Ports in Helsinki - Guide for Cruise Visitors

Introduction to Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland, home to around 690,000 residents. When combined with the neighbouring cities of Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen, the Helsinki region has a population of over one million. Vantaa is known for its proximity to Helsinki Airport, while Espoo makes a fascinating and peaceful day trip destination for visitors to Helsinki. Although the Helsinki area consists of four separate cities, moving between them is convenient and straightforward.

Visiting Helsinki by a Cruise Ship

Helsinki has numerous ports, but the Port of Helsinki oversees the majority of them. Most traffic includes scheduled ferry routes, including regular connections to Tallinn, Stockholm, and nearby destinations. Arriving in Helsinki by a scheduled ferry is convenient for travellers from Sweden, Estonia or Germany.

During the summer, many international cruise ships visit Helsinki, typically staying for just a day to allow passengers to explore the city. These ships usually dock at quays, which are distinct but close to the regular ferry terminals. Cruise ships do not typically have dedicated terminal buildings, so passengers often disembark directly onto the docks.

Cruise Ports in Helsinki

Helsinki has multiple quays, operated by the Port of Helsinki, spread across the city. Most are located in central Helsinki or nearby, although one is situated far away. While cruise companies tend to favour more conveniently located ports, schedules and ship sizes also play a role in determining where ships dock.

Reaching the city centre from the port depends on where your ship docks, so it’s essential to identify the exact quay first. Check your travel itinerary to confirm your arrival point. If you’re arriving on an international cruise ship, you’ll most likely dock at the Katajanokka or Hernesaari quays.

Below, we outline the potential locations and advise on getting from the cruise port to the city centre.

Katajanokka at South Harbour

South Harbour is the central port area near the main market square. It features several quays where scheduled ferries and cruise ships dock. Its eastern part is called Katajanokka.

Scheduled Viking Line ferries from Stockholm and Tallinn arrive at Katajanokka, using their dedicated terminal building. Many cruise ships also dock in the area, though some may anchor farther from the terminal building. The quays at Katajanokka are called Katajanokka Quay (EKL) and Quay for Cruisers (ERA).

Katajanokka is in the city centre. You can walk to the Market Square in about 20 minutes. If you prefer public transport, trams 4 and 5 run through Katajanokka. The nearest stop is just a few minutes away, depending on where exactly your ferry docks. Overall, we’d say Katajanokka is one of the best places to arrive by ship in Helsinki. Unfortunately, the biggest cruise ships can’t dock there.

For public transportation, we recommend a day ticket for Zones A and B, which covers the entire city of Helsinki. Consider installing the Bolt app if you prefer to take a taxi from the cruise port to the city centre. You can also take a cab from a taxi rank, though it’s usually more expensive. Another option is to pre-book a ride through Welcome Pickups.

Helsinki Card also includes a public transportation ticket.

On days when cruise ships arrive, some sightseeing buses stop at the Katajanokka cruise area. Starting from the port area is convenient if you plan to tour. Check out the City Sightseeing Tour and the Helsinki Panorama Tour.

Read more about public transportation and taxis in Helsinki.

Western South Harbour (Olympia Terminal)

Olympia Terminal is situated on the western side of South Harbour, across from Katajanokka, in the same vicinity as South Harbour. Tallink ferries from Stockholm dock there, but cruise ships typically do not.

You can walk to the market square in about 20 minutes. Trams 2 and 3 also depart directly from the terminal’s front. Although a taxi rank is available, taking a cab from the queue can be expensive. We recommend using the Bolt app instead. You can also preorder a ride from Welcome Pickups here.

City Sightseeing Tour and Helsinki Panorama Tour have stops in front of the terminal.

Cruise Quays at Hernesaari

If you’re arriving on a large cruise ship, you’ll most likely dock at the Hernesaari or Munkkisaari quays. These are near the West Harbour, where many scheduled ferries arrive, but they’re separated by the harbour basin, making walking between the cruise quays and the West Harbour impractical. Although two quays are named Hernesaari and one is called Munkkisaari, they are all located in the same general area.

The area has three quays. Hernesaari Quay (LHD) is the most convenient, as the hop-on hop-off bus stops there. The other quays are Munkkisaari Quays (LHB and LHC).

A shuttle bus to the city centre may be available, with a fare of around 10 euros.

The Hernesaari area looks more like an industrial zone than a cosy spot. The first impression may not be the best. Although it’s not far from the city centre, walking isn’t ideal as it would take too long. Luckily, getting to the city centre is still relatively easy.

Tram 6 will take you to the city centre, but the closest stop is a 15-minute walk away. You’ll need a ticket for Zones A and B, which covers all of Helsinki. The journey takes about 10 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, use the Bolt app for a more affordable taxi than those at the rank, or pre‑book a ride with Welcome Pickups from the cruise port to the city centre.

There is a public sauna and restaurant, Löyly, nearby. It features a free sightseeing terrace for quick photos of Helsinki.

Helsinki Card also includes a public transportation ticket.

City Sightseeing Tour and Helsinki Panorama Tour stop at the Hernesaari quays. If you’re taking a tour bus, you won’t need a public transportation ticket. A tour is a quick way to start exploring the city, as it stops at the port area.

Hernesaari and Munkkisaari quays lack traditional terminal buildings with comprehensive services.

Terminal 2 at West Harbour

Terminal 2 at West Harbour is just next to the Hernesaari cruise docks. Scheduled ferries from Tallinn and some other locations arrive at this terminal. The difference to Hernesaari dock is that there is a sea between.

Modern Terminal 2 offers excellent connections to Helsinki city centre. There’s a tram stop right in front of the terminal, and the ride to the centre takes just 15 minutes. You’ll need a ticket for Zones A and B. The terminal also has a taxi rank, but app-hailed taxis are more cost-effective. You can also book a ride there with Welcome Pickups.

Vuosaari Harbour

Vuosaari Harbour is far from the city centre, and it’s unlikely that your cruise ship will dock there. However, some scheduled ferries do arrive at this harbour. For example, if you are coming from Tallinn Muuga port.

Travellers at this port usually bring their cars on the ferry, so the distant location isn’t an issue. This port is quite convenient for drivers, as it eliminates the need to navigate Helsinki’s city centre’s complicated streets. Taxis to the city centre are expensive, public transport takes time, and sightseeing buses don’t serve the area. If you’re visiting Helsinki for a day, this isn’t the best place to arrive.

Public Transportation for Helsinki Cruise Visitors

The Helsinki region, particularly the city centre, has excellent public transport. Still, the centre’s compact layout makes walking a practical choice. Trams and the metro offer the most comfortable experience if you prefer to use transit. To plan your journey, use Google Maps or the HSL Route Planner.

If you plan to visit Helsinki’s most iconic sights, you won’t need regular public transport. Buy a ticket for a sightseeing bus—it will take you around the city with ease. Cruise lines also offer their tours, but they tend to be more expensive.

Public transportation is available in Espoo to explore Nuuksio National Park. You’ll need a ticket covering Zones ABC. The one-way trip takes about an hour, making it possible to visit the park during a cruise day. We recommend setting the Haltia Exhibition Centre as your destination in the HSL Route Planner.

Read more about Helsinki’s public transportation and its tickets.

Taxis

We don’t recommend using taxis in Helsinki city centre, as public transport is more convenient and walking is also a great way to get around. However, it’s worth learning how the system works if you prefer a taxi. For more information about taxis in Helsinki, please refer to our dedicated article on taxis in Helsinki.

Keep Safe and Comfortable

Safety

Helsinki is a safe destination. Although violent crime and fraud are rare, they can still occur; therefore, it’s essential to remain vigilant. Pickpockets sometimes target tourists, so keep your belongings secure and close to you.

If you need advice, locals are friendly and will be happy to assist you.

To stay safe, stick to well-populated areas and keep a close eye on your belongings. Be cautious of anyone who approaches you without being prompted. Even though people are friendly, they rarely stop to ask questions, and it’s worth remembering that someone who appears to be a fellow traveller could be a pickpocket.

Weather

Cruise passengers usually visit Helsinki during the summer season. Early April can bring temperatures as low as 5°C, while midsummer typically ranges from 15°C to 32 °C. Although sunny days are standard, rain is also frequent. Be sure to check the weather forecast and bring an umbrella.

If the weather seems bad at the port, opt for public transport and minimise walking.

Bottom Line

Helsinki is an excellent destination for a summer cruise. The weather is typically not too hot, and there’s plenty of daylight. The city centre is compact, making it easy and quick to get around.

A minor drawback is that the Hernesaari quays are far from the centre, and the area isn’t particularly scenic. However, you can quickly reach the city centre from the cruise port with the right transportation options. Many top attractions are in the city centre, so include them in your visit.

Welcome to visit Helsinki!