E n g l i s h Finland VISITORS GUIDE

Transcription

1 English F i n l an d VISITORS GUIDE

2 Welcome to HELSINKI! This year Helsinki will be in the spotlight of the design world as the city celebrates its year as World Design Capital alongside its neighbouring municipalities of Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen and Lahti. Hundreds of events related to design culture will be staged throughout the year. At the same time Helsinki is celebrating its 200th anniversary as the capital of Finland. This historical year will also be brought to life with a wide range of special events. The summer of 2012 will offer a chance to enjoy thrilling sporting events, as the Ice Hockey World Championships take over the city in May, followed by the European Athletics Championships in June and July. This year you will get to experience the vast range of events that this maritime city has to offer. Enjoy your stay with us! Helsinki and the neighbouring municipalities of Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen together form Greater Helsinki with a population of over one million. You will not notice any borders between the municipalities, as the distances are short, connections excellent and services functional. You will find all the major sights and attractions in this brochure. Tip! You will find Helsinki Region Tourist Information in Terminal 2A at Helsinki Airport. The Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau complies with the principles of responsibility in all its activities. The website includes a section on Sustainable Tourism (www. visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki For You > Responsibly) where you can find out more about ecofriendly companies in Helsinki. The section lists eco-friendly accommodation outlets, restaurants, shopping, travel companies, and sights and attractions. 2

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4 CONTENTS Helsinki s history 5 Helsinki and Finland in figures 5 Essential sights 6 Historic centre 8 Suomenlinna 10 City centre and Kamppi 12 Other interesting sights and attractions 16 Sightseeing tours and excursions 21 Maritime Helsinki 24 World Design Capital Helsinki Architecture 34 Family attractions 38 Map 42 Places on the map 44 Public transport 45 Services 46 Tourist Information 48 Shopping 50 Wellness and exercise 54 Finnish cuisine 56 Restaurants 58 Cafés 61 Bars and nightlife 62 Winter Helsinki 64 Museums and exhibitions 66 Theatres and cinemas 70 Music 71 Events in Outside Helsinki Helsinki City Tourism Brochure Helsinki Visitors Guide 2012 Published and produced by Helsinki Travel Marketing Ltd and Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau Translated into English by Crockford Communications Design and layout by Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau Printed in Finland by Forssa Print Printed on Novapress Silk 60 g and Multiart Silk 130 g Photos from Helsinki City Image Bank, Helsinki Tourism Material Bank and advertisers Cover image: Valtteri Hirvonen / Lauri Eriksson & Company ISBN (print), ISBN (web) This brochure includes commercial advertising. The information within this brochure was updated in autumn The publisher is not responsible for possible changes or for the correctness of contact information, opening times, prices or other related information mentioned in this brochure. Wheelchair access Fun for children Free admission 4

5 HISTORY Sweden s King Gustavus Vasa founded Helsinki at the mouth of Vantaanjoki River in 1550 to compete with Tallinn for Baltic Sea trade. The centre of Helsinki was moved to its current location in the 1600s. In 1748 Sweden began construction of the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress off the coast of Helsinki to counter the growing threat from Russia. As a result of the war between Sweden and Russia, Finland became an autonomous grand duchy of Russia in Helsinki was made the new capital in A monumental Empire-style city plan was drawn up to reflect the power of Russia and the Tsar. Finland became independent in 1917, and Helsinki assumed the demanding new role of capital of the young republic. Recovering from the hardships of war, Helsinki hosted the Summer Olympics in The games created an international reputation for Helsinki as an efficient and friendly host city. Finland became an EU Member State in Helsinki was one of nine European Cities of Culture in In 2012 Helsinki is celebrating its 200th anniversary as the capital of Finland and has the honour of serving as the official World Design Capital. HELSINKI IN FIGURES Helsinki founded in 1550 Capital of Finland since 1812 Population: 592,000 Population of Greater Helsinki: 1.3 million Finnish-speakers: 83.2% Swedish-speakers: 6.0% Other language groups: 10.8% Foreign nationals: 7.2% Evangelical Lutherans: 67% Orthodox: 2% Total area: 716 km 2 Hotels: 53 Restaurants: approx. 1,000 Museums: 80 Universities: 7 Technical universities/polytechnics: 6 Average temperatures: yearly: +7.6 C warmest month: July C coldest month: February +0.2 C Further information: and FINLAND IN FIGURES Independent since 1917 Total area: 338,436 km 2 Population: 5.3 million EU member since 1995 Introduced euro in

6 ESSENTIAL SIGHTS Linnanmäki Amusement Park Linnanmäki is the most popular amusement park in Finland and has the biggest selection of rides in Northern Europe. The sounds and smells are the highlight of the summer for a million visitors each year! See page 38 Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress Suomenlinna is one of seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Finland. The ferry ride itself is a fun experience, allowing you to see and photograph Helsinki from the sea. Suomenlinna attracts visitors of all ages with its bastion walls, canons, tunnels, museums, restaurants and more! See page 10 Churches Over 150 years old, Helsinki Cathedral is arguably Finland s most iconic and photographed building. See page 8 Carved out of the granite bedrock and covered by a copper dome, Temppeliaukio Church is one of the most popular architectural attractions in Helsinki. See page 15 Completed in 1868 in the Katajanokka district of Helsinki, Uspenski Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. See page 9 Helsinki Zoo (Korkeasaari) Founded in 1889, Korkeasaari is one of the oldest zoos in the world. The zoo presents over 200 animal species from the Arctic tundra to the tropical rainforests. Korkeasaari also participates in the work to protect the habitats in the original homes of the various species. See page 38 6 Ateneum Art Museum Ateneum presents the largest collection of art in Finland, including famous Finnish paintings by Albert Edelfelt, Akseli Gallen- Kallela and Helene Schjerfbeck. See page 12

7 Sea Life Helsinki Travel from tropical waters to the Arctic Sea and discover hundreds of underwater creatures, from shrimp and starfish to sharks and stingrays. You can even walk through the largest aquarium via a glass tunnel. See page 38 Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma Kiasma breaks the barriers of traditional art museums with exhibitions that provoke and invite debate. The building itself is a work of art. See page 12 Natural History Museum The History of Life exhibition presents the development of living organisms from the Big Bang to dinosaurs and from giant mammals to the Ice Age. The interactive exhibits invite visitors to discover the astonishing diversity of nature. See page 13 National Museum of Finland Housed in a magnificent Jugend building, the museum presents the largest permanent exhibition of archaeology in the country and introduces visitors to Finnish life before industrialisation. See page 12 Seurasaari Open-Air Museum Seurasaari is a popular museum island that shows how Finns lived from the 1600s to the 1900s. The beautiful walking paths around the island are popular all year round. See page 20 7

8 HISTORIC CENTRE As early as the 1600s the town square, town hall, a church and a cemetery were located where Senate Square can be found today. The status of Helsinki was raised to that of capital of the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland in 1812, after which the historic Empire-style centre was constructed around Senate Square. 1. HELSINKI CATHEDRAL AND SENATE SQUARE Senate Square and its surroundings form a unique and cohesive example of Neoclassical architecture. The square is dominated by four buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel between 1822 and 1852: Helsinki Cathedral, the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland. Exhibitions and concerts are held in the Crypt of Helsinki Cathedral. Helsinki Cathedral, Unioninkatu 29, tel (0) Open: daily 9am-6pm, June- August 9am-12midnight (many weddings are held on Saturdays throughout the sum-mer between 11:30am and 6pm) 2. HELSINKI CITY HALL AND CITY HALL QUARTER The Market Quarter between the Market Square and Senate Square dates back originally to the 1700s. Architect C. L. Engel updated the buildings in the Empire style to fit in with the Senate Square. Until the early years of the 1900s the Market Quarter was the centre of commerce and social life in Helsinki. Today the quarter houses many design boutiques and restaurants. City Hall (Pohjoisesplanadi 11-13) was originally built in 1833 as the Hotel Seurahuone but has housed the city government since the 1930s. Situated in the lobby of City Hall, Virka Galleria presents exhibitions and events, and Virka Info provides information to residents. The services include six computers, a WLAN connection and a well-stocked reading corner with magazines and newspapers. Open: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat- Sun 10am-4pm. Free admission HELSINKI CITY MUSEUM To mark our year as World Design Capital, the museum is presenting a special exhibition entitled Design in Helsinki Films. The museum also shows daily films about Helsinki in Finnish and Swedish, as well as in English during the summer in the Kino Engel cinema. Sofiankatu 4, tel (0) Open from 15 February 2012 onwards: Mon-Wed, Fri 9am- 5pm, Thu 9am-7pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm 4. Sederholm House presents special exhibitions and is itself the oldest surviving stone building in the city centre, dating back to Aleksanterinkatu 16-18, tel (0) Open 1-31 January, 15 May-26 August and from 21 November onwards: Wed, Fri-Sun 11am- 5pm, Thu 11am-7pm For other Helsinki City Museum exhibitions, see page MARKET SQUARE Helsinki s most famous market sells traditional market foods and treats, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs. There is also a heated café tent where you can comfortably sip steaming hot coffee even on the coldest days in winter. Open: Mon-Fri 6:30am-6pm, Sat 6:30am-4pm, May-September also Sun 10am-5pm 6. OLD MARKET HALL The Old Market Hall alongside the Market Square has been a meeting place for local food lovers and a popular tourist attraction since it first opened in Under the same roof you can taste traditional delicacies and even try exotic products from Lapland. Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-4pm 8

9 Uspenski cathedral 7. ESPLANADE PARK Situated in the heart of Helsinki, the Esplanade serves as a promenade for tourists and a place to relax for city residents. The park and Espa Stage host a wide range of events, especially from May to September HAVIS AMANDA Designed by Ville Vallgren and built in Paris in 1906, this famous bronze fountain was erected beside the Market Square in According to Vallgren, the figure of the maiden rising out of the Baltic Sea symbolises Helsinki and its rebirth. Between the Market Square and Esplanade Park 9. PRESIDENTIAL PALACE The building was originally designed by Pehr Granstedt and completed in 1820, after which C. L. Engel adapted it for use by the Tsar. Since Finland s independence the building has served as the official residence of the President, although today it is used primarily for presidential functions. The official residence of President Tarja Halonen is Mäntyniemi in the Meilahti district, near Seurasaari Island. Pohjoisesplanadi USPENSKI CATHEDRAL Completed in 1868 in the Katajanokka district of Helsinki, Uspenski Cathedral is the largest Orthodox church edifice in Western Europe. With its golden cupolas and redbrick facade, the church is one of the clearest symbols of the Russian impact on Finnish history. The interior reflects the Byzantine traditions of the Orthodox Church. Kanavakatu 1, tel (0) Open: Mon closed, Tue-Fri 9:30am-4pm, Sat 9:30am-2pm, Sun 12noon-3pm (on holidays and preceding evenings open only during services) 9

10 Suomenlinna is a maritime fortress that was built off the coast of Helsinki in 1748 where you can get a real feel for Finland s position between East and West; Suomenlinna was shaped by three distinct historic eras when helped defend first Sweden, then Russia and ultimately Finland. Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a notable example of European military architecture. SUOMENLINNA 10 Suomenlinna is among the most popular sights in Finland and a living district that is home to 850 city residents. With its museums and events, Suomenlinna offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages, who can also enjoy the islands enchanting cafes and cosy restaurants. Children can have a great time exploring the many tunnels of the old fortress. Visiting year round It is good to reserve at least 2 to 4 hours for visiting Suomenlinna. The vast fortress is best explored on foot, so prepare for some hiking with good shoes and a windbreaker. Suomenlinna is open year-round, although some facilities are open only in the summer months. To get to Suomenlinna you have to take a boat. The municipal ferry from the Market Square operates year round, while the JT-Line waterbus operates in summertime. The crossing takes between 15 and 20 minutes. The municipal ferry accepts Helsinki Region Transport tickets and the Helsinki Card as payment. For more information about tickets, see page 45. Guided tours The Ehrensvärd Society offers guided tours that bring to life the colourful history of the fortress. In summertime guided tours are offered in English, Finnish, Swedish and Russian. In wintertime guided tours are offered in English and Russian. Tours can also be ordered in many other languages in advance. Cultural experiences Each year dozens of high-quality cultural and music events are held at Suomenlinna, including the Les Lumiéres and Guard s Band festivals, the Suomenlinna Summer Theatre, Viapori Jazz and Viapori Winter Blues. Tip! You can purchase a combined ticket for all Suomenlinna museums and exhibitions!

11 MUSEUMS Suomenlinna Museum The Suomenlinna Museum at the Visitor Centre presents the history of the fortress from the 1700s to today. The widescreen multivisual presentation Suomenlinna Experience is shown every half-hour in the museum auditorium, taking the audience through the fascinating phases of Suomenlinna s 260-year history. Visitor Centre open: 2 January-30 April: daily 10:30am-4:30pm 2 May-30 September: daily 10am-6pm 1 October-31 December: daily 10:30am-4:30pm 6 December, December, 1 January, 6 April: closed Suomenlinna Museum, widescreen show and exhibition: adults 6.50, students and pensioners 4, visitors under 18 and with Helsinki Card free of charge Guided walking tours: adults 9, children (7-17) 4, children under 7 and with Helsinki Card free of charge, family ticket (2+2) 18 Other museums at Suomenlinna: Ehrensvärd Museum Toy Museum Vesikko Submarine Manege Military Museum Customs Museum Further information, opening times and prices: Tel (0) , info@suomenlinna.fi Visitor Centre* (1), Tourist Information, Suomenlinna Museum, guided tours, widescreen show 1. Visitor Centre Tourist Information Suomenlinna Museum 2. Ehrensvärd Museum 3. Toy Museum, café* 4. Manege Military Museum* 5. Vesikko Submarine* 6. Customs Museum* 7. Restaurant Walhalla, Walhalla observation terrace & Pizzeria Nikolai* 8. Restaurant Suomenlinna Brewery 9. Restaurant Café Chapman 10. Café Piper* 11. Café Vanille 12. Café Bar Valimo, guest harbour* 13. Club Restaurant Klubi Summer theatre* 8. Galleria Rantakasarmi 15. Arts and Crafts Summer Shop b34* Museum Shop 16. Ceramics Studio Pot Viapori* 17. OloOk Gym 18. Hostel Suomenlinna 19. Suomenlinna Library 20. Suomenlinna Church 21. Japanese tea room Tokuyûan, Glass Studio Hytti ry* 22. Bastion Hårleman 23. Shop, Siwa 8. Suomenlinna kiosk/post office 24. Artillery Bay summer kiosk* 25. Tenalji von Fersen, banqueting hall 26. Picnic area* 27. Swimming beach* 28. Galleria Augusta 29. Café Jääkellari and art shop Main sights 1. Suomenlinna Church 2. Castle Courtyard, Tomb of Augustin Ehrensvärd 3. Dry dock, panorama terrace 4. Kustaanmiekka sandbanks and guns 5. King s Gate * open year round. Check the opening hours at Visitor Centre or 11

12 CITY CENTRE AND KAMPPI The centre of Helsinki is packed with things to see and do, and everything is close together, so you can see a lot in one day! Kamppi Mannerheimintie 6 8 Simonkatu 13 1 Kaivokatu 2 Aleksanterinkatu CENTRAL RAILWAY STATION Considered by many to be the crowning achievement of legendary architect Eliel Saarinen, Helsinki s Central Railway Station is one of the most impressive examples of Finnish architecture. The granite monument represents the transition from National Romanticism to a new Functionalist style. The station was opened in The Tourist Information and Helsinki Expert offices are open year round: Mon-Fri 10am-4:30pm, Sat 10am- 4pm (summertime: Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm) Main Hall open daily: 5am to 1:30am 2. ATENEUM ART MUSEUM Ateneum is the National Gallery of Finland. The collection features Finnish art from the 1750s to the 1960s and western art from the latter half of the 1800s to the 1950s, including many national treasures. The main exhibition in 2012 presents the art of Helene Schjerfbeck, one of the most beloved Finnish female painters. Kaivokatu 2, tel (0) Open: Tue, Fri 10am-6pm, Wed-Thu 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Entrance fees: adults 10/8, visitors under 18 free of charge 3. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPO- RARY ART KIASMA The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma breaks the barriers of traditional art museums and follows the latest developments in the visual arts. Its collections include Finnish and international art especially Nordic, Baltic and Russian from the 1960s onwards. Works displayed in the collections and exhibitions include installations, paintings, media art and photography. Kiasma is part of the Finnish National Gallery. Mannerheiminaukio 2 tel (0) Open from 20 Jan onwards: Wed-Thu 10am-8:30pm, Fri 10am-10pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm Entrance fees: adults 8/6, visitors under 18 free of charge 4. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF FINLAND The museum s main exhibitions present Finnish life from prehistoric times to the present. The workshop VINTTI is an interactive exhibition especially for children. The magnificent Jugend building was designed by legendary architect trio Gesellius-Lindgren-Saarinen and was completed in Mannerheimintie 34 tel (0) Open: Tue 11am-8pm, Wed-Sun 11am-6pm Entrance fees: adults 7/5, visitors under 18 free of charge, free admission on Tuesdays 5:30pm- 8pm, changes possible

13 5. NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM The museum presents three exhibitions: Finnish Nature, History of Life, and Story of the Bones. Visitors can dive beneath the surface of the Baltic Sea and marvel at the collection of bones and magnificent dinosaurs. Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 tel (0) Open: Tue-Wed and Fri 9am-4pm, Thu 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm Entrance fees: adults 6, children and discount groups 3, free admission on Thursdays 4pm-6pm 6. LASIPALATSI The Glass Palace is an icon of Functionalist architecture that was designed by Viljo Revell. Completed in the 1930s, Lasipalatsi today houses restaurants, cafés and a media centre. Mannerheimintie KAMPPI CENTRE AND NARINKKATORI SQUARE This shopping and travel centre is packed with shops and restaurants, as well as two bus terminals and a metro station. The adjacent Narinkkatori Square hosts a variety of events. One of the architecture projects for World Design Capital Helsinki 2012, a chapel, will open in spring Shops open: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm and Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 12noon- 6pm/9pm, plus in June-August and November-December Sun 12noon 6pm/9pm 8. LAITURI CITY PLANNING DEPARTMENT S INFORMATION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE The City Planning Department s modern new info centre in Narinkkatori Square provides visitors with information about how Helsinki is developing. Narinkka 2, tel (0) Open: Tue-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12noon-4pm See also page 67 laituri.hel.fi 9. TENNISPALATSI A fully restored Functionalist building that was completed in 1938, the Tennis Palace allows visitors to enjoy movies and the arts, as well as cafés and restaurants, all under the same roof. Finnkino operates a 14-screen cinema on the premises (see page 70). Tennis Palace Art Museum presents several international touring exhibitions each year. Salomonkatu 15 tel (0) Open: Tue-Sun 11am-7pm Entrance fees: adults 8/6, visitors under 18 free of charge, free admission on Fridays 11am-4pm The Museum of Cultures presents ethnographic exhibitions. Eteläinen Rautatiekatu 8, tel (0) Open: Tue 11am-8pm, Wed-Sun 11am-6pm Free admission 13

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15 10. TEMPPELIAUKIO CHURCH Quarried out of the natural bedrock, Temppeliaukio Church is one of Helsinki s most important tourist attractions and a popular venue for concerts. Lutherinkatu 3, tel (0) Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11:45am-5pm (Closed during religious services) PARLIAMENT HOUSE Finland s 200-seat parliament gathers in this impressive building representing 1920s Classicism. Sessions of the parliament can be observed by the public on Tuesdays to Fridays. Mannerheimintie 30 tel (0) Guided tours in English, Finnish and Swedish: Sat 11am and 12:30pm (except in July-August), July-August Mon-Fri at 11am (Finnish, Swedish) and 1pm (English). The Parliament extension houses additional workrooms for parliamentarians. This building also houses a useful info desk and the Café Pikku Parlamentti. Arkadiankatu HELSINKI GENERAL POST OFFICE, POST MU- SEUM AND LIBRARY 10 The Post Museum exhibits, researches and preserves items and materials related to the 360-year history of Finland Post. The Museum Shop sells an attractive selection of paper and gift items. Asema-aukio 5 H tel (0) Open: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat- Sun 12noon-5pm Entrance fees: 6/3, visitors under 18 free of charge See page 47 for information about Library UNIVERSITY OF HEL- SINKI BOTANIC GARDEN, KAISANIEMI Founded in 1829, the Botanic Garden and its fabulous greenhouses can be admired year round. Unioninkatu 44 / Kaisaniemenranta 2 tel (0) Greenhouses open: Tue, Wed & Fri 9am-4pm, Thu 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm. Garden gates open daily 9am-8pm Entrance fees: adults 6, children and discount groups 3 Tip! Just a stone s throw from the city centre is one of the city s oldest and most popular parks, Kaivopuisto. The proximity of the sea, the granite cliffs and the green lawns create a perfect setting for relaxation and recreation. At the highest point of the park is the Ursa Observatory. Many cafés and summer restaurants can be found along the shoreline and on the nearby islands. Just down the coast is the well-to-do district of Eira, which is renowned for its Jugend and Classic architecture. It s easy to get to Kaivopuisto and Eira on foot or by tram (3B, 3T or 9). 15

16 OTHER INTERESTING SIGHTS TÖÖLÖNLAHTI BAY The park around Töölönlahti Bay begins in the heart of Helsinki. A popular walking path circles the bay. The wooden villas of the Linnunlaulu ( Birdsong ) district are an evocative reminder of Helsinki s building heritage. Finlandia Park is a new centre for culture and events that is being developed along the southern shoreline FINLANDIA hall Overlooking Töölönlahti Bay is the famous concert and meeting hall designed by legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. Guided tours take approximately 30 minutes, or you can visit the exhibitions that are held at Finlandia Hall. The Café Veranda is situated in the new extension of the building. Mannerheimintie 13 E, tel (0) /switchboard Open: Mon-Fri 7:30am-5pm (Service Point). Café Veranda: 10am-5pm, concert evenings open to 12midnight. Guided tour prices (English): adults 11.50, students, pensioners and children (under 16) Group tours by arrangement only HELSINKI MUSIC CENTRE Opened in autumn 2011, Helsinki Music Centre is home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Radio Symphony Orchestra and Sibelius Academy. The acoustics by Yasuhisa Toyota have been described as perfect. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions, a shop and a cafe. Mannerheimintie 13 a Page HAKASALMI VILLA A new exhibition Out to Sea: 150 Years of Sailing in Helsinki looks at the maritime past of Helsinki from the perspective of yachting as a pastime. tel (09) Open: Wed-Sun 11am 5pm, Thu 11am 7pm 4. FINNISH NATIONAL OPERA Completed in the early 1990s, the opera house has hosted scores of opera and ballet performances. Guided tours of the building and backstage are offered in Finnish on Wednesdays at 2.30pm and take approximately one hour (see the opera website for tour times in summer). Tours in other languages and at other times are available upon request at group prices. See also page 71. Sales service: tel (0) (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) Ticket sales: tel (0) (Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 3pm-6pm, Sundays and holidays 2 hours before performance) Guided tours: adults 8, students and children 5 tip! The summer café in the Blue Villa (Sininen Huvila Linnunlauluntie 11) offers a splendid view over Töölönlahti Bay. Open in summertime. 16

17 5 6 4 Helsinginkatu Mannerheimintie Töölönlahti OLYMPIC STADIUM Helsinki s Olympic Stadium has been the arena of emotional sporting and musical events since The Games of the XV Olympiad were held here in The stadium tower is 72 metres high and offers a spectacular view over Helsinki. The stadium was the result of an architectural competition won by Yrjö Lindegren and Toivo Jäntti with their aesthetically pure Functionalist design. Olympic Stadium, Paavo Nurmentie tel (0) Tower open: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm, closed during stadium events Prices: adults 5, children (under 16) 2, groups (over 10 persons) 3/adult, 1/child, guide/tour leader/teacher free of charge 2 discount to the Sports Museum when you show your ticket to the Tower. Children free of charge. Adult admission to the Tower is 3 when you show your ticket to the Sports Museum. The Sports Museum of Finland is a must for sports fans, with almost 30,000 objects and over 200,000 photographs on display. Located beside the Olympic Stadium Tower tel (0) Open: Mon-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat- Sun 12noon-4pm Prices: adults 5/3, visitors under 18 free of charge 6. WINTER GARDEN Helsinki City Winter Garden features over 200 plant species, including one-hundred-yearold camellia trees, palms cacti and flowering money plants. Hammarskjöldintie 1 TÖÖLÖ DISTRICT Sibelius Monument One of Helsinki s favourite tourist attractions, the Sibelius Monument can be found in Sibelius Park in the Taka-Töölö district. Sibelius Park was named in 1945 to honour the 80th birthday of composer Jean Sibelius. The Sibelius Monument itself is the work of Eila Hiltunen and was unveiled in Mechelininkatu 38 To get to the Sibelius Monument take Bus 24 or Tram 3T A stone s throw from the Sibelius Monument is Café Regatta (Merikannontie 10), where you can enjoy delicious cinnamon buns in an idyllic setting. In the yard you can even grill sausages while admiring the view to the sea. Open year round (weather permitting). KALLIO district The former working-class district of Kallio is one of the characterful parts of Helsinki. Favoured these days by artists and students, the district s bohemian bars and trendy boutiques attract visitors with a sense of adventure. It is easy to get to Kallio on foot or by tram (3B or 3T). TIP! Up with Kallio invites visitors to discover the neighbourhood s unique boutiques and restaurants. See the map, blog and descriptions online at: You can also explore Kallio with the help of our brochure See Helsinki on Foot, which is available from Tourist Information or from our website Magnificent flowers at the Winter Garden Opening hours: Tue 9am-3pm, Wed-Fri 12noon-3pm, Sat- Sun 12noon-4pm. Closed Mondays, Christmas Eve and Day, and Midsummer s Eve and Day. Free admission. Wheelchair access. Location: Hammarskjöldintie

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19 Kustaa Vaasan tie Vanhakaupunki Toukola Hämeentie 1 2 Arabianranta 3 4 OLD TOWN AND ARABIA Helsinki was originally established at the mouth of the Vantaanjoki River in 1550 by King Gustav Vasa of Sweden. Today this area is a modern centre for sciences and the arts, as well as a waterfront residential district that can be easily reached by Tram 6 or 8. Arabianranta is one of the main attractions of World Design Capital Iittala, Finlayson, Opa and Pentik factory outlets Open: Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm 3. The Technical Museum alongside the Old Town Rapids presents the achievements of old and new technology and hosts related exhibitions. Viikintie 1, puh. (09) Open: 3 January-3 June: Tue-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Open: 5 June-31 August: Tue- Sun 11am-5pm Open: 1 September-29 December: Tue-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Entrance fees: adults 6, children (7-17) 1 Tip! Works of art can be found among the new residential buildings and gardens in the Arabianranta district, as well as land for cultivating crops. You can pick up a special brochure about the Arabianranta district from Tourist Information! The area is home to the 130-year-old Arabia porcelain factory, museum and gallery, as well as factory outlets. Arabia continues to be a pioneer in modern Scandinavian design, combining minimalistic style with everyday practicality. 1. Arabia Museum and Gallery Hämeentie 135, tel (0) Museum open January-April: Wed-Fri 12noon-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm Museum open May-August: Tue-Fri 12noon-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm Entrance fees: adults 4, pensioners, students and groups You can also enjoy coffee and food beside the rapids at the Restaurant Koskenranta (Katariina Saksilaisen katu 9). Bus 68 or 71 from the Railway Station Square or 74 from Hakaniemi. Kumpula Botanic Garden Jyrängöntie 2, tel (0) Open 1 May-30 September: daily 9am-7pm, wintertime closed. Changes possible. Entrance fees: adults 4, children and discount groups 2 Factory tours: reservations tel (0) (Mon- Fri 1pm-4pm) Guided tours: Mon-Fri 40 (1-10 persons), larger groups 3.50/person 19

20 SEURASAARI Seurasaari is a popular museum island and recreational area located fifteen minutes by bus from the city centre. The wooden buildings at the Open-Air Museum represent Finnish building traditions from the 18th to the 20th century. Built in 1685, the Karuna Church is one of the most popular venues in Helsinki for summer weddings. During the summer season various workshops and events are organised at the museum presenting traditional handicrafts, customs and folklore. Folk dancing performances are also held in summertime. A walk around the island is a great way to enjoy the beautiful nature and fresh air throughout the year. In June, Helsinki s traditional Midsummer celebrations are held on Seurasaari Island. Family events are also held at Christmastime, Shrovetide and Easter time. An art installation entitled Kalevalakehto Shaman s Haven of the Kalevala is on display at Seurasaari until August Kalevalakehto is intended for use for small gatherings and meditation. Open-Air Museum. Opening hours May and 1-15 September: Mon-Fri 9am- 3pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Opening hours 1 June-31 August: Mon-Sun 11am-5pm Prices: 6/5, visitors under 18 free of charge, free admission with the Helsinki Card. Free admission to the island. Cafe Shop Mieritz open 1 September 30 May Sat-Sun 11am 4pm and 1 June 31 August daily 11am 4pm. Festival Grounds kiosk open on weekends and holidays 11am-4pm. Café-Restaurant 1952 open 1 May-31 August daily 11am-8pm and 1 September-30 April on weekends 11am-4pm (weather permitting). To get to Seurasaari, take Bus 24 from beside the Swedish Theatre in the city centre. Further information: Seurasaari Foundation, tel (0) and Open-Air Museum, tel (0) , Ticket Office for Open-Air Museum 2. Karuna Church 3. Festival Grounds 4. Kyykkä Playground 5. Seurasaari Summer Restaurant 6. Seurasaari Nude Bathing Beach 7. Pukkisaari Ancient Village 8. Urho Kekkonen Museum, Tamminiemi 9. Meilahti Art Museum 10. Cafe Shop Mieritz

21 SIGHTSEEING TOURS AND EXCURSIONS Helsinki is a pocket-sized metropolis that you can explore easily on foot. You can get even more out of the city by taking a sightseeing tour by bus, boat or tram, or even by joining a guided walking tour. BY YOURSELF Tram 3T offers you a simple and affordable way to see Helsinki s sights. The route passes the Temppeliaukio Church, the Olympic Stadium, the National Opera and Senate Square. You can pick up the Sightseeing on 3T/3B brochure from Helsinki Region Transport ticket desks or Tourist Information. The brochure includes descriptions of the sights along the route. For more information about public transportation tickets, see page 45. Departures: along route, for example from the Market Square or Central Railway Station Duration: approx. 1 hour TIP! The brochure See Helsinki on Foot is also available from Tourist Information and our website The brochure makes it easy to explore the city along five well-marked routes highlighting Helsinki s architecture, design, museums and shops. Languages: English, Finnish, Russian and Swedish 21

22 Guided design tours An easy way to discover the Design District is to take the Helsinki Design Walk, a twohour guided tour in English of the top sights. Helsinki Expert, tel (0) SIGHTSEEING TOURS BY BUS Helsinki Expert s Audio Sightseeing Tour introduces you to Helsinki s main sights in 12 languages (Chinese, English, Finnish, French, German, Helsinki dialect, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Russian, Spanish and Swedish). City sightseeing tours are offered daily all year round and depart from Esplanade Park (Fabianinkatu), the Olympic Terminal and Katajanokka Terminal. Tickets can be purchased from the point of departure. Prices: 28, 15 (children 7-16) and 11 (children 2-6 ). The Audio Sightseeing Tour is free of charge with the adult Helsinki Card. Purchase your tickets in advance from the online shop at and save 3. Reservations and enquiries: Helsinki Expert, tel (0) , sales@helsinkiexpert.fi In summertime you can also enjoy sightseeing around Helsinki on Strömma s Hop-On Hop- Off open double-decker bus. There are 11 stops throughout the city, and commentaries are provided in several languages through individual headsets. Choose from two routes: one taking in the north side of town and the other the south side. Season: May-September Prices: 25/ 30 Departures: 10am 4pm, every minutes, duration approx. 1 h/tour City Tour has two Hop-On Hop-Off routes. The Blue Tour reveals the Spirit of Helsinki, while the Red Tour presents Imperial Helsinki. Season: May-September Departures: every half hour Duration: approx. 1 h/tour 22

23 SIGHTSEEING CRUISES Marvel at Helsinki s breathtaking archipelago aboard a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Enjoy the summer with a seafood lunch or romantic dinner onboard. There are regular departures from the Market Square throughout the summer, and as many as 10 languages are offered. IHA-Lines tel (0) Royal Line tel (0) Strömma tel (0) Ferries to Suomenlinna and Pihlajasaari Island JT-Line tel (0) All ferry companies also offer charter cruises. 23

24 MARITIME HELSINKI Helsinki s proximity to the sea offers an endless number of opportunities in summer and winter alike. Helsinki s shoreline is adorned by around 100 kilometres of coast and over 300 islands. It is said that the sea gave birth to Helsinki and the harbour raised her. Helsinki is one of the most popular cruise ship destinations in the Baltic Sea region. Helsinki s South Harbour (Eteläsatama) in the heart of the city is one of Europe s most beautiful harbours. ARCHIPELAGO OUTINGS Guided cruises offer a convenient and fun way to explore Helsinki and its archipelago (see page 23). Sightseeing cruises depart from the Market Square from May to the end of September. You can also hop aboard a ferry or waterbus to Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, and in summertime also to Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island and the historical town of Porvoo. Many of the nearby islands are open for recreational use and can be reached in just minutes by regular ferry services. The islands of Pihlajasaari and Uunisaari (see page 55) are particular popular places for spending sunny days in the archipelago. In summertime you can also make an outing to Söderskär lighthouse. Further information: and MARITIME CUISINE Helsinki s island restaurants (see page 58) off the coast of Kaivopuisto Park are open from May to the end of September and can be reached by ferry from the mainland. Try also one of the popular lunch or dinner cruises departing from the Market Square. Participating HelsinkiMenu restaurants (see page 23) serve the best seasonal seafood dishes, including burbot and burbot roe in wintertime, perch, whitefish, pikeperch, salmon, herring and crayfish in summertime, and Baltic herring and vendace in the autumn. You can also enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee by the sea in the old Relandersgrund lighthouse ship at the end of Aleksanterinkatu street or at the cafes along Kaivopuisto Park (see page 61). GUEST HARBOURS Katajanokka Guest Harbour (120 mooring places) tel (0) Suomenlinna Guest Harbour (40 mooring places) tel (0) / +358 (0) Further information: > Boating Tip! Chart your maritime voyage yourself and hire a water taxi (main season: May-September): Water Taxi Helsinki tel (0) , Cardinal Marine Charter tel (0) Water Taxi M/S Pti Trou Noir tel (0) Helsinki Taxi Boat tel (0)

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26 26 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL HELSINKI 2012 CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI

27 OPEN HELSINKI FOR BETTER CITIES 27 Our city is your city Helsinki is also a centre of urban culture. An energetic, intimate and tolerant place that is alive both in the daytime and at night. The British lifestyle magazine Monocle recently ranked Helsinki as the most liveable city in the world. In our opinion, Helsinki is also one of the best travel destinations in the world. A city that is just the right size, where everything interesting is close together. A city of happy people that bubbles with positive creativity and is surrounded not only by nature but by everyday design. Such is World Design Capital Helsinki In 2012 Helsinki is proud to be World Design Capital together with its neighbouring municipalities Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen and Lahti. Travelling between them is easy and highly recommended. The official programme for WDC Helsinki 2012 includes around 300 special events and projects, all of which share the same goal: To find ways in which design can be used to make cities more functional and better places. For both residents and visitors. Design can be old or it can be new. Small or large. Beautiful The WDC Helsinki 2012 or controversial. Visible or invisible. Often design also serves programme includes a social purpose or the public interest. For example, public dozens of events and transport or healthcare cannot function efficiently without exhibitions that are precision planning. Design can also be found in everyday open to the public and things that visitors too can enjoy without even noticing: that you can find out Freewheeling bicycles, cleverly folded menus, coffee mugs more about on the that sit perfectly in your hand, fully reclining airplane following pages. By no seats, easy-to-read metro maps, perfectly ploughed streets, means all the events informative signposting and pleasant ferry terminals, not to can fit in this brochure, mention buses, trains and trams that always run on schedule, so visit our website regardless of the weather. for more information. You will also find a link to the handy WDC Helsinki 2012 smart phone application check it out. Dear Traveller, welcome to the World Design Capital Helsinki Our city is your city.

28 28 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL HELSINKI 2012 EVENTS NEW YEAR S EVE OF DESIGN Official opening of the WDC Helsinki 2012 on New Year s Eve in Senate Square. WHEN WHERE Senate Square, Helsinki INFORMATION DOCPOINT Documentary film festival exploring the meanings of good and not so good design. WHEN WHERE Cinemas throughout Helsinki INFORMATION WDC HELSINKI OPEN DOORS WEEKEND Open doors event presenting the program of the WDC Helsinki WHEN WHERE Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen, Lahti INFORMATION DESIGN GOES MATTOLAITURIT Urban festival brings together design and traditional Finnish rug washing piers. WHEN WHERE 13 rug washing piers along the coast of Helsinki INFORMATION MOA, MASTERS OF A! Design festival organized by Aalto University. WHEN WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION DESIGN DISTRICT HELSINKI WEEK Special events and offers throughout the Design District Helsinki. WHEN WHERE Design District Helsinki INFORMATION LASIPALATSI DESIGN MARKET Young designers present and sell their creations. WHEN WHERE Lasipalatsi Square, Helsinki INFORMATION HELSINKI DESIGN WEEK HABITARE International design community interacts with local designers and the general public. WHEN WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION OPENHOUSEHELSINKI Discover a different Design Capital with special guided tours of buildings and districts. WHEN September 2012 WHERE Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen, Vantaa, Lahti INFORMATION CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI

29 OPEN HELSINKI FOR BETTER CITIES 29 EXHIBITIONS DESIGNGALLERIA 12 Major exhibition of contemporary design. WHEN Entire year 2012 WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION DESIGNER PATHWAY Exhibition presenting the numerous phases of the design processes. WHEN WHERE Museum of Technology INFORMATION MORE FUNCTIONALISM, REINO! Exhibition exploring the world of films shot in Helsinki from the 1930s to the 1960s. WHEN WHERE Helsinki City Museum, main building INFORMATION BUILDERS OF THE FUTURE FINNISH DESIGN How did Finland develop into a world-leading centre of design after the wars? WHEN WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION INDEX: AWARD EXHIBITION Concrete examples of how design is improving everyday life throughout the world. WHEN WHERE Keskuskatu INFORMATION A TRADITION OF FUTURE What are the roles, dreams and responsibilities of designers in 2012? The centenary exhibition of the Finnish Association of Designers Ornamo seeks answers. WHEN WHERE Kunsthalle INFORMATION CHANGE: TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Can your own home be the most important environmental deed in your life? WHEN WHERE Museum of Finnish Architecture INFORMATION EVERY DAY DISCOVERIES INTERNATIONAL DESIGN HOUSES EXHIBITION Design concepts from all over the world to improve everyday life through play, memories and stories. WHEN WHERE Suvilahti, Helsinki INFORMATION HOME Exhibition exploring the ideal image of the home in different periods. WHEN WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION

30 30 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL HELSINKI 2012 PEOPLE & PLACES PAVILION The centre point of WDC Helsinki 2012 is itself a masterpiece of Finnish wood construction. WHEN May September 2012 WHERE Behind the Design Museum INFORMATION KALASATAMA SKATE PARK Skateboarders and urban culture beside the sea in a fantastic setting. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Kalasatama, Helsinki INFORMATION KAMPPI CHAPPEL OF SILENCE Not for religious services, just for quiet meditation. Open to all. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Narinkkatori, Helsinki INFORMATION KULTTUURISAUNA Design and sauna come together to create the eco-friendly Kulttuurisauna. WHEN Summer 2012 WHERE Hakaniemenranta, Helsinki INFORMATION OASIS A TRUE LIVING ROOM A true living room decorated in the courtyard (and a little inside). Make yourself at home! WHEN WHERE Annantalo Arts Centre, Helsinki INFORMATION E AT & DRINK TUKKUTORI HELSINKI WHOLESALE MARKET Food meets design at the historic wholesale market. Market stalls, shops, events and pop-up restaurants. WHEN September December 2012 WHERE Kalasatama, Helsinki INFORMATION THE THIRD SPACE TÖÖLÖ Korjaamo Culture Factory s new design, activity and service centre. Relax or work in this third space between home and the workplace. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Korjaamo Culture Factory INFORMATION WDC HELSINKI 2012 TERRACE WDC Helsinki 2012 terrace in the very heart of Helsinki. WHEN May-September WHERE Kolmen sepän aukio (Three Smiths Statue outside Stockmann) INFORMATION KÄÄNTÖPÖYTÄ URBAN GARDEN A gardening oasis in the centre of Helsinki alongside a historic railway depot. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Pasila, Helsinki INFORMATION CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI

31 OPEN HELSINKI FOR BETTER CITIES 31 FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES CHILDREN S BOOK CAFÉ Relaxed, creative and happy. Such is this book café designed by children. WHEN WHERE Annantalo Arts Centre INFORMATION BUILDING THE CITY! Children s architecture opera. Performances, sets and costumes by children. WHEN WHERE Museum of Finnish Architecture INFORMATION OF TOYS AND MEN History of toys, design and aesthetics from ancient Mesopotamia to the global information society of the 21st century. WHEN WHERE Helsinki Art Museum, Tennis Palace INFORMATION DON T FORGET THESE FONT WALK How is graphic design in evidence in our city? Napa Gallery s Font Walk map presents various public spaces where the font is present. WHEN WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION TRAM STOP PILOT How does a design tram stop look and feel? Check it out. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Kamppi, Helsinki INFORMATION FORTUM ENERGY BENCH Take a seat on an energy bench and send video greetings to YouTube. The energy benches can be found throughout Helsinki. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION C MY CITY CHILDREN S ARCHITECTURAL MAP A virtual map that lets children describe their city through words, images and video. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Internet INFORMATION BREAD LOOKS GOOD, TASTES GOOD The classic HOK-Elanto Kaurakakku multigrain oat bread returns to shops. Try it! WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Selected stores INFORMATION

32 32 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL HELSINKI 2012 CITIES OF ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN & LAHTI ESPOO WEEGEE EXHIBITION CENTRE One of Finland s most important exhibition centres. Home to EMMA, Espoo Museum of Modern Art, and other cultural establishments. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE WeeGee Exhibition Centre, Espoo INFORMATION THREE STORIES OF URBANISATION Exhibition that explores whether design can improve the world using examples from Africa and Asia. WHEN WHERE Helinä Rautavaara Museum, WeeGee, Espoo INFORMATION VANTAA 20X0 A JOURNEY INTO THE FUTURE What will the city of the future be like? WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Heureka, the Finnish Science Centre, Vantaa INFORMATION 6 SCENES OF BEAUTY Exhibition that juxtaposes design and fine art in a new and intriguing way. WHEN WHERE Vantaa Art Museum INFORMATION KAUNIAINEN STUDIO KUKKAPURO The studio of legendary Finnish designer Yrjö Kukkapuro will be opened to the public for the first time. WHEN August-October 2012 WHERE Studio Kukkapuro, Kauniainen INFORMATION RHYTHM Environmental artwork created by over 20,000 tulips. WHEN From WHERE Villa Valmogård, Kauniainen INFORMATION LAHTI EKOLANDIA Finnish design and visual art by means of spatial entities. WHEN WHERE Lahti City Museum / Lahti Art Museum INFORMATION FINNISH SKI FROM SKI SMITH TO INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER Finnish skis are world famous. How are they designed? WHEN WHERE Lahti City Museum / Ski Museum INFORMATION CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI