Following the decision taken by the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID) last November, Helsinki will be the World Design Capital in 2012.
The design is a factor rooted in urban style of the Finnish capital and is present in daily life of the citizens of this city, from household furniture and items that represent the ancient traditions of Finnish design to modern, urban solutions contemporary interiors.
In 2012 therefore, Helsinki will include a wide range of events and projects related to design and representations. This means that the attractiveness of the city and will be multiplied, if necessary, to even more visitors.
While waiting for new designs and new representations, it is best to visit and see the most emblematic buildings of the city that are already part of the urban landscape of the Finnish capital.
First, the Lutheran Cathedral is a true symbol of the city. Each year it receives over 350,000 visitors who come to this house of worship to see his majesty. On the other hand, the Uspensky Cathedral is the biggest Orthodox cathedral in Western Europe.
For a more modern feel, you are advised to visit the Olympic Stadium Tower, which was built for the 1952 Olympics, where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city. Also in a contemporary style and groundbreaking, you can see the Finlandia Hall, a concert hall and venue for conferences noted for its asymmetry and the contrast between the marble balconies and the cobalt blue walls inside.
If you are looking for a medieval fortress in Helsinki find Suomenlinna, a fortress built on six islands that form part of a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Built as a protection against the former Russian Empire, is now a major tourist attraction.
For a touch more commercial, it is best to visit Stockmann. It is large shopping centers located in downtown Helsinki and within probably finds everything from Finnish sweets to the most recognizable fashion brands globally.
You see that Helsinki has something to offer everyone, because in addition to its design and architecture with beautiful parks, good restaurants, very nice port … is ideal for a relaxing holiday in a unique environment that is not indifferent to anyone.
However, a trip of this type can be a major expense, so it is advisable to save at maximum detail. The accommodation, for example, tends to be fairly expensive so it is best to stay in a hostel in Helsinki that provides services and quality accommodation at reasonable prices.