travel tips

Hidden Gems in Helsinki: Off the Beaten Path Adventure

Looking for something unique in Helsinki, beyond the usual cathedrals and shopping streets? Here’s a day filled with local favorites and hidden gems.

☀️ Morning: Walk in Hietaniemi Cemetery & beach area
It might sound odd, but Hietaniemi Cemetery is stunning, full of beautiful old graves and art. Nearby is Hietaniemi beach if you want a quick seaside walk.

🥟 Midday: Lunch at Hietalahden Market Hall
Try Finnish delicacies or even Asian street food at this atmospheric old market hall. Much less touristy than Kauppatori.

🧩 Afternoon: Dive into a surreal adventure at aMazed Games
Skip the typical city tours and step into another world with an escape room at aMazed Games. Our escape rooms are not just puzzles – they’re cinematic experiences, perfect for couples or friends who want something memorable to talk about after. Why not play a KGB-The Red Dot escape room and immerse into a historical conspiracy?

Book your game here →

🍸 Evening: Drinks at Liberty or Death
End your day with craft cocktails at this speakeasy-style bar, one of Helsinki’s best kept secrets.

Explore more things to do in Helsinki:
Plan a Fun day in Helsinki with kids or see what to do on a Rainy day in Helsinki for cozy indoor fun.

Fun Day in Helsinki with Kids: Markets, Animals, and a Real Adventure

Traveling to Helsinki with your family? Here’s a playful day plan that keeps kids entertained, rain or shine.

🍓 Morning: Helsinki Market Square (Kauppatori)
Start with fresh berries or sweet cinnamon buns at the market. Kids love feeding the seagulls (watch your snacks!) and seeing the colorful stalls.

🦭 Late Morning: Helsinki Sea Life or Korkeasaari Zoo
If the weather’s good, hop on a short ferry to Korkeasaari Zoo. Otherwise, explore the magical underwater world at Sea Life.

🕵️ Afternoon: Solve puzzles together at aMazed Games
Older kids (around 6+) and teens will absolutely love the escape rooms at aMazed Games.The games are not scary, but full of clever clues, beautiful environments, and a great way to bond as a family team. Choose a room that suits your group – and remember, they’re all in English too! For families with kids we suggest for example Voyage escape room, it has wonderful surprises for all ages!

Learn more here →

🍕 Evening: Pizza and gelato in Kamppi
Finish the day with something easy and crowd-pleasing. Try Pjazza for Italian-style pizzas or get takeaway and eat in your hotel with a movie.

Want more Helsinki ideas?
Try our Perfect rainy day in Helsinki itinerary or discover Hidden gems around Helsinki that locals love.

A Perfect Rainy Day in Helsinki: Cozy Cafes, Design, and an Epic Escape Room

Visiting Helsinki but the weather isn't playing along? Don’t worry – Helsinki is full of amazing indoor activities that will turn any rainy day into a memorable adventure.

Here’s a perfect itinerary for a cozy, fun day in the Finnish capital:

☕ Morning: Warm up with brunch at Café Ekberg
Start your day at Helsinki’s oldest café, Café Ekberg on Bulevardi. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and Finnish coffee while watching the rain trickle down the windows.

🎨 Late Morning: Explore the Design Museum
Just a short walk away, the Design Museum is a must for anyone curious about Finnish style and innovation. Dive into exhibits on iconic Finnish design, from glassware to modern fashion.

🔍 Afternoon: Challenge yourself at aMazed Games Escape Rooms
Now for something thrilling! Head to aMazed Games on Köydenpunojankatu 4.
This isn’t your typical escape room – the games here are immersive adventures, with stunning set design and creative puzzles that will keep your whole group engaged. Plus, it’s perfect for a rainy day since everything is indoors.

The Alchemia game, for instance, takes you on a mysterious alchemist adventure (It was nominated for an international Terpeca award in 2024). No crawling required – just your wits and teamwork.

Check out aMazed Games games here →

🍽 Evening: Dinner by the sea at Ravintola Nokka
Wrap up your day with Finnish delicacies at Ravintola Nokka, overlooking the harbor. Try local fish dishes or seasonal mushrooms, paired with a glass of crisp white wine.

✅ Tip: If you still have energy, stroll through nearby Katajanokka and admire the art nouveau buildings lit up in the evening rain.

Looking for more Helsinki inspiration?
Check out our Fun day in Helsinki with kids or explore some Hidden gems in Helsinki for unique adventures.