The City of Helsinki:

As the capital of Finland, Helsinki is a modern and contemporary city mixed with layers of history adorning its streets. With modern-day architecture and revolutionary designs, the city of Helsinki is on the forefront of style. Natural beauty abounds in Helsinki providing a perfect ratio of city to nature. The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis can be seen in the winter and midnight sun in the summer. You might even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus since the Finns also claim the mythical mountain of Korvatunturi as the home of old Saint Nick. In winter months, you can take part in Finland’s national pastime of cross-country skiing. During the short summer, you can swim, fish or canoe. There are castles to explore like Hame Castle which is surrounded by a moat. To amuse your children, Helsinki is home to Finland’s oldest amusement park.; Linnanmaki will keep the kids entertained with Vuoristorata—a mountain rail ride.

Helsinki’s Highlights:

• Suomenlinna Sea Fortress Helsinki: One of Finland’s most visited attractions, this 250 year-old fortress is still used as a garrison town and a base for the navy.

• Temppeliaukion Church:Appropriately named the Church on the Rock as it is indeed a church carved out of rock with a copper dome. This underground structure is an awe-inspiring architectural gem.

• Senate Square (Seenatintori):Rich in history and flawless architecture, you can see the statue of Tsar Alexander II and the Lutheran Cathedral. The popular Square also holds concerts, parades and provincial markets.

• Sinebrychoff Art Museum (Museum of Foreign Art):This museum is part of the Finnish National Gallery and accommodates a vast compilation of art work from the 14^th to 16^th centuries.

• Stockmann’s Department Store: This luxurious and lavish store offers a range of shops from gourmet eateries to jewelry to designer fashion outlets.