Audio Guide of Vanha Kirkkopuisto, Old Church Park

Old Church Park is a public park open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, so you can visit at any time. To get there, take tram 2 or 7 from central Helsinki to the Bulevardi stop, or use bus 20; it is located in Punavuori, about a 15-minute walk from the central station. More details are available on the official tourism website: My Helsinki.

Admission to Old Church Park is completely free, as it is a public park accessible to everyone. You do not need to buy tickets or book in advance, just enjoy it at your own pace. If you visit the adjacent old church, check whether there is any special fee for events, but the park itself has no cost.

It is recommended to spend between 30 minutes and 1 hour exploring the park, walking along its paths and admiring the old church and the historic gravestones. If you want to read the information plaques or simply relax, you could extend your visit to 1.5 hours. It is ideal for a short but rewarding visit.

Old Church Park is one of Helsinki’s oldest burial sites, dating back to the 18th century, and it is home to the church built in 1824, an example of Finnish Neoclassical architecture. It served as the main cemetery until 1827 and is now a memorial park reflecting the city’s religious and social history. Its importance lies in preserving the memory of past epidemics and key figures from Helsinki.

The best time is during summer (June to August), when the park is in full bloom with flowers and long hours of natural light, ideal for photos. Early in the morning (around 9–11 AM) you avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere; in winter, snowfall makes it magical, but dress warmly. Avoid rainy afternoons for greater comfort.

Yes, the park is mostly accessible, with paved paths and wide entrances, but some areas with old gravestones may have uneven ground or steps near the church. If you use a wheelchair, choose the main routes; for more information about accessibility adaptations, contact the Helsinki City office at +358 9 310 1691 or visit the Helsinki accessibility website.

Nearby, just a 10–15 minute walk away, you will find Helsinki Market Square and Helsinki Cathedral for a cultural touch; also the Punavuori district with its trendy cafés and galleries. Do not miss Esplanadi Park, 1 km away, perfect for extending your walk. Everything is part of the vibrant city center.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the paths and bring a printed guide or audio app to learn about the historic graves; respect the silence in this memorial site. In summer, combine your visit with a picnic, but check the weather at Foreca. If you are traveling in a group, book a guided tour through My Helsinki for fascinating anecdotes.