Esplanadi Park: Helsinki's Green Heart
Discover Helsinki's green heart: Esplanadi Park, a vibrant oasis of culture, history, and natural beauty in the city center. A must-see destination!
Esplanadi, affectionately known as Espa by locals, is a beloved park in the heart of Helsinki. This verdant oasis, designed in the early 19th century, offers a tranquil escape with tree-lined alleys, vibrant flowerbeds, and historical monuments, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and residents.
A brief summary to Esplanadi
- Pohjoisesplanadi, Helsinki, FI
- +358931022111
- Visit website
Local tips
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawn during the summer months for a relaxing experience in the heart of the city.
- Attend a free concert or event at the Espa Stage during the summer for a taste of Finnish culture.
- Visit the Kappeli Restaurant for a traditional Finnish meal in a historic setting.
- Admire the statues and monuments, including the statue of Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Finland's national poet.
Getting There
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Walking
Esplanadi Park is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most downtown Helsinki locations. From the Helsinki Central Railway Station, walk southeast along Kaivokatu Street, then turn left onto Keskuskatu Street. Continue onto Aleksanterinkatu Street, and you'll find the park stretching along the south side of the street. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
To reach Esplanadi Park via public transport, take a tram to the 'Aleksanterinkatu' stop. Several tram lines serve this stop, including lines 1, 3, 6 and 7. From the Helsinki Central Railway Station, take tram 4 or 7. A single tram ticket costs €3.20 and is valid for 80 minutes. Purchase tickets from a ticket machine or via the HSL mobile app. Validate your ticket before boarding.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Helsinki. A taxi ride from the Helsinki Central Railway Station to Esplanadi Park typically takes 2-5 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €7 and €10, with a base fare of €4.90 and a per-kilometer rate of €1.13. Taxi stands are located at the railway station and throughout the city center.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ataman Tours
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Päivälehti Archives
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Memorial Plaque for the Air Defence Center
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Alvar Aalto Erottaja Pavilion
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Torikorttelit
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National Memorial to the Winter War
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Snellman Sotheby's International Realty
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Helsinki City Hall
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Royal Line Oy
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Kukeseenelahingu mälestuspaik
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Tsarina's Stone
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Three blacksmiths
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Helsinki City Museum
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Helsinki Cathedral
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Unmissable attractions to see
Johan Ludvig Runebergin muistomerkki
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Statue of Johan Ludvig Runeberg
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Stromma - Helsinki sightseeing by bus
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The Fazer Rooster
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Nordea Bank Museum
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Pohjola Insurance Building
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Havis Amanda
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Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
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Academic Bookstore
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Svenska Teatern
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Helsinki Walking Tour - With Arto
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University of Helsinki
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Helsinki City Rescue Department's Fire Museum
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Old Market Hall
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Essential places to dine
Savoy
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Café Savoy
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Restaurant Pompier
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Ravintola Bronda
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Ravintola Ragu
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Restaurant Salutorget
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Finlandia Caviar Shop & Restaurant
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Ravintola Sue Ellen
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Restaurant Penélope
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Restaurant Story
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Restaurant Savotta
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Nordic Caviar House
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Restaurant Krog Roba
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Restaurant Gaijin
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Ravintola Palace
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Aarikka Oy
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Balmuir Brand Store Helsinki
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Kämp Galleria
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Kankurin Tupa
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Iittala & Arabia Store Esplanadi
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& Other Stories
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Wolford Boutique Helsinki
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Taito Shop Helsinki
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CraftCorner Helsinki
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Reindeer Souvenirs Shop & Kiosk
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Kluuvi Shopping Centre
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Molly Malone's Irish Bar
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Wintergarden Bar
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