A walk around Katajanokka

It’s basically right in the center but is still so different from the rest of Helsinki. Katajanokka, the peninsula in the south west of the city is a great place for a Sunday walk. Especially the northern part is worth a visit.

You might know the area if you ever left to Stockholm with Viking Line. At the most western tip of Katajanokka there is also a ferry leaving to Suomenlinna. From here you have a great view over the small islands in front of Helsinki.

If you continue along the seaside further north east you can see the impressive ice breakers of the Finnish marine. Now they are not in use but in the winter they are important to keep the ship passages in the Gulf of Finland open. Since not many countries have such powerful boats they also help out other countries during the cold time of the year.

After you pass the first sailing boats you get to Katajanokan Casino. These days you can’t gamble there anymore but enjoy good food at the fine dining restaurant.

Next to the casino you find the memorial for the ones that lost their lives clearing the sea from mines after the Second World war.

Head back east now and you will get to the marina where you can see nice sailing boats and also some of the most expensive and biggest yachts in Helsinki.

Now you got a first impression of Katajanokka. But there is still so much more to discover here. You should also visit the Orthodox Church on top of the hill. It’s the biggest in the Nordic countries. Also lots of good cafés and restaurants are just waiting to be discovered.

So take your time to explore. Have a nice Sunday!