Even when the rhododendron is not blooming the Rhododendron Park (Alppiruusupuisto) in Haaga is a…read moreperfect destination for a nice weekend walk. The park was founded and still functions as a plant breeding experimental site of the University of Helsinki. Simultaneously the eight-hectare area is a park open to the public. The first rhododendrons have been planted here in 1975. Meanwhile several different species grow some of which were created on this site and are internationally well known to handle temperatures of up to -40 degrees. Many paths and duckboards as well as some look-outs make it possible to explore most parts of the park in a comfortable way and are also accessible for wheelchair-users without problems. Have a wonderful walk!

One of the most idyllic parts of Helsinki is the so called Puu-Käpylä, (ie. Wood Käpylä). Lot of…read morebeautiful wooden architecture surrounded with gardens. Take a bus to the start of Pohjolankatu, and just walk that street and look around - and don't forget to try some of the sidestreets too.

Beautiful park in the city center of Helsinki. Great for people watching and also eating ice cream…read morefrom one of the many kiosks. Many benches but they are full at peak times.

Great park to walk thru to get to the center of the city…read more Barely a block wide but about five blocks long, I was dropped off at the west end and walked thru it to the central market area just across from the Havis Amanda fountain. The central walkway is wide and lined with beautiful mature trees. In the center of the park is a statue of Johan Ludwig Runeberg. On my return walk back to the ship there was a musician playing a violin for tips in front of the statue. A beautiful sound with a fabulous setting. Near the east end is the Kappeli restaurant, opened in 1867. Across from the restaurant is a large outdoor stage, disappointed neither was open at the early time I came thru the park. Both looked wonderful. Across from the park on the north side are several shops, cafes and hotels to wander about while near the park. A very clean area to spend the day in.