A project was born in Helsinki that has already conquered tourists and residents: the Doggy Route to Happiness, the first tourist route in the world created to measure for dogs. Launched on 8 and 9 August 2025, in conjunction with the World Dog Show, the initiative saw the participation of over 1,000 dogs, transforming the Finnish capital into a true paradise for paw.
The route, free and self -loyal, started from the famous Café Regatta, a historic meeting point on the sea, to conduct visitors through stages designed exclusively for the four legs. Among the most photographed attractions, the Stickenelius Monument stood out, a reduced scale version of the famous monument in Sibelius, built entirely with sticks by an artist dog, Neris, known for its original natural sculptures.
The itinerary also included the Café Dogatta, a canine variant of the best known regatta, where the PETs could taste snacks and fresh water. The route ended in the spectacular Rajasari Island, an island entirely dedicated to dogs, open 24 hours a day, with paths in the woods, beaches and bathing areas. Here a photographic set was also set up by the “Dogographer” Fanny Haga, who immortalized more than 200 hairy guests in poses by real models.
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A dog-friendly city par excellence
With about 40,000 recorded dogs, Helsinki is confirmed one of the most welcoming cities in Europe for PET. It offers over 90 dedicated areas, confidential beaches and even a forest of 50 hectares for their entertainment. Four -legged friends can enter most of shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as traveling for free on public transport.
According to Soila Lehkonen, head of the city brand, the purpose of the initiative was to celebrate the role of animals in urban life since dogs bring happiness and deserve to live the city like their owners. With the Doggy Route to Happiness, Helsinki shows how tourism can be inclusive, enhancing not only symbolic places but also the experience shared between people and animals.
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