Exploring Suomenlinna Sea Fortress - A Cool Adventure in Helsinki, Finland

Originally published on Medium, now updated for Vocal!

Are you ready to learn about one of the coolest places you could visit? It’s called the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and it’s not just any old fortress — it’s a massive sea fortress spread across several islands! If you find yourself in Helsinki, Finland, this is one adventure you definitely shouldn’t miss. Especially during the summertime, visiting Suomenlinna can be an adventure!

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. I may earn a commission from purchases, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Suomi Unveiled!

What is Suomenlinna?

Suomenlinna (which means “Fortress of Finland”) is not just a single spot but a cluster of islands connected by bridges. This fortress is so big and important that it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That’s like being named one of the planet’s treasures!

Where is Suomenlinna Located?

Suomenlinna is right off the coast of Helsinki, the capital city of Finland. Helsinki sits in the southern part of the country, right by the sea, so Suomenlinna is just a short ferry ride away from the city center.

How Did Suomenlinna Come to Be?

Way back in 1748, when Finland was part of the Swedish Empire, the big bosses decided they needed a strong fortress to protect against other countries that might want to invade. So, they started building Suomenlinna. But by the time it was finished, Finland was under Russian rule. This fortress has seen a lot of history, and each part of it tells a bit of the story of Finland’s past.

What to Do in Suomenlinna?

There’s a ton to do here, and it’s perfect for a day trip. You can walk around the fortress walls and feel like a knight or a princess from hundreds of years ago. There are also tunnels to explore (bring a flashlight!), museums, and even a submarine from the Cold War that you can check out.

Imagine walking where soldiers once marched, peeking through old cannon ports, and learning about the battles that were fought there. And the best part? The views! You get an amazing view of the sea and Helsinki from the fortress.

To dive deeper into Suomenlinna’s history, try the WeGoTrip audio guide for a self-guided tour of the fortress and Helsinki’s highlights. It’s a fun way to explore at your own pace!

Helsinki Things to Do

Besides visiting Suomenlinna, Helsinki itself is full of fun activities. You can visit beautiful parks, check out cool museums (like the Natural History Museum), and eat yummy Finnish food. Helsinki is a friendly city with lots of things to see and do, making it a great part of your trip.

Tips for Visiting Suomenlinna

1. Wear Comfy Shoes: There’s a lot of walking and the ground can be uneven, so wear your best walking shoes.

2. Pack Snacks and Water: There are places to eat there, but it’s always good to have something on hand, especially if you’re adventuring through tunnels or finding the perfect picnic spot.

3. Check the Weather: Since it’s in the middle of the sea, it can get windy. Dress in layers so you can be comfortable no matter what the weather is like.

Conclusion

So, if you’re ever in Helsinki and wondering what to do, definitely consider a round-trip ferry transfer to Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. It’s not just a journey back in time; it’s an adventure and a half across the sea. Bring your family, bring your curiosity, and most importantly, bring your sense of adventure. See you at the fortress!

Curious about Finland’s hidden gems? Subscribe for free to unlock my stories and tips in your inbox!