Harakka Island: Nature, History, and Art in the Helsinki Archipelago

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Discover Harakka Island: A unique Helsinki destination blending nature, history, and art in a beautiful archipelago setting.

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Harakka

Harakka Island, a former military island, is now a public recreational area offering diverse flora and fauna, historical buildings dating back to Russian rule, and art experiences. Just a short ferry ride from Helsinki, it's a unique destination where nature, culture, and history meet.

A brief summary to Harakka

Helsinki, FI

Local tips

Visit the Harakka Nature Centre to learn about the island's unique ecosystem and the Baltic Sea.
Explore the island's nature trail to discover its diverse flora and fauna and historical landmarks.
Check out the art studios and exhibitions to experience the island's vibrant artistic community.

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Getting There

Walking

From Kaivopuisto Park, walk along Ehrenströmintie towards the Ullanlinna pier. The pier is located next to Café Ursula. From there, catch the connecting ferry to Harakka Island. The ferry ride takes only a few minutes.
Public Transport

Take a tram to the Olympic Stadium. From there, walk to the Ullanlinna pier located next to Kaivopuisto Park and Café Ursula. Take the connecting ferry to Harakka Island. Helsinki public transport operates on a zone basis. Harakka Island is located in Zone A. A single AB ticket costs €3.20 and is valid for 80-110 minutes. Tickets can be purchased via the HSL app.
Ferry

The ferry to Harakka Island departs from Ullanlinna pier in Kaivopuisto. A ferry ticket costs €8. The journey takes 10 minutes.

Discover more about Harakka

Harakka Island, located just off the coast of Helsinki near Kaivopuisto Park, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and artistic inspiration. Once a closed military island used by the Finnish Defence Forces, it opened to the public in 1989 and has since become a popular recreational area. The island's history is reflected in its protected buildings, some dating back to the time when Finland was under Russian rule. The Harakka Nature Centre, housed in a former Russian barracks built in 1908, provides information about the Baltic Sea, archipelago nature, and sustainable living. Inside, you'll find exhibitions detailing the underwater life of the Baltic and the island's history and nature. Harakka boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. The island's landscapes range from alder groves and coastal meadows to dry grasslands and marshy rock ponds. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of seabirds on the island, and there's an observation platform in the middle of the island offering fantastic views. In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Harakka is also home to studios for artists and artisans. Visitors can experience art exhibitions and workshops, adding a cultural dimension to their visit. A nature trail guides visitors through the island, providing insights into its nature and history.