48 Hours in Helsinki: Saunas, Sea Pools, and Scandi Culture

 

 

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Oh, Helsinki, you beauty! The capital city of Finland is a true gem of the Nordics. Stunning landscapes, an innovative design scene, and a rich cultural heritage. It’s a city that seems to fly under the radar when it comes to weekend breaks from the UK, which I think is absolutely BONKERS considering how cheap the flights usually are (we got ours for £15 RETURN from Stanstead using WayAway!). We spent 48 hours in Helsinki and packed in some serious culture,

Aside from the mega cheap flights, Helsinki is a city that should not be overlooked. Helsinki is full of quirky and artistic vibes, as well as beaut Scandi design and plenty of cafes (because let’s face it, the Finns are the true coffee connoisseurs of the world). Despite its mixed heritage, it definitely has a full Scandinavian feel. I went in November when there were hardly any daylight hours and the sun set at 3 pm, but that didn’t dampen the trip at all.  Rather than focusing on must-see tourist sites, it’s best to focus on experiences in Helsinki. The city is all about living in the moment and enjoying the little things. So, let me share with you some must-dos for your 48 hours in Helsinki. 

48 Hours In Helsinki – The Basics

Whether you’re arriving by air or sea, getting around is a breeze in Helsinki. 

Flying in – If you’re flying in, Helsinki International Airport is only a short 30-minute drive from the city. Opt for the public bus or Finnair city bus for the most affordable and convenient way to reach the city center.

Where to stay – Once there, I recommend staying in the Kamppi area of Helsinki for easy access to everything. We actually stayed at Hotel Indego Helsinki, which was a great little boutique hotel with easy access to everything. We booked the hotel through booking.com so we could find the best deal. 

Early arrivals – If you’re an early riser, or your flight arrives ahead of schedule, no worries! Store your luggage in the lockers located below the main train station for just 4-6 euros for 24 hours.

Ferries to Tallinn – Want to explore beyond the city? Catching the ferry to Tallinn is a must-do, and it’s both simple and affordable. Purchase your ticket at the ferry dock for around 35 euros and enjoy the scenic 20-30 minute walk from the main train station to the port.

Money – As for money matters, Finland uses the Euro and ATMs are widely available throughout the city. Most places also accept card payments, so you won’t need to worry about carrying too much cash.

Now we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into what you’re going to get up to during your 48 hours in Helsinki! 

Take A Dip In A Sea Pool 

Looking for a unique and energising experience during your 48 hours in Helsinki? Then look no further than the Allas Sea Pool. This oasis is a must-visit, with heated pools, saunas, and even a restaurant with stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Despite the Baltic (see what I did there?) temperatures, sea swimming is a beloved cultural activity in Finland, and many Finns swear by its rejuvenating effects on both the body and mind.  Entry starts at just €15 for adults and €7 for children, so it won’t break the bank either. Getting there is just a short stroll from the city center, or you can take the tram to the Market Square stop. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil atmosphere and views for days, creating the perfect setting to unwind and soak up the beauty of Helsinki. 

However, Allas Sea Pool is more than just sea swimming. It a perfect opportunity to experience another key aspect of Finnish culture: saunas! Sauna culture is deeply ingrained in the Finnish psyche, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in it than by visiting a traditional Finnish sauna. The Allas Sea Pool has a few saunas to choose from, including a smoke sauna and a wood-burning sauna. If you’re feeling brave, take a dip in the refreshing (see: COLD) seawater pool, or you can enjoy a massage or yoga class. 

Relax At A Sauna 

Speaking of Saunas, the architecturally stunning public sauna Löyly, located just 2 kilometers outside the city center, is a must-visit during your 48 hours in Helsinki. For €19 per person, you can indulge in 2.5 hours of pure joy, hopping between three different saunas, doing some sea swimming, and sipping on tasty Finnish coffee. There are three different saunas to choose from, including a traditional smoke sauna, which is a must-try. Adding water is an important part of the experience, and locals are always around to help. Löyly is an incredible way to immerse yourself in Finnish sauna culture.

Climb The Cathedral Steps 

Helsinki’s got no shortage of stunning landmarks, but there’s something about the Helsinki Cathedral that makes it stand out from the rest. Helsinki cathedral is drenched in history, with its construction dating back to the 19th century when Finland was still under Russian rule, and the landmark is the first sight for seafarers arriving to the port. So, it’s no surprise that this landmark has become the icon of Helsinki. 

Even today, the cathedral is still a sight to behold and easily recognizable with its grand domes, crowned with twelve apostles watching over Helsinki. If you have the time, take a look inside the cathedral. You’ll find that it’s unlike many other grand cathedrals that are adorned in gold and jewels and if, you’re up for a climb, you can take the steps to the rooftop and bask in the panoramic views of the city. Once you’ve explored the inside, take a walk down the street right opposite the cathedral to get THE shot of it peeking out the top. 👇

Sure, as an iconic landmark it’s definitely going to be packed with tourists, especially during the morning when the tour groups usually arrive. I’d plan your visit for the afternoon as nothing can put a damper on a beautiful photo like a billion photobomb of tour buses.

So if you’re a keen history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just someone who’s looking for that perfect moment for the gram, a visit to the Helsinki Cathedral is an absolute must during your 48 hours in Helsinki. 

Visit The Oodi Library 

For all the fans of architecture out there, you simply must add the Oodi Library to your Helsinki itinerary. This architectural masterpiece was gifted to the city by the people of Helsinki to make the 100th year anniversary of Finlans’d independence. And while you might think a library would not be a must-see when you only have 48 hours, Oodi Library is a modern, three story building that’s so much more than a place to borrow books. Only one of the floors is dedicated to actual books, the rest is a hub of activity that offers visitors a cultural experience from art exhibits, music performances, and much much more.

Unlike traditional libraries, Oodi is a vibrant community hub with a wide range of amenities such as restaurants, coffee shops, social areas, and even a kitchen for rent. And don’t forget about the jaw-dropping design! It’s so impressive, walking tours stop by just to showcase it to tourists. So whether you’re a bookworm or just looking for a beautiful spot to relax, Oodi Library is a must-visit attraction during your 48 hours in Helsinki.

Drink Shed Loads Of Coffee 

You might think of Italy as the coffee capital of Europe, but hold up a second, because Finland puts all other countries to shame when it comes to caffeine consumption. Believe it or not, Finnish people drink more coffee per capita than any other nation on earth. That’s right, a whopping eight or nine cups of coffee a day is the norm here, with some locals even drinking as many as 30 cups (yikes!). 

However, if you are expecting to see a Starbucks on every corner, think again. Unlike most other countries, Finland isn’t swamped with multinational coffee chains. In fact, the only place you’ll find a Starbucks is in the capital city of Helsinki and its airport. But don’t fret, there’s no shortage of caffeine-fueled options. Finland has an impressive number of national chains, indie coffee shops and even local corner stores that serve up steaming pots of coffee. So, whether you prefer a latte or an espresso, 48 hours is enough to find you’re find your perfect cup of joe in Helsinki. 

You’ll also be pleased to hear that coffee is almost always served alongside cake in Helsinki, the duo is practically a national obsession! In fact, the Finnish language even has a specific term for it: kakkukahvi, which means coffee and cake. And we’re not just talking about any cake – it’s typically a sweet bun topped with delicious vanilla icing, known locally as pulla. So, if you’re visiting Finland and want to experience the true essence of Finnish coffee culture, be sure to indulge in a slice of cake or a pulla alongside your coffee.

Speaking of coffee… 

Have Lunch At Cafe Regatta 

For slice of authentic Finnish culture while spending 48 hours in Helsinki? The make sure you venture out to Cafe Regatta! A quintessential Finnish cafe with beautiful views of the Baltic Sea, this charming cafe is a cozy oasis not to far from the hustle and bustle of the city. With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sweet cinnamon buns filling the air, it’s the perfect spot to warm up by a roaring fire and soak up some local culture. Plus, with its picturesque setting and cozy interior, it’s no wonder Cafe Regatta is one of the most Instagrammable cafes in Helsinki. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it during your 48 hours in Helsinki. 

Visit The National Museum Of History 

Before going to Helsinki, I had no idea about Finland’s rich and intricate history that dates back to the Ice Age. It’s incredible to think that Finland has only been an independent nation for a little over a century! The country’s colonial history is quite complex, with the Swedes and Russians taking turns to invade and rule it.

Finland was under Swedish rule for centuries, until the 19th century when the Russians took over. As Finland sat in the middle of these two powers, it was constantly caught in battles between them. The Russia-Sweden war of the hats in the 18th century is one of the most famous examples of these conflicts. And it’s not just history you can learn about – the museum delves into the world of saunas, and Finlans love of heavy metal music (complete with headphones to listen to some amazing bands!). It’s fascinating to see how all of these things shaped modern-day Finland, and exploring the country’s history is a must-do for any visitor to Helsinki. 

Head To A Christmas Market

If there’s one thing Finns know how to do well, it’s the festive season. As early as December rolls around, you’ll find the streets buzzing with pikkujoulu (or “little Christmas”) parties, where folks come together to celebrate the holidays. And of course, no holiday celebration is complete without a mug of piping hot glögi, Finland’s take on mulled wine. With the air thick with holiday cheer and the sounds of carolers in the background, it’s hard not to get swept up in the magic of the season.

Sail Over To Suomenlinna Island 

Sometimes a city-break calls for a break from the city. When spending 48 hours in Helsinki, a trip over to Suomenlinna Island should definitely be on your must-see list. Trust me, it’s worth it. Just a 10 minute ferry ride from Helsinki, you will be transported to Finland’s magical natural world. It’s not surprising that Suomenlinna is the on the most popular tourist attraction in Helsinki, with it’s stunning sea views, historic fortifications, and picturesque scenery. Once you arrive on the island, there is plenty to explore with six difference museums, breathtaking architecture and the chance to go on guided tours. 

Getting to Suomenlinna Island is easy, you just hop on a ferry and leave the mainland behind. The ferry runs daily from Helsinki’s main dock and only costs 5 euros for one way, or included in your transport card. The ferry operates from 6 am until midnight, so you can find a time that fits into your 48 hours in Helsinki itinerary that suits you. And no matter the weather, there are indoor and outdoor seats available for you to take in the views as you approach this magical island.

Related: From Helsinki: Ferry Ride to Suomenlinna & Walking Tour