Design & Culture

Design District Helsinki

The Design District encompasses over 200 shops, galleries, and studios in the Punavuori and Kaartinkaupunki districts. Here you will find everything that makes Finnish design:

• Marimekko — The legendary Finnish prints. The flagship store on Pohjoisesplanadi is a must.
• Iittala & Arabia — Glass, ceramics, and tableware in timeless Scandinavian design. The Arabia factory area in Arabianranta has an outlet store.
• Artek — Alvar Aalto's furniture brand. The Aalto stool (Stool 60) is one of the best-selling pieces of furniture in the world.
• HAM (Helsinki Art Museum) — City art museum in Tennispalatsi with changing exhibitions. Admission: €15.
• Design Museum — The history of Finnish design from its beginnings to today. A must-visit for design fans. Admission: €14.

Alvar Aalto in Helsinki

The great Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto (1898–1976) shaped Helsinki like no other. His most important works:

• Finlandia Hall — Concert and congress hall on Töölönlahti Lake with the iconic white marble facade (1971).
• Academic Bookstore (Akateeminen Kirjakauppa) — The bookstore on Keskuskatu is an architectural masterpiece: light shafts flood the space.
• Studio Aalto — Aalto's studio in Munkkiniemi can be visited (tour: €20).
• Aalto House — His residence in Munkkiniemi, also visitable (tour: €20).

Cultural Highlights

• National Museum (Kansallismuseo) — Finland's history from the Stone Age to today. Spectacular building in National Romantic style. Admission: €16.
• Kiasma — Museum of contemporary art, designed by Steven Holl. Changing, often provocative exhibitions. Admission: €17.
• Ateneum — Finland's most important art museum with works by Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Hugo Simberg, and international masters. Admission: €18.