Katajanokanluoto, Uusimaa Travel Guide

4.7 (12)

Escape to Katajanokanluoto: Helsinki's charming island retreat with sea views, delicious pizza, and a historic atmosphere.

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Katajanokanluoto

Katajanokanluoto is a charming island just a short ferry ride from Helsinki, offering serene landscapes and beautiful waterfront views. Once a pilot station, it now features a café serving delicious pizzas and drinks, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing break from the city.

A brief summary to Katajanokanluoto

Helsinki, FI

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Katajanokanluoto.

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the waterfront for a perfect afternoon.
Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the Helsinki skyline.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore the island is by walking.
Check the weather before your visit, as the island can be quite breezy.
Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and views.

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Explore Katajanokanluoto on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Katajanokanluoto, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Katajanokanluoto using public transport, take the metro to Kaisaniemi station. From there, transfer to tram line 3 towards Katajanokka. Get off at the Katajanokka tram stop and walk towards the waterfront to the ferry terminal. Purchase a ferry ticket for approximately €6. The ferry will take you directly to Katajanokanluoto. A single public transport ticket costs around €2.90.
Ferry

The primary access to Katajanokanluoto is via a short ferry ride. Ferries depart from Meritullintori, located just behind the Relandersgrund lighthouse boat. A round-trip ticket costs €9 if bought at the boat or Cafe Kobben, or €8 if purchased in advance online. The ferry ride takes about 10 minutes.
Walking

From the Katajanokka tram stop, walk towards the waterfront, following signs to the ferry terminal. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. Purchase a ferry ticket at the terminal for approximately €9. The ferry will take you directly to Katajanokanluoto.

Discover more about Katajanokanluoto

Katajanokanluoto, located a short boat ride from Helsinki's Market Square, is a tiny island with a rich maritime history. The island, whose name dates back to the late 1600s, was initially known as Estnäs Skatan. It served as a landmark for sailors accessing the main harbor.In the 19th century, a pilot's house was built on the island, which still stands today, having been renovated and protected. This building now houses Cafe Kobben, known for its excellent pizzas and beverages. The island itself is quite small, offering 360-degree sea views that can be enjoyed while walking around it.Visitors can take a short ferry ride from Meritullintori to reach Katajanokanluoto, enjoying scenic views along the way. Once on the island, they can explore the historic pilot house, relax on benches with panoramic views, and savor refreshments from the café. The island is also committed to ecological practices, using solar panels for electricity, purifying seawater, and recycling all waste.