Alternative Helsinki

Helsinki hints for an independent exploration. Maybe after a tour in the clean-cut center of Helsinki you want to see something more “rough around the edges”?

The Route

• Laterna Magica – Bookstore, Dungeon Art gallery and a shop for curiosities and antiques.
• Museum of Civil Defence – The strangest museum in Helsinki – open only on Saturdays 10:00 – 14:00.
• Arena Center Hakaniemi – If you want to see and actual Civil Defence shelter currently used as playgrounds for children and adults
• Cafe Talo: Popular laid-back alternative cafe with mostly vegetarian servings.
• Hakaniemi Record Stores: Levykauppa Äx and Hippie Shake Records
• Kallion Kirkko – an iconic Helsinki landmark
• Karhupuisto – a small park, also known as bear park is located in the heart of Kallio
• Kotiharjun Sauna – experience a traditional wood-burning sauna in Helsinki
• Cafe Pequeño – Enjoy specialty coffee, craft beer, organic and natural wines, Argentine sweet and savory snacks
•  Pizzeria Via Tribunali Kallio – Enjoy Italian, Neapolitan pizza
• Suvilahti – A former power plant turned cultural event center.
• Sompasauna – Experience a bit anarchistic Finnish sauna