City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki is located to the north of Estonia and east of Stockholm, Sweden. It blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. It’s located on the shores of the Baltic Sea in the Gulf of Finland, making it a wonderful destination for boaters and travelers. The capital city offers a mix of historic landmarks, cutting-edge design and tranquil island settings.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a must-visit from a private boat slip for rent or marina. Built in the 18th century, this sea fortress spans six islands and offers visitors a glimpse into Finnish military history. Explore museums, walk along scenic trails or enjoy a picnic while enjoying stunning sea views.
Helsinki Cathedral
An iconic symbol of the city, Helsinki Cathedral stands majestically in Senate Square. Its neoclassical architecture, striking white facade and green domes make it one of the most photographed spots in Finland. Visitors can admire its serene interior and climb the steps for panoramic views of the square and private boat dock rentals.
Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
Carved directly into solid rock, Temppeliaukio Church is an active Luthern church and a stunning architectural marvel. The church’s copper dome and raw rock walls create a unique and serene ambiance. With excellent acoustics, it’s a popular venue for concerts.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Step back in time at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. Located on an island, this museum features traditional Finnish buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can learn about rural life in Finland and enjoy the island's serene walking trails.
Korkeasaari Zoo
One of the oldest zoos in the world, Korkeasaari Zoo is located on the 54-acre island of Korkeasaari near Helsinki’s city center. It’s home to more than 150 animal species. Visit Asian lions, yaks, tropical birds, wolverines, otters and more. The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and offers an educational yet entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
Esplanadi Park
Known as "Espa" to locals, this central park is a favorite gathering spot. Esplanadi Park is perfect for leisurely strolls, people-watching or enjoying street performances. The park is surrounded by cafes and shops, making it a great place to unwind before heading back to a private boat slip for rent or a marina.
Allas Sea Pool
Visit the Allas Sea Pool for a unique experience from private boat dock rentals. This urban spa offers heated pools, a seawater pool and saunas with views of the Helsinki harbor and incoming boats. It’s an excellent spot to relax, especially during chilly Finnish evenings.
Helsinki Archipelago
Helsinki is surrounded by an archipelago of more than 300 islands. Take a ferry or sail out from marinas and private boat lift rentals to popular islands like Vallisaari, Lonna, Harakka or Pihlajasaari. These islands offer hiking trails, forests, beaches, wildlife and an escape from the busy city scene. Some of the islands have restaurants and cafes so you can make a full day of it.
