Atmospheric tips for December in Helsinki

From Christmas markets to saunas and the warmth of the Winter Garden to cafés, from boutiques offering wonderful finds to tasty delights. Christmas in Helsinki will not leave you cold.

Founder of LOKAL gallery

Restaurant Espa is designed by Hanni Koroma

Katja's favourites on a map

Located at the South Harbour at one end of the Esplanade Park, the Market Square is Helsinki's most international and famous market. The booths here sell traditional market foods and treats, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs. There are also heated café tents where you can comfortably have a steaming hot coffee even on the coldest days in winter. The Helsinki Baltic Herring Market, one of the oldest ongoing event traditions in Finland, is arranged here every October. It has been held since 1743.

There's a ferry connection to Suomenlinna Fortress island from the Market Square year round, and in summer it is possible to catch eg. a ferry to Korkeasaari Zoo, hop on one of the archipelago sightseeing cruises or take a boat trip to Porvoo.

The Stone of the Empress', in the middle of the Market Square, is the oldest public memorial in Helsinki. It was erected to commemorate the Empress Alexandra's (the German-born wife of Nicholas I), first visit to Helsinki.

On the west side of the Market Square, close to the Esplanade park, stands the Havis Amanda fountain, by Ville Vallgren (1908), one of  the best known statues in Helsinki.

1. Market Square

Hopia is an old-time patisserie in Helsinki, in the heart of Töölö. Well-known for the delicious Finnish karelian pies and cinnamon buns that have been baked using the same recipe for over 60 years - with respect for traditions.

2. Konditoria Hopia

Cafe Engel, located by the Senate Square, is an idyllic café with a view of the Cathedral.  

3. Café Engel

Lokal Gallery specializes in showcasing unique and limited edition items by local artists, designers and artisans. 

4. Lokal Gallery

‘Sala’ means secret and ‘Kauppa’ means shop. The shop is located on Tarkk'ampujankatu 5 in Helsinki.

5. Salakauppa

Your local guide to Christmas

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From Christmas markets to saunas and the warmth of the Winter Garden to cafés, from boutiques offering wonderful finds to tasty delights. Christmas in Helsinki will not leave you cold....