Stop at Helsinki Central Station

 Helsinki Central Station


    On our journey to Kuopio, we passed through Helsinki Central Station.

Helsinki Central Station stands as a symbol of architectural prowess and efficient transportation in the heart of the Finnish capital. Completed in 1919, this iconic landmark has not only served as a gateway to the city but has also become a meeting point, cultural hub, and a testament to Finland's commitment to innovation.

 
Helsinki Central Station is the main station for commuter and long-distance trains in Helsinki, Finland. The station is used by around 400,000 people a day, including some 200,000 passengers. It is the terminus of all Helsinki's commuter trains.

 

Architecture & design

    Designed by renowned architect Eliel Saarinen, the Helsinki Central Railway Station boasts a blend of various architectural styles, including Art Nouveau and National Romanticism. The distinctive granite exterior, clock tower, and statuesque figures contribute to its unique and timeless charm. The station's grand entrance, adorned with four imposing statues, welcomes travelers and locals alike into its historic embrace.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Helsinki Central Railway Station is celebrated for its functional design. The station's layout prioritizes efficiency, with multiple platforms providing seamless connections to both domestic and international destinations. The underground passages and well-organized ticketing areas enhance the overall travel experience, ensuring a smooth transition for the thousands of passengers passing through daily.

                                                                                                     Figure 1 : Photo of the station facade

Cultural hub

    The station has evolved into a cultural hotspot, hosting various events, exhibitions, and performances. For example, many event already took place in the station, such as live jazz performance, digital photography exhibition, pop-up street food market, etc.  

The large main hall, with its high ceilings and natural light, has become a venue for art installations and public gatherings. Its location in the heart of Helsinki makes it a natural meeting point for both locals and tourists, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere around the station.


                                                                                                                                               Figure 2 : Photo of main station interior

Connectivity & environnement

    In line with Finland's reputation for technological advancement, the Helsinki Central Railway Station is equipped with modern amenities. High-speed Wi-Fi, digital displays, and streamlined ticketing systems cater to the contemporary needs of travelers. The station serves as a central hub for various forms of transportation, including buses and trams, ensuring that connectivity is not limited to rail services alone.

However, efforts have also been made to reduce the environmental impact, with initiatives such as energy-efficient lighting and waste reduction programs. The station's accessibility for cyclists and pedestrians promotes eco-friendly modes of transportation.

 

    Helsinki Central Railway Station is more than just a transportation hub; it's a living testament to Finland's rich architectural heritage, technological prowess, and commitment to sustainability. As a bustling center of activity, it continues to play a vital role in connecting people and cultures while standing as a symbol of Finnish pride and innovation. So, Helsinki station was a must during our visit to the capital. 


Sources

  • https://www.myhelsinki.fi/en/see-and-do/sights/helsinki-central-railway-station
  • https://paarautatieasema.fi/en/


Written by Elise Paris
Pays/territoire : Helsinki, Finlande

Commentaires

Enregistrer un commentaire

Posts les plus consultés de ce blog

Finland tour : Tampere

Image
  Tampere   With a group of friends, I went to Tampere for a weekend. Located about 170 kilometers north of Helsinki, Tampere offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm that's both inviting and accessible.   History of the city Tampere's past is closely tied to its industrial roots. Once a bustling center of factories and mills, the city now preserves its industrial heritage through museums like the Vapriikki Museum. Here, visitors can explore artifacts and exhibits detailing the city's industrial past. Beyond its industrial history, Tampere boasts a thriving cultural scene. The city's theaters, galleries, and cultural centers offer a range of performances and exhibitions, providing insights into its rich cultural tapestry. Tampere's transformation began in the early 19th century with the onset of the Industrial Revolution. The city's numerous rapids along the Tammerkoski River provided abundant hydropower, which was harnessed to drive the m...
Lire la suite

Ice skating in Finland

Image
 Today we're going to discover one of our favorite and best-known activities in Finland: ice skating .  Ice tracks with the town of Kuopio at sunset Ice skating in Finland : Ice skating is very popular in Finland. During the winter (October-April), there are ice rinks in every town. Many Finnish schools even have their own rinks. So it's easy to skate in winter.  You can also skate on frozen lakes. However, the lakes are covered in snow, so machines are needed to remove the snow. In Kuopio, from January to March, there are large circuits maintained on the ice.  When we came to Finland, we bought ice skates for the first week. So every week we go ice-skating on Lake Kuopio.  Kuopio Ice marathon : The town of Kuopio is well known in Finland in winter for hosting the Finland Ice Marathon. It's a race organized every year on Lake Kuopio. This year, it takes place on February 24, 2024. That's why the ice tracks are maintained and open to the public every day.  I...
Lire la suite

Finnish roads

Image
    Finnish roads Despite Finland's harsh winters and snowy roads, the country has very few accidents. Several reasons explain this.  First, Finland spends a lot on roads, ensuring they're well-maintained by clearing snow and seeding the ground with specific gravel to deal with snow and ice. Also, Finnish drivers receive tough training, especially on driving safely in winter. They learn things like keeping a safe distance, driving at the right speed, and handling icy roads.                                                                  Gravel on the ground Moreover, Finland strictly enforces traffic laws and gives big fines for breaking them, which makes drivers follow the rules. They also use advanced technology like road sensors and weather forecasts to give drivers real-time info, helping them drive bette...
Lire la suite