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Kallio Tour

Dive into the vibrant history of Kallio, Helsinki’s old working-class district.

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About the Tour

A journey to the other side of the bridge.

Kallio has always been rough around the edges and a world away from the centres of power. Also has been a hotbed for political and social justice, with the world’s first female minister of parliament residing in the area, the first female Finnish president born and raised there and the first library in Finland to have an LGBTQ bookshelf.

We will discuss Finland’s difficult experience with Prohibition as well as the foundations for the Finnish welfare state which has helped give Finland one of the highest qualities of life in the world.

Join me for a walk through the other side of Helsinki’s history, the story of struggle, the fight for rights and the more controversial side of Helsinki.

Duration: 2 hours

Explore Kallio, the old working-class district of Helsinki, in approximately 2 hours.

Distance: 2,5 Km

The terrain is flat at the beginning, containing one large hill and a couple of uphill roads.

Age: Older children and adults

As there will be some discussion about drugs, alcohol, prostitution.

Tour Itinerary

  1. 1Hakaniemi Square
  2. 2Boxers Statue
  3. 3Workers’ House
  4. 4The Torch
  5. 5Heikki Häiväoja
  6. 6Linjat
  7. 7Kallio Church
  8. 8Karhupuisto
  9. 9Kallio Library
  10. 10Matti Heleniuksen puisto
  11. 11Torkkelinpuistikko
  12. 12Kotiharjun Sauna
  13. 13Harjutori

What they say about

ed helsinki

I had a great time! Ed was a class guide, really fun and informative. I’d definitely recommend this tour if you want to learn about Finland in an engaging way.
Conn
Had a change over flight in Helsinki and Ed has made my day 100% recommend, you would be missing out if you don’t try out this tour. Very friendly and funny also learnt a lot.
Eddy
Had a very pleasant time with Ed walking around Helsinki. He had a very cheery attitude, and was very knowledgeable about the city’s history and monuments.
Elisa
Ed was very professional and charismatic, the tour was very nice even though the minus 13 Celsius degrees that we had, highly recommend
Azael
Our guide Ed was fantastic! Very well-prepared, educated, he has not only showed us a nice part of the city, but also gave a lot of hints to the further discovery of Helsinki and Finland.
Tatiana
Ed was an awesome tourguide, very knowledgeable, energetic and always happy to help. Thank you for a great tour and intro to Finland!
Niklas

Questions

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Answers

What topics are covered in the Kallio Tour?

The Kallio Tour covers a range of topics, including the district’s political and social activism, the struggles for social justice, the history of prohibition in Finland, and the foundations of the Finnish welfare state.

How long is the Kallio Tour?

The Kallio Tour typically lasts approximately 2 hours, offering ample time to explore Helsinki’s old working-class district, notable landmarks and to delve into its fascinating history and all the stories.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The Kallio Tour is not age appropriate for younger children. Older children and adults are welcome to join since during the tour we will discuss mature topics such as drugs, alcohol, prostitution and other controversial topics.

How much walking is involved in the tour?

The Kallio Tour covers approximately 2,5 kilometers. The terrain is flat at the beginning, containing one large hill and a couple of uphill roads. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, but participants of all fitness levels should find the route manageable. Please check the weather forecast beforehand as well.