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Helsinki for expats: Exploring Finland´s vibrant capital

Helsinki is a city where tradition and modern living blend seamlessly with natural beauty and a maritime atmosphere. Finland's capital offers a wide range of experiences, making it a unique place to live and explore.

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Is Helsinki a good place to live?

Helsinki is one of the fastest developing capitals in Northern Europe, attracting students and professionals from around the world. This international influence is reflected in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Helsinki is also a clean and safe city, adding to its overall appeal as a place to live. 

Suomenlinna is beautiful to visit regardless of the season. Image: Emilia Hoisko / Visit Finland

At the heart of Helsinki lies the Baltic Sea, with expansive ocean views, parks, and stylish urban neighborhoods. Close to the city centre, parks like Kaisaniemi and Esplanadi invite visitors to relax.

Meanwhile, Helsinki’s archipelago, including the Unesco World Heritage Site Suomenlinna, is a true gem and a must-visit destination. 

Explore the unique architecture 

Helsinki’s architecture takes you on a fascinating journey through Finnish history. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is Senate Square, dominated by the impressive Helsinki Cathedral. Other classic sights include the Jugend quarters of Katajanokka and the Empire-style buildings in Kruununhaka. 

For those who appreciate modern architecture, Helsinki offers a range of stunning options. Visit the sleek and innovative Oodi Library, where locals read, study, play video games, or use sewing machines and other tools for free.

Oodi Central Library offers things to do for everyone. Image: Jussi Hellsten / Helsingin kaupunki

Nearby, you’ll also find buildings designed by renowned architect Alvar Aalto, such as Finlandia Hall, showcasing the evolution of Finnish design and architecture. 

Helsinki, however, is much more than its downtown landmarks. The city is composed of diverse neighbourhoods, each with its own charm. For instance, the coastal area of Lauttasaari, the green haven of Käpylä, and the cozy Herttoniemi district are all distinctive, offering something for everyone. 

Enjoy the warmth of the sauna

Sauna culture is an inseparable part of daily life in Finland, and Helsinki takes it to the next level. The city is home to public saunas such as the modern and award-winning Löyly, the Kulttuurisauna in Merihaka, and the Furuvik Seaside Sauna.

In winter, the bravest visitors can pair their sauna experience with a dip in icy waters at places like Allas Sea Pool. 

n Helsinki, the proximity to the sea allows for a variety of activities. Image: Svante Gullichsen / Helsinki Partners

The pros and cons of living in Helsinki 

The Finnish climate is an essential part of Helsinki’s charm. The city transforms with the seasons, making it an exciting place to live year-round.

Summers bring long, bright nights and warm days perfect for outdoor activities, island trips, and patio dining. In winter, snow-covered landscapes and candlelight create a peaceful and cozy atmosphere. Spring awakens nature, while autumn bathes the city in rich hues of fall foliage. 

Helsinki offers activities for every season. Image: Vesa Laitinen / Helsingin kaupunki

While Helsinki offers many of Finland's highlights, it doesn't provide everything.

For example, iconic elements of Finnish imagery – like fells, reindeer, and the northern lights – require a trip further north. On the other hand, those accustomed to warmer climates will likely appreciate southern Finland’s milder winters and less extreme cold compared to the northern parts of the country. 

Food culture combines local and international delicacies 

At the markets, you can enjoy traditional local delicacies. Image: Tuukka Koski / Helsinki Partners

Helsinki’s food culture and restaurant scene are a delightful mix of traditional Finnish flavours and international influences. In local market halls, you can savour Finnish classics like salmon soup and Karelian pies. 

Street food is also a big part of Helsinki's culinary scene. Teurastamo is a hotspot for casual dining and a vibrant atmosphere. In East Helsinki, food lovers will find gems like the new Itis Kauppahalli and Kontula's mall, which surprises with its variety of outstanding restaurants.

Helsinki is also famous for its café culture, where a cinnamon roll and a cup of coffee make the perfect break, whether alone or with friends. 

Find your ideal apartment in Helsinki

Are you planning to move to Helsinki but haven’t found the right home yet? The city’s diverse neighbourhoods offer something for every lifestyle and preference.

Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of the city centre, stunning seaside views, or relaxed suburbs, we’re here to help you find the perfect home. 

How about one of these areas?

  • Located in the heart of Helsinki, Töölö is known for its green parks and excellent transport links. If you’re looking for a true urban experience, Töölö is worth exploring! 
  • Thes seaside neighbourhood Vuosaari is a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, making it ideal for those who value tranquility and nature. Vuosaari also offers excellent public transport connections. 
  • A modern and rapidly developing area, Kalasatama boasts urban landscapes and convenient amenities, including the Redi shopping center. 

How to rent an apartment in Finland?

Moving to Finland and looking for a rental apartment? Rent a Lumo apartment in Finland easily and carefree, even from abroad.

Lumo is the largest private apartment lessor in Finland. We have over 40 000 rental apartments in Finland, and over 50 years of experience in providing stable, high-quality rental housing.

Read more about renting an apartment

8.1.2025

Text Vapa Media

Images Oona Aittokoski, Emilia Hoisko, Jussi Hellsten, Svante Gullichsen, Vesa Laitinen ja Tuukka Koski

Rent a Lumo home and make it your own!Rent a Lumo home and make it your own!

Home is more than just the square footage we live in. It's also the significant corners around it. Find a Lumo home that best suits your lifestyle in our webstore or let us help find a home for you.

Home is more than just the square footage we live in. It's also the significant corners around it. Find a Lumo home that best suits your lifestyle in our webstore or let us help find a home for you.

Read more