There are plenty of gorgeous islands to explore if you are a visitor to Helsinki. If you’re searching for some island adventure in Helsinki, add Suomenlinna, Lonna, Seurasaari, Vallisaari and Pihlajasaari to your itinerary. These islands have something for everyone, whether you’re looking for culture, nature, or relaxation.
From the bustling markets of Suomenlinna to the peaceful woodlands of Lonna, each island has something special to offer. Here are some of the best islands in Helsinki that you shouldn’t miss:
Suomenlinna Island
Suomenlinna Island (Finnish; Viapori until 1918) or Sveaborg (Swedish) is an inhabited sea fortification erected on eight islands about 4 kilometers southeast of Helsinki, Finland’s capital. Helsinki Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is popular with both visitors and residents as a scenic picnic spot. Sveaborg (Castle of the Swedes), or Viapori as it is known by Finnish-speaking Finns, was renamed Suomenlinna (Castle of Finland) in 1918 for patriotic and nationalistic reasons.
The Suomenlinna Island is a sea fortress built on a collection of islands just off Helsinki’s shore. It’s a popular tourist and local destination, featuring a variety of attractions to keep you engaged. Several museums are located on the island, including the Suomenlinna Toy Museum and the Maritime Museum of Finland. You can also explore the late-nineteenth-century Suomenlinna Church or stroll through the island’s lovely streets and squares.
If you want to go shopping, Helsinki island Suomenlinna has you covered. There are various boutiques and markets on the island where you may buy everything from handcrafted goods to local produce. When it comes time to eat, there are numerous restaurants and cafes to pick from, each serving delectable Finnish cuisine.
How to Visit Suomenlinna Island Helsinki?
Lonna Island
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Lonna Island may be the ideal place for those seeking a more tranquil island vacation. The island in Helsinki, Lonna Island, is a small and quiet island just a short boat journey from Helsinki, with a population of only a few dozen people. Because the island is largely covered in forests and fields, it is ideal for trekking and exploration.
While there aren’t many tourist activities on Lonna Helsinki, the natural beauty of the island is more than enough to keep you occupied. Spend your days trekking through the woodlands, swimming in the pristine waterways, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. On the island, there’s also a tiny café where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cup of coffee with a view. The sauna is famous here, just for you to know!
How to Visit Lonna Island Helsinki?
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Pihlajasaari Island
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Pihlajasaari Island is a popular island attraction for both locals and visitors to Helsinki. The island is noted for its beautiful beaches and sparkling waters and is only a short ferry trip from the city core. It’s an ideal spot for a day of sunbathing and swimming in the sea.
There are also a variety of restaurants and cafés on the island where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. If you’re looking for a little excitement, there are several rental firms on the island that provide kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and other water sports equipment.
How to Visit Pihlajasaari Island Helsinki?
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Seurasaari Island
Seurasaari Island is a lovely island within a short distance from the city center. It’s famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, with forests, farms, and beaches just waiting to be discovered. The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum is also located on the island and exhibits a collection of traditional Finnish houses, farmsteads, and other buildings that have been transferred to the island from all across the nation.
You can visit the museum to learn more about Finnish history and culture, or simply relax on the island.
In addition to the museum, Seurasaari features a number of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops where you can eat or buy a souvenir. Picnics are especially popular on the island, which has plenty of grassy spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy a meal.
How to Visit Seurasaari Island Helsinki?
Vallisaari Island
Vallisaari Island is a relatively new island location in Helsinki, having opened to the public only in 2020. The island, which is only a short ferry journey from the city center, is noted for its magnificent forests, meadows, and beaches.
Vallisaari has a rich history, with many old buildings and structures dotted over the island. You can examine the remains of an old artillery battery or visit the island’s former military barracks. There are also various hiking routes on the island that provide stunning views of the surrounding sea and islands.
Vallisaari is a wonderful spot to visit if you enjoy nature. The island is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including various bird and plant species. You can take a guided tour of the island to learn more about its flora and fauna, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance on your own.
How to Visit Vallisaari Island Helsinki?
How to Visit Helsinki Islands?
- Ferry: The most popular mode of transportation to the islands is by ferry. The city of Helsinki has an extensive ferry network that connects it to several of the nearby islands. The Helsinki City Transport website has ferry schedules and tickets.
- Some of the islands, like Seurasaari, can also be reached by bus. You can take a bus from the city center to the island, then walk to the ferry station.
- Another option is to board a water bus, which is a specialized ferry that follows a predetermined route and schedule. The Helsinki City Transport website has more information on water bus schedules and tickets.
- Rent a boat: Renting a boat allows you to have a more intimate and personalized island experience. There are various boat rental companies in Helsinki, which can be a fun and thrilling way to explore the islands.
