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The Suomenlinna Fortress….Uspensky Cathedral….Kauppatori (Market Square & Harbour….Seurasaari Museum….Korkeasaari Zoo….Temppeliaukio Church.…are just some of the 'must see' sights of Helsinki.
Kauppatori (Market Square) is one of the first places to visit. Here you will find not only locals selling their wares in the market (some even direct from their boats), it's also a main departure point for ferries to the various islands. Nearby is Gustav Nystroms Market from where you can buy honey, smoked fish, local cheese and other delicacies. Esplanadi also boasts not only many stalls selling handicraft and local food but also shops featuring the best in Finnish design. 
The Suomenlinna Fortress (UNESCO Heritage Site), is one of the world's largest sea fortresses. Built in the 18th century it's just a 15 minute ride on the ferry from Market Square. The Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and home to the Snow Leopard, Amur Tiger, Siberian Tiger and rare Arctic species such as the Polar Fox and Musk Ox. 
The Seurasaari Open Air Museum boasts historic buildings from all regions of Finland and well worth a visit. The 18th century Kahiluoto manor house and the wooden Karuna church are all part of the 87 buildings that centre around a farmstead (still working using the old methods to tend to livestock and crops). 
The Uspensky Cathedral with its 13 gold cupolas, is Europes largest Orthodox church and dominates one side of the harbour - tantamount to the Russian influence over the years. 
If its beaches and tranquility that you seek, then the islands of Uunisaari and Pihlajasaari are the perfect place to visit - but don't forget to take your beach towel and bathers!!
Panorama Tours has chosen 2 hotels for you to stay in whilst in Helsinki. The 4* Scandic Hotel Continental Helsinki (Mannerheimintie 46) located just 10 minutes walk from the city centre, has tastefully appointed rooms, restaurant, bar and indoor heated pool and sauna. 
For those who like to be at one with nature, there is the 4* Hilton Helsinki Kalastajatorppa Hotel which is located overlooking the Gulf of Finland, just 10 minutes from Helsinki City Centre. The hotel has 230 spacious rooms, 3 restaurants, an indoor pool, 4 saunas and its own private beach. 
If 'Retail Therapy' is on your list of 'must do' items, then its time to visit Stockmann, Sokos, Aarikka Finland, Design Forum and Ril's Shop. In December, the Esplanadi becomes home to the Christmas Market - booths and stalls with their twinkling lights all adding to the festive spirit. 
In Summer, the daylight hours are long and in Winter the daylight hours are short. Nevertheless, (as we say) 'as the sun sets', its time to enjoy and soak up Helsinki's nightlife. Catering for all ages and tastes, you will not be disappointed. Central Helsinki is abound with cafes, bars and restaurants - many of which spill out onto the pavements in summer. The Finlandia Hall is home to the famous Helsinki Philarmonic Orchestra. For something more upbeat try the Arctic Icebar & UNIQ or Ravintola Fennias or visit the Kaarle XII complex with its bars, restaurants and music. 
And if you still have time… Visit Porvoo, the second-oldest town in Finland with its narrow streets lined with craft & antique shops and cafes (in the summer months take the day trip to Porvoo by boat - a magical way to spend the day), or Turku (Finland's former capital) with its medieval castle, market place, cathedral and river harbour. Just 2 hours from Helsinki, it makes a great day trip and during December the famous Christmas Market is well worth a visit. 
4* Scandic Hotel Continental Helsinki
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