Helsinki – where modern design and nature entwine

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Helsinki – where modern design and nature entwine

Helsinki's compact urban centre is surrounded by natural beauty. Built along the shoreline of the Gulf of Finland, it unfolds into an archipelago of forested islands and Baltic inlets. You're never far from a green space here, whether it's the neat tree-lined alleys and classical sculptures of Esplanade Park or the bird-filled winter garden and wildlife at Töölönlahti Bay. Streamlined and stylish, Finnish design is world-famous. Helsinki's Design District sits to the south of its centre, in the Punavuori neighbourhood. Visit the Design Museum to learn more about its history and influence, from Marimekko to Artek. Browse sleek homewares and avant-garde fashion in Helsinki's repurposed industrial warehouses. The city's modern architecture is hard to miss, seen in the curving lines of the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and reflective surfaces of the Musiikkitalo concert hall.

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Top Attractions in Helsinki

Sea Fortress Suomenlinna – strength on the water

Maritime and military history mingle at the Suomenlinna sea fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally built by the Swedish in 1748, before going on to defend Russia, and finally Finland. Surrounded by six kilometres of walls and 100 cannons, Suomenlinna also features a network of underground tunnels. The iconic King's Gate, framed in marble and limestone, makes a grand first impression. After passing through, explore the Great Courtyard with its historic residential houses and Ehrensvärd Museum. Getting there is easy; a swift and scenic ferry ride links the fortress with Helsinki's Market Square.
Helsinki Cathedral – a central landmark

Nestled in the heart of the city, Helsinki Cathedral greets visitors arriving by land or sea with its Corinthian pillars and imposing bell tower. This neoclassical landmark sits at one end of Senate Square, designed by Carl Ludvig Engel and completed in 1852. The cathedral's central dome reaches a height of 80 metres above sea level, designed to flood the interior with natural light. Don't miss the series of zinc sculptures on the roof, perched neatly in the gables. These Twelve Apostles stand guard over the cathedral – and the city unfolding below.
Kamppi Chapel of Silence – serenity in the city

A curiosity-inspiring curved wooden façade hides a hidden gem designed by Helsinki-based K2S Architects. The Kamppi Chapel of Silence sits at one end of Narinkka Square, one of Helsinki's most bustling spaces. Within its welcoming interior, you will find an oasis of sheltered calm. Warm-toned woods are used throughout, along with organic curved shapes and plenty of natural lighting. Sit down for a spell to gather your thoughts, or venture to the exhibition space at the entrance to see the latest artworks.
Ateneum Museum – centuries of Finnish art

Rediscover or become acquainted with Finnish art at the Ateneum. Together with the Sinebrychoff Art Museum and Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, the Ateneum is part of the Finnish National Gallery. Its expansive collections include masterworks from Finnish and international artists like Edvard Munch and Le Corbusier. View exhibitions spanning the 19th century up through modern times, displayed in an elegant fin-de-siècle salon setting. Afterward, refresh yourself with an expertly brewed coffee in the Ateneum Bistro or browse the colourful shop for souvenirs.

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