Kangasala Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture and customs in Kangasala, Finland. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kangasala

Kangasala is a small but beautiful town located in the heart of Pirkanmaa, in Finnish Lakeland, in Finland. It’s one of the oldest towns in the country and is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Visitors to Kangasala can explore the town’s numerous museums and historical sites, including the Kangasala Church and the Pekkala Manor, which date back to the 18th century. The town is also home to several beautiful parks and nature reserves, including the Sahalahti Nature Reserve and the stunning Kuhmoinen Ridge.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll highlight the best things to do and places to visit in Kangasala, as well as share tips and advice for making the most of your trip to this charming Finnish town.

List of Places to Visit in Kangasala

Kangasala offers a wide range of attractions, from museums and historical sites to stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Here are some of the top places to include on your Kangasala itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kangasala Church: This iconic church dates back to the 15th century and is one of the most visited attractions in Kangasala.

  • Pekkala Manor: This historic 18th-century manor is now a museum that offers visitors insight into Kangasala’s rich cultural heritage.

  • The Finnish Museum of Horology: This museum is dedicated to the history of timekeeping and houses a vast collection of timepieces from around the world.

  • The Serlachius Museum Gustaf: This award-winning museum is housed in an old paper mill and showcases a range of contemporary art exhibitions.

Natural Attractions of Kangasala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sahalahti Nature Reserve: This stunning nature reserve offers visitors the chance to explore the Finnish wilderness and observe local wildlife such as bears, deer, and lynx.

  • Kuhmoinen Ridge: This beautiful hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Lake Vesijärvi.

  • Pälkäneen Kanava: This beautiful canal offers visitors the chance to take a boat ride through the Finnish countryside and see the local wildlife up close.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kangasala

Kangasala is known for its beautiful hiking and biking trails, which offer visitors the chance to explore the stunning Finnish countryside. Some of the best routes include:

  • The Tampere Hiking Area: This scenic hiking trail is located just a short drive from Kangasala and takes visitors through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area.

  • The Kuhmoinen Ridge: This beautiful hiking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Lake Vesijärvi.

  • The Kintulammi Nature Reserve: This pristine nature reserve features over 40 kilometers of hiking trails and is home to a wide range of local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Kangasala: Activities and Tours

Kangasala offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Kangasala:

  • Visit Kangasala Church: This iconic church is one of the most visited attractions in the town and offers visitors a glimpse into Kangasala’s rich history and culture.

  • Take a boat tour: There are several companies that offer boat tours around Lake Vesijärvi, allowing visitors to see the local wildlife up close.

  • Visit the Pekkala Manor: This historic manor is now a museum that offers visitors insight into Kangasala’s rich cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kangasala

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kangasala, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the town center and visit Kangasala Church

  • Day 2: Take a boat tour around Lake Vesijärvi

  • Day 3: Visit the Pekkala Manor

  • Day 4: Explore the Kuhmoinen Ridge

  • Day 5: Visit the Finnish Museum of Horology

  • Day 6: Hike the Tampere Hiking Area

  • Day 7: Visit the Serlachius Museum Gustaf

Food and Drink Scene of Kangasala

No trip to Kangasala would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karelian pies: A traditional Finnish pastry filled with rice or potatoes and served with butter.

  • Smoked salmon: A local delicacy that can be found in many restaurants in Kangasala.

  • Finnish meatballs: A classic Finnish dish made with pork and beef and served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Sahti: A traditional Finnish beer made with juniper berries and malted barley.

  • Koskenkorva: A popular Finnish vodka made from barley and purified water.

  • Lonkero: A refreshing Finnish cocktail made with grapefruit soda and gin.

Where to Stay in Kangasala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kangasala offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from hotels and hostels to guesthouses and Airbnb rentals. Here are some options for each category:

Hotels:

  • Hotel Petäys: A 3-star hotel located on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi.

  • Hotel Waltikka: A modern hotel located in the center of Kangasala.

  • Scandic Tampere Koskipuisto: A stylish hotel located just a short drive from Kangasala.

Hostels:

  • Hostel Kangasala: This charming hostel is located in the heart of Kangasala and offers affordable accommodation for budget travelers.

  • Dream Hostel Tampere: This modern hostel is located just a short drive from Kangasala and offers a range of private and shared rooms.

Guesthouses:

  • Guesthouse Aurora: This family-run guesthouse is located in the picturesque countryside just outside Kangasala and offers comfortable accommodation in a peaceful setting.

  • Villa Rauhala: This lovely guesthouse is located in the heart of Kangasala and offers spacious rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Kangasala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kangasala offers plenty of unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Here are some ideas:

  • Handcrafted pottery: Kangasala is known for its beautiful handcrafted pottery, which makes a unique and special souvenir.

  • Finnish candy: Finnish candy is known for its unique flavors and makes a great gift for anyone with a sweet tooth.

  • Reindeer hides: Reindeer hides are a popular souvenir in Finland and can be found in many local shops in Kangasala.

Local Culture and Customs of Kangasala

Kangasala has a rich and vibrant cultural heritage, which is reflected in its many museums and historical sites. The local culture places a strong emphasis on nature and the environment, with many residents enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

Best Time to Visit Kangasala

The best time to visit Kangasala depends largely on what you want to do. The summer months (June-August) are the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, the winter months (December-February) offer unique opportunities for winter sports and activities, such as skiing and snowmobiling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kangasala

To make the most of your trip to Kangasala, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Take advantage of the stunning natural beauty and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.

  • Explore the town’s many museums and historical sites to learn more about Kangasala’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Try some of the local cuisine, including traditional Finnish dishes and local beverages.

Don’t:

  • Overlook the town center, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities.

  • Leave trash or litter in natural areas or around town.

  • Ignore local customs and traditions, such as taking off your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Safety and Health

Kangasala is a very safe and healthy place to visit, with low crime rates and excellent healthcare facilities. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Kangasala

  • Watch out for local wildlife and observe all safety precautions when hiking or venturing into the wilderness.

  • Take care when driving, especially in bad weather conditions.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure at all times.

Health in Kangasala

  • Kangasala has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and medical clinics.

  • The tap water in Kangasala is safe to drink.

  • Make sure you have adequate travel insurance before you travel, especially if you plan on participating in outdoor activities.

Getting to Kangasala: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options for getting to Kangasala, including air, bus, and car. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Kangasala

The nearest airport to Kangasala is Tampere-Pirkkala Airport, which is located approximately 30 minutes’ drive from the town center.

Bus Stations Near Kangasala

Kangasala is well-serviced by a range of local and regional bus services. The local buses are operated by Nysse, while the regional buses are operated by Matkahuolto or Onnibus, depending on the route.

Other Options

If you’re traveling by car, Kangasala is easily accessible via the E12/E75 and the E63 highways.

How to Get Around in Kangasala

Kangasala is a small town and is easily accessible on foot or by bike. There is also a local bus service operated by Nysse, which connects the town center with surrounding areas and nearby cities.

Where to Go Next from Kangasala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kangasala is located in the heart of Finnish Lakeland, which offers plenty of opportunities for further exploration. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Tampere: Only a short drive from Kangasala, Tampere is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a wide range of attractions, from museums and art galleries to shops and restaurants.

  • Hauho: This small village is located on the shores of Lake Rautavesi and is known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly locals.

  • Pälkäne: This picturesque town is located just a short drive from Kangasala and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

Conclusion

Kangasala is a charming Finnish town that offers visitors the chance to experience the best of Finnish culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking through the stunning Kuhmoinen Ridge, exploring local museums and historical sites, or simply relaxing in one of the town’s many parks, Kangasala has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Kangasala, Finland.

Lake Roine from the Vehoniemenharju observation tower Lake Roine from the Vehoniemenharju observation tower