Helsinki: Overview

A little bit Swedish, a little bit Russian - totally Finnish.

Helsinki retains a small-town feel: there are no high-rise buildings and the market square is still surrounded by 19th-century architecture. Its green parks and waterways, fresh sea winds with seagulls flying over the busy market square, and many open-air cafes make it a perfect summer destination.

Helsinki is Finland's capital and the centre of its cultural, financial and economic activity. While it embodies much of the Finnish spirit and its progressive hi-tech push, it is unlike any other Finnish city, due in part to the fascinating combination of Swedish and Russian influences.

Fast Facts

Population

560,000

Currency

Name: Euro
Code: EUR
Symbol: €

Electrical Plugs

European plug with two circular metal pins
230V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Finnish, Swedish

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +2 

Country Dialing Code

+358

Weights & Measures

Metric

Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

View more Thorn Tree threads ›

BLUELISTS blu,list to recommend a travel experience

View more Bluelists ›

Jump to Navigation

Shop Online

Advertisement

Hotels & Hostels

Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›

Lonely Planet Newsletters

Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›

Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.

Lonely Planet