On the Scene Helsinki: Locals Talk About the Latest Trends in Their City

I particularly enjoy sitting in cafés and writing in my diary. One of my favorite places is Bar tÿpo in the "House of Text," the Tekstin Talo. This cultural center, housed in an old factory building, has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Several literary agencies and organizations have their offices here and in the neighboring district of Kallio – and the streets around it are teeming with restaurants, clubs, and art galleries. 

In my opinion, there should be many more independent bookshops in Helsinki, but I can also recommend the big chain stores like Rosebud. I like the outlet near the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art. It's a lively place where you can also find reading material in English. The flagship store of Akateeminen Kirjakauppa (Academic Bookstore) on Pohjoisesplanadi in the heart of Helsinki is also worth a visit, especially for its impressive architecture by Alvar Aalto.

Second-Hand Treasures and Finnish Literature Tips

If you're looking for international finds, you should definitely take a look around Helsinki's many fantastic second-hand bookshops. For example in the Arkadia International Bookshop or at Hagelstam, whose fans included the famous American writer Paul Auster.

My favorite Finnish author is Saara Turunen, some of whose novels have been translated into English. She is an extremely perceptive and witty contemporary author, playwright, and director. Her works are a great way to get in the mood for a trip to Finland. Just like the book "Watercolors From a Seaside City" by Jukka Viikilä, which takes the reader back to Helsinki in the early 19th century.

Libraries at the Heart of Helsinki

There are 38 public libraries in Helsinki. The best known is Oodi Central Library, which offers far more than traditional libraries. My tip: be sure to visit "Book Heaven" on the very Instagrammable top floor and enjoy the view with a coffee in your hand.

I can also highly recommend Finland's oldest public library with its beautiful freestanding spiral staircase. The Rikhardinkatu has been housed in a neo-Renaissance building since 1881. Particularly noteworthy are the large collection of art books and changing exhibitions.

I also like the small and very cozy Suomenlinna Library, which is located on the fortress island of the same name just outside the city. The 15-minute crossing from the market square at the south harbor is definitely worth it. However, I am most often found in my "home library" of Töölö, an architectural gem from the 1970s. The reading room is the perfect place to work and enjoy the view of the park outside the window.

About

Laura Friman is a journalist, author, and podcast host from Helsinki. She loves public libraries, cafés, and no-frills sports bars. Instagram: @laurafriman

Stay in Helsinki – Further Tips From the Lufthansa Editorial Team

1. For bookworms: if you are staying in Helsinki for a longer period of time, you should get a free Helmet Library Card. This gives you access to all 38 city libraries in Helsinki (plus those in some neighboring cities) – including lending, e-books, and coworking areas.
2. Experience literature live: instead of "just" browsing through the shelves, it's worth taking a look at the event program. Tekstin Talo and the Arkadia International Bookshop regularly host readings, concerts, and discussion evenings – providing direct access to the city's literary scene.
3. The Tove Jansson audio walk: if you still have energy left in your legs after the bookshops and libraries, this audio walk takes you to places from the life of the Moomin creator – a literary city tour with a focus on Helsinki's history and stories.