Stay and hang with queers in Helsinki

Kallio is where Helsinki's queers go to be lazy, and the sunny terrace at Sivukirjasto beside Karhupuisto is the place to do it. A short ferry ride from Market Square brings you to Suomenlinna, where the grassy ramparts of the old sea fortress are perfect for a picnic. For sunset, find a spot on the sand at Hietaniemi beach and watch the sky change colour over the bay. End the night in Kallio with cocktails at Struts, a gloriously queer bar with too many chandeliers and the smallest cabaret stage in town.

On 1 May, the whole city piles into Kaivopuisto for the Vappu picnic, with blankets, sparkling wine and white student caps everywhere. Squeeze onto the edge of someone's blanket and you will have new friends by the afternoon.