Helsinki’s Yrjönkatu swimming hall reopens – A quiet highlight of urban culture

Why authentic everyday places matter in city travel

Following a careful renovation, the Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall will reopen on 2 February 2026. First opened in 1928, it is one of the oldest indoor swimming halls in the Nordics and a living example of Finland’s long bathing and sauna tradition.

The restoration focused on preserving the building’s original atmosphere, combining Nordic Classicism with Art Deco details, traditional saunas and a layout that balances exercise with relaxation.

Yrjönkatu’s appeal lies in its authenticity. Rather than a curated attraction, it offers insight into local urban life, reflecting a broader shift in city tourism toward meaningful, everyday experiences.

For tour operators, this highlights growing opportunities to enrich city itineraries with low-key, high-value cultural experiences that resonate with travellers seeking depth, calm and a genuine sense of place.

More on swimming hall Yrjönkatu in Helsinki.

Header: © Katri Lehtola / Keksi Agency