Suomenlinna Sea Fortress: A Historic Maritime Stronghold
Explore Suomenlinna: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, shaped by three historic eras, offering walls, tunnels, museums, and scenic beauty.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is an 18th-century maritime fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage site located on a cluster of islands just off the coast of Helsinki. Originally named Sveaborg (Fortress of Sweden), its construction began in 1748 under Swedish Admiral Augustin Ehrensvärd to defend against Russia. Over the centuries, the fortress has been under the rule of three different states: the Kingdom of Sweden, the Russian Empire, and the Republic of Finland. Throughout its history, Suomenlinna has played a key role in the region's political and military activities. In 1808, it was surrendered to Russia during the Finnish War and served as a Russian military base. After Finland gained independence in 1917, the fortress was renamed Suomenlinna (Fortress of Finland) and became a symbol of Finnish sovereignty. Today, Suomenlinna is a suburb of Helsinki, home to around 800 residents, and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore its six kilometers of walls, 100 cannons, tunnels, and parks. The fortress also houses several museums, including the Suomenlinna Museum, the Military Museum of Finland, and the Submarine Vesikko. The island is accessible year-round by public transport, with a ferry operating from the Market Square.
Local tips
- Wear layers, as Suomenlinna tends to be colder and windier than Helsinki due to its island location.
- Purchase a Helsinki Card for access to the ferry and discounts on museums.
- Check the opening hours of museums and attractions, as some operate only during the summer season.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the rocky coastline, especially on a nice summer day.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the fortress's history and significance.
A brief summary to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
- Helsinki, 00190, FI
- +358295338410
- Visit website
Getting There
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Ferry
The primary access to Suomenlinna is via a 15-25 minute ferry ride from Helsinki Market Square. Ferries depart frequently throughout the day, year-round. Look for the red FRS Finland flags or HSL ferries at the pier. A round-trip ticket costs approximately $9.20 - $10.65. Tickets can be purchased online, via mobile app, or at vending machines on the pier. Helsinki public transport tickets (HSL) are also valid. During the summer, a water bus also operates from Market Square to Artillery Bay on the south side of Suomenlinna, costing €8.30 return.
