HELSINKI

Helsinki is the Capital of Finland and the centre of the urban metropolitan area of about 1,5 million inhabitants. Finland has been ranked as the world’s best country to live in, and Helsinki is one of the world’s cleanest and safest capitals. 

Finland is called “the land of thousand lakes” and its clean unspoiled nature can be found very close to Helsinki. If you happen to have a day extra, you can take a trip in the surrounding nature, for example go birdwatching or hiking in Nuuksio or Sipoonkorpi National Parks near Helsinki, or bathe in a public sauna by the seashore. 

Helsinki's other attractions range from the fabulous island fortress of Suomenlinna and the National Museum showing the Finnish history, to the startling Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the unique Temppeliaukio Church that has been built inside the base rock. 

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress - Photo: Jussi Hellsten


Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

WEATHER IN HELSINKI

June is the first summer month in Helsinki, while July is the hottest month. At the time of the congress between June and July, the daily highs are typically around +20°C, but may vary a lot. It's usually sunny but there is always a chance of rain as weather in Finland can change quickly. 

The sea water temperature is typically about +18°C, but may vary from 16°C to 20°C. So, you might want to pack your swimwear if you want to visit the saunas.

FOOD AND DRINK

In Finland, tap water is drinkable and even cleaner than in the bottles. You can easily fill your own bottle and fill it, instead of buying bottled water. Besides meals provided during the congress, you might want to try some of the local restaurants

There is a variety of high-level restaurants also with vegan options available in Helsinki. All restaurant prices include service, so you don’t need to leave a tip - but if you want, you can still reward good service. 

               

A&S Restaurants offer a discount for congress participants. With this Discount coupon you get a 10% discount on food and drinks in restaurants Saaga, Savotta and Saari, all located in Helsinki. Print the coupon or show it at the restaurant from your mobile device. When making a table reservation, please mention that you have a discount coupon. More information at A&S Restaurants web site.   

TRAVELING TO HELSINKI

You can easily travel to Helsinki by plane from various European cities but also outside Europe. Moreover, there are ferry connections to Helsinki harbour from Stockholm, Sweden and from Tallinn, Estonia. See more at MyHelsinki website.  

Public transport is a great way to travel from the Helsinki-Vantaa airport to Helsinki city center, or to get around Helsinki metropolitan area. See more at the HSL website for visitors.

Temppeliaukio "Rock" Church

Allas Sea Pool, Photo by Julia Kivelä