Katajanokka is a bustling neighbourhood close to downtown Helsinki, Finland. Technically an island, the district is one of the most exclusive in the capital, with beautiful Uspenski Cathedral dominating the hillside, a busy harbour and local fish markets. Katajanokka is also the embarkation point for several Baltic Cruises.
The main landmark of Katajanokka is Uspenski Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox place of worship dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Set on the hillside of the Katajanokka peninsula, visitors will find views of the city breathtaking. The interior is a treasure trove of antiquities, artwork and frescoes dating back to the 19th century. Also located in this popular maritime district is Wanha Satama, or “Old Harbour” exhibition centre. It hosts an abundance of event space, an à la carte brasserie and catering facilities for up to 3,000 guests, the perfect venue for special events or exhibitions. Visitors who wish to view the Finnish capital from the air should head for SkyWheel Helsinki. With leather seats decorating luxury gondolas, VIP personnel, a champagne bar and terrific views of the cityscape, there is something for all the family to enjoy. The former Helsinki County Prison utilised from 1837 to 2002 is also nestled in this neighbourhood. With its original layout intact, it has been transformed into tourist accommodations with guest room cells, guard’s rooms and a place of worship. Adventurers wishing to explore further afield can hop aboard the Viking Line cruise ship. Several sailings per day operate to both Sweden and Estonia. The Finnish city of Turku on the south coast is also worth a visit. Turku dates to the 13th century and is full of historic landmarks, theatres and art galleries. It is famous for its rock festivals, its popular summer Medieval Market and the Sibelius Museum.
The public transportation network in Finland is exceptional. Visitors arriving by cruise ship into the port of Helsinki will find Katajanokka right on their doorstep. If travelling from other areas of the capital, trams from the city centre take approximately 8 minutes. The nearest stop is Kauppiaankatu which is only 200 metres walk. Energetic travellers who prefer to walk or cycle, the distance is around 2 kilometres from downtown Helsinki.
Until the middle of the 19th century when the rest of Helsinki was embracing stone-built architecture, Katajanokka was still a wooden shanty town. It was redeveloped in the 1980s into a popular, exclusive residential zone and is home to the Finnish coast guard, the maritime police and the icebreaker fleet. The popular landmarks, ferry port and markets continue to attract visitors from all over the world. Whether passing through or staying in Helsinki, this is one area not to be missed.