Summer in Helsinki
Seagulls calling, the scent of the sea in the air, and sunlight dancing on the water as you hop between islands or sip a coffee by the harbour – this is what summer in Helsinki feels like. Ready to experience it for yourself?
Ferry to helsinkiPhoto: Julia Kivelä
Tips for things to do in Helsinki this summer
During spring and summer, Helsinki comes alive! Take a trip to nearby archipelago islands, take a swim in the middle of the city or discover Helsinki from above. Here are our best tips for those going on a cruise to Helsinki during the summer.
4 reasons why you should visit Helsinki this summer
Photo: Jussi Hellstén / Visit Finland
The sea is calling
If you want to get that island life feeling, it’s super easy to do so from Helsinki. Just hop on a ferry and within minutes you’ll find yourself on a peaceful island with beaches, saunas, forest trails and sea views.The sun doesn’t set
In summer, the sun barely dips below the horizon. There’s something magical about wandering through the city at 10pm in soft golden light. You’ll feel like there’s all the time in the world to explore.It’s the festival season
Whether it’s live music under the stars or contemporary art in nature, Helsinki knows how to celebrate summer. There’s something happening every weekend – just follow the sound.Best time to enjoy local flavours
Summer is the perfect time to taste Helsinki. Head to the Market Square or Hakaniemi Market Hall for berries, fresh fish, and handmade treats. Many food stalls and pop-ups offer seasonal bites you can enjoy right by the water.
Helsinki for art lovers
One of the nicest ways to explore Helsinki in summer is simply to take a walk and see where the city leads you. The streets are lined with beautiful architecture, and around almost every corner, there’s something creative to discover.
Art museums
On a sunny day in Helsinki, stepping into one of the city’s top art museums is like finding a cool, creative hideaway. Explore Kiasma, wander through the underground galleries of Amos Rex, or dive into Finnish favourites at HAM Helsinki Art Museum.
Find more sightseeing ideas
Photo: Jussi Hellsten / Helsinki Partners
Helsinki Design District
If you love art and design, Helsinki’s Design District is the place to be in summer. Spanning 25 streets and home to over 200 shops, galleries, studios and cafés, it’s full of energy and creativity. Every corner has something unique.
Discover the Design District
Photo: Juho Kuva / Helsinki Partners
Sinebrychoff Park
Sinebrychoff Park is one of the most loved green spots in the Punavuori district. It’s a beautiful place to relax on a sunny day – and right next to it, you’ll find the Sinebrychoff Art Museum, perfect for a quiet cultural break.
Bulevardi 40, Helsinki
Photo: Julia Kivelä / Helsinki Partners
Sibelius Park
Sibelius Park is a lovely place to spend your summer afternoon. Have a picnic, wander under the trees, or just sit in the sun. The Sibelius Monument is a must-see – a bit unusual, but totally worth it.
Mechelininkatu 39, HelsinkiOutdoor dining in Helsinki
Cafe Regatta
Cafe Regatta is the kind of place you stumble upon and instantly want to stay awhile. This tiny red cottage by the sea serves up warm cinnamon buns, blueberry pie, and that perfect cup of coffee. Sit by the water, watch the world go by – or if you’re in the mood for something more active, rent a paddle board.
Merikannontie 8, HelsinkiIsland hopping in Helsinki
With hundreds of islands just a short boat ride away, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by packing a picnic and setting sail. Here are some of the best islands to visit.
Photo: Juha Kalaoja / Visit Finland
Suomenlinna island
Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living island with artists, cafés, hidden beaches, and winding cobbled lanes. Climb its ancient ramparts, wander through mossy tunnels, and feel centuries of history in the sea breeze.
How to get there: Hop on the HSL or FRS Finland ferry from Kauppatori (Market Square).
Photo: Julia Kivelä / Visit Finland
Vallisaari island
Vallisaari feels like a forgotten fairytale. Once a military outpost, now a haven of wild meadows, forest trails, and abandoned bunkers. You’ll walk through soft greenery as butterflies dance overhead and views open up to the open sea.
How to get there: Take the FRS Finland ferry from Kauppatori (Market Square).
Photo: Julia Kivelä / Visit Finland
Lonna island
Just a 10-minute ride from Helsinki is Lonna, a small island with big character. It’s the kind of place where you can slip into a seaside sauna, linger over a long lunch at a cosy café.
How to get there: Travel with the FRS Finland ferry from Kauppatori (Market Square).
Photo: Rachel Iwanyszyn / Helsinki Partners
Seurasaari island
Part museum, part forest sanctuary, Seurasaari is a soulful step into Finnish history. Wander among historic wooden houses, explore quiet forest paths, and dip your toes into calm, sandy coves.
How to get there: Take the bus 24 from the city center.
Espoo archipelago
Sail west to find the wilder side of the capital region. The Espoo archipelago is scattered with islands like Pentala and Iso Vasikkasaari, offering tranquil forests, quiet beaches, and overnight huts by the water.
How to get there: Hop on one of the FRS Finland’s vessels.
Kivisaari island
Kivisaari is one of East Helsinki’s newest island escapes. At its center is a beautiful Art Nouveau mansion. On the island you’ll find a restaurant, sauna, cosy accommodations, and peaceful seaside views.
How to get there: Travel with FRS Finland ferry.
See Helsinki from above
Want to explore Helsinki without rushing around? Take it all in from above on the SkyWheel or sit back and enjoy a 5D virtual tour at Flying Cinema. And if you’re a Club One member, you’ll enjoy the best ticket prices too.
Photo: Nikke Alin / Visit Finland
SkyWheel Helsinki
Right next to the Market Square, SkyWheel Helsinki gives you amazing views over the city, the sea, and nearby islands – all from 40 metres up in the air. It’s also home to something you won’t find anywhere else: the world’s only sauna cabin on a Ferris wheel. Yes, really. A proper Finnish sauna, up in the sky.
Flying Cinema
If you’d rather keep your feet on the ground but still want to explore, head to Flying Cinema. This 5D ride takes you on a virtual tour through Helsinki or across the whole of Finland, complete with wind, mist or snow, and motion effects.
Photo: Julia Kivelä / Helsinki Partners
Cycling in Helsinki
One of the best ways to explore summer in Helsinki is on a City Bike. With a day pass, you’re free to ride at your own pace. Cruise down Baana, stop by Kiasma for a dose of art, or head to Kaivopuisto for sea views and green space. Ride around Töölönlahti Bay to spot Finlandia Hall, or follow forest paths from Central Park all the way to Haltiala.
City Bike rental info & routesSummer events in Helsinki
Photo: Jussi Hellsten / Visit Finland
Flow Festival
Flow Festival is one of Helsinki’s most iconic summer events. It brings together music, contemporary art and top-quality food in a unique industrial setting. Expect performances from global stars and rising talent across genres, from indie and hip hop to electronic and jazz.
Get Flow Festival tickets
Photo: Mariia Kauppi / Visit Finland
Helsinki Biennial
Throughout the summer, you can experience contemporary art in some of Helsinki’s most beautiful settings. Helsinki Biennial is a major international art event that brings powerful works by Finnish and international artists into the city’s natural and urban landscapes.
See Helsinki Biennal events
Photo: Aku Pöllänen / Visit Finland
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Linnanmäki is a must-visit when you’re in Helsinki during the summer. With over 40 rides – including six that are completely free – there’s something for every thrill-seeker and daydreamer. Beyond the rides, you’ll find classic carnival games and plenty of spots to relax, with restaurants and cafés dotted around the park.
Right next door is SEA LIFE Helsinki, where you can step into a tropical underwater world and come face to face with sharks, rays and colourful reef fish – the perfect way to cool off and explore the ocean without getting wet!
Enjoy the day with a walk in the nature
Nothing beats the calm that comes from being in nature. There’s something quietly healing about walking under the trees, hearing the wind in the leaves, and just letting your mind slow down. Helsinki is full of parks that let you reconnect with yourself.
Photo: Mika Ruusunen / Helsinki Partners
Lammassaari
Lammassaari means “Sheep Island” in Finnish – though funnily enough, there are no sheep to be found. What you might spot instead are birds, especially during spring and autumn migrations. With its stunning scenery, this peaceful island is perfect for a walk, which is not far away from the city centre.
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