While doing research for my weekend break to the Finnish capital, three churches stood out, making it onto my to-do list. Deserving of the spots, or not? Yes, and no-ish.
Helsinki Cathedral
The Helsinki landmark is beautiful, with a bit of an Eastern European vibe. Very popular with tourists – many who want to be eternalised in front of it. I didn’t go inside, as it didn’t seem worthwhile. The cathedral sits on Senate Square, which was a lot smaller than I thought it to be. Here is also the tourist information office located.
Website: helsingintuomiokirkko.fi
Kamppi Chapel / Chapel of Silence
This place ended up being my favourite. As the name suggests, it is located in the Kamppi part of town. In-between shopping malls. One unusual shape. Cool inside as well. It is small, so not room for many, but not many popped by. Still, enough people stuck their head in, so it never really got quiet. 1 euro for a candle, and postcard.
Website: kampinkappeli.fi
Temppeliaukio Church / Rock Church
Also known as the Church of Rock, the 8 euros (2025) entrance fee was not worth it. Why? Lots of tourists running around taking photos, and talking loudly amongst each other. I might have dawned upon the place, at the same time as a tour group. In addition, staff looked to be preparing for an event, putting out hundreds of “candle lights”. No church feeling. More like a venue party prepping. The interior is cool though. Probably better enjoyed attending an event. The church is in a residential area, outside the most busy part of the city centre. In walking distance.
Website: temppeliaukionkirkko.fi
