The best-known square, and the one that attracts most foreign visitors, is called the Market Square. Another important one, Hakaniemi, in the heart of what used to be the city's working-class part. The best-known flea market is in Hietalahti Square at the western end of Bulevardi. The Market Square has the most central location in Helsinki, but to get a broader picture of the city the other markets are worth seeing as well. Unlike the Market Square, Hakaniemi has not become a magnet for international visitors in search of colour, but it could be said to reflect a more real picture of everyday life in Finland.
People go there to buy bread, fruit, vegetables, berries, pastries, flowers and fish.
The people who rent out stalls mainly sell clothes, books and a variety of household articles, but there are also genuine antiques and other valuable objects to be found. The flea market in the underground parking lot at the Forum shopping mall is open year-round and the weather outdoors has no effect on it. The Ice Hall has occasional flea markets, especially at weekends in winter. Helsinki City Real Estate Department, tel.