Until now, Wanderlust has stayed pretty exotic from a Western perspective. With the exception of Marrakech, Morocco, this blog has stayed out in Asia. Don’t get to thinking that I only want to backpack across that continent (although how cool would that be?!), because there are cool places all over the globe! For a change of pace, we move to Europe for this week. Specifically Finland. Even more specifically, Helsinki.
Both the capital and the largest city in Finland, Helsinki is comfortably nested between Stockholm, Sweden and Saint Petersburg, Russia. It’s pretty famous for being just all around awesome. Besides being a beautiful Christmas card of a town, Helsinki has been named the Most Livable City in the World, lies beside a crystal clear river, and features the famed Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). Just in case looking at pretty things isn’t enough for you, here’s three things to do in Helsinki!
1. Finland Design Museum or the Finnish Museum of Photography
Okay, so admittedly, this is two things that I counted as one. That’s because museums are really a take-it-or-leave-it for people. So… options. The Design Museum is pretty much the epitome of the word ‘aesthetic.’ Not as much art in the classical sense as just eye pleasing constructions, arrangements, and assemblies. I dunno, it’s hard to explain. Just, go check it out. It’s only five euros for student admission. Go do it. But if you’re more of an art fundamentalist, you should instead turn to the Finnish Museum of Photography. Housed in a restored industrial complex, this minimalist museum traces the history of photography in eastern Europe. Or get the best of both worlds, as the two museums are less than two miles apart. Or go the triple threat version, because the Suomentinna Toy Museum (!) is within a mile as well.
3. Uspenski Cathedral
Classic East European cities often feature beautiful architecture and religious history. Experience both in the Uspenski Cathedral, which stands essentially by itself in the city, as if it’s just THAT cool and doesn’t need any other buildings. You have a little trek up its platform-like base to get to the building, but after that, you get quite an impressive view of the city from inside. In December, a Christmas market arises in the street in front of the building, celebrating Jesus’ birth with capitalism or something like that. Definitely a staple of the city, and a stop you shouldn’t miss.
4. Hakaniemi and Kauppatori Markets
What would a Wanderlust post be without a marketplace? I love street markets, and I will always put one on my list of things to do in a certain city. TripAdvisor (aka, bae) seems torn on which of these street markets is superior. Kauppatori Market lies on the harbor, making for some sick views and some fresh seafood. Hakaniemi is closer to the middle of the city, and features some cheap prices for stuff like fresh baked bread and locally made bread. I think the general consensus is Kauppatori is more summer-oriented (being on the river) while Hakaniemi really reigns over the winter months. If I ever find myself in Helsinki, I’ll let you know.
Helsinki, Finland is pretty off the beaten path for most European-bound Americans, so maybe you should consider adding it to your list of places to see this summer. It’s so far north that the days are pretty long in the warmer months, so you’ll be able to fit tons of stuff into every day! Whether you take my activity suggestions or not, I think it’s fair to say that there’s plenty to do in this historical, cultural, and commercial gem. See you next time with a new city!
Sources:
http://www.valokuvataiteenmuseo.fi/en
http://www.designmuseum.fi/en/
Julia Sekain @ https://www.flickr.com/photos/101072337@N04/
Riku Kettunen @ https://www.flickr.com/photos/rikukettunen/
Cris Benton @ https://www.flickr.com/photos/kap_cris/
Mariano Mantel @ https://www.flickr.com/photos/mariano-mantel/
Tuomo Lindfors @ https://www.flickr.com/photos/tlindfors/