Develop tourism and events

Several million domestic and foreign tourists visit Helsinki every year. The City offers support and networking opportunities for businesses involved in tourism. It is important to us that Helsinki is a vibrant, functional and responsible city of tourism and events, offering experiences all year round.

Helsingfors domkyrka och Sofiagatan.
Photo: Jussi Hellsten / Torikorttelit

On this site

Tourism attractiveness and operating environment
The city’s tourism infrastructure, or operating environment, is an important part of the city’s ability to provide services. The areas for development are e.g. destination-level visitor experience, means of transportation and services required.
Tourism sustainability
Helsinki is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable travel destination. Sustainable growth and renewal will become a reality if public and private actors change their practices on a long-term basis.
Smart Tourism
Helsinki aims to be a smart destination and to support and promote the digitalisation of tourism companies, AI expertise, and innovation. A smart destination also provides customers with the smoothest path from dreaming to gaining experiences.
Key Messages for Helsinki Tourism
We are boosting Helsinki’s international appeal through the themes of a happy Helsinki. Consistent communication strengthens the credibility and reliability of Helsinki as a travel destination, both internally and externally.
Tourism networks and projects
Helsinki is actively involved in many Finnish and foreign networks and projects that you can also join. Be sure to check out the Helsingin tekijät network!
DataLokki – Helsinki Destination Insights
DataLokki provides up-to-date status information on tourism and events in Helsinki such as registered overnight stays, number of events, cruises, and air traffic.
Tourism Information
On this page, you can find publications on tourism, such as reports, studies and surveys in pdf format.
Tourism events
Tourism and Destination Management Unit of Business Helsinki organises many events both independently and together with partners and stakeholders.
Organising an event in Helsinki
A vibrant urban culture, complete with events, tourists and restaurants, is a key strategic priority for promoting Helsinki’s vitality and well-being.
Photos: GDS‑Movement, Green Destinations International, Visit Finland.

Helsinki has been working towards sustainability over the long term and ranks amongst the world’s best according to international indices and certifications. The city was awarded Green Destinations GSTC certification in March 2025, which is based on the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s set of criteria, the most stringent in the world, and assesses sustainability from the perspectives of environmental, cultural, social and economic impacts, as well as governance. View the certificate.

Helsinki ranked first in the Global Destination Sustainability Index in consecutive years 2024, 2025 and 2026, meaning that it is rated as the world’s most sustainable travel destination. The index measures the sustainability of travel destinations across four categories based on more than 70 indicators. In 2026, Helsinki was awarded the national Sustainable Travel Finland label and has successfully mobilised local tourism businesses to get involved. STF label .

Development Programme for Helsinki Tourism and Events 2026–2029

The Development Programme for Helsinki Tourism and Events contributes to the implementation of the city strategy and the City of Helsinki's objectives for growth, skills and vitality. The tourism and events sectors have significant growth potential, creating new jobs and strengthening Helsinki’s attractiveness and competitiveness.

The programme aims to strengthen Helsinki’s position as an internationally attractive, sustainable and vibrant tourism and events city where both visitors and residents enjoy a high quality of life.

It has three main strategic objectives:

  1. Accelerate strong year-round growth in tourism and events and extend the average length of stay.
  2. Increase Helsinki’s international attractiveness through the themes of “Happy Helsinki”.
  3. Ensure that the city is a growth-supporting partner and an even more effective tourism and events destination.

Development Programme for Helsinki Tourism and Events 2026–2029 (pdf)

The progress of the Helsinki Tourism and Events Programme is reported annually to the Economic Development Sub-committee of the City Board.

Helsinki Tourism and Events Programme 2022–2026 (pdf)

Helsinki Tourism and Events Programme 2022–2026 Appendix: Measures and indicators (pdf)

Helsinki Tourism and Events Programme annual report 2025 (pdf)

Photo: Aleksi Poutanen

Instructions and support for event organisers

Event notifications and permits
Helsinki as event city
Helsinki as an event partner

City of Helsinki's Tourism Director

Photo: Sakari Röyskö

Nina Vesterinen, Tourism Director
+358 40 635 4508
nina.vesterinen@hel.fi

External resources

MyHelsinki website
Looking for information on where to eat, drink, sleep, enjoy events or to do a bit of shopping in Helsinki? The MyHelsinki website offers plenty of information for visitors.
Helsinki Tourist Information
Both locals and tourists are welcome to the Helsinki Tourist Information! The information staff provides free information and inspiration about the city, main attractions, events, and services.
Contact information of the Tourism and Destination Management unit
The unit’s tasks include promoting tourism in the city and developing the operating environment in a sustainable and intelligent way in cooperation with the tourism ecosystem.

News about tourism and events in Helsinki

  • Tourism
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