Free tour
Varjo: Dark History and True Crime
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Guru: Helwalk
PRO
Verified quality
Registered on 13 May 2025
Helwalk Helsinki - See something different, hear something new with Helsinki’s most exciting new freetour company! Helwalk tours are guided by Johnny and Laura.
Our founder and guide Johnny is from the archipelago of Orkney in the far north of Scotland. Since he has been living in Finland now for years, he'll show you the city he has chosen to be home from the perspective of both a foreigner and a local. Get the answers to the real questions about Finnish life and culture from a natural-born storyteller!
Laura was born in Helsinki, and will show you her favourite spots in the city and share its best stories! Her special interests include mysteries, true crime, architecture and public transport.
Come and let us show you the sides of Helsinki you wouldn't otherwise see!
Free reservation and cancellation
Pay-what-you-want tour, no set price, reservation and cancellation are free
Tour description
Finland is the happiest country in the world, but its capital also harbours a darker side. Join Helwalk on a tour that takes you through the city centre and hear stories of true crime, war, dark history and more!
Whether you’re a fan of true crime, history, or simply enjoy seeing a city from a new perspective, this tour invites you to look beyond the surface and uncover the secrets that Helsinki still carries. Our walk starts in the Old Church Park, which is colloquially known as “The Plague Park”. Here we will set on a journey that takes us through Finnish history, everything seen through the lens of crime, mystery, and the people who shaped Helsinki’s most notorious stories. The tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see the main sights of Helsinki - The Oodi Library, Botanic Gardens, The Helsinki Cathedral and more - while learning about dark history! We will finish near the Market Square, where you can continue exploring the city and get the best recommendations for your stay.
On our route you will see both modern and historical sides of the city and learn how Helsinki grew from a small Swedish fishing town to a European capital city. Learn about Soviet spies in the heart of Helsinki, how tunnel exploration can end you up in the courtroom and which murder is thought to be the earliest true crime story in Finland! Some of the most mundane spots of the city will reveal their darkest secrets on this tour. Come let us show you a side of Helsinki you haven't seen before!
Highlights
What will we see on this tour?
Meeting point:
Punto de encuentro
I will be waiting for you in the park, near the yellow stone gate. This is on the Southern side of the park, next to the street called Bulevardi. You will recognise me by the Orkney flag I'm holding (red with a yellow-blue cross).
1
Outside visit
Hotel Torni
Now a fancy hotel, but in the 1940s this building was the hotspot of Finnish politics and espionage.
2
Outside visit
The Kamppi Chapel of Silence
Learn about the dark history of churchgoing and how that has affected Finnish architecture!
3
Outside visit
Kansalaistori
One of the best spots in the modern city centre. Learn about civil war and creepy tunnels underground!
How much does this tour cost?
Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.
Who is this tour for?
Accessibility
Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Groups
Does not accept large group bookings.
Pets
Suitable for bringing pets.
What should I know?
Minimum attendees
Requires a minimum of 1 people to conduct the tour.
Additional costs
The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.
Free cancellation
If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.
Payment methods
Electronic or card payment accepted.
Other tours by this guru
Other cities after visiting Helsinki
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