Harakka Island: Nature and History in Helsinki's Archipelago
Explore Harakka Island: a natural haven with a rich history, just a short ferry ride from Helsinki's city center.
Harakka Island, located just off the coast of Helsinki, is a unique destination blending natural beauty with historical significance. Once a military island, it now offers visitors a chance to explore diverse flora and fauna, observe birdlife, and learn about the island's past through its protected buildings and nature trails.
A brief summary to Harakka
- Helsinki, FI
Local tips
- Visit the Harakka Nature Centre (open May-September) to learn about the island's unique ecosystem and borrow equipment for exploring.
- Follow the nature trail to discover the island's diverse flora, fauna, and historical sites.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during the spring migration.
- Be mindful of nesting birds and avoid disturbing them, especially during nesting season.
Getting There
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Ferry
The primary access to Harakka Island is via a short ferry ride from the Ullanlinna jetty in Kaivopuisto Park. The ferry operated by Merenkävijät departs from Ullanlinnanlaituri marina (Ehrenströmintie 3). The ride takes only a few minutes. A single ticket costs approximately €8.
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Walking
From the Helsinki city center, you can walk to Kaivopuisto Park, where the Ullanlinna jetty is located. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers and takes around 45 minutes. Once at the jetty, follow the 'Ferry' guidance to reach the island.
Discover more about Harakka
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Särkkä
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Liuskaluoto
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Skiffer Liuskaluoto
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Ursinin kallio
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Memorial to Seafarers and the Deceased at Sea (Sculpture)
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Olympia Terminal
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Helsinki Observatory
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Helaxe
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Memorial to the Royal artillery regiment of Finland
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Polhem Bastion
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Fredrikintori
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Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress
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Skatuddens Terminal
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Katajanokka Terminal
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Green Cap Tours
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Unmissable attractions to see
Uunisaari sauna
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Kaivopuiston tähtitorni
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Kaivopuisto
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Kompassitori
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Flisholmen
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Havsparken
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Monument under the Spruce of Independence
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JT-Line Waterbus from Merisatama to Pihlajasaari Island
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Statue of Peace
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Marmoripalatsi
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Flatiron House of Helsinki Vuorimiehenkatu 4.
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Eiranpuisto
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Port of Helsinki
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Eiranranta
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The Shipwrecked
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Essential places to dine
Uunisaari
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Särkänlinna
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Restaurant Saari
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Cafe Carusel
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Restaurant Saaristo
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Restaurant Sea Horse
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Le Ankka
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Ravintola Santpauli
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Tristan Restaurants
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Restaurang NJK
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Restaurant Birgitta Hernesaari
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Cafe&Bar Petisco
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Il Bucatino
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Baskeri & Basso
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Helsinki secondhand oy
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Götan Maailma / Göta’s World
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COMMON
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Digital Fabric Oy
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Bar Llamas
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