Your 7 must-dos in East Helsinki: delicious treats and alternative vibes
East Helsinki is worth a day trip if you want to widen your horizon beyond the downtown. East has been booming for the past years and especially younger generations are revitalising the sleeping neighbourhood. Metro is the easiest way to get yourself to eastern Helsinki and every stop on the way has something to offer.
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1. Puhos shopping centre with an ethnic twist
When built in 1965 Puhos was the biggest shopping mall in Helsinki. Today it’s a vibrant
home for ethnic food shops, restaurants and culture. For a good affordable meal try Kirkuk or
Newroz 21 on the second floor.
The block
All around
2. Marjaniemi beach
One of the East Helsinki must-dos not to miss is Marjaniemi! Marjaniemi has a small quiet beach that is loved by locals and those who know. Little cafe serves hot dogs, ice cream and refreshments. If you are into swimming in ice cold water at Marjaniemi is a good place. The beach is surrounded by a cosy villa neighbourhood with well maintained gardens.
3. Uutela natural reserve
Uutela is a natural reserve located a metro distance from the city centre. Take a metro to Vuosaari and walk to the shore from the last station. You can also take a bike into the metro if you want to ride back to the city. Routes at Uutela are clearly marked and easy to walk along. On the weekends you will find a lot of locals to ask directions if you get lost. After the promenade you can enjoy Finnish pancakes at Cafe Kampela or have a nap on the beach if the weather allows you to.
4. Treffi pub
A simple and relaxed gastro pub that attracts loads of locals from Herttoniemi and even further. Great burgers and wide beer selection are simple ingredients for an evening where the company is the thing. Treffi which means date in Finnish is located just next to the Herttoniemi metro station. Also, if you are looking for an unforgettable night out, you might want to add this place on your must-dos in East Helsinki during a weekend visit.
5. Bike ride along the coastline
Helsinki has excellent bike lanes that follow the coastline. Take a metro with your bike to the end station or catch a city bike in Vuosaari. Cruise along the coast line and you will eventually end up back in the city center. There are plenty of cafes and places to swim on the way if the heat catches you. Just keep yourself on the south side of the metro track. If you want to take a boat ride to the city there is a ferry operating from Kruunuvuorenranta to Katajanokka. Ps. Spot the ice breakers on your left hand side.
6. Roihuvuori Hanami
If you visit Helsinki around 10th of May don’t miss the Japanese style cherry tree festival in Roihuvuori. Besides the blossoming cherry trees, the festival has plenty of programs like Japanese music and dance performances. You will be amazed by the vibrant Manga and anime scene in Finland. A true East Helsinki must-do!
7. Marimekko Outlet
The Finnish fashion icon Marimekko has its factory and HQ in Herttoniemi. At the outlet store you can find clothes, interior textiles and lower quality products at reduced prices. Also the building itself is worth seeing. Designed by a late architect Erkki Kairamo in 1974 it still presents a fresh angle on how factories could look like.
Your must-dos in East Helsinki
This alternative neighborhood in the east is one most loved by the curious foodies. From the famous Roihuvuori Hanami to Puhos shopping mall, East-Helsinki will explode your taste buds if you give it a chance. Who knows, maybe these East Helsinki must-dos will make you wanna stay for good. Helsinki for sure would like to have you!
