Sights & Saunas: What to See in Helsinki in 2 Days (2025)

(updated July 2024)

Are you wondering what to see in Helsinki in 2 days? There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied in this beautiful city. 

Helsinki, Finland is an often overlooked European destination. During a two day visit to this hidden gem, experience the pristine natural environment, contemporary architecture, sauna culture and happy locals. 

We recently spent time in Helsinki and experienced many of the lovely attractions here. Keep reading to learn the best things to see in Helsinki. I promise, there is plenty to keep you occupied for two days in Helsinki, Finland!

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Where is Helsinki?

Helsinki is the capital of Finland in Northern Europe. In fact, it’s the northernmost continental European capital. Helsinki is a Nordic country, fringed by the Gulf of Finland. The Helsinki archipelago comprises 330 islands. Its unique location secured its position as the leading seaport in the country. 

Seeking Stamps Tip: Listen to the pronunciation of Helsinki here.

A Few Helsinki Facts

If you are wondering when Helsinki was founded, it was established by order of Swedish King Vasa in 1550. According to Britannica.com, “Helsinki was originally located at the mouth of the Vantaa River, north of its present-day location, and was moved down to the latter site in 1640 in order to obtain more open access to the sea.”

Helsinki has a complicated history. It was destroyed by plague and burned to the ground by Russia. However, it was rebuilt over time. Today, Helsinki is the most populated city in Finland with a population of over 1.3 million as of 2022.

Helsinki Arrivals

Reaching Helsinki by Plane

International flights arrive at the Helsinki International Airport. Arrivals at Helsinki airport can reach the city centre via a 20-30 minute taxi or 50 minute bus ride. 

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Visiting Helsinki From a Baltic Cruise

Helsinki is also a popular Baltic cruise destination. If you are arriving via cruise ship, check where you will dock. There are three main Helsinki cruise ports: South Harbour, West Harbour and Hernesaari. South Harbour is closest to the town square and is a 20 minute walk into town. The other Helsinki cruise terminals require transportation to the city center.

Plan Your 2 Days in Helsinki Itinerary

The best sights in Helsinki are described below by category, not location. You will want to decide which sights you want to see and then plan your two day Helsinki itinerary. For example, you can combine Uspenski Cathedral, Kauppatori outdoor stalls, and then ferry to Suomenlinna on the same day.

What to See in Helsinki: Cathedrals and Churches

Uspenski Cathedral

First, visit Uspenski Cathedral Helsinki. This one of Helsinki’s most popular attractions. Uspenski Cathedral is the largest orthodox temple in Northern and Western Europe. The ornate cathedral overlooks the city from Katajanokka Peninsula.

Construction on this gorgeous Orthodox cathedral began in 1862. The cathedral’s distinctive architecture is a stark reminder of the Russian influence on Finland’s history.

Uspenski Cathedral Helsinki Finland Opening Hours:

• Closed Mondays
• Tuesday-Friday  9:30- 4:00
• Saturday 10:00-3:00 and 4:00 to 7:00
• Sunday 9:00- 3:00

Uspenski Cathedral Tickets: admission is free.

Helsinki Cathedral

Next visit Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral. The Helsinki Cathedral has an interesting history. It was originally called St. Nicholas’ Church to honor the Russian Tsar, Nicholas I. After becoming independent from Russia the church was named Helsinki Suurkirkko, which is Finnish for “Great Church”.  Finally, in 1959 the name was changed to Helsinki Cathedral. 

Helsinki Cathedral is in central Helsinki, about a 10-15 walk from the Market Square.

Helsinki Cathedral Opening Hours: Daily 9:00- 6:00

Cathedral Entrance Fee: 5 Euros (donation)

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Helsinki Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church)

The Church of the Rock or Rock Church is aptly named. It is literally built into the side of a massive rock. The ceiling is a copper dome, giving it unique acoustics. The Rock Church opened in 1969 and is one of the most popular Helsinki attractions. Over half a million people visit the church annually.

Rock Church Helsinki Opening Hours: (ticket office closes 10 minutes prior to closing)

• Monday- Friday 10- 5:00
• Saturday 10:00- 1:15, 2:15 -2:45, and 3:45 -5:00
• Sunday 12:00- 2:45 and 3:45- 5:00

Church of the Rock Entrance Fee: 

• 5 Euros for Adults
• Free under age 18

Seeking Stamps Tip: The Rock church is located closer to Sibelius Monument, so combine these in your 2 day Helsinki itinerary. They are a significant distance from the Market Square. 

Things to Do in Helsinki in 2 Days: Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

A trip to Helsinki would not be complete without a visit to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.   The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 18th century. In addition to being a former military fortress and base, approximately 800 residents live on the islands today.

Suomenlinna Visitor Information

Suomenlinna Museum Opening Hours:  Open daily from 11:00-4:30.

Entrance fee for Suomenlinna: The Suomenlinna entrance fee is free, you just have to pay for the ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress. 

Suomenlinna Things to Do:

• Take the Blue Route through the fortress
• King’s Gate
• Suomenlinna Church
• Prisoner of War Camp Memorial

How to Get to Suomenlinna Archipelago

There are two ways to get to Suomenlinna:

• Book a 15-20 minute (HSL) Helsinki Regional Traffic ferry from Katajanokka (near Old Town Square). HSL tickets are 3-4 Euros for adults. Purchase tickets machines on the dock before you board.
• Take the waterbus to Suomenlinna. Purchase tickets online before you board the vessel.

Seeking Stamps Tip: Crossing via ferry is free with the purchase of a Helsinki Card.

Save time: Check out this Suomenlinna Half Day Walking Tour With Ferry!

What to See in Helsinki: Saunas

Interestingly, Helsinki is fanatical about their Finland sauna culture. In fact, Finland is said to have an estimated three million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people. When you visit Helsinki, make sure to add a trip to the sauna to your two day Helsinki itinerary.  

Visit Löylysauna In Helsinki

I highly recommend Löyly Sauna on the Helsinki waterfront.  The name Löyly means “throwing water on stones” like one does in the sauna to produce steam.

You can spend time heating up in the warmth of the steamy sauna, lay out in the sunshine, and jump into the Baltic to cool off. The water felt absolutely freezing to this California girl! Löyly is one of the best saunas in Helsinki! There is a restaurant on site, so it is the perfect place to relax and grab lunch. 

Loyly Opening Hours: (check for updates online)

• Monday 4:00-10:00
• Tuesday-Friday 1:00-10:00
• Saturday 9:00- 11:00 and 1:00-11:00
• Sunday 11:00-9:00

Loyly Entrance Fees: A two hour sauna booking is 23 Euros. It includes a towel, seat cover, soap and shampoo.

Finnish Sauna Etiquette: It is important to shower before using the sauna. Also, sit on one of the towels given to you. No food or drinks are allowed inside the sauna. In a traditional Finnish sauna people are naked. In Finnish culture, nudity is no big deal.

 Seeking Stamps Tip: You can rent bathing suits for 8 Euros per 2 hours. The area is co-ed and swimwear is required at all times.

What to See in Helsinki in 2 Days: Markets

One of my favorite activities is to sample food and browse local shops for crafts and souvenirs.  If you are wondering what to see in Helsinki in two days, make sure to visit the local markets.

Kauppatori (Market Square)

Experience the outdoor stalls in Market Square, also called Kauppatori in Finnish. Vendors sell all kinds of food, fresh berries, souvenirs, local honey and more. If you are looking for unusual foods while visiting Helsinki, try local favorites such as reindeer burgers or moose meat pie! 

Kauppatori Hours: 

• Monday- Saturday 8:00-4:00 (check for seasonal hours)
• Closed (or limited) Sundays

Seeking Stamps Tip: Watch out for the sea gulls! They are merciless and will steal your food!

Old Market Hall Helsinki (Vanha Kauppahalli)

In the heart of Helsinki, visit Helsinki Old Market Hall. This is within walking distance from Kauppatori. The Old Market Hall, also known as Vanha Kauppahalli, was established in 1889. It is Helsinki’s oldest indoor shopping hall. Wander around the stalls for traditional Finnish cuisine, pastries, cheese, gifts and more. If weather permits, you can sit outdoors and enjoy the sea view.

Helsinki Old Market Hall Opening Hours:

• Monday- Saturday 8:00- 6:00
• Closed on Sundays

Hakaniemi Market Hall

Outside of the city center, visit the local Finnish Hakaniemi Market. The two story center opened in 1912. The first level is filled with local delicacies, bread, pastries and more. The upper level has souvenirs and handicrafts. If you are short on time, save this for another visit.

Hakaniemi Market Opening Hours: (check for seasonal hours)

• Monday-Saturday 8:00-6:00
• Closed on Sundays

Best Helsinki Restaurants

If you didn’t get enough to eat at the local markets, there are a wide selection of fabulous Helsinki restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for historic cafes or fine dining, you will have plenty of dining options in your 2 day Helsinki itinerary.

Ekberg Bakery– this is a charming location to grab coffee and a pastry. It’s the oldest bakery in Helsinki, which opened in 1852.

Cafe Regatta– This whimsical red cafe has been in the same location for 135 years! If you visit the Sibelius Monument make sure to stop by this cafe. This is one of the top Helsinki Instagram spots.

Kappeli Restaurant Helsinki. This restaurant is within walking distance to Esplanade Park. Kappelli opened in 1867 and remains a lovely place to dine in the heart of Helsinki.The interior laden with art, leaded glass windows, and beaded chandeliers. Explore the beautifully presented Finnish cuisine or grab coffee and pastries from the counter. This is a must-see location during your first time in Helsinki. 

Pompier Espa– this is a gorgeous location for lunch in Helsinki. It’s also conveniently located near Esplanade Park (aka Espa).

Helsinki is also the home of several Michelin-rated fine dining restaurants. Consider OLO Restaurant or Nokka Helsinki.

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What to See in Helsinki in 2 Days: Best Helsinki Museums

If you have time during your weekend in Helsinki, make sure to visit some of the city’s fabulous museums. These are some favorites:

• Helsinki Design Museum in the Design District
• Ateneum Art Museum
• Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
• Finnish Museum of Natural History
• The National Museum of Finland
• Amos Rex

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Unique Sights in Helsinki

Sibelius Monument

Grab a taxi to see the unique Sibelius Monument on the western side of Helsinki. This monument known as Passio Musicae, was dedicated to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. The monument is constructed of more than 600 hollow steel pipes joined together in a wave-like manner. You do not need to spend a significant amount of time here, but the seaside park is a lovely place to relax for a bit. 

Sibelius Monument Entrance Fee: The park is free to enter.

SkyWheel Helsinki

Hopefully you aren’t afraid of heights if you plan to take a ride on the Helsinki SkyWheel. This 131 foot tall ferris wheel is located in central Helsinki. If you haven’t had enough sauna time, you can enjoy the world’s first sauna on a ferris wheel called the Sky Sauna!

Helsinki SkyWheel Operating Hours:

• Monday-Friday 12:00-6:00
• Saturday 11:00-7:00
• Sunday 11:00- 5:00

Helsinki SkyWheel Tickets: (includes 3 rounds which last about 12 minutes)

• 14 Euros for Adults
• 10 Euros for 3-11
• Free under 2
• 12 Euros for students/seniors

Allas Pool Helsinki

Next, go for a swim at Allas Helsinki Pool. Allas has a heated pool and a sea water (cold) pool.  Public saunas, of course, are also available if you haven’t had enough yet. Allas is conveniently located near the ferry terminal. In the summer they also offer a children’s pool. This is a fun experience for a Helsinki weekend trip. 

Allas Pool Opening Hours: 

• Monday-Friday 6:30-9:00
• Saturday 8:00-9:00
• Sunday 9:00-9:00

Allas Pool and Sauna Tickets: 

• 18 Euros for adults
• 10 Euros for ages 3-12
• Free under 3

Seeking Stamps Tip: Buy your ticket online in advance. Tickets often sell out in the summer.

What to See in Helsinki in 2 Days: Day Trips from Helsinki

Helsinki to Tallinn, Estonia

If time permits, consider taking a boat from Helsinki to Tallinn on a day trip. Tallinn is an idyllic city steeped in Medieval charm. The ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn is over two hours to Estonia. The price depends on the ferry you choose and range from 15-160 Euros.

Read This Travel Blog for Things to Do in Tallinn, Estonia and Book Your Day Trip To Tallinn Here!

Nuuksio National Park

Another day trip from Helsinki is Nuuksio National Park. This is a beautiful national park for nature lovers who want to hike, bike or ride horses. It’s thirty minutes away from the city.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Helsinki in two days will be rushed, so I recommend staying in the heart of the city. The Kamppi area is close to the top attractions and Helsinki public transport. Some top Helsinki hotels are:

• Hotel St. George Helsinki
• Hotel Kamp
• Hotel Lilla Roberts
• Hotel Haven
• Hotel F6

Why is Finland “The Happiest Country in the World?

According to the World Happiness Report, Finland has ranked the “Happiest Country in the World” for the last five years. Finnish happiness derives from their strong social systems such as quality education and free healthcare.  

Perhaps Finland’s strange competitions are also responsible for such a happy country. I didn’t personally experience competitions such as “The Air Guitar World Championships” or “The World Sauna Championships”, but they certainly sound intriguing!

Helsinki Weather

Helsinki in Summer

Summer in Helsinki is abuzz with locals soaking up the sunshine. The best time to visit Helsinki is during the months of June, July and August. Summer temperatures average a pleasant 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.  These months offer the warmest weather and longest hours of sunlight. 

During summer, Finland experiences Midnight Sun. While Helsinki is not far enough north in the Arctic Circle for Midnight Sun, it has White Nights. During White Nights in Helsinki, the sun never sets. We visited in July and it is beautiful (and a bit disorientating) to see daylight so late in the night.

Helsinki in Winter

Winter in Helsinki is dark and COLD! The weather in Helsinki during the winter stays below 36 degrees Fahrenheit. February is typically the coldest month of the year. That doesn’t mean you can’t visit, but you should prepare for the elements. If you are visiting Helsinki in winter note that some attractions may have reduced hours of operation. Charming Helsinki Christmas markets are one of the highlights of winter.

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When Is the Best Time to See the Helsinki Northern Lights?

The best time to see Northern lights in Helsinki is during autumn and spring. The months September/October or February/March are usually ideal. 

Helsinki Travel Information

Helsinki Currency and Payment Information

Currency in Finland is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted. Also, ATMs and currency exchange locations are easily accessible. 

Seeking Stamps Tip:  Make sure to save your receipts for VAT refunds if you qualify. Finland charges up to 24% tax on some items. Read the rules here to get reimbursed for Finland’s Value Added Tax.

Languages in Helsinki

What languages are spoken in Helsinki? Finnish and Swedish are the official languages of Finland. English was widely spoken and we did not have any language barriers.

Getting Around Helsinki

Helsinki is well connected by public transportation. Plan to walk, use the tram, or ride the bus for most destinations. Once you reach the city center, the city is walkable. Taxis are available through this Helsinki taxi app. 

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Helsinki in 2 Days: FAQ

1. Is Finland Part of Scandinavia?

Finland is not considered part of Scandinavia. It is a Nordic Country.

2. Is Helsinki Worth Visiting?

Helsinki Finland is worth visiting. It might be lesser known than other European destinations, but this hidden gem has so much art, culture and natural beauty to experience. 

3. What Is Helsinki Finland Famous For?

Helsinki is known for its serene natural environment, contemporary architecture, interesting museums, sauna culture and friendly locals.

4. What Should I See and Do for 1 or 2 Days in Helsinki?

With limited time in Helsinki see Suomenlinna Fortress, enjoy a sauna experience, and browse local shops for your one or two day Helsinki itinerary.

5. Is Two Days in Helsinki Enough?

A day trip to Helsinki from a Baltic cruise will just give you a taste of the city. Two days in Helsinki is enough to see a few highlights, but staying for at least three days in Helsinki will give you more time to explore the highlights of the city and sights off the beaten path.

6. What Are Some Instagram Photo Spots in Helsinki?

In addition to Suomenlinna, the gorgeous cathedrals and markets are all instagram worthy photo spots. Huvilakatu Street is a famous street with pastel art nouveau architecture. Don’t miss the hilarious “Bad Bad Boy” sculpture. 

What to See in Helsinki in 2 Days: Final Thoughts

As you can see Helsinki sights, lively markets, and Finnish sauna culture will provide plenty to do. Whether you stop here on a Baltic cruise, or you have more time to explore the city, Helsinki has something for everyone. I hope this article about what to see in Helsinki in two days will help you plan an exciting vacation.

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Additional photo credit: Tapio Haaja