The Helsinki archipelago is home to over 300 islands which are easily accessible from the city. On a sunny day, pack up your bags and swap the urban landscape for nature and the sea. Here are four islands to visit this summer:
-
Suomenlinna
Perhaps the most famous island in Helsinki, at least amongst tourists. Suomenlinna used to be a sea fortress, and it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the perfect site for a picnic, but its six museums make for a cultural visit too! It can be reached by boat from the Market Square — HSL transport tickets are valid, so if you have a travel card, you don’t need to pay any extra fees!
-
Lonna
Lonna is a small island open in the summer season. Previously used for mine storage, the island boasts a summer restaurant and a public sauna for visitors to relax while contemplating Helsinki from afar. Check out the ferry timetables here.
-
Seurasaari
Just off of the Meilahti area of Helsinki, Seurasaari hosts lots of friendly squirrels (who will literally climb up your leg!) and an open air museum consisting of a collection of old Finnish buildings that have been transported from all over the country. As a plus, it’s near other attractions like president Urho Kekkonen’s home. This is the only island on this list that you can get to without a boat! Bus 24 will drop you off right by the bridge to the island.
-
Pihlajasaari
Another local favorite, Pihlajasaari used to be a former villa island, and some of these constructions can actually still be seen and visited, such as the Pihlajasaari summer restaurant. On offer: gorgeous sandy beaches, nature paths, and saunas to rent! Click here for the ferry timetables.
Pictures by Pixabay and Wikimedia Commons