Finland - Helsinki

One of our cruise ports of call is Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Helsinki is a place where no guided tour is necessary and walking around is a great way to see the city.

From where our cruise ship docked, we took a bus ride to Temppeliaukio Church, a Lutheran Church in the district of Toolo. It is also known as the “Rock Church” as it’s built into solid rocks, a glorious interpretation of strong faith in one with nature. This awesome and unique piece of architecture was designed by brothers Tuomo and Timo Suomalainen in the late 60’s. Majestic rock wall formed by a withdrawing glacier is set as the back of the altar. Natural light pours in through the glazed dome. Instead of the normal bell found in most churches, Rock Church houses an organ which was built by Veikko Virtanen. Entrance to the church is free. I overheard one of the guides saying that it is also a popular venue for concert.

We later walked down to the Three Blacksmiths Square. The Square was named after the statue donated to the city by the Pro Helsingfors Foundation in 1932. On the southern side is the Stockmann's department store, a 1930s emporium in German style that is almost as big as the Parliament Building. Ladies, another great opportunity for more shopping 

From Three Blacksmiths Square, we walked down to Market Square (known in Finnish as the Kauppatori). Market Square is a colorful and electric spot popular with tourists and Helsinki dwellers alike. Orange stalls between the sea, impressive row of historical buildings and wooden boats with their merchandising displays bouncing between large cruise ships are part of what make Helsinki’s Market Square unique.

Within walking distance from Market Square, is the Esplanade Park which is lined with cafés, restaurants and lively shops, providing a festive atmosphere and great place for people watching. The sitting arrangement is pretty unique to me as in Asia; we sit around the table and not facing the street.

If you are visiting Helsinki in August like I do, bring warm cloths as the wind is quite strong and chilly near the bay. It was a great day for us, exploring Helsinki on foot before returning to our cruise ship for the next port, Stockholm.