Helsinki is often almost damned by faint praise; this is a pity because it ranks with many people alongside other Scandinavian capitals. Its geography is such that you can walk and find the sea in practically any direction.
If you should have a short time limit in Helsinki, go to the City Tourist Office [there'sa national one as well nearby] and get the booklet on the 3T tram route. This enables you to see mny of the sights for minimal cost. However you should try to see the famous Sibelius monument and the beautiful stretch of coast beyond it, where the President's official residence is sited.
The area of the embassies and the headland nearby is another must-see and it would be a pity to miss the Lutheran and Orthodox cathedrals. It may sound odd but enen if you have not arrived by train, be sure to see the perfect art deco station.
Stockman's department store is massive - even though its excellent book shop is a short distance away. [edit text][editors]
