Helsinki is a city that blends modern innovation with traditional Finnish charm, making it a fantastic place to explore through drinking tours. Whether you’re passionate about tasting Arctic seafood paired with local drinks or want to sample craft beers at a cozy brewery, Helsinki offers some memorable ways to indulge. We’ve identified four standout experiences—each offering a different angle on Helsinki’s vibrant culinary scene and drink culture. Our favorites include a combination of food, spectacular rooftop views, and craft beer insights, providing options for every type of traveler.
The list below features guided food tours with rooftop bar visits, a brewery tour, and even a private culinary adventure. Each experience is designed to highlight Helsinki’s unique flavors, from traditional Finnish dishes to innovative craft brews. To learn more, visit the detailed descriptions linked with each experience.
1. FOOD Tour with Roof Top Bar in Helsinki
If you’re after a comprehensive foodie experience combined with stunning city views, this tour tops the list. Duration varies from about 2 hours to just over 2 hours and ten minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity. The tour kicks off at the elegant Robert’s Coffee Jugend, a beautifully preserved Jugend-style café decorated to match the original architecture. You’ll then stroll through Helsinki’s bustling Old Market Hall, a hub of local produce and tasty treats since 1889.
What sets this tour apart is the balance of culture and culinary sampling. You’ll get to taste Arctic seafood, wild ingredients, seasonal flavors, and Finnish pastries. The final highlight is a visit to the Monkey Rooftop Bar, Helsinki’s most iconic rooftop, where you can enjoy panoramic views and a drink in an atmosphere that feels like an artist’s studio. The reviews consistently praise the seamless blend of food and sightseeing, with many calling it “a great combination of city highlights and food tastings.”
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for food lovers who want a taste of Helsinki’s culinary identity with a memorable view at the end. It’s well-priced for the quality, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible for most.
2. FOOD Tour with Rooftop Bar Visit in Helsinki
For around $117 per person, this 2 to 2.5-hour tour offers a flavorful journey through Helsinki’s top food spots and a spectacular rooftop finale. This tour emphasizes Finnish cuisine’s richness, including tastings like reindeer meat and salmon caviar. It’s designed for those who want an intimate, guided experience with a focus on authentic flavors.
The tour takes you through notable locations such as the Jugend Hall and Old Market Hall, both steeped in culinary tradition. Your guide will share insights into Finnish food culture while you sample local delicacies. The highlight of the tour is the rooftop bar, offering breathtaking city, sea, and skyline views. Guests consistently praise the tour for its blend of tasty bites and cultural insights, making it a superb choice for foodies.
Bottom Line: This small-group tour offers a rich taste of Helsinki’s traditional dishes with an unbeatable city view, making it suitable for travelers seeking an authentic food experience paired with impressive scenery.
3. Helsinki: Brewery Tour at Mad Hopper Brewing Company
If craft beer is your passion, this brewery tour provides a different flavor of Helsinki’s drink scene. At just $40 per person, it’s an affordable way to learn about Helsinki’s burgeoning craft beer movement in a cozy setting. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with check-in times depending on availability.
What makes this experience special is the personalized approach—it’s tailored for small groups of up to 12 people. You’ll get a guided tour of Mad Hopper Brewing, where the owner explains the brewing process and shares stories behind each beer. You’ll taste a flight of four 150 ml Mad Hopper beers, each representing different styles and seasonal ingredients. The shop is also open afterward for shopping, with special can prices.
Visitors rave about the passion of the guide and the excellent quality of the beers. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Helsinki’s craft brewing scene. Keep in mind, it’s a short tour, so if you’re seeking a full-day experience, this might be better as a quick highlight.
Bottom Line: For beer lovers wanting an intimate, informative session, this brewery tour offers good value and a chance to support local brewers.
4. PRIVATE Helsinki Food Tour & Rooftop Bar Visit and Transfers
If you prefer a customized, private experience, this tour delivers personalized attention and flexibility. Lasting about 2.5 hours, it offers a deep dive into Finnish cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients like salmon caviar and reindeer meat. The private guide takes you through must-see food landmarks like Jugend Hall and the Old Market Hall, sharing stories and details tailored to your interests.
The tour ends at a rooftop bar with a stunning view, providing a perfect wrap-up for your Helsinki food adventure. This option is especially suited for travelers seeking a luxury experience or traveling with a small group or family. The reviews highlight the value of a private guide, with one noting how the guide “made the tour personal and memorable.”
Since it includes transfers, it’s an all-in-one package that simplifies logistics. Price isn’t listed, but the exclusivity and customization make it a premium choice.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, private culinary tour with personalized service, this experience is the way to go. It’s perfect for special occasions or travelers who prefer tailored experiences.
How to Choose the Best Helsinki Drinking Tour for You
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, time, and specific interests. For a well-rounded introduction to Helsinki’s food scene plus a view, the Food Tour with Roof Top Bar in Helsinki offers great value. If authentic Finnish flavors and scenic vistas are your priority, the Food Tour with Rooftop Bar Visit is ideal.
Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the Brewery Tour at Mad Hopper, especially if you’re looking for a shorter, more laid-back experience. For those wanting a customized, private journey, the Private Food & Rooftop Tour offers the most flexibility and personal attention.
Booking early is recommended, especially in the busy summer months. Check availability ahead of time, as some tours are small and fill quickly.
Helsinki’s drinking and food scene offers a variety of ways to enjoy the city’s flavors and views. Whether you prefer a guided tour through historic markets, tasting Finnish specialties, or exploring local craft beers, there’s an experience for everyone. We suggest choosing based on your interests and group size, and don’t forget to pack your camera for that rooftop view. Whichever you pick, you’ll leave with a full belly, some great stories, and a deeper appreciation of Helsinki’s culinary culture.