Helsinki
Helsinki: where Nordic nature meets design, culture and serenity.
Why visit Helsinki?
Helsinki is a city where nature, culture, and design converge in a uniquely balanced way. Surrounded by the sea and over 300 islands, it offers peaceful escapes just minutes from the urban centre. The city’s architecture blends neoclassical charm with bold modernism, reflecting its creative spirit. Helsinki’s rich cultural life, from traditional markets to contemporary art, is shaped by a strong sense of community and sustainability. Whether enjoying a public sauna, exploring local food or walking through its green spaces, visitors experience a calm yet dynamic atmosphere that reflects the essence of modern Nordic living.
Sustainability
Helsinki is committed to becoming one of the world’s most sustainable destinations, placing environmental responsibility, social inclusiveness and resident well-being at the heart of its tourism strategy. The city actively pursues the Sustainable Travel Finland label and aims for top ranking in the Global Destination Sustainability Index, with plans to achieve GSTC certification through Green Destinations. Efforts include carbon neutrality goals, smart infrastructure and responsible event planning. Helsinki also invests in workforce sustainability and safety to ensure long-term viability. Recognised as the European Capital of Smart Tourism in 2019, the city continues to lead with innovative, community-centred solutions.
Sustainability Recognitions
Helsinki achieved the Green Destinations Certification in 2025 for its full compliance with the Green Destinations Standard for sustainable destinations.
- Helsinki won the European Capital of Smart Tourism award in 2019, presented by the European Commission.
- Helsinki signed the Glasgow Declaration in 2022.
- In addition, Helsinki is committed to two UNWTO declarations: the ‘Lisbon Declaration on Cities for all: building cities for citizens and visitors’, and the Nur-Sultan Declaration on ‘Smart Cities, Smart Destinations’.
- Helsinki is part of the Sustainable Travel Finland programme and the Global Destination Sustainability index.
- The City of Helsinki has multiple committments, signatures and awards. Helsinki has declared a climate emergency, was second in the EU Access City Awards and third in the EU European Capitals of Inclusion and Diversity Awards, just to name but a few.
Want to learn more about this destination?
Visit their official website for more details on the destination’s sustainability efforts and travel inspiration!
Important Notice: Awards, seals, recognitions, and competition results presented on this website do not constitute certification unless explicitly stated as “GSTC-certified against Green Destinations Standard” following independent third-party conformity assessment.
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We are a multicultural, creative, and dedicated team working to advance evidence-based, responsible destination management and lower-impact travel. Join us in our fight against the climate crisis, single-use plastics, and over-tourism!
