10 things to do in Helsinki this winter
Despite the low temperatures and snow underfoot, life goes on in the Nordic countries in winter. This is especially true in Helsinki, which has the coldest average winter temperature of the Nordic capitals, but which offers plenty of winter destinations for the hardy traveler.
Although the record low temperature in Helsinki was -34.3 °C (-29.7 °F), temperatures are likely to be much milder, although still on the freezing side.
There is snow in Helsinki in winter, but its arrival time is not always uniform. By mid-January, snow is guaranteed, but it often arrives earlier. White Christmases are not guaranteed, but they are more common than not.
If you like the idea of exploring Helsinki in winter, here are ten must-see places and experiences in the Finnish capital.
Sauna
Before you think about catching a cold, this is how you warm up! The Finnish sauna is a national icon, where you can find many private apartments and holiday cottages. They can also like hotels, campsites, swimming pools and even office buildings.
A surprising fact for visitors, due to the Nordic reputation for detachment, is that public saunas are surprisingly social places. Curious? Visit Finland has published this handy must-have guide saunas in Helsinki.
If you’re visiting on a traditional Saturday night, be prepared to chat. You might also be persuaded to do as the locals do, and after a visit to the sauna, you’ll quickly take a dip in the ice-cold ocean.
Helsinki Ice Park
If you arrive in Helsinki by train, Jääpuisto is one of the first things you see. The large ice rink is a great place to test your skating skills against experienced locals.
Skates are available for rent. Just make sure you wear appropriate clothing, especially woolen socks.
Helsinki City Museum
Warm up indoors and get to know Helsinki in the free city museum. A city is defined by its people, so the museum puts the city’s residents first by highlighting personal memories of everyday life over the years.
The museum’s photo collection is impressive, as is the “children’s city” exhibition, where you can touch everything on display.
Helsinki winter garden
Although the greenhouses are open all year round, they Conservatory are a popular winter destination. During Christmas and New Year, the gardens are decorated for Christmas. In the garden, that means traditional Christmas flowers like azaleas, amaryllis and hyacinths.
Library of Ood
Get to know Nordic minimalist design in the wonderful Oodi library. The elegant lines of wood, glass and steel welcome you to a modern library with books in 20 languages.
Although this is a relatively quiet library, there are two cafes, one with a view on the top floor. Although there is no shortage of cafes in Helsinki, this one is worth a visit.
Take a hockey game
Ice hockey is very popular in Finland. The Finnish Elite League, considered the second best domestic competition in Europe (League) contains 15 teams, of which only one, HIFK, plays in Helsinki. Tickets can be bought in advance online for HIFK matches, which are played in Helsinki’s 8,200-seat ice rink.
Dive into design
No matter what time of year you visit Helsinki, a visit to the design district is a must. Nordic design is known all over the world and Helsinki is one of the best places to find out why.
Start at the Design Museum and then explore the art, design and interior design shops lining the design area’s walkable streets.
christmas market
1.-21. December, the capital’s Christmas market in the shadow of the Helsinki Cathedral. More than 100 stalls offer homemade gifts, Christmas decorations and local food. Santa visits every day.
If you happen to be in Helsinki on December 13, be sure to visit the market. On this day, the newly crowned Saint Lucia descends the steps of the cathedral in a symbolic procession that attracts Finns to the market every year.
Meet the reindeer in Nuuksio Poropuisto
Although they are an icon of the area, you probably wouldn’t expect to meet reindeer when visiting Helsinki. You have to head about 28 miles outside the city, but Finland’s southernmost Reindeer Park in Nuuksio is worth a visit.
Open most weekends, ticket Reindeer park includes lichen to feed the reindeer and a discussion with the staff about the animals. Campfire coffee and buns are served in an atmospheric fabric tent.
Matkan Matkamessut
Travel is the largest travel fair in the Nordic countries, which is focused on people who really travel. Almost 1,000 travel agencies, destination representatives and tourism organizations from more than 80 countries gather to hold lectures, presentations and discuss their travel opportunities with travelers at hundreds of stalls.
Matka 2023 will be organized on January 20-22. In the fair and conference center of the Helsinki Fair Center.