National Museum of Finland (Suomen Kansallismuseo)

The basics

See church relics, cultural exhibitions, ceiling frescoes, and jewelry during a visit to the National Museum of Finland. Each gallery has a specific theme, such as the Treasure Trove, displaying coins, silver, weaponry, and medals, and an exhibition on the prehistory of Finland, including archaeological finds. The museum is a popular stop during tours of Helsinki, including walking tours and the hop-on, hop-off bus.

Things to know before you go

• The National Museum of Finland is a must-see for history buffs and families seeking educational opportunities.
• In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions featuring everything from photography to glass sculptures.
• The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Guide dogs are welcome.
• Several guided tours are available, including tours for children, such as a treasure hunt–themed tour.

How to get there

The National Museum of Finland is located at Mannerheimintie 34 in Helsinki, a 10-minute walk from the central railway station and the bus terminal at Kamppi. The museum can also be reached by taking tram 7A/7B, 4T, or 10.

When to get there

The museum will be closed for renovation after October 15, 2023. For now, it's open daily from May through August, and closed on Mondays in September and October. Free admission is available on Friday evenings. The most popular time of year to visit Helsinki is during the summer months; plan a visit during the spring or fall shoulder season to miss the crowds.

What to see at the museum

Plan ahead to choose what areas of the museum are of particular interest to you. “A Land and its People” features life in Finland before industrialization, while “The Realm” explores the history of Finland from the 13th to 17th centuries, when it was under Swedish rule. For more modern history, check out "Suomi Finland 1900," which is focused on the 20th century.