Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group

Helsinki, FI
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (155 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Native guide's service

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Snacks

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.

Meeting point

00170 Helsinki , Finland

End point

End Point

We'll finish in front of the Central Library of Helsinki, it's a 5-minute walk from the Railway Station and a 15-minute walk from the starting point of the tour.

Meeting point

Töölönlahdenkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki , Finland

End point

What to expect

1
Senate Square

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?

Duration 15 minutes
2
Helsinki Cathedral

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?

Duration 5 minutes
3

The Bank of Finland

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?

Duration 10 minutes
4
Saatytalo

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.

Duration 5 minutes
5
Uspenski Cathedral

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

6

Allas Sea Pool

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.

Duration 5 minutes
7
Kauppatori

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.

Duration 15 minutes
8
Esplanadi Park

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

Duration 5 minutes
9

Helsinki Central Railway Station

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.

Duration 5 minutes
10
Central Library Oodi

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.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Rento Helsinki Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local pastries at Kauppatori Market.
  • icon
    Visit nearby Esplanadi Park for a stroll.
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    Check out the Central Library Oodi's events.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning sights.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into the vibrant city of Helsinki and experience it like a true local with the Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group. Led by Jonna, a knowledgeable local helsinkian and the founder of Rento Helsinki Tours, this tour offers a fun and informative exploration of the city's sights at an easy-going pace. Say goodbye to crowded and impersonal touristy tours and embrace an authentic journey through Helsinki's history, culture, and society.

What to expect?

During this 150-minute tour, you can anticipate a comprehensive itinerary that covers the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Helsinki. Starting at the iconic Senate Square, you'll be captivated by the Helsinki Cathedral, the old Senate, the University of Helsinki, the National Library, and the Statue of Alexander the II. Explore the fascinating stories behind these landmarks and delve into Helsinki's transformation from a tiny fisherman town to a bustling capital. As you continue your adventure, you'll discover the secrets of the Helsinki Cathedral and the major religion of Finland. Uncover the historical significance of the Bank of Finland, admire the stunning neo-renaissance Saatytalo, and ponder over the Orthodox Uspenskin Cathedral in a Lutheran country. Learn about the Finnish passion for saunas, explore the famous Helsinki Market Square, and relax in the picturesque Esplanadi Park. The tour concludes at the remarkable Central Library Oodi, where you'll be amazed by its state-of-the-art facilities.

Who is this for?

Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, this walking tour is designed to cater to all curious explorers. It's ideal for those who want to go beyond the typical touristic experience and gain a genuine understanding of Helsinki. From history enthusiasts to architecture admirers, this tour appeals to a wide range of interests. Everyone, from first-time visitors to frequent travelers, can benefit from Jonna's local insights and engaging storytelling.

Why book this?

What sets the Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group apart from the rest is the intimate setting of a limited group size. With only eight participants, you'll have ample opportunities to interact with Jonna, ask questions, and delve deeper into the local culture. This personalized experience ensures a more meaningful connection with Helsinki and a memorable journey that goes beyond surface-level tourism.

Good to know

It's important to note that the meeting point is at the middle of Senate Square, easily recognizable by the Alexander II statue. Look out for Jonna wearing a black cap and holding a blue sign saying "Helsinki Walking Tour." While there might be other tours starting at the square, you won't miss Jonna's distinctive attire.

Reviews

Those who have embarked on the Helsinki Walking Tour - Small Group have praised Jonna's extensive knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to bring Helsinki's history to life. Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to explore the city at a leisurely pace and engage in meaningful conversations about Finland's culture. Overall, participants have left the tour feeling enriched and genuinely connected to Helsinki, making it a highly recommended experience for anyone seeking an authentic encounter with this fascinating city.

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