How long does it take to walk through Kruununhaka?

A typical self-guided walk through Kruununhaka takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This allows time to admire the architecture on Pohjoisranta and explore the park at Tervasaari.

Is Kruununhaka worth visiting?

Yes, it is essential for those wanting to see the authentic, quieter side of Helsinki. It offers a unique look at the city's 19th-century transition from a small town to a capital, away from the main commercial crowds.

Can I see the oldest house in Helsinki on this route?

Yes, the Burgher's Home at Kristianinkatu 12 is a primary stop. Built in 1818, it is the oldest wooden building remaining in its original spot in the central city area.

Is the Kruununhaka walking route accessible?

The route is very accessible as the terrain is mostly flat. The sidewalks are wide and well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and most wheelchair users.

What is the best time for a neighborhood stroll in Kruununhaka?

Afternoon is ideal, as the sun illuminates the historic Art Nouveau facades along the Pohjoisranta waterfront. Weekdays are especially quiet and local in feel.

Are there places to eat in Kruununhaka?

Yes, Liisankatu is home to several charming local cafes and small restaurants. There is also a well-known restaurant located on Tervasaari island at the end of the walk.

Where does this self-guided walk start?

The walk begins at the Military Museum of Manège on Maurinkatu, which is easily reachable by Tram 7 from the Helsinki city center.

What is Tervasaari known for?

Tervasaari, or 'Tar Island,' was historically used for storing tar barrels. Today, it is a beautiful public park offering some of the best sea views in the city.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the bustling Senate Square and enter the serene, aristocratic world of Kruununhaka. Known to locals as 'Krunikka,' this neighborhood is the oldest district in Helsinki and serves as a living museum of architectural evolution. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a side of the city often missed by those sticking to the main tourist trails. Here, the streets are lined with grand Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau buildings that whisper stories of the Finnish elite, scholars, and civil servants who have called this area home for centuries. On this neighborhood stroll, you will discover the unique harmony between urban elegance and maritime tranquility. The route takes you from the sturdy brick walls of military history to the delicate wooden structures that survived the city's modernization. You will experience the majestic Pohjoisranta waterfront, where some of the city's most expensive real estate overlooks the Baltic Sea and Finland's famous icebreaker fleet. As you navigate the grid-like streets, you will find hidden courtyards that offer a quiet sanctuary from the city's pace. This walking route Helsinki enthusiasts love is not just about the grand facades; it is about the small details. From the oldest wooden house in the city center to the peaceful causeway leading to Tervasaari island, the journey highlights the layers of Helsinki's identity. Whether you are interested in the maritime heritage of the Customs House square or the academic atmosphere near the university buildings, this self-guided adventure provides the flexibility to linger at a cozy local cafe or spend extra time photographing the ornate doorways of Liisankatu. By the time you reach the final stop on the island of Tervasaari, you will have experienced the true soul of Helsinki—a blend of stoic history and refreshing natural beauty.

Highlights

The grand Art Nouveau architecture of Pohjoisranta

The Burgher's Home, the oldest wooden house in central Helsinki

Panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and the icebreaker fleet

The peaceful island park of Tervasaari

Stately 19th-century military and maritime landmarks

Quiet inner courtyards hidden behind Neo-Renaissance facades

Tour Stops (6)

Military Museum of Manège

Welcome to the starting point of your self-guided walk in Kruununhaka. This sturdy brick building, the Manège, was originally built in the 1880s as a training hall for the Russian cavalry stationed here. It represents the long military history of the district, which served as a garrison area for decades. Today, it stands as a reminder of the era when Finland was an autonomous Grand Duchy of the Russian Empire. Take a moment to admire the functional yet imposing architecture, which sets the tone for the historical depth of the neighborhood you are about to explore. This area has transitioned from a site of military drills to a peaceful residential and cultural hub.

Meritullintori

As you move toward the water, you arrive at Meritullintori, or the Customs House Square. This area was once the beating heart of Helsinki's maritime trade. The most prominent building here is the Old Customs House, designed by Gustaf Nyström in the late 19th century. Its red-brick architecture is iconic to the Helsinki seafront. Imagine the tall ships docking here, unloading goods from across the Baltic. The square has served as a transition point between the sea and the city for generations. Notice the intricate masonry and the way the building commands the corner, signaling the wealth and importance of the customs office in Helsinki's early development.

Pohjoisranta

Pohjoisranta, or the North Shore, is arguably one of the most beautiful streets in Helsinki. The row of residential buildings here is a masterpiece of National Romanticism and Art Nouveau styles. Many of these structures were built for the city's wealthy elite at the turn of the 20th century. Look across the water to see the island of Katajanokka and, if the season is right, the massive Finnish icebreakers docked nearby. These ships are essential for keeping Finland's trade routes open during the deep winter. The contrast between the ornate, historic apartments and the industrial strength of the ships perfectly captures the dual nature of Helsinki's character.

Liisankatu

Turn into Liisankatu, the main artery of Kruununhaka. This street is named after Empress Elizabeth of Russia, reflecting the neighborhood's imperial past. As you walk, observe the specialized local shops, antique dealers, and quiet cafes that give this area its local charm. Liisankatu has a distinct academic and intellectual vibe, partly due to its proximity to the University of Helsinki. The architecture here is a mix of grand residential blocks and institutional buildings. It is a great place to spot the 'hidden' nature of the neighborhood; many of the large wooden doors lead to beautiful, private inner courtyards that have remained virtually unchanged for a hundred years.

The Burgher's Home

You are standing before the Burgher's Home on Kristianinkatu. Built in 1818, this is the oldest wooden house in the Helsinki city center that remains in its original location. While much of Helsinki was rebuilt in stone and brick to prevent fires, this small, humble dwelling survived. It offers a stark contrast to the grand stone palaces on the neighboring streets. It provides a rare glimpse into the everyday life of a middle-class family in the early 19th century. The small courtyard and the simple wooden fence evoke a time when Helsinki was still a small, provincial town before it blossomed into a grand capital city.

Tervasaari

Your walking route concludes on Tervasaari, or 'Tar Island.' Connected to the mainland by a long causeway, this island was historically used to store barrels of tar, one of Finland's most important exports in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the tar storehouses have been replaced by a lush park and a popular restaurant. It is a favorite spot for locals to walk their dogs or enjoy a picnic. From the edge of the island, you have a magnificent view of the harbor and the surrounding archipelago. It is the perfect place to sit, reflect on the history you've discovered, and enjoy the sea breeze that defines life in Helsinki.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Kruununhaka neighborhood stroll is widely considered the best for history enthusiasts. It covers the city's oldest wooden house, imperial Russian-era architecture, and maritime heritage in a compact, 1.5-mile route.