Captivating storytelling from strictly regulated guides that complete weeks of lectures and pass written exams, like Smilla Barkman, will transport you back in time and tell of how this strategic plot of land swapped hands from Sweden to Russia to Finland. A guided tour is the best bet for bringing visitors as close as possible to the mysterious, comical, and noteworthy historical happenings of this special place.

1 p.m. | Get your shopping on

For fashion lovers (and those who love to shop), a visit to the Marimekko house in Herttoniemi is a must. This iconic fashion brand, defined by boldness and joy, is recognized worldwide and a point of national pride. With its headquarters in Helsinki, Marimekko is where visitors can discover how ideas are transformed into art. TIP: Plan to visit on a Thursday to enjoy the country-wide beloved tradition of eating pea soup at Maritori! 

Afterward, poke around the Marimekko Outlet to take home a piece of Finnish design at a great price. Shoppers will find more than clothes here, as the store boasts everything from textiles and cushion covers to coffee cups and plates.

6 p.m. | From Gondor to Lohikeitto

After greetings from the towering Lyhdynkantajat (Lantern Carriers), which make the arrival feel like Frodo entering Gondor, step inside the walls of what some consider the most beautiful train station in the world.

Designed by architect Eliel Saarinen, Helsinki Central Station is a masterpiece of Finnish architecture. Venture inside, and fend off jet lag with a meal at Taulu.  

The grand elegance of this Art Deco and Art Nouveau café, bar, and restaurant is matched by the presentation of its Finnish dishes. Taulu is the perfect spot to relax at the end of a long day with a bowl of creamy, comforting Lohikeitto (a Finnish culinary staple: salmon soup). Don’t forget to look up and marvel at the storied painting Maisema Kolilta (Landscape from Koli) by Finnish artist Eero Järnefelt.

4 p.m. | Into the Moomin world

Stroll through the Moomins’ endless day, where Island Riddles light your way. To understand Finnish ideals, one must understand the Moomins, the iconic, whimsical cast of characters that have captured the love of generations and remain central to the nation’s DNA.

Created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson, the Moomins “came to life” in 1945 and have been adored ever since for their curious, kind-hearted nature. 

For folklore lovers, Island Riddles is an interactive self-guided discovery walk that begins close to Porvoo on Pellinge Island. Throughout the experience, Jansson’s world comes to life, offering an unforgettable peaceful afternoon walk and even views of her isolated cabin off the coastline.

DAY THREE

10 a.m. | Get sweaty

To the delight of a traveller with minimal time and maximum desire for cultural immersion, saunas are easy to happen upon in Finland. Just 20 minutes from downtown, the rustic and charmingly unrefined seaside Furuuvik Sauna awaits. All you need is your bathing suit to warm up and a sense of adventure to cool down with a plunge into the Baltic Sea. This community space provides robes, towels and sandals! Unravel.

This third storey is made memorable by its unique sound-controlling ceiling design, natural light that would envy a greenhouse, and the Citizen’s Balcony, a wide-open outdoor terrace overlooking parliament. Leave Helsinki inspired to bring this sense of togetherness back home.

6 p.m. | Eat everything

For a feel-good dinner, end your day at Nolla, a zero-waste restaurant where ingredients are all sourced within a 300-kilometre radius. The farm-to-table ingredients used by the chefs are showcased with incredible creativity across all seasons, serving Nordic delicacies such as smoked lion’s mane mushroom or deer tartare. As the menu is always changing, this is a perfect spot to leave you wanting more and plotting your return…