A flight to Helsinki opens up a treasure trove of history, fresh seafood and lively bars. Past links with Russia give holidays in Helsinki a different feel to those in other Nordic and European capitals.

Things to do

To make the most of Helsinki airline tickets, the city centre's museums and galleries are a good starting point, close to districts like Taka-Töölö, home to the metal pipes of the abstract Sibelius Monument. Travel to Helsinki's Suomenlinna island for a glimpse of Finland's military past.

Shopping

Helsinki's city centre has plenty to offer the shopper. Fill your Helsinki flight bag with the best of clean-lined Finnish design, or cuddly toys from the Moomin Shop. For markets, try the Kallio and Karrtinakaupunki districts.

Restaurants

For food lovers, flights to Helsinki open up a whole world of cuisine – Lapp and Russian restaurants rub shoulders with traditional Finnish hostelries to create a gourmet mix. Most restaurants cluster in the city centre.

Nightlife

Airline tickets to Helsinki take the visitor to a wide choice of bars and music. The city centre is best for bars, clubs and live bands, while Taka-Töölö is renowned for classical music and international opera.

When to go

KLM has frequent flights to Helsinki, which offers year-round, world-class attractions and events. Helsinki Day and Midsummer's Eve are summer highlights, while the SibaFest winter classics festival is a special January event.