Welcome to Helsinki
Helsinki is a modern European cultural city whose urban cosmopolitan lifestyle exists in perfect harmony with nature. Surrounded by the sea and its own exotic archipelago, Helsinki offers visitors an endless number of possibilities. Just as Helsinki cannot be described in one word, neither can it be experienced in just one way. Helsinki really does have something for everyone.
Throughout its 450-year history, Helsinki has existed in the crosscurrents of the East and West. The colourful layers of history can be seen everywhere; a walking tour of the city centre or of the magnificent Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress will open your eyes to a fascinating past.
Today's Helsinki is also a city of the future. Its modern architecture, cutting-edge design and high-technology have attracted international recognition for the city. Unique lifestyles and urban subcultures are all a part of this international metropolis.
Facts
Founded 1550
Capital of Finland 1812
Total area 686 sq.km
Sea 500 sq.km
Land 186 sq.km
Shoreline (mainland) 98 km
Islands 315
Mean temperature (whole year 2003) 5.6°C
Warmest month July, mean temperature 17.2°C
Coldest month February, mean temperature -4.9°C
Total population (2003/2004) 559,330
Men 46,6 %
Women 53,4 %
Finnish-speaking 87 %
Swedish-speaking 6,3 %
Population density (2002) 2,996 inhabitants per sq.km
Total population in the Helsinki Region (2003/2004) 1,233,000
Source: City of Helsinki
For more information about Helsinki and Finland, check out these links:
Helsinki WikiTravel
Lonely Planet, Helsinki
Finland Travel Guide
Virtual Finland
Pictures
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