Helsinki: 12 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know

Nestled on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is a captivating blend of Nordic innovation, stunning natural beauty, and rich history.

As Finland’s vibrant capital and the heart of the world’s happiest country for several years running, it offers a unique mix of cutting-edge design, serene archipelago islands, iconic architecture, and a deep-rooted sauna culture.

Whether you’re drawn to its UNESCO sites, green urban spaces, or coastal charm, Helsinki invites visitors to experience a city where modernity meets tradition in perfect harmony.

Here are 12 interesting facts you might not know about Helsinki

1. Founded in 1550 by Sweden’s King Gustav I Vasa as a commercial challenger to Tallinn, Helsinki only came into its own after being named capital of the Grand Duchy of Finland under Russian rule in 1812.

2. The unmistakable Helsinki Cathedral, with its white façade and green domes overlooking Senate Square, is a 19th-century neoclassical landmark designed by German architect Carl Ludvig Engel.

3. The city is surrounded by an archipelago of more than 330 islands, many linked by bridges and ferries, making Helsinki one of the world’s most island-rich capital cities.

4. Suomenlinna, an extensive sea fortress spread across multiple islands, dates back to the 18th century and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest maritime fortresses on the planet.

5. Sauna culture is serious business here. Helsinki is home to numerous public saunas, including contemporary favourites like Löyly, where steaming sessions often end with a plunge into the Baltic Sea.

6. Recognised as a UNESCO City of Design in 2014, Helsinki celebrates creativity through its Design District, home to influential Finnish brands such as Marimekko and Iittala.

7. The city enjoys exceptionally clean air and tap water, with green areas covering close to a third of its land and surrounding waters rich in marine life.

8. Hosting the 1952 Summer Olympics helped reshape Helsinki, leaving behind iconic venues like the Olympic Stadium and fuelling rapid post-war urban growth.

9. Helsinki has a population of roughly 690,000 within the city and over 1.3 million across the wider capital region, making it Finland’s political, cultural and economic centre.

10. Coffee is practically a lifestyle. The city’s buzzing café culture mirrors Finland’s reputation as one of the world’s highest coffee consumers per person.

11. Architectural highlights range from the rock-hewn Temppeliaukio Church to the Oodi Central Library, frequently praised as one of the most beautiful libraries anywhere.

12. Known for its safety and walkability, Helsinki offers efficient public transport, including the northernmost metro system in the world, and a strong commitment to sustainability that places it among Europe’s greenest cities.

Well, there you have it, 12 interesting facts you might not know about Helsinki. If I’ve left out something important, feel free to comment below.

To get an idea of how awesome this city is, feel free to check out the drone video shot in the city below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozZhsSQftgY&t=231s

Watch this space for updates in the Geography category on Interesting Facts.

Craving fresh facts in your Inbox?

Feel free to explore our website.