Helsinki Guides is an association of authorised guides established in 1947. The aim of our association is to provide information on the guides and their services, look after and promote the members' interests, the upkeep and further development of the members' professional skills and knowledge and act as a living community for our members. 

There are more than 300 members in our association and together we do around 17,000 guided tours in 25 languages annually. We are a member of SMAL (Association of Finnish Travel Industry, AFTA) and The European Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (FEG).

All members of Helsinki Guides Association are authorised guides which means that every member has officially been qualified as a guide by a professional exam board.

A professional guide is able to cater to various customers including the very discerning. When in the company of a professional guide the visitor can relax and enjoy the subject of the tour or the destination being visited.

Being fluent in the language spoken is key for a professional guide. The guide will have knowledge of the group’s background and culture. The guide will acquire his knowledge of history and local details independently. The guide follows the current affairs and is well aware of what is going on in the world in general. A professional guide will always make sure that his knowledge is based on facts.

 It is part of a professional guide’s routine chores that he makes sure the group is safe and any possible risks are minimised. The guide will keep the group informed regarding the safety aspects and will always assist in any troublesome situations.