Helsinki Central Station

Helsinki Central Station is not merely a key transport hub for the capital, but also an outstanding architectural monument in the National Romantic style. The building, designed by Eliel Saarinen, is world-renowned for its massive granite figures of the "Stone Men" guarding the main entrance. The station is located in the very heart of the city, providing tourists with immediate access to shops, hotels, and landmarks.

It is important for passengers to note that navigation here is intuitive. The main hall leads to 19 platforms: tracks 1–4 serve the eastern direction, while tracks 5–19 serve other routes, including trains to the airport. The Rautatientori metro station is located on the underground level, which can be reached via escalator directly from the building, making transfers maximally fast and comfortable.

• Official Website: vr.fi (Finnish Railways)
• Information Phone: +358 600 41 900 (VR premium line)
• Address: Kaivokatu 1, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
• Opening Hours: The station building is open daily from 05:00 to 02:00 (schedules may vary on holidays)
• Luggage Storage: Located on the basement level, operating during station opening hours
• Accessibility: Assistance service for passengers with reduced mobility (book 48 hours in advance), barrier-free access to platforms

Getting to Helsinki Central Station is very simple, as it serves as the heart of the transport system of the capital. Circular commuter trains on lines I and P run from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport; the journey takes about 30 minutes, and the trains arrive directly at the station.

From other parts of the city, it is most convenient to arrive by metro to Rautatientori station, which is connected to the railway station by an underpass. Additionally, popular trams No. 3, 6, 7, and 9 stop right at the main entrance. If you are in the city center, for example near the Kamppi Shopping Centre, you can reach it on foot in just 5–10 minutes.

The station offers a full range of services for passenger convenience. The halls are equipped with green ticket vending machines and staffed counters. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the area, however, finding a free power outlet can be challenging, so it is better to charge your gadgets in advance.

The basement level houses automatic luggage lockers of various sizes and paid restrooms. The complex is fully adapted for citizens with reduced mobility: there are elevators, ramps, and special waiting areas. Currency exchange points, ATMs, and a pharmacy also operate here.

It is impossible to stay hungry at the station: the choice is vast. For a quick snack, the R-kioski stalls with fresh pastries and coffee are ideal. If you wish to dine in a unique atmosphere, visit Burger King, located in the former waiting hall with high ceilings and historical frescoes — it is an interesting experience combining fast food and art.

For a more relaxed break, you can choose Robert's Coffee cafe or buy ready-made food at the supermarket on the underground level. The average check for a snack will be 8–12 Euros. The adjacent Citycenter shopping mall also features numerous restaurants offering local and Asian cuisine.

The history of the current building began in 1904 when architect Eliel Saarinen won the competition for the new station project. Originally conceived in the National Romantic style, the design was revised towards a stricter aesthetic and opened its doors to passengers in 1919.

Over the past century, the station has undergone several renovations, including a major update in the 2000s when the platforms were covered with a modern glass roof. Today, this building is recognized as one of the most beautiful stations in the world and is protected as an important cultural monument of Finland.

It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before departure to find the correct track without rushing. There are no turnstiles when accessing the platforms, but tickets are strictly checked by conductors on the train, and fines for traveling without a ticket are quite substantial.

Please be attentive to your belongings during peak hours. Note that from 02:00 to 05:00, the station closes for a technical break, and staying inside is not possible. In winter, floors in the underpasses can be slippery from snow, so choose comfortable footwear.