A treasure trove by the sea: Day trip to Hanko
Less than two hours from Helsinki lies a city of long sandy beaches and smooth open rocks, where the wide-open horizon is sure to dazzle. But Hanko is far more than just a beach town. Dive beneath the surface, climb to great heights, and let history sweep you away.
Start to experience Hanko from the top!
To get a full picture of Finland’s southernmost city, start by taking in the stunning views from the water tower – one of Hanko’s most iconic landmarks. This 65-metre-high observation tower offers breathtaking vistas across the sea. You can spot three lighthouses: Gustavsvärn, 3 km to the southwest; the pink Russarö lighthouse further in the distance; and on a clear day, even the mighty Bengtskär lighthouse. At 52 metres, it’s the tallest lighthouse in the Nordics. Marine Lines offers cruises to Bengtskär, while SunFun runs trips to Gustavsvärn during the summer season.
If you wish, rent a bike and explore the city along the signposted 19-kilometre cycling route. Stop for coffee or lunch along the way, or bring your own snacks. Maps are available from the tourist office!
Cultural experiences in historic Hanko
From 15 May 2025, the Hanko Museum opens its new permanent exhibition Where
Land and Sea Meet. Discover key moments from Hanko’s history – from emigration and island life to industry, villa culture, and beyond. Visit Antti Eklund’s painting exhibition at Hanko Art Gallery in the Eastern Harbour from 9 July to 3 August. Works by both local and visiting artists are also on display at the Town Hall Art Gallery and the Municipal Library Gallery.
The Hanko Front Museum recently expanded with a new heritage centre exploring wartime history on the Hanko Peninsula. Picturesque touches like the red-and-white fishers’ sheds at Gunnarsinranta and Chapel Harbour complete the coastal charm.
Located in the Eastern Harbour, Drottningberg is a creative hub housed in a former factory building near the guest marina. Here, you’ll find art studios, vintage shops, and wellness businesses – perfect for a dose of inspiration and a few unique souvenirs. Most Drottningberg shops can also be found along the pedestrianised Vuorikatu, in Spa Park, and around the Eastern Harbour.
Hanko’s nature destinations year-round
The city boasts many outdoor gems best explored on foot. Choose a marked historical trail or simply wander through the surrounding nature and enjoy a break at one of the lean-to shelters. On the eastern side of Täktomintie, you’ll find two signposted nature trails. There are also two birdwatching towers, and a wetland restoration project is underway to reduce eutrophication in Täktominlahti Bay.
Hanko is a dog-friendly city, but remember to keep dogs on a lead within built-up areas from March until 19 August to protect nesting birds and wildlife. Still, most hotels, cafés, and restaurants welcome both dogs and their owners!
The Tulliniemi Nature Path traces the northern shore of the peninsula to Finland’s southernmost point, where the Archipelago Sea meets the Gulf of Finland. It’s a magnificent destination in all seasons. After your walk, treat yourself at the new café-restaurant on Tulliniemi’s southern beach.
Activities for all tastes
Hanko offers a wide array of activities. You can enjoy golf, tennis, and horse riding, or go sailing, surfing, kayaking, or work out at the city’s well-equipped outdoor gym. Paddle your way to peace of mind in rhythm with the waves.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight, Hanko has a rich offering of wellness services. How does seaside yoga sound? Or a wood-fired pizza after a sauna session at Silversand Camping? Perhaps a relaxing getaway at Regatta Spa?
Olympia’s authentic cinema experience
Sink into a red velvet seat and travel back in time to 1940s Hanko. Kino Olympia is a gem of a cinema, with much of its original interior still intact. Even the vintage ticket booth in the lobby is a highlight. The iconic Olympia sign still glows a brilliant blue above the entrance, just as it did over 60 years ago.
A water carousel and snorkeling trail
Hanko offers plenty for families. Along the Bulevardi you’ll find a large playground, shallow beaches, exciting nature spots, and a skate ramp to keep children and teens entertained.
A unique water carousel at Plagen beach has delighted visitors for decades – it’s a regular star on social media too. Hanko’s dazzling beaches and vast sea horizon are truly moving, but don’t forget to explore beneath the waves as well. Dip below the surface and discover a whole new world!
Observe underwater life – mussels, fish, and aquatic plants – through your goggles, and learn more from the underwater info boards curated by the local Tvärminne Zoological Station. The snorkelling trail is open to everyone, but always snorkel with a buddy. Fins and a snorkel are recommended.
Local, seasonal, unique
Small cafés and bakeries serve treats year-round – from hearty sandwiches to sweet pastries. HSF and Segel offer gourmet flavours for discerning palates. If you’re after homemade Finnish food, visit one of the cosy lunch cafés in the city centre or Western Harbour. På Kroken, Cafferie, and Kahvila Leipomo Lillan are great examples. The popular Hangon Makaronitehdas also caters to vegans.
Surrounded by the archipelago, Hanko places high value on local produce and small-scale food options. In addition to delicious dishes, you’ll find locally made goods and unique gifts in Hanko’s boutiques and shops. If you’re after something quick, you’ll find tasty options at pizza joints, burger spots, kiosks, and grills.
For sunset lovers
Whether you stay at the welcoming Silversand campsite or find a quiet moment on the rocky shores of Varisniemi north of the city, Hanko offers stunning sunset views and serene blue dusk skies. For romantics who enjoy nature walks with a historical twist, the Puistovuori Path of Love trail is a must. This 1.5-kilometre walking route dates back to the late 19th century, originally created for spa guests. The wide, flat rocks were once fenced off for “air baths”, and during the emigration era, people even danced here while waiting for ships bound for America.
How to get to Hanko?
Due to railway works, the national train operator VR will replace trains with buses on the Helsinki–Karjaa section between 23 June and 27 July 2025. The Karjaa–Hanko train will run as normal. No long-distance bus services operate directly to Hanko. In summer, you can also reach the beach town by boat. It’s a popular destination for cyclists, and you can of course drive there via National Road 25. Check travel times and prices at https://www.perille.fi/en/.
For more info: See Visit Hanko!
