Helsinki Essentials Walking Tour: Sights, History and Culture
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3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Join us on a guided walking tour through the city’s heart, where you'll uncover must-see sights, local legends, and Finnish traditions.
Find out curious info of Finnish culture and history:
- Which parts of the Helsinki Cathedral are improvised?
- Are Finns truly the happiest people in the world?
- How did Finland gain its independence?
- What are Finland's most popular foods and drinks?
- What do Finns love and what do they dislike?
Your adventure begins at Senate Square, surrounded by landmarks like the White Church, the University of Helsinki, and the Government Palace. Explore Old Helsinki, influenced by Russia and Sweden, then stroll through Market Square, a cultural hub with the Uspensky Cathedral and the Presidential Palace. Enjoy a 20-minute break to sample local foods and shop for souvenirs.
Continue along Esplanadi Boulevard, then visit Central Station Square. End at Citizen’s Square, where you’ll explore modern Finnish landmarks, including Oodi, the library of the future.
Available options
Helsinki Essentials Walking Tour: Sights, History and Culture
What's included
Live professional guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Senate Square in Helsinki is a grand, neoclassical plaza that serves as one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by striking architecture, the square is dominated by the majestic Helsinki Cathedral, with its white facade and green dome standing tall above the square. The square also features the Government Palace, the University of Helsinki, and the National Library of Finland, all of which contribute to its historical and architectural significance.
2
Stop 2
The White Cathedral featured in the postcards. It is a Majestic church, with its white facade and green domes standing tall above the square.
3
The House of the Nobility is also called the House of Knights. It a spectacular historical building used is a meeting place for the noble families of Finland.
4
Stop 4
The Largest Orthodox Cathedral in Western Europe.
5
The palace of the leader of the Republic. It houses a special celebration every 6th of December.
6
The most Finnish Thing: Sauna, and everything about it.
7
Stop 7
The Market Square of Helsinki is a showcase of the Finnish culinary ingredients. This is where we will have a 20 minute break and then continue our tour.
8
This statue brings a smile on the face of the Finns due all the happy things it reminds us of.
9
Stop 9
The most central park in Helsinki.
10
The Fazer Café is the starting place of the Willy Wonka of Finland
11
The most unique shopping mall in Helsinki
12
Stop 12
The iconic Helsinki building that connects all of Finland in a very concrete way.
13
Stop 13
Central Library Oodi in Helsinki is a breathtaking masterpiece of modern architecture and innovation, redefining what a library can be. Located in the heart of the city, Oodi is a stunning, futuristic structure that blends seamlessly with the urban landscape. Its open, airy design features vast windows that flood the space with natural light, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for visitors of all ages.
What sets Oodi apart is its dynamic, multi-functional spaces. Beyond being a traditional library, it serves as a cultural hub where creativity, technology, and community come together. The library boasts cutting-edge facilities, including digital studios, a music room, and even a 3D printing lab. The top floor offers a panoramic view of Helsinki and a cozy space for relaxation or work, complete with a café serving delicious local treats.
What's not included
Foods and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.7
36 reviews
5★
30
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
2
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please were proper shoes as we will walk around 3,5 kilometers.
Meeting point
MIddle of the Senate Square, Statue of Alexander II
Important notes
Welcome to the tour! It starts from the round end of the Svenska Teatern (address: Mannerheimintie 1, 00130 Helsinki) at 10am.
Look for a guide with a green cap!
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
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Free cancellation available
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