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

Should you visit Helsinki or Washington?

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 Washington 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 waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. Many visitors also come to Helsinki because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Helsinki travel costs.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Washington travel costs.

Helsinki and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Helsinki and Washington are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Washington is more touristy than Helsinki and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene.

How is Helsinki different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington 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 Washington?

Washington 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 Washington are world-renowned. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Helsinki is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Helsinki or Washington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington 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 Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Washington Better for Music?

Washington is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Helsinki is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Helsinki is not a live music destination.

Is Helsinki or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Washington?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Helsinki and Washington.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Helsinki or Washington More Beautiful?

Helsinki is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Helsinki because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Is Helsinki or Washington Better for Families?

Both Helsinki and Washington are superb 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.

Washington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Is Helsinki or Washington Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Washington are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Helsinki or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Helsinki is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Helsinki is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Helsinki or Washington Better for Students?

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

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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 Washington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington 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 Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Helsinki or Washington a more walkable city?

Washington 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 Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Washington?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington 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 Washington.

One day in Helsinki or Washington?

With museums and nightlife around the coastal city of Helsinki, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Washington 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 Washington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Helsinki, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Washington 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 Washington?

Helsinki, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, 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 Washington?

Helsinki is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington 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 Washington 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Washington?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Washington. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Washington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In Helsinki, it's very sunny this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Washington during summer. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Washington. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Washington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Washington. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than Washington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Washington. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Washington. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Washington in the Winter?

Both Washington and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Washington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Washington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Washington. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Washington in the Spring?

Both Washington and Helsinki during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Washington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Washington. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in April than Washington. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Helsinki