Finnish Archipelago
Destinations
The Finnish Archipelago is a natural wonder. There are over 40,000 islands and islets in this extraordinary labyrinth, and still more are rising from the sea.
Beginning in Turku, Finland’s oldest city and original capital, the archipelago sweeps north towards Kustavi, west towards Pargas, and far south towards Kimitoön. Here, on this side of the Baltic Sea, white-tailed eagles soar over the glittering water, majestic lighthouses stand on lonely outcrops, and picture-perfect villages celebrate traditions that began long ago. Travel slowly, breathe deeply, and savour the archipelago, one island at a time.
Top destinations
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DestinationCentral Turku
Turku is the oldest city in Finland as well as the gateway to the archipelago and the vast sea beyond. For almost 800 years, ships have sailed back and forth to the city, bringing new ideas, movements, and philosophies that have turned the one-time Finnish capital into a vibrant metropolis. Named the European Capital of Culture in 2011, Turku is bursting with museums, galleries, and festivals as well as a restaurant scene that is fast becoming a favourite among foodies. This medieval city has also evolved in harmony with nature; there are countless parks, forests, and beaches here, and the Aura River still flows through the centre. The iconic riverside is beloved by locals and there is no place like the Aura River on a bright summer’s day.
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DestinationCentral Naantali
Less than half an hour from Turku lies the charming Naantali. Founded in 1443 as a Bridgettine convent, Naantali is one of the oldest cities in Finland. The church is the only building that remains of the convent and it has become a must-see attraction over the years. But the truth is, Naantali is filled with must-see attractions. From the colourful Old Town and bustling harbour to the enchanting Moominworld and inspiring galleries, the city pulses with life. There is also no shortage of cafés, restaurants, or accommodation here with luxurious holiday resorts, cosy bed and breakfasts, and everything in between. Naantali is easily reached by ferry or bus, straight from Turku.
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DestinationKimitoön
Perfect for travelers with a passion for the outdoors, Kimitoön is less than an hour’s drive from Turku. The island is blessed with vast forests, wild meadows, and spectacular cliffs and there is a network of nature trails that criss-cross through this unspoiled wilderness, just right for hiking or cycling. For those who prefer to take their holidays at a more relaxed pace, there are enchanting surprises to be found like an enormous open-air museum, a magical underground smoke sauna, and a magnificent manor estate. Kimitoön also has an abundance of dining and accommodation options, ranging from high-quality hotels to tranquil cottages.
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DestinationPargas
Just a 30-minute drive from Turku lies Pargas, a thriving community surrounded by the sea. As well as a dynamic city center, buzzing with cafés, restaurants, and museums, Pargas has a more tranquil rural area, where life moves at a slower pace. Pargas is also steeped in a captivating history that is still visible in the rolling banks of the canal, the narrow alleyways of the Old Town, and the detailed stonework of the 14th century church. Even now, Pargas is making history: limestone has been mined here for decades and the township is home to the largest open quarry in the Nordic countries. With an extensive network of buses and ferries, travelling to and around Pargas is simple.
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DestinationRuissalo
Located just a few kilometres from Turku, the enchanting island of Ruissalo is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The island has the largest oak forests in Finland, making Ruissalo the perfect home for tawny owls, hermit beetles, and hundreds of other species dependent on these ancient trees. With a network of trails that zigzag across the island, walking, cycling, or even skiing is the best way to experience this outstanding natural diversity. Ruissalo is easily accessible from Turku; it is serviced by the Föli bus network and the Föli water bus sails to the island in the summer months. There are also plenty of superb dining and accommodation options, suitable for every type of traveller.
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DestinationNagu
The cheerful community of Nagu is only a 50-kilometre drive from Turku. With two main islands and 3,000 islets, Nagu has long been popular with Finns, who travel the short distance from the city to enjoy the French Riviera-like ambiance. Tourism and farming are the core industries here, and the two meet in perfect harmony at Nagu’s plentiful restaurants, where locally produced ingredients take pride of place. Nagu also has an intriguing history; the island of Seili, for example, was once used as a hospital for people with leprosy and then later as Finland’s first public mental health facility. The area is easily reached by ferry or bus, which run back and forth from Turku and Pargas on a regular basis.
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DestinationKorpo
West of Nagu is Korpo, a picturesque area dotted with 2,000 islands, islets, and skerries. There is far more sea than land in Korpo and locals have long made their living here in industries like fishing and maritime transport. It is a history that is proudly commemorated at the Korpoström Archipelago Centre, but Korpo also has plenty of new reasons to celebrate. The area has started to develop a reputation for fine dining, while events like the toe-tapping Korpo Sea Jazz are putting Korpo on the cultural map. Needless to say, Korpo is a popular tourist destination, especially in the warmer months. It is accessible by ferry from nearby islands or even by bus from Turku.
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DestinationTurku Harbour
Stretching from Martinsilta bridge to the river’s mouth, the harbour is a lively area, full of character and contrasts. Here, trendy eateries are right by medieval buildings, hip hotels are found inside former prisons, and luxurious yachts sail past stately ships. The most popular drawcard is the 700-year-old Turku Castle, but the notorious Kakola prison and the family-friendly Forum Marinum are equally impressive. This area is also the departure point for cruise ships heading to Stockholm and the Åland Islands as well as some smaller vessels, which will take you into the heart of the archipelago.
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DestinationKultaranta
Kultaranta is found on the island of Luonnonmaa, just a few kilometres from Naantali. Kultaranta is a district of Naantali, but it is more famously known as the President of the Republic of Finland’s summer residence. Designed by Lars Sonck in the National Romantic style, the main granite building has an impressive set of rooms as well as an imposing tower that overlooks the city and the surrounding islands. Kultaranta also boasts 32 hectares of forest, 15 hectares of parkland, and an elegant formal garden, where thousands of roses bloom every year. It is not possible to enter the buildings, but you are welcome to enjoy this green space, fondly described as a ‘mini-Versailles’, on guided tours and some evenings in the summertime.
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