Top 8 Shopping Spots in Finland for Nordic Design Enthusiasts

Finland, a country popular among those who love miscellaneous goods, is a treasure trove of Nordic items, surrounded by Sweden and Norway and blessed with rich natural beauty. While enjoying the sights and delicious seafood is great, shopping is a must when you visit Finland!
You can indulge in world-famous brands like Marimekko, Iittala, and Arabia, or explore lesser-known gems. With plenty of souvenir-friendly items available, you might find yourself running out of time to shop. This time, we’ve carefully selected six recommended shopping spots in Finland to introduce to you.

1. Marimekko Outlet

The Finnish brand "Marimekko," is a must-buy when you visit Finland! Next to the Marimekko headquarters in the suburbs of Helsinki, there is an outlet shop where you can purchase popular items at discounted prices.
Since this is a store located right in Finland, the selection of products is exceptional! From fabrics to clothing and miscellaneous goods, a variety of Marimekko items are packed into the space. Towels, in particular, are plentiful, and many tourists buy them in bulk. Another highlight is the cafeteria attached to the headquarters. It is open to the public, offering a healthy buffet menu. Everything from the tableware to the tablecloths and placemats is Marimekko-themed. How about enjoying a delicious meal surrounded by stylish Marimekko items?

2. Hakaniemi Market

Hakaniemen Kauppahalli (Hakaniemi Market Hall), known as Helsinki's kitchen, is a place frequented by many locals. The building has two floors: the first floor is filled with fresh produce and groceries, while the second floor hosts a variety of shops selling miscellaneous goods. The colorful array of Finnish food items on the first floor is fun just to look at! It's also a great spot to stock up on ingredients you might need during your stay.
For tourists seeking souvenirs, the second-floor shops are the go-to place. You can find iconic Finnish items like Marimekko and Moomin goods, so if you don't have time to visit multiple places, this is a good spot to get everything at once. The prices are fair, allowing you to enjoy shopping with peace of mind. Also, don't miss the popular soup shop "Soppakeittio" located inside the market! By the way, they offer unlimited bread, so you can fill up before heading off for more shopping.

3. Iittala

Iittala" is a Finnish tableware brand that is also highly popular. Its Nordic-style designs and vibrant colors can brighten your mood just by looking at them. Although tableware can be difficult to bring back as souvenirs, window shopping alone is enough to immerse yourself in the Nordic atmosphere.
The spacious store offers a wide range of Iittala products, including collaborations with Moomin, which are uniquely Finnish! With their simple and highly functional designs, these items are perfect for everyday use. As one of Finland's most popular brands, the store is always bustling with people. If you're planning to make big purchases, allow plenty of time to browse.

4. Stockmann

Stockmann is a department store that represents Finland. It’s a convenient shopping spot where you can find everything you need, from food to cosmetics and household goods. Located just a 5-minute walk from Helsinki Central Station, it offers easy access. The basement houses a supermarket, making it a perfect place to find small souvenirs.
A highlight is the deli corner, featuring a wide selection of salads, sandwiches, sushi, pasta, chicken, seafood dishes, and desserts. It’s a lifesaver if you're leaving your hotel early in the morning or too tired to dine out. While a bit pricier than the supermarket, the taste is guaranteed! You can also try Finnish specialties like crayfish or reindeer dishes in the deli—highly recommended for those curious to explore Finnish flavors.

5. Moomin Shop

When visiting Finland, one character that instantly comes to mind is the beloved Moomin. Their timeless popularity ensures that the Moomin Shops in Finland are always abuzz with activity. The shops in Finland boast a wider and richer variety. Exploring exclusive Finland-only items is a joyful treasure hunt for fans.
Product labels are also in English, so even if you’re not fluent in Finnish, you can shop with confidence. Moomin Shops are conveniently located both in central Helsinki and within Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. If you’re worried about forgetting to pick up souvenirs, the airport shop is a great last-minute option!

6. Academic Bookstore

The most famous and largest bookstore in Finland, the “Academic Bookstore,” is operated by the department store “Stockmann,” introduced earlier. In addition to books, they sell Finnish-designed stationery and miscellaneous goods, as well as a section with Moomin items, making it fun to browse.
The spacious store interior is perfect for leisurely searching for books. If you get tired from shopping, taking a break at the café on the second floor is recommended. Enjoy delicious cakes while soaking in the local vibe!

7. Turku Market

If you take a train about two hours from Helsinki, you'll arrive in Turku, the oldest city in Finland. At the center of Turku is a brick indoor market called "Turun Kauppahalli (Turku Market)." Similar to the Hakaniemi Market in Helsinki, this market offers a wide range of items, including food ingredients, clothing, daily goods, and souvenirs.
There are many eateries, so you can use it as a food court. In addition to light meals such as sausages, cheese, nuts, bread, and soup, you can enjoy authentic dishes like sushi, Thai food, and Mexican cuisine! There are also many sweet shops offering delicious cakes and specialty coffee shops, making it a great spot to take a break during shopping.

8. Jumbo Shopping Centre

Located just a few kilometers from Helsinki International Airport (Vantaa Airport), "Jumbo Shopping Centre" is a must-visit destination. This massive shopping mall sits next to the Nordic region's largest entertainment complex, the "Viihdekeskus Flamingo (Flamingo Entertainment Center)."
With over 120 shops, restaurants, supermarkets, and department stores, Jumbo is a one-stop hub for shopping and leisure. Its close proximity to the airport makes it a popular choice for travelers during layovers, offering the perfect opportunity to grab a bite, pick up last-minute essentials, or simply relax. Adjacent to Jumbo, the Flamingo Entertainment Center boasts a range of attractions, including luxurious spas, pools, saunas, a cinema, bowling alleys, VR experiences, and escape rooms. Though about 20 minutes from Helsinki’s city center, it’s well worth the trip!

Summary

Finland, a paradise of Nordic goods, is home to many world-famous brands, offering an endless shopping experience. You’ll be amazed by the abundance of options available in their home country. Surrounded by the outstanding design of Nordic goods, enjoy shopping to your heart’s content!