It was a reasonably chilly day in Helsinki, but nevertheless I decided it was a good day to carry on exploring the city. Taking a bus into the city, I jumped out and got started that the Kauppatori Outdoor Market for an early lunch.
At a market I browsed the various stalls, and decided to be brave and try eating Vendace. They are a small fried fish that you can eat whole, which contains very tiny bones which you can barely notice when you eat it. I am sure its not everyone’s ideal lunch, but it’s a popular food in Finland, and to me the taste was excellent – I got myself a full portion of it for a meal.
After lunch was a good time to indulge in the unique and delicious Finnish, choosing a liquorice flavour. It was a perfect way to cap off a delicious meal, regardless of the chilly day.
Having refueled at the market, I set off at the beginning of the trail. Although I only did a portion of it, since it’s a grand total distance of 130 km going all the way from the urban shore of the city to the suburban areas.
As I traveled along the route, I enjoyed watching the ferries busily arriving and departing from Helsinki’s harbour. From Helsinki these are the current ferry routes you can take: to Tallinn – Estonia, Stockholm or Kapellskär in Sweden, Finland’s Åland Islands – just off the coast of Turku and Travemünde – Germany.
Across the water, I had great views of Suomenlinna. Even with a few clouds softening the light, the view was stunning.
Along the route I explored Kaivopuisto Park, which is a historic park established in 1834. This beautiful park offers magnificent sea views from the top of the hill, understandably making it the most famous and popular park in Helsinki.
Kaivopuisto Park you can see the Ursa Observatory which dates back to 1926. You can check out their website for opening days and hours.
Looking for the next refreshment stop, I went to Hietalahti Market which is a bustling culinary hub offering a unique shopping experiencing with local produce and Finnish delicacies, artisan crafts and gourmet foods. While I was there I stopped for a coffee.
Helsinki Central Library Oodi
My friends recommended I take a look at Helsinki’s central library because it showcases what a modern and well equipped library should look like. I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting much from a library visit. But I was surprised. It was much more than a traditional library, it redefines the whole concept of a library.
Besides the interesting exterior, loads of books across different genres, it has 3D printers, sewing machines, quiet areas, a gaming room and a recording studio. It even had a small cinema in it which screens films and documentaries. The top floors of the library there are beautiful views you can enjoy. On the ground floor there is a cafe offering meals, beverages and local snacks.
Shells Adventures 