A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Helsinki vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Helsinki or New York City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and New York City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront city. Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Helsinki travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See New York City travel costs.

Helsinki and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Helsinki. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City and Helsinki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Helsinki or New York City?

New York City is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in New York City that are not to be missed. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in New York City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

Dining out in Helsinki is an experience not to be missed. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to New York City just to party. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New York City. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or New York City?

New York City is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, New York City draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or New York City More Beautiful?

Helsinki is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Helsinki is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city's location on the tip of a peninsula means that the water has a huge influence over daily life. There are more than 300 islands in the area and plenty of nature and parkland. The city is filled with striking color and tons of beauty.

New York City is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and New York City are very good to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Helsinki is very family-friendly. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

New York City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

New York City is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

New York City is a very popular city for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Many students visit Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Is Helsinki or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in New York City can get you around easily. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or New York City?

Both Helsinki and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Helsinki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Helsinki. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in New York City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in New York City than Helsinki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in New York City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Helsinki if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in New York City.

One day in Helsinki or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Helsinki. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Helsinki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Helsinki. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Finland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Finland, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Helsinki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Helsinki is in Europe and New York City is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Helsinki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Helsinki and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Helsinki.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Helsinki Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and New York City, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Helsinki or New York City?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Helsinki or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than New York City. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Helsinki usually gets less rain in October than New York City. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or New York City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and New York City. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

New York City can be very cold during winter. Helsinki can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than New York City. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or New York City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to New York City because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Helsinki can be very cold during spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than New York City. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Helsinki