Helsinki - City of contrasts

Throughout its 450-year history, Helsinki has existed in the crosscurrents of the East and West. The colourful layers of history can be seen everywhere; a walking tour of the city centre or of the magnificent Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress will open your eyes to a fascinating past. The sea is essential element in Helsinki and surrounded by it. On a typical winter the sea freeze and that makes life even moreexciting.

Today's Helsinki is also a city of the future. Its modern architecture, cutting-edge design and high-technology have attracted international recognition for the city. Unique lifestyles and urban subcultures are all a part of this international metropolis. 

Rhythm of the seasons

Life in Helsinki is defined by starkly contrasting seasonal changes. In the summer, the warmth and permanent daylight invigorate the city. The locals worship the sun and welcome the heat with open arms.

In the winter, the cosy and mysterious darkness offers its own blanket of warmth, even in the crisp and snowy outdoors. In town, Helsinki's culture explodes into life with a vast range of events, concerts and exhibitions.

Not an ordinary metropolitan

Most fins living outside Helsinki prefer even slower pace in their life, but for others Helsinki appears as cradle of tranquility.

Surrounded by the Baltic sea and wast forests makes Helsinki possibly the greeniest capital in the world. 

» City of Helsinki web pages