Helsinki is a city that offers more than just its charming streets and vibrant culture — it’s a place where nature and urban life blend seamlessly. What better way to appreciate this contrast than from the air? Helicopter flights in Helsinki provide a truly unique perspective, revealing the city’s lush green parks, the expansive archipelago, and historic sites from above. Our top picks include an affordable 45-minute sightseeing tour, a sustainable eco-friendly flight, and thrilling combo adventures with boats. Each offers a different flavor of Helsinki’s landscapes, making this list perfect for anyone eager to see the city from above in style.
Among these options, the Sightseeing Helicopter Tour in Helsinki 45 Minutes stands out for its balance of affordability and breathtaking views. If eco-conscious travel is your priority, the Helsinki: Eco-friendly Helicopter Sightseeing Tour offers a quiet ride with sustainable fuel. For a full-day adventure that combines aerial views, island visits, and watersports, the Redrib Boat and Helicopter Experience and the Helsinki: Helicopter and RIB Boat Adrenaline Combo Tour deliver high-energy experiences perfect for thrill-seekers. Keep reading to see which of these exciting options suits your Helsinki trip best.
1. Sightseeing Helicopter Tour in Helsinki 45 Minutes
This 45-minute helicopter tour is one of the most popular ways to see Helsinki from above. For around $34, you get a panoramic view of the city, its fortress Suomenlinna, the zoo on an island, and the sleek skyscrapers. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes including transfers, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time.
What makes this tour standout is its flexible itinerary, which can be customized to your interests, and the complementary snacks and drinks provided onboard. The pilot is experienced and professional, ensuring a smooth, safe ride. A highlight is the fly-by of Suomenlinna, where you can see the fortress’s impressive walls and lighthouse, and even opt to be dropped off on one of the islands for a sauna or dinner. Reviews rave about the exceptional scenery and soft landings, with many noting it as “an outstanding trip.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers excellent value for those wanting a quick but comprehensive aerial view of Helsinki and its archipelago, with the added perk of flexible options and friendly service.
2. Helsinki: Eco-friendly Helicopter Sightseeing Tour (1h)
If sustainability matters to you, the Eco-friendly Helicopter Sightseeing Tour is a fantastic choice. For about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll fly on the most silent and environmentally friendly helicopters in the world, fueled by sustainable aviation fuel. This tour focuses on top city sights, the archipelago, and natural forests, offering a comprehensive view of Helsinki and its surroundings.
During the flight, you’ll enjoy complimentary refreshments and plenty of opportunities to snap photos both from the ground and in the air. The pilot explains the sights as you glide over the landscape, making the experience both relaxing and educational. Reviewers describe it as a “very special experience” with excellent explanations and perfect weather.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, eco-conscious experience without sacrificing quality or views. Because it’s a silent, low-emission helicopter ride, it’s a good pick for those concerned about environmental impact but still seeking a memorable aerial adventure.
Bottom Line: For travelers who prioritize sustainability and detailed narration, this eco-friendly flight offers a smooth, quiet, and environmentally responsible way to see Helsinki.
3. Redrib Boat and Helicopter Experience in Helsinki
For those wanting a full-day adventure combining air, water, and island experiences, the Redrib Boat and Helicopter Experience is hard to beat. Costing just over $5,000 for up to six people, this tour lasts about four hours and includes a helicopter flight, a RIB boat ride, and a visit to a remote island.
After taking off in the helicopter to admire Helsinki from above, you’ll land on an island where you can swim in survival suits and enjoy a picturesque archipelago snack. The speedy RIB boat then whisks you back to the city, adding an adrenaline rush to the day. Guests rave about the thrilling ride and unique perspectives on the Helsinki archipelago, describing it as a “perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty.”
This experience is ideal for small groups or families seeking not just sightseeing but an interactive adventure with multiple modes of transport. The cost is high, but the combination of aerial and aquatic fun makes it worth it for adventure lovers.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full-day, high-adrenaline experience with both helicopter and boat rides, this tour’s blend of excitement and scenery is unmatched.
4. Helsinki: Helicopter and RIB Boat Adrenaline Combo Tour
Next on our list is the Helsinki: Helicopter and RIB Boat Adrenaline Combo, a 4-hour high-energy tour that combines aerial views with fast-paced water adventure. It’s designed for those who crave speed, thrill, and spectacular scenery.
The tour begins with a helicopter flight over Helsinki, offering sweeping views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding archipelago. Afterward, you’ll land on an island where you’ll try swimming in survival suits—keeping dry and warm while in the water—before jumping onto a RIB boat for a thrilling ride back to Helsinki. The boat ride is lively, giving you a close-up look at the archipelago’s islands and waters.
Guests appreciate the combination of aerial and water-based activities, with many describing it as “a perfect adrenaline rush” and “an unforgettable way to see Helsinki.” It’s well-suited for adventure travelers who want a full immersion into Helsinki’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: For those who want a fast-paced, multi-sensory experience, this combo tour offers stunning vistas and high-speed fun, ideal for active travelers.
$4,909 per group up to 6
How to Choose the Best Helicopter Tour in Helsinki
When selecting your helicopter experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. The Sightseeing Helicopter Tour offers great value for a quick overview, perfect if you’re short on time. The Eco-friendly Tour suits environmentally conscious travelers who want an upscale, quiet ride.
For adventure-seekers, the Redrib Boat and Helicopter Experience and the Adrenaline Combo Tour combine aerial views with watersports and high-speed boat rides. Keep in mind that these are more costly and last longer, making them best suited for those with a full day to spare.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and experience. Also, check for weather conditions — Helsinki’s weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility helps.
Final Thoughts
Helsinki’s helicopter tours offer a range of experiences, from quick scenic flights to full-day adrenaline adventures. For a budget-friendly overview, the sightseeing tour hits the mark with its panoramic views and customizability. Eco-conscious travelers will love the sustainable flight, combining comfort with environmental responsibility.
If you’re after an active, thrill-packed day, the combo tours with boats provide excitement, scenic beauty, and memorable moments in the archipelago. No matter your choice, each option promises a fresh perspective on Helsinki, giving you memories that will last long after you land. Be sure to book early — these aerial adventures fill up fast, especially during Finland’s long summer days or winter’s snowy season.