Helsinki in Arctic

Helsinki, the Finnish capital and Scandinavian design capital, stands by the shores of the Gulf of Finland. This arctic city showcases magnificent architecture and urban design. Byzantine, neoclassical, and medieval Russian influences make for a unique cityscape. Helsinki is also a haven for contemporary design, found in the Musiikkitalo concert hall, the Kiasma museum of contemporary art, and the magnificent rock-carved church of the Temppeliaukio. A trip to Helsinki is incomplete without visiting its Design District, which is home to the Design Museum. If you’re a fan of avant-garde Finnish design, you’ll be thrilled with the creative glassware, textiles, and home fashion that spill out from the many stylish boutiques and galleries.