This city is the European capital of coffee. It will satisfy even the most demanding

Although not obvious, Helsinki is the European capital of coffee. A break for a pitch-black brew is not only an opportunity for Finns to recharge their batteries. It also has great social significance. In Helsinki, we will find many interesting cafes, small roasteries and people who approach coffee brewing with passion.

Coffee came to Finland in the 17th century. Initially, it was a drink for the elite and the wealthy. It was even considered a drink with medicinal properties. Interestingly, initially, the beans were sold in pharmacies and roasted at home. Today, coffee is a cure for the blues and a way to strengthen social ties . Drinking it is such an important ritual that, according to the law, in addition to the mandatory 30-minute lunch break, Finns are also entitled to two 15-minute coffee breaks.

Finns don't like to drink a small black coffee in a hurry, taking it to go. They prefer to savor it. What's more, coffee in Finland is not refused - it is considered rude . After finishing a cup, you should expect another one. If the amount of the drink exceeds your limit, you should only ask for half a cup when refilling. Finland is the country with the highest coffee consumption in the world. Its residents consume an average of 12 kg of coffee per person per year. This, according to Euronews, is equivalent to about 4-5 cups per day.

Such is the popularity of this aromatic brew that the Finnish coffee scene has spawned many small, artisanal roasteries and trendy cafés run by true enthusiasts.

You can immerse yourself in coffee culture by visiting Helsinki . Here you will find not only great beans, but also people who can appreciate them, extracting a true depth of flavor from them. Also important is the greater enthusiasm for diverse and more experimental forms of coffee preparation.

However, it is worth starting a coffee trip around Helsinki with places with a long history. You can drop by the Ekberg café, founded in 1852, or Café Engel, which turned 36 this year.