Explore Islands & Parks in Helsinki: A Guide to Finland's Capital
Are you a nature lover planning to visit Helsinki? Smart move!!! In Finland’s capital, nature is part of life, not just a getaway. Beyond its beautifully designed districts, lively cafés and historic streets, Helsinki opens onto a beautiful archipelago of peaceful islands and parks, making it easy to combine city sightseeing with time outdoors. This guide explores some of Helsinki’s best islands and natural spaces, helping you discover a calmer, greener side of Finland’s vibrant capital that can make your stay really memorable.
Helsinki's Archipelago Escape
1. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Suomenlinna: The crown jewel is a small town within Helsinki. This beautiful town, which serves as home to about 800 people, also harbours Finland’s history. Suomenlinna Island, which was constructed in 1748, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most remarkable maritime military architectural monuments in Northern Europe. In the summer, people flock to the islands for picnics, sunbathing on the smooth rocks, and just enjoying the long days of the Nordic summer. Some places that you will definitely want to visit are the King’s Gate, the Great Courtyard, and the Suomenlinna Museum.
2. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum & Urho Kekkonen Museum
Seurasaari is a forest island in Meilahti, hosting an open-air museum of traditional Finnish buildings relocated from across the country; some of the buildings date back to the 18th century. Open from May 15 to September 15, it is a really magical view during Midsummer (late June), when traditional bonfire celebrations take place.
The home of former President of Finland Urho Kekkonen (in office 1956–1981) is located in Tamminiemi, a five-minute walk away.
3. Pihlajasaari: Helsinki’s Best Beach Island Escape
Pihlajasaari is just 15-minutes ferry ride from central Helsinki. It is one of the city's most popular summer islands because of its mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, herb-rich forests, and coastal woodlands. This island has Helsinki’s best sandy beach, stretching several hundred meters along the western shore, two rentable seaside saunas (Book via Varaamo service), cooking shelters, picnic areas, and a seasonal restaurant. Ferries run from Merisatama and Ruoholahti from mid-May to late August.
4. Vallisaari
Vallisaari is a peaceful island escape in the Helsinki archipelago. The island, which was once a closed military area, opened to visitors in 2016, so it is also new to Helsinki residents. Vallisaari is a beautiful island where nature, history and sea views come together. Its military past stretches back to centuries of Swedish and Russian rule. Walking along the paths, you will see old gun batteries, stone walls, and bunkers. The Island has a slightly wild and untouched feel; stay on the marked routes to protect the island’s sensitive wildlife and historic structures. It is just a short ferry ride from Kauppatori, Helsinki.
Helsinki has over 300 islands. The best way to experience them is by ferry, foot, or bike.
Parks in Helsinki
1. Esplanade Park (Esplanadinpuisto)
Esplanadi, often called “Espa” by locals, is located in the heart of the city. It stretches between the Market Square and the shopping district; the tree-lined promenade is the heart of the city’s cultural and social life. The park is surrounded by 19th-century buildings, including the Swedish Theatre and the Kappeli Restaurant pavilion, which hosts open-air concerts during the summer months. The Esplanadi park connects many of the city’s top attractions, such as the Design District, the Ateneum Art Museum, and the bustling Aleksanterinkatu shopping street. The park itself is a popular spot for hanging out, with benches along the paths filled with people enjoying coffee, reading, or simply basking in the sun. In winter, the park transforms into a magical, snow-covered walkway, often decorated with festive lights during the Christmas season.3.
2. Nuuksio National Park (Nuuksion kansallispuisto)
Visiting the Nuuksio National Park is one of the easiest ways to swap Helsinki’s city streets for proper Finnish forests, without travelling far. The Park is located just 30 kilometres northwest of Helsinki; it has 80 small lakes and ponds, rocky landscapes and forests. It offers a great opportunity to see Finnish wildlife such as flying squirrels, owls or reindeer at the nearby Finnish Nature Centre Haltia. The National Park is a wonderful destination for a relaxed day trip, whether you want a short walk, a longer hike or simply a picnic beside the water. Entry to the park is free, but you may still need to pay for optional extras, such as public transport or parking, equipment rental, guided tours, Haltia Finnish Nature Centre, or a visit to Nuuksio Reindeer Park.
3. Central Park (Keskuspuisto)
Central Park, or Keskuspuisto, is the place where you can experience Finland’s deep connection to nature without leaving the city. It is Helsinki’s largest green space, almost 10 kilometres long, stretching from the city centre to the northern suburbs with a 16 km mountain-biking trail. The Central Park is a true escape into the Finnish forest where you can spot deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. In winter, the park is a perfect place for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. There are several cafés and rest areas, where you can eat as you walk along the park. It is free to enter, open 24/7, and easily accessible by public transport.
4. Sibelius Park (Sibeliuspuisto)
Sibelius Park, named in honour of Finland’s most celebrated composer Jean Sibelius, is located in the Töölö district. It is one of Helsinki’s most iconic green spaces. The park is a blend of nature and culture; it is serene and spacious, with rolling lawns, pine trees, and quiet walking paths that offer a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. Marked by the iconic Sibelius Monument, a massive steel sculpture, the park is a perfect place to relax on the grass, have a picnic, or simply admire nature. The park is open year-round, free to enter and easily accessible by tram or bus from the city centre
By Nicolette Che
