Esplanadi Park
For me, the beautiful park that sits between Pohjoisespalnadi (North Esplanade Street) and Etelaesplanadi (South Esplanade Street) is the heart of Helsinki. It the first place I head for when I arrive in the city.
It runs from the Swedish theatre to Kauppatori (Market Square) by the sea. The park is lined on either side with shops, restaurants and cafes, and even though the streets beside it are busy, it is a delightful place to sit or wander.
The park was opened in 1812 and immediately became a favourite place for people to promenade and be seen. On a spring or summer day it is filled with people enjoying the warm sunshine. I would love to be there in mid December to see the Christmas markets.
a sunny day in the park
spring flowers in the park
the statue of Johan Ludwig Runeberg by his son Walter
a different angle
a closer look
the poet is popular with seagulls
the food is good at Kappeli restaurant
Art Nouveau style
springtime
Eino Leino in the park
the poet standing tall
the little kiosk from 1893
2 pretty girls
take time to have a coffee
the coffee is good
having fun
late autumn at Kappeli
not so busy when it is cold
Kappeli at night
Be sure to spend some time in Esplanadi Park – known as Espa by the locals.
Beautiful Helsinki 
Kappelli looks lovely. Is there a lot of Art Nouveau in Helsinki?
Helsinki is full of absolutely gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings, all with a Nordic twist. I’ll be showing you lots of them.
Looks very nice indeed….
Helsinki is very beautiful. It is a great place to visit.
Those two seagulls do look quite content up there… 😉
The poor man always has seagulls on his head!
what is these plants at Kappeli restaurant picture, at the moment these flowers bloom wery nice.
[…] there I walk through the park along Esplanadi to Market Square beside the harbour. The park is lovely in any […]
[…] D. (2012). The Statue of Johan Ludwig Runeberg with his son Walter. [image] Available at: URL [Accessed 20 Jul. […]