Some general questions...

I%26#39;m going to Helsinki for 7 days at the start of August this year and am so excited!

I have read a lot of tour guides and know some of the best places to visit but really want to make the most of my time there and my money!

Just wanted some advice for the best budget restuarants (traditional,sushi, italien etc) and best places to by groceries for cooking in our hostel.

Also would like to know the best places to shop for more affordable alternative interesting stuff!

Basically ANYTHING you can advise for my trip would be most welcome!

I%26#39;m staying in Hoestl Academica which i think is quite close to the center.

Thanks!

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For groceries any grocery store you bump into on the street. The one downstairs of Sokos department store and those in the Railway Station%26#39;s tunnel have the longest opening hours.

For delicacies and more exotic stuff you can check Stokmann%26#39;s grocery department.

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I%26#39;m not sure what you mean by %26#39;more affordable alternative stuff%26#39; but you might try the Hietaniemi flea market. The earlier you get there the more goodies there are, and the later the cheaper.

Indian, Chinese, Nepalese and kebab restaurants are a good deal. Fill up at lunchtime and have a picnic dinner in your room as there are always good offers for lunch.

Academica is within walking distance of the centre.

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Thanks for your reply, is the flea market on everday...and what time is early enough? :D

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Oops, it%26#39;s Hietalahti, not Hietaniemi. Take tram 6 or better, walk. Opening hours are 10 - 6 Monday to Friday, 8 - 4 on Saturday and 10 - 4 Sundays. It%26#39;s a lot busier at weekends, when ordinary people take the opportunity to empty their attics and take a profit. Some of the regular traders are semi-pros.

There%26#39;s an even bigger flea market at Aleksis Kiven katu 17, again particularly popular at weekends. The location is not as convenient or attractive, though.

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Oh that sounds great, I love markets! Thanks again for your help.