Helsinki - worth a visit?
 

I have seen mixed messages about Helsinki. We are planning a trip to Russia in July and were considering starting the trip in Helsinki and then working over to Russia. Would 3 days in Helsinki be too much - is it worth a stopover?

Thanks

Helsinki is GREAT! Don't mis the pub tram! :-D

kchang,

i would suggest to make it one or two days (it is pretty but can be cold in winters!). that should be sufficient. Take a guided tour which start for example at the harbor, from where the Silja Lines ferries depart (but not the Finnjet terminal at Katajanokka). It will take you to the famous church in the rocks and the Sibelius monument.
the day you are saving could be "invested" into Tallinn on the opposite shore, which has a very pretty Old Town. It is a bit touristy, esp. in summers, when there are lots of cruise ships and ferries coming into port, but very worthwhile.
Regards
hsv

Just come back from two and a bit days in Helsinki. We thought it was worth the visit. I am interested in architecture so it was interesting for me as there are some fanstastic art deco buildings. Its like Gotham City on the Baltic. Some good galleries and excellent, if expensive food. A trip to Tallinn is 1 1/2 hours and 30 euro away.