Helsinki Layover

If you’re stuck on a layover at the Helsinki, Finland (HEL) Vantaa airport, you’re in good shape as far as airports are concerned. After all, there’s tons to do, and the airport was recently named one of the Top 10 Airports In The World.

With a meditation room to provide a “calm ambiance” for passengers, two banks and wireless Internet, there’s plenty to do for those with time on their hands. There’s also three baby care, change rooms and baby playrooms, a barber, plenty of restaurants and shopping galore. For a map of all the services at the airport, click here.

If you’re looking to leave the airport and explore, you can drop off your bags at airport lockers. Lockers are located at the Airpro Travel Services at arrivals 2B and cost EUR 4 for every 24 hours, and can be stored for up to 8 days. If you’re trying to decide on leaving the airport, click here for useful tips.

The airport is located 3 miles from Vantaa city center and 10 miles north of Helsinki city center which makes exploring the nearby areas very accessible for those stuck on a long layover. Journey by taxi to Helsinki takes about a half hour and costs EURO 35-40, and you can find the taxis outside of arrivals. You can also travel by bus – click here for more info.

LayoverGuide’s Suggestions Of Things To Do In Helsinki On A Layover:

Kauppatori (Market Square & Market Hall)
The Kauppatori market square is a great destination, near the beach, where you can pick up some souvenirs, check out the Stone of the Empress monument and mermaid statue, and stretch your legs with a nice stroll. At the edge of the harbor you can find ferries (including Nordic Jet Line) which travel to the Estonian capital of Tallinn. The market is located at the east end of Esplanadi Boulevard.

Tuomiokirkko Lutheran Cathedral
200 years old, the Tuomiokirkko Cathedral, with its green domes, is probably the best known landmark in Helsinki. Along with artwork, a large organ and cafe, visit the rooftop where you’ll find some impressive statues of Jesus and his Apostles. There’s a long flight of stairs and at the top you’ll see a great view of the city.

Suomenlinna Island & Fortress
For those on a long layover, you can hop on a ferry from the Market Square and travel out to Suomenlinna Island and Fortress. It is a 15-minute trip (ferries run 2-3 per hour). Walking tours are offered in the summer and there’s a visitor center which has more information on the history of the island.

Uspenski Orthodox Church
East of the Market Square, you’ll find the Uspenski Orthodox Church sitting atop a small hill. The church was built in 1868 and has the flavor of the Russian period, with red brick architecture. The church is one of the largest orthodox churches in Europe and has 13 domes.

Have a suggestion for a Helsinki layover? Leave a comment below!

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