Gay Guide • Helsinki | What to See, Where to Stay, Best Gay Bars and Restaurants | LGBT Guide
- World Mappers
- 8 hours ago
- 12 min read
GAY HELSINKI
Discover this City with our Quick and Practical Guide to Visit the Best Attractions, Savor Typical Dishes and Have Fun in the Best Gay Bars. All this through the Rainbow Eyes of the World Mappers
What to See, Best Places to Sleep, Where to Eat and to Have Fun in HELSINKI?
Find it out with the World Mappers !
LGBT HELSINKI
Helsinki is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in Europe. The Finnish capital promotes LGBTQ+ equality with advanced laws and an inclusive society. Helsinki Pride, held every June, is the largest community event of the year, attracting thousands of participants. The city offers numerous queer-friendly venues, bars, and clubs, as well as cultural spaces that celebrate diversity. Organizations like Seta work for LGBTQ+ rights. It is also recognized for its progressive approach to education and healthcare for LGBTQ+ people, making it a welcoming and safe destination.
WHAT TO SEE in HELSINKI?
10 THINGS TO SEE in HELSINKI
Helsinki Cathedral
Located in Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral is an iconic Lutheran church with its distinctive white color and elegant neoclassical columns. Built in the 19th century, it dominates the city skyline. The interior is simple yet captivating, with a large central dome. It is one of the city's most photographed landmarks and a historical and cultural landmark.
Oodi – Helsinki Central Library
Oodi is one of the world's most innovative libraries, a true architectural masterpiece inaugurated in 2018. More than a library, it is a cultural center with reading spaces, event rooms, relaxation areas, and even technology labs with 3D printers. Its modern design, glass walls, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect place to immerse yourself in Finnish culture.
Temppeliaukio Church
Known as the "Church in the Rock," Temppeliaukio is carved directly into the natural stone, giving it extraordinary acoustics and a unique appearance. Built in the 1960s, it features minimalist architecture with a large copper dome that lets in natural light. It is a place of worship and one of Helsinki's most visited attractions, also perfect for live concerts.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art
Kiasma is Finland's leading contemporary art museum, showcasing works by Finnish and international artists. Its futuristic building, designed by architect Steven Holl, is a masterpiece of modern design. Exhibitions change frequently and offer an ever-changing art experience. It is a must-see for lovers of experimental and innovative art.
Amos Rex
Amos Rex is another contemporary art museum in the heart of Helsinki, renowned for its unique architecture. The undulating domes emerging from the underground plaza have become an icon of the city, while inside, innovative exhibitions combine art, technology, and new forms of expression.
Suomenlinna
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna is a fortress built in the 18th century on an archipelago of six islands. Easily accessible by ferry, it offers breathtaking views, museums, and historic tunnels. Once a military outpost, today it is a perfect place for walks, picnics, and exploring Finnish history. In winter, it exudes a charming atmosphere amidst the snow and ice.
Kauppatori Market
Overlooking the harbor, Kauppatori Market is the perfect place to discover Finnish cuisine. Here, you can sample local specialties such as smoked salmon, marinated herring, and the famous karjalanpiirakka (rice-filled pastry). It's also a great place to shop for souvenirs, Lappish handicrafts, and woolen clothing. In winter, the market transforms into a magical Christmas fair.
Esplanadi Park
Esplanadi Park is a green oasis in the heart of Helsinki, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Surrounded by elegant buildings, restaurants, and boutiques, it hosts outdoor events and performances during the summer. It's a popular destination for locals and tourists, especially in the summer, when the café terraces fill up.
Uspenskin Katedraali
The Helsinki Cathedral of the Dormition, also known as Uspenski, is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. Built of red brick and topped with golden domes, it dominates the city from the Katajanokka district and is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Finnish capital.
National Museum of Finland
This museum traces the history of Finland from prehistoric times to the present day. It houses archaeological finds, traditional artifacts, and interactive exhibits. The magnificent neo-medieval building is an attraction in itself. A journey through Finnish culture and identity, it's perfect for those who want to delve deeper into the country's history in an engaging way.
EVENT NOT TO BE MISSED:
HELSINKI DESIGN WEEK - our adventure
in Commercial Collaboration with MyHelsinki
Every September, Helsinki transforms into the capital of Nordic design thanks to the Helsinki Design Week, the largest design festival in the Nordic countries. Exhibitions, urban installations, meetings and workshops enliven the city, creating dialogue between architecture, fashion, gastronomy and sustainable innovation. It is in this setting that our journey begins, a weekend discovering a vibrant, authentic Helsinki deeply connected to its creative culture.
As soon as we land at Helsinki Airport, the fresh northern air welcomes us like an invitation to slow down. A driver is waiting to take us to the Solo Sokos Hotel Pier ****, an architectural gem overlooking the sea, in the Katajanokanranta district. Here luxury meets sustainability: natural wood, local materials and a rooftop terrace offering 360-degree views of the archipelago. From the Harbore restaurant, the scent of modern Finnish cuisine mingles with the salty air of the harbor. It is the perfect place to begin our journey.
The following morning, we take a stroll through the city for some souvenir photos, then have lunch at Rue Madame, a restaurant overlooking Esplanade Park. Rue Madame is not just refined cuisine, but also part of the Relove project, the world’s first premium second-hand concept store in an airport. Even at the table, the idea of giving new life to things takes shape.
In the afternoon we reach the Suomitalo, the main venue of the Helsinki Design Week. This imposing red granite building from 1911, designed by architects Armas Lindgren and Onni Tarjanne, hosts exhibitions, talks and workshops exploring the theme of happiness through design. Walking among installations and visionary projects, we sense how Helsinki experiences creativity as an integral part of everyday life.
We meet our guide for a food tour that reveals the gastronomic soul of the city. From coffee and pastries in a local bakery, to the stalls of the lively Hakaniemi Market Hall, and finally to a lunch where tradition and sustainability meet, every taste tells the story of an authentic Finland. Here, the extreme seasons, agricultural ingenuity and love for nature become essential ingredients.
The following day is dedicated to the symbol of Helsinki: the Finlandia Hall, a masterpiece by Alvar Aalto. There we visit the permanent exhibition and enjoy lunch at the Finlandia Café & Wine, before getting lost among the ateliers and boutiques of the Design District. Walking through these streets is like leafing through a living book of Nordic aesthetics, made of clean lines, craftsmanship and sustainability.
In the evening, a long-awaited moment: the Sauna at the Allas Pool. Five saunas and pools suspended between sea and city, just steps from the central market. The experience of löyly – the steam that rises from water poured over hot stones – is not just relaxation, but a collective ritual that speaks of history and identity.
Between design looking toward the future, age-old traditions like the sauna, and a cuisine that combines innovation and nature, it leaves us with a simple but powerful desire: to return.
The day ends with dinner at Toppa, a restaurant housed in the historic Sugar Cube building. Among vintage Artek furnishings and skyline views, contemporary cuisine expresses the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity.
The last morning is dedicated to art: from Amos Rex to Kiasma, from the Ateneum to the Design Museum, Helsinki’s museums tell the happy soul of the city.
Before departure, one last lunch at the legendary Kappeli, an institution since 1867. In the glass veranda overlooking Esplanade Park, traditional dishes are savored in a timeless atmosphere.
Helsinki isn't just a city: it's a multisensory experience. From forward-looking design to age-old traditions like the sauna, and a cuisine that blends innovation and nature, it leaves us with a simple yet powerful desire: to return.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Visiting this city at its best depends essentially on how long you have to fully enjoy it. Here is a solution based on the number of days available to you:
Day 1 - Helsinki Completa - Google Maps
Extra - Suomenlinna (by Ferry) - Google Maps
(By opening the Maps with Google, you can easily follow our path)
5 BEST EXCURSIONS fromHELSINKI
We advise you to book the best excursions here: Viator - Musement - Get Your Guide
Suomenlinna
Porvoo
Parco nazionale di Nuuksio
Villaggio Fiskars
Vallisaari e Kuninkaansaari
Click'n'Go - Click on Hotels, Restaurants, Bars & Clubs
to find them on the Map or visit their Website
WHERE TO SLEEP in HELSINKI?
10 BEST GAY FRIENDLY HOTELS in HELSINKI
Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4 **** ® Tested by World Mappers
WHERE TO EAT in HELSINKI?
10 BEST RESTAURANTS in HELSINKI Quality / Price
€€€ - Ravintola Skörd ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Rue Madame Brasserie ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Toppa Restaurant & Bar ® Tested by World Mappers
€€€ - Restaurant Natura
€€€ - Ravintola Nokka
€€€ - Restaurant Savotta
€€€ - Restaurant Kappeli ® Tested by World Mappers
€€ - Ravintola KuuKuu
GAY NIGHTLIFE in HELSINKI
5 BEST GAY PLACES, BARS & CLUBS in HELSINKI
Street Pride Bar (Gay Bar)
Pub Fairytale (Gay Bar)
Hercules Gay Nightclub (Gay Club)
DTM (Gay Club)
Sauna Con Hombres (Gay Sauna)
TRAVEL TIPS about HELSINKI by World Mappers
If you plan to visit many attractions, the Helsinki Card offers unlimited public transportation and free or discounted entry to various museums and tours. It also includes a ferry trip to Suomenlinna. Available for 24, 48 or 72 hours, it helps you explore the city without worrying about single tickets while saving on entrances and transportation.
Instead of taking the classic tourist buses, use tram lines 2 and 3, which pass through the main neighborhoods and attractions of Helsinki with a regular public transport ticket. Tram 2 passes by Senate Square and Esplanadi Park, while tram 3 takes you near Kallio, an alternative district with hipster bars and cafés.
Take the opportunity to visit Helsinki during the Helsinki Design Week, the largest design festival in the Nordic countries, held every year in September in the Finnish capital. Born in 2005, the event brings together professionals, companies, institutions and enthusiasts, transforming the city into a creative stage that explores design in all its forms: from architecture to product design, from fashion to digital services. The festival stands out for its multidisciplinary approach and its ability to engage both the specialized public and citizens, thanks to a rich program that includes exhibitions, conferences, workshops, urban installations and open events. Many spaces normally closed to the public, such as architecture studios and ateliers, open their doors during the event, fostering dialogue between creatives and visitors. Helsinki Design Week is not just an aesthetic showcase, but a laboratory of ideas addressing current themes such as sustainability, social innovation and new technologies, strengthening Helsinki’s image as a UNESCO “City of Design.” The lively and inclusive atmosphere makes the event a unique opportunity to discover the Nordic creative scene and reflect on the role of design in improving the quality of everyday life.
Immersed in the heart of Helsinki, the Sauna Experience at Allas Pool is much more than just a simple moment of relaxation: it is a true journey into Finnish tradition. Between heated pools and seawater, with as many as five saunas available, you can experience the authentic ritual of löyly, the steam that releases vitality and connection. The unique location, overlooking the sea and just steps from the lively Market Square, makes the experience even more special.
For an authentic gastronomic experience, explore the Hakaniemi Market Hall or the Vanha Kauppahalli near the harbor. Here you can try specialties such as smoked salmon, salmon soup (lohikeitto), rye bread (ruisleipä) and even reindeer meat. Prices are more affordable than in restaurants, and the quality is excellent.
Helsinki has an alternative soul, especially in the districts of Kallio and Teurastamo. Kallio is famous for its bohemian atmosphere, with affordable bars, independent bookstores and live concerts. Teurastamo, a former slaughterhouse turned cultural hub, hosts events, street food and vintage markets. For a unique artistic experience, explore the Design District, full of galleries and creative boutiques.
If you don’t fear the cold, visiting Helsinki in winter offers unique experiences: snowy streets, the frozen sea and the chance to see the Northern Lights (especially in the surroundings). Try cross-country skiing in city parks or walk on the frozen surfaces of the Baltic Sea. Moreover, the Christmas season offers enchanting markets and lights that make the city even more fascinating.
In summer, Helsinki enjoys the White Nights, with the sun setting after midnight. Take advantage of this to explore the city when it’s less crowded. You can stroll along the coast, visit Kaivopuisto park, have a drink in an outdoor bar or even enjoy a sauna with a sea view late into the night. The atmosphere is magical and surreal.
Few people know that beneath Helsinki lies a network of underground tunnels and bunkers, built for protection during the Cold War. Some are still used as nuclear shelters, while others host cultural events or sports facilities. The most famous is the Itäkeskus Swimming Hall, a unique underground pool. Some bunkers can be visited with specialized tours.
Don’t miss the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, an island open-air museum where you can explore Finnish rural life through historic buildings from all over the country. Walking among woods and small bridges, you can discover traditional houses, mills and wooden churches. It is also an ideal place for hikes and picnics, especially in summer, when nature is lush and the sun shines until late in the evening.
You’ll see them everywhere in Helsinki: the Moomins. Born from the imagination of Finnish artist Tove Jansson, they have become a true cultural symbol of Finland. These funny white, round creatures, reminiscent of small hippos, live in Moominvalley and through their stories convey universal values such as friendship, curiosity and respect for nature. Loved by generations of readers and viewers around the world, the Moomins are today the protagonists of books, comics, cartoons, exhibitions and even theme parks, making Helsinki and Finland an unmissable destination for their fans.
Looking for adrenaline? Head to Linnanmäki, the oldest amusement park in Finland, famous for its historic wooden roller coaster. In addition to attractions for all ages, it offers shows, games and an incredible panoramic view of the city. Entrance to the park is free, while rides are paid. It’s a perfect destination for families and for those seeking a bit of thrill.
The Finlandia Talo (Finlandia Hall) is one of the architectural masterpieces of Alvar Aalto and an icon of Finnish modernism. Located on the shores of Töölönlahti Bay, its elegant white marble façade and sinuous lines reflect the unique vision of the famous architect. In addition to being a congress and cultural center, it hosts concerts, exhibitions and events that enliven the capital’s life. Visiting the Finlandia Talo means not only admiring an extraordinary building, but also immersing yourself in the innovative and creative spirit of Helsinki.
INSTAGRAMMABLE KATOWICE
Instagrammable Places to See in Katowice
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"SECRET HELSINKI"
Unusual and Particular Places to See in Helsinki
Outside the classic places to visit of the city, there is a "Secret Helsinki" that has simply bewitched us. Here are the 5 Things and Places to See in Secret Helsinki (and Surroundings):
Bad Bad Boy - Brussels' Manneken Pis has been the symbol of urinating statues for centuries, but Helsinki has introduced an intriguing alternative: Bad Bad Boy. Unlike the typical mischievous child, he is an embarrassed adult, 8.5 meters tall, with a surprised expression and flushed cheeks. Unveiled in 2014 at the East Harbour for Tommi Toija's Mutatis Mutandis exhibition, he originally stood near the ferry terminals. In 2016, he was moved to the West Harbour, next to the Helsinki Computer and Game Console Museum. From some angles, he appears to be watering a flowerbed, but no: he's simply pissing on the sidewalk.
Oma maa mansikka ("My Land Is a Strawberry") – a steel sculpture located outside the Finnish Parliament Building, commissioned in 2005. Created by artist Jukka Lehtinen, it depicts a plantation of giant strawberries, a symbol of Finnish pride. The name, taken from a popular expression, reflects a love for the land. Placed above a tub of wild strawberries, the 3.5-meter-tall sculpture, with its 100-kg strawberries, pays homage to agricultural tradition and the power of nature.
Sibelius Monument - Located in Helsinki's Sibelius Park, it is an imposing work of art dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Created by artist Eila Hiltunen in 1967, the monument is composed of over 600 corrugated steel tubes, reminiscent of an organ and symbolizing Sibelius's music. A stylized bust of the composer stands next to it. The work is an icon of the city, appreciated for its abstract design and the sound effect produced by the wind blowing through the tubes.
Lyhdynkantajat ("Lantern Bearers") is a statue in Helsinki, created by artist Kustaa Saksi in 2011. The sculpture depicts a pair of stylized figures carrying lanterns, symbolizing light and guidance in darkness. Located in the Kallio neighborhood, the work is a modern interpretation of the concept of hope and enlightenment. The almost ethereal figures were enthusiastically welcomed, becoming a symbol of welcome and community in the vibrant Helsinki area.
Viisas Hiiri ("Wise Mouse") is a statue in Helsinki depicting a standing mouse with a thoughtful expression. Unveiled in 2007, the work was created by sculptor Timo Rantala. The statue, located in Kallio Park, is often interpreted as a symbol of intelligence and curiosity. With its simple design and friendly character, it quickly gained popularity among visitors and residents of Helsinki, becoming a curious and charming landmark of the city.
What to See near Helsinki ?
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