Tip-based Tour of Helsinki - RED UMBRELLA - 2025
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Tip-based Tour of Helsinki - RED UMBRELLA - 2025

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(348 reviews)
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

DISCOVER HELSINKI on our FREE TO JOIN walking tour

Multiple tours every day - check our booking times

**The 3 euros that you pay are covering Viator/Booking.com booking fee. WE DO NOT GET THIS MONEY!**

**Please show your appreciation through TIPS to the guide at the end of the tour - in Euros or by card. These tips help us to continue offering Free Tours in future**

SINCE 2017, this 2.5 hour shared group tour is the best introduction to this mysterious Nordic city of Helsinki. We will take you on a tour of the best places here, and show you a few out of the way places too - places that only locals know.

Along the way, we will tell you about our History, modern Helsinki and how our society functions - and our Architecture, Design and culture.

We will also give insider tips on where to visit after the tour, including the best places to eat, drink and visit - so that you can best optimize your stay.

BOOK YOUR PLACE and see you soon!

Available options

Tip-based Tour of Helsinki - RED UMBRELLA - 2025

What's included

Our experienced and knowledgeable guides

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The statue of Tsar Alexander the 2nd in the center of the Senate Square, marks the start point of the tour. This is the most historical part of Helsinki, and some say the most beautiful - with it's Russian Neoclassic architecture. Here we can see the Helsinki Cathedral, the University of Helsinki, and a great viewpoint of the Senate Square for photos.

2
Stop 2

Following our visit to the Senate Square, our next stop is the White Helsinki Cathedral. Perhaps one of the most impressive buildings in Helsinki, it is also the most visited building. We will allow a little time to visit inside (providing there are no services or weddings), and we will allow time to take photos of this building so you have a souvenir to take home.

3
Stop 3

National Library of Finland is nestled in the very heart of the Senate Square, and has an impressive interior. This treasure trove of knowledge and culture, houses manuscripts, rare books and exhibitions. We will allow time to visit inside, if the groups aren't too big, and if the library is open (on week days). Otherwise we have photos of the magnificent interior to show you!

4

Our next stop is the Bank of Finland - where all central monetary deposits in Finland are held. From here, we have a connection that links us to World War 2, where we will discuss Finlands relationship with its military neighbours, friends and adversaries - both old and new.

5

Our next stop is the magnificent Relandersgrund Boat. This stop is more than just a boat, it has important historic connections to Helsinki's past. Great photo stop with views of Uspenski Cathedral, so get your cameras ready!

6

One of the most beautiful hidden districts of Helsinki, Katajonokka is the home of Art Nouveau buildings, in true Finnish National Romantic style. In fact, here we have the 2nd largest collection of Art Nouveau Buildings in Europe (after Riga in Latvia)

7
Stop 7

This Sauna stop has a great view of Kauppatori market stalls, our most central Sauna, and you can also take the boat to Suomenlinna from here. Follow our guides recommendations on places to visit after the tour.

8
Stop 8

Completed in 1868, the grand Uspenski cathedral towers over Helsinki with it's beautiful golden domes, and ornate interior. (subject to opening times) we will visit the cathedral, and take you inside to see what this beautiful architecture has to offer.

9
Stop 9

Our next stop takes us through Esplanadi park - also known as the "living room of Helsinki". This park is at its best in the summer where you will find locals sitting and enjoying the sun, but even outside of summer we can show you some great cafe recommendations, and also give advice on where to see some of the best Finnish Design.

10

From here will see the Central Railway Station - the place where you can take international trains around Finland, and the very heart of Helsinki. We can also take a stop next to the Ateneum National Art Gallery, which has beautiful Neoclassical Architecture.

11
Stop 11

Our final and End Point of the tour will show you several buildings, one of which we can go inside. We won't tell you what this building is yet, as it is a surprise! This district houses our Modern Architecture, which started from the early 1990s, through to 2017. The end point of the tour has a very special Library, "Oodi", which is the perfect place to visit immediately after the tour. You will find here a cafe, toilets, and lots of fun things to explore.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
96 reviews
5★
83
4★
8
3★
3
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.8
252 reviews
5★
227
4★
18
3★
3
2★
0
1★
4

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please note that a moderate level of fitness is required for walking tours - as there are steps to climb, and cobble stone sidewalks. We will be on our feet for around 2-2.5 hours in total.

Meeting point

DECEMBER 2025 MEETING POINT:
CHRISTMAS TREE, SENATE SQUARE
(LOOK FOR THE RED UMBRELLA)

2026 MEETING POINT:
ALEXANDER II STATUE, SENATE SQUARE

Important notes

Look for our guides holding the Red Umbrellas in the Senate square - at your chosen tour tour time. Please arrive a few minutes early, to make the start of the tour.

Google maps (this takes you to the exact location):

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ky17tKgFMv2EowKD8

About Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a vibrant city where modern design meets historic charm. Known for its stunning architecture, lively cultural scene, and proximity to nature, it offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences. The city's design-forward ethos and high quality of life make it a must-visit destination in Northern Europe.

Top Attractions

Suomenlinna

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna is a sea fortress built in the 18th century. It offers a mix of history, nature, and cultural experiences.

Historical Half a day to a full day Free to explore, museums have entry fees

Helsinki Cathedral

An iconic landmark in the heart of Helsinki, the Helsinki Cathedral is known for its neoclassical architecture and white facade.

Architecture 30 minutes to an hour Free to enter

Temppeliaukio Church

Also known as the Rock Church, this unique church is built directly into solid rock and is famous for its stunning interior and acoustic qualities.

Architecture 1 hour Free entry, concerts may have tickets

Linnanmäki Amusement Park

One of the oldest amusement parks in the world, Linnanmäki offers a variety of rides, attractions, and entertainment for all ages.

Entertainment Half a day to a full day Entry is free, tickets required for rides

Ateneum

One of the three major art museums in Helsinki, Ateneum houses a vast collection of Finnish and international art.

Museum 1-2 hours €14 for adults, discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill. A comforting and flavorful dish.

Soup Contains fish, can be made gluten-free

Finnish Meat Pie (Karjalanpiirakka)

A traditional rye pastry filled with rice or barley. Often served with butter and eggs.

Snack Vegetarian, can be vegan without butter

Blood Sausage (Mustamakkara)

A traditional Finnish sausage made with pork blood, barley, and spices. Often served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes.

Main course Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Pulla

A sweet cardamom-flavored bread, often served with coffee. A popular treat in Finnish cafes.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nuuksio National Park Kayaking in the Helsinki archipelago Visiting spas and saunas Enjoying coffee and pastries at a local café Exploring museums and art galleries Attending concerts and performances Swimming in the Helsinki archipelago Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with long daylight hours, festivals, and outdoor activities. The weather is pleasant, and the city comes alive with events and cultural activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Finnish, Swedish
  • Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Helsinki is generally a very safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
  • • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air
  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport • 17 km (10.5 miles) from city center
By train

Helsinki Central Railway Station

By bus

Kamppi Bus Station, Helsinki Central Railway Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trams are a historic and scenic way to get around Helsinki. They are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Helsinki Taxi, Taksi Helsinki

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kamppi Design District Kallio Ullanlinna

Day trips

Nuuksio National Park
25 km (15.5 miles) from Helsinki • Half a day to a full day

A beautiful national park offering hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife. Perfect for outdoor activities and nature lovers.

Porvoo
50 km (31 miles) from Helsinki • Full day

A charming medieval town with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a beautiful riverside setting.

Tallinn, Estonia
85 km (53 miles) from Helsinki • Full day to overnight

A historic city with a well-preserved medieval old town, offering a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.

Festivals

Helsinki Festival • August to September Christmas Market • Late November to December

Pro tips

  • Visit the local markets for a taste of Finnish culture and to buy fresh, local produce
  • Try a traditional Finnish sauna for a unique and relaxing experience
  • Explore the city's design district for a glimpse into Finland's innovative design scene
  • Take a day trip to Nuuksio National Park for a dose of nature and outdoor activities
  • Visit the Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square for a taste of the city's historic architecture
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 1-100
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
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Free cancellation available
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