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Start Point: Senate Square
The statue of Tsar Alexander the 2nd in the center of the Senate Square, marks the start point of the tour. This is the most historical part of Helsinki, and some say the most beautiful - with it's Russian Neoclassic architecture. Here we can see the Helsinki Cathedral, the University of Helsinki, and a great viewpoint of the Senate Square for photos.
2. Helsinki Cathedral
Following our visit to the Senate Square, our next stop is the White Helsinki Cathedral. Perhaps one of the most impressive buildings in Helsinki, it is also the most visited building. We will allow a little time to visit inside (providing there are no services or weddings), and we will allow time to take photos of this building so you have a souvenir to take home.
3. The National Library of Finland
National Library of Finland is nestled in the very heart of the Senate Square, and has an impressive interior. This treasure trove of knowledge and culture, houses manuscripts, rare books and exhibitions. We will allow time to visit inside, if the groups aren't too big, and if the library is open (on week days). Otherwise we have photos of the magnificent interior to show you!
4. The Bank of Finland
Our next stop is the Bank of Finland - where all central monetary deposits in Finland are held. From here, we have a connection that links us to World War 2, where we will discuss Finlands relationship with its military neighbours, friends and adversaries - both old and new.
5. Relandersgrund Boat
Our next stop is the Relandersgrund Boat. This stop is more than just a boat, it has important historic connections to Helsinki's past. Great photo stop with views of Uspenski Cathedral, so get your cameras ready!
6. Katajonokka (Art Nouveau District)
Traditionally the slums of Helsinki, Katajonokka is now the most expensive area to live in Helsinki, and houses the second largest collection of beautiful Art Nouveau Architecture in Western Europe! See how Finland broke free from Russias russification policies in the late 19th century, and nowadays where the locals of Helsinki really live.
7. Market Square
This Sauna stop has a great view of Kauppatori market stall, our most central Sauna, and you can also take the boat to Suomenlinna from here. Follow our guides recommendations on places to visit after the tour.
8. Uspenski Cathedral Orthodox Church
One of the most impressive stops of the tour - and an opportunity to visit the largest Orthodox Church in Western Europe. On certain days it is even possible to visit inside, which we will warmly encourage you to do. From here you will also have a great viewpoint of Helsinki on a clear day.
9. Esplanadi Park
Our next stop takes us through Esplanadi park - also known as the "living room of Helsinki". This park is at its best in the summer where you will find locals sitting and enjoying the sun, but even outside of summer we can show you some great cafe recommendations, and also give advice on where to see some of the best Finnish Design.
10. Railway Square + Ataneum Art Gallery
From here will see the Central Railway Station - the place where you can take international trains around Finland, and the very heart of Helsinki. We can also take a stop next to the Ateneum National Art Gallery, which has beautiful Neoclassical Architecture.
END POINT: Oodi Library & Finnish Modern Architecture/END POINT
Our final and End Point of the tour will show you several buildings, one of which we can go inside. We won't tell you what this building is yet, as it is a surprise! This district houses our Modern Architecture, which started from the early 1990s, through to 2017. The end point of the tour has a very special Library, "Oodi", which is the perfect place to visit immediately after the tour. You will find here a cafe, toilets, and lots of fun things to explore.
TOUR ROUTE
We want to show and recommend the MOST POPULAR PLACES in Helsinki, along with some of our PERSONAL FAVOURITES - as recommended by our local guides. Here are the places we will visit! (Subject to opening times)
(READY TO BOOK YOUR PLACE? CLICK HERE!)
START POINT: Alexander II Statue, Senate Square
END POINT: Oodi Library
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