Just half an hour away from Helsinki you will find a city that has cultural treasures and magical images of nature. Sea lovers will love the city and hiking enthusiasts will not stop exploring its every corner. With its five distinct local centers it has succeeded in creating a city that will fascinate the traveler. The islands that you can visit by ferry, the vast natural beauties and its rich historical heritage create a combination that you will hardly find in another city.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +358
Nearest airports from city center: Helsinki Airport (23km), Tallinn Airport (305km, 3 hours by ferry), Turku Airport (147km), Tampere Airport (180km), Kuopio Airport (418km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** NUKKSIO NATIONAL PARK (Nuuksiontie 84, 02820 Espoo)
It is one of the most beautiful and most popular parks in the country. The large and small lakes, the swamps, the rocks, the forest and the unique natural landscape will impress you.
*** ESPOO MUSEUM OF MODERN ART (Ahertajantie 5, 02070 Espoo)
Established in 2002, it hosts high-quality international art exhibitions in an impressive building.
*** THE GALLEN-KALLELA MUSEUM (Gallen-Kallelan tie 27, 02600 Espoo)
Opened in 1961, it presents the life and art of the artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1865 – 1931) with important exhibits.
*** ESPOO CATHEDRAL (Kirkkopuisto 5, 02770 Espoo)
It is the oldest building in the city, dating from 1480 and built of gray granite. In the medieval church you will find many paintings and an impressive organ. Many times he has hosted concerts.
*** GLIMS FARMSTEAD MUSEUM (Glimsintie 1, 02740 Espoo)
In a former farm that dates back to the 1500s, you will find a museum that organizes exhibitions and events such as craft demonstrations, music and theater performances.
*** WEE GEE EXHIBITION CENTRE (Ahertajantie 5, 02100 Espoo)
It is in the former Weilin&Göös printing house designed by Aarno Ruusuvuori (1925–1992) and in addition to EMMA, it has a permanent exhibition presenting the life, working methods and characters of the beloved Finnish illustrator Mauri Kunnas.
*** ESPOO CAR MUSEUM (Bodomintie 35, 02740 Espoo)
Visit one of the oldest vehicle museums in Finland and see over 100 cars and 20 motorcycles.
*** ESPOO CITY MUSEUM (Naavakalliontie 4, 02120 Espoo)
In a beautiful space, see the History of the city, starting from prehistoric times to the present day. It is located in the former Weilin & Göös printing works in Tapiola.
*** HALTIA – THE FINNISH NATURE CENTRE (Nuuksiontie 84, 02820 Espoo)
In the wooden exhibition center you will have the opportunity for outdoor activities and many adventures.
*** PENTALA ARCHIPELAGO MUSEUM (Pentala, 02380 Espoo)
It is a separate museum about the History of Pentala Island and the way of life of the inhabitants. Take a tour of the grounds and you will be inundated with images.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Stora Herrö Island is worth a visit if you have time.
*** Espoo Cultural Center is a good choice to spend your time.
*** We would recommend you to visit the Villa Museum – VIlla Rulludd.
*** The Finnish Museum of Horology deserves your attention.
*** The Helina Rautavaara Museum is of special interest, being the only ethnographic museum with its own space in Finland.
FOOD AND DRINK
In Espoo you can eat healthy and well. It is a city with excellent restaurants and of course has many similarities with Finnish cuisine. Order Kaalikääryleet (Cabbage Rolls), Poronkäristys, Karjalanpiirakka and Mustikkapiirakka pies among others, while don’t forget to eat Lohikeitto which is salmon soup. We would also recommend that you give arctic forest berries a try. Accompany your food with beer or wine.
WHERE TO STAY
Espoo offers many hotels and apartments for your stay in the city center and a distance of 10km from the center.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** The Sello Shopping Center is one of the most important points for your shopping.
*** Kauppakeskus Suuris and Kiinteistö Oy Espoon Retail Park Glomson deserve your attention for your shopping.
*** Entresse Shopping Center is also a place to do your shopping.
*** Serena Water Park is an ideal place to have fun with your children.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot, by bike, by bus or by metro.
CITIES NEAR ESPOO
Major cities close to Espoo are Helsinki (21km), Vantaa (28km), Tallinn (105km, 3 hours by ferry), Lahti (117km), Turku (145km), Tampere (180km), Saint Petersburg (402km), Riga (414km).
