Helsinki is yet another Nordic capital that oozes style. For those of you who haven’t had the chance to discover the stylish side of this cool city, our clued-up locals have put together a list of places that you simply mustn’t miss.
1. Have a cup of coffee at Cafe Ekberg
Cafe Ekberg’s long history is reflected in its charming old-world interiors and distinctly 1920s vibe. It’s located in the city centre and easily reachable by foot. For all you early birds, on weekdays they serve a breakfast buffet from 7:30 am until 10:30 am.
2. Savour a tasty weekend brunch at Cafe Fanny
Cafe Fanny boasts sleek interiors and a warm and cosy atmosphere. Located in the hip Sinebrychoff Park, it’s the perfect setting for a long and tasty brunch (served on weekends from 10:30 am until 3 pm).
3. Stop by Eronen Record Store
Eronen first opened its doors in 1977 and has been pleasing music-loving locals ever since. It offers a tidy selection of records spanning a wide range of genres. If you’re not into vinyls (or music for that matter), it’s still worth checking out as the interiors are particularly cool.
Photo credit: Eronen Record Store
4. Dance until dawn with locals at We Got Beef
WGB is a cosy nightclub that attracts a mostly younger crowd from the Punavuori and Eira neighbourhoods. The DJs bring their own records with them, so rest assured you won’t have to listen to repetitive playlists all night. Throw yourself into the crowd and dance until dawn with the locals! The age limit is 20 – remember to bring ID.
Photo credit: Nathan
5. Satiate your sugar cravings at Karl Fazer Café
Every chocolate-lover in the Nordics knows that the Finnish confectionary company Fazer produces excellent chocolates and sweets. The brand’s founder, Karl Fazer, opened this exquisite café in downtown Helsinki way back in 1891 and it’s still going strong today. There’s a Fazer store just next door, so once you’re done enjoying delicious sandwiches, cakes and coffee, pop in and buy some sweets to take home as gifts.
Photo credit: jit bag
6. Take a dip at Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall
Inaugurated in 1928, this was the first public pool to open in Finland. It features a 25-metre pool, a steam sauna, a wood-fired sauna and an electric sauna. Even if you’re not a fan of swimming or saunas, go and see the building. It’s an excellent example of 1920s classicism and an important Finnish landmark, both historically and architecturally. There’s also a café on the second floor – we recommend the garlic snails! Note that the hall has separate swimming days for men (Tue, Thu, Sat) and women (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun).
7. Get a little taste of Italy at Signora Delizia
Located in the famous green Aeolus building close to Helsinki’s South Harbour, Signora Delizia is a small shop and café that sells organic Italian and Mediterranean products. The café is a great place to enjoy a decent Italian coffee and a sandwich stuffed with fresh mozzarella and prosciutto.
8. See some contemporary art at Kiasma
Right in the heart of Helsinki you’ll find Kiasma, Finland’s famed Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s an interesting landmark that’s pretty hard to miss. It offers something for everyone, housing exciting exhibitions and installations by Finnish as well as international artists. Special tip: Free entry on the first Friday of every month from 5 pm until 8:30 pm.
Photo credit: Kiasma
9. Meet art and architecture students at Latva Bar
Latva is a definite trendsetter in Helsinki, serving up top-quality treats from local producers and small breweries. It’s a great place to enjoy a nice glass of wine with Finnish-style tapas. Local art and architecture students like to hang out here.
Photo credit: hirotomo t
10. Try “sapas” at Juuri
This is another place serving Finnish-style tapas, though here they’re called “sapas”. Curiously located in the same building as Latva Bar, Jurri prides itself in using only the freshest organic and locally produced ingredients. Come here for real food and real flavours.
Photo credit: Ville Oksanen
Opening photo credit: Alexander Kolosov