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The NH Concierge’s Tips
Helsinki, Finland’s capital, boasts many qualities that make it an incredible city to visit. It’s a bustling place, where you’ll discover the city’s rich cultural heritage, but did you know that it is also home to a vibrant art scene? Several art museums in Helsinki that offer visitors the chance to explore works from famous and international artists, as well as the wonders of the museums themselves.
Ateneum was established in 1888, and proudly serves as Finland's national gallery, dedicated to showcasing the country's artistic heritage. Founded by Finnish artists, its mission is to represent the nation's cultural identity through visual arts. Over time, Ateneum has become a premier institution with a collection spanning from the 18th century to contemporary Finnish art.
The permanent collection, 'A Question of Time,' takes visitors on a captivating journey through Finnish artistic history. Akseli Gallen-Kallela, Eero Järnefelt, and Helene Schjerfbeck contribute notable works, representing the evolution of Finnish art from Romanticism to Realism and the modern era. Noteworthy highlights include Gallen-Kallela's "The Aino Myth" series, depicting the Finnish national epic, Kalevala, and Schjerfbeck's self-portraits offering a poignant insight.
Ateneum is easy to get to, with its central location in Helsinki making it accessible by various means of transportation. It’s a short walk from Helsinki Central Railway Station, or you can take the bus.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, inaugurated in 1998 and designed by American architect Steven Holl, is a beacon of contemporary creativity in Helsinki. Nestled in the heart of the city, Kiasma's distinctive architectural form with curved walls is a work of art in itself.
As Finland's premier institution for contemporary art, Kiasma's permanent collection features a diverse array of modern artworks from 27 artists, showcasing the evolution of contemporary Finnish art. From multimedia installations to avant-garde sculptures, Kiasma provides a dynamic platform for both established and emerging artists. The ever-changing exhibitions ensure each visit to Kiasma is a unique experience, offering fresh perspectives on the latest trends in the art world.
Conveniently located in the city centre, Kiasma is easily accessible on foot or by public transport, making it a focal point for art enthusiasts exploring Helsinki's vibrant cultural scene. If you want to visit it, take a look at our hotel NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa, which is 5 minutes walk to this museum.
The Sinebrychoff Art Museum, housed in a charming 19th-century building, invites visitors to step back in time. Established as a testament to Finnish art and culture, this museum is a hidden gem with a rich history. It has become a sanctuary for European art enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience in the heart of Helsinki and is a highlight of art museums in Helsinki.
Walking through the elegant rooms of the Sinebrychoff Art Museum, visitors are treated to an extensive collection of European art, including works by Old Masters. The museum's atmosphere resonates with the cultural heritage embedded in each artwork. From classical masterpieces to nuanced expressions, the collection offers a captivating journey through artistic evolution.
Located in the heart of Helsinki, the Sinebrychoff Art Museum is easily accessible by public transport or a leisurely walk.
The Design Museum in Helsinki, a haven for Finnish design enthusiasts, offers a compelling narrative that captures the nation's innovative spirit. Established as a testament to the evolution of design, the museum showcases iconic furniture, technological innovations, and artistic expressions that have defined Finland's design landscape.
From iconic furniture pieces to ground-breaking technological advancements, the museum's permanent collection unveils the intricacies of Finnish design over the years. Featuring more than 75,000 objects, 45,000 drawings, and 125,000 images, you’ll also get to see collections from the Arabia Museum, Iittala Glass Museum, Nuutajärvi Glass Museum and Hackman-Sorsakoski.
Conveniently located in the city’s design district, the Design Museum is easily accessible by foot from the city centre or by public transportation.
HAM - Helsinki Art Museum, is a hub for contemporary and modern Finnish art, and has played a pivotal role in shaping the city's cultural landscape. Established to celebrate the diversity of artistic expressions, it’s one of the leading museums in Helsinki to showcase talented artists from past and present.
HAM's permanent collection features more than 10,000 works of art, a collection it says belongs to ‘all residents of Helsinki,’ From thought-provoking installations to multimedia presentations, the museum captures the essence of the modern artistic scene in Helsinki. Highlights include donated artworks from Leonard and Katarina Bäcksbacka, including Tove Jansson’s ‘Before the Masquerade.’
Located in Kamppi, HAM is centrally positioned and easily reachable by bus or tram, making it a convenient stop for art enthusiasts.
The Didrichsen Art Museum is one of the best art museums in Helsinki. It is nestled on the seashore and is a testament to the harmonious blend of art and nature. Once a private residence, the museum now stands as a serene space, inviting visitors to explore Nordic modernism and contemporary art.
The museum's intimate setting provides a tranquil backdrop to explore Nordic modernism and contemporary art. The collection spans genres and periods, offering a curated selection that reflects the museum's dedication to preserving and showcasing artistic legacies. The sculpture park outside the museum is a highlight you won’t want to miss.
The Didrichsen Art Museum is in a fantastic location easily accessible by bus or a scenic walk, providing a serene retreat for art enthusiasts. If you can, ride a bike to the museum for the best and most eco-friendly way to get there.
The Gallen-Kallela Museum, located at the former residence of the iconic Finnish painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela, is a tribute to the artist's life and works. Established in Espoo, the museum offers a unique perspective on Finnish art history through one of its most famous artists.
The permanent collection provides insight into the cultural and artistic influences that shaped Gallen-Kallela's iconic contributions to Finnish art. These include his most famous works, ‘The Defence of the Sampo’, ‘Lemminkäinen's Mother’, ‘Joukahainen's Revenge’ and ‘Kullervo's Curse.’
Located in Espoo, the Gallen-Kallela Museum is easily reachable by tram or bus. There’s a short walk through Munkinpuisto Park to enjoy as you arrive at the museum.
Studio Aalto, a testament to the architectural brilliance of Alvar Aalto, invites visitors to explore the iconic architect's life and work. The studio stands as a tribute to Aalto's innovative approach to design and his lasting impact on Finnish architecture. It’s a favourite amongst museums in Helsinki.
The museum provides an intimate setting to explore Aalto's architectural legacy. From original sketches to prototypes, the permanent collection captures the essence of Aalto's creative process and his contributions to modern design. You’ll gain insights into Aalto's creative process, from concept to completion, through a carefully curated collection.
You’ll find Studio Aalto in the Töölö district, Studio Aalto is easily accessible by tram or a pleasant walk from the city centre, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Amos Rex, a fusion of contemporary art and underground aesthetics, is a cultural hotspot in Helsinki. One of the quirkiest art museums in Helsinki, it opened in 2018, and redefines the city's art scene with its innovative exhibitions and immersive artistic experiences.
Explore the mesmerizing world of contemporary art at Amos Rex through its incredible permanent collection. The Konstsamfundet collection is one of the largest in Finland, home to over 7,000 works of art. You will also get to explore furniture and other artefacts belonging to Amos Anderson, which also includes many works of art.
Amos Rex is easy to find, and is just a short walk from the central railway station, making it a convenient addition to your art tour of Helsinki.
Villa Gyllenberg is an art museum set in a picturesque garden, and says it offers ‘meaningful experiences of beauty, knowledge and mindful presence’. This serene retreat, located slightly removed from the city centre, offers a unique blend of international art in a tranquil setting.
The museum’s curated collection features international art in a beautiful environment. From classical masterpieces to contemporary works, the museum provides a peaceful retreat for art enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of nature and culture. You will find paintings, sculptures and more, with most of the collection on permanent display. Isaac Wacklin’s ‘Portrait of a Man’ is one of the oldest paintings, dating back to 1756. There are also more than 40 works of Helene Schjerfbeck to feast your eyes on. You will even find works by Salvador Dalí and many other international artists.
Villa Gyllenberg is easily reachable by bus, bike or on foot – a stunning journey along Helsinki’s coastal lines.
Exploring art museums in Helsinki provides a little something for everyone. From timeless masterpieces at the Ateneum to the more modern offerings of Amos Rex, all art lovers will find something to enjoy. Making Helsinki’s art museums a part of your trip will help you get to know the history and culture of the city a little better, helping you fall deeper in love with the Finnish capital.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during your Helsinki trip, then take a look at our hotels in Helsinki. Our charming hotels are a great choice to have as your base, so that you can return to comfort and style.
NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa is located in the heart of Helsinki. An ideal base for both leisure and business guests, the hotel sits in close proximity to top attractions like Helsinki Market Square and the Finnish National Theater, as well as major shopping areas and top restaurants. Plus, the hotel is also close to several transportation hubs, including the historical Central Station. This makes it easy for guests to access trams, buses and trains to explore other parts of the city or take day trips to nearby destinations.
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