Day 17: Helsinki in fast forward

The day started again with a somewhat rich homemade breakfast. Unfortunately, we had to pack our things and tidy up the apartment before heading to the city center with our backpacks.

We stored our luggage in a locker at the central station before heading to the market square and directly to the next boat - yes, the market square of Helsinki is located by the water.

For the next 90 minutes, we were maneuvered through the archipelago landscape off the coast, passing by the Suomenlinna fortress and several smaller and larger islands, almost all of which are inhabited, including the Helsinki Zoo. It is also located on an island and is the northernmost zoo with animals from all over the world.

It quickly became clear that many residents of the capital own a summer house on one of the islands and also boats to reach them. In the bright sunshine on this beautiful Sunday afternoon, there were sailing, motor, and rowing boats with Finns on board.

The houses on the islands vary greatly - from small wooden cottages to new single-family houses, row house settlements, and huge old villas. Their common feature: the indispensable sauna cottage. 😅

After the boat tour, we boarded a sightseeing bus just a few meters away. An audio guide, also available in German, provided information about important sights as well as the city and its residents.

Stops included the Sibelius Monument, the Senate Square, the Market Square, the Olympic Stadium, and Ateneum. We initially got off at the Rock Church, probably one of the most famous buildings in the city. We liked the church very much, although it was less impressive than expected. In addition, a Japanese tourist group was making noise in the room, which somewhat affected the atmosphere. 😑

After stocking up on souvenirs and gifts in a small shop, we took the bus a few more stops to the Senate Square. Here stands the gleaming white Helsinki Cathedral, which had to be climbed via many steps - and then we could only take a brief look inside because an event was about to start.

What we saw, however, was white and gold and appeared impressive due to its sheer size, but still rather simple and elegant.

Unfortunately, we could only admire the Russian Orthodox Church with its green roofs from the outside, as the opening hours on Sundays are very limited.

Then we took the tram to our final destination, the Finnish National Museum. After finally finding the entrance, we were guided through many historical eras - from the Stone Age to the Enlightenment.

It was particularly nice that there was a lot to touch again. So, we were able to touch exhibition pieces or replicas of Stone Age weapons and tools and even try on digital Celtic rings.

At the end of the exhibition, there was a golden Russian imperial throne, which looked the most uncomfortable of all the dresses we have seen on our trip so far. In addition, there were many church artworks on display as well as jewelry, clothing, and everyday objects from Finns of different eras and social classes.

The exhibition was very interesting overall, but unfortunately we did not have enough time to look at everything in detail.

Back at the central station, we had dinner at Burger King and then headed to the international market in the square. Here, we stocked up on British fudge in various flavors and admired the offerings at the German stand: sausage with potato salad, sausage with sauerkraut, and currywurst. 😆

In the remaining time until the departure of the night train, we bought breakfast for tomorrow and observed people in the station hall.

Now we are finally in our sleeping compartment and the water for the shower is gone. However, the beds are comfortable and we have water, fudge, cookies, and breakfast, so all is well. 😅

We say goodbye for today and let ourselves be comfortably transported to Santa Claus in our sleep!