Allas Sea Pool

Allas Sea Pool is a waterfront spa complex at Katajanokanlaituri 2 A in Helsinki, Uusimaa, beside Market Square on the harbour. It combines a heated freshwater pool, a seawater pool, several saunas and a terrace, and it is open throughout the year, including winter, when steam rises off the pools against the cold air. The site gives a rare opportunity to swim in the heart of the city with views of the Presidential Palace, Helsinki Cathedral and the Uspenski Cathedral across the water. Saunas, including a wood-heated option, are used in the Finnish way, alternating between heat and a dip. A cold plunge into the harbour water is available for the bold. Swimwear is required in the pools and saunas, and the facilities include changing rooms and lockers. A visit usually takes two to three hours. The opening hours are Monday-Thursday 6:30-21:00, Friday 6:30-22:00, Saturday 8:00-22:00 and Sunday 8:00-21:00, but times can change for events, so check allaspool.fi. A day pass costs about €16-19, with reduced prices for children. Early mornings are the quietest time, while summer afternoons and weekend evenings draw the largest crowds, partly because the terrace works as a restaurant and bar. In winter, an evening visit offers the strongest contrast of steam and cold. The complex is a five-minute walk from Market Square along the waterfront in Katajanokka, and the nearby ferries and market stalls make it easy to combine with sightseeing in the centre.