Explore Vantaa’s Rich History and Culture

Vantaa, alongside Helsinki, Espoo, and Kaunianen, forms the Helsinki Metropolitan Area and is the fourth most populous city in Finland. Most visitors will pass through Vantaa due to the presence of the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, Finland’s largest. While Vantaa’s history traces back 7,000 years with its first mention as Helsinge in 1351, it officially became a city in 1974. Today, Vantaa is a vibrant community that continues to grow while maintaining its natural charm.

Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Vantaa

The Vantaa City Art Museum, known as Artsi, offers a unique cultural experience with its focus on graffiti, street art, and performance art. Just a short distance away, the Vantaa City Museum, located in the Old Railway Station Building in Tikkurila, takes visitors on a journey through the region’s history, from ancient times to the modern day. For aviation enthusiasts, the Finnish Aviation Museum is a treasure trove, featuring over two dozen aircraft, both civilian and military, as well as an extensive collection of aviation artifacts, literature, photography, and flight simulators.

The world famous Heureka Science Centre is another highlight, captivating visitors with over 200 interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a science park. This centre is especially geared towards children, encouraging their interest in science through hands-on activities. Modernity in Vantaa is exemplified by the Flamingo Spa & Leisure Centre, Finland’s largest leisure center. Here, visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities, including a waterpark, spa, fitness services, bowling, cinemas, and mini-golf. Adjacent to the Flamingo is Jumbo, the third-largest shopping mall in Finland, providing an excellent shopping experience.

Step Back in Time

For those looking to explore the historical aspects of Vantaa, Sotunki Village offers a glimpse into rural life in southern Finland. The village features sculpture parks, a traditional farmhouse, the Trollberga Tractor & Agricultural Museum, a petting farm, Orkola Museum, Vantaa Nature School, and guided forest hikes. Meanwhile, Helsinge Parish Village, situated on the banks of the Vantaa River, boasts the ancient Church of St. Lawrence, built in the 1460s. The village also includes a local history museum and historic bridges along the King’s Road, one of the most significant routes in Nordic history.

Nature and Outdoor Adventures

Beyond its urban attractions, Vantaa offers numerous parks, untamed woodlands, and nature trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural beauty or enjoy a leisurely hike, Vantaa’s natural landscapes offer something for everyone.

Kuusijärvi is a beloved recreational area offering year-round outdoor activities in a tranquil natural setting. Just a short trip from central Vantaa, it features a clean lake, sandy beaches, and scenic forest trails ideal for hiking and jogging.

Famous for its traditional Finnish smoke saunas, Kuusijärvi provides an authentic experience, especially in winter when visitors can alternate between the sauna and an icy lake dip. In summer, it’s a hotspot for swimming, sunbathing, and paddling. During winter, the area becomes a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Natural and Horticultural Delights

Horticultural enthusiasts will find delight in the serene Viherpaja Garden Centre, which features Japanese Gardens and Cacti Gardens. These green spaces provide a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to appreciate diverse plant species.