The Best Sight in Helsinki, Finland

Background Illustration for Sights

The city center, characterized by its large multistory malls, is densely packed and easily explored on foot, the main tourist sites grouped in several clusters; nearby islands are easily accessible by ferry. Just west of Katajanokka, Senaatintori and its Tuomiokirkko (Luthern Cathedral) mark the beginning of the city center, which extends westward along Aleksanterinkatu. The wide street Mannerheimintie is comparable to New York's Broadway, moving diagonally past the major attractions of the city center before terminating beside the Esplanade. Southern Helsinki is a tangle of smaller streets, some of them curving and some of which run for just a few blocks before changing their names; carry a good map while exploring this area.

Allas Sea Pool

Katajanokka Fodor's Choice

Finland's love affair with the sauna—one of the very few originally Finnish words that are internationally recognizable—has never diminished, but this very traditional national pursuit has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity, not least with a younger crowd. You are not obliged to sample this most Finnish of activities at the hugely popular Allas Sea Pool in the South Harbour, but a dip in one of the year-round pools built into the sea—one of which is heated—wouldn't really be complete without a visit to the mixed sauna (swimsuits and towels are available for rent). The Allas concept also embraces events and concerts and has food and drinks available from the separately managed Allas Cafe and Terrace (a prime harborside sun-trap), which serves breakfast to prework bathers and wholesome lunches.

Katajanokanlaituri 2A, Helsinki, 00160, Finland
(040) 565–6582
Sight Details
€18

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