Kiasma (Contemporary Art Museum)
This stunning building, built by award-winning architect Steven Holl, is a sculpture in itself. The museum showcases the best in Finnish and international contemporary art since the 1960s, with about 4000 pieces on display at any one time. It has a designer cafe with great coffee and delicious food, there is also an excellent bookshop.
Mannerheiminaukio 2
Tel: (09) 1733 6500. Fax: (09) 1733 6503.
Website: www.kiasma.fi
Transport: Tram 3B, 3T, 4, 7A or 7B.
Opening hours: Tues 0900-1700 and Wed-Sun 1000-22000.
Admission: FIM25 (concessions available).
Taideteolisuusmuseo (Museum of Art and Design)
This fascinating museum tracks the history of Finnish design and art, showcasing the works of Kaj Franck, Timo Sarpaneva, Alvar and Aino Aalto and others. It also features special events throughout the year, a cafe with chairs by the legendary designer Yrjo Kukkapuro and a shop with local crafts.
Korkeavuorenkatu 23
Tel: (09) 622 0540. Fax (09) 6220 5455.
E-mail: info@designmuseum.fi
Transport: Tram 10; or bus 17.
Opening hours: Daily in summer 1100-1800; winter Tues and Thurs-Sun 1100-1800, Wed 1100-2000.
Admission: FIM40 (concessions available).
Mannerheim Museo
This fascinating museum was the home of the much-celebrated C G E Mannerheim. Born in 1867, he served for over 30 years in the Russian Imperial Army, leading Finland to independence in a bloody civil war that saw 30,000 Finns killed in 108 days. Mannerheim served as a Commander-in-Chief, a Regent and as President.
Kalliolinnantie 14, Kaivopuisto Park
Tel: (09) 635 443. Fax: (09) 636 736.
Transport: Tram 3B or 3T.
Opening hours: Fri-Sun 1100-1600.
Admission: FIM40 (includes mandatory guided tour in one of six languages).
National Museum of Finland
This museum contains rich archaeological and ethnographic collections depicting Finnish life from prehistory to the present day. Some of the most interesting exhibits are those on the culture of the Sami people of Lapland.
Mannerheimintie 34
Tel: (09) 40 501. Fax: (09) 405 0400
E-mail: kansallismuseo@nba.fi
Website: www.nba.fi
Transport: Tram 4, 7B, 7A or 10
Opening hours: Tues-Wed 1100-2000, Thur-Sun 1100-1800.
Admission: FIM25 adults (concessions available)
