Esplanadi

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The Esplanadi park.

In the heart of Helsinki, the capital of Finland, Esplanadi (Swedish: Esplanaden) is an esplanade consisting of the Esplanadinpuisto park and the parallel one-way streets on its sides named Pohjoisesplanadi (Finnish for North Esplanade, Swedish: Norra Esplanaden) and Eteläesplanadi (Finnish for South Esplanade, Swedish: Södra Esplanaden). They lead from Erottaja Square to Market Square (Kauppatori), and North Esplanade extends along the border of Market Square up to Katajanokka Channel. Parallel to Pohjoisesplanadi, a little northwards, is Aleksanterinkatu. Esplanadi is colloquially called "Espa".

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Kappeli is a popular restaurant in Esplanadi.

The big green area between the two streets is very active in summer, where many Finns come to have a picnic. There are also numerous live music performances on a special outdoor stage in front of Cafe Kappeli. There is a statue of Johan Ludwig Runeberg by his son Walter Runeberg in the park. The park was originally opened in 1812.

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A kiosk in Esplanadi, selling coffee and ice cream in summertime. This kiosk is the cheapest place to buy coffee in the entire centre of Helsinki.

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The Esplanadi park in winter.

External links

1. Esplanade Park in Green Hearts - Park Walks In Helsinki by City of Helsinki Public Works Department