Take the ferry to Helsinki, a vibrant capital that effortlessly combines modern stylish design with a rich history, stunning archipelago views and an exciting food scene.
Welcome to Helsinki! This city greets visitors with a kaleidoscope of modernity and tradition. Its striking architecture and lively cultural atmosphere create a perfect mix of old and new. As a top destination year-round, tourists flock to Helsinki for its historic landmarks, world-class museums, trendy restaurants, lively bars and quaint shops. Helsinki’s picturesque parks and waterfront promenades are ideal for leisurely walks, making it a city worth exploring.
Below, we will provide essential details about ferry connections, transportation in the city and how to book tickets for your trip to Helsinki, ensuring a memorable travel experience.
When to visit Helsinki
- Summer (June to August): Best for outdoor activities, long daylight hours and vibrant festivals
- Winter (December to February): Perfect for snow sports, cozy saunas and the possibility of seeing the northern lights
Ferry connections to Helsinki
Helsinki is a major hub for Baltic Sea ferries, offering excellent connections to multiple destinations. Here's an overview of the services:
- Tallinn, Estonia to Helsinki: The most popular route, with frequent ferries running between Helsinki and Tallinn. Ideal for day trips or longer stays
- Stockholm, Sweden to Helsinki: Night ferries connect Helsinki with Stockholm, offering scenic views of the Baltic Sea
- Mariehamn, Åland Islands to Helsinki: Ferries from the Åland Islands provide access to this picturesque archipelago
Seasonality & frequency of routes
Seasonality
- Peak Season (May to August): Ferry services are most frequent during summer, with multiple daily departures to Tallinn and Stockholm
- Low Season (September to April): Ferries operate year-round, though schedules are reduced in winter. Some routes may run minimally, but key connections remain active
Frequency
- Helsinki to Tallinn: Ferries run every 30 minutes during peak season, with fewer departures in winter. Duration approximately 2 hours
- Helsinki to Stockholm: Generally, 1–2 overnight sailings per day. Duration around 16 hours
Types of ferry boats to Helsinki
- High-speed ferries: Perfect for shorter trips with quicker crossings and minimal onboard amenities
- Conventional ferries: Ideal for longer journeys, offering a range of facilities, including restaurants, shops and entertainment
Tips for travelers
- Language: Finnish and Swedish are official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
- Currency: The Euro (€) is used throughout Finland
- Booking: Plan ahead and book your ferry tickets early, especially during peak seasons
Getting around in Helsinki
Once you arrive, exploring Helsinki is a breeze, thanks to its efficient transport system and pedestrian-friendly layout.
- Metro: Helsinki’s metro system is the northernmost in the world. It’s reliable and connects the city center with eastern suburbs and Espoo
- Trams: The tram network is particularly convenient in the downtown area. Tram 2 is a popular route for tourists, passing key sights
- Buses: Buses serve areas beyond the metro and tram lines, providing access to suburbs and nearby attractions
More information about metro, buses and trams in Helsinki can be found here.
- Taxis & private transfers: Taxis are widely available and private transfer services are also operating in Helsinki
- Car rentals: While not necessary for exploring Helsinki, renting a car is useful for trips beyond the city. However, parking in central Helsinki can be expensive and limited
- Biking: Helsinki is bike-friendly, with many lanes and rental options, including the CityBike sharing system
- Walking: The compact city center is perfect for walking, with many attractions located close to each other
Helsinki Card
Tourists can save money with the Helsinki Card, which offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at major attractions.
Attractions in Helsinki
Helsinki boasts a wealth of sights that highlight its rich history, cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located on several islands near Helsinki. This historic fortress is accessible by ferry and offers museums, walking trails, and stunning views
- Helsinki Cathedral: A striking neoclassical landmark in Senate Square with panoramic views from its steps
- Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church): A unique architectural gem carved into rock, with a serene interior and excellent acoustics for concerts
- Market Square (Kauppatori): A bustling open-air market by the harbor, perfect for local produce and souvenirs
- Esplanadi Park: A central green space ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics and summer concerts
- Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art: Showcasing avant-garde art from Finnish and international artists
Activities in Helsinki
- Finnish sauna experience: Visit public or private saunas for a quintessential Finnish tradition. Löyly, a waterfront sauna with modern design, is a must-visit
- Island hopping: Explore nearby islands like Pihlajasaari and Lonna for outdoor adventures
- City tours: Guided walking or biking tours are a great way to learn about Helsinki’s history and culture
- Finnish cuisine: Try local dishes like kalakukko, karjalanpiirakka and rye bread at Helsinki’s restaurants and cafes
- Winter activities: In colder months, enjoy skiing, ice skating or a traditional Christmas market
