Helsinki City Guide

Food ranges from local dishes like salmon soup and Karelian pies to diverse international cuisines. Many places offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some spots stay open late downtown.

Nightlife is lively with bars, pubs, and clubs mainly in the city center and Kallio district.

Strong coffee culture with many specialty cafes and a preference for light roasts and filter coffee.

Tipping is not expected. Service charges are included. You may round up or tip small amounts for good service, but it's optional.

SIM cards are easy to buy at convenience stores like R-Kioski, supermarkets, or mobile shops (DNA, Elisa, Telia). Prepaid cards usually don't need ID registration. eSIMs are available.

Helsinki is clean with good waste management and tidy streets.

Some 24/7 options exist such as Alepa minimarts, late-night pharmacies, and a few food places downtown.

Supermarkets carry international products. Main chains are K-Market, S-Market, Alepa, and Lidl. Most open 7/8 AM until 9/10 PM. Some smaller Alepa stores are open 24/7. No bargaining.

Card payments work almost everywhere, even small shops and public transport.

ATMs labeled Otto. are common in banks and malls. Withdrawals are usually free with Finnish cards, but international cards may have fees.

International schools include International School of Helsinki and English School. Local schools teach in Finnish or Swedish. Admission timing varies, and popular schools may have waitlists.

A growing community meets via Facebook and Meetup. Co-working spaces and cafes are social hubs.

Extensive parks and coastal areas provide plenty of green space for outdoor activities.

Safe, popular running routes along the coast and in Central Park, with groups and events.

Many gyms offer day passes and short-term memberships.

Courts and clubs are widely available with equipment rentals and coaching.

Padel courts are common with clubs supporting drop-in play and lessons.

Many yoga studios offer varied classes and drop-in options with English-speaking instructors.

Active martial arts scene with BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, and Karate. Facilities offer drop-in classes in English.

Small resorts nearby like Talma Ski offer mostly beginner and intermediate slopes with rentals.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular with good rental options.

Limited surfing due to calm Baltic Sea; some windsurfing and kitesurfing spots exist.

Diving sites include shipwrecks in the Baltic Sea. Equipment and certification centers available.

Healthcare is high quality, with public and private options. Hospitals and clinics often have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies offer regulated medicines with advice.

Tap water is clean and safe to drink directly.

The city has many playgrounds and kid-friendly spots. Attractions like Linnanmäki amusement park, Korkeasaari Zoo, and child-friendly museums are popular.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is high with legal protections, safe spaces, and annual pride events.

Pet-friendly with many parks, vets, and supplies. Accommodations and some restaurants welcome pets.