Helsinki : Finland’s Capital City with a Spectacular View and Marvelous Culture

Overlooking the Baltic Sea is Finland’s capital city of Helsinki. In the midst of the Baltic’s bays and mini islands, it is one of Europe’s premier cruise ship destinations. The city’s urban plan is also a sight to behold and mesmerize one. Below are some of the places one should tour or sightsee in Helsinki city:

1. Korkeasaari Zoo

Despite undergoing urbanization, Helsinki has made major efforts to retain its flora and fauna. The Korkeasaari Zoo is home to various animal and plant species. The zoo is situated on one of Baltic’s islands and can be accessed either by ferry or bus. Sightseers are treated to a variety of rare animal breeds including The Siberian Tigers, Amur and snow leopards each in an enclosure mimicking their natural habitats. Also available are themed tropical houses with specialty gardens of various tropical plant species.

2. The Sibelius Monument and Park

Part of the city’s past and pride is in its musical taste. Helsinki is a popular destination for opera performances. To commemorate one of its musical pioneers, in a manner behooving his contributions is the Sibelius Monument and Park. The center of attraction and a sightseeing special is the monument. It is made of big metallic pipes that make symphonies as the wind blows through them. The park is beautifully designed, with benches strategically placed under tree shades. The flower gardens in the park have also been designed with amazing topiary, adding beauty to the fragrance in the air.

3. The Ateneum Building

Helsinki has a rich history, having been built to glory, destroyed by fires and back to its glory days. The Ateneum building is among the first of the city’s structures. Built in the 100s favorite Neoclassical style, it is currently a gallery and home to the Finnish Arts Academy. Most of the artwork here is from the modern age, with works from Edelfelt, Halonen, Jarnefelt, and Gallen-Kallela being mainstay items. Notable art pieces that surely give one an experience close sightseeing are the Monk’s Reading and the Van Gogh Street.

4. Kiasma

Helsinki city has caught up with modernization, all the while still preserving its authenticity. Kiasma serves as a place to show the progress the city has made in modernizing artistry. It has a rounded exterior with gaps on which modern day contemporary pieces are put on display. Inside the building are more art galleries. Art exhibitions go on all year round, making anytime the best moment to pay a visit. The artworks here are not ancient, the oldest ones being around fifty years old. Also present is a theatre that hosts performances on dance, experimental drama, and concerts.

5. Linnanmaki Amusement Park

Away from the usual sightseeing, thrilling experiences should have a place on one’s itinerary of Helsinki city. The Linnanmaki Amusement Park is a good place to spend an entire day engaging in fun activities. Thrilling activities here include a Ferris wheel, a large water tower, and a switch back. The park also has an array of shops and restaurants, enhancing its convenience. The ticket prices oscillate during the peak and off-peak seasons. It is therefore advisable to visit their website to know current prices in advance. A television tower stands in the heart of the park, showing children’s entertainment.

6. Suomenlinna

In Europe’s chaotic and war laden past, this city always fortified itself, especially against offense from the Baltic Sea. The Suomenlinna is a 1800s fortress built with the main purpose of hindering Soviet access from the seafront. At the moment, it has been transformed into a museum, displaying the maritime history of the city. The outdoors has been transformed into a green park, complete with sea views for sightseeing, which is immediately adjacent. It is accessible by ferry all year round. Visitors should only ensure that they get the ferry schedule right to avoid lateness or delays.

7. Seurasaari

The Seurasaari is an island setup where most of the Helsinki’s indigenous ways are boldly displayed. It is made of an outdoor museum, a farmhouse with neighboring workmen quarters, a Kiruna church and other aged homes. The museum serves the evocative purpose of education on the traditional Finnish lifestyle. On display are handicrafts, textiles and rye carpets that are characteristic of Finland. Weavers are also available in the compound, offering collector’s an opportunity to witness the real-time making of souvenirs they may opt to purchase.

8. Kauppatori

Away from the usual sightseeing, the Kauppatori offers an opportunity for one to have an ancient feel of ancient Helsinki shopping. It is a decorated square, home to outdoor market stalls. The stalls sell a variety of items including flowers, collectibles, and Finnish cuisines. On the seaward side, boats are also part of the market ecosystem, selling seafood and fish. During winter, the outdoor experience is maintained, thanks to the setting up of tents, making it full off life at all times of the year.

9. Helsinki Cathedral

In the city’s key square, is one of the city’s history filled complex. The Helsinki Cathedral is located on a street lined with various other museums, forming part of a stop for those on a historical sightseeing tour. The church itself is a sight to behold. A pearl white building that can be seen from various corners of the city, with a shape akin to a cruciform. Inside, the church is sure to give on a near heaven experience. Its roof has sculptures of some famous apostles precariously hanging.

10. Temppeliaukion Church

Helsinki’s churches seem to be a sure way to give individuals an awesome sightseeing venue, besides the spiritual fulfillment. The Temppeliaukion church is an underground church. It is directly built into rocks of the Helsinki Peninsula which form its foundation and walls. The church is dome-shaped, with a glass roofing reinforced by sheets of copper and concrete slabs. The sound effects in the church are also excellent, offering a good audio and acoustic experience, making this church a popular venue for musical concerts. The lighting from the glass roof is also excellent, directly dependent on the ever abundant sunlight.

◎ Closing

Helsinki promises to be a good area for individuals who would love to tour Finland. It is with no doubt that Helsinki offers a plethora of touring spots. The range from sightseeing, to historical monuments and museums, zoo visits and thrilling amusement parks; a tourist will surely enjoy his tenure of staying within the city.