Tapiola City Guide

The lush garden city of Tapiola delights lovers of culture and architecture. Spend an atmospheric evening at a neighborhood cinema or take a walk to discover the area’s well-known architectural gems. Tapiola’s diverse services, parks, and cultural offerings make it a pleasant place to live and enjoy leisure time all year round.

 

Indulge  

 

 

Bistro O Mat 

A bistro inspired by French culinary culture, located in Ainoa’s Food Garden. The dishes are prepared using seasonal ingredients, with an emphasis on locally produced goods. In the cocktail bar area, you can enjoy a drink in between shopping or alongside cultural events.

 

Grilli Toro 

Legendary Grilli Toro has been serving in North Tapiola for over 50 years. The restaurant feels like a journey back in time: both the interior and the menu have remained largely unchanged for decades, and the classic steak dishes continue to taste just as they always have.

 

Nokkalan Majakka 

Nokkala Lighthouse is a seaside waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy à la carte dishes, Sunday breakfast, and seasonal treats such as afternoon tea or fondue. The stunning sea views make every visit a special experience.

 

Strinberg at Haukilahden Paviljonki

Located in the idyllic Haukilahti marina, Strinberg offers classic delicacies along with stunning views of the archipelago. The perfect place to stop for a drink in between outdoor activities!

 

Lucy in the sky 

Lucy in the Sky is located on the rooftop of the Keilaniemi tower, offering stunning views in all four directions over both Espoo and Helsinki. Alongside cocktails and modern bistro dishes, Lucy’s sushi is also well worth trying!

 

Kaisa’s Café 

Kaisa’s Café in Ainoa is known for its generous pastries and affordable prices. The café has been a favorite among Tapiola residents since the 1980s.

 

Culture, Shopping & Inspiration

 

 

Kino Tapiola 

Founded in 1955 and designed by Aarne Ervi, this traditional neighborhood cinema screens new releases in a modern auditorium. Alongside the film, you can enjoy wine and snacks such as cheeses from Lentävä Lehmä in the cinema’s atmospheric wine bar.

 

 

WeeGee Exhibition Centre 

Built in the 1960s, the former printing house provides an impressive setting for the WeeGee Exhibition Centre. There are museums to suit many tastes, from EMMA – the Museum of Modern Art to the Children’s Museum Leikki. The premises also feature the Delicatessen restaurant, a pleasant place to stop at the end of a museum visit to enjoy lunch or delicious tapas. Be sure to also check out the Futuro House in the backyard.

 

Espoo Cultural Centre

The Espoo Cultural Centre is a cultural venue designed by Arto Sipinen and completed in 1989, located in the heart of old Tapiola. The building is home to Tapiola Sinfonietta with its concert halls, and it also houses a bright and welcoming library.

 

& Espoo Theatre

& is much more than a traditional theatre. Its programme features art from across the performing arts, and the offering is diverse and international. Visit when you want to experience something new!

 

 

Cafe Latte Lifestyle

Cafe Latte Lifestyle -putiikki Ainoan kauppakeskuksessa ilahduttaa inspiroivilla esillepanoillaan. Täältä löydät vaatekaappiin ja kotiin skandinaavisen tyylin kulmakiviä.

 

 

Villa Gyllenberg and the Didrichsen Art Museum

Located on Kuusisaari, about a 10-minute drive from Tapiola, Villa Gyllenberg and the Didrichsen Art Museum stand side by side. Designed by Matti Finell and Viljo Revell, the architecture of these buildings is a sight in itself, alongside their impressive art exhibitions.

 

 

Escapism & Architecture 

 

Otsolahti Park and Marina 

Otsolahti Park and Marina offer a beautiful setting for outdoor activities all year round. The area features a children’s playground and a well-equipped outdoor gym.

 

Espoo Waterfront Trail  

The paths along the Espoo Waterfront Trail offer stunning sea views and plenty of stopping points along the way. Along the route, you’ll find places such as the Villa Elfvik Nature House, beaches, and numerous dining spots.

 

Tapiola Golf 

Tapiola Golf delights golf enthusiasts and is among Finland’s most respected courses. Thanks to short distances between holes, rounds can be completed easily, and the stunning landscapes resemble the moors of Scotland—while in winter, the area also offers cross-country skiing trails.

 

Tapiola Ice Garden

During the winter season, the Tapiola Ice Garden offers a spacious skating rink, and Café Hile warms both body and mind with its hot drinks.

 

 

Taskumatti Houses 

Taskumatti Houses

The Taskumatti Houses are apartment buildings designed by Viljo Revell between 1959 and 1961. They form a central part of Tapiola’s original architecture and are one of its defining symbols. These iconic buildings are best admired from the top of Länsikorkee hill.