We have a one night stayover in Helsinki due to the screwy way AA routes us getting back to the states. Anything that is reasonable and easy access to the airport. Also, any suggestions for nearby food and sights for one quick days stay. Will be in August.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, U.S.
55 posts
Check out the Grand Marina in Helsinki. Been there before, going back in a few weeks.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, U.S.
55 posts
How many hours will you be there?
Posted by
OP
Seal Beach, CA, USA
37 posts
We get in around 3:30 pm and leave the next day @ 3:30pm. So an evening and a morniing.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
Check out tripadvisor.com. They have rates, reviews and maps for lodging choices. For one quick day, I would do the market area downtown (food from street vendor or nearby cafe). If you have time, the 15 minuter ferry ride to Suomelinna Island is worthwhile. It's an old fortress (now a World Heritage Site) that was built when Helsinki was just a village. It's a nice place to walk around and explore. Alternatively, you can catch the Tram to the Rock Church. It was interesting but not really a highlight for us.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, U.S.
55 posts
You'll get into town after the street vendors have closed shop that afternoon, but staying down near the Grand Marina hotel, you're in walking distance from most everything. The Lutheran Cathedral is a must see, just the courtyard around it is impressive. Both of these are in walking distance and near the busses and taxis to and from the airport. In summer the Esplanadi is a long pedestrian garden where everyone seems to be: it's full of people and activities: concerts, mimes, people having a chat, a picnic and/or a beer... It also has a couple of cafès and restaurants. Stockmann's is a famous 8 story shopping mall/grocery/clothing store/food court/and just about anything you'd need store. Very cool to visit at the end of the Esplanandi. All w/in walking distance.
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Check tripadvisor for hotel recommendations and then websites for those that seem interesting. In August, you can often get very good deals on very nice business class hotels if you book ahead and lock in your date (no cancelling). It's a small city so just about anywhere in the central area is walkable to the main sites and harbor. The other posters recommendations are good for the amount of time you have. I love having lunch in the old market hall on the main harbor. Dinner is at any number of outdoor restaurants on nice August evenings.