Helsinki ‘Runseeing Tour’: Landmarks, Parks, Waterfront!

This route features waterfront, parks and some of Helsinki’s main sights. A good option to start your run is at Esplanadi street in front of the Swedish Theater. Run down Helsinki’s famous Esplanade (popular shopping area, very festive!), and LEFT on Unioninkatu, to the landmark Helsinki Cathedral on Senate Square. Continue your run east to Katajanokka, where you will see another major cathedral, the Russian-Byzantine style Uspenski Cathedral. The next section is a ~3 km loop around Katajanokka Island, marked by the SkyWheel, following the main waterfront paths/roads (Kanavakatu). Come off the island by Kauppatori Market Square and see the Presidential Palace on your right. Head south along the waterfront path (passing several embassy buildings) towards Kaivopuisto Park, which has a lovely waterfront setting and some paths leading up small hills for some great views. In this 1.5 km section, you have the option of paths through the park or along the water. For the final 2 km, run inland toward the city center along paths through some green spaces including Helsinginniemenpuistikko and the Juhani Aho sculpture, through Ullanlinna and Eira, one of the most prestigious neighborhoods of the city, returning to Esplanadi.