The winter of 2019-2020 is remarkably mild. This is certainly the case in the Finnish capital of Helsinki. With bright blue skies, temperatures above zero and lack of snow, you’d never guess it was the end of February. But when the sun sets and the wind blows fiercely, you’re quickly reminded that you are up north and that it’s still winter.

Helsinki is a dignified city. With an abundance of indoor shopping malls, pedestrian-friendly areas and great architecture, there’s something to please everyone. The Finnish language is hard to follow, but thankfully all signs are in Swedish too. This makes it somewhat easier for a Dutchy to understand.

My personal highlights: the bright white facade of Helsinki Cathedral, the granite ‘men’ at the entrance of the main train station, and ’the-church-in-the-rock’.

Don’t forget to reserve a table at a restaurant, or you’ll be standing outside in the cold!