Whether you’ve got a few hours after the day’s sessions or an extra day to spare, check below for some highlights the best things to see and do nearby while you’re in the area. From scenic parks and ski parks to exciting attractions and local favorites, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your trip. Take a break, unwind, and discover the vibrant experiences Finland has to offer!
Wild Woods and Lakes on Helsinki’s Doorstep. Within easy reach of the Finnish capital, escape into wild natural settings and enjoy typically Finnish scenery, with lovely lakes, green forests and rugged crags. The nearby Finnish Nature Centre Haltia spotlights the best of Finland’s natural treasures from across the country. Arrive by car or public transportation. Suitable for the entire family and tourists. Wheelchair access to the Haukkalampi, Kattila and Haltia areas. Marked trails and nature trails vary from easy to difficult (1.5-17km), 30km of biking trails, 22km of horse-riding trails. Nuuksio has numerous services all year round: campfire sites, cooking shelters, lean-to-shelters, camping sites, dry toilets, rental huts, conference and sauna facilities and a wide range of activities for people of all ages.
https://www.luontoon.fi/en
The Finnish Nature Centre is a sustainable nature and outdoor center and the gate to Nuuksio National Park in Espoo. In Haltia you can get a real experience of the Finnish nature. Haltias’ nature exhibitions introduce the magnificent scenery of Finland’s national parks, as well as nature sites in the nature capital area.
https://haltia.com/en/
Espoo Ciné International Film Festival has established itself as a showcase of contemporary European cinema in Finland. The festival presents some of the most interesting new films, both from established creators and emerging talents. Special attention in the festival’s programme is given to issues of minority representation.
The 36th edition of the Espoo Ciné festival will be held from 22 to 31 August, 2025. The programme will be announced during the summer! The new Crip Ciné Film Festival, focused on disability cinema, took place from 12 to 16 April, 2025.
Sauna is a part of Finnish life and a must-experience for anyone visiting Finland, and an essential part of connecting with local culture if you are planning to make it your home! In Espoo, you can find many unique ways to experience sauna – and with the new extension of the metro to Kivenlahti now open, there are even more possibilities to discover!
Keilaniemi Laguuni in Espoo, Finland, is a floating water sports center offering a range of activities like a giant inflatable water park, wakeboarding, flyboarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can also enjoy seaside saunas, casual dining at Restaurant Blägä, and beautiful sea views. Easily accessible by metro, bike, or car, Laguuni is a popular summer destination for both adventure and relaxation.
Whether staying a couple of hours or weeks in Espoo, you can always find unique sights, attractions, and stories behind them. From modern art exhibitions and the world-known Alvar Aalto architecture over Finnish design and innovations to the beauty of Finnish nature and human well-being.
Restaurant Fat Lizard is a cosy laid back and same time a chic meeting point restaurant just a stone’s throw from Aalto-yliopisto subway station. Believing in honest and impressive food cooked in their kitchen where they have also a genuine wood-fired pizza oven and a real charcoal grill. Best of all, food is served from lunch until late night every single day.
Tietotie 1, 02150
Espoo, Finland
+358 20 1277710
Bistro Ranta is located in a landscape where there is room for thought. In Otaranta, you feel close to the vibrant Aalto University, but it is also conveniently far away. The Bistro invites those for whom living nature is a source of strength and inspiration. Those who want to surrender to be served come to us as guests. Those who already know to expect something masterful. Our location in a place built by masters obliges us to do so.
In our bistro located in the Radisson Blu Hotel, we also serve Super Breakfast in the mornings, and in the summer you can enjoy it on our beautiful terrace.
Located inside Radisson Blu Hotel
Otaranta 2, 02150
Espoo, Finland
+358 300 870020
Konnichiwa means hello in Japanese, and we want each of our customers to feel welcome and special. We offer a diverse and delicious sushi buffet at our restaurant in Espoo.
Our selection includes classic sushi such as maki, gunkan and nigiri with seafood and vegetable fillings, as well as new delicious flavor combinations with which we surprise our customers every day. In addition to the sushi buffet, we also serve fresh and delicious sashimi, Miso soup, and a delicious selection of warm Asian dishes. The buffet also includes a tasty, sweet dessert, as well as coffee and tea.
Otaniementie 12, 02150
Espoo, Finland
+358 45 78738883
Haikaranpesä is a traditional restaurant with a view in Haukilahti, Espoo. Haikaranpesä is a family business in its third generation. It has been a place to dance and enjoy the wonderful Scandinavian buffet delicacies since the turn of the 1960s and 70s. Located in the Haukilahti water tower makes it the highest restaurant in Southern Finland with unforgettable views of the sea. In addition to its popular buffet lunch, Haikaranpesä is known for its monthly theme nights such as Jazz & Dinner and Disco nights.
Haukilahti Water Tower
Hauenkallio 3, 02170
Espoo, Finland
+358 9 4524254
