As we all know, Santa Claus comes from Finland. But what is the best way to celebrate Christmas when you are in the country of Santa Claus himself? You may want to end or start your trip in Finland's capital city Helsinki, which is a great idea. So, here are a few tips to add to your Christmas itinerary while visiting Helsinki.
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| Picture: Pexels |
Atmospheric Alexander Street
Alexander Street is the picture-perfect place to start your Christmas-themed walk around Helsinki. It's been the official Christmas street of Finland since 1949. It comes to life at the end of late November when there is a Christmas opening event. The mayor of Helsinki is there to switch on the Christmas lights, and you may even spot Santa Claus in the Christmas parade. The event is a mark for all the Finnish people that Christmas has officially started.
And while you are in the Alexander Street area, you could also go have a look at the Stockmann Christmas window. It is a lively window exhibition, which jolly music and a fairytale setting will most definitely put a smile on your face.
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| Picture: Pexels |
Explore the Christmas Market
Senate Square Christmas Market is the oldest and biggest Christmas market in Finland, and it is a must-see during your visit to Helsinki. It is the perfect place to shop for some souvenirs and last-minute Christmas gifts. The atmosphere is quite relaxed compared to bigger Christmas markets in Europe, so it is easy to get a peaceful Christmas feeling. At the market, I recommend you enjoy a warm cup of glögi, which is a Finnish version of mulled wine. It tastes extra lovely in the crisp air while walking around in the market.
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| Picture: Tripadvisor |
Start your day with a sauna
You have not actually been to Finland unless you have gone to a sauna. Actually, for Finns starting the day with sweat in a sauna is a traditional way to start Christmas Eve. So make sure you also add it to your bucket list! If you are feeling extra brave, pick a sauna that is by the sea. Nothing wakes you up better than a dip in the icy ocean. The best saunas for this experience are Löyly, Allas Sea Pool, and Kulttuurisauna. If you prefer saunas in the city atmosphere, check out the Uusi sauna and Kotiharjun sauna.
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| Picture: iStock |
Try out traditional Finnish Christmas foods
Ham with mustard, salmon, casseroles, Karelian stew... The easiest way to try all these most traditional Finnish Christmas foods is to go to a Christmas buffet. There are many restaurants to choose from during Christmas time, but some restaurants offer these buffets already at the start of December. One of these restaurants is restaurant Sipuli, which also has some options for vegans.
And if you are looking for something sweet, head out to Regatta in Töölö area. This adorable small cafe serves the best hot chocolate in town, along with some head-sized cinnamon buns. Make sure you dress up warm though, because most of the customer seats are outside.
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| Picture: iStock |
Go explore a Christmas path
Christmas paths are organized walking paths, that teach you about old Finnish Christmas traditions and the message of Christmas. It is a fun way to get some fresh air in nature and enjoy the snow (if Helsinki has it...). You can find these paths in Seurasaari and Suomenlinna, which are interesting destinations to visit even outside the Christmas paths. These paths are free and suitable also for families with small kids.
As your Christmas journey in Helsinki comes to an end, you will carry home not just souvenirs, but tons of long-lasting memories of a Finnish Christmas. And if after these activities in Helsinki you still want to see more of Christmas in Finland, make your way to the home of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi. 3-day Christmas itinerary in Rovaniemi - is a blog post made for first-timers in Rovaniemi who wish to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere there. Make sure you give it a read!
Which of these activities are you waiting for the most?
