For me, the true Helsinki food hub remains Hakaniemi market hall and square. I regularly visit for gourmet goodies, the best fish stalls and a true roots atmosphere in the tent-like outdoor cafés. You can also enjoy impromptu musical performances by both traditional accordion players and well-known jazz divas.

Uninhabited for decades, the spectacular historical buildings and unique nature of the former military site Vallisaari island can finally be visited from 14 May 2016 onwards. The island can be reached by a 20-minute boat trip that also serves the Suomenlinna fortress island and the tiny Lonna restaurant island. It’s time for island-hopping in Helsinki-style.

I’m a fan of libraries – and Finns do them really well. The new central library will open in 2018. In the meanwhile, the perfect spot for reading, thinking and general brainstorming is the brilliant Kaisa libary by young architects Anttinen Oiva.

Tucked in a hidden basement you fill find a mindblowing collection of vintage furniture by the likes of Aalto, Kukkapuro and Tapiovaara. If you are in luck, you might meet design enthusiast Juhani Lemmetti who leads the store with charm and an impressive knowledge of the collection.

Tähtitorninmäki is one of the loveliest parks in Helsinki. Amidst the leafy slopes and vistas of the harbour you will find the beautiful Helsinki Observatory, designed by C. L. Engel and completed in 1834. Perfect for a summer stroll and lunch at the café.