Is Suomenlinna worth visiting in winter?

Yes, it is very atmospheric in winter, though some museums like the Vesikko Submarine are closed. The paths can be slippery, but the sight of the frozen Baltic Sea and the snow-covered bastions is spectacular.

Can I find a guided tour Helsinki style on the island?

While there are seasonal group walks available at the visitor center, this self-guided walking route allows you to explore the same history and landmarks independently at your own pace.

How do I get to Suomenlinna from the city center?

Take the HSL municipal ferry from Market Square (Kauppatori). It runs year-round and is part of the city's public transport system, meaning a standard Zone A ticket or day pass is all you need.

Is the Suomenlinna fortress walk difficult?

The walk is considered moderate. While the paths are generally well-maintained, the island is known for its historic cobblestones and some steep slopes around the fortifications.

What are the best things to see in Suomenlinna?

The main highlights include the Suomenlinna Church (which is also a lighthouse), the Vesikko Submarine, and the King’s Gate. The coastal bastions of Kustaanmiekka also offer incredible sea views.

Are there places to eat on the island?

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants, such as Adlerfelt and Café Piper, as well as a grocery store near the main ferry quay for those who prefer a picnic.

Is Suomenlinna family-friendly?

Absolutely, children often enjoy exploring the old tunnels and the submarine. However, parents should be careful as many of the high stone walls and bastions do not have safety railings.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Rising from the cold blue waters of the Baltic Sea, the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress stands as a silent sentinel over Helsinki. Known historically as the 'Gibraltar of the North,' this UNESCO World Heritage site is a sprawling maritime labyrinth of bastions, tunnels, and historic residences. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the complex history of an island that has served under three different flags: Swedish, Russian, and Finnish. As you begin your journey with a short ferry ride from the mainland, the skyline of Helsinki fades, replaced by the rugged granite walls and green embankments of the fortress. This walking route is designed for those who wish to uncover the layers of Finnish identity through its military architecture and hidden natural beauty. You will encounter everything from a church that doubles as a lighthouse to a preserved World War II submarine tucked away in a dry dock. Beyond the fortifications, the route leads through serene 18th-century gardens and past centuries-old barracks that now house a vibrant local community. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Suomenlinna, offering a blend of grand historical narratives and quiet, tucked-away corners. Whether you are marvelling at the massive stone blocks of the King’s Gate or wandering through the English-style Piper’s Park, you are engaging with a landscape that has shaped the fate of Northern Europe. This independent explore allows you to move at your own pace, soaking in the maritime atmosphere and the echoes of soldiers and shipbuilders who once called these islands home. While many visitors stick to the main paved paths, this route ensures you see the iconic landmarks while also discovering the hidden gems that make Suomenlinna a favorite for locals and travelers alike. It is a perfect way to experience a walking tour Helsinki offers through its most unique district, providing a deep dive into the maritime history that defines this coastal capital.

Highlights

Scenic ferry journey from Helsinki Market Square

Suomenlinna Church, a rare lighthouse-church combination

The 18th-century landscape of Piper’s Park

Vesikko, a meticulously preserved WWII submarine

The grand King’s Gate, the fortress's ceremonial entrance

Rugged coastal views of the Helsinki archipelago

Tour Stops (6)

Suomenlinna HSL-ferry

The journey begins even before you set foot on the island. The HSL ferry from Helsinki’s Market Square offers a stunning perspective of the city's South Harbour. As the boat maneuvers through the archipelago, you can see the imposing granite walls of the fortress growing larger. This short 15-minute crossing has been the primary lifeline for the island's residents and soldiers for decades. Historically, these waters were vital for the defense of the Swedish Empire against Russian expansion. Take a moment to look back at the white domes of Helsinki Cathedral and the red brick of Uspenski Cathedral, symbols of the city’s dual heritage, as you transition from the modern capital to this historic maritime stronghold.

Suomenlinna Church

Built in 1854 during the Russian era, this building originally served as an Eastern Orthodox garrison church, complete with five onion domes. After Finland gained independence, it was converted into a Lutheran church, and its architecture was simplified to the minimalist structure you see today. However, its most fascinating feature is hidden in the steeple. The church also functions as a lighthouse, flashing a Morse code signal for the letter 'H' (for Helsinki) to guide ships safely through the Gulf of Finland. It is one of only a few churches in the world that serves this dual purpose, standing as a beacon of both spiritual and maritime safety.

Restaurant Adlerfelt

Housed in a beautiful 250-year-old building, this site represents the social and domestic side of life in the fortress. While the island is known for its military might, it has always been a place where people lived, worked, and socialized. The building itself is a testament to the longevity of the island's stone architecture, surviving centuries of political shifts. It is named after the Adlerfelt family, who were prominent figures in the Swedish military history of the fortress. Today, the area surrounding this building serves as a reminder of how historic spaces can be repurposed for modern community life while still preserving their original architectural integrity and charm.

Piperin puisto

Designed in the late 18th century, Piper’s Park is a rare example of an English-style landscape garden in Finland. It was created by Axel von Fersen the Younger, a Swedish nobleman, to provide a touch of elegance and tranquility amidst the harsh military environment. The park features winding paths, a small pond, and views that look out over the sea. Historically, this was a place where officers and their families would promenade, far removed from the grit of the barracks. The flora here is distinct from the mainland, benefiting from the unique maritime microclimate of the islands, making it a peaceful sanctuary for a quiet moment during your walk.

Submarine Vesikko

Resting in a dry dock, the Vesikko is a poignant relic of World War II. Launched in 1933, it served the Finnish Navy during the Winter War and the Continuation War. After the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty, Finland was forbidden from maintaining a submarine fleet, and all other Finnish submarines were scrapped. Vesikko was spared and restored as a museum piece. Walking alongside its hull, you can imagine the cramped and dangerous conditions the crew of 20 men faced while patrolling the Baltic. It remains one of the few examples of a pre-WWII German-designed Type II submarine still in existence, offering a rare look at mid-century naval engineering.

King’s Gate

This is the iconic symbol of Suomenlinna. The King’s Gate was built between 1753 and 1754 as the ceremonial entrance to the fortress. It was constructed on the very spot where King Adolf Frederick of Sweden anchored his ship while inspecting the construction of the site. The gate is made of local granite and decorated with marble plaques inscribed with the fortress’s purpose. One famous inscription by the fortress's founder, Augustin Ehrensvärd, reminds visitors: 'Posterity, stand here on your own foundation, and do not rely on outside help.' It is a powerful concluding stop that looks out toward the open sea, marking the boundary of the fortress and the start of the vast Baltic horizon.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard walk takes about 2 to 3 hours. This route covers approximately 3 kilometers of walking, plus the 15-minute ferry journey each way from Helsinki Market Square.