Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, is more than just an urban city. It has many stunning parks and botanical gardens that make nature an inseparable part of the Helsinkian everyday life. Check here our best tips for every season and reason – whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat. Discover some of the top parks and botanical gardens you should visit in Helsinki.
The Finnish year cycle boasts four distinct seasons, each with its own charm. Spring is the time of new growth, colourful seas of flowers, and inspiring sunny days. In the springtime, visit the Rhododendron Park (Alppiruusupuisto), Roihuvuori Cherry Park (Kirsikkapuisto) or Alppipuisto to enjoy a variety of blooming beauty.
Summer brings hot weather with long days and short (or around midsummer, non-existent) nights. Pack a picnic and explore the islands of the Helsinki archipelago via public ferry or private water bus. Helsinki’s parks also host various cultural events during summer, check for example our tips for August!
Autumn fills the parks with colourful leaves as the weather cools and trees prepare for winter. This period, known in Finnish as “ruska,” showcases beautiful autumn foliage. The end of summer and beginning of autumn are also the perfect time for some berry or mushroom picking activities in forests.
But what about winter? What can you do in a park when everything is covered in ice and snow? The short answer is: have fun! Build a snowman, go tobogganing on the hills of Kaivopuisto or try ice skating at the ice rink Brahenkenttä! And if you still miss the summery vibes, escape to the Winter Garden or Kaisaniemi Botanical Garden.
Photo: Jussi Hellsten/Helsinki Partners
The Rhododendron Park, known in Finnish as Alppiruusupuisto or by nickname Rodopuisto, is located in the Haaga district. This park is a hidden gem in Helsinki! The area is especially stunning in late spring and early summer when the rhododendrons and azaleas are in full bloom. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and photography.
Tip! There’s a direct bus connection to this park from the main railway station, the ride takes approx. 30 minutes. If you are planning to use public transportation, check the Helsinki Card! This city card not only gives you access to unlimited public transportation but also serves as your entrance ticket to sightseeing tours and the most interesting museums and sights in Helsinki.
Photo: Jussi Hellsten/Helsinki Partners
Cherry Park, in Finnish known as Kirsikkapuisto, is located in the Roihuvuori district (half-an hour metro ride from the city center). This park is famous for its cherry blossom trees, which create a breathtaking display of pink flowers in the spring. It’s a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the beauty of nature. An annual Hanami event is organized in the park to celebrate the beauty of the cherry trees.
Tip! If you would like to admire the beauty of the cherry blossoms but don’t have the time or opportunity to go to Roihuvuori, there are some beautiful cherry trees along the route of the Hop On-Hop Off tour! Check especially the area of the Opera house (closest bus stop 16/Olympic stadium) or the Tokoinranta area between stops 18 and 19.
The Helsinki Botanic Garden, also known as Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden, is a haven for plant lovers. With a vast collection of plants from around the world, this garden offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t miss the beautiful glasshouses, which house exotic plants and flowers.
Photo: Beatrice Bucht/Helsinki Partners
The Winter Garden in Helsinki, established in 1893, is a delightful plant oasis located north of Töölönlahti Bay, between Hop On-Hop Off stops 16 and 17. This historic greenhouse features over 200 different plant species spread across three rooms. Visitors can even enjoy a variety of seasonal blooms around the Christmas and Easter time.
Parks are often the perfect places to learn about history or enjoy culture. Many parks in Helsinki are famous for their cultural events.
Esplanade Park, often referred to as “Espa” by locals, is a beautiful park located in the heart of Helsinki. This green oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying live performances at the Espa Stage. The park is lined with charming cafes and shops, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals. Oh the stories the statues in this park could tell!
During the holiday season around Christmas and New Year, Esplanade Park is the most atmospheric place with all the seasonal light decorations!
Tip! In the winter season from October to April, you’ll find here also the departure point of the daily Panorama Sightseeing Tour. The departure point is located at Fabianinkatu street, right next to restaurant Kappeli.
The Sibelius Monument, located in Sibelius Park, is one of Helsinki’s most iconic landmarks. Dedicated to the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, this striking sculpture is made up of over 600 steel pipes. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Finnish culture and history.
Tip! You can visit the park easily on the Hop On-Hop Off tour. The Sibelius Park is also a part of the Panorama Sightseeing Tour route – whether the tour makes a stop here depends on the tour day.
Photo: Jussi Hellsten/Helsinki Partners
Kaivopuisto Park, often referred to fondly as “Kaivari,” is one of Helsinki’s oldest and most renowned parks. Located by the Baltic Sea, it offers expansive green lawns, rocky cliffs, and scenic sea views. The park is a popular spot for picnics, outdoor activities, and even winter sledding.
The park features the historic Ursa Observatory, where public shows are scheduled at specific times to allow visitors to observe celestial phenomena. Along the Kaivopuisto shore there are also several charming cafes and restaurants to enjoy a lunch or afternoon coffee with a seaview.
Kaivopuisto is especially lively during the Vappu (May Day) celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors. The park also hosts concerts and events.
Kaisaniemi Park is one of the oldest and most central parks in Helsinki. Adjacent to the Helsinki Botanic Garden and the main railway station, this park offers a mix of open lawns, wooded areas, and scenic views. It’s a great place to relax or attend one of the many events held here especially in the summer season. The park is currently under construction in 2024, and we are excited to see how our common living room turns out once it’s available to the public again.
Did you know that over 20% of Helsinki is covered in forest? A forest is a place where you can relax and let your soul rest. On hot summer days, take a forest escape and enjoy the cool shade the trees offer.
Central Park in Helsinki is a vast green space that stretches all the way from the city center to the northern suburbs. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and bird-watching. The park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, meadows, and lakes, make it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Don’t be surprised if you encounter here horses with their riders or even some wild life such as hares, foxes, deer and countless of bird species from tiny sparows to beautiful hawks and even eagle-owls.
Photo: Aleksi Poutanen/Helsinki Partners
While visiting Seurasaari Island and the open-air museum, you can also enjoy the forest that surrounds the museum buildings. There is also a beach on the island. By the way, the island is known for its cheeky and not-too-timid squirrels!
Tip! Seurasaari Open Air Museum and the Tamminiemi museum right next to it are both included in the Helsinki Card!
Parks in any city are best enjoyed with friends and loved ones! If you are looking for more adventure and activity filled park options, check out these suggestions!
Photo: Stromma Finland
Linnanmäki is not just an amusement park; it’s also home to beautiful gardens and green spaces. While the thrilling rides and attractions are the main draw, the park’s landscaped areas provide a relaxing and fun environment for visitors. It’s a great place for families to enjoy a day out! The entrance is free of charge, so the atmosphere can be enjoyed even if you rather let others enjoy the rides.
Photo: Vesa Laitinen/Helsinki Partners
The Töölönlahti Park area starts right behind the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. The Helsinki Music Center and Finlandia Hall with their concerts and cultural events and the stunning wooden central library Oodi are there to serve those hungry for culture.
In the park area, there are several playgrounds for children with huge jungle gyms, swings and water play elements. Don’t forget to check outdoor musical instruments in front of the Music center – can you solve their secrets?
Helsinki’s parks and botanical gardens offer a diverse range of experiences, from tranquil retreats to adventurous outings. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Esplanadi or discovering the hidden beauty of Rhododendron Park, you’re sure to find a spot that resonates with you in this beautiful city – all year round. See the map below to find all the gems mentioned above!
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