Get inspired by Helsinki – the authentic cultural capital of Finland

Today's Helsinki appears as an extremely dynamic, fresh, unique and full of life.

The capital of Finland presents itself also as the cultural capital of the far-away, exotic Nordic country, offering the visitors blooming and vibrant city life – all year round.

So what are the most authentic spots to feel and experience the true spirit and soul of Helsinki?

One of the most visibly booming areas is Kallio to the east from the core centre; it's previous, rather rustic reputation as a working class neighbourhood has slightly been replaced by the creatively bohemian and artistic atmosphere. Nowadays this part of the city is known for its quickly popping up bars, restaurants and cafés, established in a true entrepreneur spirit of the Finns.

For a visitor to try local, innovative food prepared of fresh ingredients we would highly suggest to explore the Food District of Teurastamo between the districts of Kalasatama and Sörnäinen in the Eastern part of Helsinki. Being easily reached within a short metro ride, this area provides also an international vibe especially during summer time, when the famous food trucks inspired by the American street food culture pop up in the area to serve the “Hel-Yeah” delicious, fresh street food!

If you're interested in maritime experiences, Helsinki, once described as a 'Daughter of the Baltic Sea' is a perfect place to take a sightseeing cruise on the Gulf of Helsinki, to gaze at the dozens of picturesque small islands. Besides having a picnic on a warm summer's day on the historical island of Suomenlinna, why not go off the beaten path and discover also the island of Lonna: a previously militarised and demagnetised island which was only last summer opened to the public as a new recreational island attraction.

Beyond all this, Helsinki as a youthful and friendly city is also full of inspiring events throughout the whole year. Even during the winter time Helsinki sure doesn't get its toes frozen! In addition to the LUX Helsinki Light Festival in the beginning of January, until the beginning of February you are also warmly welcomed to enjoy Winter Fun Helsinki, that offers for example the joy of ice skating in the middle of Helsinki Railway Square and well as fun tobogganing on the several hills of the city. Don't expect this to be just for kids, but instead let your inner child run out wild and spread the joy around!

Restaurant Day, an innovative phenomenon of anyone being free to open up a restaurant for a day was originally invented in Helsinki. The idea has spread already all around the world and nowadays takes place four times a year. Come and join the big street food carnival which brings together both the locals and the visitors of the city, no matter from which part of the world you are coming from!

Another example of an intercultural capital is the World Village Festival in May, which invites all the cultures of the world to join together to a big celebration of music, dance and food. And speaking of music, every August Helsinki gets pampered by another locally established music event called Flow Festival, having both international and Finnish artists performing in the dark yet warm nights of late summer. What could be a better way to experience the real soul of the incredibly hip city culture of Helsinki?

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Photos: Flickr/ Creative Commons; Dimitri B., Dennis Jarvis, Timo Noko, Restaurantday