Our journey starts on a crisp, snow-laden morning in Tallinn, as we embark on a voyage to the magnificent capital of the Land of Thousand Lakes. The allure of Scandinavia begins to weave its spell as the ferry gracefully cuts through the waters of the Baltic Sea, captivating us with its serene beauty. While the Gulf of Finland can become bitterly cold during winter, the tranquil ambiance has a way of warming both the heart and body. Don’t be afraid! Step out onto the ferry’s rear patio, immerse yourself in the crisp air, embrace the atmosphere, and savor the moment…

Here we are in Helsinki… Famous for its lively arts scene, modern architecture, and peaceful parks, the capital of Finland invites travelers with its special Nordic charm and appeal.

Start your morning tour with a cup of warm coffee from Uspenski Cathedral which is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe, and architectural masterpiece of Russian Revival design serves as a poignant symbol of Finland’s connection to its eastern neighbor.

Right around Uspenski Cathedral resides a beautiful promenade called Halkolaituri. It is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and savor the beauty of Helsinki’s coastal landscape which offers a serene escape from the bustling city center – indeed, even in chilly weather conditions.

As I stroll along the cobblestone pathways of Helsinki Cathedral, Senate Square – Senaatintori is busy with preparations for the upcoming Christmas market. Incidentally, despite the sun seemingly casting its last rays of the day, the city is still in the midst of its morning hours. In Helsinki, during December days, the sunrise typically occurs around 9:00-9:30 AM, and the sunset occurs around 3:00-3:30 PM.

There are several buildings surrounding the Senate Square… Here’s one of them. Built in the middle of the 19th century to honor the Grand Duke of Finland, Helsinki Cathedral has a remarkable neoclassical design. Its tall white columns and graceful domes stand out on the Helsinki skyline.

Right around the corner from the historic district of Senate Square, there’s another hidden gem: Helsinki City Museum. Through interactive displays and artifacts, the museum vividly portrays Helsinki’s journey from a small coastal town to a modern metropolis. There is no charge for admission to the museum.

Here’s another section for my fellow book lovers. Helsinki is home to some of Europe’s most enchanting libraries. The Library of Finland has an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and historical records, which are valuable resources for students, scholars, and the public.

Housed in a magnificent neoclassical building, the library is dedicated to preserving Finland’s literary legacy and promoting intellectual curiosity.

Modern, sleek, innovative, creative, cozy… There are countless adjectives to describe this exquisite library located in the heart of Helsinki, known as Helsinki Central Library Oodi. Oodi offers more than just a library experience, with its inviting reading corners and lively event areas. It serves as a vibrant cultural hub, embodying Helsinki’s dedication to innovation and inclusiveness.

What a delightful interior to enjoy during cold winter days, surrounded by books and great company…

A whimsical and charming addition to the Helsinki’s public art scene, The Wise Mouse sculpture – Viisas hiiri -veistos. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this heartwarming, contemplative mouse with a pencil on its shoulder will undoubtedly encourage you to stop and cherish life’s simple pleasures, finding wisdom and joy in the little moments of everyday life.

Did you know that the city’s name “Helsinki” actually derives from the Swedish name “Helsingfors,” which means “Helsinge Rapids.”

Helsinki Central Railway Station serves as a portal to the diverse wonders of Finland. Hop on one of the sleek and modern trains run by VR (Finnish State Railways), and start a picturesque trip to cities such as Tampere, Turku, or Oulu. What do you say? Are you in?

Have you spotted the Lantern Bearers adorning the façade of Helsinki Central Railway Station? Designed by Emil Wickström, these iconic figures, known as Lyhdynkantajat in Finnish, have decorated the front of the building since 1914. Positioned on both sides of the entrance, each figure holds two spherical lighting globes, which illuminate the area at night.

As the snowflakes fall gently and the city glows with warmth and light, winter nights in Helsinki offer a truly magical experience. Aleksanterinkatu, one of Helsinki’s most famous streets, is lined with beautiful buildings, trendy shops, and cozy cafes. It has a classic yet modern feel that attracts both locals and visitors.

Hop on one of Helsinki’s famous trams, and you’ll start a trip through the city’s history and culture. Tram 2, known as the “sightseeing tram,” goes through the heart of Helsinki, passing by many famous landmarks and attractions.

Here’s a bonus picture for you. While waiting for our departure time in Helsinki (and shivering in the cold weather), I quickly snapped a shot from the Old Market Hall toward SkyWheel Helsinki. Without a tripod, I tried to steady my camera on the dock. I must have moved it a bit during the 15-second exposure. Surprisingly, the result wasn’t as bad as I had expected. Sometimes, small mistakes might lead to unexpected and surreal outcomes 🙂

Whether you’re interested in its beautiful buildings, stunning nature, saunas, Finnish delicacies, or fascinating culture, Helsinki has something special for every traveler. Mixing tradition with modernity, this Nordic city is full of opportunities to explore and create lasting memories… Even for a day.