Getting Around Helsinki: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking
Walkability
Helsinki is a delight for travelers who prefer to explore on foot. The city center is designed with pedestrians in mind, offering a compact, accessible layout packed with attractions. From hotels to eateries and co-working spaces, everything is conveniently located within walking range. The city invests significantly in pedestrian pathways and urban parks, enhancing the experience and making sightseeing both easy and enjoyable, even during the colder months.
Public Transit
For travelers relying on public transit, Helsinki presents an outstanding scenario. The city's public transport network, managed by HSL, includes buses, trams, a metro, and even ferries, all seamlessly integrated. This comprehensive system allows for straightforward navigation, supported by an app that simplifies ticketing and planning. The efficient tram network, coupled with quick access to the airport through the metro and trains, enhances connectivity within and beyond the city.
Bikeability
Bicycling around Helsinki is a pleasurable choice, with extensive and well-maintained cycling paths crisscrossing the city. Travelers can enjoy scenic coastal routes and dedicated bike lanes, backed by a popular bike-sharing program available from spring to autumn. Though cycling in winter can be challenging, the city's commitment to expanding and maintaining its cycling infrastructure ensures a positive biking experience for most of the year.
Reviews
I've been here just under a week so it might be too early to comment on Helsinki, but so far I like it. I'd like to second what the review from 9 mths ago said: I can recommend Noli Studios, specifically the Herttoniemi one. I'll tell you more about Finland once I've been here longer.
Helsinki, FInland, for one week in late July 2023. Short story: I would go there again in a heartbeat. Its safe, fun, trendy. It has great public transit in the core and to the airport, and is REALLY pedestrian friendly. English is readily spoken in the downtown core. Food from local and worldwide tastes is available and I did not have a single bad meal there. Check the opening/closing times for restaurants and bars- they vary wildly (Google maps is good for this, but not infallible). Internet was fast at my Hotel (Hotel Anna). I did not use co-working spaces. Nature is close by with a ferry cruise to local islands, and Estonia is a fast 3 hour boat ride away. Everyone was friendly to me, even though I knew none of the local official languages (Finnish and Swedish). Of course, YMMV but I had a great time as a solo traveller. Check the weather chart for your time of travel.
I've been in Helsinki on New Year's Eve and it's been okay. There isn't lots of fireworks but in front of the main cathedral you'll find some. Cafe-scene is great and you also find lots of places to work from. The city is walkable, although I wouldn't recommend doing that in winter as it'll be freaking cold.
Surprisingly you can find lots of vegan options. No matter if you're in a super-market (I can tell you, I've never seen so many different replacement products) or in a cafe. It's way better than other Scandinavian cities such aus Lund, Copenhagen and so on.
All in all I think it's worth a visit but wouldn't stay here for longer or come back, too often.
Pros:
- great public transport
- lots of vegan options
- great cafe-scene
- suprisingly friendly people (I always heard that Finnish people are rude, but it's not true from my experience)
Cons:
- super expensive (especially alcohol and eating out)
- cold AF in winter
- not too many things to do
If you want to have a great place to stay, meet people and be able to work, I can recommend Noli Studios. I stayed in Noli Sörnäinen with my girlfriend and enjoyed the place. Also has pretty good connections to almost anywhere in Helsinki.