Helsinki's urban environment is an urban destination

Book your urban excursion in the centre of Helsinki and go paddling at the Natura Viva pop-up paddling point in Kaisaniemi. Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is an international and bustling metropolis. Helsinki has something to see and experience to suit all tastes and moods. Everything is within walking distance in the centre of Helsinki, but there is plenty to do all day and plenty to see for several days.

Helsinki's attractions are waiting for you near the city centre

Helsinki's architectural gems await you - all within a short walk from Helsinki's Kaisaniemi Beach, where Natura Viva's pop-up kayaking point will serve all those interested in kayaking and SUP-boarding all summer long.

Nearby is the Senate Square, which is flanked by perhaps Helsinki's most famous architectural gems: the Government Palace designed by C.L. Engel, the main university building and the National Library. In addition, the most famous landmark of Helsinki's empire centre and symbol of the city, Helsinki Cathedral, looks out to sea from the Senate Square. The Sederholm House, the oldest stone building in Helsinki, is also located on the edge of the square. On arriving at the Market Square from Senate Square, architecture lovers will be warmed by the Old Market Hall, completed in 1889. This red-brick building still houses dozens of small shops, cafés and stalls. Grab lunch or breakfast and marvel at the atmosphere of the Old Market Hall, a wonderful mix of new and old, modern and bygone.

Other central architectural gems within walking distance include Uspenski Cathedral in Katajanokka and Temppeliaukio Church in Töölö - this church is partly carved into the rock. The Töölö district is also a destination for a peaceful stroll - you can stroll around these corners unhurriedly and enjoy a rare sense of tranquillity right next to Helsinki's city centre.

Walking to the district adventures

The pop-up kayak rental shop Natura Viva in Kaisaniemenranta is also an easy place to explore Helsinki's inner city. Walking east, you'll first encounter Hakaniemi and Tokoinranta, then the bohemian and artistic districts of Kallio and Alppila, as well as Linnanmäki Amusement Park, which opened in 1950. These corners are bustling with small cafés and cafes, restaurants to suit all tastes, designer and second-hand shops, art galleries and specialty stores. It's worth staying longer to get the feel of Kallio and Alppila.

Heading east from Kaisaniemi, you reach Kruununhaka, with its narrow and atmospheric streets lined with turn-of-the-century Art Nouveau houses. This former Tsarist horse stable is now one of Helsinki's trendiest corners, full of restaurants, cafés and bars. On the east side of Kruununhaka is the beautiful and atmospheric Tervasaari, which is reached by a built-up deck. In "Tervis" you can enjoy the presence of the sea on all sides, sit down for a picnic on the lawn and enjoy a coffee at the stall, for example.

Walking directly south from Kaisaniemenranta, through Kaisaniemi Park, you reach Helsinki's Railway Station and Main Railway Station, the heart of the city. The Helsinki city centre is full of chain stores, shopping centres, boutiques and speciality shops, with something for every taste. Head for the Kampi centre or the Forum along Mannerheimintie, the main street that runs through the city.

From here, continue walking south and you will first come to the famous Stockmann department store and then to Esplanade, which comes to life in the summer city. Helsinki residents enjoy unhurried picnics on the lawns of "Espa" on hot summer days. After the Esplanade, the walk takes you towards Kaartinkaupunki, Eira and Kaivopuisto, with their eye-catching Art Nouveau architecture and charming narrow streets that embody the spirit of Helsinki.

Rent a kayak in the centre of Helsinki

In the summer season 2023, Natura Viva will offer all kayaking lovers a pop-up kayak rental point on Kaisaniemenranta, at the northern edge of Kaisaniemi Park. It's easy to get here by public transport - all roads lead to Kaisaniemi, whether you arrive by HSL bus, metro or tram. And for those arriving by car, there are a few parking spaces on Kaisaniemenranna. However, we recommend public transport - it's environmentally friendly, avoids parking problems and doesn't cause traffic jams.

You can book kayaks and SUP boards with a season pass at Natura Viva's pop-up kayaking point, and Kaisaniemenranta offers many fascinating and interesting kayaking routes. Go on a memorable kayaking trip and book a guided kayaking tour in the centre of Helsinki. We would be happy to tell you more about the great sports and summer activities available in the centre of Helsinki.