Feeling home in Helsinki

How to meet new people?

Youth centers : places where young people can connect, explore activities, access support, all in vibrant community spaces!
Cottage of cultures : a monthly event organized by Allianssi Youth Exchanges where young people from different cultures gather to share quality time, share experiences, join workshops and taste delicious international food.
Sports groups : getting involved into sports is a great opportunity to meet new people while practicing a physical activity you enjoy!
Dodo : an environmental NGO that organizes great projects linked to sustainability, art, activism, introducing new perspectives in a super nice atmosphere (they also have a green house!).

Want to do something different?

Kaupunginmuseo (Helsinki city museum) : a way to explore the city’s history and discover local stories through interactive exhibits.
Tenho jazz bar : enjoying a variety of events, from live music to themed nights, all in a really welcoming vibe.
Sompasauna : you’ve got to check out Sompasauna! It’s a free sauna, a cozy spot by the water where you can chill connect with others. Donate if you can to help this place and thank the people who make it possible!
Subterra : a culture & arts association and a cool underground spot for live music and events.
Haltiala farm : a charming place where you can meet cute animals (lots of them!), enjoy nature and go pick flowers in the spring and summer, a feeling of countryside in the city :).
Hobo Finland : a unique place with a warm atmosphere, very urban with cozy vibes also, they organize a lot of different things!
P.h. sessions : a space where you can enjoy live music, creative events and connect with fellow music lovers!
Haaga rhododendron : a beautiful spot filled with stunning flowers and peaceful walking paths, the perfect place to relax after a long day.

Want to see local events?

Vappu : a spring festival happening on the very end of April in Finland. In a few words : parades, students, balloons, celebrations, and picnic with friends!
Savoy theater : a venue in Helsinki where you can enjoy a variety of performances, from concerts to theater shows (with a very international programmation!).
Helsinki tall ship race : exciting event where you can see tall ships and experience a festive atmosphere along the waterfront.
Midsummer : you cannot miss this one : an evening/night vibrant filled with bonfires, outdoor parties, and cultural events. At that time, lot of locals go celebrate in their summer cottage this evening where the sun never goes down!
Night of the arts : on that day everyone has the chance to create their own art events, featuring hundreds of activities around the city, basically bringing creativity to life!

Liputon.fi : a great website to find cheaper tickets to see music events, but also to sell tickets!
World Village festival : a festival that celebrates global cultures. On the program : music, food, and discussions, all aimed at promoting sustainability and social justice.
Flow festival : celebration of music and art, with diverse performances, all of it in a urban setting :).
Sideways festival : don’t miss this festival to see a blend of music, art, and culture! We think it's a must-visit festival experience!
Solstice festival : go towards the northern part of Finland and join this unforgettable celebration of music and art under the midnight sun!
Helsinki City festival : an exciting mix of music, food, and culture in the heart of the city! It's another nice event we 100% recommend.

Extinction rebellion : get involved with Rebellion Helsinki to stand up for climate justice. Why ? To be part of something bigger than you.
Fridays for future : raise your voice for climate action! How ? By being there, demanding change and holding leaders accountable.
Sumud (The Finnish Palestine Network) : standing and fighting together for the human rights of Palestinians.
Rhythms of resistance : check out the Rhymes of Resistance concert! It's a powerful gathering that uses music to amplify activism. Its also feeling the power of art to fight for justice.
Somos sur : an intersectional eco-feminist collective working to decolonize knowledge and uplift marginalized voices in Latin America! They promote dialogue and protest to initiative change.

Suomenlinna : a historic sea fortress and UNESCO site, easy to reach from Helsinki Market Square, a classic we highly recommend.
Seurasaari : a cultural heritage island! It aims particularly to preserve the Finnish traditional culture and to protect the environment.
Pihlajasaari : a really cute island with its little cabins on the beach, you can observe diversity of birds species, walk there and chill!
Pentala : a must visit in Espoo's archipelago, really nice island where you will notice the aim to preserve maritime culture and heritage!
Kulosaari & Kalasatama area : perfect spots to relax, enjoy nature, and enjoy the local vibe in the city!

Uff : our favorite second-hand shop for clothes, unique and affordable ones! Don't worry, they are all over Helsinki :).
Arkadia international bookshop : a hidden gem for book lovers! The selection is unique, and the vibe is perfect to discover something new every time you go there.
Aleksis kive street : don’t miss the Aleksis Kivenkatu flea market! It’s a fun spot to find treasures and connect with the local community.
Kierrätyskeskus : also our favorite second-hand shop, you can find everything you need in there, and discover unique items to bring into your life :).

Public transports : HSL's public transports are the best way to move in the city. Choose your fighter : metro, tram, bus, train and even... a boat ! Everything is pretty well connected and easy to reach!
Recycling : in Finland, each trash has a place for it, make sure to always recycle and find the right place for what you throw away.
Reusing the cans : if you buy drinks, you can give them back to the store and get some money back, it's a good way to save money! You can also leave it in a visible spot to let people who need it to collect this money.
Riding the bikes : taking Helsinki's city bike is a great way to discover the city in a different perspective. From April to October, you can ride a bike on the numerous biking tracks all over the city.

Surviving the winter

Winter garden : a serene escape from the city filled with a peaceful atmosphere! It’s a great place to unwind and reflect.
Orion cinema : catch a film at cinema Orion, a charming spot showcasing indie and classic movies! It's perfect for film lovers!
Skating on ice : head there for some fun on the artificial ice rink! The best way to skate and enjoy the outdoors with your people.
Skiing : Finland is the best country for skiing in the winter, you'll have a lot of opportunities to try it if you want to!
Libraries & winter stuff : Oodi is a super nice library where you can read but also chill, sewing, playing music instruments, playing video games and lots of things!
Sports : when winter comes, a lot of new possibilities to do sports appear, it's a chance to try new things!
Museums : a nice activity to do in the winter is to visit museums, whether it's using the museum card or going on the free days.
Pool : find a bar to play pool, it's really nice to spend the night.
Karaoke night : if you want to have a nice time singing (or watching people sing) with friends, karaoke bars are the best option!
Sledging : in the winter it's really nice, find a good place to go sledging.
Swimming : there are several swimming pools in Helsinki that are really cool, we tried Itäkeskus' one : it's nice and also cheap.
Hockey games : Helsinki's ice hall is a cool spot to go and watch some games! Go there and support the teams!

Smelling the spring, feeling the summer

HSL bikes : discovering Helsinki with the city bikes is a nice way to see the city from a new perspective, go check it out!
Botanical garden : a peaceful spot in Helsinki with stunning outdoor gardens and greenhouses. It's perfect for a relaxing nature break right in the city.
Barbecue at Nuuksio : Nuuksio has several spots to do barbecue and it's really cool to live the full Finland experience!
Open island student party : a great way to connect and have fun, from parties to traditional celebrations like Vappu. Definitely worth checking out!
Picking berries & mushrooms : a traditional activity that we think you should give a try, go discover your berries and mushrooms' favorite spots.
Visiting the allotments gardens : lovely green spots around the city, great for a peaceful walk and enjoying nature.
Open air cinema : in the summer, great spot for enjoying movies under the stars.
Swimming at Vuosaari beach : in Vuosaari neighborhood, go to Aurinkolahti beach to swim, a very peaceful space to unwind after the day!
Flower fields : in the summer, Helsinki bursts with color as flowers from spring bloomed everywhere, creating a beautiful scene. It’s like a colorful ocean all around!
Sunbathe on the islands : soak up the sun on the islands, it's a great way to relax and enjoy the views :).
Mustikkamaa : beautiful spot in Helsinki, perfect for swimming and relaxing by the water.

Sliding into the fall

Carnival of light festival at Linnanmäki amusement park : this event offers fun rides and beautiful light shows for you to enjoy!
Picking apples : a nice seasonal activity, the Finns sometimes also leave apples in front of their houses for you to take!
Relax in the sauna : sauna is a big part of Finnish culture and at some point, maybe it also becomes part of your routine, it did for us!
Studio Nokkasiili : a really nice place to get a tattoo, the perfect spot for those seeking creative body art and one-of-a-kind artworks!
Making pumpkin soup : fall is also soup season, choose your fighter and try different kinds of them!
Hiking at Sipponkorppi national park : beautiful place and opportunities for hiking, berry and mushroom picking! It’s also a fantastic escape!
Reading sessions in Oodi : when the leaves turn yellow and orange, you can enjoy outside but you can also go to Oodi library to read new books and re-read your favorite novel!
Walking in Kaisaniemi park : a lovely green space in Helsinki. It's the best place to enjoy nature... while still being in the city!

Cracking the city - finding things happening in the city on social media

@dodo_org : environmental activism, focusing on biodiversity, climate action, and sustainable living, They do a lot of nice events and really interesting workshops, giving new perspectives and ideas every time!
@translibraryhelsinki : DIY library based in Helsinki : books, art, community activities. It's also a space for education and advocacy.
@jamjarsession : music and art events, highlighting local talents and creative collaborations.
@sibeliusglobalmusic : a diverse range of musical performances and cultural events, celebrating the legacy of composer Jean Sibelius!
@helsinkithings : every week, new unique/local events and activities to do in the city, a really cool account to try new things!
@helsinki_mag : an Helsinki magazine to know what's happening in the city : culture, traditions and infos about upcoming events!
@kuplakupla : a welcoming atmosphere in Tapiola neighborhood. What to see there ? gatherings, performances and social events!
@kohtaus : a unique cultural hub in Helsinki that combines a café, an event space,and an art venue, go check it out!
@funkyamigos : multicultural and communal events, a chance to go discover new things also!
@helsinkiartwalk : free guided gallery tours, local art and exhibitions. t's really nice to learn about the artists and their work while discovering new places you haven't been yet :).
@helsinkiurbanart : urban art gallery in Pasila neighborhood, the place showcases local artists while offering a platform for creative activities!
@somos_sur_ : an eco-feminist collective that focuses on decolonizing knowledge and amplifying marginalized voices in Latin America. They encourage dialogue and activism to inspire meaningful change!
@studentsforpalestinefinland : a network of support for Palestine that organizes events and demonstrations.
@rivieracinemas : a perfect place to go watch a movie in a cozy atmosphere.
@wheretoeathelsinki : a nice account to get tips and pieces of advices of accessible and nice places to go eat in the city!

Museum pass : with the museum card, you get access to all Finland's museums for free for one year (the card costs 79€).
Free museums entries every month : if you do not want to invest into the card, you can also discover museums when going on the free days. Check on the website when they have free days (it's usually every last week or every first week of each month).
Art district Kalasatama : an Helsinki district known for its public art and modern design. If you're an art enthusiast, you'll love the murals and creative installations there!
Seurasaari open air museum : a must-visit. It highlights Finland's rural culture and history in a beautiful natural setting that is always nice to go!
Night of the arts : an annual event celebrating creativity with various artistic performances and activities in the city, definitely worth checking out!
Open exhibitions at Oodi : next to Oodi, they do really interesting outside exhibitions from time to time and it's always nice to stop to learn/discover something new and unexpected :).
Urban district kamppi : it's a blend of artistic expression and urban life. In a few words : street art and creative spaces to celebrate contemporary culture!
Savoy theater : a really cool venue for international performances and cultural events. It's near Esplanadi Park and worth the visit (it's possible from time to time to get discount!).
Laterna magica : a cozy bookstore and gallery. It has antiquarian books, art exhibitions and even weekly events like concerts and workshops, everything you need to have a good time :).

Otanko pole dance : if you want to try pole dance, that's the place you should check!
Unisport.fi : a nice website to see opportunities to do sports : fitness services, group classes and personal training. It is mainly for university students but if you're not, you can also sometimes get in!
Running in the woods : Finland is surrounded by nature and we have the chance to have the forest... everywhere around us! For a walk or for a run, it's always a good idea.
Cross country : a fun way to explore beautiful winter landscapes while getting a good workout on great trails!
Skiing at hiihtocenter espoo oittaa : an idea of places to rent cross-country skiing gear including skis,boots... Everything you need to go on a winter adventure :).
Brahenkenttä artificial ice rink : an open-air artificial ice rink with music and skate rentals! It's really nice for ice skating in the winter time.
Bouldering liikuntamylly : a really nice indoor climbing wall that has various sports facilities. If you're a fitness enthusiast, that's the place to be!
Helsinki roller derby : this club hosts roller derby matches and welcomes skaters of all skill levels, a nice sport to try.
Salsa borealis dance events : a place that offers salsa dance classes and events. It also welcomes dancers of all skill levels to join in the fun so do not hesitate!
Nyt-liikunta (almost) free sports for young adults : check it out! This place offers affordable exercise for young adults aged 16-29, a really good opportunity to do sports.
Dance stage at design museum square : when you walk next to the Design museum in the summer, you will see people dancing there, sign up and join them :).
Itämeri plogging free kayak : a great way to combine kayaking with cleaning to protect the Baltic Sea. It's nice because it allows participants to enjoy while preserving the environment!
Finndai judo club : welcome to the university of Helsinki judo club for students and non-students, come take a look!
Viikingit football club Vuosaari : if you like football, come play in Vuosaari neighborhood and spend a good time while also meeting new people.

ESC

European Solidarity Corps (ESC) is a volunteering program that brings young people together to help tackle social issues and support vulnerable communities. It’s an opportunity to learn, develop new skills and make an impact in projects focused on solidarity in general.

C.L.I.C.

Coordinating Locally to Initiate More Changes (C.L.I.C.) is a partnership of 10 organizations working to improve the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program. Their goal is to expand ESC's impact, benefiting more young people and non-profits while promoting solidarity in communities.

Feeling home in Helsinki

Welcome to Helsinki uncovered

Google Maps' lists - the links

Local life - becoming a local in Helsinki

Festival life - volunteering and giving back to the community

Activism - contributing your own way

Helsinki’s archipelago - discovering the islands

Second hand - being mindful, do i really need this?

Being sustainable - recycling and getting to places

Leisure time - discovering the Helsinki lifestyle

Cracking the city - finding things happening in the city on social media

How do you feel ? - checking on yourself during your stay

Unconventional museums - discover culture in a different way

Sports - find what moves you

I need a coffee moment - nice spots to go!

Bars & restaurants

ESC & C.L.I.C

Thank you!

Contact us here