Helsinki is filled with free attractions and events, inexpensive restaurants and affordable accommodation alternatives. Here are some tips about free-of-charge events for visitors to Helsinki.

Enjoy the silence amidst the hustle and bustle of the city: There are many fine churches in the centre of Helsinki. Most are Lutheran, but there also Catholic churches and the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. At Christmastime church concerts are extremely popular in Helsinki. Remember also to visit the Kamppi Chapel of Silence!

Join the parade spirit: The Guard parades in the city centre have become very popular. They take place in summer (mid-May to the end of August) each Friday at 12:30pm. The parades begin at Senate Square and end with a one-hour concert in Esplanade Park. Espa Stage also offers many other free concerts throughout the summer.

Broaden your mind and spirit: Admission is free of charge to both the new Helsinki Music Centre and Alvar Aalto’s legendary Finlandia Hall. You will only need tickets if you want to see a concert too!

See the city from above: You can admire the city’s silhouette from atop the free-of-charge Panorama Tower at Linnanmäki Amusement Park.

Relax among the exotic plants and other green areas in Helsinki: The Winter Garden has been an invigorating meeting point for locals for the past hundred years. In addition, one third of the city consists of parks where you can admire the unique planning from different eras. In Helsinki you are never far from a park.

Taste the local delicacies: There are many open-air markets in the centre of Helsinki, and they all have their own indoor market halls as well. In addition to traditional delicacies, these market halls also sell souvenirs to handicrafts. The coffee tents outside are kept warm even on the coldest days of winter and serve great donuts and pies.

Keep fit in the green heart of the city: The nature in Helsinki offers the ideal conditions for enjoying a wide range of activities. In summertime you can swim, jog or cycle, while in wintertime you can skate or ski. The park around Töölönlahti Bay forms the green heart of the city and is a popular recreational area among locals. The jogging and walking paths are lined by charming wooden villas and modern exercise equipment.

Admire the Art Nouveau gems: Helsinki has some of the finest Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. A special brochure is available from Tourist Information to help you discover your own favourite.