Guided Tours
These guided tours will help create unique, lifelong memories, ensuring you get the most out of every single moment.
Helsinki was founded in 1550 by a Swedish king, and then was relocated to its present location in 1640. Starting in 1809, Helsinki was gradually rebuilt by the Russian Tzars who wanted their Grand Duchy to look more European, becoming the capital city of Finland in 1812, and remaining the capital when Finland gained its independence 6 December 1917. The architecture of the buildings have changed through time, and through all of the bad times which were gradually replaced by the good times - peaceful prosperity - Finns turned their social and political intellect towards their national identity.
“Swedes we are not, Russians we do not want to become, let us then be Finns.”
Philosopher Johan Snellman (1806 - 1881) was credited with this expression, encapsulating the Fennoman movement which began in the early 1800s, to raise the Finnish language and philosophy from its colonial and subordinate status to the position of an honoured and proud historical and national Finnish identity.
And they succeeded, and the Fennoman movement carries on into the present day.
On these guided tours, as you walk or drive along their streets, see their buildings, statues and monuments, you will also hear their many stories.
Guided Tours: All tours are conducted in native English; follow this link to the tour guide
“Helsinki Highlights Walking Tour” [duration to be decided]
From Sibelius Monument to the Rock Church to Finlandia-talo to Senate Square, and every point in between, you'll see the most iconic places in Helsinki and learn a bit about the people and events that inspired them.
“History and Archaeology” [duration to be decided]
For those who want to explore Helsinki by linking its history to the archaeological artefacts which can be found throughout the city. Others will see a monument, building and place as an object of curiosity, on this tour you'll understand why it's there and how it's connected to the Finnish identity and the wider Fennoman movement.
“Castles and Fortresses” [duration to be decided]
Helsinki was founded in 1550, and for two reasons: Intimidation, because the Swedish King wanted a competitor to Tallinn, a settlement involved in the Hanseatic League; and, War, to protect Finland (a Swedish colony) from an attack from Russia. From the construction of Suomenlinna and Vallisaari island fortresses started in 1748 to the WWI Land Fortifications built around Helsinki from 1914 to 1918 to protect it from probable German Army attack during WWI, this city has always been involved in European and World conflict and the castles and fortresses still show. Helsinki still is on the frontier, holding the line for Northern Europe.
To book a tour, contact me and we can discuss the details:
+358 41 501 1103
If you need a bus or some other form of transportation, just let me know and one can be booked for you.