Fun and entertainment Finland

Next to the Helsinki Club, the ideal place to start the evening. Good music, nice welcome and possibility to buy on site a whole series of Cds or vinyl dégotés by experts in this field. Ask Matti who will be happy to inform you.

On the double Esplanade, in the heart of the city, Teatteri is a complex with a restaurant, two bars with terraces and a club. Since its opening in 2000, it has become one of the most popular addresses in Helsinki. Many Helsinkians and tourists enjoy their beer here (on the ground floor or upstairs) under the foliage of the linden trees sifting the summer sun. The atmosphere is pleasant during the day and trendy at night under the large glass roof, at the Kellobaari or in the club.

Kaurismäki filmmakers and brothers invested in two nearby bars in Helsinki: the Mockba (Moscow) and the Corona. The first one seems straight out of one of their films. Difficult to locate from the street, a filthy limit when entered, an almost icy waitress and titles dating from the Soviet era. In short, to drink a beer like the original movie version without subtitles.

Here you find the best korvapuusti (cinnamon cakes) in Helsinki.

In the Kallio district, Bear Park is a mecca for gay and lesbian culture in Helsinki. Opposite the café, the old kiosk in Karhupuisto Park was refurbished in 2002 and serves as an annex and terrace all summer long. The Bear Park Cafe has become, by the number of reports, a must-visit place to enjoy the long summer evenings (the sun sets at midnight in July!). You can even nibble pastries and eat ice cream. The café across the street is open all year round.

With its air of a Tropezian terrace, you'd think you were on the Côte d'Azur. There's no shortage of atmosphere, especially at the champagne bar where ice cubes are piled high, but the main attraction is the view of the Baltic Sea below Kaivopuisto Park. A good stop-off after a lazy day in the park or on the beaches of the surrounding islands. Take the opportunity to take a look at the traditional carpets drying in the sun (the bar is an old pier used to clean the multicolored carpets on boats).

A bar with an iconoclastic decoration, both hippie and vintage, where all the objects and furniture have been recovered. The atmosphere is friendly, the clientele rather bobo. Cheaper drinks than elsewhere also attract a lot of students. Groups join the Kuka for live music on certain evenings. If you want to relax, dance, enjoy an evening with locals or friends, you will find everything you need here: good mood, good drinks, good music and a lot of sympathy from the staff.

A colorful, bohemian ambience in this eccentric, one-of-a-kind little café, a place to daydream to the sounds of haunting world music, while trying out the still-warm pastries and an excellent selection of teas. A rare and magnificent address, decorated in a disparate way and as if devoid of any logic, but where everything seems to find its place, for the better (and for laughter). The clientele is made up of locals and tourists on the prowl, who come to share a little moment of magic and humanity that only Helsinki sometimes seems to offer!

This building was designed by Alvar Aalto in the 1950s, and opened in 1958 after three years of construction. The building has aged rather well, with only the copper in the office wing a little blackened. This house of culture was built back then, by volunteers! Today, the 1,400-seat venue hosts a wide range of concerts, the program for which can be found on their website.

A Spanish-Finnish couple run this bright downtown café, beautifully decorated in a light and spacious vintage style. You'll never find the same chairs or tables - everything is recycled and comes from different places. We love the cosy atmosphere, the rocking chairs, the more comfortable armchairs for a coffee... A relaxing space full of charm and tranquillity. The dishes are simple but with a lot of taste and fresh products. We love the cakes and the hot drinks, delicious. A must try!

A nice little coffee in the city centre offers you coffee from Péru and Guatemala, roasted here in Kouvola. Result: two types of grains named Sysikymi-kahvi and Kouvola-Kahvi. The baristas will explain to you all the peculiarities of their coffee and will make you enjoy an excellent coffee (or tea) to your taste. An increasingly popular place, held by passionate young people. You can also offer some pastries and spend a good time in this surprising and modern shop…

Andante is an original café-flower bar that welcomes not only local fashionistas, but also an adorable rabbit who even has his own little plywood bed among the green plants. The cappuccino and macchiato are to die for, the service is charming and the silky rodent... to die for. And for a one-way trip to Japan, we'll go for the matcha latté, which may or may not be accompanied by a delicious brioche cinnamon roll. What more could you ask for than to take your time, savour and enjoy this cosy place?

A tea room and café by day, this bar opened in 2016 and becomes a wine bar at weekends. While the clean, designer decor lacks a bit of soul, the coffee is excellent, the pastries are good and the wine selection is very appealing. Ideal for a break after a visit to the Helsinki Municipal Museum, which adjoins the café. It's a really nice place, which has kept its soul year after year, and whose success is undeniable. Don't hesitate to come and taste for yourself the lunch served during the week - you won't regret it.

The Sirdie pub is a roots pub, Finnish-style, with a friendly old-fashioned jukebox. A real institution in Kallio, far, far removed from the new wave of trendy bars that has swept through the area. The decor is very nice, with a vintage feel, wood, old posters and picture frames. It's even said that little or nothing has changed since it opened fifty years ago! It really is the kind of little local pub, not too well known and a little intimate, with a nostalgic 1960s feel.

Opened by filmmaker brothers Aki and Maki Kaurismäki, true icons of Finnish independent cinema, this bar and pool hall has an authentic, relaxed charm. Around a huge oval counter in corrugated iron, a local clientele made up of penniless cinephiles, hipsters not hipster... Behind the bar, one pool table after the other is crowded with young people. In the basement, the screening room is the venue of choice for many of Helsinki's independent film festivals. A place that moves and moves the city.

By day, local retired workers come here to whistle a few beers, hit the slots and watch the sports on the big screens. By night, the cool kids invade this unassuming bar... to whistle a few beers and hit the slot machines, play pinball or enjoy happy hour. At weekends, a DJ takes to the decks and (sometimes) transforms the premises into a fiery dancefloor. A slightly alternative address that often has some nice surprises in store, such as the exhibitions it organizes.

A good choice to start an evening in the heart of Kallio. Featuring cutting-edge electro DJs, it's an eclectic selection for this ultra-hip bar-club. And you can even get there early, as they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. They even specialize in fresh produce and gluten-free cuisine, with plenty of vegan options. Lovely terrace in summer. And if the evening closes too early for you, good news: there's always time to end the evening right next door, at Club Kaiku.

Decorated with care and attention to detail, the Vegas has above all become a must with its famous pianowar. An interactive and hilarious show that sees a duo of pianists play the jukeboxes in a remarkable way. Not to be missed! In addition to the main hall dedicated to pop music, two other redecorated areas offer more country and rock atmospheres. And of course who says box in Finland says gaming table, including, and this is rare enough to be underlined, a poker table. It's a great place to spend a good evening, to clear your head, to dance and have fun.

Opposite the library, Bar Ö is a key address in Turku's cultural and student life. Here, in a vast room decorated with rather modern works, never a week goes by without an artistic event (concert, exhibition...). You can choose to sit at a table or on one of the sofas and enjoy the life and atmosphere. On the drinks front, there's a nice surprise in the form of (very) reasonable prices (for Finland) and a fine selection of both local and international beers. In short, the perfect place to remake the world!

The most recent of all existing bars in Marienham, Pub Frans opened its doors in the last week of September 2023. This new addition to the town's rich list of establishments is in fact the takeover of a former pub that closed its doors. No real surprises here: a pleasant room and a selection of beers with an international as well as a very local accent. The venue also broadcasts local soccer matches. We'll have to come back in a few years' time to find out if the gamble has paid off!

If you're looking for a café open on a Sunday in Mariehamn, look no further than Torgattan 5! Located right on the town's main street, it's a simple and efficient address, beautifully decorated. The service is smiling and eager, with a barista offering a fine selection of coffees. On the food side, good chocolate cakes and some oriental pastries (which are also delicious). A pleasant place to sit back and relax before embarking on new adventures.

In the centre of Turku, a few steps away from the tourist sites, along the canal, one comes to Tiirikkala for a break, whether it is early in the morning or in the early evening. Coffee lovers are advised to taste their caffe latte, which is excellent! The excellent pastries also deserve to be tempted. And the best part: in this magnificent, recently renovated wooden building, you can also start your evening with good cocktails and blues/jazz contests at the weekends. Delicious breakfast!

In a beautiful setting reminiscent of a bookshop, this bar offers an incredible selection of draught beers, as well as (and above all) whiskies from all over the world. The barman will be delighted to explain the different drinks available to suit your tastes and desires. A relatively recent opening, but one that has already won over its public (especially on Friday and Saturday evenings, when the room is always packed). A great place to discover hops from Finland (and beyond). We recommend it!

A beautiful building built in 1988 by Arto Sipinen, a disciple of Alvar Aalto. Located just in front of a lake, this white building with its pure lines and impeccable acoustics invites you to dream. The interior is luminous, with superb ceiling heights... Bewitching! It regularly hosts ballets, comedies and concerts. To find all the events, go to the online calendar available on the website. On the spot, for the days of events, a large restaurant of approximately 250 places awaits you

This grain mill celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2012, it is one of the oldest industrial sites still in operation in Finland and the entire property has been classified as a cultural and historical site. Set along the river rapids, this summer café, which adjoins the water mill used to grind the grain, has a certain cachet and appeals to families when the weather is fine. The pastries are delicious! You can also eat there on the evenings of shows that are played at the Théâtre de plein air. The shop sells bags of cereals, guaranteed organic of course.

Finnish wines? It's possible... but without grapes! At this establishment, established in 1995, you can buy and taste a range of ciders, wines (whites and rosés) and liqueurs made from apples and berries. All guaranteed "good for you" by a hostess who advises on the best way to accompany meals. Bonus: the pleasant turret, which in summer becomes a truly charming place to enjoy an aperitif! The restaurant (up to 430 covers in summer) and Bed & Breakfast are bookable in advance.

The atmosphere is assured and unique in this little karaoke bar located in the city's old public toilets from the 1950s. It's a pity that the place is small, as it can fill up quickly in the evening (between thirty and forty people max) and make it difficult to sing, despite a good atmosphere and friendly staff. Good to know: good choice of drinks, but no food. In short, an address worth discovering, perhaps in passing, but which may put some people off, especially at the end of the evening with the crowds and a certain tiredness on the part of the staff.

Since 2002, Cirko - Center for New Circus has been working for the promotion and development of circus arts in Finland. In 2011, they moved to the heart of Suvilahti, in a premises of more than 1,400 ^m2. This new training centre and dedicated performance hall showcases the best in contemporary circus art and actively participates every year in the largest Nordic contemporary circus festival. Programming is always successful, we recommend!

Opened in 2007 as a former amphitheatre and cinema, the Apollo Club has quickly established itself as one of the most popular venues in the city, thanks to its unique setting and program of concerts and stand-ups. Don't hesitate to take a look at the program, easily available on the Internet or on their Facebook page. And if the day's event doesn't appeal to you, you can always head to the Apollo bar or karaoke area with family or friends! (Minimum age 24 for karaoke and bar, Friday and Saturday)

A Viennese style café, the Strindberg is a local institution, with its somewhat chic Café de Flore atmosphere, a haven for writers, publishers and other artists. At the slightest ray of sunshine, its terrace is always full, while its large interior room welcomes you for a piece of cake or lunch. Inside, one contemplates the collection of portraits and other photographs. Complete the experience by passing through the bar-library upstairs (closed on Sundays, from 11am). The place is particularly relaxing!

In summer or winter, when you're strolling through the streets of Helsinki, perhaps you've already seen the funny sight of this red streetcar where passengers seem to be dancing, having a drink or eating while traveling. If so, don't think you've been fooled: you've simply seen the SpåraKOFF streetcar go by, which is a real streetcar in disguise! Passing through the city's major tourist hotspots, it offers a quirky, out-of-this-world experience where all you have to do is hop on, sit back and enjoy the ride!

Housed in a former tramway repair workshop, this "cultural factory" offers access to everything that's happening in Finnish culture today, thanks to several exhibition spaces, three concert-theater halls and a bookshop. These yellow buildings in the middle of a quiet neighborhood are home to one of the largest cultural spaces in the Nordic region. You can also simply enjoy the trendy bar and listen to the latest DJs in the courtyard in summer, or work in the public workspace.

Why don't we get out there and have a little party? With Sun Lines, we treat ourselves to a mini disco cruise that mixes hits from the 70s and 80s. As you wish, one Wednesday evening, we embark for a meal between the Helsikian islands, we contemplate the setting sun and the magnificent colours before going dancing on the dance floor! Or if not, why not try the 100% disco and dance Friday nights. Superb walk at the same time which we enjoy fully, the sun does not set until very late in summer. Family clientele and rather middle-aged.

A literary bar? Sivukirjasto did it and it must be said that the cosy place, full of books here and there, offers a nice menu of beers from all origins for a relaxing moment with friends after work. It's hard to say whether, after a few drinks, those who passionately declaim a Shakespeare verse are true literary enthusiasts or simply in a good mood... The plus: a nice little selection of board games available to guests, ideal when you come with friends or family, for a relaxing evening or a rainy afternoon.

Torrefazione's little sister, by the same team of passionate baristas, brilliantly led by Jens Hampf. Here, in a more spacious and accessible location, you'll find freshly roasted quality coffee, Italian-inspired sandwiches and other delicacies, delicious smoothies and artisanal ice cream produced by a small company in Espoo. On Saturdays, we take the opportunity to come for brunch, or during the week, we drop in between noon and two to see what the lounas has in store for us. Friendly staff, good value for money.

This popular chain of juice and smoothie stands has a knack for concocting multivitamin cocktails that are colorful, fresh, original and always delicious. We recommend the Green Gorilla, an explosive 100% green cocktail combining mango, pear, date, mint, spinach, oak leaf and orange juice. It's enough to make even the most reluctant consumers love fruit (and vegetables)! Plus: daring combinations! To get there, take the escalators to the basement next to the Kluuvikatu entrance.

To all gourmets who will certainly hesitate between the Sacher and the lemon meringue tart, succumb to the temptation and opt for the cake buffet! Good French-inspired pastries to enjoy over tea or coffee while taking your time... It is a pleasure for the eyes, and on the taste buds, the mix of flavours is a success. Runebergintorttu, this cake from Porvoo is a delight with its amaretto notes. There are also some savoury suggestions such as quiches or cakes.

In the Katajanokka district, to the east of downtown Helsinki, in a rather quiet, residential area, you'll find the most local pub there is, where the owner and customers are surprised to see a new face arrive on a Saturday night! With a decor that smells of the sea and ships, karaoke and a jukebox (which works!), all you have to do is order and get into the mood of this place that makes you smile and want to extend the evening. Not trendy or fashionable, but authentic and therefore precious!

" Real beers for real people ": the Cask Room pub's slogan says it all! Here, we drink local beers, brewed on site and absolutely impossible to find anywhere else. This charming pub, located just opposite the station, is packed with an eclectic mix of tourists, regulars and curious onlookers attracted by the prospect of an unusual taste. The choice of beverages is vast, from lagers and pale ales to bitter Guinness-style beers. With friendly, efficient service, it's the ideal place to start the evening!

Housed in a former pharmacy, it's a shame the apothecary's no longer there, although the barman will be able to distill clever whiskies for you. At the bar, standing in front of the superb counter or sitting in the book corner, you'll find that alcohol may not cure all ills, but it can help you live (in moderation, of course). Once again, the setting is unique. The clientele, usually between 30 and 50 during the week, is rejuvenated for a weekend. Home-brewed beer in the cellar. We love it and recommend it (warmly).

Did you dream about singing in a taxi? The Finns did it! Welcome to the "Mobile Karaoke", a taxi-minibus equipped like a real karaoke bar for 12 people to whom you make an appointment. For fans of the American show, it's James Corden's Carpool Karaoke atmosphere. In the long list of songs, there's a great choice in English with must-haves like the Beatles but you can also have fun on Boney M or the Village People! Ideal with friends or family, to have a real good time of fun and relaxation.

It was designed for its acoustics and built accordingly (and spring-mounted to avoid resonance from outside traffic). It is mainly used for concerts by the Sibelius Academy, the Philharmonic Orchestra and the Helsinki Radio Symphony Orchestra. The building features a large 1,700-seat concert hall with high-quality acoustics, as well as five smaller halls, an auditorium and classrooms for the Sibelius Academy.

Cinephiles, here's a nice nugget! The former Kavi Cinematheque changes its name to Kino Regina. This sumptuous Art Deco cinema has become the country's film archive. Regular screenings of themed evenings (French films in particular) and great classics from the history of cinema, as well as screenings of silent films (even propaganda films) with live concerts (a real cinema experience!). Eclectic, international programming, with screenings from the four corners of the globe, including Godard and Czech comedians!

Housed in a huge old cable factory, converted in 1992, this independent cultural center is a must-see, with several art schools, three museums (including the Museum of Finnish Photography and the Theater Museum), exhibition galleries, an excellent contemporary dance company that gives regular performances, an improv theater, the French Institute of Finland and a very popular café-restaurant.