On weekends, Aleksanterinkatu transforms into a vibrant pedestrian street. During this time, only trams and emergency vehicles are allowed access onto the street, which creates a safe and accessible environment for the large crowds visiting the area. Located at the western end of the street, Three Smiths Square--which is filled with movable tables, chairs, and benches-- offers shoppers a welcoming spot for relaxing and mingling.

Especially popular during the summer, the historic square has also been the site of numerous election campaigns and street performances, all taking place around the iconic Three Smiths Statue which stands majestically in its center. Even as temperatures drop at the end of the year, Aleksanterinkatu remains lively as the numerous shops and restaurants along the street continue to draw visitors and crowds. Easily accessible by foot and public transportation, the street is one of Helsinki’s best for shopping, sightseeing, and holiday celebration.

Aleksanterinkatu is the central east-west street in Helsinki, beginning near the Presidential Palace and continuing for a quarter mile to Mannerheimintie, the city’s longest street. Known colloquially as "Aleksi," the street was planned in the 1800s by Carl Ludvig Engel, who originally named it Suurkatu, or “Grand Street”, in honor of Tsar Alexander I of Russia. The historic road traverses some of the city’s most important landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral, the flagship office of the Nordea bank, the University of Helsinki, and the Stockmann department store. Each year in November, Aleksanterinkatu turns into “Christmas Street,” and it becomes a gathering spot for locals and visitors to admire festive light displays and elaborate storefront decorations.

Image credits, from left: Dave Arter via Flickr, Mikko Kuhna via Flickr, mifl68 via Flickr, hugovk via Flickr, Michael via Flickr, Riku Kettunen via Flickr