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    Helsinki

    • 👥 Population (municipality): 674,500 (Dec 31, 2023)
    • 🏛️ Founded: by King Gustav I (Gustav Vasa) of Sweden
    • 🗣️ Name origin: Swedish Helsingfors = “Helsinge rapids” (Vanhankaupunginkoski at the mouth of the Vantaa River)
    • 📏 Area: 719 km² (land incl. inland waters 217 km²; sea 502 km²)
    • ⛰️ Elevation: −4 – 103 m a.s.l.
    • ⏰ Time zone: EET (UTC +2, DST EEST +3)
    • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Demonym: Helsinkian / helsinkiläinen / helsingforsare
    • 💰 Currency: Euro (EUR)

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    Answers to frequently asked questions

    ❓ What’s the easiest way to get from Helsinki Airport to the city center?

    👉 Take the I or P commuter train—about 30 minutes—and buy your ticket in the HSL app or use contactless payment.

    ❓ Which HSL zones do I need for typical sightseeing in Helsinki?

    👉 Zone AB covers most central sights, but the airport usually requires an ABC ticket.

    ❓ Can I go to Suomenlinna with a normal public transport ticket?

    👉 Yes—Suomenlinna ferry is part of HSL, and an AB/ABC ticket works.

    ❓ Should I buy single tickets or a day ticket?

    👉 If you’ll ride multiple times in a day, a day ticket often works out cheaper than several single tickets.

    ❓ What should tourists know about sauna etiquette in Helsinki?

    👉 Rules vary by venue, but many mixed public saunas accept—or require—swimwear, so check the sauna’s instructions first.

    ❓ Do I need the HSL app, or can I travel without it?

    👉 You can travel without it using contactless payment in many cases, but the app makes routes and zone choices easier.

    ❓ Where should I stay in Helsinki as a first-time visitor?

    👉 Central Helsinki (Railway Station–Kamppi–Design District) is the easiest for walking and transit connections.

    ❓ Is Helsinki safe at night for tourists?

    👉 Generally yes—just stick to well-lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings like in any city.

    ❓ What are the easiest day trips from Helsinki without a car?

    👉 Tallinn by ferry and Porvoo by bus are the most common “easy wins.”

    ❓ Do I need cash in Helsinki?

    👉 Not really—cards and mobile payments are widely accepted.