Pasila neighbourhood

Urban, more urban, Pasila.

Pasila is one of the busiest international areas in Helsinki. Pasila is also a Helsinki district that divides opinion, “you either love it or hate it” as the saying goes. For some, the concrete high-rise buildings are a nightmare, while others admire the brutalist architecture. Some call it a boring, empty place dotted with city agencies, some praise its great location and the views from the high-rise buildings. Whether it’s the patina of time or the paradise of social butterflies you’re after, Pasila has got you covered.

All roads lead to Pasila

Liveliness and low effort make this junction point of Helsinki the place for business, pleasure, and pioneering. The speed at which this area grows is not for the weak, but when you dare to jump in and go with the flow, you’ll find yourself among tomorrow’s innovations and as part of a neighbourhood that shapes the future. So, whether you think of Pasila as the second, the new, or the stop-before-the-actual city centre, this cradle of encounters is sure to capture your heart as well.

Business and Bohemia

Pasila is one of the busiest international areas in Helsinki. The expo and convention centre Messukeskus attracts thousands of visitors to its varied events, the largest of which include the Helsinki Book Fair and the start-up festival Slush.

The Pasila streetscape is multicultural and young, as the district hosts several educational and cultural facilities, such as the Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Helsinki City Theatre’s Studio Pasila stage, and the city’s main library designed by the architectural office Kaarlo Leppänen. The library opened in 1986 and it offers the widest multi language book selection in the city, along with an astounding collection of music and films.

Ever since I moved to West Pasila, I felt like I had discovered the best-kept secret of central Helsinki. I can find almost anything nearby and the great connections take me to the downtown bustle in a matter of minutes. The peaceful nature of the Central Park, the heart of Helsinki, is even closer. Calm West Pasila makes it easy for anyone to put down roots.

-Sebastian

Local Helsinkian