Helsinki Shore Excursion

This Helsinki shore trip provides a glimpse into Helsinki's past and present. You enjoy a driving tour with photo stops at the city's icons, plus you visit the popular Temppeliaukio Rock Church and the Sibelius Monument.

After meeting your licensed guide you immediately begin your driving tour of Helsinki, which is a rather modern city becuase it was largely rebuilt after a terrible fire in 1808. The city also prides iteself on its parks and open spaces which make up nearly one third of the city.

Driving along the sea front you see the famous Market Square where vendors sell fresh fish, flowers, vegetables and more.

In the heart of the city you have a photo stop at Senate Square which is lined with several Neoclassical buildings including the Presidential Palace, Helsinki University and Helsinki Cathedral. In the center of the square is a statue of Alexander II, the Czar of Russia and Grand Duke of Finland.

On Mannerheim Street, Helsinki's main street, you see the National Museum and Finlandia Hall, designed by the famous architect Alvar Aalto, amd the Opera House. Another impressive sights is the Parliament building which has a facade that includes 14 Corinthian columns.

Next you visit one the Helsinki's most popular sites, the Temppeliaukio Rock Church, which is considered one of Europe's most unique churches. It is carved out of solid rock in the side of the mountain and topped by a copper dome.

Before you tour is complete you also enjoy a stop at another of Helsinki's popular landmarks, the Sibelius Monument. This monument, located in a Sibelius Park, resembles a giant pipe organ and honors the famed Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.