Helsinki Railway Station (c) by by Anton Czernous
The Helsinki Central railway station is one of Helsinki’s most iconic landmarks. It was designed by a Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen in 1919.
The exterior of the building is beautifully covered in Finnish granite, which lends an old-world feel to a modern hub of transportation. Two dignified statues grace both sides of the main entrance, each holding a sphere that is illuminated at night. Another one of Helsinki Central railway station’s distinguishing features is its clock tower.
Approximately 200,000 visitors pass through the Helsinki Central railway station each day. Finland’s most-visited building was built in 1909 and opened to the public in 1919. Renovations have taken place occasionally, ensuring the railway station remains both efficient and beautiful. The most recent renovation in 2003 included the addition of a shopping wing and hotel to the main building.
One of Helsinki Central railway station’s more discreet features is a private waiting lounge that was constructed in 1911. This 50-square foot space was originally built for the Emperor of Russia. World War I delayed the official opening of the waiting room to 1919, after it had been used as a temporary military hospital. Today the lounge contains furniture specially designed by Eliel Saarinen and is reserved for the President of Finland and official guests.
The Helsinki Central railway station is conveniently located near many forms of mass transportation. Bus stations are located on both sides of the main building. Many of Helsinki’s tram routes pass by the station and there are two separate bus routes from the station to the Helsinki-Vantaa airport. Travelers can also find the Helsinki Metro Rautatientori station underneath the railway station’s main building.
Helsinki Central railway station on the map
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