HAM Helsinki Art Museum
A functionalist gem built as a tennis venue, now a vibrant hub for contemporary art and the renowned Helsinki Biennial.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
HAM Helsinki Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A functionalist gem built as a tennis venue, now a vibrant hub for contemporary art and the renowned Helsinki Biennial.
"Impressive curation and collection, with beautiful pieces in the general collection and fantastic temporary exhibitions."
Check Exhibition Schedule
HAM hosts rotating exhibitions; always check what's on before you go! :calendar:
Consider the Biennial
If visiting during the Helsinki Biennial, explore all its locations for a full experience. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Helsinki Biennial Exhibitions
Various locations, including HAM
Experience cutting-edge contemporary art from international artists, often with a focus on nature and societal themes.

Tove Jansson Exhibition
Permanent Collection
Discover the artistic world of Tove Jansson, the beloved creator of the Moomins, and her other significant artworks. [^review]

Contemporary Finnish Art
Temporary Exhibitions
Explore imaginative and beautifully presented modern and contemporary Finnish art, showcasing local talent. [^review]
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to HAM
Navigating HAM and Beyond
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibition Schedule
HAM hosts rotating exhibitions; always check what's on before you go!
:calendar:Consider the Biennial
If visiting during the Helsinki Biennial, explore all its locations for a full experience.
:world_map:Look for the Building
The museum building itself is a functionalist tennis venue, sometimes hard to spot! [^review] :mag:
Coat Check Available
Utilize the lockers and coat room for a more comfortable visit. [^review] :coat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibition Schedule
HAM hosts rotating exhibitions; always check what's on before you go!
:calendar:Consider the Biennial
If visiting during the Helsinki Biennial, explore all its locations for a full experience.
:world_map:Look for the Building
The museum building itself is a functionalist tennis venue, sometimes hard to spot! [^review] :mag:
Coat Check Available
Utilize the lockers and coat room for a more comfortable visit. [^review] :coat:
Cinema Bonus
Enjoy a film at the museum's cinema for a cultural double-feature. [^review] :movie_camera:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise HAM Helsinki Art Museum for its impressive curation, particularly highlighting the Tove Jansson exhibition and the impactful Helsinki Biennial. The museum's warm space and thoughtful presentation of modern and contemporary Finnish art are frequently commended. However, some guests have reported instances of unwelcoming staff and poor customer service, which detracted from their overall experience.
"Very impressive curation and collection. The biennial choices were excellent. Looking at the natural world and art, it is one of the best collections I’ve seen doing that combo. Some beautiful pieces in the general collection aswell. I loved wasps."
Karen Jones Citywealth
"The staff at this museum were not welcoming or friendly. They charge €2 for a guide and when you ask them for directions around they won’t give it to you… this was a strange experience for me, the first time I’ve had this at an art museum and I would not recommend it based on the poor customer service. There are some fantastic artworks installed across two levels, I really enjoyed the Tove exhibition and Helsinki Biennial temporary exhibition."
Patrick Deeley
"I recently visited the Hessing Art Museum and really enjoyed the experience. The exhibition was impressive — full of creative installations and striking paintings. What I especially liked is that the museum also has a cinema inside. It was a nice bonus to be able to watch Superman right after exploring the art. A great mix of culture and entertainment in one place!"
Владимир Синица
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
HAM Helsinki Art Museum is centrally located. You can easily reach it by public transport, including trams and buses that stop nearby. It's also a pleasant walk from many central Helsinki locations.
The museum is generally accessible, with facilities designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's advisable to check their official website for specific accessibility details. [^review]
Parking in central Helsinki can be challenging. There are several public parking garages within walking distance of the museum. Public transport is often the most convenient option.
Yes, HAM is centrally located and within walking distance of many other attractions like the Esplanade Park and the Central Railway Station, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
Yes, HAM is one of the key venues for the Helsinki Biennial, hosting a significant portion of the exhibition's artworks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours vary, with Tuesdays typically being shorter and Wednesdays to Fridays often extending later. It's best to check the official HAM Helsinki Art Museum website for the most current hours.
Admission fees can vary depending on current exhibitions. While some general collections might be free or have a lower cost, special exhibitions, like the Helsinki Biennial, may have separate ticket prices.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for popular exhibitions or during peak times, to save time and guarantee entry.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the museum's official website for details on concession tickets and group rates.
Tickets for the Helsinki Biennial often cover access to all its locations, including HAM, Vallisaari Island, and Esplanade Park. Check the biennial's official site for specific ticket information.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
HAM features a mix of contemporary Finnish art, modern art, and significant temporary exhibitions like the Helsinki Biennial. They also have a permanent collection highlighting Tove Jansson's work.
[^review]While HAM focuses on contemporary and modern art, some exhibitions may appeal to older children. The museum's cinema can also be a family-friendly addition. [^review]
Guided tours may be offered for specific exhibitions. It's advisable to check the museum's schedule or inquire at the information desk upon arrival. [^review]
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check the signage or ask staff for specific rules.
HAM offers amenities such as a coat room, lockers, clean restrooms, and a museum shop. They also have a cinema for screenings. [^review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While HAM itself may not have a full-service restaurant, there are often cafes or kiosks offering refreshments. The surrounding area in central Helsinki has numerous dining options.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces to protect the artworks. There are designated areas where you can consume them. [^review]
Being in the heart of Helsinki, you'll find a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and bistros within a short walking distance, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can differ per exhibition. Usually, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but always confirm with museum staff or signage.
The architecture of the building itself can be photogenic, and the diverse art installations, especially during the Helsinki Biennial, offer unique visual opportunities.
While personal use is often allowed, commercial photography or use of tripods might require special permission. Check the museum's policy for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Helsinki Biennial Experience
Visiting the Biennial offers a multi-faceted art experience. At HAM, you can expect curated exhibitions that engage with the biennial's themes, showcasing a diverse range of artistic mediums and perspectives. The inclusion of the natural setting of Vallisaari Island and the public space of Esplanade Park provides a unique context for the art, encouraging visitors to interact with it in different environments. It's a fantastic opportunity to see cutting-edge art in a memorable setting.
Pro-tip: Plan your visit to the Biennial to allow ample time to explore all its locations. Consider how you'll travel between sites, especially to Vallisaari Island, which requires a ferry. Checking the official Helsinki Biennial website for schedules, maps, and artist information is highly recommended for a comprehensive experience.
Discovering Tove Jansson at HAM
Beyond the Moomins, Jansson's art often explores profound themes of nature, human relationships, and the complexities of life. The collection at HAM provides a comprehensive look at her artistic evolution, demonstrating her versatility and the enduring power of her creative vision. Visitors often express delight in seeing these iconic characters and the broader scope of her artistic talent in person. [^review]
For fans of Tove Jansson, this exhibition is a must-see. It offers a more intimate and artistic perspective on her work than what might be seen in children's books alone, revealing the depth and sophistication of her artistic output. It's a highlight for many visitors seeking a connection to Finnish culture and art history. [^review]
The Architecture of HAM
While the museum's exterior might be unassuming, making it sometimes hard to spot for first-time visitors [^review], the interior offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The thoughtful curation of exhibitions often complements the architectural space, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for visitors. The presence of amenities like coat rooms and lockers further enhances the comfort of exploring the museum's offerings. [^review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit