Helsinki Central Railway Station
An architectural marvel and bustling transport hub, Helsinki Central Station connects you to Finland and beyond.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical night vibes
Helsinki Central Railway Station
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical night vibes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An architectural marvel and bustling transport hub, Helsinki Central Station connects you to Finland and beyond.
"A stunning building! Helsinki Central Station is not just a train hub, but an architectural masterpiece."
🚊 Seamless Public Transport
Connect easily to metro, trams, and buses for city exploration.
🗺️ Navigating the Station
Signs are clear, but don't hesitate to ask staff if you need help finding your platform.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eliel Saarinen's Masterpiece
Admire the stunning Art Nouveau architecture of this 1919 landmark, a true testament to Finnish design.

Lyhdynkantajat Statues
Main Entrance
Iconic granite statues by Emil Wikströöm guarding the station's grand entrance.
Gateway to the Arctic
Catch the famous Santa Claus Express overnight train to the Arctic Circle from here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate with Ease
Architectural Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚊 Seamless Public Transport
Connect easily to metro, trams, and buses for city exploration.
🗺️ Navigating the Station
Signs are clear, but don't hesitate to ask staff if you need help finding your platform.
📸 Architectural Photo Ops
Capture the station's grandeur, especially the iconic statues.
🧳 Luggage Woes
The beautiful wooden doors can be tricky with luggage; consider alternatives if possible. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🚊 Seamless Public Transport
Connect easily to metro, trams, and buses for city exploration.
🗺️ Navigating the Station
Signs are clear, but don't hesitate to ask staff if you need help finding your platform.
📸 Architectural Photo Ops
Capture the station's grandeur, especially the iconic statues.
🧳 Luggage Woes
The beautiful wooden doors can be tricky with luggage; consider alternatives if possible. [^Review]
❄️ Warm Winter Waiting
Stay warm and comfortable inside while waiting for your train during colder months. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Helsinki Central Station is widely praised as an architectural masterpiece and an efficient transit hub. Visitors love its central location, ease of navigation, and beautiful design, making it a great gateway to the city. Some minor inconveniences due to ongoing renovations and challenging wooden doors are noted, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"What a stunning building! Helsinki Central Station is not just a train hub, but an architectural masterpiece. It's incredibly efficient, easy to navigate, and a perfect gateway to explore the city. Definitely worth admiring even if you're not catching a train."
Matej Motyka
"Beautiful, effective, easy to navigate (even if you only speak English), obviously very central! We arrived in from Tampere and had no issues finding our way out and to our hotel, easy peasy!"
Gordon Mitchell
"Beautiful from the outside but undergoing many renovations that make it very inconvenient and hard for foreign travelers to find any services. When I finally found the VR office, employees ignored me until they finished their personal conversation. The beautiful wooden doors are a major pain when it comes to getting through them with luggage-wish they were automated"
Heather P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The station is centrally located and easily accessible via public transport. Trams and buses stop right outside, and it's a major hub for the Helsinki Metro system. Many visitors arrive directly from Helsinki Airport via train.
Yes, it's a very prominent building in the city center and a major landmark. If you're arriving by tram or bus, it's hard to miss.
Absolutely! The famous Santa Claus Express overnight train departs from Helsinki Central Station, taking you directly to Rovaniemi in Lapland.
You'll find connections to the Helsinki Metro, numerous tram lines, and regional and long-distance trains. It's a comprehensive network for exploring Helsinki and beyond.
While there are parking facilities nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to the station's central location and excellent connectivity. [^Review]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets online through the VR (Finnish Railways) website or app, or at ticket machines and the VR service desk within the station.
The station itself is generally accessible for passengers throughout the day and night, though specific ticket offices and services may have limited hours. Train schedules dictate operational times. [^Review]
For long-distance and overnight trains like the Santa Claus Express, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred seating or sleeping arrangements.
No, there are no entrance fees to enter Helsinki Central Railway Station. It's a public space for travelers and visitors to admire.
Departure boards typically show the train number, destination, departure time, and platform. If you're unsure, platform numbers are usually clearly indicated.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, signage is generally clear and often bilingual (Finnish and Swedish, with English widely used on departure boards and information screens). Staff are usually helpful. [^Review]
You'll find cafes, restaurants, shops, restrooms, and waiting areas. Some areas might be undergoing renovations, which could temporarily affect access to certain services. [^Review]
The station is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. However, ongoing renovations might present temporary challenges, so it's advisable to check for specific accessibility updates if needed. [^Review]
Yes, luggage storage facilities are typically available for travelers who need to store their bags for a few hours or days. [^Review]
Take your time to walk around the main hall, admire the facade, and look for the iconic Lyhdynkantajat statues. The interior design is also noteworthy.
[^Review]📸 📸 Photography
The main facade with the Lyhdynkantajat statues is a must-capture. The grand interior hall also offers excellent photographic opportunities, especially with the natural light.
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the station. However, always be mindful of other travelers and avoid obstructing pathways.
Early mornings or late evenings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the architectural shots. The evening ambiance can be quite cinematic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around transportation hubs for safety and security reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. [^Review]
A wide-angle lens is great for the grand interiors and exteriors, while a standard zoom can capture architectural details. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots, but be mindful of space.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the station is generally safe and accessible, keep an eye on children in busy areas. The impressive architecture and the bustling atmosphere can be exciting for younger travelers. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be spread out, and renovations could temporarily affect access to certain facilities. [^Review]
🚶 Solo Travelers
Don't hesitate to ask for directions if needed; Finns are generally helpful, though perhaps not overly chatty. The station offers a safe and warm environment to wait for trains, and its architectural beauty provides a pleasant backdrop for reflection or planning your next adventure. [^Review]
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early mornings or late evenings for softer light and fewer crowds. The station's cinematic feel, especially at night, is perfect for capturing atmospheric shots. Remember to be respectful of other travelers and avoid blocking pathways while you're composing your shots. [^Review]
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
The station's granite facade, clock tower, and distinctive arched windows are instantly recognizable. Inside, the vast main hall features a high, vaulted ceiling and impressive detailing, creating a sense of grandeur. Even with ongoing renovations, the core architectural elements remain a significant draw for visitors interested in Finnish design and history. [^Review]
Many travelers are struck by the station's beauty, often describing it as more than just a transport hub but an architectural gem. It's a place where functionality meets artistic expression, reflecting the unique aesthetic of early 20th-century Finnish architecture. [^Review]
Navigating and Connectivity
For longer journeys, the station serves as the departure point for regional and long-distance trains across Finland. Notably, it's the starting point for the popular Santa Claus Express overnight train to Rovaniemi in Lapland, a unique experience for many visitors.
While the station is generally well-signed and easy to navigate, some travelers mention that ongoing renovations can sometimes make finding specific services or platforms a bit challenging. However, the overall consensus is that the station is efficient and well-organized, with clear signage and helpful staff available if needed. [^Review]
The Traveler Experience
While the station's architecture is a major highlight, some reviews mention that renovations can occasionally cause inconvenience, particularly with luggage. The large wooden doors, while beautiful, are noted as being difficult to manage with bags. [^Review]
Despite minor inconveniences, the overall sentiment is positive. The station is described as clean, functional, and warm, providing a comfortable waiting area, especially during the colder Finnish winters. It's a place that impresses visitors with its blend of historical significance and modern utility. [^Review]
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