Helsinki holidays

With more than 30 bays to choose from, holidays to Helsinki provide plenty of options on the beach front. And, if you happen to get bored of them, just catch a ferry to one of the nearby islands – most are bordered by sandy beaches.

Hietaniemi Beach is the biggest player on the city’s seaside scene. That’s mostly thanks to its warm waters, which can reach over 20°C in the summer months – pretty toasty by Nordic standards.

Pikkukoski Beach is usually off the cards for tourists, and mostly visited by local families – it’s a little out of the way. The shoreline’s sheltered by huge cliffs, and it’s got a sauna, showers and a kiosk serving snacks and drinks.

The Old Market Hall – AKA Vanha Kauppahalli – is packed with stalls selling traditional Finnish food. It’s a top spot for lunch, and you can pick up souvenirs like sweets and oils once you’ve tucked into your meal.

The Market Square’s stalls are open seven days a week. It’s probably your best bet for souvenirs, with artisans selling everything from woven wall tapestries to wooden drinking mugs.

A Kalevala piece of jewellery has got you covered if you like your souvenirs with a sparkle. Their designs are inspired by Finnish folklore, and you can buy pieces in gold, silver and bronze.

Fans of the white and red stuff should head to a wine bar with a tasting menu for a low-key evening. It’s a great way to try out a selection of Finnish wines.

Helsinki’s secured a spot on Europe’s festival map, with open-air events dotted around the city during the summer months. For lively nights in the winter, head to the Christmas markets in Senate Square.

This dish – also known as Finnish salmon soup – is popular not only in Finland, but right across a list of Nordic countries. Think of a creamy fish chowder, then throw in some leeks, potatoes and carrots and you’ll be on the right page.

Liquorice hails from Finland, so it’s no surprise it’s got a slot in every sweet shop in the city. Salmiakki is a firm favourite with locals, it’s spiced with ammonium chloride which gives it a salty taste.

These things are Finland’s answer to Swedish meatballs. They’re usually served with boiled potatoes, gravy, lingonberry jam and pickles.

This dish translates as blueberry pie, but it’s more of a cross between a pie, a tart and a cheesecake. It’s made with blueberries, sour cream, cardamom and fresh milk.

This rye-based bread is popular throughout Finland. It’s made with water, leaven, salt and rye flour, and it’s usually served alongside a bowl of soup.