5 things to do in the winter or early spring when visiting Aalto University
Iceskating
Eager to try your wings in winter sports? Ice skating is one of the most city-friendly ways of doing so. There are multiple free ice rinks in Helsinki Metropolitan Area so that anyone can enjoy the sport in the proximity of their home. Furthermore, if you need a pair of skates, some of the ice rinks, like Brahenkenttä or Tapiola Ice Garden, allow you to rent them for a reasonable price.
Helsinki Islands
The Helsinki islands are accessible to visitors in the winter and early spring. In the closeness of the beautiful old Eira district in southern Helsinki, the small Uunisaari island and its restaurant call for visitors throughout the day. Seurasaari island is an open-air museum showcasing historical buildings from all over the country. Remember to prepare for the wind!
Sauna and Winter Swimming
The Finnish sauna and winter swimming are a combination that gives you a natural high. There are numerous places in Helsinki to try winter swimming with low thresholds, such as Allas Sea Pool, Löyly and Sompasauna. Entering the cold water is thrilling but rewarding.
Cafe Regatta
Café Regatta is a Helsinki classic that serves delicacies at the seaside, only a thirty-minute walk from the city centre. There even is a saying that you aren’t a real Helsinkian if you haven’t tasted their world-famous fresh cinnamon buns. During winter, you can warm up by the campfire or curl up in a blanket and enjoy a warm drink.
Museums
Sometimes the weather calls for indoor activities. Helsinki Area has plenty of museums presenting both local and international artists. The summer school team favourites would be the versatile Espoo Museum of Modern art, the architecturally noteworthy Amos Rex and the Didrichsen Art Museum which used to be the home of Marie-Louise and Gunnar Didrichsen.
Aalto University Winter School
Join the Aalto University Winter School in January 2025. The application period is open from 1 October to 15 November 2024.
