Helsinki is on Finland’s southern shore, located on the Baltic Sea, with 300 islands around the Finnish coast. During my summer teen tour exchange program in Finland, my host family and I explored Helsinki on some weekends. Like the rest of the country, Helsinki is a feel-good place with welcoming people, beautiful architecture and a relaxed atmosphere. What stood out to me as a young traveler was how well the city combines design with nature. Key Facts About Helsinki Details Population(2025) 686,595 Official Language Finnish Currency The Euro Area 82.56 sq mi(213.8 km²) Main Religion Evangelical Lutheranism TIP: for a firsthand experience, I recommend visiting during the Helsinki Biennale, a biannual festival featuring contemporary art on islands like Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari. The third edition takes place in the summer of 2025. Let’s take a look at 10 fun facts about Helsinki. 10 Great Fun Facts About Helsinki The history of the nations of Northern Europe are entangled in Helsinki A German-born architect invited by a Russian Tsar influenced Finnish architecture Finland declared independence from Russia on December 6, 1917, after the Russian Revolution and collapse of the Russian Empire During World War II, Helsinki used decoy fires on nearby islands to divert Soviet bombs away from the city center Helsinki has over 300 islands within city limits Helsinki University mints sword wielding scholars Helsinki’s nickname is “The White City” Modern Helsinki was named World Design Capital in 2012 Helsinki residents are happy Sauna culture is life in Finland
1. The history of the nations of Northern Europe are entangled in Helsinki Gustav I, King of Sweden, founded Helsinki in 1550 to establish a trade hub to rival the city of Tallinn (now Estonia). For centuries, Finland was part of the Kingdom of Sweden, enduring tensions with Russia. Helsinki wasn’t the vibrant city we know today. Most people then preferred to live in towns nearby until authorities compelled merchants from Porvoo, Ulvila, Rauma and Tammisaari to relocate their businesses to Helsinki. In 1808, Russian forces invaded Helsinki as part of a larger conflict with Sweden. The Russians set parts of Helsinki on fire to weaken Swedish control. Finland then became a Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire in 1809. In 1812, Russian Tsar Alexander I moved the Finnish capital city from Turku to Helsinki to align Finland more closely with Russia, weakening Swedish influence. The city underwent Russification under Russian rule, adopting architectural styles to match those of Saint Petersburg. This laid the foundation for modern Helsinki. Helsinki Cathedral shining in the afternoon sun. In case you’re wondering about Norway, during this period Norway was in a union with Denmark (until 1814) and then with Sweden (1814-1905). >> LEARN MORE: Fun Facts About Oslo (Norway)
2. A German-born architect invited by a Russian Tsar influenced Finnish architecture Russian Tsar Alexander I invited Carl Ludvig Engel to Finland in the early 19th century to oversee the reconstruction of Helsinki after it became Finland’s new capital city. Engel designed many of Helsinki’s central buildings to make the composed city style we know today. Engel’s works include: Main room of the National Library of Finland. Helsinki Cathedral, an iconic symbol of the city in neoclassical architecture. The Government Palace serves as the official residence of the Finnish government. The University of Helsinki main building has been a center for education and research since its completion. The National Library of Finland is famous for its beautiful design and extensive collection. 3. Finland declared independence from Russia on December 6, 1917, after the Russian Revolution and collapse of the Russian Empire Following the Russian Revolution, Finland declared independence. A year later, the conservative White Guard, backed by Germany, prevailed over the Soviet-supported Red Guard in the Finnish Civil War (January-May 1918). Finland then faced challenges during World War II, defending its sovereignty through three consecutive conflicts: Winter War 1939-1940 Continuation War 1941-1944 Lapland War 1944-1945 4. During World War II, Helsinki used decoy fires on nearby islands to divert Soviet bombs away from the city center During World War II, Helsinki endured air raids from the Soviet Union but minimized damage through effective defense strategies, particularly the “Fire Protection Plan.” This included anti-aircraft artillery and decoy fires on nearby islands to distract bombers. The fascinating history of resilience during wartime contributed to Finnish national identity and the preservation of Finland’s independence. 5. Helsinki has over 300 islands within city limits Harakka Island in the blue Baltic Sea. Helsinki has its own beautiful archipelago, with over 300 islands around the Finnish coast accessible by ferry or boat. I recommend visiting nearby islands like Suomenlinna, Vallisaari and Pihlajasaari. Suomenlinna, just 15 minutes from Helsinki, is a great day trip destination. Beside the great sea views and hiking trails, the island is famous for its tunnels and fortifications, that add adventure and history to your visit. One of the unique attractions among the 300 islands is Rajasaari (dog island). This island is completely dedicated for dogs to run freely off-leash. Animal enthusiast? Explore Our Student Travel Program for Unforgettable Animal Experiences! 6. Helsinki University mints sword wielding scholars During the annual graduation ceremony at Helsinki University, doctoral candidates receive a ceremonial sword in addition to their diplomas. This tradition dates back to 1640 and transforms scholars into literal “knights of knowledge.” The sword features symbols relevant to each academic discipline and represents the graduate’s solemn duty to defend truth, science and justice. PhD graduates from other parts of Finland can also receive a certified civilian sword during their own graduation ceremonies. 7. Helsinki’s nickname is “The White City” Helsinki earned the nickname “The White City of the North” because of the light-colored granite used in many buildings around the city center. This is why Helsinki’s is named the “White City”. From December to March, Helsinki literally transforms into a white city, covered all in snow. >> LEARN MORE: Discover Rustic’s Winter Ski and Snow Program in Germany and Austria! Helsinki Cathedral in Senate Square. 8. Modern Helsinki was named World Design Capital in 2012 Engel did well with the design as modern Helsinki has a deep-rooted design culture. The Design Museum and the influence of other Finnish architects like Eliel Saarinen showcase Helsinki’s brand of modern architecture. The Helsinki Cathedral in Senate Square is a key example that reflects Helsinki’s stunning architecture and Nordic design aesthetic. >> LEARN MORE: Interested in exploring more cities celebrated for their design? Check out fun facts about Copenhagen! 9. Helsinki residents are happy Finland has once again been named the world’s happiest country in the 2024 World Happiness Report, marking its seventh consecutive year at the top. 90% of Helsinki residents share this sentiment, expressing high satisfaction with their lives, according to recent survey. Key factors contributing to the quality of life in Helsinki include: Efficient public transport systems Simple pleasures, like enjoying ice cream along the coast Relaxing in saunas Exploring museums Let’s draw inspiration from Finnish culture and eat more ice cream. 10. Sauna culture is life in Finland Sauna culture is an integral part of everyday life for Finns, with public saunas serving as a cornerstone of their traditions. In downtown Helsinki, you find countless saunas welcoming both locals and tourists. With over 3.3 million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, saunas are everywhere in Finland—nearly every house I visited had one! Pro Tip: After a sweat session, jump into a lake for a refreshing cool-down.