Aland Islands Travel Guide 2025 | Best Attractions, Festivals & Local Tips

Aland Islands

Quick Info

The Åland Islands, an archipelago located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland, are an autonomous region under Finnish sovereignty. Known for their scenic beauty, the islands are a paradise of rocky coastlines, lush forests, and serene waters, making them ideal for cycling, sailing, and fishing. With over 6,500 islands, only 60 are inhabited, offering a mix of vibrant villages and untouched nature. The islands have a distinct cultural identity, with Swedish being the official language. Visitors are drawn to the islands’ rich maritime heritage, traditional wooden houses, and historical sites like Kastelholm Castle.

Capital:

Main cities:

Mariehamn, Eckerö, Jomala, Lemland, Saltvik

International airport:

Mariehamn Airport (MHQ)

Population:

About 30,000

Area:

1,580 sq km

Dependency Status:

Autonomous region of Finland

Language:

Swedish, Finnish

Currency:

Euro (€)

Time zone:

GMT +2

Country Code:

+358

Driving:

Right-hand side

Electricity:

Plug and Outlet Type: Type C and F, standard voltage 230V

Emergency Number:

112

Tipping:

Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. Rounding up the bill is common.

Map

Best Time to Visit

Aland Islands

The best time to visit the Åland Islands is from late May to September, when the weather is warm and the archipelago is alive with activities. Summer, particularly in June, July, and August, is the peak tourist season. During these months, the temperatures are mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor adventures such as sailing, cycling, and exploring the islands’ beaches. Visitors can enjoy long daylight hours, as Åland experiences almost 20 hours of sunlight during midsummer. It’s also the season for cultural events, including traditional Midsummer celebrations and the Åland Maritime Days.

Spring (April to early May) and early autumn (September) are also great times to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds. The weather is cooler but still pleasant for hiking, birdwatching, and discovering the natural beauty of the islands. In autumn, the foliage transforms the landscape into a tapestry of red and gold, making it a picturesque time for photography. Winter, from November to March, is quieter, with cold temperatures and shorter days, but it offers a peaceful retreat for those interested in experiencing the islands' off-season charm and cozying up in traditional cabins.

Top 10 Attractions in

Aland Islands

Kastelholm Castle: A 14th-century fortress and the only medieval castle in Åland. It’s a well-preserved historical site where visitors can explore the castle’s museum and learn about the islands’ royal history.

Aland Maritime Museum: Located in Mariehamn, this museum showcases the maritime heritage of the islands with exhibits on shipping, shipbuilding, and the famous sailing ship Pommern.

Pommern: A 4-masted barque ship permanently docked in Mariehamn’s western harbor. Visitors can board the ship and experience what life was like for sailors during the golden age of sailing.

Bomarsund Fortress: The ruins of a 19th-century Russian fortress, offering a glimpse into Åland’s military past. The site is surrounded by scenic views and hiking trails.

Jan Karlsgården Open-Air Museum: A cultural site near Kastelholm Castle, featuring traditional Åland farmhouses, windmills, and cottages, giving insight into rural life in the 19th century.

Mariehamn: The charming capital of Åland, known for its maritime history, cozy cafes, and wooden houses. The city’s harbor and lively streets make it a perfect place to explore local culture.

Eckerö Post and Customs House: One of Åland’s most beautiful historical buildings, this 19th-century structure now houses a museum and art gallery. It’s a symbol of the islands’ role in postal history between Sweden and Russia.

Kobba Klintar: A small island and former pilot station located near Mariehamn, offering stunning sea views and a taste of Åland’s maritime past. It’s a popular spot for day trips.

Geta Caves: A natural attraction in the northern part of Åland, where visitors can hike to dramatic rock formations and caves. The area also offers panoramic views of the archipelago.

Lilla Holmen: A picturesque island located just off the coast of Mariehamn, known for its sandy beach, bird sanctuary, and walking paths. It’s a great spot for a family outing or a quiet retreat.

Local Tips -

Aland Islands

Cycle Around the Islands: Åland is best explored by bike, with over 1,000 kilometers of well-marked cycling paths. Renting a bike is easy, and you can cycle between islands using ferries.
Take Advantage of the Ferries: Åland is an archipelago, and ferries are the main way to travel between islands. The local ferry network is well-organized and connects even the smallest islands, making island-hopping a breeze.
Book Accommodations Early: During the peak summer months, hotels and guesthouses fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to book well in advance, especially for popular spots in Mariehamn.
Learn Some Swedish: Although English is widely spoken, locals appreciate it when visitors try a few words in Swedish, such as “Hej” for hello and “Tack” for thank you.
Try Local Fish: The waters around Åland are rich in fish, and local specialties like smoked perch, Baltic herring, and pike are must-tries. Restaurants serve fresh fish dishes throughout the islands.
Respect Nature: Åland is a nature lover’s paradise, so follow the principles of Allemansrätten (the right to roam) and leave no trace when exploring forests, beaches, and hiking trails.
Explore the Smaller Islands: While Mariehamn and the larger islands are popular, some of Åland’s best-kept secrets are on the smaller islands, which offer peace, solitude, and stunning landscapes.
Experience a Sauna: The traditional Finnish sauna is a big part of Åland culture. Many accommodations and cottages have saunas, and there’s nothing like a refreshing dip in the sea afterward.
Attend a Midsummer Celebration: If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the traditional Midsummer festivities, which include raising the maypole, dancing, and feasting on local delicacies.
Visit Local Markets: Åland’s farmers’ markets offer a taste of the island’s local produce, from organic vegetables to artisanal cheeses and jams. It’s a great way to experience Åland’s culinary heritage.

Carnivals and Festivals in

Aland Islands

Åland Maritime Days: Held every July in Mariehamn, this festival celebrates Åland’s rich maritime history. It includes boat races, ship tours, live music, and market stalls, offering something for all ages.
Midsummer Celebrations: Midsummer is one of the biggest traditional celebrations in Åland, with maypoles, folk music, and dancing. It’s a joyful event where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the longest day of the year.
Viking Market: This annual market takes place in Kvarnbo and is a lively celebration of Åland’s Viking heritage. Visitors can enjoy Viking reenactments, traditional crafts, and food stalls offering Viking-era fare.
Åland Harvest Festival: Held in September, this festival celebrates the island’s agricultural bounty. Visitors can tour farms, taste local produce, and enjoy music and dancing in the countryside.
Åland Organ Festival: This music festival takes place in churches across the islands, featuring performances by world-class organists. It’s a must for classical music lovers, offering a peaceful, spiritual experience.

Cool Facts About

Aland Islands

Autonomous Region: Although part of Finland, Åland has its own government, flag, and postage stamps, and Swedish is the official language, not Finnish.
Island of Many Islands: Åland is made up of over 6,500 islands and islets, but only about 60 are inhabited. It’s a true archipelago with a rich maritime tradition.
Demilitarized Zone: Åland is a demilitarized region, meaning no military presence is allowed on the islands, a status that has been in place since 1856.
Longest Midsummer Pole: The Åland Islands are known for their elaborate Midsummer celebrations, and each village competes to raise the tallest and most decorated maypole.
Maritime Capital of Finland: Mariehamn, Åland’s capital, is home to Finland’s largest fleet of historic sailing ships, including the famous Pommern.
Home of the Vikings: Åland has a rich Viking history, with several archaeological sites dating back to the Viking Age, including burial mounds and ancient settlements.
A Sea of Apple Orchards: Åland’s mild maritime climate makes it ideal for growing apples, and the island is famous for its delicious apple cider and jams.
High Levels of Sunshine: Åland enjoys more sunshine than mainland Finland, making it a popular summer destination for sunseekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Åland Pancake: A local delicacy, Åland pancake (Ålandspannkaka) is a thick, cardamom-spiced pancake made with semolina or rice and served with whipped cream and jam.
Viking Games: The Viking Market includes competitions such as axe throwing, archery, and tug-of-war, all inspired by traditional Viking sports.

FAQ

What is Åland known for?
Åland is best known for its stunning archipelago of over 6,500 islands, rich maritime heritage, and unique autonomous status within Finland. The islands are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for sailing, cycling, and hiking. Åland’s capital, Mariehamn, is home to the famous Pommern sailing ship and the Aland Maritime Museum, both of which showcase the islands’ long history of seafaring. The region is also famous for its Viking heritage, traditional windmills, and apple orchards, making it a unique blend of nature, history, and culture.

Is Åland a good destination for families?
Yes, Åland is an excellent destination for families. The islands offer a variety of family-friendly activities, from visiting the interactive Åland Maritime Museum to exploring the medieval Kastelholm Castle. The calm waters around the archipelago make it ideal for safe swimming, and many beaches, like Lilla Holmen, have playgrounds and shallow areas for children. Families can also enjoy cycling on the island’s extensive network of bike paths, participating in fun cultural events, or taking ferry trips to explore smaller islands. Åland’s peaceful, safe atmosphere ensures a relaxing vacation for visitors of all ages.

Is Åland a safe destination for tourists?
Yes, Åland is one of the safest places to visit in Europe. The islands are peaceful, with a low crime rate and a close-knit community that welcomes visitors warmly. The region is also known for its safe cycling paths, well-maintained roads, and clear signage, making it easy to navigate for tourists. Natural hazards are minimal, though it's advisable to follow local guidelines when swimming or boating in the archipelago, as weather conditions can change quickly. Emergency services are efficient, and the islands have excellent healthcare facilities should the need arise.

Do you need a visa to visit Åland?
Åland is part of Finland, which is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. This means that EU and Schengen Zone citizens do not need a visa to visit Åland. Visitors from many other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, can enter Åland without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Zone. However, non-Schengen nationals should check Finland’s specific visa requirements before planning their trip. Remember to carry a valid passport or ID card for identification purposes when traveling to Åland.

What is the best way to get to Åland?
The best way to get to Åland is by ferry or plane. Regular ferries connect Åland to both Sweden and mainland Finland, with popular routes from Stockholm, Turku, and Helsinki. The ferry journey offers stunning views of the Baltic Sea and the surrounding archipelago. For those short on time, Mariehamn Airport (MHQ) offers direct flights from Helsinki and Stockholm. Once on the islands, renting a bike or car is a great way to explore the different towns, villages, and natural attractions spread across Åland’s many islands.

Should I rent a car on the island?
Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the more remote parts of the Åland archipelago, particularly if you’re traveling with family or have limited time. However, many visitors choose to rent bicycles instead, as Åland is famous for its extensive and well-maintained cycling paths. The island’s flat terrain and scenic routes make it a perfect cycling destination, allowing you to easily access attractions like Kastelholm Castle and Bomarsund Fortress. Public transport is also available, but for full flexibility, renting a car or bike is recommended.

Is Åland wheelchair accessible?
Åland offers good accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges, particularly in the capital, Mariehamn. Many of the main tourist attractions, including the Åland Maritime Museum, Pommern, and Kastelholm Castle, have been adapted for wheelchair users. Public spaces like restaurants, hotels, and ferry terminals generally provide accessible facilities, and many of the island’s cycling and walking paths are suitable for wheelchairs. However, some remote areas or smaller islands may be more difficult to navigate. It’s recommended to check with accommodations and attractions in advance to ensure they meet specific accessibility needs.

What are Åland’s most famous landmarks?
Åland’s most famous landmarks include Kastelholm Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress, and the Pommern, a four-masted sailing ship that is now a floating museum in Mariehamn. The Åland Maritime Museum is another must-visit, offering insight into the islands' rich seafaring history. Other notable landmarks include the ruins of Bomarsund Fortress, which tell the story of Åland’s military past, and the Eckerö Post and Customs House, a stunning 19th-century building symbolizing Åland’s important role in Nordic postal history. These landmarks provide a deep connection to Åland’s heritage and culture.

What are the best beaches on Åland?
Åland is home to several beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the Baltic Sea. Lilla Holmen, located near Mariehamn, is one of the most popular beaches, offering sandy shores, a bird sanctuary, and family-friendly facilities. Degersand Beach, located on Eckerö Island, is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and picnicking. Käringsund offers more secluded beaches with rocky outcrops and peaceful surroundings, perfect for those seeking tranquility. These beaches, with their clean waters and scenic backdrops, are great for both relaxation and outdoor activities.

What is unique about Åland’s wildlife?
Åland’s unique archipelago environment is home to a diverse range of wildlife, particularly bird species. The islands are a paradise for birdwatchers, with species like eagles, swans, and migratory seabirds commonly seen, especially in spring and autumn. Seals are also a common sight along the rocky shores, particularly on smaller islands like Kobba Klintar. The islands’ forests and wetlands are inhabited by deer, foxes, and a variety of marine life. Åland’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve highlights its commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

What traditional foods should you try on Åland?
Åland is known for its fresh local produce and traditional dishes. A must-try is the Ålandspannkaka (Åland pancake), a thick, cardamom-flavored pancake served with whipped cream and prunes or local jam. Seafood is also a staple of Åland’s cuisine, with dishes like smoked perch, Baltic herring, and pike being widely available. Don’t miss the chance to try local cheeses, apple cider from Åland’s orchards, and dark rye bread, often served with butter made from local dairy. Many restaurants and cafes across the islands offer these specialties, providing an authentic taste of Åland’s culinary traditions.

Can you drink tap water on Åland?
Yes, tap water on Åland is perfectly safe to drink and of excellent quality. The islands’ water is sourced from local wells and lakes, and it meets high European standards for cleanliness. Tap water is available in all hotels, restaurants, and public facilities, so there is no need to purchase bottled water. In fact, drinking tap water is encouraged as part of Åland’s commitment to sustainability and reducing plastic waste. Visitors can enjoy the fresh, clean taste of Åland’s water throughout their stay, whether in towns or the more rural areas of the islands.

What is the nightlife like on Åland?
Åland’s nightlife is relaxed and centers around its cozy pubs, cafes, and harbor-side bars, especially in Mariehamn. While the islands do not have a bustling nightclub scene, they offer a variety of laid-back options for evening entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, particularly during the summer months, and there are often events and festivals that bring the community together. Popular spots include Dino’s Bar & Grill and Indigo, which offer a friendly atmosphere and a good selection of local drinks. For those seeking a quieter night, the islands’ natural beauty makes for peaceful evening strolls or stargazing by the sea.

How can I stay connected to the internet on Åland?
Staying connected to the internet on Åland is easy, as most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Mariehamn and other major towns have good internet coverage, and many public spaces provide access to Wi-Fi. If you need internet while traveling between islands or in more remote areas, you can purchase a local SIM card with data or use your own mobile data plan. Coverage across the islands is generally reliable, although some of the smaller, more isolated islands may have limited connectivity. Planning ahead and downloading maps or guides is recommended for those venturing into these areas.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Åland?
Åland offers a variety of unique souvenirs that reflect its culture and craftsmanship. Popular choices include local handmade wool products, such as sweaters, scarves, and blankets, made from Ålandic sheep’s wool. Apple products are another specialty, with delicious apple ciders, juices, and jams made from the island’s orchards. Artisanal foods like dark rye bread, smoked fish, and local cheeses are also great for food lovers. Don’t forget to pick up traditional crafts, such as ceramics, hand-carved wooden items, and locally produced honey. These souvenirs offer a tangible connection to Åland’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

20 Essential Words

Hej – Hello

Tack – Thank you

Fika – Coffee break

Skål – Cheers

Mat – Food

Bröd – Bread

Fisk – Fish

Havet – The sea

Ö – Island

Slott – Castle

Cykel – Bicycle

Karta – Map

Hamn – Harbor

Skog – Forest

Natur – Nature

Vägar – Roads

Färja – Ferry

Badplats – Swimming spot

Vandring – Hiking

Museum – Museum

Famous figures connected to

Aland Islands

Gustaf Erikson: A prominent shipowner from Åland, Erikson was one of the last to operate a fleet of sailing ships in the early 20th century. His fleet, including the Pommern, is a symbol of Åland’s maritime heritage.
Sally Salminen: An Ålandic author, Salminen gained international fame for her novel Katrina, which portrays the struggles of women in rural Åland during the early 20th century.
Åke Lindman: A renowned Finnish-Swedish actor and director, Lindman was closely connected to Åland, often drawing on the islands’ landscape for inspiration in his films.
Henrik Norrthon: A filmmaker born in Åland, Norrthon is known for his work in Swedish cinema and has frequently highlighted his Åland roots in his storytelling.
Kurt Wallander (fictional): While not a real person, this famous detective from the novels by Henning Mankell visits Åland in one of the series’ episodes, drawing attention to the islands in Nordic noir literature.
Anton Julius Bruun: A Danish marine biologist who conducted important research on the Baltic Sea, including work in the waters surrounding Åland.
Anders Wiklöf: A successful businessman from Åland, Wiklöf is known for his philanthropic efforts on the islands, contributing to cultural and educational projects.
Algot Johansson: An influential Ålandic politician who played a key role in the islands’ autonomy negotiations with Finland in the 1920s.
Karin Erlandsson: A contemporary Ålandic author, Erlandsson writes children’s books and historical novels that often feature Åland’s unique landscapes and folklore.
Pekka Kuusisto: A Finnish violinist with ties to Åland, Kuusisto has performed at several music festivals on the islands, including the Åland Organ Festival.

Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

The Sailor’s Song: A Finnish drama that filmed several scenes on Åland’s picturesque coastlines and in the maritime town of Mariehamn.

Bergman Island: This Swedish drama includes scenes shot on Åland, showcasing its serene archipelago landscapes, which mirror the themes of isolation in the film.

Åland (Documentary): A Finnish documentary series exploring the history, culture, and nature of the Åland Islands, with breathtaking footage of its landscapes.

The Eternal Road: Some scenes of this Finnish historical drama, based on real events, were filmed on Åland to capture the rural beauty of the Baltic region.

Stormskärs Maja: A Swedish-Finnish television series from the 1970s, set in Åland and depicting the hard but beautiful life of islanders in the 19th century.

Harbour of Hope: This Swedish documentary about refugees during World War II includes scenes filmed in Åland’s ports, which served as a safe harbor during the war.

The Viking Way: A historical series that partially filmed on Åland, taking advantage of the islands’ Viking history and ancient burial sites as a backdrop.

Baltic Sea Adventure: A family-friendly film featuring Åland’s maritime activities, highlighting sailing and fishing as part of the islanders’ everyday life.

Nordic Mysteries: This TV crime series includes an episode filmed on Åland, where the island’s quiet villages and isolated beaches set the perfect tone for a thriller.

Fanny and Alexander: Although primarily set in Sweden, some outdoor scenes in this classic Ingmar Bergman film were shot in the Åland archipelago for its dramatic coastal views.

Aland Islands

Quick Info

Map

Best Time to Visit

Aland Islands

Top 10 Attractions in

Aland Islands

Local Tips -

Aland Islands

Carnivals and Festivals in

Aland Islands

Cool Facts About

Aland Islands

FAQ

20 Essential Words

Famous figures connected to

Aland Islands

Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

Videos

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