Kirkkonummi Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, local culture and customs, where to stay, and how to get around in Kirkkonummi, Finland.


Introduction to Kirkkonummi

Kirkkonummi is a municipality in Uusimaa, located in Southern Finland. Nestled between the Helsinki metropolitan area and the archipelago of the Gulf of Finland, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural scenery and cultural attractions. In this guide, we will explore the best things to do in Kirkkonummi, including outdoor adventures, museums, historical landmarks, and local food and drink.

List of Places to Visit in Kirkkonummi

If you’re planning a trip to Kirkkonummi, here is a list of places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sagalund Museum: This open-air museum showcases the traditional way of life in Southwest Finland from the 18th to the early 20th century.
  • Porkkala Parenthesis Museum: The museum documents the tumultuous history of the Porkkala Parenthesis, a period from 1944 to 1956 when the Soviet Union leased the area from Finland for military purposes.
  • St. Michael’s Church: This medieval stone church, built in the 15th century, is one of the oldest preserved buildings in Kirkkonummi.

Natural Attractions of Kirkkonummi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Porkkala Nature Reserve: This coastal nature reserve offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Gulf of Finland, as well as birdwatching opportunities.
  • Rövaren Nature Reserve: This forested nature reserve has marked hiking trails and is home to many bird species, some of which are rare.
  • Kvarnträsk: A beautiful lake and recreational area with hiking and biking trails, as well as a beach and sauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kirkkonummi

For outdoor enthusiasts, here are some great hiking and biking routes in Kirkkonummi:

  • Upinniemi Coastal Trail: This 14 km trail follows the coast of Upinniemi Peninsula, offering stunning sea views and birdwatching opportunities.
  • Sandfjärden Nature Trail: This 3 km circular trail winds through forests and marshland, with observation towers for birdwatching.
  • Gesterby Frisbeegolf Trail: Kirkkonummi’s only disc golf course, with 21 holes set in a beautiful natural environment.

Best Things to Do in Kirkkonummi: Activities and Tours

  • Archipelago Kayaking: Explore the picturesque archipelago of Kirkkonummi on a guided kayaking tour.
  • Husky Hiking: Take a guided hike through the beautiful Kirkkonummi countryside with a pack of friendly huskies.
  • Sailing Trip: Book a private sailing tour of the Gulf of Finland and enjoy the stunning views of the local archipelago.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kirkkonummi

If you have a week to spare in Kirkkonummi, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit Sagalund Museum and Porkkala Parenthesis Museum
2 Explore Porkkala Nature Reserve and have dinner at the local seafood restaurant
3 Hike the Upinniemi Coastal Trail and have a picnic lunch on the beach
4 Take a guided kayaking tour of the archipelago
5 Visit St. Michael’s Church and Kvarnträsk recreational area
6 Book a sailing trip on the Gulf of Finland
7 Hike the Sandfjärden Nature Trail and have a traditional Finnish sauna experience

Food and Drink Scene of Kirkkonummi

Kirkkonummi has a small but vibrant food and drink scene, with locally sourced ingredients and traditional Finnish dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karjalanpiirakka: A traditional Finnish pastry made from rye flour and filled with rice porridge.
  • Kalakukko: A fish-filled pastry made with rye dough, butter, and salt.
  • Lihapullat: Finnish meatballs made from ground beef, pork, and onions, served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Local Beverages

  • Sahti: A traditional Finnish beer made from malted barley, rye, and juniper berries.
  • Sima: A sweet, low-alcohol Finnish mead made from water, sugar, honey, and lemon.
  • Kossu: A Finnish brand of vodka, often mixed with juice or soda.

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

Kirkkonummi has several accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some recommended places to stay are:

  • Hotel Långvik: A modern hotel with spa facilities, on the coast of the Gulf of Finland.
  • Villa Sundsvedja: A cozy guesthouse in the heart of Kirkkonummi, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Hostel Salmi: A budget-friendly hostel near the beach, offering basic amenities and a communal kitchen.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some ideas:

  • Handmade Finnish crafts: Visit Sagalund Museum’s gift shop for handmade Finnish crafts such as pottery, textiles, and wood carvings.
  • Local food products: Visit Kirkkonummen Ostoskeskus for local food products such as honey, jams, and cured fish.
  • Artisanal beverages: Visit local breweries and distilleries for artisanal beverages such as craft beer and juniper spirit.

Local Culture and Customs of Kirkkonummi

Finland has a distinct culture, with unique customs and traditions that are worth exploring. Some local customs and traditions in Kirkkonummi are:

  • Finnish sauna: Sauna is an important aspect of Finnish culture, and many locals have a sauna at home or visit public saunas.
  • Midsummer celebrations: Midsummer is an important holiday in Finland, celebrated with bonfires and family gatherings.
  • Finnish design: Finnish design is famous for its clean lines and simplicity, and many local artisans create beautiful handmade products.

Best Time to Visit Kirkkonummi

The best time to visit Kirkkonummi depends on your preferences. Summer months (June-August) offer the best weather for outdoor activities and cultural events, while winter months offer a chance to experience traditional Finnish winter sports and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kirkkonummi

Do:

  • Respect Finnish culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities.
  • Try local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Underestimate the power of Finnish mosquitoes during summer months.
  • Forget to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or sauna.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kirkkonummi

Kirkkonummi is a safe destination, with low crime rates and well-maintained infrastructure. As with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

Health in Kirkkonummi

Finland has a high standard of healthcare, with many hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. It’s recommended to purchase travel insurance before visiting Kirkkonummi, in case of unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Kirkkonummi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kirkkonummi

  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport: Located 33 km from Kirkkonummi, this is the largest airport in Finland and serves both domestic and international flights.
  • Turku Airport: Located 108 km from Kirkkonummi, this airport serves mainly domestic flights and some international flights.

Bus Stations Near Kirkkonummi

  • Kirkkonummi Bus Station: Located in the center of Kirkkonummi, this serves local and regional bus routes.
  • Helsinki Bus Station: Located 32 km from Kirkkonummi, this serves both domestic and international bus routes.

Other Options

  • Train: Kirkkonummi is well-connected by train to Helsinki and other major cities in Finland.
  • Car: Renting a car is a good option if you want to explore the countryside around Kirkkonummi.

How to Get Around in Kirkkonummi

Kirkkonummi is a small town that can be easily navigated on foot or by bike. For longer distances, buses and trains are reliable and affordable options.

Where to Go Next from Kirkkonummi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kirkkonummi is located within easy reach of several destinations worth exploring, including:

  • Helsinki: The capital of Finland is only a short train ride away from Kirkkonummi, with plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore.
  • Porvoo: This charming medieval town, located 65 km from Kirkkonummi, offers a glimpse into Finland’s rich history and culture.
  • Turku: Known as the oldest city in Finland, Turku is home to many historical landmarks and cultural attractions, located 140 km from Kirkkonummi.

Conclusion

Kirkkonummi is a hidden gem in Southern Finland, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Kirkkonummi has something for everyone. With this travel guide, we hope you’re better prepared to plan your trip to this stunning destination.

Courtyard of Hvitträsk manor Courtyard of Hvitträsk manor Kirkkonummi railway station Kirkkonummi railway station Natural harbour at Stora Mickelskären east of Porkkala Natural harbour at Stora Mickelskären east of Porkkala Kirkkonummi church Kirkkonummi church