Island adventures in Helsinki: easy ferry routes and tips
One of the best ways to experience Helsinki’s seaside is by piecing together a few island stops into a day—or even just a lazy afternoon. Thanks to frequent ferries and short travel times, you can easily see more than one island without feeling rushed. Here are a few relaxed route ideas to help you plan:
History and relaxation: Suomenlinna + Lonna
Explore the historic sea fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its exceptional military architecture and cultural significance. Wander through atmospheric tunnels, climb grassy ramparts, and enjoy coffee with a view of the Baltic Sea. After a few hours, hop back on a ferry heading to Lonna—a small, laid-back island perfect for a leisurely lunch or a sauna session by the shore. Finish your day back at Market Square with a sunset stroll along the Esplanade or a seaside dinner. This route gives you history, relaxation, and a true taste of Helsinki’s easy island rhythm.
- Suomenlinna ferries run year-round via HSL Ferry and seasonally with FRS Finland.
- Lonna ferries operate seasonally with FRS Finland.
Wild Nature Escape: Vallisaari
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Helsinki’s Market Square, Vallisaari offers a serene retreat into nature. Once a military island, it’s now a haven for biodiversity, featuring lush forests, meadows, and rare wildlife. Visitors can explore historical fortifications and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago. In 2025, Vallisaari will host the Helsinki Biennial from June 8 to September 21, showcasing contemporary art installations throughout the island.
- Ferries: Operated by FRS Finland from Market Square (Keisarinluodonlaituri) between May 1 and September 29, 2025.
- Tickets: Available online or onboard; round-trip fares are approximately €10.90 for adults and €8 for children and special groups.
Beach Day Getaway: Pihlajasaari
Pihlajasaari is a beloved summer destination, known for its sandy beaches, rocky shores, and tranquil natural settings. The island is made up of two sections connected by a bridge, offering amenities like cooking shelters, a nature trail, and a seaside restaurant. It’s an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.
Tickets: Purchase online or onboard; round-trip fares are €9.30 for adults, €6.30 for children (7–17 years) and seniors.
Island Trio Adventure: Uunisaari, Liuskasaari & Liuskaluoto
Begin your journey with a brief ferry ride from Merisatamanranta to Uunisaari, a popular recreational island featuring a sandy beach, summer café, and rentable saunas. From Uunisaari, a pedestrian bridge connects you to Liuskasaari, home to the historic Helsingfors Segelsällskap (HSS) sailing club and the HSS Paviljonki restaurant. Continue your exploration to Liuskaluoto, a small islet renowned for the Skiffer restaurant, famous for its gourmet pizzas and scenic seaside views.
- Access: Ferries operated by Aava Lines depart from Merisatamanranta to Uunisaari and Liuskaluoto during the summer months. From Uunisaari, pedestrian bridges provide access to Liuskasaari and Liuskaluoto.
- Tickets: Available for purchase onboard or online; a single ticket grants access to all three islands for the day.
- Season: Ferry services operate from April to November; during winter, Uunisaari is accessible via a floating bridge.
This trio of interconnected islands offers a delightful day trip, combining beach relaxation, culinary delights, and picturesque walks—all within easy reach of Helsinki’s city center.
Family day out: Korkeasaari Zoo + Mustikkamaa
Embark on a delightful family adventure by visiting Korkeasaari Zoo, one of the world’s oldest zoos, established in 1889. Home to approximately 150 animal species, including Amur tigers, snow leopards, and Finnish bears, the zoo offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse wildlife in a natural setting. The island also features restaurants, kiosks, picnic areas, and barbecue spots, making it perfect for a full-day excursion.
Getting There:
- Ferry Access (Summer 2025): From May 3 to September 28, 2025, JT-Line operates ferries from Helsinki Market Square to Korkeasaari.
- May & September: Weekend services (Sat–Sun) using vessels like M/s Hymy or M/s Ilves.
- June 1 – August 31: Daily services with the traditional paddle-wheel vessel Vispilä.
- Departure Point: Keisarinluodonlaituri pier at Market Square.
- Note: The ferry ride offers scenic views of Helsinki’s archipelago and takes approximately 15 minutes.
- Public Transport (Year-Round): Bus 16 provides direct access from Helsinki Central Station to Korkeasaari Zoo. The zoo is also accessible by foot or bicycle via a bridge connecting to Mustikkamaa.
Ticket Information:
- Ferry Tickets (JT-Line):
- Round-Trip: Adults €9.20, Children (4–17) €3.20, Students/Seniors €5.20.
- One-Way: Adults €5.20, Children €2.20, Students/Seniors €3.20.
- Note: Ferry tickets can be purchased online or onboard; payment methods include cash, Finnish debit cards, and major credit cards.
Zoo Admission (Summer 2025):
Important Information:
- There is no passage from the Korkeasaari ferry pier to Mustikkamaa without a valid zoo ticket. To access Mustikkamaa without entering the zoo, use the bridge connection.
- Pets are not permitted on the ferry or within the zoo premises.
- Accessibility: Both the ferry and the zoo are accessible to visitors with mobility challenges.
After exploring the zoo, consider spending time in Mustikkamaa, a neighboring island offering playgrounds, beaches, and forest trails—ideal for relaxation and continued family fun.
A day in the Eastern Archipelago: Kaunissaari + Eastern Route Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Helsinki’s eastern archipelago, exploring serene islands and picturesque waterways.
Kaunissaari: A Seaside Retreat
Located approximately 22 kilometers from Helsinki’s city center, Kaunissaari is a tranquil island in the Sipoo archipelago. Renowned for its rocky beaches, lush forests, and diverse outdoor activities, the island offers:
- Nature Trails: Marked paths for hiking and exploring the island’s varied landscapes.
- Recreational Facilities: Campfire sites, picnic areas, and designated camping spots.
- Amenities: A summer restaurant serving archipelago cuisine, rental cottages, and saunas.
FRS Finland operates daily ferry services to Kaunissaari from Vuosaari’s Hiekkalaituri between June 2 and September 7, 2025. Tickets can be purchased onboard; adult round-trip fares are €23.98. Discounts are available for children, students, and seniors.
Eastern Archipelago Route: Scenic Island-Hopping
Experience Helsinki’s hidden gems aboard FRS Finland’s Eastern Archipelago Route, running daily from June to August, 2025. The route connects various islands, including:
- Stops: Meritullintori, Kalasatama, Herttoniemi, Laajasalo, Vartiosaari, Kotiluoto, Kivisaari, Satamasaari, Rantapuisto, Malkasaari, Iso Iiluoto, Leikosaari, Neitsytsaari, and Vuosaari.
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours for the full cruise.
- Onboard Amenities: Café serving snacks and beverages, including alcoholic options.
Tickets are available for purchase onboard; adult fares for the full cruise are €14.90. A day pass allowing unlimited travel for €26 is also available.
Note: Schedules and services are subject to change; please check FRS Finland’s official website for the most current information.
Plan your island adventure
Check ferry schedules and seasonal routes
Some islands like Suomenlinna are accessible all year, while others like Pihlajasaari and Vallisaari are summer-only gems. Ferry timetables can change with the season and weather, so always check the latest schedules before you go.
Dress for the sea breeze
Even in summer, the Helsinki archipelago can surprise you with fresh winds and cooler temperatures. Pack a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. In winter, bundle up properly—layers, hats, and gloves are essential for seaside walks and ferry rides.
Pack a picnic or snacks
Some islands have cafés and restaurants (like Lonna or Suomenlinna), but many are rustic and perfect for DIY picnics. Stock up on pastries, sandwiches, or fresh berries from Market Square before you board.
Bring swimwear—or sauna gear
In summer, beaches and swimming spots await. Pack swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure.
Respect nature and leave no trace
Helsinki’s islands are pristine, and keeping them that way is part of the experience. Stay on marked trails, take all your rubbish back with you, and respect any seasonal wildlife nesting areas or restricted zones.
Travel light and stay flexible
Ferries can get busy on sunny weekends, and island weather can shift fast. A flexible attitude, some extra water, and a lightweight backpack go a long way towards an easy, memorable day.
Consider a guided tour for hidden stories
If you want to dive deeper into the archipelago’s history and nature, consider joining a guided walking or kayaking tour. Local guides can unlock hidden corners, military secrets, and nature tales you might otherwise miss.
