HOT FOR HELSINKI
A guide for a quick stay in Finland’s capital city.
BY DAVID PAGNOTTA,
SPRING 2019, THE FOURTH PERIOD
For the second-consecutive season, the NHL returned to Europe for its NHL Global Series contests, this time adding a trip to Helsinki, Finland featuring two games between the Winnipeg Jets and Florida Panthers.
As Finland-born stars Patrik Laine and Aleksander Barkov stole the spotlight, fans from all parts of Europe stormed Hartwall Arena, selling out the joint both nights and getting a first-hand taste of NHL action.
I’ve been fortunate to cover multiple games overseas, but this was my first trip to Helsinki and it certainly did not disappoint. Though a small ‘big city,’ there was plenty of explore outside of hockey. And while I missed out on a couple of local dishes featuring elk and pike, my stomach was more than happy with the choices I did make – resulting in a few extra hours at the gym upon my return home.
Lux Helsinki, an annual light art event, illuminates The Senate Square.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Haven
www.hotelhaven.fi | +358 9 681930
Unioninkatu 17, 00130 Helsinki, Finland
Located steps from the city’s market square and a few blocks from the downtown core, Hotel Haven offers excellent accommodations, dining options and one of my favourite bars in the city, Bar Haven.
DINING OPTIONS
Kappeli
www.kappeli.fi | +358 10 7663880
Eteläesplanadi 1, 00130 Helsinki, Finland
A historic spot to visit, Kappeli’s modern vibe compliments its rich traditional look and menu, and its location offers a quick walk from almost any spot downtown.
Goodwin, The Steak House
www.steak.fi | +358 50 4198000
Eteläranta 14, 00130 Helsinki, Finland
If you’re looking to chow down on a great steak while visiting Helsinki, you’ve got to make a reservation at Goodwin – and make sure you start off with their traditional salmon soup.
MUST VISIT
Allas Sea Pool
www.allasseapool.fi | +358 40 565 6582
Katajanokanlaituri 2a, 00160 Helsinki, Finland
You can’t visit Finland without checking out one of their top pool and sauna locations – yes, you can take a dip in the heart of winter. Located right by the Baltic Sea, the views of the city are excellent, and the experience will be unforgettable.
Museums & Art
For the art and museum buffs out there, Helsinki has plenty to offer ranging from the National Museum of Finland to the Kiasma Art Museum for modern art.
Market Square
A long-time local tradition, experience the local market as vendors set up shop and offer great local souvenirs and fresh Finnish food.
Take a Cruise
www.royalline.fi | +358 20 7118333
Eteläesplanadi, 00130 Helsinki, Finland
Jump on one of the boat sightseeing options available to you and explore Helsinki from the waters. Depending on the time of year, you might be lucky enough to spot one of the seals swimming around (for the record, I did).
NIGHTLIFE
Club Capital
www.clubcapital.fi
If you’re looking to experience a local club setting, Club Capital is for you. It’s a large space with great music, plenty of table options and a big dance floor.
Milliklubi
www.milliklubi.fi
A great spot for tourists to check out, Milliklubi offers multiple rooms with different music and some casino options.
