Half-Day Walking Tour around Helsinki with Arto

Helsinki , Finland

Half-Day Walking Tour around Helsinki with Arto

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(36 reviews)

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About this experience

You know how nice it is to have even a distant friend in a strange city? Even though you would not stay at their house, he´s that one lovely friend who´ll show you the best spots, who takes you behind the scenes and really helps you to experience the city the way the locals enjoy their home town.

Join me for a tour and you´ll always have such a friend in Helsinki.

I´m an authorised Helsinki tour guide and a world traveller. Learning and understanding new cultures has always been exciting for me. As an easygoing personality, I always enjoy meeting new people from all over the world.

You are welcome to attend just as you are.

It makes me so happy to welcome you to My City <3

Available options

Half-Day Walking Tour around Helsinki with Arto

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Senate Square is on of our main venues in the city and it´s located in the heart of the Government District. We´ll meet here to start the tour.

Stop 2

The top sight and landmark for Helsinki City.

Helsinki University is our largest and oldest university in the country. We´ll discuss the higher education system in more detail.

Stop 4

This station is awarded to be the "World´s most beautiful railway station" back in 2013 by the BBC.

We´ll learn of the pivotal role of the first plays, written by our national author and which were performed here.

Stop 6 Pass by

An essential building in our history which is part of our National Art Gallery.

Stop 7

The main library of Helsinki, built for the Finland´s centennial and to be the living room for the citizens.

Stop 8

Built in 1931, still standing strong to house our entire legislative branch of government.

Stop 9

Finished in 2018, this almost 200-million-euro state of the art concert hall is our musical crown jewel. We´ll pop inside to enjoy the beautiful architecture and to have a small break.

Stop 10 Pass by

Centrally located this Art Museum houses always such fascinating exhibitions and pieces of art.

We´ll learn about the role of our former military commander, Field Marshal C.G. Mannerheim in our nation´s history and current day.

We´ll learn about the amazing and unique architecture of this Art Museum, and it´s essential role in preserving our Swedish speaking minority culture in the country.

Our oldest department store has been in existence for over 160 years. We´ll learn more about the great families of Swedish decent still affluent in Finland.

Another just amazingly beatiful building from our national romantic era. We´ll learn more about the origin and history of the unique Finnish language.

Stop 15 Pass by

Our most beloved park in the heart of the Helsinki.

The Statue of the Seamaiden "Havis Amanda" has been for over a century, and still is in this very day, an important part of our culture. We´ll learn why.

Stop 17

Helsinki´s #1 Market Square which has stood the grounds for centuries. We´ll also see the Uspenski Cathedral, Allas Sea Pool, Helsinki City Hall and many other sights from this vantage point.

Stop 18

We´ll finish the tour where we started, so it´s easy to stay oriented within the city during the tour and continue your city adventure from a familiar location with a lot more ideas and inspiration to do.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We´ll meet next to the statue in the middle of the Senate Square. I´ll be wearing an orange neck lanyard with ID-badge for easy recognition.

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