Discover the best fall attractions in the Helsinki region!

Looking for something to do in the fall? Helsinki and its neighboring areas are full of both stunning nature attractions and interesting indoor activities that you can easily reach by public transport. The easiest way to purchase a ticket is to use the HSL app. The app also gives you access to the Journey Planner that helps you find the best route to your destination.

Magnificent nature attractions

Nuuksio National Park in Espoo is the number one hiking destination in the Helsinki region. However, you can also experience the autumn foliage (known as “ruska” in Finnish) in Helsinki by visiting the Central Park or Töölö Bay.

Many people like to visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress during the summer, but the unique island is a beautiful destination in the fall as well. If you are a keen nature enthusiast, then travel to the eastern parts of Helsinki by metro and explore the nature trails of Kallahdenniemi and the outdoor recreational areas of Uutela and Vuosaarenhuippu.

The Nature House Villa Elfvik in Espoo is also a memorable place to visit. There are various nature trails that start in front of the house. Some of the trails have information boards featuring nature-related trivia and information for the whole family.

You don’t need a car of your own to travel to these destinations, for they can be easily reached by public transport.

For families with children

There are many interesting activities for children in the Helsinki metropolitan area. For example, you can take part in the Carnival of Light at the Linnanmäki amusement park between 11 and 20 October. Moreover, the Children's Town in the Helsinki City Museum is a definite favorite among families.

Another interesting place to visit is the permanent Mauri Kunnas exhibition at the Exhibition Centre WeeGee in Espoo. Near WeeGee, you’ll also find Leikki, the Museum of Play. Those yearning for a little more action can visit the indoor activity park SuperPark in Vantaa or the Rush Trampoline Park in Pitäjänmäki. And let’s not forget that the public transport journey itself to these destinations can also be a unique experience for many children.

For sports lovers

The Helsinki region offers a variety of different sports activities all year round. For instance, you can play golf and padel or visit an adventure park in Paloheinä. Paloheinä is also famous for its fitness stairs that will certainly make you break a sweat.

The West Metro takes you to Espoonlahti Sports Park, where you can play street basketball and floorball as well as try something a bit more exotic, such as pumptrack. You can also find fitness stairs in Kivikko, Malminkartano and Keinukallio.

Educational and fun

Interested in learning something new while having fun? Science Centre Heureka is an educational and entertaining exhibition center for people of all ages. At Haltiala farm, you get to meet farm animals in a traditional Finnish countryside.

For more educational experiences, visit the Museum of Technology in Vanhankaupunginkoski in Helsinki or the Sipoo School Museum. Furthermore, the Finnish Aviation Museum is definitely worth visiting. Located near the Helsinki–Vantaa Airport in Vantaa, the museum can be easily reached by public transport.

The heat is on

We could all use a little of bit of warmth and luxury to get through the dark and cold autumn nights. What better way to spend a crisp autumn day than with a visit to a spa or sauna. Flamingo Spa in Vantaa offers a comprehensive spa experience for both adults and children.

If you are looking for a luxurious spa treatment, then head over to Hotel Maria, St. George or Hotel Kämp in downtown Helsinki. Those interested in the Finnish sauna experience can visit the marine spa Allas Sea Pool or Löyly, the famous public sauna and restaurant complex.

Travel back in time

Those interested in history and hiking can travel to Mustavuori in Vuosaari. The area is famous for its First World War era fortification with caves, trenches and cannons. A bus will take you right next to the vast forest area.

You can also find several interesting historical attractions outside of Helsinki. Despite its name, Helsingin pitäjän kirkonkylä (Helsinki Parish Village) is located in Vantaa. The village, where time seems to have stopped, is a must-see attraction for all history buffs. If you are interested in culinary experiences, visit restaurant Krapihovi in Tuusula. The restaurant offers Finnish delicacies in an idyllic villa-milieu.

Immerse yourself in culture

Those looking for cultural experiences can for instance visit the Theatre Museum in Kaapelitehdas or the Aalto House, home of the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, in Munkkiniemi. Or perhaps you are looking for something to do during a rainy day? In that case, go see a film in one of the old, atmospheric Riviera movie theaters in Punavuori or Kallio in Helsinki.

There is also an abundance of interesting cultural experiences outside of Helsinki that you can reach by public transport. For instance, you can visit the Halosenniemi museum, home of the national romantic painter Pekka Halonen, which is situated on the shores of Lake Tuusula. Moreover, in Kerava, you’ll find the Ihmemaa X exhibition by Purkutaide. The exhibition features artwork from as many as 240 artists.

Travel to fall activities by public transport

Many of the various sights and events in the Helsinki region can be easily reached by public transport. Before travelling, download the free HSL app that will help you plan your trip. In the app, you can buy tickets and use the Journey Planner to find routes and timetables.

See instructions on how to buy tickets