1. Keskuspuisto – Helsinki’s Central Park (actually a forest!)

Helsinki’s Central Park is not actually a park! It is the most popular forest in Finland and full of places that are worth seeing. The TV series set off from the Central Railway Station, crossed through Kaisaniemi Park and the Linnunlaulu “Birdsong” district, and then continued onwards via Laakso to the deepest forests in Central Park. In addition to the beautiful woods and wildlife, here you can also admire the adjacent allotment gardens or find a dog park shaded by spruce trees. The route continues past the pet cemetery in Metsälä to the Paloheinä recreational area and ends in Haltiala.

2. Niskala arboretum and Haltiala primeval forest

There are three points of interest in this area. The wildest and most surprising, considering its location within the metropolitan area, is the Haltiala primeval forest, where you can experience the eerie atmosphere among the ancient trees and hike across duckboards. A more exotic forest can be found at the Niskala arboretum, which features tree species collected from all over the world. Lastly, you can enjoy the traditional Finnish countryside at Haltiala Farm, where you will find not only farm animals and fields but also a nice café.

3. Vantaanjoki – Vantaa River

The Vantaa River is central to Helsinki and its history, yet surprisingly few have experienced it from the water. The river is in fact perfect for kayaking and canoeing, even for beginners. As you paddle along the river admiring its shores, it’s hard to imagine that you are so close to some of the busiest transportation corridors in Finland! A nice quiet place to enjoy a picnic is by the Tapaninvainio swimming beach. The rapids at the mouth of the river cannot be paddled, but you can get right up to the start of the rapids before climbing out, as we did. The place is also magical to see in wintertime.

4. Lammassaari – Sheep Island

This jewel of an island in the Old Town Bay is one of the most “Instagrammed places” in Helsinki. The duckboards leading to the island were replaced by new wider ones and the observation platform made fully accessible in 2018, taking this urban nature destination to a completely new level. If one had to name the most beautiful trails in Finland, this would have to be one of them. Sheep Island is especially recommended for families with children, as it’s easy to get to and explore, it’s not too big, and it’s very exciting. It’s also perfect for birdwatchers!

5. Vallisaari – Rampart Island

The TV series culminated at this former military island, which is full of unbelievable stories and beautiful nature. Accounts of the enormous ammunition explosion in 1906 are truly hair raising, just as the tree-lined alleys are truly beautiful. The observation platform at Kustaanmiekka (opposite the King’s Gate at Suomenlinna) is particularly worth visiting, as it affords a stunning view to the sea and the fortress. The observation platform at the Alexander Battery is equally impressive and shows how incredibly close the Finnish capital is to the surrounding nature. Helsinki truly is a nature capital! A waterbus connection to Vallisaari is available in summer from the Market Square.

6. Viikin Arboretum – Helsinki’s largest nature reserve

If there had been more room in the series, Viikin Arboretum would certainly have earned its place. Nestled on the shores of the Vanhankaupunginlahti bay, next to Helsinki’s largest nature reserve, it showcases both native and exotic trees and shrubs. With over 250 species, this living collection is divided into geographical and taxonomic groups, as well as natural areas. Wander the trails and discover plants from as far away as North America, East Asia, and Siberia, each thriving in Helsinki’s northern climate. The arboretum’s network of paths, picnic tables, and serene viewpoints invites visitors to linger, observe the passing seasons, and momentarily forget the city that lies just beyond the treeline.

7. Haagan Alppiruusupuisto – The Rhododendron Park

Also if screen time had allowed, the Haaga Rhododendron Park would also have deserved a spot in our series. Tucked away in the southwestern corner of the city, this unique experimental garden cultivated by the university is part public park, part horticultural laboratory. Here, you’ll find evergreen rhododendrons flourishing beneath a canopy of pines, alongside deciduous azaleas that burst into bloom each June. The vibrant colors—shades of pink, violet, white, and yellow—transform the landscape into an enchanted forest scene. Stroll along boardwalks, climb the viewing platforms, and immerse yourself in a fragrance so enchanting, you’ll have to remind yourself that you’re still in Helsinki.

Photo Ninni West

These places – and more! – on the map: