Entire neighborhoods in Helsinki exude the magnificent forms, colors and materials of the Art Nouveau movement that flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. On the global scale, Helsinki is a unique city of Art  Nouveau architecture, boasting no less than 600  “Jugend” buildings and four districts entirely dominated by this extraordinary architecture – more even than in Barcelona or Brussels. Compared to other countries, Art Nouveau in Helsinki is far from being just an architecture style, as architecture assumed an important political role in the way it strengthened the national identity, 

When admiring the numerous Art Nouveau buildings and streets in Helsinki, the mystical world of the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, with its ancient symbolism and intricate trees, flowers and forest creatures, becomes palpable and springs to life. Beyond their mere aesthetic beauty, many of the details, the windows, stairways and doors with all their fairy tale qualities, carry secret messages and your guide will point out the deeper meanings in their ancient symbolism.

 On this tour, we will explore some of the most iconic buildings like Pohjolatalo, the National Theater, Vanha Poli, and Kallio Church, and visit Art Nouveau districts like Katajanokka, Kruununhaka and Eira. The National Museum will be part of the tour after its reopening in 2027. We will use the tram to span distances and take walks through some of the most beautiful streets to get a close look at the details and savor their unique atmosphere. Inside visits opening hours permitting.