TAITO: The Helsinki Design, Industry & Architecture Walking Tour

Helsinki, Finland
Duration2h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Overview

Join on an exciting tour that takes you through the city, exploring Finnish design and architecture while learning about the industries that have built the country. Learn about the connections between Finnish and Japanese design and culture, discover the unique architecture and architects that make Helsinki what it is, as well as Finnish designers, illustrators, children's authors, and more. Learn about Russian, Swedish, and German influence on the city and how both local and foreign culture shaped its design and planning, not just physically but socially.

Finnish design and industry are among the most notable and internationally significant exports from Finland to the world. It touches everything, from architecture to Star Wars, from shipbuilding to Supercell. The Helsinki Design District houses some of the most unique Finnish businesses and buildings, and the Helsinki harbour is part of a long history of shipbuilding Finnish ingenuity, modern gentrification and more.

What's included

  • Unique Helsinki Design and Architecture tour
  • Insight into Finnish industry and culture
  • Experienced local tour guide and natural storyteller
  • We will not attend inside attractions

What to expect

  1. Academic Bookstore (Akateeminen Kirjakauppa)
    10m
    Who was the father of Finnish Architecture and Design and what was his philosophy?
  2. The Statue of Eino Leino
    5m
    What was the Finnish National Romantic movement and how did it shape Finnish architecture and design?
  3. Havis Amanda
    10m
    How did French culture shape Helsinki and why is Amanda so important now?
  4. 10m
    How did a military installation define a neighbourhood and what are the two most important architectural styles surrounding it?
  5. Design Museum
    Pass by
    What was the design museum built for, how was it a part of the life of a very famous Finnish artist and why was it important?
  6. Pass by
    How does German architecture play a role in the fight for independence and why was the church a stand against an empire?
  7. Mikael Agricola Church (Mikael Agricolan kirkko)
    5m
    Which member of the church defined Finnish written language and how does the church itself protect against Russian invasion?
  8. 10m
    Discover the industry that built the city and learn how Finnish ingenuity overcame a difficult winter obstacle.
  9. 10m
    Why did Russian industrialists build and English garden and what impact did they have on Helsinki industry and art?
  10. 5m
    How did demilitarisation affect the national opera house and why did a friend of the Tsar make it his life's work?

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The corner of Keskuskatu and Aleksanterinkatu, between Stockmann and Marimekko. You will recognise me by the Orkney flag I'm holding (red with a yellow-blue cross).

End point

The tour will end 5 minutes from the start point in Espanladi outside the Swedish Theatre.

Additional 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
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
€30.00 per person
Check availability & book
  • 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.
More activities in Helsinki
From
€30.00 per person
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