14 of the best · Helsinki, Finland
Parks, Gardens and Islands in Helsinki
The Esplanadi, Kaivopuisto by the sea, the botanic garden, Töölönlahti Bay and the islands.
Our 14 favourites, listed A–Z · Updated October 2026
What's onThis week in Helsinki
Insiders' picks
Three of our favourites from this list, vetted by people who know and love Helsinki.
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On the southern shore
Kaivopuisto Park
A seaside park on the southern shore, with Café Ursula on the water.
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Between the two Esplanadi streets
Esplanadi Park
The tree-lined park between Pohjoisesplanadi and Eteläesplanadi, from the theatre to the harbour.
The full list: Parks, A–Z
Show all 14 places on a map
Parks & gardens 9
Green space in the city.
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Forest in the city
Central Park (Keskuspuisto)
The long green spine of forest running north from Töölö.
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Between the two Esplanadi streets
Esplanadi Park
The tree-lined park between Pohjoisesplanadi and Eteläesplanadi, from the theatre to the harbour.
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Glasshouses by the station
Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden
The university’s botanic garden and glasshouses, by the station.
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On the southern shore
Kaivopuisto Park
A seaside park on the southern shore, with Café Ursula on the water.
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Views over the harbour
Tähtitorninvuori (Observatory Hill)
A hill park above the South Harbour, by the old observatory.
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A loop round the water
Töölönlahti Bay
The bay behind Oodi and the Opera, with a path all the way round.
Islands 5
A short boat ride away.
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A sauna and restaurant island
Lonna
A small island between the Market Square and Suomenlinna, with a sauna and restaurant in season.
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Over a footbridge
Seurasaari Island
A wooded island park, reached by a footbridge, with the open-air museum.
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Explore more of Helsinki
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13 of the best Bars
21 of the best Hotels16 of the best Sights17 of the best Museums & Arts7 of the best Walks
18 of the best Shopping
19 of the best Saunas & Health7 of the best Property6 of the best Developments5 of the best Motoring11 of the best Getting Around