'In terms of must-see sights in Helsinki, there's a fair number squeezed into the Finnish capital city. These are the highlights of our recent trip...'
Esplanade Park
This park, which sits between the north and south esplanade in the city, is a popular picnic spot and meeting place. During summer, the park hosts a range of events and concerts. If that's not your thing, there are lots of high-end shops here to relieve you of your hard earned money.
South Harbour looking to Market Square
Thus city centre square is home to the oldest stone building in Helsinki; Serderholm House. Most of the neoclassical architecture in the square was designed by Carl Ludvig Engel, including the University of Helsinki, the National Library of Finland and, of course, Helsinki Cathedral.
Olympic StadiumThe sports venue was originally designed and built for the summer games in 1940. However, as these were cancelled due to the outbreak of war, the park wasn't actually used until 1952.
These days, although the capacity has been reduced, the stadium is often used for sporting events and concerts. What's not always widely publicised is that the stadium's tower, which stands at 238 feet, offers visitors a spectacular view of the Helsinki landscape.
Helsinki CathedralThis Evangelical Lutheran church is possibly the most iconic building in the city. It's certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions and it makes for a great photo! The signature green dome is surrounded by 4 smaller domes and the bright white of its exterior walls ensure it's the highlight of Senate Square.
The cathedral is also beautiful when lit up at night. This has to be top of the list for must-see sights in Helsinki.
Helsinki Cathedral
We were lucky enough to be able to experience the market while we were visiting Helsinki and it's a great way to get to know the locals and pick up some souvenirs.
The square sits right on the south harbour and is very popular in October when the herring sales start. It's a great place to grab a coffee in one of the tented cafes and do a spot of people watching.
Kamppi Chapel of SilenceThis structure, made from Finnish wood, sits at the entrance to Kamppi mall. It represents a quiet space in one of the busiest parts of the city.
Although it has 'chapel' in its name, the space is completely non-religious and no ceremonies are held here. It is simply a calm space to be enjoyed by anyone.
Uspenski Cathedral
Although Helsinki Cathedral gets the most attention, this is my favourite building in the city. The red brick building with the green and gold domes is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. Because of its location on a hill, it also offers great views across the city streets.
Church of the Rock
This wasn't universally popular with locals when it was Bully in 1969, and you can see why when you consider its literally built from a massive piece of rock. However, its amazing design has made it one of the city's most talked about attractions and it's impressive inside and out.
Sibelius Park & Monument
This is another abstract design that didn't win many fans when it was first submitted as part of a design competition. The Monument, which is a tribute to Finnish composer, Jean Sibelius, comprises 600 hollow steel pipes.
Sibelius Monument
Located opposite the main Helsinki Central Station, the museum houses the largest classical art collection in Finland. The collection ranges from classical 18th-century art to modern pieces from the 20th century.
Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress
Designed to repel unwanted advances from Russia, this fortress was built across 6 islands. These days, there's far less threat from Finland's neighbours, so the fortress is mostly a visitor attraction and space for locals to meet in the summer.
The fortress is accessible via ferry from Market Square and is a 15-20 minute journey.
What are your must-see sights in Helsinki?
