House of travel Northern, Central & Eastern Europe Brochure 2017 | Page 37

Helsinki, Finland
Named the ‘Design Capital of the World’ in
2012, Helsinki is also known as one of the most
liveable cities in the world. Almost completely
surrounded by water, it sits on the shores of
the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea.
Influences from both the East and West have
fashioned the city’s architecture with an
interesting combination of Nordic Minimalism,
Modernism and Art Nouveau. The city has its
own Design District with a number of walking
routes and in summertime there are open air
markets which are a food lover’s paradise. Other
notable attractions include the Temppeliaukio
Church, quarried out of the natural bedrock,
and the UNESCO listed Suomenlinna, one of
the biggest sea fortresses in the world.
Helsinki Cathedral
Our favourite things to see and do
Open Bus Tour Hop on Hop Off – A great way to discover the rich history of this
city! See the highlights and hear the true story of Helsinki. Hop on and off as much as you
like and to make your ride comfortable, there is free WiFi on the buses and experienced
staff.
Helsinki Card – A sightseer’s best friend, you can see the whole city with just this one
Porvoo
card which will save you time, money and energy. You’ll have unlimited travel on the
metro, buses, trams and selected trains and ferries, plus you’ll receive great discounts
around the city in restaurants, shops, saunas and concerts.
Take a Trip over to Porvoo – The delightful town of Porvoo is 800 years old which
is evident as you stroll through the cobbled Old Town to admire the cathedral, the Town
Hall and traditional, red-painted store houses along the riverside. Browse the charming
crafts shops and boutiques for souvenirs.
Experience Sibelius Finland Live Music at Helsinki National Hall – This one
hour live performance of Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius’ masterpieces is accompanied
by projected images of unspoiled Finnish natural landscapes. You also receive a festive
drink and a CD of Sibelius’ works. Shows are at 12.30pm daily.
Sibelius Monument
Our favourite places to stay:
•
•
•
Hotel Helka
GLO Hotel Art
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel
Cycle through Helsinki’s Central Park – Ride through the Finnish forests that
exist inside the city borders. A guide will point out the fundamentals of Finnish nature
and how their lifestyles and housing choices incorporate nature into their everyday life.
Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the flora.
Admire Helsinki on a Canal Cruise – Hop aboard a boat to view the shorelines
and surrounding archipelagos of beautiful islands. Pass the UNESCO listed Suomenlinna
Maritime Fortress, see Finland’s fleet of gigantic icebreaker ships, sail into the scenic
Degerö Canal, and hear all about Helsinki’s eventful past from the onboard commentary.
Image
33