A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Helsinki's Historical Highlights

5.0 (2 reviews) Helsinki, Finland
Duration1h 20m - 1h 40m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

On this self-guided walking tour, you'll stroll through the cultural heart of Helsinki in search of legends and landmarks. Helsinki Tours will show you around the city, share insights into its historical ties to Sweden and Russia, and fill you in on Finnish culture.

On this tour, you'll learn how to decode the symbolism hidden in the Alexander II sculpture, taking in the impressive Allas Sea Pool and SkyWheel, and strolling through the most famous park in Finland, Esplanade Park, which serves as the green heart of Helsinki. Additionally, explore the "Kappeli" restaurant, beloved by poets, writers, and artists in the 1900s, and learn about Johan Ludvig Runeberg, a renowned Finnish author, poet, and priest with Swedish roots.

This immersive, self-tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience Finnish history while enjoying a glorious stroll in the heart of Helsinki!

What's included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
  • Smartphone and headphones

What to expect

  1. Senate Square
    Pass by
    Begin your exploration of Helsinki in Senate Square, the city's vibrant political, religious, scientific, and commercial center, overlooked by the iconic Helsinki Cathedral.
  2. Helsinki Cathedral
    Pass by
    Admire the grandeur of Helsinki Cathedral, a symbol of Finnish national identity and one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
  3. Helsinki City Museum
    Pass by
    Learn about Helsinki's rich history and culture at the Helsinki City Museum, housed in one of the city's oldest buildings, with approximately 1.5 million artifacts.
  4. Pass by
    Marvel at the Presidential Palace, a historic landmark transformed from a salt warehouse into the official residence of the President of Finland.
  5. Pass by
    Discover the beauty of Uspenski Cathedral, the largest orthodox church in Western Europe, and learn about its fascinating history and architecture.
  6. Pass by
    Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Market Square, a vibrant hub of activity where locals gather to shop, dine, and socialize.
  7. Old Market Hall
    Pass by
    Explore Helsinki's Old Market Hall, a historic landmark dating back to the late 19th century, and discover how the First World War and the Finnish Civil War impacted it.
  8. Havis Amanda
    Pass by
    Admire the bronze statue of Havis Amanda, a beloved symbol of Helsinki, and hear the intriguing story behind its creation and significance.
  9. Swedish Theater (Svenska Teatern)
    Pass by
    Discover the Swedish Theatre, Svenska Teatern, and learn about its cultural importance and current status as a prominent cultural institution in Helsinki.
  10. Three Smiths Statue
    Pass by
    Pass by the historic Three Blacksmiths statue and learn about its significance in Finnish folklore and tradition.
  11. Pass by
    Stroll down Aleksanterinkatu, one of Helsinki's main shopping streets, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
  12. Pass by
    End your tour near the Nordea Bank Museum, where you'll have gained a deeper understanding of Finnish history, culture, and architecture.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts at Senate Square.

End point

The tour ends at the main building of Helsinki University.

Additional information

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (2)
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$11.99 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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