Suomenlinna Island in Helsinki is an essential destination for those interested in history and nature. This historic sea fortress, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases Finland’s past while offering stunning scenery. Taking a boat tour to the island is an excellent experience, as the surrounding landscapes are remarkably beautiful.
A timeless treasure of Helsinki! Suomenlinna Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fascinating mix of history, nature, and Nordic charm. Explore ancient fortresses, tunnels, and cannons while enjoying panoramic views of the sea and stunning coastal landscapes. The maritime museums and cozy cafés enhance the experience, and the short ferry ride from the city center feels like a mini-adventure. Perfect for history enthusiasts, picnics, or just wandering along the scenic paths with the breeze in your hair. Be sure to catch the sunset – it casts golden colors on the fortress walls! 🌅🏰 Tip: Wear comfortable footwear and pack a picnic for the best day on the island!
Fantastic excursion. Suomenlinna is a lovely place for a short getaway from Helsinki. You can take the ferry from Kauppatori terminal, requiring an AB zone ticket. Overall, a delightful experience.
Entry to the island is free (if using your own transport), while the ferry ticket for 1.5 hours (zone AB) costs €3.20, with a whole day ticket for €10. If you don't want to rush over a few islands connected by bridges, getting a daily ticket is a good idea. Suomenlinna is definitely a place to visit when in Helsinki. Walk to the end of the road to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea. There are multiple attractions on the islands created by the island's residents.
Visiting the fortress is free, but many small museums on the island have an entry fee. The ferry to the island costs €3.20 one way (as of January 2025). No need to book in advance; the boat runs approximately once every hour, so check the timetable at the pier or online. The trip to the island takes just 15 minutes one way.
For tourists: this ferry is part of the Helsinki public transport system, so think of it as a bus in the AB zone. If you already possess a valid public transport ticket valid in the AB zone when you travel to the island, you can use it on this ferry. For those without tickets, there are two machines in front of the ferry entrance. You'll need an "AB single ticket," which cost €3.20 in January 2025. Make sure it is valid for 80 minutes after purchase, so don't buy it too early. Arrive at the pier 10-15 minutes before the ferry departure to purchase your ticket. The gates will light green for boarding, and you can simply pass through without showing your ticket. Note that random ticket checks occur, so ensure you have a valid ticket during travel to avoid fines. The return trip follows the same procedure: buy a single ticket from the pier’s ticket machine just before boarding the ferry back.
