The summit of Malminkartanonhuippu
If you’ve stumbled across this page hoping to find out about the top things to do in the Finnish capital, you may be disappointed. If you’re hoping to find out about the literal highest point in Helsinki, this is the page for you.
I have been visiting friends in Finland for most summers since 2003. In the intervening years I had developed my obsession for bagging high points but I never thought to find out where is the highest point of this very flat part of the country. With a spare morning before flying back to London in August 2025 I convinced my mates that the best thing to do was to climb to the top of an old landfill site.
Vanhakaupunki - Old Helsinki
Vanhakaupunki, which literally translates to "Old Town," holds the distinction of being the original settlement of Helsinki. Founded by Swedish King Gustav I Vasa in 1550, the city was strategically located at the mouth of the Vantaa River, where it was hoped it would develop into a bustling port to compete with the Hanseatic city of Tallinn. While the grand plans for a major trading hub didn't immediately materialize, this spot laid the foundation for what would eventually become Finland's capital. Today, visitors can still feel a sense of history in this tranquil area, though much of the urban life has long since shifted south to the modern city center.
While not filled with the medieval cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings one might associate with other European old towns, Vanhakaupunki's charm lies in its unique natural setting and historical remnants. The Vantaa River flows through the area, creating a series of beautiful rapids known as the Vanhankaupunginkoski. These rapids, once the power source for old mills and factories, are now a picturesque feature enjoyed by fishermen and nature lovers. A pedestrian bridge offers a fantastic viewpoint of the churning water and the surrounding green spaces, which are a haven for local birdlife.
For those interested in the area's industrial heritage, Vanhakaupunki offers fascinating insights. The old power plant, a striking red-brick building, is a prominent landmark, and the area is home to the Helsinki City Museum's technical and industrial exhibitions. It's a place where you can appreciate the balance between nature and industry, a theme that has long defined the city. Though it may not be on every tourist's main itinerary, a visit to Vanhakaupunki provides a peaceful escape from the urban bustle and a unique opportunity to connect with the very origins of Helsinki, all while enjoying some of the city's most beautiful natural scenery.
You can find the highest point in the area on top of a rock just off Vanhankaupungintie (street), There’s a staircase to the top and a monument marking the summit.
Malminkartanonhuippu - Modern Helsinki
Malminkartanonhuippu, a name that translates to "Malminkartano's Peak," holds the unique distinction of being the highest point in Helsinki. Located in the Malminkartano district, this impressive man-made hill reaches an elevation of 91 meters (299 feet) above sea level. It's not a natural geological feature but rather a testament to urban development and innovative land reclamation. The hill was constructed over a number of years, using excavation soil and rubble from various construction sites across the city, including material from the excavation of the Helsinki Metro. What was once a landfill site has been ingeniously transformed into a popular recreational area.
The ascent to the summit is a journey in itself, often referred to as the "Malminkartano stairs." A long, winding staircase of around 426 steps, along with a more gentle, accessible path, leads visitors to the top. The climb is a popular challenge for locals looking for a good workout, with many people using the stairs for their daily exercise routine. As you ascend, the views begin to open up, offering glimpses of the surrounding suburban landscape.
Reaching the top of Malminkartanonhuippu is well worth the effort. The panoramic views from the summit are arguably the best in Helsinki. On a clear day, you can see far beyond the city limits, with vistas stretching across the entire metropolitan area. The view encompasses both the urban landscape of central Helsinki with its iconic buildings and the vast forests and waters of the surrounding Uusimaa region. The hill is a popular spot for picnics, evening strolls, and watching the sunset, providing a peaceful escape from the city's noise and bustle and a unique perspective on the Finnish capital.
