When the King of Sweden established Helsinki as a trading port in 1550 he had little idea of the effervescent capital the city would one day become.   About a quarter of Finland’s population live in The World Design City for 2012, and the compact and innovative city is a perfect place for a weekend retreat.
 
Helsinki can be easily roamed on foot, with a number of guided tours available for those not so confident in their navigation skills. The Classic Helsinki Walk stops by the Cathedral, the Church in the Rock and the Houses of Parliament, whilst the Helsinki Bay Walk is a more natural tour around the numerous waterways surrounding the capital.  Both take around two hours and are well worth the effort.
 
To find warmth and comfort in long and dark winter months, the Finish people have cultivated a love for spas and saunas, and for an authentic Finish experience head to Kaurilan Sauna, just a short train ride away. With an archaic and rustic feel, the sauna itself is set inside a wooden cabin and heated by a log fire. Another way of overcoming the winter blues is to witness the dazzling Lux Helsinki festival; an annual light show which illuminates the darkest of nights with lasers, rainbows and colour.
 
There are a number of beautiful restaurants in the city.  The Ravintola Savoy has perhaps the best view of the city with a terrace overlooking Esplanade Park and boasts a selection of quality wines and delicate food presentation.  For those wishing to sample local cuisine, the Ravintola Kuu offers popular delicacies such as reindeer and smoked salmon soup.
 
In terms of places to stay the uniquely designed Scandi Paasi combines vivid décor with comfort and style.   Many rooms have private saunas and they pride themselves on exceptional room service and a lavish breakfast.  Alternatively the Hilton Helsinki Strand is situated next to the metro and provides large comfortable rooms with a sea view and an extensive cuisine.

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