Day 1: Explore the city centre on foot 

Start your Helsinki adventure with a tasty breakfast at Green Hippo—a local favourite known for its great value. Then, join a free walking tour (tip what you can afford) or set off on your self-guided tour. 

Make your way to the famous Esplanade Park where benches line the path, perfect for people-watching. From there, walk to Senate Square, home to the striking Helsinki Cathedral.  Grab a pastry from one of the nearby cafés and climb the steps for a stunning view of the city centre. Just watch out for the seagulls—they’re always eyeing your snacks. 

Right beside the Cathedral is the National Library of Finland—a stunning example of early-19th century Empire architecture. Nearby, the free Helsinki City Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s everyday life across the ages.

For dinner, rest your legs at one of Helsinki’s best budget-friendly restaurants, like the classic Café Bar No 9. 
Quick tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions during your time here, the Helsinki Card might be a cost-effective option for you and your group.

Day 2: Check out the arts & culture scene 

Kick off your second day at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring rotating exhibitions by both Finnish and international artists. Admission is free on the first Friday of each month!

Walk five minutes to Oodi Library, dubbed ‘Helsinki’s living room’, and head to the top floor for panoramic views of the city (without the pressure to spend). If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a café and restaurant on-site.

Ready for more exploration? Head to Temppeliaukio Church—by foot, bike, or tram. For a small entry fee, enjoy a moment’s rest in this architectural marvel carved into solid rock. The church has excellent acoustics, so keep an ear out for impromptu performances.

Grab dinner at Bentosi or Murasaki, a cosy izakaya where the chef crafts small, delicious dishes right in front of you.

Day 3: Head to the vibrant Vallila and Kallio districts 

Eat breakfast at Roots Helsinki in Vallilla (a great spot for yoga, too), then look out for traditional early 20th-century wooden houses in the area. Hunt for unique second-hand finds at the Moody Monday Flea Market. 

For a true local experience, visit Sompasauna, a self-service, wood-heated public sauna by the sea—free and open year-round. From there, stroll over to Linnanmäki Amusement Park (open spring to autumn) where it’s free to enter and enjoy the joyful atmosphere. Right nearby, Alppipuisto Park is perfect for summer picnics or a peaceful winter walk.

When you’re hungry, try Harju 8 in Kallio for great food and natural wines, or Levant for Middle Eastern street food. If you’re up for it, explore Kallio’s lively nightlife scene, with affordable drinks and a unique atmosphere.

Day 4: Hit the city parks 

Venture to Seurasaari, a peaceful island and open-air museum showcasing traditional Finnish wooden buildings. Pack snacks to enjoy by the shore, or warm up at one of the island’s cafés in winter.

For lunch, visit Café Regatta, a cosy red cottage by the sea. Year-round, you can grill sausages by the fire and indulge in fresh cinnamon buns, blueberry pie, and other treats. Afterward, check out the nearby Sibelius Monument, dedicated to Finland’s greatest composer. 

In summer, make the most of the midnight sun with an evening swim and picnic at Hietaranta beach (or Hietsu, as locals call it). In winter, opt for a hearty dinner at one of Töölö’s budget-friendly restaurants, like Daddy Greens. Don’t forget to look out for the SYÖ! weeks, when over 100 restaurants across Finland offer discounted meals. 

Day 5: Embrace the market halls 

Snag morning porridge and coffee at the historic Hakaniemi Market Hall, a bustling spot with high-quality foods and local crafts. It’s easily accessible by metro or city bike. 

Continue your market tour at the lively Market Square in South Harbour, where you’ll find more fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs. Snack on fresh strawberries and peas in summer, and warm up with a steaming bowl of salmon soup in the winter.

Take a leisurely stroll through Sinebrychoff Park before heading to Hietalahti Market Hall for a global culinary experience. With flavours from the Philippines, Japan, France, Italy, Portugal, and the Middle East, the hardest part will be deciding where to start in this vibrant food hall.