The Helsinki Central Station is famous for the two pairs of statues, called the "Lantern carriers ». /Credits: Jura Synchro

Are you going to Helsinki this weekend for the 2019 Synchro Worlds? Or are you interested in discovering this famous city? Here are for you a few of the highlights selected by the two qualified Finnish synchro teams and by the Organizing Committee! 

1. The Helsinki Cathedral
In the center of Helsinki, it’s easy to just walk around and enjoy nature and architecture. "If the teams have any time to do sightseeing, I would recommend that they visit the Helsinki Cathedral," says Camilla Sundgren, Marigold IceUnity captain. The Helsinki Cathedral is located on Senate Square. This pristine white cathedral is arguably Finland's most iconic building.

2. The Helsinki Central Railway Station
Recommended by Camilla Sundgren also, the Helsinki Central Railway Station is used by approximately 200,000 passengers daily, making it Finland's most-visited building. The Finnish tourism estimated that over 400,000 persons check the time daily when passing from the 48,5m high clock tower.

3. New Helsinki Central Library Oodi
"The new library “Oodi” which is located near the Helsinki Central Railway Station is something even the locals want to visit. It’s also called the living room of Helsinki," continues Camilla Sundgren. "The New Helsinki Central Library Oodi is located at the heart of Helsinki and worth seeing," adds Mila Kajas from the Finnish Figure Skating Association.

4. Allas Sea Pool
Do you need a break? Enjoy Allas Sea Pool. Several saunas, outdoor swimming pools, and café in the city center might be a unique experience in Helsinki.

5. Amos Rex and Kiasma Museums
Amos Rex and Kiasma are both contemporary art museums and located in the very center of Helsinki. They are advised by synchronized skating teams and by the local organization.

For the shopping fans
"There are good shopping possibilities in the Helsinki city center such as Stockmann department store and Kamppi Shopping Center. The old market hall is a very popular destination among the tourists but the Helsinki citizens as well," says Mila Kajas. Galleria Esplanadi is a famous shopping mall. Petra (Helsinki Rockettes): "The central of Helsinki is amazing, we love just to walk around the city. The churches and parks in the center of Helsinki are worth a visit! We also love the cafes in Helsinki!"

What about the weather?
"April is considered early springtime in Helsinki. Visitors are advised to be prepared for all weather - days can be warm, evenings are cool and spring showers are always possible. The competition week started quite cold, but it should get sunnier by the end of the week," adds Mila Kajas.

Culinary delights
Here are a few of the Finnish specialties you need to try this weekend: salmon, reindeer, zander and Baltic herring, Finnish berries (raspberries and cranberries for example). Finnish also like pastry like for example blueberry pie, cinnamon rolls, Karelian, or Pulla, a kind of sweet cardamom roll. In Finland, people also like drinking coffee. There are plenty of coffee houses to relax before or after intense synchro competitions.

Transportation
The Helsinki center is compact and quite easy to get around. Seeing the city center is easiest by tram. If you stay for more than a day may be the best is to buy a multi-day ticket.

Enjoy Helsinki, everyone!