Uusimaa, Finland Travel Guide

Explore Uusimaa: From Helsinki's vibrant streets to Porvoo's historic charm, discover Finland's coastal beauty and natural wonders in this captivating region.

Uusimaa is a stunning region in southern Finland, known for its vibrant cities, charming coastal towns, and pristine natural beauty. The capital city, Helsinki, is the heart of Uusimaa and offers a mix of modern architecture, historical sites, and a bustling urban culture. Visitors can explore the impressive Helsinki Cathedral, the unique Temppeliaukio Church, and enjoy shopping in the lively Market Square. Beyond Helsinki, Uusimaa boasts picturesque coastal towns like Porvoo, with its cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved wooden houses. Porvoo's Old Town is a must-visit for its quaint cafes, artisan shops, and historical landmarks. Nature lovers will find solace in the region's numerous national parks, such as Nuuksio National Park, where you can hike through serene forests, spot wildlife, and even camp under the stars. Uusimaa's coastline is dotted with idyllic islands and archipelagos, perfect for boat trips and island hopping. The seaside town of Hanko is famous for its sandy beaches and vibrant summer festivals. For a taste of local culture, visit Fiskars Village, a charming artisan village known for its crafts and design. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Uusimaa offers something for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Uusimaa.

Visit Helsinki in the summer to enjoy outdoor festivals and events.
Take a day trip to Porvoo for a glimpse of Finland's historical charm.
Explore Nuuksio National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Try local Finnish cuisine in Fiskars Village for an authentic experience.
Rent a bike in Hanko to explore the scenic coastlines at your own pace.

Top City Travel Guides in Uusimaa

The cities of Uusimaa, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Helsinki

Porvoo

Lahti

Espoo

Destinations in Uusimaa

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Nuuksio National Park

Helsinki Archipelago

Explore Uusimaa: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Linnanmäki

Experience the thrill and joy at Linnanmäki, Helsinki's iconic amusement park with rides, games, and entertainment for all ages.

4.5

Suomenlinna

Explore Suomenlinna, Helsinki's captivating sea fortress, rich in history and natural beauty, where every corner tells a story.

4.6

Kamppi Helsinki

Discover Kamppi Helsinki, the ultimate shopping mall offering a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and beauty services in the heart of the city.

4.1

Temppeliaukio Church

Discover the unique Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki, a stunning architectural marvel carved from rock, offering breathtaking acoustics and a peaceful atmosphere.

4.4

Best landmarks in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Helsinki Market Square

Experience the heart of Helsinki at Market Square, where local delicacies, unique crafts, and vibrant culture come together in a stunning waterfront setting.

4.3

Suomenlinna

Experience the rich history and breathtaking views at Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and must-see fortress in Helsinki's archipelago.

4.6

Senate Square

Explore the architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Senate Square, a must-visit landmark in Helsinki's city center.

4.5

Temppeliaukio Church

Discover the serene beauty of Temppeliaukio Church, a rock-hewn architectural marvel and concert hall in the heart of Helsinki, Finland.

4.4

Best restaurants in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Restaurant Vltava

Savor authentic Czech dishes and delightful drinks at Restaurant Vltava in Helsinki – a must-visit culinary experience.

4.0

Lappi Ravintola

Discover authentic Finnish flavors at Lappi Ravintola in Helsinki – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.5

Restaurant Konstan Möljä

Experience authentic Finnish cuisine at Restaurant Konstan Möljä in Helsinki - where tradition meets flavor.

4.5

Restaurant Savotta

Experience authentic Finnish cuisine in a cozy setting at Restaurant Savotta - a culinary treasure in Helsinki.

4.4

Best bars in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Suomenlinna

Discover the historic beauty of Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views, rich culture, and vibrant history in Helsinki.

4.6

Helsinki Airport

Experience seamless travel at Helsinki Airport, Finland's premier international gateway, blending modern design and exceptional services for all travelers.

4.4

Nuuksio National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Nuuksio National Park, a nature lover's paradise near Espoo, Finland.

4.7

Kaisla

Discover Kaisla in Helsinki, where exceptional craft beers meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Tavastia

Discover Tavastia, Helsinki's legendary rock club where live music meets an electrifying atmosphere, making every night unforgettable.

4.4

Apollo Live Club

Discover an electrifying nightlife experience at Apollo Live Club, where live music and comedy unite in the heart of Helsinki.

3.9

Heidi's Bier Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Heidi's Bier Bar, a top destination for nightlife in Helsinki.

3.5

Ravintola Kaarle XII

Experience the heart of Helsinki's nightlife at Ravintola Kaarle XII, a historic night club offering vibrant music and unforgettable nights.

3.8

Best shops in Uusimaa

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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Shopping Centre Jumbo-Flamingo

Explore Jumbo-Flamingo, a premier shopping destination in Vantaa, Finland, featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.3

Helsinki Market Square

Discover the vibrant Helsinki Market Square, a cultural hotspot filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and stunning waterfront views in the heart of Finland.

4.3

Kamppi Helsinki

Discover Kamppi Helsinki, a vibrant shopping center with diverse stores, dining options, and relaxation spaces in the heart of the city.

4.1

Kamppi Helsinki

Discover Kamppi Helsinki: A shopping paradise with diverse dining and leisure options, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.

4.1

Explore Uusimaa on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Uusimaa, mapped for you.

Uusimaa Essentials

Uusimaa, Finland is easily accessible via several modes of transportation. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main international gateway, located just 20 kilometers north of Helsinki. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to various parts of Uusimaa. Alternatively, Uusimaa is well-connected by train from other Finnish cities and neighboring countries via the Finnish railway network. If you prefer driving, major highways E18, E75, and E12 provide easy access to the region.
Public transportation in Uusimaa is efficient and well-organized. The Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) manages buses, trams, commuter trains, and the metro system in Helsinki and its surrounding areas. You can purchase single tickets, day passes, or travel cards for unlimited travel. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in the region. For those who prefer cycling, Uusimaa boasts an extensive network of bike paths.
The official currency in Finland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payment is also common. ATMs are plentiful, and you can easily withdraw cash if needed. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
Uusimaa is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Helsinki's central areas like Kamppi and Kallio have higher incidences of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, particularly in crowded places. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Helsinki University Hospital (HUH) provides excellent medical care. Pharmacies are widely available, and many are open 24/7. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress in layers to adapt to Finland's variable weather. Avoid overly casual attire in finer dining establishments. Religion: Do respect religious customs when visiting churches. Removing hats and speaking softly is appreciated. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't talk loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Avoid overly enthusiastic displays of affection. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'karjalanpiirakka' and 'lohikeitto'. Don't tip excessively; service charges are usually included in the bill.
To experience Uusimaa like a local, visit the various outdoor markets such as the Hakaniemi Market Hall in Helsinki. Take advantage of the region's extensive network of nature trails and national parks, including Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi. Attend local festivals and events, such as the Flow Festival and Helsinki Day, to immerse yourself in Finnish culture. For a unique experience, take a ferry to the nearby archipelago and explore the beautiful coastal landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Uusimaa?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Uusimaa

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Uusimaa. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHi
  [hai]
- GoodbyeBye
  [bai]
- YesYeah
  [yea]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pleez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thangs]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sorree]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it goin]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud. yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [doo yoo speek ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [ai dont get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan ai see thuh men-yoo?]
- I don't eat meatI’m vegetarian
  [aim vege-tair-ee-an]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [kan ai get thuh chek?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [leev mee uh-lone]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call thuh cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a dok-ter]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [aim lost]
- I'm illI’m not feeling well
  [aim not feel-ing wel]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [ai want to bai...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [whats thuh pryce?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s too pricey
  [thats too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you give a discount?
  [kan yoo giv a dis-kount?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [whut taim iz it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o’clock
  [its wun uh-clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haf past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [eev-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fiv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [wheres thuh...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [whats thuh ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?
  [kan yoo sho mee on thuh map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens thuh nekst bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...
  [wun tik-it to...]

History of Uusimaa

Uusimaa, or Nyland in Swedish, was part of the Kingdom of Sweden from the 12th century until 1809. Swedish settlers arrived and established several towns, including Helsinki in 1550 by King Gustav Vasa. The region's architecture, language, and cultural practices were heavily influenced by Swedish rule, which is still evident today.
The Great Northern War had a significant impact on Uusimaa. Russian troops invaded and occupied the region, leading to the destruction of many towns and villages. The war culminated in the Treaty of Nystad in 1721, which ceded parts of Finland to Russia, although Uusimaa remained under Swedish control until 1809.
Uusimaa was a battleground during the Russo-Swedish War. The coastal areas saw numerous naval battles, including the Battle of Svensksund in 1790, one of the largest naval battles in the Baltic Sea. This conflict further strained the resources of the region and its inhabitants.
Following the Finnish War between Sweden and Russia, Uusimaa became part of the Russian Empire in 1809. The shift from Swedish to Russian rule marked significant changes, including the relocation of the Finnish capital from Turku to Helsinki in 1812, transforming Helsinki into a significant administrative center.
Under Russian rule, Helsinki underwent substantial urban development. German architect Carl Ludvig Engel was commissioned to design several neoclassical buildings, including the Helsinki Cathedral and the Senate Square. This era saw Helsinki emerge as the cultural and political hub of Finland.
Uusimaa was a significant theater in the Finnish Civil War between the Red Guards (socialists) and the White Guards (conservatives). The Battle of Helsinki and other skirmishes resulted in considerable destruction and loss of life. The war concluded with a White victory, leading to the establishment of independent Finland.
During World War II, Uusimaa was heavily involved in both the Winter War and the Continuation War against the Soviet Union. Helsinki was bombed multiple times, but significant defensive efforts, including air raid shelters and anti-aircraft measures, mitigated damage. The wars left a lasting impact on the region’s infrastructure and population.
After World War II, Uusimaa underwent rapid reconstruction and modernization. Helsinki played a pivotal role in hosting the 1952 Summer Olympics, showcasing Finland's recovery and technological progress. Today, Uusimaa is a vibrant region blending historical heritage with contemporary culture and innovation.