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Helsinki
Historic Helsinki lives
on in the elegant neoclassical centre and in the robust island fortifications
of Suomenlinna,
which is one of the largest fortresses in the world. This 17th century
naval fort is on UNESCO's World Heritage list, and in 1998, it celebrated
its 250th anniversary. The city's cultural life finds expression in the
many museums, the
opera house, Finlandia Hall, and the
Tennispalatsi and Lasipalatsi buildings. Modern architecture is represented
by the "Rock Church" and Kiasma,
the Museum of Contemporary Art. Helsinki presents a fascinating kaleidoscope
of cultural, sporting and outdoor events. In addition, Helsinki was one
of the European Cultural
Capitals in 2000, the same year as the city celebrated its 450th anniversary.
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Espoo
Espoo is best known for the
garden city of Tapiola. From there it is no distance to Tarvaspää,
the studio home of Finland's best-loved painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela.
As an antidote to busy town life, there is the serenity of Finland's southernmost
wilderness area. Just 30 minutes from the centre of the capital, Nuuksio
National Park, offers nature lovers and hikers unspoiled forests,
beautiful lakes and rocky escarpments to explore. In Espoo, you can also
visit Serena Leisure Centre
and Waterpark, a wonderful leisure experience for the whole family;
this tropically-warm water park is the largest of its kind in Europe.
You can find more information about tourism from here.
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Vantaa
Helsinki-Vantaa airport,
Finland's main international airport, is located in Vantaa,
just 30 minutes by bus from downtown Helsinki. Vantaa is also the proud
host of Heureka,
ranked among the best science centres in the world. Saint
Lawrence Church and Sotunki
village are worth a visit, too.
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