Planning a trip to Helsinki this Christmas? You're in for a treat. From cosy Christmas markets and twinkling lights to Finnish sauna culture and little hidden gems, Helsinki has its own kind of winter magic.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend, spending Christmas in Finland or simply looking for fun things to do in Helsinki in December, we've put together a few of our favourite ways to experience the city during the festive season.
1. Visit the Helsinki Christmas Market
No Christmas trip to Helsinki is complete without a visit to the Helsinki Christmas Market, also known as Tuomaan Markkinat.
Located in the beautiful Senate Square, right next to Helsinki Cathedral, the market is filled with local crafts, handmade gifts, festive treats and traditional Finnish Christmas atmosphere.
Grab a warm cup of glögi (Finnish mulled wine), browse the little wooden stalls and enjoy the lights of the city.
When: November 27 – December 22, 2026
Where: Senate Square, Helsinki
Photo by Pierpaolo Pellegrino on Unsplash
2. Take vintage photobooth pictures at Muikku Photo
Looking for something a little different to do in Helsinki? Come visit us at Muikku Photo!
Located in the heart of City Center, our vintage-inspired photobooth is the perfect little stop during a day of exploring the city.
Step behind the curtain, strike a pose and let the camera do its thing. In just a few moments, you'll have two printed photo strips to take home – a little souvenir from Helsinki that feels much more personal than another fridge magnet.
It's a fun activity for couples, friends, families or even solo travellers. And the best part? No booking is needed.
Price: €8 per session, including two printed photo strips
Where: Muikku Photo, Fredrikinkatu 32, Helsinki
Whether you're looking for a cute date idea in Helsinki, an indoor activity on a cold winter day or simply a fun memory from your trip, we'd love to see you!
Photo by Venla Välimaa / Muikku Photo
3. Walk through Helsinki's Christmas lights
One of the best free things to do in Helsinki during Christmas is simply walking around the city centre.
Aleksanterinkatu, Helsinki's famous Christmas Street, is decorated with festive lights, while the nearby Esplanadi Park offers a lovely setting for an evening stroll.
Take your time, admire the decorated shop windows and stop for a coffee whenever you need to warm up.
It's a simple but lovely way to experience Helsinki during winter.
Photo by mitchell nijman on Unsplash
4. Experience a traditional Finnish sauna
If there's one thing you should experience while visiting Finland, it's sauna.
Sauna is a huge part of Finnish culture, and winter is one of the most atmospheric times to try it. Imagine stepping into a hot sauna after a chilly day in the city – or, if you're feeling brave, taking a quick dip in the cold Baltic Sea.
Helsinki has several public saunas where visitors can enjoy this Finnish tradition. One popular option is Löyly, a seaside sauna in the Hernesaari neighbourhood.
Book your sauna experience in advance, especially during the holiday season.
5. Explore Finnish design and find unique Christmas gifts
Helsinki is known for its design culture, independent shops and creative neighbourhoods.
If you're searching for unique Christmas presents or souvenirs, spend some time exploring the Design District, especially the streets around Punavuori.
You'll discover vintage stores, independent boutiques, local design and plenty of cosy cafés along the way.
6. Warm up with Finnish Christmas treats
After spending time outdoors, there's nothing better than finding a cosy café.
During the Christmas season, look out for traditional Finnish treats like piparkakut (gingerbread cookies), joulutorttu (star-shaped Christmas pastries) and warm glögi.
And don't forget to try a classic Finnish cinnamon bun while you're here.
Helsinki is full of independent cafés where you can escape the cold, slow down and enjoy a little afternoon break.
Photo by Wassim Chouak on Unsplash
See you in Helsinki! <3