Helsinki

Finland’s sauna obsession is strong, and you’ll find countless places around the city to warm up, but Löyly really takes it to the next level – set on the Heksinki waterfront it features three wood-fired saunas, an enormous outdoor swimming pool, and a sophisticated restaurant serving classic Finnish comfort food.

The harbour is also home a Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city – but there’s a twist. One of the gondolas is actually a sauna too, so you can literally indulge in this Finnish tradition in the sky, and then unwind at ground-level with champagne in the private terrace’s hot tub.

The food scene is increasingly trendy in Helsinki. There are multiple restaurants with Michelin stars, serving up concept menus from open kitchens, often using hardcore Nordic ingredients like beetroot, reindeer and cloudberries. If you’re not ready for all of that, the city’s market halls are much more traditional and accessible…

The Old Market Hall sits on the shores of the harbour, with wooden stalls and a homely traditional feel, and Hietalahti Market Hall is over 100 years old, serving comforting classics and dishes from all over the world, from French to Filipino.

Kallio is a hip district in the east of the city, packed with everything from cute cafés to upscale cocktail bars. Head to the Kallion kirkko (Kallio church) for an amazing view all the way downtown to Observatory Hill. Kallio also holds an annual party that aims to reclaim the streets through good food, good music, and good vibes.

Nordic design is known the world over, and a visit to Helsinki’s design district is a must, brimming with innovative architecture, antique shops, showrooms, independent fashion boutiques, restaurants and concept hotels. Start at the Design Museum for context, and then get exploring. This creative neighbourhood also hosts lots of super-cool urban cultural events, from art exhibitions to open-air concerts.

In the winter months Helsinki attracts crowds for its famous Christmas market, which is held in the shadow of the majestic Helsinki Cathedral. You could also visit the glasshouses of the Winter Garden – it’s open all year, but is particularly magical when decorated for the festive season.