Kruununhaka Walk (Self Guided), Helsinki

Visiting Kruununhaka is like going on a fantastic trip back to the past. The captivating neighborhood is situated in Helsinki’s historical center, in the oldest part of the city. Many of the buildings date back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries. They are in a good state of preservation and were built by some of the best architects and designers of their day. The area got its name from the harbor garden where the king used to graze his horses.

While you are here, make a point of stopping by Sederholm House, the oldest house in Helsinki. The two-story stone building in Senate Square was constructed in 1757 and was once the house of an exceedingly rich merchant. It was also one of the plushest Helsinki homes of its time, and today is a museum offering fascinating insights into aspects of the city’s past.

As you tour the area, note the many fabulous staircases. They hail from separate eras and feature a number of different styles, including Jugend, Classical and Neo-Renaissance.In keeping with the historical vibe, the neighborhood also draws visitors to its collection of funky vintage shops. Kruununhaka also has its very own island, called Tervasaari. It is connected to the mainland via a short road.