The Best Public Saunas in Helsinki
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is home to some of the finest public saunas in the country. For many Finns, the Finnish sauna is a way of life, offering relaxation, socializing, and a deep connection with nature. But what makes a public sauna truly great? In our opinion, the best public saunas seamlessly combine several key elements: clean and inviting facilities, pleasant and gentle heat, a comfortable atmosphere, and easy accessibility. Additionally, the possibility to take a dip in the sea or a pool, or at least to cool off outside, enhances the experience. A selection of refreshments is also a welcome bonus.
What is a public sauna?
A public sauna is a place where you can take a sauna during its opening hours for an entrance fee. There are several public saunas in Helsinki, for example.
How to Use a Public Sauna
Simply put, it usually goes like this:
- arrive with a towel and swimsuit
- pay the entrance fee and ask for guidelines
- head to the changing room
- undress and store your belongings in a locker
- Whether you go to the sauna naked, with a towel, or in a swimsuit, check the guidelines when you arrive or ask other sauna-goers for advice.
- take a shower before entering the sauna
- Enjoy the sauna and take breaks to drink water and cool off
Men and women have separate dressing rooms, and upon arrival, you can rent a towel from the reception if needed. Typically, you will also receive a key at the counter that fits your locker in the changing room, where you can store your belongings while you enjoy the sauna.
Keep in mind that not all public saunas have lockable lockers, so it may be a good idea to leave your valuables at your accommodation or in your car while you go to the sauna.
Always enter the sauna clean by showering beforehand, and sit on a bench cover or a towel – not directly on the bare wood.
Keep in mind that different public saunas may have different customs and rules. When it comes to, for example, nudity in the sauna, check the rules upon arrival – different saunas may have specific guidelines regarding this.
It’s good to know in advance whether your chosen sauna offers swimming facilities – if it does, be sure to bring a swimsuit.
The Sauna Culture in Finland
Public saunas in Finland are a fundamental part of our country’s culture. But exactly how many public saunas are there in Finland? Unfortunately, no one knows the exact number. However, in the Helsinki metropolitan area alone, there are dozens of public saunas catering to different tastes and preferences.
In the 1940s, the number of public saunas in Helsinki was at its peak, with over 120 in operation. However, in modern times, many Finns have their own sauna at home, reducing the need for public saunas. Nevertheless, the communal and rich culture of public saunas remains strong in Helsinki and throughout Finland. For example, winter swimming spots and beaches in cities often have a sauna, which may be heated on one or more days a week.
A common question among visitors is: “Are public saunas in Finland naked?” The answer varies depending on the location. The most typical public sauna setting in Finland is inside a swimming hall, where wearing a swimsuit is often prohibited. If swimwear is not allowed, there will be a clear sign at the sauna entrance. However, if there is no specific prohibition, people may enter the sauna wearing a towel or a swimsuit, provided they have showered beforehand.
What to Wear in a Public Sauna
If you’re unsure what to wear in a public sauna, the best approach is to check the sauna’s specific rules upon arrival. Some public saunas require swimwear, while others encourage sauna-goers to be nude, especially in gender-separated saunas. A towel is always a good option if you prefer some coverage.
To ensure a smooth experience, bring a swimsuit, a towel, and a water bottle. Additionally, shower sandals can be useful, particularly in larger public sauna facilities.
Top Public Saunas in Helsinki
Helsinki offers a wide range of excellent public saunas, from traditional wood-fired saunas to modern urban wellness centers. Here are a few must-visit options:
Allas Sea Pool
- Allas Sea Pool offers a unique combination of saunas, swimming pools, and sea views.
- Located in the city centre of Helsinki, it is one of the newer sauna complexes.
- The heart of Allas Sea Pool is a 30-person panoramic sauna, designed for shared use, with breathtaking views of the archipelago and open sea.
- What makes it special compared to other public saunas in Helsinki is its swimming pool, which also inspired its name.
- Read more
Sauna Hermanni
- Sauna Hermanni offers its visitors an authentic and heartfelt sauna experience.
- Combines respect for Finnish sauna traditions with a sense of community and atmosphere.
- A place where people can unwind and enjoy the company of others.
- Located in Vallila.
- Read more
Kulttuurisauna
- Soft heat and an extremely pleasant, relaxing atmosphere enjoyed in silence.
- The opportunity to cool off outdoors on benches and descend the stairs into the sea, even in winter.
- The arrival time has to be booked in advance with five-minute precision.
- Read more
Uusi sauna
- Blends traditional Finnish sauna culture with modern design for a unique and relaxing experience.
- A welcoming neighborhood sauna where locals and visitors can unwind and socialize.
- Includes a restaurant and café, perfect for enjoying food and drinks before or after sauna.
- Read more
Making the Most of Your Sauna Experience
When visiting a public sauna in Finland, don’t hesitate to ask the staff about the sauna’s customs and rules. Most importantly, embrace the experience with an open mind. Whether you’re sweating it out in a wood-fired sauna or enjoying the steamy heat of a modern facility, Helsinki’s public saunas provide an unforgettable experience deeply rooted in Finnish culture.
Read also:
No Phones, No Books: Why the Finnish Sauna Is the Perfect Spiritual Detox
Winter Sauna & Ice Dip Experience: This is Löylykontti in Kivenlahti, Espoo
Finnish Family Sauna – A Cherished Tradition Across Generations
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