Helsinki/Northern suburbs

Helsinki's northern suburbs are the northernmost part of Helsinki and form the continuum between Vantaa and more central parts of Helsinki. Here, this is defined as northwest of motorway 4 and north of Käpylä, Hakamäentie and Haaga roundabout; in other words north of the tram line termini. Like much of the peripheral Capital Region it's dominated by apartment buildings, industrial areas and a couple of malls but no major attractions are located here. Still, if you're a fan of outdoor activities like running or biking you might be interested in Helsinki's own "Central Park".

Get in
You can get in from elsewhere in Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa by local trains and local buses. See Journey Planner or Google Maps for routes and schedules. One notable bus route is the 550, known as Jokeri, a bus rapid transit (BRT) line. As of 2023, it was replaced by a light rail line, Raide-Jokeri (tram line 15).

If coming by intercity train from the north or east and are going to somewhere in northeastern Helsinki, get off in Tikkurila and take a local train to your destination. Also, the trains from the  along the Ring Line stops at many suburbs. One of the most significant traffic points in northern Helsinki,, is located along the railway line between the center of Helsinki and Tikkurila, in the immediate vicinity of many commercial services. Helsinki's general aviation airport Malmi is located in northern Helsinki.

Roads leading north from Helsinki, i.e. highways and freeways 120, 3, 130, 45 and 4 go through the northern suburbs. The first ring road (Kehä I), numbered 101, is the main east-western road in northern Helsinki.

Do




Shopping malls
Northern Helsinki has some large and mid-sized shopping malls with dozens of different shops and places to eat and drink.



In addition to these, many districts have smaller "shopping malls" usually consisting of a supermarket, a local pub/restaurant or two, perhaps a barber shop and a pharmacy and some other business.

Eat
The shopping centres in the district usually have a few cafés and restaurants where you can have a budget or mid-range meal during the day. In the evening you don't have to travel far to find a fast food joint or a Chinese or Middle Eastern restaurant. Self-catering is also an option.



Drink
Most suburbs have a pub or two. If you want something fancier, head to central Helsinki, that's what the locals do.



Sleep
Northern Helsinki is likely the least touristy part of the city but does have a couple of hotels, moreover Airbnb accommodation may be available if you wish to stay overnight here. For a bigger selection of official hotels, head to another district or to Vantaa.



Stay safe


In emergencies,. This includes social services, although for non-urgent matters you could contact the social services directly.

Go next

 * Helsinki's eastern suburbs
 * Vantaa