How to Plan Your Helsinki Highlights Tour by Tram and Walking

How to Plan Your Helsinki Highlights Tour by Tram and Walking

Visiting Helsinki and want to see all the best attractions but have limited time? Look no further than the Helsinki Highlights Tour by Tram and Walking. With a local guide leading the way, you can explore the city’s top landmarks while also gaining insight into the city’s culture and history. Here’s what you need to know to plan your perfect Helsinki tour.

Overview

This tour covers Helsinki’s top attractions, including Senate Square, Temppeliaukio Church, and Esplanadi Park. You’ll learn about the city’s culture, cuisine, history, and religion while visiting sights such as Uspenski Cathedral, Market Square, and Finlandia House. And, because you’ll be traveling like a local onboard public transportation, you’ll avoid hidden costs, including entrance fees and tram fare, which are included in the tour price.

What’s Included

The tour includes a local guide, local taxes, lunch, drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point is at Senaatintori, or Senate Square. Look for your guide with a sign of Alexander II by the statue of Alexander II.

Tour Schedule

The tour starts at 10:00 am, and you meet your guide at Senate Square. Here’s what you can expect throughout the day:

10:00 am – 11:00 am: Senate Square

You’ll meet your guide, and they will provide you with useful insider tips for the rest of your visit. You’ll then explore Helsinki’s famous Senate Square, where you can see iconic landmarks such as the Helsinki Cathedral.

11:00 am – 12:00 pm: Tram Ride and Esplanadi Park

Next, you’ll hop on the tram and enjoy a ride around the city, soaking in the local atmosphere. Once you get off, you’ll be in Esplanadi Park, where you can experience the beauty of this legendary green space.

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm: Temppeliaukio Church and Lunch

After exploring the park, it’s time to check out the famous Temppeliaukio Church. This stunning cathedral was built directly into solid rock and is a must-visit attraction in Helsinki. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous lunch in a local restaurant.

1:30 pm – 3:00 pm: Uspenski Cathedral and Market Square

The next stop on your tour is Uspenski Cathedral, which is the biggest orthodox church in Northern Europe. It’s a beautiful building, and you’ll love learning about its history and architecture. After exploring the cathedral, you’ll head to Market Square, where you can sample some of Helsinki’s famous food and drink, including Finnish berries and coffee.

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Finlandia House and Close Out

The final stop on your tour is Finlandia House, which is a concert and congress hall. It’s an impressive building, and you’ll enjoy exploring its unique architecture. After finishing the tour, you’ll head back to the starting point, and your guide will drop you off at your hotel.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re visiting Helsinki and want to make the most out of your trip, the Helsinki Highlights Tour by Tram and Walking is a great option. With this tour, you’ll get to see all the top attractions while also gaining insight into the city’s culture and history. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, located in the southern part of the country. It is a vibrant and modern city with a rich history and culture. Whether you are planning to visit Helsinki for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, here are some frequently asked questions about Helsinki that may be useful to you.

1. What is the best time to visit Helsinki?

Helsinki has four distinct seasons with temperatures ranging from -5°C in winter to 25°C in summer. The best time to visit Helsinki depends on your preferences. If you enjoy winter sports and activities, then you should visit Helsinki between December and February. For those who enjoy the beauty of nature and long days, the best time to visit is between June and August. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and less crowds, then September to November would be an ideal time to visit.

2. How do I get to Helsinki?

Helsinki is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world by air, sea, and land. Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport is the main gateway to the city and serves more than 20 million passengers annually. Finnair is the national airline of Finland and operates flights to various destinations worldwide. Helsinki is also connected by ferry to Tallinn, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg. If you prefer to travel by train, Helsinki has daily connections to several European cities.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Helsinki?

Helsinki has several tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top tourist attractions include:
  • Suomenlinna Fortress
  • Helsinki Cathedral
  • Temppeliaukio Church
  • Uspenski Cathedral
  • Market Square
  • National Museum of Finland
  • Sibelius Monument
  • Ateneum Art Museum
  • Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

4. What is the currency used in Helsinki?

The currency used in Helsinki is the euro. Most businesses in Helsinki accept credit and debit cards, and there are several ATMs throughout the city.

5. What is the official language of Helsinki?

The official language of Helsinki is Finnish, but most Finns speak English fluently. Some of the popular signs and menus in tourist areas are also written in English.

6. What is the food like in Helsinki?

Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity and freshness. Some of the traditional Finnish dishes that you must try in Helsinki include:
  • Salmon soup (Lohikeitto)
  • Meatballs (Lihapullat)
  • Karelian pastries (Karjalanpiirakka)
  • Rye bread (Ruisleipä)
  • Grilled salmon (Grillattu lohi)
  • Lingonberry jam (Puolukkahillo)
  • Cloudberry jam (Hilla-hillo)
  • Salmiakki (Salty Licorice)
Helsinki also has several cafes and restaurants that serve international cuisine, including Asian, European, and American.

7. How is the public transportation system in Helsinki?

Helsinki has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trains, and the metro. The public transportation system is operated by Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL). You can purchase tickets from HSL ticket machines, HSL mobile app, or from HSL service point. If you are planning to use the public transportation system frequently, then it is advisable to purchase a HSL travel card.

8. What are the best day trips from Helsinki?

Helsinki is surrounded by several beautiful destinations that are perfect for day trips. Some of the best day trips from Helsinki include:
  • Porvoo – Known for its colorful wooden houses
  • Nuuksio National Park – Ideal for hiking and nature lovers
  • Turku – Home to one of the oldest settlements in Finland
  • Tallinn – The capital city of Estonia
  • Hanko – Picturesque coastal town

Book Your Tour Now

Helsinki is a fascinating city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food, Helsinki has it all. We hope that this FAQ has answered some of your questions about Helsinki and has helped you plan your trip better. Remember to always check the latest travel guidelines and restrictions before you travel. Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Helsinki!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Helsinki

Helsinki is a popular tourist destination located in Finland, known for its breathtaking architecture, magnificent landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a wide range of activities and experiences that are perfect for tourists to enjoy. In this post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Helsinki. From exploring world-class museums to taking a relaxing stroll along the harbor, Helsinki has something to offer for everyone.

1. Visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is situated on a group of islands off the coast of Helsinki. It was built in the 18th century to protect Helsinki from the Russian Empire. The fortress has an interesting history and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Helsinki. Visitors can take a ferry from Helsinki’s Market Square to Suomenlinna Island, where they can explore the fortress, walk along the ramparts, visit the museums and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Discover Helsinki’s Art Scene

Helsinki has a vibrant art scene with a number of world-class museums and galleries. The Ateneum Art Museum, for instance, is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses an extensive collection of Finnish art from the 19th century to the present day. The museum features works by several famous Finnish artists including Albert Edelfelt, Akseli Gallen-Kallela, and Helene Schjerfbeck. Another notable museum is the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, which is renowned for its outstanding collection of contemporary art.

3. Visit the Uspenski Cathedral

The Uspenski Cathedral is one of the most impressive landmarks in Helsinki. It is located on a hill overlooking the city and is the largest Orthodox church in Western Europe. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, which features beautiful frescoes and mosaics, and enjoy the stunning views of Helsinki from the cathedral’s terrace.

4. Take a Stroll Along the Harbor

The Helsinki harbor is one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the panoramic views of the city skyline. The harbor is always bustling with activity, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Tourists can also take a boat cruise from the harbor and explore the nearby islands.

5. Visit the Market Square

Helsinki’s Market Square is a vibrant outdoor market that sells everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The market is open every day, and there’s always something new to discover. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as smoked fish and Finnish reindeer meat, and browse the many stalls selling souvenirs and other local products.

6. Explore the Design District

Helsinki’s Design District is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and design. The district is home to a number of design studios, fashion boutiques, and galleries. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and explore the many shops and galleries.

7. Visit the Sibelius Monument

The Sibelius Monument is a unique and impressive outdoor sculpture located in Helsinki’s Sibelius Park. The monument is dedicated to the famous composer Jean Sibelius and was designed by Eila Hiltunen. The sculpture consists of more than 600 stainless steel pipes that create a fascinating sound when the wind blows through them.

8. Relax in One of Helsinki’s Saunas

Saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture, and Helsinki is home to some of the best saunas in the world. Visitors can relax in a traditional Finnish sauna, which involves sitting in a hot, steamy room and then plunging into a cold pool. Some of the best saunas in Helsinki include the Kotiharjun Sauna, the Löyly Sauna and the Kulttuurisauna.

Book Your Tour Now

Helsinki is a beautiful and fascinating city that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for tourists to enjoy. From exploring world-class museums to taking a relaxing stroll along the harbor, there’s something for everyone in Helsinki. We hope that this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to Helsinki and that you will have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful city.

How to Plan Your Helsinki Highlights Tour by Tram and Walking