Suomenlinna: A Historic Sea Fortress
Explore Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a historic sea fortress with museums, scenic views, and a unique island atmosphere.
Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a sea fortress on a group of islands near Helsinki, Finland. Built in the 18th century, it has served Sweden, Russia, and Finland, offering a glimpse into military architecture and history. Today, it's a popular destination with museums, cafes, and scenic views.
A brief summary to Suomenlinna
- Helsinki, 00190, FI
- +358295338410
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the ramparts or rocky coastline, especially on a sunny day.
- Check the opening hours of museums and attractions in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
- Purchase a Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) ticket before boarding the ferry to avoid queues.
- Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the fortress.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The most common way to reach Suomenlinna is by ferry from Helsinki's Market Square (Kauppatori). The HSL ferry operates year-round, departing approximately every 20-30 minutes in summer and hourly in winter. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. A valid HSL ticket is required and must be purchased before boarding. Suomenlinna is located in HSL ticket zone A. A single ticket costs approximately €3. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at the Market Square or via the HSL app.
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Walking
From Helsinki Central Railway Station, you can walk or take tram line 4 or 7 to the Market Square (Kauppatori) ferry terminal. The walk is approximately 1.5km and takes about 20 minutes. Tram tickets cost around €3. From the Market Square, follow the signs to the Suomenlinna ferry terminal. Purchase an HSL ticket from the vending machines before boarding the ferry. Upon arrival at Suomenlinna, the main attractions are within easy walking distance.
Discover more about Suomenlinna
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress
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Susisaari
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Polhem Bastion
0.5 km
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Lantinghausen Bastion
0.6 km
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Kustaanmiekka
0.6 km
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Särkkä
1.3 km
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Kuninkaansaari
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Skatuddens Terminal
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Katajanokka Terminal
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Olympia Terminal
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Liuskaluoto
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Skiffer Liuskaluoto
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Katajanokka
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Wanha Satama
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The Shipwrecked
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Unmissable attractions to see
Suomenlinna Museum
0.0 km
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Military Museum of Manège
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Iso Mustasaari
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Ehrensvärd Museum
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Suomenlinna Church
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Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
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Submarine Vesikko
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Mortuis Memorial Stone
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King’s Gate
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Lonna Sauna
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Vallisaari
1.2 km
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Kalvholmen
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Harakka
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Katajanokanluoto
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Cafe Kobben
1.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Adlerfelt
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Lonna ravintola
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Särkänlinna
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Restaurant Saaristo
2.0 km
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Uunisaari
2.1 km
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Restaurang NJK
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Restaurant Linnankellari
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Ravintola Makasiini & Bar
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Restaurant Saari
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Cafe Carusel
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Restaurant Sea Horse
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Restaurant Locanda Scappi
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Restaurant Everest Katajanokka
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Restaurant Wellamo
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Restaurant Fly Fusion
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Edition Wilhelm Hansen Helsingfors Ab
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Nordic Design and Handcraft Shop Käspaikka
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Aarreholvi
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Urban Concept
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LadyBohemia Boutique-Showroom
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Helsinki secondhand oy
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Live Love Helsinki
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Street West
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Götan Maailma / Göta’s World
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COMMON
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Garageland
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Reindeer Souvenirs Shop & Kiosk
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Taito Shop Helsinki
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CraftCorner Helsinki
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Island-K Bar&Kitchen
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Pub Vapari
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Beaky Basterd & Co
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Poseidon
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Madame Clicquot Champagne Bar
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The PALM
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Goldfish Bar
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SKÖNE
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Bar Viiskulma
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Velvet Bar
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Kork Bar
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Holiday Bar
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Crazy Wine Helsinki
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Old Skiffer
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Lilla e
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