Helsinki is one of the easiest capitals in Europe to go running in. It is compact, green, almost flat and surrounded by the sea, with a forest in the middle. Here is what you need to know, whether you are here for a weekend or have just moved to the city.
Why Helsinki is a great running city
Three things make Helsinki special for runners. First, the water: the city centre sits on a peninsula, and a near-continuous chain of shoreline paths runs around it. Within ten minutes of almost any central hotel you can be running beside the sea.
Second, the forest. Keskuspuisto, or Central Park, is a strip of real forest about ten kilometres long that begins a short run from the Olympic Stadium and reaches almost to the city's northern border. It is laced with gravel paths and lit tracks, and it is where many locals do their long runs.
Third, the infrastructure. Helsinki has an extensive network of pedestrian and cycle paths that are separated from traffic, kept in good condition and, on the main routes, cleared of snow in winter. Drivers are generally careful, and the city is safe to run in at any hour.
Where to run
If you only have time for one run, go to the sea. The Kaivopuisto waterfront loop from Market Square is the classic short run, and the South Helsinki Shoreline extends it to a flat, varied 10K. For a quick lap in the centre, the Töölönlahti bay loop starts next to Oodi library and the Central Station.
If you prefer forest, head north into Central Park or out to Paloheinä. For something memorable, take the ferry to the island fortress of Suomenlinna and run its ramparts, or cross the bridge to Seurasaari. Our best running routes guide goes through all of them, and the Find My Run tool picks one for you by distance and style.
When to run: the seasons
Helsinki's seasons are extreme in daylight more than in temperature. In June the sun rises before 4 am and sets close to 11 pm, and it never gets properly dark. Summer temperatures are usually pleasant for running, typically in the mid to high teens Celsius, with occasional warm spells above 25 °C.
From November to February days are short: around six hours of daylight in December. The main paths are lit, and running in the dark quickly becomes normal. Winter temperatures often hover around freezing near the coast, with colder spells well below. Ice is a bigger challenge than cold, which is why locals switch to studded shoes. Our winter running guide has the details.
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are the prime race seasons and often the best months to run: cool, fresh and colourful.
What to wear
The single most useful thing to pack is a light windproof layer. The sea breeze can make the waterfront feel several degrees colder than the forecast. In summer, shorts and a T-shirt are usually enough, but bring a long-sleeve top for evenings. Between October and April, think in layers: a base layer, a wind or thermal top, tights, gloves and a hat or headband. In the dark months add something reflective or a small light. Finns take visibility seriously, and pedestrians often wear reflectors.
Getting around
Public transport is run by HSL and is excellent. Trams cover the centre, the metro runs east to west, and ferries go to Suomenlinna all year. Buy tickets in the HSL app. Many routes start at a tram stop, and our route pages say how to get to each start.
Tap water in Helsinki is some of the best in the world. Drink it, and carry a bottle on longer summer runs, as drinking fountains are not always easy to find.
Running with other people
Helsinki has a friendly running community, and many groups run in English. The free Tokoinranta parkrun is a timed 5K every Saturday morning, and several social run clubs welcome newcomers every week. See our running clubs page for schedules.
If you want a race, the calendar peaks with Helsinki City Run in May, the Helsinki Half Marathon in June and the Helsinki Marathon in August. All upcoming events are listed with links to the official organisers.
Etiquette and practicalities
- Many paths are shared with cyclists, and some are split: pedestrians on one side, bikes on the other. Look for the symbols painted on the path.
- Keep right on busy paths and pass on the left.
- In nature areas, Finland's "everyman's right" lets you move freely, but stay on paths in protected areas and during nesting season.
- Do not run on groomed ski tracks in winter. Skiers will not thank you.
- Finish like a local: a sauna. Public saunas such as Löyly and the Allas Sea Pool are right on the waterfront.
Where to buy gear
Forgot your shoes, or need studded ones for winter? Helsinki has specialist running stores with knowledgeable staff, plus outdoor shops and department stores. See our running stores guide.