About Helsinki Station
Helsinki station functions as a transit hub for the entire city. Connected to all of the Finnish capital's public transportation infrastructure, the station is practically unavoidable for those looking to get around Helsinki. Lucky, then, that it's so easy on the eye. In 2013, the BBC declared it one of the world's most beautiful railway stations.
The very first railway station in Helsinki opened back in 1862. However, as rail travel grew in popularity, the station soon proved too small to keep up with demand. A new station was commissioned, and architect Eliel Saarinen won the contest to design it. The new, and current, Helsinki station opened in 1919. However, Saarinen’s full vision for the station wasn’t realized until 2000, with the addition of a glass roof that had been in his original plans but was never added during his lifetime.
One of the quirks of the station is its presidential lounge. Originally intended for the private use of the Tsar of Russia, it is now reserved for the president of Finland.
Through the years, the station has continued to grow. In the 1960s, an underground shopping complex was added. The Metro station came in 1982. Now, the station is the busiest in the country and is where many visitors get their first sight of Helsinki.
Things to do near Helsinki Station
Thanks to its central location, you'll find plenty to do in the vicinity of Helsinki station. In fact, the moment you step out of the door, you'll be immersed in the vibrant life of the capital.
- Explore Finnish music at the Helsinki music center. Located right next the train station, this hall is home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and the Sibelius Academy. Open in 2011, this state-of-the-art hall is the perfect place to enjoy a concert.
- Take a vintage tram ride to Market Square. These 100-year-old trams are fully preserved and offer a unique way to travel through the city to one of its busiest districts.
- Shop for unique gifts at the Old Market Hall. Built in 1889 as a home for the city's Central Market, this is a great place to sample the local produce and immerse yourself in Finland's cuisine.
- See the long-lasting Russian influence on Finland at Uspenski Cathedral. The largest Orthodox church in Western Europe, the classic Russian-style architecture of this striking building is well worth seeing for yourself.
- Learn more about the history of the country at the National Museum of Finland. Home to a stunning collection of ancient treasure, this institution explains the long history of settlement both in Helsinki and in the country as a whole.
Transit options at Helsinki Station
- A commuter rail service links the station to Helsinki airport. Lines I and P leave approximately every 10 minutes. Bus line 615 also connects the station to the airport.
- As the main station for the country, Helsinki station has rail links to every town in Finland and across the region. You can reach Helsinki station by train from St. Petersburg, Moscow, Stockholm, Oslo, and other European cities.
- Helsinki’s central bus station is a short walk from the train station. Also, the connected Metro station and tramlines make it easy to access all of Helsinki’s public transit networks.
Luggage storage at Helsinki Station
Because Helsinki Station is so central, you'll want to start exploring almost from the moment you arrive. Just stepping out of the doors of the station puts you right in the center of the city with all the attractions it has to offer. Make it easier to get around by dropping off your heavy bags at a Bounce luggage storage location. No matter how many bags you have or how heavy they are, Bounce can help you find a place to store them so you can travel more easily.
Activities and attractions near Helsinki Station
- Wooden houses: Take a stroll through Helsinki’s most bohemian districts and admire the city planning of a bygone era. Back in the early 20th century, the growing city built entire neighborhoods filled with wooden buildings for working-class residents. Now, the striking houses are popular with Helsinki's creative types. Check out the Puu Vallila area to see some great examples of the iconic architecture and enjoy trendy cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. Make sure to leave your heavy bags at a Bounce luggage storage shop near Helsinki station before you go.
- Suomenlinna: Explore a unique fortress at Suomenlinna. Built by Swedish troops in the 19th century, this well-preserved settlement spreads across seven islands and can be reached by a short ferry ride from Helsinki. The fortress appears as though it was just abandoned yesterday, and the natural surroundings only add to the appeal of this unique monument. Drop off your heavy bags at a luggage storage service in Helsinki so you can hop from island to island and enjoy both history and scenery at this striking attraction.
- Linnanmaki: Enjoy an amusement park with an old-school twist at Linnanmaki. This iconic amusement park has been in operation for nearly 70 years. Home to some of the country's biggest and best roller coasters, the park combines modern attractions with the best amusements the 1950s had to offer. Plus, the park donates all profits to a children's charity, so you can feel good about spending your money on rides and games at this classic Helsinki attraction. Large bags are not permitted inside the park, so make sure you drop them off at a Helsinki luggage storage shop before you go.