Imagine the place where modern Helsinki began. It is not a cathedral or a fortress, but this very waterfront. Market Square (Kauppatori) has existed here, on the southern shore of the peninsula, since the 18th century, dating back to the era of Swedish rule. Initially, it was a simple harbor where local fishermen and peasants from the surrounding islands would bring their catch and harvest to sell. The city grew around it, and the square remained its vital center—a place to hear news, conduct business, and simply meet.
From Herring to Souvenirs: The Evolution of Trade
Then (19th – early 20th century): The square was a harsh, working environment. The main commodity was, of course, fish—freshly caught Baltic herring, whitefish, and salmon. From carts, vendors sold milk, potatoes, berries, and mushrooms from suburban farms. Trade did not cease in winter: stalls would appear right on the ice of the frozen harbor, where one could buy hot glögg (a traditional Scandinavian hot alcoholic drink) and roasted chestnuts, as well as game and winter fish.
Now: The modern Kauppatori is a vibrant palette of Finnish life and gastronomy. Fishing boats still dock here, selling smoked salmon, the famous Finnish herring (silakka) marinated in a dozen varieties, and giant shrimp.
They are now joined by neat stalls with seasonal berries (cloudberry, blueberry, lingonberry in summer), local vegetables, aromatic bread, homemade cheese, and apple cider. A separate row is dedicated to souvenirs: from traditional mittens and reindeer leather goods to designer ceramics and puukko knives.
Why is it a must-visit for tourists? What to do on the square:
Try Finnish fast food by the sea: Buy "kalakukko" (a fish pie in rye crust) or crispy fried vendace ("muikku") and eat them while watching the ferries in the port. An essential ritual is to taste salmon soup ("lohikeitto") in one of the eateries inside the historic "Kauppahalli" (Old Market Hall).
Take a trip to the islands: From the square`s pier, ferries depart to the fortress of Suomenlinna (Sveaborg). The journey begins as a continuation of the square`s maritime atmosphere.
Find the symbols and monuments: In the center of the square stands the "Keisarinnankivi" (Empress`s Stone) obelisk, commemorating the visit of Nicholas I and his spouse. The city`s symbol—the bronze sculpture "Havis Amanda"—stands nearby by the fountain. Its annual "crowning" (the placement of a student`s cap) on May 1st is one of the city`s main holidays.
Experience the seasons: In summer, the square is all about sun, flowers, and street musicians. In autumn—mushrooms and pumpkins. In winter (from Christmas), a Christmas market opens here, where mulled wine is served, and huts selling handicrafts stand in the snow.
Visitor tips:
• Best time: Arrive by 8-9 AM to avoid the main crowds and see the market set up.
• What to try: Be sure to sample Finnish berries in season and get a cup of hot berry juice if it`s chilly.
• Heads up: The seagulls here are bold and skillfully snatch food from hands. Stay vigilant!
Market Square (Kauppatori) is the historical commercial and public center of Helsinki. Its location in the South Harbor determined the city`s development as a port and trading hub since the 18th century. The historical continuity of the square is evident in the preservation of its original purpose as a marketplace, despite changes in the range of goods and infrastructure.
