English F i n l an d VISITORS GUIDE
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 www.visithelsinki.fi 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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24 26 38 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 2012 26 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 2012 72 Outside Helsinki 77 58 64 72 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 978-952-272-049-8 (print), ISBN 978-952-272-050-4 (web) This brochure includes commercial advertising. The information within this brochure was updated in autumn 2011. 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
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 1809. Helsinki was made the new capital in 1812. 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 1952. The games created an international reputation for Helsinki as an efficient and friendly host city. Finland became an EU Member State in 1995. Helsinki was one of nine European Cities of Culture in 2000. 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 +17.4 C coldest month: February +0.2 C Further information: www.hel.fi and www.helsinki.fi FINLAND IN FIGURES Independent since 1917 Total area: 338,436 km 2 Population: 5.3 million EU member since 1995 Introduced euro in 2002 5
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
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
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. +358 (0)9 2340 6120 Open: daily 9am-6pm, June- August 9am-12midnight (many weddings are held on Saturdays throughout the sum-mer between 11:30am and 6pm) www.helsinginseurakuntayhtyma.fi 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. www.leijonakorttelit.fi, www.virka.fi 3. 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. +358 (0)9 3103 6630 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 1757. Aleksanterinkatu 16-18, tel. +358 (0)9 3103 6529 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 66 www.helsinginkaupunginmuseo.fi 5. 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 1889. Under the same roof you can taste traditional delicacies and even try exotic products from Lapland. Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-4pm www.wanhakauppahalli.com 8
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. www.espanlava.fi 8. HAVIS AMANDA Designed by Ville Vallgren and built in Paris in 1906, this famous bronze fountain was erected beside the Market Square in 1908. 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 1 10. 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. +358 (0)207 220 683 Open: Mon closed, Tue-Fri 9:30am-4pm, Sat 9:30am-2pm, Sun 12noon-3pm (on holidays and preceding evenings open only during services) www.ort.fi/helsinki 9
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!
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, 24-25 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. +358 (0)9 684 1880, info@suomenlinna.fi www.suomenlinna.fi www.facebook.com/suomenlinna www.suomenlinnatours.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 20 14. 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 www.suomenlinna.fi 11
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! 4 5 10 9 Kamppi 11 3 12 7 Mannerheimintie 6 8 Simonkatu 13 1 Kaivokatu 2 Aleksanterinkatu 12 1. 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 1919. 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 www.vr.fi 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. +358 (0)9 1733 6401 Open: Tue, Fri 10am-6pm, Wed-Thu 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Entrance fees: adults 10/8, visitors under 18 free of charge www.ateneum.fi 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. +358 (0)9 1733 6501 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 www.kiasma.fi 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 1910. Mannerheimintie 34 tel. +358 (0)9 4050 9544 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 www.kansallismuseo.fi
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. +358 (0)9 191 28800 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 www.luomus.fi 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 22 24 www.lasipalatsi.fi 7. 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 2012. 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 www.kamppi.fi 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. +358 (0)9 310 37390 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. +358 (0)9 3108 7001 Open: Tue-Sun 11am-7pm Entrance fees: adults 8/6, visitors under 18 free of charge, free admission on Fridays 11am-4pm www.helsingintaidemuseo.fi The Museum of Cultures presents ethnographic exhibitions. Eteläinen Rautatiekatu 8, tel. +358 (0)9 4050 9806 Open: Tue 11am-8pm, Wed-Sun 11am-6pm Free admission www.kulttuurienmuseo.fi 13
14 Temppeliaukio Church
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. +358 (0)9 2340 5920 Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11:45am-5pm (Closed during religious services) www.helsinginseurakuntayhtyma.fi 11. 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. +358 (0)9 432 2027 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 3 www.eduskunta.fi 12. 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. +358 (0)20 451 4888 Open: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat- Sun 12noon-5pm Entrance fees: 6/3, visitors under 18 free of charge www.postimuseo.fi See page 47 for information about Library 10 13. 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. +358 (0)9 1912 4455 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 www.luomus.fi 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
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. www.finlandiapuisto.fi 1. 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. +358 (0)9 40241/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) 9.50. Group tours by arrangement only. www.finlandiatalo.fi 2. 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 www.musiikkitalo.fi Page 71 3. 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. +358 (09) 3107 8519 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. +358 (0)9 4030 2210 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) Ticket sales: tel. +358 (0)9 4030 2211 (Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 3pm-6pm, Sundays and holidays 2 hours before performance) Guided tours: adults 8, students and children 5 www.opera.fi tip! The summer café in the Blue Villa (Sininen Huvila Linnunlauluntie 11) offers a splendid view over Töölönlahti Bay. Open in summertime. 16
5 6 4 Helsinginkatu Mannerheimintie Töölönlahti 1 3 2 5. OLYMPIC STADIUM Helsinki s Olympic Stadium has been the arena of emotional sporting and musical events since 1938. The Games of the XV Olympiad were held here in 1952. 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. +358 (0)9 436 6010 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. www.stadion.fi 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. +358 (0)9 434 2250 Open: Mon-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat- Sun 12noon-4pm Prices: adults 5/3, visitors under 18 free of charge www.urheilumuseo.fi 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 1967. 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: www.upwithkallio.fi 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 www.visithelsinki.fi. 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 1 www.hkr.hel.fi/viher/english 17
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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 2012. 2. 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) 7288 440 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 www.tekniikanmuseo.fi 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. +358 (0)204 39 5357 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 2 www.arabianmuseo.fi 4. 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. +358 (0)9 191 5154 Open 1 May-30 September: daily 9am-7pm, wintertime closed. Changes possible. Entrance fees: adults 4, children and discount groups 2 www.luomus.fi Factory tours: reservations tel. +358 (0)204 39 5326 (Mon- Fri 1pm-4pm) Guided tours: Mon-Fri 40 (1-10 persons), larger groups 3.50/person 19
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 2013. Kalevalakehto is intended for use for small gatherings and meditation. Open-Air Museum. Opening hours 15-31 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. +358 (0)9 484 511 www.seurasaarisaatio.fi and Open-Air Museum, tel. +358 (0)9 4050 9660, www.seurasaari.fi 6 7 9 8 5 1 10 1. 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 3 4 2 11 20
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 www.hsl.fi TIP! The brochure See Helsinki on Foot is also available from Tourist Information and our website www.visithelsinki.fi. 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
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. +358 (0)9 2288 1600 www.helsinkiexpert.com 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 www.helsinkiexpert.com and save 3. Reservations and enquiries: Helsinki Expert, tel. +358 (0)9 2288 1600, 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 30 45 minutes, duration approx. 1 h/tour www.stromma.fi 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 www.citytour.fi 22
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. +358 (0)9 6874 5050 www.ihalines.fi Royal Line tel. +358 (0)207 118 338 www.royalline.fi Strömma tel. +358 (0)20 741 8210 www.stromma.fi Ferries to Suomenlinna and Pihlajasaari Island JT-Line tel. +358 (0)9 534 806 www.jt-line.fi All ferry companies also offer charter cruises. 23
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: www.soderskar.fi and www.royalline.fi 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. +358 (0)9 310 64813 www.helsinkimarina.fi Suomenlinna Guest Harbour (40 mooring places) tel. +358 (0)9 692 6450/ +358 (0)41 510 1060 www.valimo.org Further information: www.hel.fi/liikunta > Boating Tip! Chart your maritime voyage yourself and hire a water taxi (main season: May-September): Water Taxi Helsinki tel. +358 (0)400 618 946, www.watertaxi.fi Cardinal Marine Charter tel. +358 (0)9 6842 6842 www.cardinalmarine.fi Water Taxi M/S Pti Trou Noir tel. +358 (0)50 377 2121 www.trounoir.fi Helsinki Taxi Boat tel. +358 (0)40 542 6133 www.helsinginvenetaksi.fi 24
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26 WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL HELSINKI 2012 CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI
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 2012. 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 2012. Our city is your city. WWW.WDCHELSINKI2012.FI
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 31.12.2011 WHERE Senate Square, Helsinki INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi DOCPOINT Documentary film festival exploring the meanings of good and not so good design. WHEN 24 29.1.2012 WHERE Cinemas throughout Helsinki INFORMATION www.docpoint.info WDC HELSINKI OPEN DOORS WEEKEND Open doors event presenting the program of the WDC Helsinki 2012. WHEN 3 5.2.2012 WHERE Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Kauniainen, Lahti INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi DESIGN GOES MATTOLAITURIT Urban festival brings together design and traditional Finnish rug washing piers. WHEN 30.4 31.12.2012 WHERE 13 rug washing piers along the coast of Helsinki INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi MOA, MASTERS OF A! Design festival organized by Aalto University. WHEN 9.5 3.6. 2012 WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION www.moa.fi DESIGN DISTRICT HELSINKI WEEK Special events and offers throughout the Design District Helsinki. WHEN 7 10.6.2012 WHERE Design District Helsinki INFORMATION www.designdistrict.fi LASIPALATSI DESIGN MARKET Young designers present and sell their creations. WHEN 1 4.8.2012 WHERE Lasipalatsi Square, Helsinki INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi HELSINKI DESIGN WEEK 2012 + HABITARE International design community interacts with local designers and the general public. WHEN 6 16.9.2012 WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION www.helsinkidesignweek.com, www.habitare.fi OPENHOUSEHELSINKI Discover a different Design Capital with special guided tours of buildings and districts. WHEN September 2012 WHERE Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen, Vantaa, Lahti INFORMATION www.openhousehelsinki.fi CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI
OPEN HELSINKI FOR BETTER CITIES 29 EXHIBITIONS DESIGNGALLERIA 12 Major exhibition of contemporary design. WHEN Entire year 2012 WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION www.designmuseum.fi DESIGNER PATHWAY Exhibition presenting the numerous phases of the design processes. WHEN 1.2 31.12.2012 WHERE Museum of Technology INFORMATION www.tekniikanmuseo.fi MORE FUNCTIONALISM, REINO! Exhibition exploring the world of films shot in Helsinki from the 1930s to the 1960s. WHEN 15.2.2012 13.1.2013 WHERE Helsinki City Museum, main building INFORMATION www.hel.fi BUILDERS OF THE FUTURE FINNISH DESIGN 1945 1970 How did Finland develop into a world-leading centre of design after the wars? WHEN 24.5 23.9.2012 WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION www.designmuseum.fi INDEX: AWARD EXHIBITION Concrete examples of how design is improving everyday life throughout the world. WHEN 10.5 10.6.2012 WHERE Keskuskatu INFORMATION www.indexaward.dk 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 16.6 5.8.2012 WHERE Kunsthalle INFORMATION www.ornamo.fi CHANGE: TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE Can your own home be the most important environmental deed in your life? WHEN 1.8 30.9.2012 WHERE Museum of Finnish Architecture INFORMATION www.mfa.fi EVERY DAY DISCOVERIES INTERNATIONAL DESIGN HOUSES EXHIBITION Design concepts from all over the world to improve everyday life through play, memories and stories. WHEN 5.9.2012 15.9.2012 WHERE Suvilahti, Helsinki INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi HOME Exhibition exploring the ideal image of the home in different periods. WHEN 12.10.2012 13.1.2013 WHERE Design Museum INFORMATION www.designmuseum.fi WWW.WDCHELSINKI2012.FI
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 www.wdchelsinki2012.fi KALASATAMA SKATE PARK Skateboarders and urban culture beside the sea in a fantastic setting. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Kalasatama, Helsinki INFORMATION www.wdchelsinki2012.fi KAMPPI CHAPPEL OF SILENCE Not for religious services, just for quiet meditation. Open to all. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Narinkkatori, Helsinki INFORMATION www.helsinginseurakunnat.fi KULTTUURISAUNA Design and sauna come together to create the eco-friendly Kulttuurisauna. WHEN Summer 2012 WHERE Hakaniemenranta, Helsinki INFORMATION www.kulttuurisauna.fi OASIS A TRUE LIVING ROOM A true living room decorated in the courtyard (and a little inside). Make yourself at home! WHEN 23.1. 31.12.2012 WHERE Annantalo Arts Centre, Helsinki INFORMATION www.annantalo.fi 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 www.heltu.fi 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 www.korjaamo.fi 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 www.hok-elanto.fi KÄÄNTÖPÖYTÄ URBAN GARDEN A gardening oasis in the centre of Helsinki alongside a historic railway depot. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Pasila, Helsinki INFORMATION www.kaantopoyta.fi CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI
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 23.1 31.12.2012 WHERE Annantalo Arts Centre INFORMATION www.annantalo.fi BUILDING THE CITY! Children s architecture opera. Performances, sets and costumes by children. WHEN 3 17.3.2012 WHERE Museum of Finnish Architecture INFORMATION www.rakennetaankaupunki.fi OF TOYS AND MEN History of toys, design and aesthetics from ancient Mesopotamia to the global information society of the 21st century. WHEN 24.2 20.5.2012 WHERE Helsinki Art Museum, Tennis Palace INFORMATION www.taidemuseo.fi 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 25.4 31.12.2012 WHERE Helsinki INFORMATION www.napagalleria.wordpress.com TRAM STOP PILOT How does a design tram stop look and feel? Check it out. WHEN Year 2012 WHERE Kamppi, Helsinki INFORMATION www.hel.fi 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 www.wdchelsinki2012.fi 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 www.cmycity.net 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 www.hok-elanto.fi WWW.WDCHELSINKI2012.FI
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 www.weegee.fi THREE STORIES OF URBANISATION Exhibition that explores whether design can improve the world using examples from Africa and Asia. WHEN 28.3 19.8.2012 WHERE Helinä Rautavaara Museum, WeeGee, Espoo INFORMATION www.helinamuseo.fi 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 www.heureka.fi 6 SCENES OF BEAUTY Exhibition that juxtaposes design and fine art in a new and intriguing way. WHEN 10.2 4.8.2012 WHERE Vantaa Art Museum INFORMATION www.vantaa.fi 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 www.kukkapuro.fi RHYTHM Environmental artwork created by over 20,000 tulips. WHEN From 31.5.2012 WHERE Villa Valmogård, Kauniainen INFORMATION www.kauniainen.fi LAHTI EKOLANDIA Finnish design and visual art by means of spatial entities. WHEN 3.2 27.5.2012 WHERE Lahti City Museum / Lahti Art Museum INFORMATION www.lahdenmuseot.fi FINNISH SKI FROM SKI SMITH TO INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER Finnish skis are world famous. How are they designed? WHEN 20.9 31.12.2012 WHERE Lahti City Museum / Ski Museum INFORMATION www.lahdenmuseot.fi CITIES OF HELSINKI, ESPOO, VANTAA, KAUNIAINEN AND LAHTI
OPEN HELSINKI FOR BETTER CITIES 33 Further information about WDC Helsinki 2012 is available on our website, from our smart phone application, and on both Facebook and Twitter. Please, make yourself at home. Our city is your city. WWW.WDCHELSINKI2012.FI WWW.WDCHELSINKI2012.FI
34 Helsinki Music Centre
ARCHITECTURE The architecture in Helsinki is typified by Nordic modesty and refinement. The buildings at the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress interweave three unique periods the Swedish, Russian and Finnish into a fascinating entity. The city centre, especially around the Senate Square, is a unique and cohesive example of Neoclassical architecture. The Byzantine-Russian architectural tradition is represented by Alexander M. Gornostajev s Uspenski Cathedral (1868), the largest orthodox church in Western Europe. The city centre features many buildings that typify a specific style of architecture, such as Gustaf Nyström s House of the Estates (1890). The Neo-Renaissance work of Theodor Höijer can be admired along the north side of the Esplanade, as well as in the Ateneum Art Museum (1883). Art Nouveau or Jugend architecture was interpreted in Finland according to its own form of National Romanticism. Some of the finest examples include Lars Sonck s Jugendsali Hall (1904) and the National Museum (1910) by famous architect trio Gesellius-Lindgren-Saarinen. Late-Jugend is represented by Eliel Saarinen s Central Railway Station (1914). Nordic Classicism of the 1920s is represented by J. S. Siren s Parliament House (1931). Wooden architecture can be admired in the Käpylä, Puu- Vallila and Etu-Töölö districts. The architecture of the Käpylä district represents 1920s Classicism. Bold examples of Functionalism include the Olympic Stadium (1938) and the Lasipalatsi Glass Palace (1935). The works of worldfamous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto represent Modernism at its finest. These include the Academic Bookstore (1969) and the Finlandia Hall (1971/1975). One of the most popular tourist destinations in Helsinki is the Temppeliaukio Rock Church (1969), designed by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen as part of the natural bedrock. The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma (1998) designed by American architect Steven Holl represents the best of contemporary architecture. Minimalist glass and steel design is represented by the Sanomatalo (1999) and the High Tech Centre (2001) in Ruoholahti. Helsinki Music Centre opened next to Finlandia Hall in autumn 2011. 35
Archtours arranges special tours by order focusing on architecture, the environment and design, including a twohour guided walking tour of the key sights throughout the city centre. tel. +358 (0)9 477 7300 www.archtours.com Interesting districts along tram routes Eira, Töölö: Tram 3B or 3T Katajanokka: Tram 4 Käpylä: Tram 1 Ruoholahti: Tram 8 Kallio, Vallila, Pasila: Tram 9 TOP 10 ARCHITECTURE SIGHTS IN HELSINKI 1 Buildings designed by Alvar Aalto, www.alvaraalto.fi 2 Temppeliaukio Church, see page 15 3 Senate Square, see page 8 4 Puu-Käpylä district 5 Katajanokka district 6 Ullanlinna and Eira districts 7 Central Railway Station, see page 12 8 Olympic Stadium, see page 17 9 Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, see page 12 10 Tapiola district, Espoo, www.visitespoo.fi An Architecture Map can be purchased from Tourist Information. TIP! The best way to enjoy Helsinki s architecture is to walk around the city. Pick up the brochure See Helsinki on Foot from Tourist Information. Languages: English, Finnish, Swedish and Russian Enquire also about the Helsinki Jugend brochure! Olympic Stadium Archtours Ltd +358 9 4777 300 archtours@archtours.com www.archtours.com Inside Helsinki walk Archtours offers a two-hour English-language walking tour of the finest areas and interiors in Helsinki. Discover the wonders of each cultural era under the guidance of an expert guide. 18.6 31.8.2012 (weekdays) Tours depart at 2pm from the centre of Senate Square, 20 / person. See our website for more information! 36
www.vr.fi Finland Arctic Circle Sweden Russia Gulf of Bothnia Turku Gulf of Finland Vyborg St. Petersburg Moscow
FAMILY ATTRACTIONS Helsinki offers countless unforgettable experiences for families. Adults and children of all ages will find lots to do, and getting around town is easy. FUN AND EXCITING TIMES The always exciting Linnanmäki Amusement Park, the undersea world of Sea Life Helsinki and the traditional Helsinki Zoo on beautiful Korkeasaari Island are popular attractions for adults and children alike. Tropicario features snakes and lizards. In wintertime the Ice Park in the Railway Square delights skaters and onlookers with a range of entertaining events. You can explore the fascinating tunnels and bastion walls of the Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress with a guided tour or on your own throughout the year. A list of the best swimming beaches in summertime can be found on page 54, while museums that are popular among children are listed on page 66. An entire day can be spent at the Serena Water Park (page 54) or the Flamingo Leisure World (page 54) having a wild time or simply relaxing. The Finnish Science Centre Heureka (page 41) offers visitors of all ages the joy of discovery in a variety of thought-provoking and fun exhibitions. EXPLORE SUOMENLINNA To explore the dark tunnels and secret passageways at Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, all you need is a sense of adventure and a flashlight. In summertime you can also join the Canons and Tunnels guided tour the fortress has over 100 canons in all. The Café Piper in the English park is open daily in summer-time, and the cafés terrace affords a splendid view out to sea. The nearby grass fields are great for summer games and playing. You can also watch from the bastion walls as dozens of ferries and large cruise ships pass through the narrow straits by Kustaanmiekka each day throughout the summer. Remember to keep a close eye on children, as there are many steep and unprotected cliffs around Suomenlinna! For more information, see page 10 or www.suomenlinna.fi INDOOR FUN AND GAMES The Helsinki Playground (LeikkiLuola) beneath Hakaniemi Market promises lots of breathtaking excitement regardless of the weather outside. Time will fly among the trampolines, bouncy castles and ball cannons. Jaffa Station Hakaniemi Market Sörnäisten rantatie 6 tel. +358 (0)20 710 9902 Open: daily 10am-8pm www.leikkiluola.fi Huimala is a giant adventure hall with space and activities to entertain children of all ages, including Finland s largest adventure labyrinth, giant trampolines, an electric car track and many other favourites! Juvakartanontie 15, Vanhakartano, Espoo tel. +358 (0)20 794 0790 TROPICAL SCENERY Gardenia is a tropical garden located in the Viikki nature conservation area where you can relax and discover the miracles of nature among the exotic plants. Viikki, Koetilantie 1, tel. +358 (0)9 347 8400 Open: Mon-Thu 10am-6pm, closed on Fridays, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm To get there take Bus 68 or 68X from Railway Station Square www.gardenia-helsinki.fi See also the botanic gardens at Kaisaniemi (page 15) and Kumpula (page 19). Tip! Visit the animals at the Fallkulla and Haltiala farms. Find out more from Tourist Information or check the opening hours at: www.visithelsinki.fi 38
Linnanmäki 39
The fun begins at Linnanmäki www.linnanmaki.fi TROPICAL GARDEN TROOPPINEN PUUTARHA GARDENIA GARDENIA AVirkistävä beautiful and käyntirefreshing place to kohde kaikkina visit all year round! vuodenaikoina! Open Avoinna Mon-Thu 10 10-18 am - 6 pm ma-to klo SatSun klo 10 10-17 am - 5 pm la-su Entrance fees Sisäänpääsyt 4,00 4,00 /adults /aikuinen 2,00 2,00 /children /lapsi 2,30 /pensioners 2,30 /eläkeläinen 9,00 /family ticket 9,00 /perhelippu Koetilantie Koetilantie11 Viikki, Viikki,Helsinki Helsinki tel. +358 3478400 400 puh. (09)93478 www.gardenia-helsinki.fi www.gardenia-helsinki.fi 40
HEY, IT S HELPPI! If you are out and about near Tourist Information in the summertime, you might run into Helppi, the mascot of the Helsinki Helper team. Bring Helppi home with you Purchase your own Helppi mascot for just 8 euros from Tourist Information! For more tips on how to make the most of your holiday, pick up a copy of the brochure Helsinki Finland s Greatest Theme Park from Helsinki s Tourist Information, or download it from: www.visithelsinki.fi > Brochures Tip! For more tips on how to make the most of your holiday, pick up a copy of our Helppi brochure from Tourist Information or download it from our website: www.santasummerhouse.com Oivaltamisen the joy Of discovery iloa for koko the perheelle! entire family! The Tiedekeskus Finnish Science Heurekassa Centre tutustut Heureka tieteeseen allows ja visitors teknologiaan of all ages hauskalla to discover tavalla firsthand itse tehden the ja exciting kokeillen. world Päänäyttelyn of science and lisäksi technology esillä on by aina trying things vaihtuvia and näyttelyitä experimenting. sekä kesäisin In addition myös to ulko- the main näyttelyalue exhibition, Tiedepuisto the centre Galilei. offers Planetaariossa temporary exhibitions koet huikeita that elokuvaelämyksiä! explore different themes, as well as the outdoor Science Park Galilei in summertime. The Sijainti: Vattenfall Tikkurila, Planetarium Vantaa. presents breathtaking films. Avoinna joka päivä (paitsi 24.-25.12.). Location: Tikkurila, Vantaa. Open daily year round (except 24 25 December). www.sealife.fi Tivolitie 10, Helsinki. Tel 09-5658200 www.heureka.fi 41
39 38 60 52 51 46 35 36 34 50 37 44 40 41 45 61 42
43 54 53 42 33 49 48 47 58 57 55 59 56 500m Kaupunginmittausosasto, Helsinki 001/2012
M Hoplaksv ori ÄS V L jden Niemenmäki ylä entie 44 Raitiolinjat ja keskustan bussilinjoja Keskusta PLACES ON THE MAP Spårvägslinjer och busslinjer i centrum Centrum 24 asaari Pikku Huopalahti Vihdintie Paciuksenkatu Meilahti Mejlans HAAGA HAGA 1. Helsinki Cathedral 2. Senate Square (departure point for Hopon Hop-off buses) Näshöjden Etelä-Haaga Södra Haga Pohjois-Pasila Norra Böle Drumsövägen Kauppalant Rajasaari Råholmen 15V. 3. Government Palace 4. University of Helsinki (Main Building) 5. National Library of Finland 6. Helsinki City Hall (Virka 10Info & Virka Galleria) 7. Helsinki City Museum 8. Market Square 9. Old Market Hall Kivihaka Stenhagen Hakamäentie RUSKEASUO BRUNAKÄRR Tukholmank Paciusgatan Taivallahti Edesviken Lapinlahti Lappviken Ruoholahti Gräsviken 8 15 Laakso Dal LÄNSISATAMA VÄSTRA HAMNEN Jätkäsaari Busholmen Il m 10. Departure point for sightseeing cruises 11. Suomenlinna waterbus (JT-line) 12. Suomenlinna ferry (Helsinki City Transport) 13. Helsinki Zoo (Korkeasaari) waterbus 14. Havis Amanda statue 15. Tourist Information 16. Esplanade Park (departure point for Helsinki Expert sightseeing buses) 17. Presidential Palace 18. Uspenski Cathedral 19. Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress 20. Ateneum Art Museum 1 1A 3B 3T Meripuistot Raitiolinjat Spårvägslinjer Tramroutes 4 4T 6 7A Bussilinjat Busslinjer Busroutes 7B 8 9 10 15 15A 15V 24 alank Topeliuksenkatu Topeliusgatan Skogsbackavägen Radiog 15 15A 15V PASILA BÖLE Länsi-Pasila Västra Böle Taka-töölö BORTRE TÖLÖ Mechelininkatu Lapinlahti Lappviken Porkkalankatu Mannerheimvägen Nordenskiöldinkatu Mechelingatan Radiok Keski-Pasila 24 Veturitie Mannerheimintie Hietalahti Sandviken Lokvägen Mellersta Böle Runebergsgatan M Ruoholahti Gräsviken Pasilankatu Runeberginkatu Bangårdsv Vauhtitie Töölönlahti Tölöviken Lönnrotinkatu 1A Rata pihant Fartv v nk Sa o ALPPIHARJU Helsinginkatu Helsinge Arkadiankatu 15A M Kamppi Kampen Munkkisaari Munkholmen 15A Koskelantie Helsinki Helsingfors 24 PUNAVUORI RÖDBERGEN EIRA Backasgatan Itä-Pasila Östra Böle Eläintarhanlahti Uudenmaankatu Käpylä Kottby Teollisuuskatu KALLIO BERGHÄLL KLUUVI GLOET 3B 3B 1 3T 10 Merisatama Havshamnen 1 1A Kumpula Gumtäkt VALLILA VALLGÅRD Mäkelänkatu Aleksis Kiven katu Aleksis K Sturenkatu Sturegatan gatan Eläi ntarhantie Rautatientori Järnvägstorget M anuntie 21. Central Railway Station 22. General Post Office and Post Museum 23. Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma 24. National Museum of Finland Ilmala 25. Lasipalatsi (Glass Palace) 26. Kamppi Centre 27. Tennis Palace (incl. Museum of Cultures and Tennis Palace Art Museum) 28. Natural History Museum 29. Tropicario 7B 30. Temppeliaukio Church 31. Parliament House 32. Finlandia Hall 7A 33. Helsinki Music Pasila Centre 34. Finnish National Böle Opera 35. Olympic Stadium and Stadium Tower 36. Winter 3T Garden 37. Linnunlaulu Wooden Villa 3B District 38. Sibelius Monument 39. Seurasaari 3T 40. Hakaniemi Market 3Band Market Hall Harju Ås ata Siltasaari Broholmen Lill Hoplaxviken KAARTIN- KAUPUNKI Industrig ivis g Hämeentie KRUUNUNHAKA KRONOHAGEN M Kaisaniemi Kajsaniemi Laivasillank 3T Eteläsatama Södra hamnen KAIVOPUISTO BRUNNSPARKEN KOSKELA FORSBY Forsbyvägen Tavast vägen Kustaa Vaasan tie Hanasaari Hanaholmen Sörnäisten rantatie M Hakaniemi Hagnäs Sörnäisten satama Sörnäs hamn Pohjoissatama Norra hamnen VANHAKAUPUNK GAMMELSTADEN Gustav Vasas väg Hämeentie Hermannin rantatie Toukola Majstad Hermanni Katajanokka Skatudden Kanavakatu Hermanstad Sompasaari Sumparn 4T 2010 41. Arabia Factory and Museum 42. Sinebrychoff Art Museum 43. Kaapelitehdas (Cable Factory) 44. Linnanmäki Amusement Park and Sea Life 45. Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island 46. Swimming Stadium 47. Design Museum 48. Design Forum Finland 49. Amos Anderson Art Museum 50. Helsinki Fair Centre Tavastvägen Arabia 51. Finnair Stadium 52. Helsingin Jäähalli (Helsinki Ice Hall) 53. Central Bus Station, Kamppi 54. Länsiterminaali (West Terminal) 55. Olympiaterminaali (Olympic Terminal) 56. Katajanokan terminaali (Katajanokka Terminal) 57. Kanavaterminaali (Kanava Terminal) 58. Makasiiniterminaali (Makasiini Terminal) 59. Wanha Satama 60. Korjaamo Culture Factory 61. Vuosaari Harbour and Hansa Terminal Kalasatama M Fiskhamnen Sörnäinen M Sörnäs Kyläsaarenkatu 4 Kaupunkimittausosasto, Helsinki 0 006/2010 1 6 8 KORKEASAAR HÖGHOLMEN Suomenlinnaan Till Sveaborg
Travel conveniently within Helsinki Region by public transport 1 7 day tickets The most convenient ticket for visiting tourists is a day ticket available on a single-charge card. You can choose the number of days for your ticket from 1 to 7 days. The ticket is valid from the time it is first used, including during the night fare hours. Day tickets are valid on all public transport: trams, buses, metros, local trains and the Suomenlinna ferry. Suomenlinna ticket (12 hours) If you want to spend a day at the Suomenlinna maritime fortress, this is the ticket for you. The ticket is valid for 12 hours from the time it is first used. It is valid only on the ferry to Suomenlinna and it does not include a right to transfer to other public transport modes. The Suomenlinna ticket on a single-charge card can also be purchased conveniently in advance. Single-charge cards sales points: All R kiosks in the Helsinki metropolitan area Stockmann department stores K-Citymarket supermarkets in the Helsinki metropolitan area VR ticket sales at railway stations Tourist Information Helsinki Airport, Helsinki Region Tourist Information Silja Serenade and Silja Symphony ferries HSL service points: Central Railway Station and Itäkeskus Metro Station Espoo and Vantaa service points Easily and inexpensively to the airport / Helsinki city centre 615 Airport Bus Railway Station Square, Platform 3 Airport Terminal T1, Platform 2 Airport Terminal T2, Platform 21 Travel information, timetables and routes tel. 0100 111 Personal service Mon-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm (0.98 euros/call + local network charge). 24h talking timetable (0.49 euros/call + local network charge) www.hsl.fi m.hsl.fi www.reittiopas.fi
SERVICES HOTELS AND OTHER ACCOMMODATION Helsinki offers plenty of choices for accommodation, from inexpensive hostels to luxury hotels. For a full list of accommodation outlets, see: www.visithelsinki.fi If you do not have a room upon arrival, you can book one at the Hotel Expert desk at Tourist Information or inside the Central Railway Station or online from www.hotelbooking.fi Tip! For a better night s sleep, stay in a hotel with a low carbon footprint! For a list of accommodation outlets in Helsinki that have been awarded the Nordic Ecolabel, go to: www.visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki For You > Sustainable tourism > Eco-friendly accommodation EMERGENCY NUMBERS General emergencies 112 Police 112 Ambulance and fire 112 24-HOUR HEALTH SERVICE INFORMATION tel. +358 (0)9 10 023 www.0910023.fi HOSPITALS 24-hour service Haartman Hospital Haartmaninkatu 4, Building 12 tel. +358 (0)9 310 63231/ direct or +358 (0)9 310 5018/ switchboard Maria Hospital Lapinlahdenkatu 16, Building 15C tel. +358 (0)9 310 67204 Mehiläinen-Töölö (private hospital), Runeberginkatu 47 A, tel. +358 (0)10 414 3030/24h, +358 (0)10 414 0112/switchboard LOST AND FOUND Helsinki Police Punanotkonkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)71 877 3180 (Mon-Fri 10am-2pm). Open: Mon-Fri 8am-4:15pm www.poliisi.fi Suomen Löytötavarapalvelu Mäkelänkatu 56 tel. +358 (0)600 41 006, (.1.97/min+local network charge) Open: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-2pm www.loytotavara.net Suomen Löytötavarapiste Kamppi Centre, Narinkka 3 tel. +358 (0)600 04401, ( 1.99/min+local network charge) BANKS Aktia, Mannerheimintie 14 tel. +358 (0)10 247 6600 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Nordea, Aleksanterinkatu 30 tel. +358 (0)200 3000 Mon-Fri 10am-4:30pm OP Pankki, Aleksanterinkatu 19 tel. +358 (0)10 255 9015 Mon-Thu 10am-7pm, Fri 10am-4:30pm Sampo, Kaivokatu 6 tel. +358 (0)10 546 0050 Mon-Fri 10am-4:30pm Nooa Säästöpankki, Mikonkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)10 436 6420 Mon-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 10am-4:30pm Handelsbanken, Eteläesplanadi 12 tel. +358 (0)10 444 3410 Mon-Fri 10am-4:30pm CURRENCY EXCHANGE Forex Central Railway Station tel. +358 (0)20 751 2510 Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm Stockmann, 8th floor tel. +358 (0)20 751 2550 Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 12noon-6pm Itäkeskus, Pasaasi-käytävä tel. +358 (0)20 751 2540 Mon-Fri 9am-7pm, Sat 9:30am 5pm Tavex Fabianinkatu 12 tel. +358 (0)9 6814 9149 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm 46
POST General Post Office Elielinaukio 2 F tel. +358 (0)200 71000 Open: ground floor Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm; upper floors Mon-Fri 8am-7pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12noon-5pm LIBRARIES IN THE CITY CENTRE Access to libraries is free of charge, and inside you can read books and a wide range of newspapers and magazines. At Library 10 you can also use the internet without a library card. Kirjasto 10 (Library 10) Elielinaukio 2G Mon-Thu 8am-10pm, Fri 8am-6pm, Sat-Sun 12noon-6pm Rikhardinkatu library Rikhardinkatu 3 Mon-Thu 9am-8pm, Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12noon-4pm PUBLIC TOILETS Sofiankatu WC Open summertime: Mon-Fri 9:30am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9:30am-4pm Open wintertime: Mon-Sun 9:30am-4pm. Price: 0.50 Automatic public toilets are located throughout town, for example beside the Old Market Hall, in Esplanade Park and in Sibelius Park. Price: 0.50 (pissoir is free of charge) TAXIS Taksi-Helsinki tel. +358 (0)100 0700 ( 1.15/call + 0.164/10s.+local call charge) www.taksihelsinki.fi Yellow Line Airport Taxi tel. +358 (0)600 555 555 ( 1.99/call+local network charge) Special prices from airport to centre www.airporttaxi.fi CAR RENTALS Avis tel. +358 (0)9 8598 356 www.avis.fi Budget tel. +358 (0)207 466 600 www.budget.fi Europcar tel. +358 (0)200 12 154 www.europcar.fi Hertz tel. +358 (0)200 112 233 www.hertz.fi Scandia Rent/Crowne Plaza tel. +358 (0)207 435 342 www.scandiarent.fi Transwell Oy tel. +358 (0)10 423 9944 www.transwell.fi Auto Alex tel. +358 (0)40 522 3938 www.autoalex.com Sixt tel. +358 (0)200 111 222 www.sixt.fi Tip! For free attractions and events, as well as affordable restaurants and accommodation, go to: www.visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki For You > Budget travellers 47
TOURIST INFORMATION Make the most of Helsinki s tourist services the inexpensive Helsinki Card, knowledgeable guides and Helsinki City Tourist Information. HELSINKI CITY TOURIST INFORMATION Tourist Information provides free information about the city, sights, events and services, including a wide selection of brochures and maps. A Helsinki Expert s sales point is also located here. Tourist Information is also available from Helsinki s Expert s sales point located inside the Central Railway Station. During the peak tourism season cruise ship passengers are also served at the Hernesaari Cruise Terminal. Pohjoisesplanadi 19, tel. +358 (0)9 3101 3300 Open 15 May-14 September: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm Open 15 September-14 May: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm www.visithelsinki.fi Helsinki Region Tourist Information is located at Helsinki Airport (Terminal 2, Arrival Hall 2). Open: 24-hours, desk manned daily 10am-8pm Helsinki Helpers From June to August the streets of Helsinki are patrolled by around 20 young Helsinki Helpers dressed in green offering free advice and help to visitors. Ask them about interesting events and sights or for brochures and maps. The helpers are themselves assisted by Helppi, our fun mascot who can be seen up and down Esplanade Park. The Helsinki Helpers also serve customers from the Info Container. ESPOO CONVENTION & MARKETING tel. +358 (0)9 8164 7230 tourist@espoo.fi www.visitespoo.fi Tourist Information: Sello Shopping Centre, Matinkylä Service Point (Iso Omena Shopping Centre), Tapiola Citizen s Office (Espoo Cultural Centre) Tourist Information also available from the following Citizen s Offices: Espoon keskus, Espoonlahti (Lippulaiva Shopping Centre), Kalajärvi (Ruskatalo), Leppävaara (Leppävaara Library), Tapiola (Folkhälsan) Citizen s Offices: tel. +358 (0)9 8165 7070 VANTAA CITY TOURIST INFORMATION Tikkurila citizen s office Myyrmäki citizen s office www.vantaa.fi/en/citizen_s_ offices Open: Mon-Thu 8am-6pm, Fri 8am-1pm Open summertime: Mon-Thu 10am-5pm, Fri 8am-1pm www.visitvantaa.fi Tip! The Gay Friendly Helsinki network highlights tolerant service providers, from hotels and restaurants to transportation companies and excursions. See: www.visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki For You > GBTL 48
HELSINKI EXPERT Helsinki Expert s sales points sell the Helsinki Card and tickets for sightseeing tours, and they also handle hotel reservations and car rentals. Ferry tickets and package tours to Tallinn and St. Petersburg can also be purchased here. Helsinki Expert s sales points are located inside the Central Railway Station and Tourist Information at Pohjoisesplanadi 19. sales@helsinkiexpert.fi online shop: www.helsinkiexpert.com Online hotel reservations: www.hotelbooking.fi Hire your own guide Helsinki s official guides are specially trained experts in Helsinki Region, and their services are available in no less than 27 languages. Helsinki guides have lots of experience in leading groups, from state visits to school children. Transportation, including cars, limousines, buses of all sizes, ships and boats, and even trams, can also be provided along with your guide. Enquiries and reservations: Helsinki Expert tel. +358 (0)9 2288 1222 sales@helsinkiexpert.fi www.helsinkiexpert.com Create your own Helsinki experience Purchase your Helsinki Card in advance and plan your own unique Helsinki itinerary on the website www. helsinkicard.fi. Helsinki Card holders are entitled to free, unlimited travel on Helsinki Region Transport (HSL), as well as to free admission to museums and attractions, including Suomenlinna and its museums. The adult card entitles the holder to a free Audio Sightseeing Tour (value 28). The card also offers discounts, for example from restaurants, car rentals and cultural events, as well as a handy city guide and map in 5 languages. The Helsinki Card can also be purchased from Tourist Information, at the airport, at passenger ferry terminals, and at the Central Railway Station, as well as from all Helsinki hotels. The Helsinki Card is valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours, and the time begins when the card is first used. The price for adults is 36 and for children (7-16) starting from 15. Children under 7 are allowed in free to nearly all Helsinki Card attractions. Welcome to LOVIISA! Enjoy lovely summer events, the small town atmosphere and the archipelago lifestyle in Loviisa, just one hour from Helsinki. Laivasilta Marina Area summer restaurants, exhibitions and the Maritime Museum Svartholma Sea Fortress cruises, walking tours and children s adventures Strömfors Ironworks handicrafts boutiques in an authentic ironworks milieu Open gardens in early summer Rootsinpyhtaa Bluegrass & Rendezvous in June Sibelius Festival in August Historical Houses in late summer LOVIISA TOURIST INFORMATION Karlskronabulevardi 8 tel. +358 (0)19 555 234 info@loviisa.fi www.loviisa.fi 49
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SHOPPING Helsinki offers the best shopping opportunities in Finland. Favourite items to bring home from Finland are designer products from clothing to interior decorations. You should also check out the market halls and markets (see page 56), where you can buy souvenirs and delicious treats to bring home with you. SHOPPING STREETS Main shopping streets: Aleksanterinkatu, Esplanade and Mannerheimintie Smaller clothing boutiques: Uudenmaankatu, Fredrikinkatu and Korkeavuorenkatu Interior decorating shops: Punavuori and Kamppi districts Design: Design District (see page 51) and Esplanade Antique shops: Kruununhaka and Ullanlinna districts. SHOPPING CENTRES AND DEPARTMENT STORES Aleksi 13, Aleksanterinkatu 13: a department store that specialises in apparel and accessories Forum, Mannerheimintie 20: a wide range of shops Itäkeskus (metro: Itäkeskus, 15 min.): one of the largest shopping centres in the Nordic region Kamppi, Narinkkatori (metro: Kamppi): over a hundred shops and many restaurants Kämp Galleria, Pohjoisesplanadi 33: a prestige shopping centre selling top brands Kluuvi, Aleksanterinkatu 9: a convenient shopping centre Sokos, Mannerheimintie 9: offers a wide selection in a central location Stockmann, Aleksanterinkatu 52: the largest department store in the Nordic region UNIQUE BOUTIQUES Fem, Fleminginkatu 5: a stylish boutique and collective of four designers The Green Dress, Erottajankatu 5: designer products from previous seasons, vintage, customised second-hand clothing and ethical brands Helsinki10, Eerikinkatu 3: a fine collection of urban design, vintage and art Vanhatapio Store, Kiseleff House, Aleksanterinkatu 28: femme fatale creations by Tiia Vanhatapio Minna Parikka, Bulevardi 24: feminine footwear, leather gloves and bags, and knitwear by Minna Parikka IVANAhelsinki, Uudenmaankatu 15: clothing by Paola Suhonen that combines retro Scandinavian and Slavic influences Nina s, Bulevardi 13: selection includes shoes by Miu Miu, Mark Jacob and Louboutin, as well as clothing by Dries van Noten Globe Hope, Lasipalatsi, Mannerheimintie 22 24 and Kiseleff House, Aleksanterinkatu 28: clothing, bags and other products made from recycled materials Lux Shop, Uudenmaankatu 26: clothing and accessories by young designers Liike, Yrjönkatu 25: the new wave of Finnish clothing design Samuji, Kiseleff House, Aleksanterinkatu 28: simple and functional clothing for women DESIGN DISTRICT HELSINKI Those interested in design should visit Helsinki s designoriented neighbourhood, the Design District. The area is home to a wide range of designer shops, interior decorating studios, antique dealers, clothing and jewellery boutiques, artist workshops, galleries, museums, restaurants and lots more. The symbolic centre of the area is Dianapuisto Park. From here the Design District stretches into the districts of Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi, Punavuori and Ullanlinna. www.designdistrict.fi Tip! Listings of antique shops, second-hand bookstores and factory outlets are available from Tourist Information. 51
HEL2012 - pala a piece Helsinkiä. of Helsinki. Tutustu Discover myymälöissämme Iittala s special HEL2012 Iittalan World Design Design Capital Capital Helsinki Helsinki products -tuotteisiin at our shops HEL2012. throughout Kuvio Helsinki. on taiteilija The design Per by Josephsonin Per Josephson tulkinta captures the helsinkiläisyydestä Helsinki spirit and its ja kaupunkikulttuurista. unique urban culture. Myynnissä On sale for vain a limited 2.1. 31.12.2012. time only from 2.1. 31.12.2012. Iittala-myymälä stores Esplanadi, Kamppi, Itäkeskus, Iso Omena, Sello, Jumbo Iittala outlets Helsinki (Arabia), Vantaa (Tammisto), Espoo (Lommila) Myymälöissä Ask about our vienti- Export ja Tax and Free Tax Free -palvelu. services. www.iittala.com
FLEA MARKETS Hietalahti Flea Market, Hietalahti Market Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 8am-4pm Opening hours May to September: Mon-Fri 8am-7pm, Sat 8am-4pm and Sun 10am-4pm Valtteri Flea Market, Aleksis Kiven katu 17. Open: Sat, Sun and Wed 9am-3pm OPENING HOURS Department stores and shopping centres are open weekdays 9am- 9pm, Saturdays 9am-6pm and Sundays 12noon-6pm (9pm). Smaller shops are usually open weekdays 10am-6pm and Saturdays 10am-2pm. TAX FREE Citizens of non-eu countries are eligible for tax-free returns. Purchases must be made in shops displaying Global Refund s Tax Free sign. The minimum total sum of purchased goods must be 40 euros. Upon leaving EU territory, travellers can claim VAT that varies according to product but does not exceed 20 percent of the total price. www.globalrefund.com Shopping tips! B-guided magazine or www.b-guided.net We Are Helsinki magazine or www.we-are.fi Design District map from Design Forum (Erottaja 7), Tourist Information or www.designdistrict.fi TIP! Delight your friends at home with eco-friendly gifts! For a list of ecological shops and places where you can buy organic food, go to: www.visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki For You > Responsibly If you don t have room in your suitcase, you can order Finnish design products over the internet from: www.finnishdesignshop.com 53
WELLNESS AND EXERCISE The beautiful clean nature and the fresh sea offer unlimited possibilities for relaxing and enjoying healthy activities throughout the year. Beauty spas offer a comprehensive range of treatments. The traditional Finnish sauna is also an experience that shouldn t be missed. DAY SPAS AND OTHER SPAS Palace Kämp Day Spa Kluuvikatu 4 B (8th floor) tel. +358 (0)9 5761 1330 www.kampspa.fi Helsinki Day Spa Erottaja 4 tel. +358 (0)9 685 0630 www.dayspa.fi Siluetti Spa Pohjoisesplanadi 35, 6th floor tel. +358 (0)9 2525 4200 www.siluettispa.fi Forever Health Club & Day Spa Mannerheimintie 50 (Crowne Plaza) tel. +358 (0)9 4777 0421 +358 (0)9 4777 040 www.foreverdayspa.com Haikko Manor Spa Haikkoontie 114, Porvoo tel. +358 (0)19 57 601 www.haikko.fi Flamingo Water Park and Spa Tasetie 8, Vantaa tel. +358 (0)20 778 5200 www.flamingospa.fi SWIMMING AND SAUNAS Hot saunas relax both the mind and the body. After throwing water on the rocks and soaking up the heat, cool off with a refreshing swim. Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall has the feel of a Roman bath. Built in 1928, it is the oldest swimming hall in Helsinki and the entire Nordic region. Its specialty is nude swimming with separate swimming times on different days of the week for men and women. Naturally, swimsuits can also be worn. You can also rent your own stall with a bed for relaxing and enjoying refreshments. Yrjönkatu 21 b tel. +358 (0)9 310 87401 Prices: adults 4.80-12, children and special groups 2.40-6 Mäkelänrinne Swimming Centre Mäkelänkatu 49 tel. +358 (0)9 3484 8800 Prices: adults 5.80, children and special groups 3 Itäkeskus Swimming Hall Olavinlinnantie 6 tel. +358 (0)9 3108 7202 Prices: adults 5.20, children and special groups 2.60 Further information about swimming halls and saunas: www.hel.fi/liikunta The Swimming Stadium offers outdoor swimming in a 50-metre pool from May to September in 25-degree water regardless of the weather. Hammarskjöldintie tel. +358 (0)9 310 87854 Kumpula Outdoor Swimming Pool Allastie 5 tel. +358 (0)9 310 87477 Serena Water Park is the largest water park in the Nordic region. Indoors families can enjoy the wild waterslides, bubble pools, children s pools and a large wave pool. Outdoor attractions include mat slides, two long ring rivers, a Dead Sea pool and a number of other slides. Tornimäentie 10, Lahnus, Espoo tel. +358 (0)9 8870 550 www.serena.fi Kotiharjun Sauna in Kallio is Helsinki s last totally woodheated public sauna. A traditional washing lady is available Tue 4pm-7pm, Fri 4pm-8pm and Sat 2pm-7pm. No reservation is needed. Massages, hand and foot treatments, and cupping are also available, but these services must be reserved in advance. Harjutorinkatu 1 tel. +358 (0)9 753 1535 Open: Tue-Sat 2pm-8pm (sauna time until 9:30pm) Prices: adults 12, pensioners and students 8.50, children (12-16) 6 www.kotiharjunsauna.fi Tip! You can try a genuine smoke sauna at Kuusijärvi in Vantaa on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3pm to 8pm. www.saunamafia.fi 54
Helsinki s shoreline and archipelago are perfect for enjoying outdoor recreation, swimming and nature walks. The most popular swimming beach is Hietaniemi Beach, or Hietsu as it is known locally. In addition to the places listed here, public swimming beaches near to the centre can be found at Seurasaari, Mustikkamaa and Munkkiniemi. Uunisaari Island off the southern shore of Kaivopuisto Park offers sandy beaches and convenient services, attracting holidaymakers to swim and picnic. How to get there (April-November): Take the small ferry from Merisatamantori (look for the compass), which operates non-stop. On Pihlajasaari Island you can sunbathe on the hot rocks and swimming in the refreshing sea. The island also has a kiosk and café-restaurant, as well as a separate naturist beach. How to get there (June-August): Take the ferry from Merisatamanranta (beside Cafe Carusel), which operates every hour and non-stop on hot days. Alternatively, take the ferry from Ruoholahti departing every hour. CYCLING Greenbike, Bulevardi 32 (open in summertime) tel. +358 (0)50 404 0400 www.greenbike.fi Ecobike, Savilankatu 1 b tel. +358 (0)400 844 358 www.ecobike.fi Bicyclean Helsinki, Vyökatu 4 D www.bicycleanhelsinki.com Many hotels offer their guests bicycles free of charge enquire from your hotel s reception! A free biking map is also available from Tourist Information! In summertime you can also borrow free city bikes. See: www.hsl.fi GOLF In Helsinki you can play golf at Vuosaari Golf or at the Helsinki Golf Club in Tali. The season lasts from May to October. Nearby in Espoo there are six high-quality golf courses that are ideal for both active players and amateurs. Further information: www.golfpiste.com (in Finnish) or Tourist Information. RECREATIONAL AREAS IN HELSINKI Helsinki s Central Park (Keskuspuisto) comprises a large area of recreational forest and skiing trails in wintertime (especially in Paloheinä). The park also has conservation areas, including the Pitkäkoski rapids, the Ruutinkoski rapids, the Haltiala protected forest and the Niskala arboretum. How to get there: Bus 66 A Kaivopuisto Park and Töölönlahti Bay are ideal places for jogging and walking. Manor house parks can be found in nearly all districts of Helsinki, including the Old Town (Vanhakaupunki, Annala), Herttoniemi, Puotila and Kumpula. RECREATIONAL AREAS IN GREATER HELSINKI At Oittaa Recreational Centre you can rent equipment for summer and winter sports and take lessons. Enjoy cycling, canoeing, snowshoe hiking, cross-country skiing and tour skating. Kunnarlantie 33 39, Oittaa, Espoo tel. +358 (0)44 722 6329 www.suomenlatu.fi/oittaa Nuuksio National Park in Espoo is an excellent destination for camping, picking berries, hiking, fishing, cycling and skiing. You can get to the park by bus. tel. +358 (0)205 644 790, www.luontoon.fi/nuuksio At Solvalla Sports Academy you can try different sports by yourself or with a professional trainer. Nuuksiontie 82, 02820 Espoo tel. +358 (0)9 8678 430 www.solvalla.fi The Villa Elfvik nature house and nature trail are located at the northern end of the Laajalahti Conservation Area. Elfvikintie 4, Espoo tel. +358 (0)9 8165 4400 www.espoo.fi/villaelfvik Tip! Just a short metro ride from the city centre is the Salmisaari Sports Centre, where you can try beach volleyball, bowling, climbing, laser battles, ice sports, dancing, badminton and floorball. www.salmisaarenliikuntakeskus.fi 55
FINNISH CUISINE Finnish cuisine reflects both eastern and western influences. Foods sourced from the forest are a particular favourite here in the North. Seasonal ingredients such as berries, mushrooms, root vegetables, fish and game provide a special touch to local dishes. The popularity of organic local food is growing all the time in Helsinki. In the city centre you can purchase organic and local food from the following boutiques: Eat & Joy Kluuvi Shopping Centre Aleksanterinkatu 9 Anton & Anton Museokatu 19 Maatilatori Lasipalatsi, Mannerheimintie 22 24 Juuren puoti Korkeavuorenkatu 27 Stockmann Herkku Aleksanterinkatu 52 Helsinki s markets and market halls sell Finnish delicacies, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs: Helsinki Market Eteläsatama open: Mon Fri 6:30am 6pm, Sat 6:30am 4pm, May-September also Sun 10am 5pm (see page 8) Old Market Hall Eteläranta open: Mon Fri 8am 6pm, Sat 8am 4pm (see page 8) Hakaniemi Market open: Mon Sat 6:30am 3pm, 1st Sunday of the month: 9am 4pm Hakaniemi Market Hall open: Mon Fri 8am 6pm, Sat 8am 4pm Hietalahti Market Hall Lönnrotinkatu 34 (opens in autumn 2012) Photo: Timo Santala Tip! Restaurant Day is a Finnish specialty that is held several times a year. The event encourages individuals to set up temporary pop-up restaurants just for the day. ravintolapaiva.com Tip! A Good Food Centre is being developed at the Helsinki Wholesale Market in the Kalasatama district. The first phase will open in 2012. The area will include restaurants, food-related events and a market. Helsinki is a member of the Delice Network of Good Food Cities of the World. 56
SENATE SQUARE Kanavaranta Laivastokatu Pohjoisesplanadi MARKET SQUARE Eteläesplanadi Kanavakatu Unioninkatu Eteläranta
RESTAURANTS Helsinki has over 1000 restaurants where you will find everything gourmet delights to bistro treats. Helsinki also has a wide range of ethnic restaurants. HELSINKI MENU RESTAURANTS in 2012 The easiest way to try local specialties is to order from the HelsinkiMenu, which is offered by 17 restaurants in the city centre. The menu varies according to restaurant and season. Fly Inn Restaurant Deli Helsinki Airport Hotelli Arthur Vuorikatu 19 Baker s Mannerheimintie 12 Carelia Mannerheimintie 56 Graniittilinna Säästöpankinranta 6 Grotesk Ludviginkatu 10 Havis Eteläranta 16 Kellarikrouvi & Fabian Pohjoinen Makasiinikatu 6 Kuu Töölönkatu 27 KuuKuu Museokatu 17 Lasipalatsi Mannerheimintie 22-24 Macu Mannerheimintie 50 Nokka Kanavaranta 7 Seurasaari Seurasaari Sundmans Krog Eteläranta 16 Suomenlinnan Panimo Suomenlinna C1, lauttaranta www.tasteoffinland.fi/ helsinkimenu FINNISH FLAVOURS Aino Pohjoisesplanadi 21 tel. +358 (0)9 624 327 Graniittilinna Säästöpankinranta 6 tel. +358 (0)20 7424 250 Juuri Korkeavuorenkatu 27 tel. +358 (0)9 635 732 Konstan Möljä Hietalahdenkatu 14 tel. +358 (0)9 694 7504 Kosmos Kalevankatu 3 tel. +358 (0)9 647 255 Lasipalatsi Mannerheimintie 22 24 tel. +358 (0)20 7424 290 Manala Dagmarinkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)9 5807 7707 SeaHorse Kapteeninkatu 11 tel. +358 (0)9 628 169 Salve Hietalahdenranta 11 tel. +358 (0)10 76 64280 Savotta Aleksanterinkatu 22 tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5588 Zetor Mannerheimintie 3-5 tel. + 358 (0)10 76 64450 A taste of Lapland Lappi Annankatu 22 tel. +358 (0)9 645 550 Saaga Bulevardi 34 B tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5544 Fine dining Kappeli Eteläesplanadi 1 tel. +358 (0)10 76 63880 K17 Kalevankatu 17 tel. +358 (0)40 17 111 17 Nokka Kanavaranta 7 tel. +358 (0)9 6128 5600 Palace Gourmet Eteläranta 10, 10th floor tel. +358 (0)9 1345 6715 Salutorget Pohjoisesplanadi 15 tel. +358 (0)9 6128 5950 Savoy Eteläesplanadi 14 tel. +358 (0)9 6128 5300 Sipuli Kanavaranta 7 tel. +358 (0)9 6128 5500 MICHELIN-STAR RESTAURANTS Chez Dominique** Rikhardinkatu 4 tel. +358 (0)9 612 7393 Demo* Uudenmaankatu 9-11 tel. +358 (0)9 2289 0840 Luomo* Vironkatu 8 tel. +358 (0)9 135 7287 Olo* Kasarmikatu 44 tel. +358 (0)9 665 565 Postres* Eteläesplanadi 8 tel. +358 (0)9 663 300 ISLAND RESTAURANTS Island restaurants are generally open from 1 May to the end of September. NJK Valkosaari tel. +358 (0)9 6128 6500. Ferry departs from pier behind Olympic Terminal Saari Sirpalesaari tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5566. Ferry departs from Merisatamanranta beside Café Carusel Savu Tervasaarenkannas 3 tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5574. Open year round, accessible by bridge from mainland (Pohjoisranta) Uunisaaren ravintola Uunisaari tel. +358 (0)9 636 870. Ferry departs from the middle of Merisatamanranta beside Kaivopuisto Park Saaristo Klippan tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5590. Ferry departs from the Klippan pier behind Olympic Terminal. Särkänlinna Särkkä Island tel. +358 (0)9 1345 6756. Ferry departs from pier next to Café Ursula Boathouse Liuskasaari tel. +358 (0)9 6227 1070. Ferry departs from Merisatamanranta near Café Carusel Suomenlinna also has several restaurants (see page 11). RUSSIAN RESTAURANTS Bellevue Rahapajankatu 3 tel. +358 (0)9 179 560 Kasakka Meritullinkatu 13 tel. +358 (0)9 3508 4760 Saslik Neitsytpolku 12 tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5500 Troikka Caloniuksenkatu 3 tel. +358 (0)9 445 229 For more ideas, for example about other ethnic restaurants, check out Helsinki This Week magazine, which is available in print, online and mobile versions. This and other restaurant guides can be picked up from Tourist Information or read online at m.helsinkithisweek.com See also: www.visithelsinki.fi and www.eat.fi for more restaurant tips 58
FINNISH MENU Kaarna baari & keittiö Forum, Mannerheimintie 20 ravintolakaarna.fi FINNISH & NORDIC FOOD & BEERS FINNISH MENU Ravintola Zetor Mannerheimintie 3-5 ravintolazetor.fi FINNISH FOOD & DRINKS FINNISH MENU FINNISH MENU FINNISH FOOD & DRINKS PEARL OF ESPLANADI Kappeli Eteläesplanadi 1 kappeli.fi Salve Salve, Hietalahdenranta 11 ravintolasalve.fi BAR & DINING BEST PIZZA IN TOWN Virgin Oil Co. Kaivopiha, Mannerheimintie 5 virginoil.fi Memphis Annanaukio 2 D memphis.fi BIG SCREENS AND SAUNA LEADING SPORTS RESTAURANT IN SCANDINAVIA SPANISH TAPAS & BAR Sports Academy Kaivokatu 8 sportsacademy.fi Casa Largo Asema-Aukio 2 casalargo.fi Vltava Elielinaukio 2 vltava.fi MAGNIFICENT CZECH www.restaurantshelsinki.fi tel. +358 20 1234 800 Call charges (incl. VAT 23%): Landline 0.0828/call + 0.0595/min Mobile 0.0828/call + 0.1704/min BBQ House Urho Kekkosenkatu 1 bbqhouse.fi STEAKS FROM LAVASTONE GRILL
SAVU Tastes of Finland by the open sea Lapland in the heart of Helsinki Tasty and hearty Finnish food SAAGA SAVOTTA Sirpalesaari Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 55666 Bulevardi 34 Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 55444 Aleksanterinkatu 22 Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5588 SASLIK SAARISTO Smoked taste experiences The legendary Russian Restaurant Helsinki s balcony to the sea SAARI www.asrestaurants.com Tervasaarenkannas 3 Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5574 Neitsytpolku 12 Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 55000 Klippan Tel. +358 (0)9 7425 5590 THE BIGGEST TEX-MEX RESTAURANT in Helsinki CANTINA WEST Kasarmikatu 23 +358 (0)20 7424 210 www.cantinawest.net Traditional Finnish cuisine ravintola lasipalatsi restaurang Mannerheimintie 22 24 +358 (0)20 7424 290 www.ravintola.lasipalatsi.fi Classic Finnish cuisine with a modern touch A unique brasserie in a historic pharmacy Töölönkatu 27 +358 (0)9 270 90973 www.ravintolakuu.info Restaurant & Wine bar Mannerheimintie 56 +358 (0)9 27090 976 www.carelia.info 60
CAFÉS Coffee can be sipped in Helsinki in these unique and friendly establishments Carusel Kaivopuisto, Merisatamanranta 10 Ekberg Bulevardi 9 Esplanad Pohjoisesplanadi 37 Fratello Kluuvi, Yliopistonkatu 6 Jugend Pohjoisesplanadi 19 Karl Fazer Kluuvikatu 3 Mattolaituri Kaivopuistonranta, Ehrenströmintie 3A Neuhaus Unioninkatu 32 Piritta Tokoinranta, Eläintarhantie 12 Sinisen Huvilan kahvila (Blue Villa), Töölönlahti, Linnunlauluntie 11 (open in summertime) Sis. Deli Korkeavuorenkatu 6, Kalevankatu 4 Strindberg Pohjoisesplanadi 33 Succès Korkeavuorenkatu 2 Tornin Ateljee Yrjönkatu 26 Torrefazione Aleksanterinkatu 50 Tyyni Töölönlahti, Helsinginkatu 56 (open in summertime) Ursula Kaivopuisto, Ehrenströmintie 3 Villipuutarha Kallio, Kaarlenkatu 13 Cafe Compass - - ulkoilmakahvila open-air café MEREN BESIDE RANNALLA THE SEA - - KAIVOPUISTOSSA PARK TERVETULOA - VÄLKOMMEN - WELCOME Ehrenströmintie 1 b www.cafecompass.fi Sun-Tue 9am 9pm(10pm) Wed-Sat 9am 11pm(12pm) Eläintarhantie 12, Helsinki t. +358 (0)9 753 1732 piritta@ursula.fi www.piritta.fi Helsinki s finest SEASIDE CAFÉS Open every day of the year. WELCOME! Coffees, Snacks, Delicacies, Beverages &(fully-licensed) & Lunch Daily 9am 10pm(12midnight) Ehnströmintie 3, Helsinki t. +358 (0)9 652 817 ursula@ursula.fi www.ursula.fi 61
BARS AND NIGHTLIFE A wide range of clubs and bars offers something for everyone in terms of clientele, atmosphere and price. The trendiest bars and nightclubs favoured by media and cultural personalities can be found in the districts of Kamppi and Punavuori. Large and friendly clubs for everyone can be found in the city centre, while even more mature cultural people prefer the scene in the Töölö district. You can experience a particularly exciting atmosphere in the former workingclass district of Kallio. CITY CENTRE Design nightclub: Le Bonk Yrjönkatu 24 Above the rooftops: Ateljee Bar, Sokos Hotel Torni, Yrjönkatu 5 Intimate evening entertainment: Club Silk, Olavinkatu 1 Entertainment complex: Teatteri, Pohjoisesplanadi 2 DJs: mbar, Mannerheimintie 22 24 International: Casino Helsinki, Mikonkatu 19 Terrace complex: On the Rocks, Baarikärpänen and Public Corner, Mikonkatu 15 Heavy: PRKL Club, Kaisaniemenkatu 4 Irish: Molly Malone s, Kaisaniemenkatu 1 Live music: Virgin Oil, Kaivopiha, Mannerheimintie 5 and Apollo Live Club, Mannerheimintie 16 Music Theatre Koitto, Yrjönkatu 31 PUNAVUORI DISTRICT Fine drinking: Cocktail Lounge A21, Annankatu 21 Local hangout: Lupolo, Punavuorenkatu 3 Rock: Bar Loose, Annankatu 21 Living room: Motellet, Annankatu 10 Clubbers: Club Playground, Iso Roobertinkatu 10 Crazy: Cuba Café, Erottajankatu 4 Old favourite: Café Bar 9, Uudenmaankatu 9 Live gigs: Nosturi, Telakkakatu 8 KAMPPI DISTRICT Style conscious: The Tiger, Kamppi Shopping Centre, Urho Kekkosen katu 1 A Biggest nightclub: The Circus, Salomonkatu 1-3 Club music: Bassment, Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 21 Kaurismäki complex: Corona, Café Moskova and Dubrovnik, Eerikinkatu 11 Artist restaurant: Kosmos, Kalevankatu 3 Wild: DOM Helsinki, Fredrikinkatu 42 Adult: Pressa, Antinkatu 2 Rock n roll: Tavastia and Semifinal, Urho Kekkosen katu 6 KALLIO DISTRICT Classic local bar: Rytmi, Toinen linja 2 Old-time bar: Sävel, Hämeentie 2 Hipsters: Kuudes linja, Kaikukatu 4 DJs: Siltanen, Hämeentie 13 B Live music: Club Liberté, Kolmas Linja 34 Urban living room: Café Talo, Hämeentie 2 Billiards: Mascot Bar & Lounge, Neljäs linja 2 Historic: Juttutupa, Säästöpankinranta 6 Stylish: Café Piritta, Eläintarhantie 12 Restaurant ships and floating terraces: Wäiski, Hakaniemenranta 11 and Flying Dutch, Pitkänsillanranta 2 (summertime) TÖÖLÖ DISTRICT Culture factory: Korjaamo, Töölönkatu 51 a-b Artists: Elite, Eteläinen Hesperiankatu 22 Students: Botta, Museokatu 10 Kitchen open late: Manala, Dagmarinkatu 2 Beer lovers: St. Urhos Pub, Museokatu 10 Socialising: Vastarannan Kiiski, Runeberginkatu 26 Pub: Pub 99, Mannerheimintie 58 Jazz: Storyville, Museokatu 8 KARAOKE Pata-ässä Snellmaninkatu 13 Satumaa Arkadiankatu 2 Anna K. Annankatu 23 Restroom Tehtaankatu 23 A Jone s Kaisaniemenkatu 13 Swengi Karaoke Nightclub Iso Roobertinkatu 10 Heavy Corner Bar Hietaniemenkatu 2 62
Order a unique karaoke taxi in advance: Iiro s Taxi Service Ltd. tel. +358 (0)600 050607 www.karaoketaxi.fi TJP Lines tel. +358 (0)200 99999 www.tjplines.fi Tip! Pick up a copy of the Nordic Oddity brochure from Tourist Information for even more listings, or check out Nordic Oddity online at: www.visithelsinki.fi P A T A Ä S S Ä Snellmaninkatu 13 A N N A K. Annankatu 23 J O N E S Kaisaniemenkatu 13 P O P U L U S Aleksis Kiven katu 22 K U P A R I K U L M A Kuparitie 1 R E S T R O O M Tehtaankatu 23 A Y Ö K Y Ö P E L I Fabianinkatu 17 E R O T T A J A B A R Erottajankatu 15-17 W W W. K A R A O K E B A R. N E T 63
WINTER HELSINKI It s strange, it s cool, it s wonderful... It s winter in Helsinki! You will feel it, come rain or shine, during a cultural experience, enjoying walks along the seashore or trying out winter sports. It s the great outdoors and being exposed to the elements. It s the positive strangeness of the locals and the exoticism of the season. www.visithelsinki.fi/ northernexposure ACTIVITIES TO WARM YOU UP Helsinki Ice Park in Railway Station Square is the perfect place for skating to music or simply relaxing in the café and watching others on the ice. Skates can be rented, and skating schools for children are held daily. The Ice Park also presents a fun programme of events, from live music to performances. Opening hours (November-March, weather permitting): Mon-Thu 12noon-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am-6pm Prices: adults 5, children and special groups 2.50, rental skates 5 www.jaapuisto.fi Kallio Skating Rink (Helsinginkatu 23) is another popular open-air skating rink that plays music and sells warm juice and hot chocolate. The skating rink is open from November to March. Skates are available for rent. Further information about skating rinks in Helsinki: tel. +358 (0)9 310 8771 or www.hel.fi/liikunta Enquire from Tourist Information about tour skating tracks along the coastline! The best cross-country skiing trails are located in Central Park (Keskuspuisto). At Paloheinä Recreational Centre (approximately 9 km from the centre of Helsinki) you can rent skis. Skating is also possible if conditions permit. Pakilantie 124 Bus 66 or 66A to the last stop tel. +358 (0)9 8775 2281 Open as snow and track conditions permit www.ulos.fi/paloheina Further information about skiing trails in Helsinki: www.hel.fi/liikunta There are also good downhill and snowboarding slopes nearby, for example Talma in Sipoo. www.talmaski.fi Further information: www.ski.fi Lumiparkki Kivikko is a snow park that is perfect for both beginners and experienced snowboarders. You can rent equipment, and there is also a cafe and restaurant. Take the metro to Kontula and then bus 94A or 94B to Kivikko. Open: December-March (weather permitting) Opening hours and prices: www.lumiparkki.fi At Ylläs-Halli Arctic Sport Centre you can cross-country ski all year round. The indoor facilities feature a 1.2-kilometre trail over variable terrain. The temperature is kept at 4 to 6 C. Other facilities include a curling hall, a skating rink, a biathlon area and an ice-climbing wall. Children can enjoy their own 100-metre skiing trail, skiing world and sledding hill, and visitors can relax at the Café-Restaurant Luossa. Savikiekontie 4 tel. +358 (0)9 224 5103 www.uniquelapland.com/fi/ lappi-helsingissa Espoo offers excellent opportunities for enjoying cross-country skiing, including 200 kilometres of trails. You can also practice downhill skiing and snowboarding at Serena Ski and Solvalla Swinghill. Further information: www.visitespoo.fi and www.ski.fi EXCITING EXPERIENCES The Finnish Ice Hockey League season stretches from September to April. Exciting Finnish league matches can be watched at Hartwall Arena and Helsinki Ice Hall (Jäähalli). Lippupiste, tel. +358 (0)600 900 900 ( 1.76/ min+local call charge) or www.lippu.fi Lippupalvelu, tel. +358 (0)600 10 800 ( 1.96/min+local call charge) or www.lippupalvelu.fi www.hartwall-areena.com www.helsinginjaahalli.fi 64
Casino Experience is a guided introduction to the world of gaming. Tours are organised on show evenings from 6pm to 7pm. If you are looking for fine evening entertainment, enquire also about Show & Dinner packages. www.casinohelsinki.fi GUIDED WINTER WALKING TOURS OF SUOMENLINNA The maritime fortress is brought to life in wintertime with special English-language walking tours. Discover the secrets behind the walls and embankments, and learn about life on the islands in war and peace during the Swedish and Russian periods. Why was such an enormous fortress built on these islands, and who was the unfortunate Carl Olof Cronstedt? Guided tours (3 January to 31 May and 5 September to 27 December): Sat and Sun at 1:30pm Prices: adults 7, children 3.50, free of charge with Helsinki Card Tickets: Suomenlinna Visitor Centre Guided walking and theme tours are available in many other languages throughout the year by reservation. www.suomenlinnatours.com CHARMING CHRISTMAS SEASON The St. Thomas Christmas Market has around 150 booths where you can buy unique gifts, from decorations to seasonal treats. Watch as traditional smiths work their magic, and you may even bump into Santa Claus himself on weekends handing out sweets to children. Helsinki city centre, 7 21 December 2012 Other Christmas markets Old Student House Christmas Market (Vanha Ylioppilastalo, Mannerheimintie 3) Ornamo O-gallery Design Market (Design Forum Finland, Erottajankatu 7) Ladies Christmas Market (Wanha Satama, Pikku Satamakatu 3-5) Christmas World, Narinkkatori, Kamppi In addition, Christmas and carol concerts are held in most churches throughout the Christmas season. More information about seasonal events is available in our brochure Christmas and New Year in Helsinki, which is available from Tourist Information or online from www.visithelsinki.fi > Brochures TIP! Enquire about snowmobile and husky safaris from Tourist Information or see www.visithelsinki.fi TOP 5 IN WINTER 1. Stimulating cultural events, see page 70 71 2. Relaxing exercise and spa treatments, see page 54 55 3. Seasonal cuisine, see page 58 4. Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, see page 10 11 5. Shopping, for example in the Design District, see page 51 Helsinki Ice Park 65
MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITIONS Find your own favourite from over 80 museums in Helsinki. As is common practice, most museums are closed on Mondays. Many also have attractive cafés and gift shops. The Helsinki Card (see page 49) offers free admission to many museums. MUSEUMS Helsinki City Museum Sofiankatu 4 tel. +358 (0)9 3103 6630 www.helsinkicitymuseum.fi see also page 8 Other Helsinki City museums: Hakasalmi Villa Mannerheimintie 13 d tel. +358 (0)9 3107 8519 Burgher s House Kristianinkatu 12 tel. +358 (0)9 3107 1549/ +358 (0)9 3103 6630 Sederholm House Aleksanterinkatu 16-18 tel. +358 (0)9 3103 6529 Tuomarinkylä Manor Museum and Children s Museum Tuomarinkylä Manor tel. +358 (0)9 3107 1568, Bus 64 Worker Housing Museum Kirstinkuja 4 tel. +358 (0)9 3107 1548 / +358 0(9) 3103 6630 Tram Museum, Korjaamo Culture Factory Töölönkatu 51 A tel. +358 (0)9 3103 6630 National Museum of Finland, Mannerheimintie 34 tel. +358 (0)9 4050 9544 www.kansallismuseo.fi see page 12. Design Museum, Korkeavuorenkatu 23 tel. +358 (0)9 622 0540 www.designmuseum.fi see page 67. Museum of Finnish Architecture Kasarmikatu 24 tel. +358 (0)9 8567 5100 www.mfa.fi Military Museum Maurinkatu 1 tel. +358 (0)299 530 241 www.mpkk.fi/en/museum/ Theatre Museum Cable Factory, Tallberginkatu 1 G tel. +358 (0)207 961 670 www.teatterimuseo.fi Finnish Museum of Photography Cable Factory, Tallberginkatu 1 G tel. +358 (0)9 6866 3621 www.valokuvataiteenmuseo.fi Natural History Museum Pohjoinen Rautatiekatu 13 tel. +358 (0)9 1912 8800 www.luomus.fi. see page 13. Urho Kekkonen Museum reopens after renovation in spring 2012 tel. +358 (0)40 128 6362 www.nba.fi/fi/ukk_museo Sports Museum of Finland Olympic Stadium, Paavo Nurmentie tel. +358 (0)9 434 2250 www.urheilumuseo.fi see page 17 Museum of Cultures Tennis Palace, 2nd floor Eteläinen Rautatiekatu 8 tel. +358 (0)40 128 6441 www.kulttuurienmuseo.fi, see page 13 Post Museum Asema-aukio 5 H tel. +358 (0)20 451 4888 www.posti.fi/postimuseo, see page 15 Helsinki University Museum Arppeanum, Snellmaninkatu 3 tel. +358 (0)9 1912 4071 www.museo.helsinki.fi Mannerheim Museum Kalliolinnantie 14 tel. +358 (0)9 635 443 www.mannerheim-museo.fi Päivälehti Museum Ludviginkatu 2-4 tel. +358 (0)9 122 5210 www.paivalehdenmuseo.fi Bank of Finland Museum Snellmaninkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)10 195 702 www.rahamuseo.fi Hotel and Restaurant Museum Cable Factory, Tallberginkatu 1 G tel. +358 (0)9 6859 3700 www.hotellijaravintolamuseo.fi Arabia Museum and Gallery Hämeentie 135 tel. +358 (0)204 395 357 www.arabianmuseo.fi Bus 68, 71 or 71V, Tram 6. S see page 19 Technical Museum Viikintie 1 tel. +358 (0)9 7288 440 www.tekniikanmuseo.fi Bus 68, 71 or 71V, Tram 6, see page 19 Tip! Museumgoers can pick up the free brochure Helsinki Region Museums from Tourist Information or download from: www.visithelsinki.fi > Brochures 66
ART MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES The Golden Age of Finnish art was in the late-19th and early-20th centuries, when the visual arts truly blossomed. Today Helsinki s art life is still active and diverse. Museum collections offer intriguing and bold works of art. Ateneum Art Museum Kaivokatu 2 tel. +358 (0)9 1733 6401 www.ateneum.fi, see page 12 Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, Mannerheiminaukio 2 tel. +358 (0)9 1733 6501 www.kiasma.fi, see page 12 Tennis Palace Art Museum Salomonkatu 15 tel. +358 (0)9 3108 7001 www.taidemuseo.fi, see page 13 Meilahti Art Museum Tamminiementie 6 tel. +358 (0)9 3108 7031 www.taidemuseo.fi Bus 24 Kunsthalle Helsinki Nervanderinkatu 3 tel. +358 (0)40 450 7211 www.taidehalli.fi Sinebrychoff Art Museum Bulevardi 40 tel. +358 (0)9 1733 6460 www.sinebrychoffintaidemuseo.fi Amos Anderson Art Museum Yrjönkatu 27 tel. +358 (0)9 684 4460 www.amosanderson.fi Didrichsen Art Museum Kuusilahdenkuja 1 tel. +358 (0)9 4778 330 www.didrichsenmuseum.fi CULTURAL ARENAS KORJAAMO CULTURE FACTORY Situated in an old tram depot, Korjaamo offers culture in the form of theatre, the visual arts and music. Korjaamo also houses the Tram Museum, the wellstocked Korjaamo Shop, and a café and restaurant. Töölönkatu 51 a-b tel. +358 (0)20 7417 000 www.korjaamo.fi and www.helsinginkaupunginmuseo.fi KAAPELITEHDAS (CABLE FACTORY) The Cable Factory is the largest cultural centre in Finland, housing three museums, 13 galleries, dance theatres and much more. Concerts, exhibitions, festivals and fairs are held here each year. Kaapelitehdas, Tallberginkatu 1 C tel. +358 (0)9 4763 8300 www.kaapelitehdas.fi Museums open: Tue-Sun 11am-6pm ART GALLERIES Helsinki has dozens of smaller art galleries specialising in contemporary art. Many art galleries are located on Uudenmaankatu, Bulevard and Annankatu streets. The Taide-Art gallery brochure presents up-to-date information about exhibitions in 5 art museums and 32 galleries. The brochure is free of charge and is available from any museum or gallery, or from Tourist Information. Further information about art galleries: www.nayttely.info www.visithelsinki.fi free admission The City Planning Department s meeting place on Narinkka Square next to Kamppi LAITURI TOWARDS TOMORROW S HELSINKI INFO FREE EXHIBITION TUE-FRI 10am 6pm, SAT 12noon 4pm NARINKKA 2 LAITURI.HEL.FI KOE EXPERIENCE SUOMALAINEN FINNISH MUOTOILU DESIGN EILEN FROM JA YESTERSAY TÄNÄÄN, SEKÄ AND TUTUSTU TODAY, AND VAIHTUVIIN SEE OUR SPECIAL TEEMANÄYTTELYIHIN THEME EXHIBITIONS Open: Tue Avoinna: 11am 8pm, ti 11 8, Wed Sun ke su 11 6 11am 6pm Summertime kesäaika (1.6 1.9): (1.6 1.9): jokapäivä Daily 11am 6pm 11 6 Aikuiset Adults 8, 8, Pensioners Eläkeläiset 7, 7, Opiskelijat Students 3 3 Peruskoululaiset Children ja lapset free ilmaiseksi DESIGN MUSEUM www.designmuseum.fi Korkeavuorenkatu Korkeavuorenkatu 23, Helsinki 23 67
EXHIBITIONS Virka Galleria inside Helsinki City Hall presents temporary exhibitions. Sofiankatu 1 tel. +358 (0)9 3101 1111 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-7pm and Sat-Sun 10am-4pm www.virka.fi Laituri City Planning Department s information and exhibition centre. Narinkka 2 tel. +358 (0)9 3103 7390 Open: Tue-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 12noon-4pm laituri.hel.fi Exhibitions, concerts, wlan, free internet connection, information about Helsinki. Virka Galleria & Virka Info Mon Fri 9am 7pm Sat Sun 10am 4pm Free admission Helsinki City Hall Sofiankatu 1 tel. +358 (0)9 310 11 111 www.virka.fi A world of exhibitions and museums. Finland s largest exhibition centre offers excitement, events and high-quality art for the entire family. The complex houses five museums and a gallery, plus museum shops and a restaurant. Enjoy your visit! Open: Tue, Thu & Fri 11am 6pm, Wed 11am 8pm, Sat Sun 11am 5pm. Tickets: 10/8, visitors under 18 and over 70 free of charge. www.weegee.fi Ahertajantie 5, Tapiola, Espoo. EMMA / KAMU / HELINÄ RAUTAVAARA MUSEUM / GALLERY AARNI / MUSEUM OF HOROLOGY / TOY MUSEUM / SIS.DELI + CAFÈ / WEEGEE SHOP MUSEUMS OUTSIDE HELSINKI WeeGee and EMMA Finland s largest exhibition centre offers excitement, events and high-quality art for the entire family. The complex houses five museums and a gallery: EMMA Espoo Museum of Modern Art, Espoo City Museum, Helinä Rautavaara Museum, Finnish Museum of Horology, Finnish Toy Museum and Gallery AARNI. Museum shop and café-restaurant. Ahertajantie 5, Tapiola, Espoo, tel. +358 (0)9 8163 1818 Open: Tue, Thu, Fri 11am-6pm, Wed 11am-8pm, Sat-Sun 11am- 5pm, Mon closed www.weegee.fi Bus 106 or 110 Gallen-Kallela Museum Finland s national artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela designed and built his studio and home at Tarvaspää near Helsinki between 1911 and 1913. Today the museum presents exhibitions of the art of Gallen- Kallela and his contemporaries, as well as contemporary art. Gallen-Kallelan tie 27, Tarvaspää, Espoo tel. +358 (0)9 849 2340 Open 1.9-14.5: Tue-Sat 11am-4pm, Sun 11am-5pm Open 15.5-31.8: daily 11am-6pm www.gallen-kallela.fi Tram 4 to Munkkiniemi, approx. 2 km walk from the end of Munkkiniemen puistotien across Munkinpuisto Park. Daily service line from Munkkiniemen puistotie. Bus 106 from Kamppi to the Ruukinranta crossing on Ring I, approx. 2 km walk 68
THEATRES AND CINEMAS Helsinki offers a broad range of theatre productions. Further information about performances is available from the Theatre Information Centre, tel. +358 (0)9 2511 2120, www.teatteri.org or from www.valiverho. com. Performances are in Finnish or Swedish. The Finnish National Theatre was established over 130 years ago as the country s first professional Finnishlanguage theatre. The theatre building by Railway Square is a monument itself to National Romantic granite architecture. Inside you will find a restaurant. Läntinen teatterikuja 1 tel. +358 (0)10 733 1331 www.kansallisteatteri.fi Helsinki Municipal Theatre (Ensi Linja 2) presents both traditional plays and spectacular musicals. Studio Pasila (Ratamestarinkatu 5) offers interesting events, including stand-up comedy. The Arena stage (Hämeentie 2) hosts comedy. tel. +358 (0)9 394 022 www.hkt.fi Lilla Teatern serves as the Swedish-language stage of the Helsinki Municipal Theatre. Yrjönkatu 30 tel. +358 (0)9 394 0310 www.lillateatern.fi Svenska Teatern has just reopened after a major renovation and presents Swedishlanguage theatre and musical performances. tel. +358 (0)9 6162 1411 www.svenskateatern.fi Savoy Theatre hosts over 200 different performing groups every year from Finland and around the world. Kasarmikatu 46-48 tel. +358 (0)9 310 12000 www.savoyteatteri.fi Espoo City Theatre stages its own productions and hosts top Finnish and international performers. Revontulentie 8, Tapiola, Espoo, tel. +358 (0)9 439 3550 www.espoonteatteri.fi Other theatre venues KOM-teatteri Kapteeninkatu 26 tel. +358 (0)9 6841 841 www.kom-teatteri.fi Q-teatteri, Tunturikatu 16 tel. +358 (0)9 4542 1333 www.q-teatteri.fi Ryhmäteatteri several locations tel. +358 (0)9 718 622 www.ryhmateatteri.fi Theatre restaurants Lavaklubi Läntinen teatterikuja 1 tel. +358 (0)10 733 1331 Piritta Tokoinranta, Eläintarhantie 12 tel. +358 (0)9 753 1732 Kaksi Kanaa Kanavakatu 3 tel. +358 (0)9 669 260 Kapsäkki Hämeentie 68 tel. +358 (0)9 260 0907 Nyyrikki Pohjolankatu 2 tel. +358 (0)9 757 2299 Cinemas Movies are usually shown in their original languages with subtitles in Finnish and Swedish. Tennispalatsi (Tennis Palace), 14 screens, Salomonkatu 15 Kinopalatsi (Kino Palace), 10 screens, Kaisaniemenkatu 2 Maxim, 2 screens, Kluuvikatu 1 Bristol, 1 screen, Mikonkatu 8 Further information: Finnkino tel. +358 (0)600 007 007 ( 1.40/call+local network charge) www.finnkino.fi The National Audiovisual Archive presents artistic and historic films at the Orion. Eerikinkatu 15 tel. +358 (0)9 6154 0201 (no phone reservations) www.kava.fi The nostalgic Bio Rex also serves as the venue for film festivals. Mannerheimintie 22 24 tel. +358 (0)600 555 500 ( 0.98 /call + local network charge) www.biorex.fi In summertime you can also enjoy films under the open sky in the charming courtyard of the Cafe Engel. Summer Cinema Engel Sofiankatu 4 tel. +358 (0)201 555 801 70
MUSIC Helsinki is filled with concert halls where you can choose between high-quality classical concerts or live performances by Finnish and international artists. CLASSICAL MUSIC Opened in autumn 2011, Helsinki Music Centre is home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Radio Symphony Orchestra and Sibelius Academy (see page 16). Tickets: Lippupiste and Lippupalvelu, or 1 hour in advance from the door Mannerheimintie 13 a www.musiikkitalo.fi Founded in 1882, Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra is the oldest professional symphony orchestra in Scandinavia. Further information: tel. +358 (0)9 3102 2700 www.hel.fi/filharmonia Radio Symphony Orchestra plays an important role in Finnish music. Further information: tel. +358 (0)9 1480 4368 www.yle.fi/rso Sibelius Academy is one of the biggest music colleges in Europe. The academy holds hundreds of concerts every year. Further information: tel. +358 (0)20 753 90 www.siba.fi The Villa Aino Ackté hosts concerts from May to September. See programme: www.ainoacktenhuvila.fi The Espoo Cultural Centre is the main stage for the performing arts and culture in Espoo and home of the Tapiola Sinfonietta. Kaupinkalliontie 10/ Kulttuuriaukio 2 Tapiola, Espoo tel. +358 (0)9 816 5051 www.espoo.fi/kulttuurikeskus TICKETS Lippupalvelu tel. +358 (0)600 10 800 ( 1.96/min+local network charge) www.lippupalvelu.fi Lippupiste tel. +358 (0)600 900 900 ( 1.97/min+local network charge) www.lippu.fi Tiketti tel. +358 (0)600 1 1616 ( 1.69/min+local network charge) www.tiketti.fi OPERA AND BALLET Enjoy breathtaking opera and ballet performances at the Finnish National Opera. The programme includes beautiful classics and intriguing modern works. Helsinginkatu 58, see also page 16 Tickets and information: tel. +358 (0)9 4030 2211/Opera Ticket Sales or Lippupiste Ticket prices: 14-99 www.opera.fi ROCK AND OTHER LIVE MUSIC Helsinki attracts many international pop and rock stars every year. Major concerts are held at the Hartwall Arena, Olympic Stadium and Helsinki Ice Hall (Helsingin Jäähalli). www.hartwall-areena.com www.stadion.fi www.helsinginjaahalli.fi www.kulttuuritalo.fi www.tavastiaklubi.fi www.storyville.fi Read more about live music in restaurants and clubs on page 62! 71
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EVENTS IN 2012 World Design Capital Helsinki 2012 See the special insert on pages 26-33! wdchelsinki2012.fi Here we present a selection from the over 3000 events held each year in Helsinki. Further information: www.visithelsinki.fi > Experience > Event calendar JANUARY Until 8.1. Winter Circus Nenä/ Nose, Dance Theatre Hurjaruuth, Kaapelitehdas Until 9.1. Lux Helsinki, light installations, Senate Square and Töölönlahti Bay 1-7.1. Winter Fest, Linnanmäki Amusement Park 19-22.1. Nordic Travel Fair Matka 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 20-22.1. Caravan 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 21.1. Schönbrunn Castle Orchestra, Finlandia Hall 24-29.1. Docpoint Helsinki Documentary Film Festival 27.1-4.2. SibaFest Sibelius Academy Winter Festival, Helsinki Music Centre FEBRUARY 2-5.2. MP 12, motorcycle fair, Helsinki Fair Centre 4-5.2. Apassionata Horse Show, Hartwall Arena 4-11.2. Festival Flamenco de Helsinki 4.2. Winter Classic: HIFK vs. Jokerit, ice hockey, Olympic Stadium 9.2. Euro Hockey Tour: Finland vs. Russia, ice hockey, Olympic Stadium 9-12.2. Disney On Ice, Hartwall Arena 10-19.2. Vene 12 Båt Boat Show, Helsinki Fair Centre 15.2. Rammstein in concert, Hartwall Arena 16.2. Student graduation parades around Kaivopuisto and Esplanade parks 17-18.2. Helsinki Metal Meeting, Kaapelitehdas 19.2. Shrovetide sleigh rides, Seurasaari Open-Air Museum MARCH 1.3-30.4. Helsinki Photography Festival, Helsinki 2-4.3. GoExpo 2012, recreation, bicycle, outdoor, fitness, golf, hunting, ball sports and photo fairs, Helsinki Fair Centre 3-4.3. Helsinki Horse Fair 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 3-4.3. Helsinki Handicrafts Fair, Wanha Satama 3-11.3. Church Music Festival, various churches, incl. Helsinki Cathedral and Temppeliaukio 9-10.3. Viapori Winter Blues, Suomenlinna 10.3. Nightwish in concert, Helsingin Jäähalli (Helsinki Ice Hall) 14-16.3. Wine Expo, Gastro 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 29.3-1.4. Oma Koti, OmaMökki, OmaPiha, Sisusta!, Tee se Itse 2012 (home, cottage, garden, interior decoration and DIY fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre 30.3-1.4. Helsinki Ink 12 International Tattoo Convention, Kaapelitehdas 30.3.-1.4. Artisokka Film Festival, Bio Rex APRIL 6-7.4. Via Crucis Stages of the Cross, Kaisaniemi Senate Square 6-9.4. American Car Show 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 7.4. Easter bonfires at Seurasaari 23-29.4. April Jazz Espoo 27-29.4. Lapsi, Model Expo, Kädentaito, OutletExpo 2012 (child, model, handicrafts and outlet fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre 28-29.4. Pet Expo 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 30.4. May Day Eve celebrations Students give Havis Amanda a wash and her graduation hat, 6pm, Market Square Helsinki Beer Festival, Kaapelitehdas Ruutia! youth dance festival MAY 1.5. May Day, student and national celebrations, including traditional picnics in Kaivopuisto Park 4-20.5. Ice Hockey World Championships, Hartwall Arena 5.5. Helsinki City Run, half marathon, Olympic Stadium 7-12.5. Ihana Helsinki, city event, Helsinki 8-13.5. Helsinki Spring Light Chamber Music, Temppeliaukio Church 9-13.5. (preliminary) Cirko Helsinki New Circus Festival, Cirko Centre 9-27.5. Masters of Arts Festival, art event, Tulli- ja Pakkahuone 26-27.5. World Village Festival, Kaisaniemi Park 27.5. Women s 10K Fun Run start from Töölö Sports Hall 73
4-20.5. Ice Hockey World Championships 2012 The 2011 ice hockey world champions Finland will host the 2012 Ice Hockey World Championships together with Sweden. Two preliminary rounds of 8 teams each will be held, one at Hartwall Arena in Helsinki and the other in Stockholm. The deciding match will take place in Helsinki. www.iihfworlds2012.com JUNE 1.6-31.8. Helsinki Organ Festival, concerts in churches 7-9.6. Southern Ostrobothnia visits Helsinki, Senate Square 7.6-30.8. Organ Night and Aria Festival, Espoo Cathedral 8-9.6. Kivenlahti Rock Festival, Leppävaara 10-11.6. (preliminary) Helsinki Samba Carnaval 11-17.6. Les Lumières Cultural Festival of the Enlightment, Suomenlinna 12.6. Helsinki Day, birthday events throughout the city 15-16.6. Helsinki Samba Carnaval, Senate Square 22.6. Midsummer Eve celebrations at Seurasaari 25.6-1.7. Helsinki Pride Festival 27.6-1.7. European Athletics Championships, Olympic Stadium 29.6-1.7. Tuska Festival, Suvilahti 29.6-1.7. Helsinki Salmon Market and European Championships in Salmon Fishing, Kaivopuisto Park, Merisatamanranta Helsinki Week, events throughout the city JULY 1-31.7. Jazz-Espa, Espa Stage, Esplanade Park 9-14.7. Helsinki Cup, international youth soccer tournament 26-28.7. Great beers small breweries, beer festival, Railway Square 27.7-5.8. URB 12, urban festival, Kiasma 27.6-1.7. European Athletics Championships 2012 Europe s top athletes will compete for gold under the midnight sun in Helsinki. The events are all packed into five days, guaranteeing exciting events for all spectators. The packed Olympic Stadium is worth experiencing in person! www.helsinki2012.fi 74
Helsinki 200 years as capital In 2012 Helsinki celebrates the bicentennial of becoming Finland s capital. In 1812 Helsinki was made the capital of what was then the autonomous Grand Duchy of Finland. This marked the most important turning point in Helsinki s history, initiating the city s rapid development. The programme for the anniversary year includes special exhibitions and a wide range of city events. The main stage is Unioninkatu street, which was named after the union between Finland and Russia. In the autumn the Blue Line laser beam will connect the Tähtitorninmäki hill and Kallio Cathedral. www.helsinki200.fi AUGUST 10-12.8. Flow Festival, electronic music, Suvilahti 17-26.8. Espoo Ciné International Film Festival, Espoo 17.8-2.9. Helsinki Festival, events throughout the city 18.8. Helsinki City Marathon, Chiquita Kids Minimarathon, start and finish: Olympic Stadium 22-25.8. Viapori Jazz, Suomenlinna 24.8. (preliminary) Night of the Arts, cultural events throughout the city 24.-25.8. Syystober, beer festival, Railway Square 27.8. Espoo Day, Espoo 6-24.8. Etno-Espa, Espa Stage, Esplanade Park Art goes Kapakka, art events in restaurants Folk Music Festival, Seurasaari SEPTEMBER 7.9. Finland vs. France, World Cup qualifier, football, Olympic Stadium 7-9.9. Helsinki Comics Festival, Helsinki 5-15.9. Helsinki Design Week 8-9.9. Helsinki Handicrafts Fair, Wanha Satama 12-16.9. Habitare, ArtHelsinki, Salonki, Valo 2012, furniture, interior decorating, design and lighting fair, Helsinki Fair Centre 13-27.9. 3. International Maj Lind Piano Competition, Helsinki 20-30.9. Love and Anarchy Film Festival, various cinemas 22-23.9. Petrol Circus, X-treme Car Show 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 22-23.9. Seaside Marathon, Espoo 28.9-7.10. Irish Festival in Finland Tour de Helsinki, cycling event Finnish Fireworks Championships, Töölönlahti Bay 75
OCTOBER 7-13.10. Herring Market, the city s oldest annual event, Market Square 12.10. Finland vs. Georgia, World Cup qualifier, football, Olympic Stadium 13-14.10. Tall Ships Day, Market Square 20-23.10. Helsinki International Horse Show, Hartwall Arena 19-21.10. Kauneus, Muoti, Terveys, Nordic Hair, Gold, Silver, Watch 2012 (beauty, fashion, health, hair and jewellery fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre 19-21.10. Helsinki International Horse Show, Hartwall Arena 19-21.10. Väkevä Viapori, local fair, Suomenlinna 25-28.10. Helsingin Kirjamessut, Helsingin Musiikkimessut, Ruoka, Viini & Hyvä Elämä, Art Forum Helsinki 2012 (book, music, food, wine and art fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre Sirkus Finlandia, Kaisaniemi Park NOVEMBER 2-4.11. SkiExpo, BoardExpo, Lätkä & Säbä, DigiExpo, Hifi- Expo 2012 (ski, snowboard, ice hockey and hi-fi fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre 2-11.11. Moving in November Dance Festival, contemporary dance 7-11.11. Etnosoi!, ethnic music festival, Savoy Theatre and other venues 9-11.11. ELMA, Metsä, Kädentaito, OutletExpo, Lemmikki 2012 (rural, forest, handicrafts, outlet and pet fairs), Helsinki Fair Centre 14-18.11. Baltic Circle, international theatre festival, Helsinki 25.11. Opening of the Christmas Street, Aleksanterinkatu 28-29.11. Studia, JobForum 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre 29.11-2.12. Helsinki Motor Show 2012, Helsinki Fair Centre Winter Circus, Dance Theatre Hurjaruuth, Kaapelitehdas Karjala ice hockey tournament, Hartwall Arena DECEMBER 1-2.12. Suomenlinna Christmas Event, Suomenlinna 5-9.12. Ladies Christmas Market, Wanha Satama 6.12. Finnish Independence Day, ceremonial events and festivities 7-21.12. (preliminary) St. Thomas Christmas Market, Esplanade Park 8-9.12. Voittaja 2012, international dog show, Helsinki Fair Centre 13.12. Lucia Parade from Helsinki Cathedral 31.12. New Year s Eve celebrations, music, fireworks, Senate Square Seurasaari Christmas Path Old Student House Christmas Fair, Vanha ylioppilastalo Lux Helsinki, light installations, Senate Square and Töölönlahti Bay Stable Elf s Christmas Path, Helsinki Zoo Christmas markets In addition, Christmas and carol concerts are held in most churches throughout the Christmas season. 76
OUTSIDE HELSINKI From Helsinki it is easy to make day-trips to the countryside or even neighbouring countries. Within 100 kilometres of the city centre you will find Porvoo (see page 79), the second oldest town in Finland, Fiskars (see page 48), an historic ironworks town favoured by artists, Loviisa (see page 49), a seaside resort on the southwestern tip of the country, and Raseborg, fascinating medieval castle ruins. Tuusulanjärvi has several cultural landmarks, including the home museum of composer Jean Sibelius (Ainola) and the atelier home of artist Pekka Halonen (Halosenniemi). Tallinn is a popular destination for oneday excursions and is very easy to get to by ferry. Further information: Helsinki & Southern Finland brochure, www.visithelsinki.fi > Helsinki > Brochures Fiskars 77
FERRIES There are daily ferry connections from Helsinki to Estonia, Sweden and Germany. There is also a regularly scheduled service to Poland. Ask your tour operator or enquire from Helsinki Expert s sales point located inside Tourist Information. Helsinki Expert Sales Point tel. +358 (0)9 2288 1500 www.helsinkiexpert.com TALLINN Eckerö Line Mannerheimintie 10 tel. +358 (0)600 04 300 ( 1.64/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.eckeroline.fi Linda Line Makasiiniterminaali Eteläsatama tel. +358 (0)600 066 8970 ( 1.64/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.lindaline.fi Tallink Erottajankatu 19 tel. +358 (0)600 15700 ( 1.74/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.tallinksilja.com Viking Line Lönnrotinkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)600 41 577 ( 1.64/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.vikingline.fi STOCKHOLM Silja Line Olympiaterminaali, Eteläsatama and Erottajankatu 19 tel. +358 (0)600 157 00 ( 1.74/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.tallinksilja.com Viking Line Lönnrotinkatu 2 tel. +358 (0)600 41 577 ( 1.64/call+local network charge/mobile call charge) www.vikingline.fi ST. PETERSBURG St. Peter Line, Nordic Ferry Center, Pieni Roobertinkatu 13 B tel. +358 (0)9 2510 2025 www.ferrycenter.fi Further information about schedules and services: Port of Helsinki tel. +358 (0)9 310 1621 www.portofhelsinki.fi BUSES From Helsinki you can reach any part of Finland simply by hopping on a bus. The Matkahuolto bus station is situated at the Kamppi Centre (entrance from Narinkkatori Square). Matkahuolto tel. +358 (0)200 4000 ( 1.71/ min+local network charge) www.matkahuolto.fi FLIGHTS Helsinki Airport is located 19 kilometres (approximately half an hour) from the centre of Helsinki. The taxi ride will cost around 35-40. Finnair s airport bus: 6.20. Regional Bus 615: 4. Helsinki Airport, 24-hour info: tel. +358 (0)200 146 36 ( 0.57/min+local network charge) www.finavia.fi or www.helsinki-vantaa.fi On weekdays you can fly to Tallinn by helicopter in just 18 minutes. Copterline tel. +358 (0)200 18181 www.fast-class.com Helsinki Region Tourist Information is located at Helsinki Airport, see page 48. TRAINS There are regular train connections from Helsinki to all major towns in Finland, as well as to Lapland. The Helsinki metropolitan area is served by a local commuter train network. In addition, there is a daily service to Moscow and up to four to St. Petersburg. The new Allegro high-speed trains cut the travel time from Helsinki to St. Petersburg from 5.5 hours to 3.5 hours. (see page 12) Central Railway Station VR Passenger Service local tel. 0600 419 02 ( 1/ cal+local network charge) from overseas tel. +358 9 2319 2902 www.vr.fi 78 GERMANY AND POLAND Finnlines, Vuosaari Harbour, Provianttikatu 5 tel. +358 (0)10 343 4500 www.finnlines.com Frequent, scheduled passenger traffic to Tallinn, Stockholm, St. Petersburg, Travemünde, Rostock and Gdynia. Travel and enjoy! www.portofhelsinki.fi
Every day from Helsinki to Tallinn. www.eckeroline.fi Sales Office: Mannerheimintie 10, Helsinki, open Mon Fri 9:15 17 LÜBECK ST. PETERSBURG CIRCLE THE ENTIRE BALTIC SEA! Finnlines takes in comfort you all year round from Finland to Germany, Poland and Sweden. Our ships also operate from Sweden to Germany and from Germany to Russia. When you want to explore the Baltic Sea region, Finnlines will take you and your party by sea from one country to another. The restaurant, bar, shop and playroom on our modern ships offer a pleasant setting for an unhurried and unique voyage. Welcome aboard Finnlines! www.finnlines.com Visit Tallinn and Stockholm! Daily departures from Helsinki to Tallinn and Stockholm! Book on-line: www.vikingline.fi/reservations Price from 22 EUR 81
NORWA WAY FINLAND Aland Turku Helsinki St. Petersburg The whole Baltic Sea within your reach! DEN- MARK SWEDEN Copenhagen Stockholm BALTIC SEA LITHUANIA Tallinn Riga ESTONIA LATVIA RUSSIA Rostock Hamburg GERMANY POLAND TALLI NK SILJA LINE Tallink Silja has the best selection of routes on the Baltic Sea. We offer daily departures from Stockholm to Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki and Turku all year round. Our fast and comfortable shuttles and cruise ship adds up to 6 daily departures between Helsinki and Tallinn. Book your trip and come to enjoy the unforgettable entertainment, gourmet delights and shopping top brands. Welcome onboard! Bookings and further information: www.tallinksilja.com/en
visithelsinki.fi VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE WWW.BESTOFHELSINKI.FI What s best about Helsinki? Vote for your favourites in the Best of Helsinki online competition and find out more about past winners! www.bestofhelsinki.fi 83
Tourist & Convention Bureau Pohjoisesplanadi 19, P.O. Box 28 FI-00099 CITY OF HELSINKI Tel. +358 (0)9 3101 3300, fax +358 (0)9 3101 3301 tourist.info@hel.fi Tourist Information 15.5. 14.9. Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm 15.9. 14.5. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-4pm www.visithelsinki.fi partnering with