Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group

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

About this experience

Would you like to explore Helsinki like a local? Keep on reading!

Forget those crowded and impersonal touristy tours and join this walking tour to experience Helsinki in a fun and informative way. All the tours are be led by me, Jonna, a local helsinkian and the founder of Rento Helsinki Tours.

You’ll get to explore Helsinki’s sights at an easy-going pace and learn about the country’s history, culture, and society. You’ll get to ask all of your questions, and as the group size is limited to 8, you’ll get more interaction with your guide. You’ll hear stories that only a person born and raised in Finland would know about. After the tour, you’ll know why is there a statue of a Russian Czar in the most famous square of Helsinki? Is Finland really the happiest country in the world? When do Finns gather in the market square to swim in a fountain? What’s the “unicorn block”? Is Finnish that difficult to learn?

Join this tour to get a real idea of Helsinki, instead of the touristic one!

Available options

Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group

What's included

Native guide's service

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The most important square of the city and the postcard view of Helsinki. Here we'll see the Helsinki Cathedral, the old Senate, the University of Helsinki, the National Library and the Statue of Alexander the II. On the Senate Square you'll learn about Helsinki's past, how did the city develop from a tiny fisherman town into a bustling capital of Finland?

2
Stop 2

Helsinki's main sight, the mighty Helsinki Cathedral, inaugurated in 1852. Join this tour and you'll learn anecdotes about this famous building. The architect of Helsinki Cathedral actually hated Helsinki, what's the deal with that?What's the major religion of Finland? When do Finns gather to do picnics at the staircase in front of the cathedral?

3

The Bank of Finland, a building from 1883 right behind the Helsinki Cathedral. Here you'll meet te statue J.V Snellman, a 19th century poet and philosopher who influenced heavily to the nationalistic movement of pre-independent Finland.
You'll also learn, why is there big bullet holes in Snellman's statue?

4

The House of the Estate is a stunning neo-renassaince building, were the different estates of 19th century Finland gathered to discuss politics. On this stop, you'll learn about Finland's political system.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

The largest Orthodox Cathedral of North-Western Europe. Why is is located in a Lutheran country though?

6

This stop is dedicated to talk about SAUNA. Finns favorite past time, and that one thing that all the Finns share love towards. You'll learn about the importance of saunas in our every day life, and also you'll learn what is the sauna etiquette.

7
Stop 7

The famous Helsinki Market Square. Loved among tourists and locals. We'll pass through the market, and talk about Finnish Gastronomy. In the market square you'll also see the President's Palace and the Helsinki City Hall.

8
Stop 8

Picturesque Parisian style park in the heart of Helsinki. Here you'll meet the statue that seagulls love the most.

9
Stop 9

Helsinki Central Railway Station from 1919, by a famous Finnish architect, Eliel Saarinen. We'll pass by it and comment about the wide and incredible railway network of Finland. On the Railway Square you'll also see our National Gallery, Ateneum and the National Theater of Finland.

10
Stop 10

The last (and the best) stop of the tour. Oodi Central Library is considered one of the best public libraries of the world, and for me personally, I consider it my second living room. Have you ever seen a library with recording studios, 3-D printers, lunch restaurant, boardgames and sawing machines? Not to forget the books obviously. To finish the tour, you'll get an extensive library tour, and I promise you'll be amazed by this library.

What's not included

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
84 reviews
5★
84
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
71 reviews
5★
71
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In the middle of Senate Square, in front of the Alexander II statue. Guide has a black beanie and a blue sign saying "Helsinki Walking Tour".

Please note there might be other tours starting at the square same time. I'll always wear a black beanie and hold the blue sign.

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 18-100
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook