Skinny-dipping is back in central Helsinki as Yrjönkatu swimming hall reopens

Helsinki’s legendary Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall is back. After a two-year renovation, Finland’s oldest swimming hall reopens on Monday 2 February 2026, bringing its famously distinctive bathing culture back into action.

Originally opened in 1928, Yrjönkatu is a showpiece of 1920s classicism, designed by architect Väinö Vähäkallio. The refurbishment has carefully restored the building’s historic character while quietly updating its facilities for modern-day swimmers.

But Yrjönkatu has always been about more than architecture. The hall is internationally known for its long-standing tradition of nude swimming – yes, nude – though never mixed. Women and men swim on separate days, a system that remains firmly in place. Women have access on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, while men swim on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

That said, swimwear is now optional. The strict all-nude policy was relaxed back in 2001, making the experience a little less intimidating for first-timers.

Opening day itself is more about looking than soaking: on 2 February, visitors can join free public tours of the building, with choral performances adding to the atmosphere. Swimming and sauna use begin the following day, Tuesday 3 February, starting with the men’s swimming session.

Beyond the pools, Yrjönkatu offers a full wellness setup, including several saunas, private relaxation cabins on the second floor, group exercise studios, a gym and meeting rooms. There’s also a café upstairs, ideal for lingering a little longer after your swim.

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