Helsinki for kids
In Helsinki with kids? Congratulations.
Free museum visits and public transport for children, free park lunches during summer breaks. Dozens of playgrounds (around 300 to be more precise!), outdoor swimming pools and inside sports halls, ice skating rinks, libraries with staff dedicated to children’s literature (also in English!). Numerous events and cultural centers like Annantalo, expressly created for children and families. Child friendly cafes and restaurants with vegan food, baby kinos, discos for kids and families!?
And, oh yes: The islands with endless days of swimming and adventure, forests filled with trees perfect for climbing and hills for sledding in the winter.
It is as if the whole city – even nature – had been designed with kids in mind. Well, in fact it has. This is kids’ Helsinki.
Quick tips for a smooth visit
Free transportation for kids
Children under 7 ride public transport for free, and strollers are always welcome.
Getting around Helsinki: Easy travel, everyday adventure Safety first, always
Helsinki is one of the safest cities in the world—and it shows. It’s not unusual to see school-aged children moving about independently; this is a cultural norm built on trust, safety, and strong community values.
Drink straight from the tap
Helsinki has some of the cleanest drinking water in the world. Fill up your bottles at fountains or taps—no need to buy bottled water. Refill stations are dotted across the city, especially near parks and cultural sites. Bring your bottles and stay refreshed.
Dress in layers, always
Helsinki weather can change quickly, even in summer. Layer up—you and the kids will stay comfy whether it’s sunny, breezy or drizzly.
A city that moves at your pace
Helsinki’s walkable size and calm streets make it easy to explore without rushing. There’s space to wander, pause, and enjoy every step together.
When’s the best time to visit Helsinki with kids?
Winter Snowy magic and sparkle
Snow transforms Helsinki into a magical winter wonderland with ice skating, sledding, Christmas markets, and festive lights sparkling everywhere.
7 Helsinki islands to visit in the winter Spring Blossoms and bright beginnings
As cherry blossoms bloom in Roihuvuori Park and cafés spill back onto sunny sidewalks, families can enjoy gentle temperatures and new energy in the air.
7 ways Helsinki springs to life Summer Long days, endless play
Long sunny days mean plenty of time for splash parks, ferry rides, and outdoor festivals like Helsinki Day and Seurasaari’s Midsummer bonfires.
7 reasons to love Helsinki summer What are the best outdoor activities for kids in Helsinki?
Visit the world’s first computer-themed playground in Ruoholahti
Opened in 2024, the computer-themed playground in Ruoholahti’s Laivapojankatu blends outdoor fun with digital discovery. Kids can learn about computers and coding while climbing, sliding, and exploring interactive installations—a playful celebration of curiosity and creativity.
7 best playgrounds in Helsinki Playgrounds with personality
Helsinki’s themed playgrounds, like Leikkipuisto Loru and Seikkailupuisto Kumpula, offer colourful climbing frames, ziplines, and imaginative play areas designed to spark creativity. These aren’t just swings and slides—they’re mini-adventures waiting to happen.
7 lovely parks in Helsinki Island-hopping to Suomenlinna
A short ferry ride takes you to Suomenlinna, a giant open-air fortress where kids can roam old tunnels, climb stone walls, and picnic on grassy hills. It’s history, nature, and an adventure rolled into one magical island experience.
Helsinki’s islands: ferries and routes Visit Korkeasaari Zoo
Located on its own island, Korkeasaari Zoo is home to arctic foxes, Amur leopards, and hundreds of other species. It’s a great place to combine animal encounters with beautiful views of the Baltic Sea.
7 places to see wildlife in Helsinki
Which museums are great for kids in Helsinki?
More family fun activities in Helsinki
