Helsinki Hotels

As the principal hub of Finland, sparse in population but desirable as a country with enviable political, economic and social stability, Helsinki serves as a nexus point of culture, education and commerce. As such, the city has a plethora of fine institutions and landmarks to explore, not to mention a picturesque geographic position, courtesy of the Gulf of Finland and Baltic Sea.

Attractions

A creative and progressive city, not at all atypical for Scandinavia, with Oslo, Copenhagen and Stockholm in the fold, Helsinki has a lot to offer. The 1952 Summer Olympic Games host is rather complete, with a fine quality of life that mingles a touch of urban modernity with the restraint of a city that knows the importance of green space, culture, historical preservation and leisure.

A tour of the intimate maritime city must include the UNESCO World Heritage Suomenlinna star fortress. Built by the Kingdom of Sweden in 1748, the sea base is a site of notable historical import.

Hardy, resilient Helsinki residents cherish Central Park. A full 10 km from south to north, the space provides a superlative and essential recreation ground within the city. With deciduous and primeval forests, wildlife habitats, allotment gardens, trails, sports arenas and of course, saunas, the park is the most popular spot in the city.

Impressive Uspenski Cathedral is a stark reminder of the hegemony Imperial Russia once had over Finland. The hilltop Orthodox Church with stellar views of Helsinki regularly draws more than half a million tourists on an annual basis.

Adjacent to the city centre is Market Square, a popular plaza and market place. The perimeter of the square is replete with cafés, souvenir shops and Finnish food stalls. Grand Helsinki Cathedral looms close by. For a special experience, come in early October when Market Square hosts a lively herring market.

Events

When sun is at a premium in Nordic Europe, people get creative. Helsinki is no exception and the Forces of Light Festival is proof. Held over November and December, the eclectic celebration floods the city with incandescent installations and multimedia exhibits.

Independence Day in Finland commemorates the cessation of Russian rule over the country in December of 1917. The party in Helsinki is especially festive, with a number of important ceremonial traditions at vital city landmarks.

Another winter treat in Helsinki is the St. Thomas Christmas market, when beautiful Esplanade Park comes alive with traditional treats, gifts and of course, plenty of Nordic yuletide spirit.

The city blooms every Vappu, or May Day, as Helsinki residents come out of hibernation in droves to celebrate spring's arrival with beer-stoked revelry.

Climate

The continental climate of Helsinki is temperate, with lower temperatures in winter than most expect of Finland. Precipitation is heavy in November and December, with a minimum of sunshine throughout the snowy months. The summer solstice however, brings up to 19 hours of daylight.

• Winter (November to March) -14-8°C

• Spring (April to May) 0-16°C

• Summer (June to August) 9-23°C

• Fall (September to October) 3-15°C