Helsinki islands by ferry: Routes, tips and summer highlights
One of the best things about summer in Helsinki? The freedom to hop on a ferry and escape to a nearby island. With over 300 islands and a vast shoreline, Helsinki offers endless opportunities for seaside adventure—just minutes from the city centre.
Whether you’re in the mood for a beach day, a historic fortress, wild nature, or lunch with a view, there’s a summer ferry route for you. This guide covers everything you need to know to explore Helsinki’s most beloved islands by boat—routes, highlights, and practical tips to plan your perfect summer outing
Enjoy a summer outing to Helsinki’s islands: ferries and routes
With over 300 islands and 130 kilometres of coastline, Helsinki’s archipelago is made for summer exploring. From beaches and nature trails to saunas, seaside restaurants and wildlife, the city’s islands offer something for everyone—and they’re just a ferry ride away.
1. Pihlajasaari – A beach day with a nature trail
- Ferry operator: JT-Line
- Departure point: Merisatamanranta (behind Café Carusel) or Kellosaarenranta in Ruoholahti
- Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Tickets: Purchase online or onboard (public transport tickets not accepted)
Pihlajasaari is one of Helsinki’s most popular summer islands. It actually consists of two islands joined by a footbridge, offering a mix of sandy beaches, pine forests, and rocky cliffs for sunbathing. You’ll also find barbecue areas, a seasonal restaurant, and a well-marked 2 km nature trail that offers insight into the island’s wildlife and history. The atmosphere is peaceful but lively—a great place for both solitude and shared picnics.
2. Uunisaari, Liuskasaari and Liuskaluoto – An easy archipelago trio
- Departure point: Kompassilaituri, Ehrenströmintie 1
- Travel time: A few minutes
- Tickets: Purchase onboard or online (signal system used to call ferry)
These connected islands off the southern shore are some of the easiest to access. Uunisaari offers a small beach, sun-warmed rocks, and a summer café with open sea views. A pedestrian bridge links it to Liuskasaari, where you can enjoy pizza at Skiffer while watching boats glide through the harbour. This mini island-hop is ideal for those who want an archipelago experience without a full-day commitment.
3. Korkeasaari – Zoo animals and family-friendly nature
- Ferry operator: JT-Line (by sea) or HSL Bus 16 (by land)
- Departure point: Ferry from Market Square (Keisarinluoto); bus from Helsinki Central Station (platform 17)
- Travel time: Around 20 minutes
- Tickets: Ferry and zoo tickets sold separately; HSL AB ticket required for bus
Korkeasaari is home to Helsinki Zoo and features 150 animal species from across the world, alongside conservation projects and educational exhibits. The island also has restaurants, kiosks, and picnic areas. A bridge connects Korkeasaari to Mustikkamaa, where you’ll find a swimming beach, outdoor sports fields, forest trails, and even an adventure park high in the trees.
4. Lonna – Small but full of flavour and character
- Ferry operator: FRS Finland
- Departure point: Market Square (Keisarinluodonlaituri, near Old Market Hall)
- Travel time: Approximately 10 minutes
- Tickets: Purchase online or onboard (not valid with HSL ticket)
Formerly a military de-mining station, Lonna is now a peaceful island with a strong identity. Its seasonal restaurant serves modern Nordic food with an emphasis on sustainability, and the small museum preserves its wartime history. A public sauna, built from Finnish log, offers sea views from the terrace and a quiet place to slow down. Ideal for a relaxed half-day trip with good food and calm surroundings.
5. Suomenlinna – A UNESCO treasure and island escape
- Ferry operators: HSL municipal ferry and FRS Finland
- Departure point: Market Square
- Travel time: 15–20 minutes
- Tickets: HSL ticket (zone A) valid on municipal ferry; separate ticket required for FRS Finland waterbus
Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Helsinki’s most iconic attractions. This living sea fortress, spread across seven interconnected islands, was built starting in 1748 during Swedish rule. Today, it combines history, island life, and lush green spaces. You can walk through tunnels, visit museums and old bunkers, browse local artisan shops, or picnic with sea views. With cafés, restaurants, and even a hostel on the island, it’s easy to spend a full day here—or longer.
6. Vallisaari – Wild nature and waterfront art
island
Vallisaari
- Ferry operator: FRS Finland
- Departure point: Market Square (Keisarinluodonlaituri)
- Travel time: Around 20 minutes
- Tickets: Purchase online or onboard
Once off-limits to the public, Vallisaari is now open for quiet exploration and cultural events. It’s known for its biodiversity, with rare species of bats, butterflies and birds. Coastal trails offer views of Suomenlinna and the open sea, and the island also hosts parts of the Helsinki Biennial art exhibition. While there are limited services, its raw natural beauty makes it a favourite among photographers and hikers.
7. Kaunissaari – Helsinki’s eastern edge
- Ferry operator: FRS Finland
- Departure point: Aurinkolahti quay (Vuosaari)
- Travel time: 50–60 minutes
- Tickets: Purchase online or onboard
Kaunissaari, “Beautiful Island,” lives up to its name. Located in East Helsinki, it’s a more remote getaway with long stretches of forest, a 4 km nature trail, and open rocky beaches. You’ll find a restaurant near the dock, grilling shelters and designated camping areas. It’s a great option for those looking to unplug, picnic, or even stay overnight in nature.
Plan your summer ferry routes in Helsinki
Helsinki’s islands are more than just scenic escapes—they’re part of daily summer life for locals. Whether you’re chasing a beach day, exploring historical landmarks, or looking for the perfect picnic spot, the archipelago is full of easy, memorable adventures. With so many summer ferry routes connecting the city to nature, it’s never been easier to feel like you’ve left it all behind—without ever leaving Helsinki.
