Welcome to Coast and Archipelago

Experience maritime culture and an easy-going island lifestyle that's easy to fall in love with.

About Coast and Archipelago

From lively coastal cities to secluded lighthouses, historic manors and national parks, Finland's coast has it all. With more than 50,000 beautiful islands scattered across the sea, this is the world’s largest archipelago, and there are plenty of hidden gems to be discovered.

7 reasons to visit Coast and Archipelago

There are plenty of things to love in Finland's coastal region from the laidback way of living, charming wooden towns, fresh, local food, beaches, and much more. Here's a look at some of the reasons to choose Coast and Archipelago as your next holiday destination.

Credits: Visit Åland, Daniel Eriksson

Visit a lighthouse island

One of the most unique features of this region are the lighthouse islands. Take a trip to Bengtskär near Turku where you’ll find the tallest lighthouse in the Nordics. Söderskär is a 150-year-old lighthouse located only one-hour boat trip from Helsinki. These lighthouses and many others are a must-see in the Coast and Archipelago.

Credits: Julia Kivelä

Explore five UNESCO sites

The coastal region is home to five of Finland’s seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit them all from the famous Fortress of Suomenlinna to Old Rauma, the Bronze Age Burial Site of Sammallahdenmäki, the Struve Geodetic Arc, and the Kvarken Archipelago in the Gulf of Bothnia.

Take a trip to a historical village

Finland’s coast – with its close historical ties to the Swedish kingdom – has many charming, old towns and villages to visit. Some of the most popular ones include historical Porvoo near Helsinki, the ironwork villages of Fiskars, Billnäs, and Mathildedal, as well as the wooden towns from Hamina to Naantali, Old Rauma, and Pori.

Visit Finland's best beaches

The coastal region is home to the longest and sunniest beaches in Finland, loved by Finns and visitors alike. Take a trip to Kalajoki, Yyteri, Hanko, or Nallikari to experience the best of the short but oh-so-sweet Finnish summer. The best months for beach visits are July and August.

Go cycling on famous routes

If you’re an activity lover, head to Coast and Archipelago. Some of Finland’s best cycling routes, like the Archipelago Trail – 250km ring route through the Turku Archipelago – and Åland’s famous cycling roads, are all located here.

Try Finland’s freshest delicacies

Due to the mild weather and sunny summer days, the coastal region produces some of Finland’s best produce from sweet tomatoes to the ripest organic apples. You’ll also find great seafood, some of the country’s best restaurants, like Kaskis in Turku, and top distilleries and craft beer makers in this region.

Credits: Mikko Suosukainen

Experience Finland's bilingual culture

Finland used to be a part of Sweden until 1809 and Swedish has remained the second official language of Finland to this day. In the coastal regions, especially in the Åland islands, you’ll get to experience the country’s bilingual culture from the language to the traditions.

Get to know the region

All of Finland’s four regions are special in their own way. Here are a few things that are unique about this one.

10 islands to visit in Finnish Archipelago

Plan your trip to Finland, home to the world's largest archipelago, and discover 10 must-see islands.

Meet the Moomins

The Moomins, those charming and whimsical white trolls, have left a significant mark on Finnish culture and history, and captured the hearts of people around the world.

The wooden towns of Finland

Finland's wooden towns, such as Old Porvoo or Old Rauma, are interesting pieces of history that shouldn't be missed.

Experience Hanko, Tammisaari & Raasepori

Discover the top things to do and way of life in three idyllic cities located in southern Finland.

Easy-access lighthouses to visit

Escape to Finland's secluded islands and discover six must-see lighthouses with easy, year-round access.

Top things to do in the Åland islands

Discover some of the many things to do, see and experience in the Åland archipelago with these recommendations from Finland's official tourism website.

Top five places to stay on the Finnish coast

If you're looking for incredible accommodations and unique experiences, check out this list of the top accommodations on Finland's coast.

Cruise your way to Finland

If you're looking for an alternative to flying, a Baltic Sea cruise is a great way to reach Finland.

Turku

Turku, Finland's oldest city, is a great destination for history buffs, foodies, and those looking for a laidback city break in a charming Nordic town.

Experience the Vaasa and Seinäjoki region

Discover a unique combination of nature-centric activities and modern urban experiences in and around Finland's Vaasa and Seinäjoki region.

Best food and drinks in Turku, Vaasa and Oulu

Explore the best food and drinks in Turku, Vaasa and Oulu, and enjoy Finland's culinary coast.

B&B and hotel accommodation on the Finnish coast

Discover a unique, sea-faring way of life and choose from a handful of family-run accommodations for your next trip to Finland's coast and archipelago.

Coast and Archipelago destinations

Would you like to know more about the destinations in Coast and Archipelago? Click on the pins in the map to discover the best places to visit.

Things to do in Coast & Archipelago

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Attractions

Activities

Nature activities

Food and drinks

Sauna

Inspiration for your journey

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Here are a few sample journeys through the coast and archipelago with suggestions for what to see, eat and do. When you find something you like, click the heart icon to save it.