Hotels near Aleksanterinkatu Christmas Street

Aleksanterinkatu, Helsinki's main shopping street, becomes Christmas Street (Joulukatu) every year, with lights strung above the pavements. The official opening of Christmas Street marks the start of the festive season in Helsinki; in 2025 it took place on 22 November.

Along the street, the Stockmann department store is known for its Christmas window displays, which attract families every year. Cafés along the way serve seasonal treats such as gingerbread and rice porridge.

The street runs from Senate Square to Mannerheimintie, making it easy to combine with a visit to the Helsinki Christmas market, and it is at its most atmospheric after dark.

Pro Tip: Walk Aleksanterinkatu after dark from Senate Square to Stockmann, then warm up in one of the cafés with a joulutorttu, a star-shaped Finnish Christmas pastry filled with plum jam.