The air is fresh and the nature is slowly turning in to a beautiful pallet of orange and yellow. Weekends are still best spent outside, and we therefore can truly recommend fall bike outings. We also believe that fall is a great time for new experiences, and that’s why we’re going to share our favorite hidden gems in Helsinki. Hop on your bike and get out exploring!
P.s. If you’re unsure about how to get around in the city by bike, you should check out this map!
Rikhardinkatu Library
Rikhardinkatu 3
A library is a great place to get cozy at on a fall day. We especially like the one on Rikhardinkatu, the oldest one in all of Scandinavia. You can leave your bike in the convenient bike parking right outside the library, and then find a great corner spot and sit down to explore the many books and magazines the library has to offer.
Tip: The library organizes a lot of fun events, like book club meetings and fairytale readings for children. Check out their event calendar here.
Kotiharjun Sauna
Harjutorinkatu 1
If you’re feeling a bit chilly in the fall breeze, you should definitely visit one of the many great saunas in Helsinki. One of our favorites is Kotiharjun Sauna, located in Kallio. An old wood-heated sauna in the middle of the city – who can say no to that? Spontaneous walk-ins are also fine, as you can rent a towel here.
Tip: Buy a drink and enjoy it in the cool air outside of the sauna, trust us, it might feel weird, but also very liberating to sit outside half-naked in the middle of the city!
Riviera Movie theater
Harjukatu 2
Close to Kotiharjun Sauna you’ll find the Riviera movie theater – in our humble opinion the coolest movie theater in town. Why do we love this place so much? Well naturally because of the small bar located in the back of the theater, where you can buy refreshments and snacks during the movie, making the experience perfect! In the selection of movies you’ll find blockbusters, random oldies and even a bit peculiar movies, so there’s certainly something for everyone.
Tip: This place is really popular, so you should pre-book your tickets!
Yrjönkatu Swimming hall
Yrjönkatu 21 B
Even though the Baltic Sea might still look welcoming, the water is already freezing cold. That’s why we recommend heading for a dip to the swimming hall on Yrjönkatu instead. It’s worth a visit just for the beautiful architecture. To avoid a chock at entrance, remember that it’s a nude swimming hall (even though you are allowed to wear your bathing suit if you’re feeling shy). It’s also open on separate days for men and women.
Tip: Book a private sauna or a relaxing room on the top floor, and enjoy some sparkling and some snacks from Café Yrjö.
Winter garden
Hammarskjöldintie 1
If you’re craving a quick change of scenery, we can truly recommend a visit to the Winter Garden – a wonderful and relaxing oasis of exotic plants. Here you can stroll around, enjoy the tropical air, and dream yourself away to a warmer place.
Tip: Bring your own snacks (yes, it’s allowed), and sit down and enjoy them in a quiet spot.
