The city is still committed to investing in tourism and events and aligns its city strategy and paves the way for a more sustainable, smarter, more vibrant and functional tourism and event city.
A summer of new experiences and renewal in Helsinki
This year, Helsinki will reveal new and fascinating tourist attractions alongside its beloved classics. These include the renovated Hakaniemi market hall, Amos Anderson’s home museum in Hemi and the future Cultural Barracks. In addition, the Helsinki Biennale with its fascinating works of art once again enchants Vallisaari and expands its reach around the city. Other highlights are the U Nation electronic dance music festival at Kansalaistor at the end of June and the beginning of July, and the hop-on hop-off bus connection from Mellunmäki metro station to Sipoonkorvi National Park.
“Kaivopuisto will also host events, such as the performances of the musical Mamma Mia in July. The summer of culture will be completed by the expected exhibitions, such as “Tom of Finland” at Kiasma and “Albert Edelfelt” at Ateneum. The city will be bustling with numerous events and exhibitions as well as the diversification of Helsinki’s accommodation offer, the opening of new restaurants and there’s a lot to be excited about as the product offering develops,” he enthuses. Nina VesterinenDirector of Tourism in Helsinki.
Helsinki fascinates tourists!
The year 2022 and the beginning of 2023 have shown exceptional international visibility for Finland and Helsinki. This has been influenced by several factors, such as discussions about NATO membership, Finland’s consecutive rankings as the happiest country in the world, discussions about the functionality and readiness of Finnish society in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and aggression in the surrounding areas, and most recently the Eurovision Song Contest. craze. As a result, international tour operators and the media have shown exceptional interest in Helsinki’s offerings and efforts towards sustainable tourism and responsible products.
“Our local tourism companies also have positive expectations. According to our pulse survey, more than three-quarters of Helsinki’s tourism companies consider the upcoming tourism season to be good or very good,” says Vesterinen.
Tourist numbers are approaching pre-pandemic levels
With the influx of European tourists, Helsinki is expected to reach almost the pre-pandemic number of tourists this year. However, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to a decrease in the number of Russian tourists. The most flight reservations to Helsinki come from Germany, the United States, Great Britain and France. In addition, significant interest in travel-related searches has been observed in Spain and Italy. A large number of domestic tourists as well as guests from Sweden and Estonia are expected to arrive in Helsinki during the summer.
“Our goal is to extend visitors’ stay in Helsinki. From the perspective of sustainable development, climate change and the economy, extending visitors’ stay is the best way to promote tourism,” Vesterinen emphasizes.
Developing tourism in the midst of uncertainty
However, the development of tourism also involves various uncertainties. Tourism from China and Japan has recovered more slowly than expected. Russia’s valid overflight ban poses a challenge to air traffic between Asia and Helsinki. In addition, there are still several uncertainties associated with the development of the global economy. Although the number of international conferences in Helsinki is increasing, it has not yet reached a peak level. Congress guests are important to Helsinki, as their stays are usually longer than those of leisure travelers and they increase the average consumption. This is how Helsinki aims to facilitate the hosting of large international congresses. The city expects more than 90 international cruise visits this season.
Helsinki tourist information: Tips for tourists and locals
One of the sure signs of summer in Helsinki is the opening of tourist information summer points. In addition to the permanent service point on Aleksanterinkatu, a service point will be opened on May 29 in the Biennale Pavilion between the Old Market Hall and the Market Square.
In addition, Helsinki Helpers, recognizable by their green vests, can be seen on the streets from the beginning of June. Travel information is available in 16 languages this summer. The people of Helsinki are also welcome to the tourist information office to get to know their own city from a tourist’s point of view.
“If you’re celebrating Helsinki Day or expecting guests, our tourist advisors will be happy to give recommendations for Helsinki’s versatile offerings,” says Mari SomeroTravel advisory team manager.
As Helsinki prepares for an exciting summer of tourism, the city’s rich cultural offering, new attractions and commitment to sustainable development attract tourists from near and far. With its vision of a constantly developing and lively destination, Helsinki is on the way to establishing its position as a must-see city in Finland.
HT
Source: The Nordic Page