72 Hours in Helsinki: Where To Stay, Shop And (Of Course) Sauna In The Finnish Capital 

It’s official: Finland has been crowned the happiest country in the world for the eighth consecutive year by the World Happiness Report. At the gateway to the Arctic, this Nordic country experiences 200 days of winter and two whole months where the sun never rises above the horizon. However, despite this harsh climate, there’s plenty of mood-boosting things to enjoy – and no more so than in its capital, Helsinki.

First up, there’s the country’s favourite pastime of basking in saunas and plunging into the icy Baltic sea (also known as contrast therapy, one of the hottest wellness trends right now) – one of the Finnish secrets to happiness. And beyond sauna life, there’s a thriving art and design scene that often goes unnoticed by the mainstream but is brimming with raw talent and innovation. Whether it’s experiencing the post-cold-plunge endorphin rush or finding your creativity stoked, you’re sure to leave this often-underrated city with an elevated spirit.

Planning to spend a few days in the Nordic capital? Here’s our insider guide to making the most of 72 hours in Helsinki...

Day 1

CHECK IN TO... Grand Hansa, a new hotel in the heart of Helsinki, only a five-minute walk from the Central train station, an Art Deco masterpiece that’s a must-see in itself. Opened in 2024, this stylish hotel combines two historical buildings, one of which was a hub for Helsinki’s high society and cultural elite in the early 20th century.

GET YOUR SAUNA FIX AT... USVA by Terhen. One of the highlights of the Grand Hansa hotel is its new sauna and spa, which preserves Finnish wellness traditions with a modern twist. Bathe like a Finn in the wood or infrared saunas, and cool off in the cold plunge pool or cool mist showers.

BOOK A TABLE AT... Elm, a restaurant on the edge of Kaivopuisto Park with “living room” vibes and a seasonal menu inside a beautifully preserved villa near the Baltic Sea.

GRAB A DRINK AT... Kupoli, Grand Hansa’s hotel’s rooftop cocktail bar inside a historic dome-shaped tower with wraparound terrace. End your first evening taking in 360-degree views of Helsinki while you try its signature drink, a Cherry Negroni.

Day 2

GRAB BREAKFAST AT... The hotel! Grand Hansa’s buffet breakfast is a feast of local specialties, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find better handmade Karelian rice-filled pastries.

GET YOUR CULTURAL FIX AT... Underground art playground Amos Rex – an interactive contemporary art museum that sits under the Lasipalatsi Square in Helsinki’s museum district.

REFUEL AT... Kaffa Roastery, home of the city’s award-winning coffee, and a cosy spot near the city centre to caffeinate with the world’s first AI-generated blend. (Finns are among the world’s biggest coffee consumers, so you’re guaranteed a great cup.)

GET YOUR SAUNA FIX AT... Lonna, the seaside public sauna just a ferry ride away from downtown Helsinki. After a sauna and dip in the sea, grab a bite at the restaurant Lonna, a short walk away, and explore the nearby Suomenlinna, Helsinki’s UNESCO-listed 18th-century sea fortress, which is just seven minutes away by waterbus.

BOOK A TABLE AT... The ROOM: a Michelin-starred splurge that you won’t forget. This intimate 14-seat immersive ‘culinary theatre’ blends the Middle Eastern and Nordic influences of showman chef Kozeen Shiwan.

Day 3

START YOUR DAY... in a corner of the Narinkkatori square at Kamppi Chapel (also known as the Chapel of Silence). It’s a giant wooden avant-garde egg designed by local architects, and the perfect quiet refuge in the city’s busy downtown. No services are offered, just moments of silence. Or, take a peek at the ‘Rock Church’ in the Toolo neighborhood – another unusual chapel carved into rock that’s also a popular spot for concerts, thanks to its excellent acoustics.

GO SHOPPING AT... The Design District, where you’ll find Lokal, a contemporary art gallery and concept store with products from local designers and artisans. In the summer months, Hietalahti Market Square hosts the city’s large outdoor flea market, where you can scope out antiques as well as chic modern finds.

GRAB LUNCH AT... Vegetarian restaurant YesYesYes, zero-waste-focused Nolla, or local favourite Green Hippo, which is also great for plant-based eaters – all are well-located for a pitstop as you shop in the Design District.

GET YOUR FINAL SAUNA FIX AT... Löyly sauna, a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. Inside this striking waterfront wood building in Hernesaari, you’ll find a traditional Finnish smoke sauna, wood-burning sauna and a dock to cool off in the Baltic sea year-round. After you sauna and plunge on repeat, refuel at the sauna’s restaurant with dishes such as salmon soup and reindeer plus a Finnish long drink.  

AT THE AIRPORT... Pop into Relove Second Hand & Café before you head home – it’s the world’s first second-hand concept store at an airport. This is its fourth location in the city, combining high-quality pre-owned clothing and accessories with a café. Perhaps you’ll find a vintage piece of Marimekko to remember your trip by.