Helsinki - pearl in northern Europe

Having just spent a weekend in Helsinki area in Finland, I feel that I should fly the flag for the town. It is a lovely small-ish town located by the sea, with a fair share of old buildings mixd with more modern ones. There are several art galleries, museums, old markets and lots of cultural events on offer throughout the year.

Obviously, one's experience is rather different in the winter when the temperature is below freezing point and there is lots of snow, compared to summer-time when the average temperature is +25 with lots of sunshine. If you fancy doing some winter sport, January or February are the best times to go over. If you prefer sightseeing, go between June and September.

www.helsinki.fi/en/index.html