20 tips for finding things to do in Vantaa
Vantaa combines nature and urban culture: the science adventures, outdoor areas and extensive shopping facilities of Heureka invite you to experience a living city.
City articles
27.11.2024
Vantaa, Finland's fourth largest city, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Although many people know Vantaa mainly from Helsinki-Vantaa airport, the city has much more to offer. From nature trails and museums to modern shopping centres and entertainment venues, Vantaa has something for everyone.
The Ring Rail provides easy access to many of Vantaa's points of interest. From Aviapolis station, for example, you can easily reach the Jumbo shopping centre and the Flamingo entertainment centre. Vehkala and Vantaankoski stations provide connections to the Petiko outdoor and recreation area.
Explore with us Vantaa's diverse offer and find the most interesting places for you!
The Vantaanjoki River is one of the most important water bodies in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area, offering a wide range of recreational and outdoor activities. There are numerous outdoor trails along the river, suitable for walking, cycling and jogging. The river banks also offer pleasant places to stop for a break, such as picnic shelters and picnic areas, where you can enjoy the scenery and the peace and quiet of nature.
Among anglers, the Vantaanjoki is known as an excellent destination. It is particularly popular for trout and salmon fishing, and fishing permits are available in a number of different areas. In addition, the history and culture of the river is present, with numerous historical sites, such as old mills and bridges, built along the river.
Vantaa has plenty of outdoor areas and parks where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The Kuusijärvi outdoor recreation area has trails and fitness paths at different levels, so you can choose the route that suits you best. During your walk you can admire the beautiful lake scenery, and in summer you can refresh yourself on the beach. There are also smoke saunas available for hire.
The Petiko outdoor area is particularly popular with lovers of outdoor activities, hiking and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. Petiko has a rich diversity of nature, with forests, marshes and small ponds that provide a wonderful setting for observing nature. A wide variety of vegetation and bird species can be seen in the area, enriching the outdoor experience. In winter, Petikko becomes a popular skiing destination with well-maintained ski runs.
The Pitkäkoski outdoor recreation area offers a great opportunity for cycling in a beautiful natural environment. The area is easy to navigate by bicycle, and the routes follow the shores of the Vantaa River. The terrain is mainly flat and suitable for relaxing cycling. Along the routes you can admire the beautiful trees and lush vegetation.
3) Explore Sipoonkorvi National Park
Sipoonkorvi National Park is located in the Vantaa and Sipoo area and offers great opportunities for outdoor activities. The park has several marked trails, suitable for short walks as well as longer hikes. In the area you can enjoy the tranquillity of the forests, rocky terrain and diverse vegetation.
The park also has fireplaces and lodges where you can take a break and enjoy a snack. Sipoonkorpi is easily accessible via the Kuusijärvi outdoor recreation area, so you can combine a visit to both destinations on the same day.
Backas Manor is a historical gem in Vantaa, offering a peaceful setting for a walk. Around the manor you can enjoy the beautiful park landscape and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In the park you can admire old trees and well-kept plantations.
The manor also houses the Backas Restaurant, which offers delicious dining in a historic setting. The area hosts events throughout the year, such as markets and concerts.
Megazone Vantaa offers an exciting laser gaming experience. This futuristic indoor game is suitable for almost any adventurous person, regardless of age and fitness level. The game area is a dimly lit labyrinthine arena illuminated by UV lights. You'll be equipped with a high-tech vest and a harmless laser weapon.
Megazone is located in the Flamingo Entertainment Centre. You can combine laser games with a Prison Island prison adventure for twice the fun. Megazone is perfect for birthday parties, bachelor parties and recreation days. Book your games in advance to secure your place.
Heureka Science Centre is a popular visitor attraction in Tikkurila. It offers a fun and interactive way to explore science and technology. At Heureka you can participate in experiential exhibitions where you can experiment and discover for yourself. The Planetarium offers impressive film screenings that take you on a journey into space. The science centre is open all year round and you can check opening times and ticket prices on the Heureka website.
VM Karting Center is one of the largest indoor karting centres in the Nordic countries and is located close to Helsinki-Vantaa airport. The centre's over 500-metre-long asphalt two-level track offers a varied driving experience with height differences. Electric karting cars are used, which are quiet and environmentally friendly. The track is suitable for both novice and experienced drivers, with sessions catering for junior, beginner and advanced drivers.
The karting centre also offers additional facilities such as sauna, restaurant and meeting rooms, which are suitable for corporate events or group bookings. The VM Karting Center combines the safety of a driving experience with careful planning, making it a versatile and accessible destination for individual visitors and larger groups alike.
Artsi Vantaa Art Museum is located in Myyrmäki, at Paalutori 3. The museum features a rotating exhibition of contemporary art, with a special focus on street, graffiti and performance art. Artsi serves as a learning environment and a platform for discussion of contemporary art phenomena.
The museum also organises events and guided tours. During the summer season, you can take part in free walking tours of street and public art in the Myyrmäki area. A visit to Arts is a great way to discover the diverse world of contemporary art in Vantaa.
The Church of St. Lawrence is the oldest building in Vantaa and the oldest surviving church in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Built in the 15th century, this grey stone church is located in the parish of Helsinki. The church is an important part of Vantaa's history and offers an interesting destination for those interested in both architecture and history.
The church is still an active parish church and a popular wedding church. When you visit, you can admire the medieval features and peaceful atmosphere of the church. The church's surroundings also make for a pleasant walk in a historic setting.
The Vantaa City Museum is located in the old station building in Tikkurila, right next to the railway station. In the museum you can learn about Vantaa's history through a wide range of exhibitions. The collections include artefacts, photographs and archival material that tell the story of the city's development and life in different eras.
The museum's exhibitions change regularly, and admission is always free. The museum also organises events and workshops for adults and children alike. Visiting the museum will give you a deeper insight into Vantaa's past and present.
The Fazer Visitor Centre in Vantaa is a unique experience for confectionery lovers. Here you can learn about the history of Finnish chocolate and confectionery, as well as the present day. On guided tours, you can use all five senses and taste delicious products.
After the tour, you can shop in the Fazer shop, where you will find a wide range of Fazer products and specialities. At the end of your visit, you can enjoy delicious pastries and drinks at Fazer Café. Be sure to book your tickets for the tour in advance.
Located in Tikkurila, Culture Factory Vernissa offers a diverse range of cultural events. You can enjoy theatre performances, music, dance and art exhibitions. Vernissa is also home to many local cultural activities.
Check the current programme on the Vernissa website and find interesting events for your visit. The Cultural Centre is easily accessible thanks to its proximity to Tikkurila station.
The Finnish Aviation Museum is located near Helsinki Airport and offers an interesting overview of the history of aviation. The museum has an extensive collection of aircraft, engines and other aviation-related artefacts.
You can explore the exhibitions on your own or take part in guided tours. The museum also organises various events and theme days. The Aviation Museum is suitable for all ages and is particularly interesting for people interested in aviation.
Kivistö Art Park is a unique outdoor destination in the growing Kivistö district of Vantaa. The park combines modern art and nature, with the works blending into the inspiring environment. The area features a wide range of sculptures and installations by local and international artists.
The art park is perfect for a break from everyday life or an inspiring evening stroll. Good transport connections make Kivistö Art Park easily accessible by public transport and private car. The cafés and restaurants near the park offer the opportunity to enjoy a treat after your art tour. The park is free and open all year round, so you can explore it at a time that suits you.
Vantaa has several agricultural museums, such as the Håkansböle Manor Museum, where you can learn about the agricultural history of the area. The museums exhibit old agricultural machinery, artefacts and buildings that tell the story of life in the past.
A visit to the agricultural museums offers an interesting insight into Vantaa's history and local culture. The museums are often located in beautiful surroundings, so you can combine a visit with outdoor activities.
Myyrmäki Cultural Centre offers a wide range of musical and cultural experiences in Vantaa. You can enjoy a variety of concerts, theatre performances and events all year round at this cultural centre. Both local and international artists perform at the House of Culture.
The facilities are modern and the acoustics are top-notch, ensuring a high-quality listening experience. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or on the spot. Check the website for the current programme and book your seat for your favourite performer.
Vantaa is a city of events and festivals, with plenty going on all year round.
Tikkurila Festival is one of the most important summer festivals in Finland, bringing top artists and festival goers to Vantaa to enjoy music and a great atmosphere. This major concert will be held in the centre of Tikkurila.
Helsinki's Medieval Days offer a fascinating journey back in time to the medieval world. The event will take place in the surroundings of St. Laurence Church and will include medieval music, markets and workshops.
Food lovers will be attracted by the Vantaa Food Festival, where you can enjoy a variety of tasty experiences from local delicacies to international flavours.
Seasonal markets, such as the Tikkurila Christmas Market, bring atmospheric entertainment and unique shopping experiences to the area.
Sport lovers can also enjoy the Vantaa Triathlon or Extreme Run Vantaa, which offer active and entertaining races for both participants and spectators.
Jumbo shopping centre is one of the largest shopping centres in Finland, offering a wide range of shopping and dining options. Here you will find a wide range of shops from fashion to electronics and groceries. While you shop, you can relax in the cafés and restaurants.
Jumbo is conveniently located on Ring III, making it easy to get there by car or public transport. The shopping centre's wide range of products and services makes it an excellent destination for shopping and entertainment.
The Flamingo entertainment centre offers a wide range of activities and relaxation. Here you can spend time alone, with friends or colleagues. The cinema offers entertainment for movie lovers. For the more active, you can try bowling or glow miniature golf.
Restaurants and cafés offer the opportunity to enjoy refreshments and breaks. If you're in need of pampering, the Flamingo also has spa facilities where you can relax with a massage or other treatments.
Flamingo is located in the Jumbo shopping centre, so you can combine shopping and entertainment on the same day. There's enough to keep you busy for several days.
Tikkurila Market is a lively meeting place in the heart of Vantaa, where markets, fairs and other events take place. The stalls offer fresh local produce such as vegetables, berries and handicrafts. In summer, the market is enriched by flower stalls and events that make it a lively urban destination.
There are also cafés and restaurants near the market where you can enjoy a treat while you shop. Thanks to good transport connections, the market is easily accessible, being a short walk from Tikkurila station. Tikkurila Market offers a true local experience in Vantaa.
