Helsinki is Finland’s capital, a Baltic waterfront city of about 690,000 people (metro around 1.3 million), founded in 1550 and moved to its present site in 1640 before becoming capital in 1812. It’s known for clean Nordic design, neoclassical landmarks around Senate Square, and easy access to the sea: highlights include the Suomenlinna sea fortress (UNESCO), the Market Square waterfront, the rock-carved Temppeliaukio Church, and the design shops and cafés of Design District Helsinki. The city is also built for sauna culture, from traditional public saunas to modern seaside versions, and green space is never far away on the islands and in parks like Kaivopuisto. Getting in and around is straightforward via Helsinki Airport (HEL), a fast rail link into the centre, and an efficient tram/metro/ferry network that makes day trips to nearby islands simple.

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