Sea Fortress Suomenlinna
Sea Fortress Suomenlinna
4.5
Historic SitesArchitectural BuildingsIslandsMilitary Bases & Facilities
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- LeonVQuinnMohill, Ireland131 contributionsSuch a cool, different placePossibly not the best time of the year or day of the week (Sunday) to visit as it was mostly closed and bitterly cold but it was still class to see a world heritage site. It's one of the strangest places I've been with such a strange atmosphere. It kinda reminded me of a concentration camp or something. The military museum is well worth a visit as are the main fortress parts. We enjoyed the ferry trip over through the ice too!Dear LeonVQuinn, thank you for your review. During the winter, Suomenlinna has quite a calm and unique atmosphere, and it is important to dress warmly when visiting. A lot of the services in Suomenlinna are open also during winter, one can always check the up-to-date opening hours from our website at suomenlinna.fi. Suomenlinna is indeed a UNESCO world heritage site as a unique example of the military architecture of its time. The sea fortress has also been part of the defense of three different realms; Sweden, Russia and Finland. Nowadays Suomenlinna is a lively neighborhood of Helsinki with some 800 inhabitants. In addition to the military museum, it is worth visiting the Suomenlinna museum to learn about the history of the sea fortress. Welcome again!Written 25 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 March 2024
- betha72092 contributionsWonderful visit from Tallin.Beautiful fortress. A short 10 min ferry ride to get to the island. We went through ice on the ferry which was different. Well worth the trip over. Takes about an hour to get there,visit, and get back. We enjoyed it.Dear betha720, thank you for your kind review! The Suomenlinna sea fortress has impressive architecture as well as beautiful landscapes and views over the sea. One can get to Suomenlinna easily on the HSL ferry, which is part of public transport. The trip from Helsinki's Market square to the sea fortress takes only some 15 minutes. The best way to explore the fortress is to follow the 1,5 km long blue route that takes you all the way to the King's gate on the southernmost island. There are also several museums, cafes and restaurants in Suomenlinna, so one can easily spend the day on the islands. Some of the services are only open during the summer season, but one can always check the up-to-date opening hours from our website at suomenlinna.fi. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 25 March 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 March 2024
- Barbs25Staffordshire, United Kingdom3,973 contributionsNice place for a wanderWe had time spare after the main attractions of the city so got the ferry over. It’s u clouded in your transport day ticket and only takes 10 mins. Nice to get another view of the city from the water. The island is nice to walk around, very quiet when we visited but some cafes and the visitor centre were open. Good place to spend an hour or maybe longer in the warmer months. K mart next to the ferry port there for snacksDear Barbs25, thank you for your review. As you also mention, it is easy to get to Suomenlinna with the ferry that belongs to the local public transport network, in just about 10-15 minutes and all year round. The ferry ride is an essential part of the visit experience as you can enjoy the sea breeze and views of the city and archipelago. In winter there is often a chance to experience a ferry ride through icy waters. We recommend following the Blue route to explore the fortress and to discover its main historical sights. You can find this route in all our maps marked with a Blue line. Hope to see you again in Suomenlinna! Stop by Suomenlinna Visitor Centre next to the ferry pier to get the best tips of the day.Written 9 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 3 April 2024
- giulia75 contributionsoasis of peacethe UNESCO heritage island is easily reachable from the market square with a ticket that can be purchased directly near the boarding point (if you have a day ticket it is included), navigation duration approximately 15 minutes with the possibility of staying inside for a long time as for the outside. Once you arrive on the island you can feel a sense of peace and tranquility, without entering any museum the walk takes just under a couple of hours. There are also restaurants and cafes on the island Absolutely recommended during a trip to Helsinki :)Dear 10-19-giu-10-19, thank you for your kind review, we are glad to hear you enjoyed the ambiance of Suomenlinna! Indeed, one can get to Suomenlinna easily on a public transportation ferry, which is also a great opportunity to admire views of Helsinki from the sea. Suomenlinna is a Unesco world heritage site as a unique example of the military architecture of its time. Furthermore, the sea fortress has been part of the defense of three different realms: Sweden, Russia and Finland. The best way to see all the important sights and explore the three main islands is to follow the blue route. Like you mention, there are several museums, cafes and restaurants in Suomenlinna, which makes the sea fortress a great place for a little day trip within Helsinki. Hope to see you again soon in Suomenlinna!Written 14 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten 13 April 2024
- Shellbella19Wodonga, Australia100 contributionsA surprise adventureWow….. what a day out! This place was so much fun to walk around! Be sure to go off the blue line (major attractions) and explore further. We found so many tunnels that turned out to be an adventure. Very easy to get to with the ferry which is quick to get to the island (15 mins) and just explore for as long as you want. Take some snack with you as you could be there for a few hours.Dear Shellbella19, thank you for your review, glad you enjoyed visiting Suomenlinna! To enjoy Suomenlinna with care, it is important to follow the blue route as it protects the historical architecture of the fortress and the sensitive environment of the islands. The blue route also respects the privacy of the islands’ residents and avoids fall hazards as well as places that are closed to the public. By following the blue route you will get a good overview of the three main islands and see all the important historical sights. There are six tunnels that are marked on our maps and we encourage you to explore them. However, it is important to watch your step and especially in the tunnels on the southernmost Kustaanmiekka island, you will need a flashlight and be careful not to bump your head as the tunnel ceilings are at times quite low. Like you mention, one can easily spend the whole day in Suomenlinna, exploring the islands and fortifications, visiting museums and enjoying tasty food and delicacies in the many cafes and restaurants on the islands. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 15 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 14 April 2024
- Rita28Foggia, Italy779 contributionsNice overallThe islands in general are very beautiful, even more so than the military structures. Convenient to get there by ferry that leaves from Helsinki square, ticket can be purchased from the dock, children up to seven years old do not pay for the ferry. On the islands there are museums, panoramas and military garrisons, also some bars and souvenir shops.Dear Rita28FG, thank you for your review and for visiting Suomenlinna! The sea fortress is indeed a great place to admire not only the fortifications but also the natural beauty of the islands and sea views. The ferry to Suomenlinna is part of public transport and the 15-minute trip is an experience in itself. Like you mention, there are several museums, restaurants and cafes on the islands, which makes Suomenlinna a great place for a little day trip within Helsinki. More information on the ferry, sights and services can be found from our online guide at guide.suomenlinna.fi. Hope to see you again soon in Suomenlinna!Written 28 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten 28 April 2024
- Al MakynenDuluth, Minnesota367 contributionsTake the Ferry RideThe views out into the harbor and gulf from the ramparts are worth the walk. Most of the streets are granite cobblestones, which can be tough on the feet and ankles. You need at least two hours to take in just the basic sights. We had purchased an HSL multiple day transit pass (Areas ABC) which covers all modes of transportation including the ferry from Airport to Center City.Dear almP893SR, Thank you for your review and for visiting us! It's true that the historical streets of the fortress are not the easiest to walk and therefore it's always good to wear comfortable shoes when visiting Suomenlinna. By following the Blue route you can easily see all the main sights and the different islands of Suomenlinna. You can find the Blue route marked with blue line in all our maps. If you only need a ticket from Helsinki Market Square to Suomenlinna, you can buy AB ticket which is valid in HSL ferry to Suomenlinna and also in other public transportation in Helsinki city. In the summer you can also come to Suomenlinna by waterbus which takes you to the other side of Suomenlinna. The waterbus has a separate ticket so the HSL tickets are not valid. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 4 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 May 2024
- Geoff BSydney, Australia213 contributionsWell worth the trip (at least 1/2 a day's enjoyment).This mid 1700's Swedish built fortress is a highlight of any Helsinki visit. A ferry leaves from the city's harbour-front (even in snow/ice bound weather) with a ticket machine (no cash) and warm waiting room. Ferry takes around 15 minutes to traverse the harbour. Check the Museum once at the island, get a map and then (recommended) you follow the "Blue Line". If you do the full walk to the outer-side (King's Gate etc) it takes around 2 slow (ice n' gravel) hours for the return trip (with plenty of stops for photos). About 2/3rds along the walk, is a Museum and shop/restaurant. Try the local Finnish meat pie ?? and an excellent "flat white" coffee.Dear deckchairtraveller, Thank you for your review and for visiting us! Nice to hear you have visited us in winter time when Suomenlinna has very unique atmosphere. We welcome the visitors to Suomenlinna every day throughout the year to see the wonderful characteristics of different seasons. When you arrive to Suomenlinna we recommend to visit our Visitor Centre to get the best tips for your trip in Suomenlinna. The Blue route indeed is the best way to see all the main sights in Suomenlinna, and the different museums. In summer time, all the six museums with different exhibitions are open. If you wish to have a break during your walk, there are also multiply different restaurants and cafés in Suomenlinna which we warmly recommend to explore. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 6 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Travelled soloWritten 4 May 2024
- IgorLPSSao Caetano do Sul, SP2,063 contributionsVery interesting fortress.The Suomenlinna Fortress is an unmissable tour if you are visiting Finanlinda. It is an island full of history that contains a well-preserved fort, museums and other historical buildings. It's good to have time to make the most of it, there is transport that leaves from the port of Helsinki.Dear IgorLPS, Thank you for your review and for visiting us! It's true that in Suomenlinna there are plenty of things to do and therefore it's good to visit with time. Besides the historical sights and beautiful landscapes, there are several museums, restaurants and cafés in Suomenlinna. The main sights can be found by following the Blue route which goes through the fortress. We recommend to stop by in our Visitor Centre to get the best tips for your visit. You can reach Suomenlinna easily from Helsinki Market Square by HSL ferry or by water bus which runs in summer time. The ferry ride takes 15-20 minutes and it's a wonderful way to enjoy the beautiful scenery by the sea. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 12 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 May 2024
- ClaudiaNLThe Netherlands127 contributionsLovely walks on the islandsSuomenlinna is a fortress spread over several islands just off the coast of Helsinki. Very important in the past, nowadays a residential area. The pound sails back and forth regularly, you can get there in no time and it is very affordable. Sufficient explanation about the history available. You can enjoy walking and viewing the different parts. The most beautiful part is on the coast near the cannons.Dear ClaudiaMNL, Thank you for your review! It's true that the coast in Kustaanmiekka island is very beautiful place. You can find it by following the Blue route until the last island. The Blue route is marked with the blue line in our maps and it goes via all the main sights of Suomenlinna. If you would like to learn more about the history of Suomenlinna, we recommend to visit in Suomenlinna Museum which has exhibitions and a short film about the history of the fortress. You can also join a guided tour which runs every week and is organized by Ehrensvärd Society. Welcome again to Suomenlinna!Written 18 May 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 17 May 2024
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jordanellie41
Longridge, UK1,247 contributions
Oct 2024 • Solo
This is a truly wonderful step back in time place to visit. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and with good reason. The ferry is 3€ each way and it costs nothing to walk around the island. Following the blue route it only took me 1.5 hours to get around but I was walking fast due to the weather conditions. It's also advisable to sometimes veer off the blue route as I found some nice photo opportunities on the water banks while doing so. There are numerous cannons, bunkers, even a submarine to see and breath taking views of the sea in lots of places.
When I was here it was a bit drizzly and cloudy but still magnificent. I would expect with better weather conditions your day would be longer and the views even more stunning and you could probably see the city too.
Apart from the views, the best part of the walk is saved until last when you finally reach the end of the blue route and come across the fabulous King's Gate.
Definitely worth a visit in any weather and not to be missed!
When I was here it was a bit drizzly and cloudy but still magnificent. I would expect with better weather conditions your day would be longer and the views even more stunning and you could probably see the city too.
Apart from the views, the best part of the walk is saved until last when you finally reach the end of the blue route and come across the fabulous King's Gate.
Definitely worth a visit in any weather and not to be missed!
Written 12 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear jordanellie41,
Thank you for your review!
We are very happy to hear you enjoyed Suomenlinna. We agree that Suomenlinna can be visited in any weather and in all seasons! If you feel cold during your visit, you can warm up in wonderful museums, restaurants or cafes. There are six different museums in Suomenlinna and two of them are open all year round. The HSL ferry runs to Suomenlinna throughout the year. We recommend to visit Suomenlinna in different seasons as all of the seasons have their unique atmosphere and characters.
Welcome again to Suomenlinna!
Written 17 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Katie H
Melbourne, Australia593 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
A stroll around the fortress is a lovely way to spend a morning. Views across the water are beautiful, and to garner a perspective on the way this island has been used - and continues to be - is interesting in understanding more about Helsinki and Finland.
Some tips for your visit:
Wearing good walking shoes here is helpful, particularly around the walls. There are many cobblestones and areas that are not easy to navigate for those with strollers / prams / wheelchairs, or those who may be unsteady on their feet.
Plan to head out on a morning ferry to enjoy the island before the throngs. In the summer, the queues for the ferry at Market Square are long and it makes for many, many people on the island at once.
Make sure to buy the Helsinki Card for your visit here (and the city in general), otherwise you’ll be paying an entry fee to each building on the island that you may wish to visit.
Some tips for your visit:
Wearing good walking shoes here is helpful, particularly around the walls. There are many cobblestones and areas that are not easy to navigate for those with strollers / prams / wheelchairs, or those who may be unsteady on their feet.
Plan to head out on a morning ferry to enjoy the island before the throngs. In the summer, the queues for the ferry at Market Square are long and it makes for many, many people on the island at once.
Make sure to buy the Helsinki Card for your visit here (and the city in general), otherwise you’ll be paying an entry fee to each building on the island that you may wish to visit.
Written 16 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear La_tiburona, thank you for your review!
In Suomenlinna, one can spend the day exploring the sea fortress and beautiful islands. Exploring the fortress and islands is free, but the museums in Suomenlinna, excluding the Customs Museum, have an entry fee. The six museums in Suomenlinna include for example the Ehrensvärd museum, which is the house of the founder of the fortress, and the decommissioned submarine Vesikko.
It is indeed important to wear good walking shoes and take into account that some roads on the islands are paved with cobblestones or may otherwise have difficult terrain. More information about the accessibility of Suomenlinna and a more accessible route can be found from our website at https://www.suomenlinna.fi/en/visitor/accessibility/.
Hope to see you again soon in Suomenlinna! Stop by the Suomenlinna visitor centre next to the ferry pier to get the best tips for your visit.
Written 17 July 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael S
Leeds, UK26 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
An absolutely fabulous half a day out with my daughter. Best attraction in Helsinki . It only cost 6euros return on the 15 min ferry from the market place in Helsinki . No need to book -just pay at the machine at the departure point . Lovely smooth ride across to the island . You can’t get lost because every thing is signposted . You can follow the recommended blue signs around but you can’t get lost . We chose the submarine and military museums which in total cost me 4E and my daughter 7E. Great value . Beautiful walk (take a picnic I suggest as the cafes are pricey) . Stunning views all around . Breathtaking scenery . Lovely views across to Helsinki. We spent 3hours on the island . Absolutely highlight of our 4day break in a lovely country . Free to enter the island. You can join a one hour guided tour on Friday and Saturday or you can pay 5euros to get a digital guide onto your phone . This is an absolute MUST visit place in Finland!
Written 9 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear michaelsV2227CB, thank you for your review!
One can get to Suomenlinna easily on the HSL public transport ferry, and the ferry ride is a great opportunity to admire views of Helsinki from the sea. The best way to explore the islands and to see all the main historical sights is to follow the blue route. The blue route can be found from our online guide at guide.suomenlinna.fi. To get to know the sea fortress and its history even more, one can join a guided tour.
There are six museums on the islands, including for example the Suomenlinna Toy Museum and the Ehrensvärd museum, which is the house of the founder of the fortress. There are several cafés and restaurants on the islands where one can take a break from exploring.
We hope to see you again soon in Suomenlinna! Stop by the Suomenlinna Visitor Centre next to the ferry pier to get the best tips for your visit.
Written 10 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ruth J
London, UK174 contributions
Sept 2024 • Friends
Catch the ferry to Suomelina from the harbour market square. You can use the same one day ticket for zones AB that are used on trams etc so it's so cheap! The ferry was busy but only took about 20 minutes. Once there, it's at least a mile to the other end of the island passing cafes, a few shops, a museum, cannons, a church as well as the fortress buildings on the way. If you like swimming from rocks the far end of the island has several places. A useful supermarket is next to the ferry with coffee and snacks.
Written 21 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear ruthj196,
Thank you for your detailed review! We're glad to hear you had an enjoyable visit to Suomenlinna and found the ferry ride from Market Square convenient and affordable using the AB zone day ticket—indeed, it's a great value!
The short 15 to 20-minute ferry trip gives you a scenic start to your adventure. As you mentioned, the island offers a variety of things to see along the way, from cafés and shops to historical cannons, the unique church that also serves as a lighthouse, and, of course, the impressive fortress itself. To make the most out of your adventure make sure to follow the "blue route" which takes you to the highlights of the fortress and is easy to follow since it is marked on our map as well as signposted outside. For those who enjoy swimming, there is a beach for a refreshing dip during the summer months.
Warmly welcome back to Suomenlinna!
Written 22 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Angeliki_Lambrou
Greece33 contributions
Jun 2023 • Business
A very nice experience !
Suomenlinna has quite a calm and unique atmosphere, and it is important to dress warmly when visiting.
Suomenlinna is a UNESCO world heritage site as a unique example of the military architecture of its time. The sea fortress has also been part of the defense of three different realms; Sweden, Russia and Finland. Nowadays Suomenlinna is a lively neighborhood of Helsinki with some 800 inhabitants. In addition to the military museum, it is worth visiting the Suomenlinna museum to learn about the history of the sea fortress
If you are in Helsinki don't miss it !The ferry ride is an essential part of the visit experience as you can enjoy the sea breeze and views of the city and archipelagos !
Suomenlinna has quite a calm and unique atmosphere, and it is important to dress warmly when visiting.
Suomenlinna is a UNESCO world heritage site as a unique example of the military architecture of its time. The sea fortress has also been part of the defense of three different realms; Sweden, Russia and Finland. Nowadays Suomenlinna is a lively neighborhood of Helsinki with some 800 inhabitants. In addition to the military museum, it is worth visiting the Suomenlinna museum to learn about the history of the sea fortress
If you are in Helsinki don't miss it !The ferry ride is an essential part of the visit experience as you can enjoy the sea breeze and views of the city and archipelagos !
Written 22 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear AngelikiLambrou,
Thank you for your great review!
We are happy to hear you enjoyed your visit in Suomenlinna. It's true that Suomenlinna Sea Fortress has very unique atmosphere and there are plenty of places to explore. We recommend to follow the Blue route to see all the main sights of the fortress.
Besides the Military Museum and the Suomenlinna Museum, we also recommend to visit all the other interesting museums in Suomenlinna: Submarine Vesikko, Toy Museum, Customs Museum and Ehrensvärd Museum. Customs Museum has a free entrance and Submarine Vesikko you can visit with the same ticket with Military Museum. In addition to museums, we also have lovely restaurants and cafés in Suomenlinna which we warmly recommend to explore.
Hope to see you again in Suomenlinna!
Written 23 May 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
norman W
Braintree, UK1,767 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
A short, cheap, ferry trip across the water for Helsinki harbour is this interesting island fortification. Building started in 1748 and has been used on various war footings since that time. Dotted around the, somewhat tiring, pathways of the island are many old relics in shape of cannons, derricks etc etc. A wonderful few hours wandering with, thank goodness, a few bars and restaurants. Well worth a visit and, even better, if you are lucky enough to enjoy good weather as we did.
Written 21 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear normantalktalk,
Thank you so much for the review, we are delighted to hear you enjoyed your visit! Suomenlinna sea fortress is a UNESCO world heritage site due to it being an unique example of military architecture of the time. The fortress was shaped by three historic eras when it helped to defend first Sweden, then Russia and ultimately Finland. Besides being a historical fortress, Suomenlinna is also a residential district of Helsinki with around 800 residents. The best and most sustainable way to explore the fortress is by following the marked "blue route". It takes you through all the key sites of the islands and you will find plenty of cafes and restaurants, as well as six museums along the way. We look forward to welcoming you back to Suomenlinna!
Written 22 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Prj58
Rome, Italy556 contributions
Sept 2023 • Business
Island completely occupied by the various buildings that make up the Suomenlina fortress which also includes the Naval Academy.
The buildings are from various eras and, therefore, also of different styles, around the greenery of the public park.
Various points of historical interest testifying to the various events in the history of the fortress, created to defend the naval base well before the city of Helsinki.
The buildings are from various eras and, therefore, also of different styles, around the greenery of the public park.
Various points of historical interest testifying to the various events in the history of the fortress, created to defend the naval base well before the city of Helsinki.

Written 26 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Prj58, thank you for your review and for visiting Suomenlinna!
The Suomenlinna sea fortress is actually made up of eight different islands. The construction of the sea fortress began in 1748 when Finland was part of Sweden, and Sweden wanted to improve the defenses of its Eastern areas. The oldest parts of the fortress and the impressive King's gate are located on the southernmost Kustaanmiekka island. The recommended route for exploring the islands is the Blue route, which takes you through the three main islands and to all the key sights. The blue route can be found from our online guide at guide.suomenlinna.fi.
As the Suomenlinna sea fortress is tightly linked to some important events in Finnish history, a visit to the sea fortress has a lot to offer for those interested in history. You can delve into the history of the fortress by joining a guided tour or visiting the Suomenlinna museum.
Welcome again to Suomenlinna! Make sure to stop by the Suomenlinna visitor centre next to the ferry pier to get the best tips for your visit.
Written 27 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
An Average Reviewer
Singapore, Singapore95 contributions
Oct 2024 • Family
Took a 15 minute ferry ride from the port near the Old market hall to the island. You do not need to buy an additional separate ticket if you already have a valid HSL day ticket (AB zone).
We followed the Blue route and took us around 2 hours to explore the island. There are a few cafes around the island and a museum to learn more about the history of the island. The weather was cloudy/drizzling but it was still worth to walk around the island and discover the despite the weather.
We followed the Blue route and took us around 2 hours to explore the island. There are a few cafes around the island and a museum to learn more about the history of the island. The weather was cloudy/drizzling but it was still worth to walk around the island and discover the despite the weather.
Written 13 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear an_ average _reviewer,
Thank you for taking the time to give us areview after visiting us.
You can easily take the Suomenlinna ferry from Helsinki Market Square all year round. As you mention it´s only a 15 minutes sea trip to reach the fortress. In summer season (May-September) there is also a waterbus option. Note that this service is operated by a private company. Tickets can be bought in advance on line or on board from the staff.
Start your next visit from Suomenlinna Visitor Centre next to the main ferry pier. There our staff can show you the Blue route on an aerial photo and give you suitable tips for your day.
Warmly welcome again to Suomenlinna!
Written 14 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Edsurash
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia1,629 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
The island is a nice place to explore and to get to know a little about Finnish History.
It cost €4.50 for a one way ferry trip and the ride is less then 20 minutes. The ferry leaves once in every 40 minutes.
Exploring the island should not take you more then 3 hours.
Most of the restaurants there require reservations if you are going there on the weekend or public holidays so be mindful of this if you are planning to have a meal there however there’s a grocery store on the island where you can pick up supplies if you plan to have a picnic here.
The church on the island is simple and beautiful and there are a few spots where you can enjoy beautiful sun sets.
There’s a lot a beer brewing on the island which I did not visit.
Worth the visit especially in the summer if you want a break from Helsinki city.
It cost €4.50 for a one way ferry trip and the ride is less then 20 minutes. The ferry leaves once in every 40 minutes.
Exploring the island should not take you more then 3 hours.
Most of the restaurants there require reservations if you are going there on the weekend or public holidays so be mindful of this if you are planning to have a meal there however there’s a grocery store on the island where you can pick up supplies if you plan to have a picnic here.
The church on the island is simple and beautiful and there are a few spots where you can enjoy beautiful sun sets.
There’s a lot a beer brewing on the island which I did not visit.
Worth the visit especially in the summer if you want a break from Helsinki city.
Written 8 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear O5155SOeds,
Thank you for giving us a review.
Suomenlinna sea fortress has indeed a rich and interesting history that has played an important role in the defence history of three realms: Sweden, Finland and Russia. You can learn more about the history by visiting the Suomenlinna Museum where a short film in different languages is also shown. Alternatively, you can join a guided walking tour. These guided tours are organised regularly.
We recommend following the blue route for exploring the fortress and seeing its main historical sights. This route is about 1.5 kilometres long.
There are many nice cafés and restaurants that cater for different tastes and budgets. You can check their daily opening hours in our online guide. Usually you can find a nice restaurant to enjoy lunch or dinner even without reservation. One of these restaurants is a brewery restaurant where some of their locally produced beer is brewn in the premises.
It is easy to visit Suomenlinna in all seasons as Suomenlinna ferry operates all year round. Changing seasons and weather are part of the charm of Suomenlinna. In winter the atmosphere is peaceful and calm. Many events are also organised in winter season.
Hope to see you soon again in Suomenlinna! Stop by Suomenlinna Tourist Information at the Jetty Barracks to get the best tips of the day for your visit.
Best regards,
Annamaria/ Suomenlinna Tourist Information
Written 31 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ben White
Northampton, UK3,367 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
After almost every travel blog suggested visiting Suomenlinna when visiting Helsinki, so it was definitely on our agenda.
It's a 9 euro return on a ferry, which you get from the Market Square and there’s a few different ferries which go and one which is dedicated to residents only. There’s two main ‘islands’ to explore with two smaller ‘islands’. We grabbed a map from the visitor’s centre and started exploring.
I don’t know what I was expecting but I was little underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, the colourful wooden houses are beautiful, and the views of the sea are stunning but I felt like it was lacking anything unique or exciting. As it’s a UNESCO world heritage site, you can tell the island is filled with nature and history. Because I’m not a history buff, maybe this is the reason I lacked any fascination.
It was quite busy, but there’s a sufficient number of toilets and they have a supermarket and café/restaurant on the island, plus a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
If this is your kind of thing, I feel like you could easily spend 4-5 hours here exploring the grounds and learning about the history of the Finnish defending themselves in the 18th century but unfortunately we were fed up after 1.5 hours.
Overall, I wouldn’t go back if I were to visit Helsinki again and it’s such a shame as I really wanted to enjoy Suomenlinna as I only ever heard good things but unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be. But regardless of my opinion this doesn’t take away from the beauty of the sea fortress
It's a 9 euro return on a ferry, which you get from the Market Square and there’s a few different ferries which go and one which is dedicated to residents only. There’s two main ‘islands’ to explore with two smaller ‘islands’. We grabbed a map from the visitor’s centre and started exploring.
I don’t know what I was expecting but I was little underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, the colourful wooden houses are beautiful, and the views of the sea are stunning but I felt like it was lacking anything unique or exciting. As it’s a UNESCO world heritage site, you can tell the island is filled with nature and history. Because I’m not a history buff, maybe this is the reason I lacked any fascination.
It was quite busy, but there’s a sufficient number of toilets and they have a supermarket and café/restaurant on the island, plus a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
If this is your kind of thing, I feel like you could easily spend 4-5 hours here exploring the grounds and learning about the history of the Finnish defending themselves in the 18th century but unfortunately we were fed up after 1.5 hours.
Overall, I wouldn’t go back if I were to visit Helsinki again and it’s such a shame as I really wanted to enjoy Suomenlinna as I only ever heard good things but unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be. But regardless of my opinion this doesn’t take away from the beauty of the sea fortress
Written 13 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Ben927,
Thank you for taking the time to give us a review! We are sorry to hear that Suomenlinna sea fortress did not meet your expectations. It’s true that Suomenlinna can feel quite different depending on personal interests, but there really is something for everyone—from rich history and stunning sea views to cozy cafés and nature trails.
To clarify, there are two ferry services to Suomenlinna, both departing from Helsinki’s Market Square. The HSL public ferry operates year-round and is the main mode of transport for both residents and visitors. Since Suomenlinna is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a residential area, it can get busy during peak season. To ensure residents can return to their homes, there is a designated gate for them to board the same ferry, but there aren’t separate ferries just for residents. The ferry is part of Helsinki’s public transportation system, so the same tickets apply—such as the 9-euro 24-hour ticket, which covers all public transport, or a single ticket valid for 80 minutes and priced accordingly. From May to September, there’s also the option to take the FRS waterbus, which departs from the same Market square.
For those who enjoy history and nature, Suomenlinna offers a unique blend of both, from exploring the underground tunnels to visiting the museums and historical landmarks. To help tailor your visit, we always recommend starting at the Visitor Centre, where you can get personalized tips and guidance. There’s a lot to discover, from hidden nooks to cultural attractions like galleries, restaurants, and cafés. You can even enjoy seasonal events, so each visit can offer something different. For some, a few hours may be enough, while others might find themselves immersed for the entire day.
We hope you give Suomenlinna another chance if you ever return to Helsinki, and thank you again for your thoughtful review.
Written 17 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I want to now how i get there in November because the normal ferry does not sale to the island in the wintertime
Written 4 November 2024
Hi Petra! Thank you so much for your question. Our deepest apologies for noticing it so late. Luckily, our wonderful community has provided you the right kind of answers. Thank you very much Swedishtomcat and rmguptes. The ferry runs to Suomenlinna all year round every day of the year. The first ferry runs early in the morning and the last one back to mainland runs late at night. The best thing is that it's part of the regional public transportation system of HSL and you can combine trams, buses and metro on the same commute if you have a valid HSL-ticket. Hope we see you in Suomenlinna!
Written 3 December 2024
Thank you for your question and many thanks to all our visitors for sharing their experience on the topic! It is possible to commute from the airport to Helsinki central railway station very smoothly by train. From the central railway station, it's not a long walk (about 1 km) to Kauppatori Market Square where you can take a ferry to Suomenlinna. The ferry takes only about 15 minutes and runs frequently all year round. We recommend using our online guide on our website for checking the schedules and planning your visit in Suomenlinna.
Welcome to Suomenlinna!
Written 23 September 2022
Здравствуйте? Вход в крепость платный? Или по территории можно бесплатно гулять? Сколько стоят экскурсии с гидом?
Written 2 October 2019
По территории можно гулять долго и бесплатно. Виды потрясающие. В отдельные подземелья тоже можно зайти свободно.
Written 8 October 2019
I'll be visiting in early September (somewhere between 9-12 Sept). I checked online that sun sets around 20:00, would it be a good timing (in the sense that I get to stroll around and take pictures) for me to visit the island from 17:00-19:00?
Written 4 August 2019
Hi, I think that you should be able to see some attractions and enjoy the sunset too. The Ferry is running and there are food places and Market open too on the Island. Enjoy it :) its worth to take the ferry and see the city from this angle. Post some photos.
Written 10 August 2019
por favor, me podías decir cuanto tiempo emplea el barco en hacer la ruta ?
Written 5 June 2019
Media hora para llegar y media para volver, el recorrerla toda, alrededor de tres horas
Written 6 June 2019
Не уверен, что из западного терминала можно добраться до крепости. Мы отправлялись с рыночной площади(Kauppatori Salutorget) и плыли минут 15 всего.
С этой площади отправляется 2 парома: частный и городской. Первый стоит дороже и приплывает в центр острова. Второй останавливается в самом начале.
Городской отходит от паромного причала.
Written 5 June 2019
How can we get the tickets to visit the fort, museums and tour?
Written 5 May 2019
Dear Agus,
Thank you for your question and interest in Suomenlinna!
Suomenlinna sea fortress is an open-air destination without any entrance fee. There are 6 different museums in Suomenlinna and you can get the tickets inside each museum. You can buy the tickets for the guided tours online or from the Suomenlinna Centre and all the guided tours begin at the Suomenlinna Centre.
Hopefully I gave you enough information. Welcome to Suomenlinna!
Best regards
Elisa / Suomenlinna Tourist Information
Written 5 May 2019
Should ferry tickets be bought online or bought from market square ?
Written 17 April 2019
Hello! That's right. At the Market Square, there are blue ticket vending machines where you can buy tickets for the public ferry HSL.
Welcome to Suomenlinna!
Best Regards,
Aslak / Suomenlinna Tourist Information
Written 22 April 2019
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