Snow is a constant feature of winter in Helsinki, but when it arrives is always a question.
Despite cold temperatures and snow underfoot, life goes on during winter in the Nordic countries. This is especially true in Helsinki, which has the lowest average winter temperature of all the Nordic capitals, yet offers plenty of winter attractions for hardy visitors.
While the record low temperature in Helsinki was -34.3 °C (-29.7 °F), temperatures are likely to be much milder than that, although still below freezing.
There is snow in Helsinki during the winter, but the timing of when it arrives is not always consistent. By mid-January, snow is almost guaranteed, but it often comes earlier. A white Christmas is not guaranteed, but they are more common than not.
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If you like the idea of exploring Helsinki in winter, here are ten must-see places and experiences in the Finnish capital.
Sauna
Before you think about the cold, this is how you warm up! The Finnish sauna is a national icon, with many private apartments and cottages, one of which is. They can also be loved in hotels, campsites, swimming pools and even office buildings.
A surprising fact for visitors given the Nordic reputation for unflappability is that public saunas are surprisingly social places. On the same subject : 25.07.2022 | Fenwick business community opposes ordinance changes | News Ocean City MD. Curious? Visit Finland has published this handy guide to the must-see saunas in Helsinki.
If you visit on a traditional Saturday night, be prepared to chat. You may be persuaded to do as the locals do and take a short dip in the ice-cold ocean by visiting the sauna.
Helsinki ice park
If you arrive in Helsinki by train, the ice park is one of the first things you will see. The large ice rink is a great place to test your skating skills against the experienced locals.
The Helsinki Winter Ice Park is located in front of the train station. To see also : Texas cities say streaming giants Disney, Hulu and Netflix owe them millions of dollars in unpaid commissions.
Skates are available for rent. Just be sure to wear appropriate clothing, especially woolen socks.
Helsinki City Museum
Keep warm indoors as you get to know Helsinki at the free city museum. This may interest you : Netflix star Busisiwe Lurayi has died at the age of 36. A city is defined by its people, and so the museum puts the city’s residents front and center, emphasizing personal memories from everyday life over the years.
The museum’s collection of photographs is impressive, as is the “children’s city” exhibition, where you can touch everything on display.
Helsinki Winter Garden
Although open all year round, the Winter Garden greenhouses are a popular winter destination. During Christmas and New Year, the gardens are decorated for Christmas. In the garden, that means traditional Christmas flowers like azaleas, amaryllis and hyacinths.
Oodi library
Discover Nordic minimalist design in the spectacular Oodi library. The elegant lines of wood, glass and steel welcome you to a modern library that has books in 20 languages.
The striking wooden facade of the Oodi Library in Helsinki, Finland.
Although this is a relatively quiet library, there are two cafes, including one overlooking the top floor. Although Helsinki has no shortage of cafes, this one is worth a visit.
Catch an ice hockey game
Ice hockey is extremely popular in Finland. The Finnish Elite League (Liiga), considered the second best domestic competition in Europe, has 15 teams, only one of which, HIFK, plays in Helsinki. Tickets can be purchased in advance online for HIFK matches, which take place at the 8,200 capacity Helsinki Ice Hall.
Dive into design
Whatever time of year you visit Helsinki, a visit to the design district is a must. Nordic design is famous around the world, and Helsinki is one of the best places to discover why.
Start at the Design Museum for Context, then tour the glittering array of art, design and interiors shops that line the design district’s walkable streets.
Christmas market
From December 1 to 21, the Christmas market in the capital is held on Senate Square in the shadow of the Helsinki Cathedral. More than 100 stalls offer homemade gifts, Christmas decorations and homemade food. Santa comes to visit every day.
The Helsinki Christmas Market is a festive place to visit even if there is no snow.
If you happen to be in Helsinki on December 13, be sure to visit the market. On this date, the newly crowned Saint Lucia descends the steps of the cathedral in a symbolic procession that attracts crowds of Finns to the market every year.
Meet reindeer at Nuuksio Reindeer Park
Although they are an icon of the region, you probably wouldn’t expect to encounter reindeer when you visit Helsinki. You have to go about 28 miles outside the city, but it’s worth the trip to visit Finland’s southernmost reindeer park in Nuuksi.
Open most weekends, the reindeer park ticket includes lichens to feed the reindeer and talk to the staff about the animals. Coffee by the campfire and buns are served in an atmospheric canvas tent.
Matka travel fair
Matka is the largest travel fair in the Nordic region focused on people who actually travel. Almost 1,000 travel agents, representatives of destinations and travel organizations from over 80 countries gather to hold lectures, presentations and discuss travel opportunities with the traveling public at hundreds of stands.
Matka 2023 takes place from January 20 to 22 at the Helsinki Messukeskus expo and conference center.
