Background

The Finnish Museum of Photography: Capturing Finnish Life

Explore Finland's visual history and contemporary photography at the Finnish Museum of Photography in Helsinki's vibrant Cable Factory.

4.1

Located in the Cable Factory cultural center in Helsinki, the Finnish Museum of Photography is Finland's national specialized museum for photography. Founded in 1969, it is the oldest photography museum in Europe. The museum showcases a diverse range of photographic art, reflecting the visual narratives of Finland through historical and contemporary exhibitions.

A brief summary to The Finnish Museum of Photography

  • Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-7 pm
  • Friday 11 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Check the museum's website for information on current and upcoming exhibitions, workshops, and special events.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibitions and the history of photography in Finland.
  • The Cable Factory offers various cultural experiences, including other museums, galleries, and events.
  • There is free admission on every last Wednesday of the month, from 4 to 7 pm.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Cable Factory is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station is Ruoholahti (approximately 600 meters away). Tram line 8 stops directly at Kaapelitehdas. Several bus lines, including 21, 21N, 22, 26, and 112N, stop at Salmisaari, which is about 300 meters from the Cable Factory. A single ticket for public transportation in Helsinki costs €3.

  • Walking

    From the Ruoholahti metro station, follow the signs towards the Cable Factory. The walk is approximately 600 meters and takes about 10 minutes. From the Salmisaari bus stop, walk along the main road (Tallberginkatu) towards the large brick building – that's the Cable Factory. The walk is approximately 300 meters and takes about 5 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Helsinki. The closest taxi rank is at the Ruoholahti metro station. You can also book a taxi to Kaapeliaukio 3 or Tallberginkatu. A taxi from Helsinki city center to the Cable Factory will cost approximately €13-€22, depending on the distance and time of day. Taxi fares in Helsinki start at €5.30 during the day and €8.30 at night and on weekends, with a per kilometer rate of €1.39.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Kaapeliaukio 3, Helsinki. There are limited 2-hour paid parking spaces around the Cable Factory. Longer-term parking is available at the Ruoholahti shopping center garage. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2-4 per hour. On weekday evenings (6 PM - 12 AM) and weekends (8 AM - 12 AM), parking is possible on Tammasaarenkatu without a parking contract for a one-time fee, payable through Easypark or Parkman apps.

Unlock the Best of The Finnish Museum of Photography

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Finnish Museum of Photography

The Finnish Museum of Photography, nestled within the Cable Factory (Kaapelitehdas) in Helsinki's Ruoholahti district, is dedicated to promoting and preserving Finnish photographic art and culture. Established in 1969, it stands as the oldest photography museum in Europe. The museum's mission encompasses exhibitions, collection management, education, and research, all aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of photography. The museum's collection includes approximately 3.7 million pictures. The museum's exhibitions feature both Finnish and international photography, highlighting the diverse history and contemporary landscape of the art form. The museum also organizes photography and media-education projects. The Cable Factory itself has a rich history. Constructed between 1939 and 1954, it initially served as a cable factory for Suomen Kaapelitehdas Oy (Finnish Cable Works). In fact, when it was completed in 1954, it was the biggest building in Finland. Cable manufacturing ceased in 1987, and the City of Helsinki acquired the building, transforming it into a cultural center. Today, Kaapelitehdas is the largest cultural center in Finland, housing museums, galleries, studios, and event spaces.

Popular Experiences near The Finnish Museum of Photography

Popular Hotels near The Finnish Museum of Photography

Select Currency