. So who would have thought that they would do sunshiney reggae, upbeat rap, rock-and-roll and funk every bit as well as they do deep-throat growling? But indeed, they do, and the Finns’ love for music is broad and eclectic. Whatever your fancy, you’re bound to find it in Helsinki, and the range of nightlife very much centres around the music that’s on offer. It’s not the kind of city that you’d go to specifically to rave all night or to party til dawn (in summer you’d be in bed around 2am), but if you’re after a city that genuinely loves, respects and supports quality live music, indoors and out, then it’s an excellent place to be. Helsinki hosts a dedicated and varied night scene that takes the programme just as seriously as the drinks menu.
Kokomo Tikibar & Room
Pacific cocktails and atmosphere!
Annina Airas /
They serve pacific-style food in a setting to match. Starters are from €3-10 euros and mains ...
Kuudes Linja
Must-go party place
Sarah Hudson /
One of Helsinki's best known and most established live DJ and party venues. You haven't ...
Nosturi
Down by the dockyards
Sarah Hudson /
Next to the harbour at Punavuori you'll find one of Helsinki’s best known music venues. The ...
Tiger
Sarah Hudson /
Here you won’t feel overdressed if you decide, for once, that you don’t feel like going out in ...
Venue
The spot
Sarah Hudson /
It used to be called YK Clubi and be a favourite student haunt for live gigs. Then they ...
Adams
Hip to be square
Sarah Hudson /
It's quite new on the Helsinki scene, but already giving us not-so-teeny bopper types ...
Kaiku
Put your golden jacket on, let's dance!
Katariina Mäkelä /
The holy trinity is now complete when party venue Kaiku was opened next to Kuudes linja and ...
Tavastia Klubi
Rock club since 1970s
Laura Randmaa /
Now here’s a real Helsinki tradition. A club that’s been open since the beginning of 1970, it’s ...