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“Not at all, you can still live.”
“The forest answers the same way you cry out to it.”
Ten years of traveling the world looking for a destination where I could feel completely comfortable as a solo female traveler; Why had it taken me thirty years to land in this attractive Scandinavian city?
Autumn is perhaps one of the best seasons, showcasing the vibrant colors of the leaves as they blend effortlessly with the flamboyant buildings lining the streets: truly beautiful.
Maybe it was the friendly smile of the locals or maybe the respect I felt as a woman, but I can safely say that 35 countries later, Helsinki perhaps the place where I felt most comfortable as a solo female traveler during my travels around the world so far.
Seasonal mix
Fresh air greeted me as I walked from Helsinki Central Station through most of the city. I arrived just in time for the start of the fall season. The nice thing about Finland is the mix of weather conditions and the opportunity to experience all four seasons in one place.
While the winter months are certainly a big draw for visitors looking to experience the beauty of Finland layered in a layer of white, the fall bringing a splash of color to the city and a noticeable buzz around certain events and things to do.
Where to See The Foliage (because there’s plenty to go around!)
- Töölönlahti
- Meilahti and Viikki Arboretum
- Keskuspuisto – Helsinki’s central park
- Eläintarhanlahti and Kaisaniemenlahti
- Niskala Arboretum and Haltiala
Unexpected places to meet people
Navigating to a new destination can be tricky as a solo traveler, but you know what makes it a little easier? Finding something in common with the locals. And if there’s one thing most Finns are passionate about, it’s the city’s vibrant beer scene.
I embark on a mission from my hostel to the eclectic street that is Iso RoobertinkatuI had one destination in mind: Black Door Beer Garden. I was looking for a local venue where I could chat with others who shared my beer-loving proclivities, and for a chance to really talk to locals.
To say I found it here is an understatement. After a week in Helsinki I was back at the neighborhood bar 3-4 more times during my stay. There is nothing more satisfying as a solo traveler than being greeted like an old friend in a new city.
Best beer bars in Helsinki (sampled by me):
- Black door – Local spot with over 20 beers on tap
- Pien- Craft beer shop where you can have a drink or pick up
- Beer Beer- Cozy bar with both Finnish and various other beers
- Villi Wäinö Literally hundreds of beers available
- Bart- A beer and art café with 20 Scandinavian beers on tap
5 star hostel life
At check-in I was asked to take off my shoes and be handed a pair of slippers. When you stay in hostels around the world, you learn to appreciate the little luxuries – and this was certainly one of them!
Located in a commercial building on the bustling street of Kalevankatu, Wharf hostel was the ideal place to stay as a solo traveler. With a cozy atmosphere and family atmosphere, it is within walking distance of everything you want to see in the city, with a few local bars on your doorstep.
The Yard perfectly reflects the Finnish way of life through its sleek interiors, potted plants and open spaces. A large common area and kitchen make it surprisingly easy to meet fellow travelers during the stay, and the rooms are spacious with curtains for privacy.
For more tips on where to stay during the fall, Visit My Helsinki!
Activities to keep you busy and relaxed
Imagine waking up on a crisp, cool morning and all you want to do is relax, detox and enjoy the Finnish way of life. Well, Helsinki has an abundance of activities for all residents and travelers.
With an estimated 3.3 million saunas across the country, the art of detoxification is truly a way of life in Finnish culture, and luckily they are easily accessible to visitors.
Below you will find a list of unique saunas/swimming pools that are often used by locals. There’s also a ‘secret sauna’ in Helsinki that prefers to stay under the radar, so ask a few locals and see if you’re up for the challenge of finding it during your trip!
Unique saunas/swimming pools to visit in Helsinki:
Affordable if you know where to go
Often, Scandinavian countries are known for being slightly more expensive than countries like Eastern Europe or Western Europe; However, affordable finds can be found all over the world, if you know where to look for them.
As a solo traveler, I always base my travels on one key mentality: do what the locals do. To fully immerse yourself in the open arms of a new culture, it’s important to get a little off the beaten path and see where the road leads.
As I meandered through the green-lined streets of Helsinki without Google Maps as a guide, I came across many local markets, thrift stores, cute cafes and out-of-the-way neighborhoods.
- marketplace: Located on the waterfront in the center of the city, the square is full of tents serving all of Finland’s traditional favorites (be sure to try the salmon soup and the vendace)
- Hakaniemi Market Hall: An indoor and outdoor market in Helsinki’s quirky Kalio district. As one of the city’s most authentic markets, it offers two floors of the best finds
- Old Market Hall: Here you will find some of the best food, serving Helsinki since 1889
- Hietalahden Kauppahalli: Vintage indoor dining room
- Cafe Regatta: This log cabin cafe has been home to Taivallahti Bay for over 135 years! A local haunt, it has some of the best views and cinnamon rolls outside of the city
- Keskuspuisto: Did you know that the central forest in Helsinki is a foraging area? Actually, most of the country is! Finland believes in it Jokaisenoikeudet or the rights of everyone. “The law gives anyone living in or visiting Finland the freedom to wander the countryside,” which could be the cheapest meal ever if you can cook everything afterwards!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
