Archipelago Sea Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Archipelago Sea. Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Archipelago Sea

Archipelago Sea, also known as the Turku Archipelago, is a stunning collection of islands and skerries located off the coast of Finland Proper in the West Coast region of Finland. This archipelago is made up of approximately 20,000 islands and islets, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. The natural beauty of the area, combined with its rich cultural history, makes it a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Archipelago Sea

There are many places to visit in the Archipelago Sea. Here are some of the most popular:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova: This museum combines two different exhibitions, one focusing on the history of Turku and the other on contemporary art.

  • Turku Castle: This castle was founded in the 13th century and has played an important role in Finnish history.

  • Kastelholm Castle: This castle was built in the 14th century and has been beautifully restored to its former glory.

Natural Attractions of Archipelago Sea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Archipelago National Park: This national park covers a large portion of the Archipelago Sea and is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna.

  • Vepsa Island: This island is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic walking trails.

  • Nagu: This small town is a popular starting point for boating trips around the archipelago.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Archipelago Sea

The Archipelago Sea is a hiker and biker’s paradise, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. Some of the best include:

  • Kimitoön Nature Trail: This trail takes you through some of the most beautiful natural areas in the region.

  • Archipelago Trail: This 250-kilometer route takes you on a tour of all the major islands in the Archipelago Sea.

Best Things to Do in Archipelago Sea: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of great things to see and do in the Archipelago Sea. Here are just a few:

  • Take a boat tour of the archipelago: This is a great way to see the islands and experience the natural beauty of the area.

  • Go fishing: Fishing is a popular pastime in the Archipelago Sea, with many opportunities to catch everything from salmon to pike.

  • Relax on the beach: With so many islands to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Archipelago Sea

If you’re visiting the Archipelago Sea for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Turku Castle and the surrounding area
2 Boat tour of the Archipelago Sea
3 Visit Archipelago National Park and Vepsa Island
4 Hike the Kimitoön Nature Trail
5 Take a bike ride on the Archipelago Trail
6 Relax on the beach and go fishing
7 Visit Kastelholm Castle and Nagu

Food and Drink Scene of Archipelago Sea

The Archipelago Sea is known for its delicious cuisine and local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Baltic herring: This is a staple dish in the region, and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

  • Grilled salmon: With so much fresh salmon available in the area, it’s no surprise that this is a popular dish.

  • Meat pie: This savory pastry is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Finland has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are plenty of local breweries to choose from.

  • Mead: This honey-based drink is a traditional Finnish beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Where to Stay in Archipelago Sea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a variety of accommodation options in the Archipelago Sea, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotel Stallbacken: This charming hotel is situated in the heart of the Archipelago Sea, making it a great base for exploring the area.

  • Guesthouse Airisto Strand: This guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the sea.

  • Turku Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in central Turku and is a great choice for travelers on a tight budget.

What to Buy in Archipelago Sea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir to bring home from the Archipelago Sea, here are a few ideas:

  • Handcrafted pottery: There are many talented potters in the area who create beautiful pieces inspired by the natural beauty of the archipelago.

  • Locally made jams and preserves: The Archipelago Sea is home to many tart and tangy berries, which are often used to make delicious jams and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Archipelago Sea

The people of the Archipelago Sea are proud of their local traditions and customs. Some of the most important include:

  • Sauna culture: Saunas play an important role in Finnish culture, and many locals have their own private saunas.

  • Midsummer celebrations: Midsummer is a major holiday in Finland, and is celebrated with bonfires and traditional Finnish foods.

Best Time to Visit Archipelago Sea

The best time to visit the Archipelago Sea is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Archipelago Sea

There are a few things you should keep in mind when visiting the Archipelago Sea:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Take care of the environment and leave no trace behind.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the safety rules when hiking or boating in the area.

  • Leave trash or litter behind.

Safety and Health

Safety in Archipelago Sea

The Archipelago Sea is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions, such as:

  • Wearing appropriate clothing and footwear when hiking or boating.

  • Following safety guidelines when using boats or other watercraft.

  • Staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding areas that may be unsafe.

Health in Archipelago Sea

Finland’s healthcare system is among the best in the world, and visitors to the Archipelago Sea can expect to receive high-quality medical care if needed.

Getting to Archipelago Sea: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Archipelago Sea is located about 150 kilometers west of Helsinki, making it easily accessible by plane, train, or car. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Archipelago Sea

  • Turku Airport: This airport is located just a short drive from the Archipelago Sea and offers flights to a variety of destinations.

Bus Stations Near Archipelago Sea

  • Turku Bus Station: This station offers bus connections to many destinations throughout the region.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the Archipelago Sea and the surrounding area.

  • Ferry: There are several ferry services that connect the islands of the Archipelago Sea.

How to Get Around in Archipelago Sea

The best way to get around the Archipelago Sea is by boat. There are plenty of boat rental options available, making it easy to explore the islands and enjoy the stunning views.

Where to Go Next from Archipelago Sea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for other destinations to explore after visiting the Archipelago Sea, here are some nearby options:

  • Helsinki: This vibrant capital city is just a short distance from the Archipelago Sea and offers plenty to see and do.

  • Tampere: This city is located about 200 kilometers north of the Archipelago Sea and is known for its rich history and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

The Archipelago Sea is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or just relaxing on the beach, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in this unique and fascinating part of Finland.

Nötö, traditionally one of the bigger villages in the outer archipelago. Nötö, traditionally one of the bigger villages in the outer archipelago. Entry to Pargas centre. Entry to Pargas centre. View from Kråkskär, islands by the horizon View from Kråkskär, islands by the horizon Harbour of Gullkrona in 2005. Harbour of Gullkrona in 2005. The outer islands have little shelter. Utö. The outer islands have little shelter. Utö. The small island of Tunhamn, with one family staying year round The small island of Tunhamn, with one family staying year round Boskär at sunrise, with surrounding islands and islets – typical seascape Boskär at sunrise, with surrounding islands and islets – typical seascape Ferry from Sweden now in the Åland islands, en route to Turku Ferry from Sweden now in the Åland islands, en route to Turku Large sheltered waters. Yacht by spinnaker in a shipping lane between Houtskär and Korpo. Large sheltered waters. Yacht by spinnaker in a shipping lane between Houtskär and Korpo. The Archipelago road in Nagu in the light summer's night. The Archipelago road in Nagu in the light summer's night. Shiplike ferry by Innamo. Shiplike ferry by Innamo. Café of the road ferry ''Stella''. Breakfast and lunch available. Café of the road ferry ''Stella''. Breakfast and lunch available. Boats moored at Stenskär Boats moored at Stenskär Kayaking in the sound between Nagu and Pargas Kayaking in the sound between Nagu and Pargas Church of Dragsfjärd, 18th century Church of Dragsfjärd, 18th century Swimming elk in the outer archipelago – there are areas with sheltered water quite far out Swimming elk in the outer archipelago – there are areas with sheltered water quite far out Vegetables, salmon and mashed potatoes, served at a festival in Pargas. Vegetables, salmon and mashed potatoes, served at a festival in Pargas. Labbnäs mansion in Dragsfjärd, Kimitoön, now housing a pension Labbnäs mansion in Dragsfjärd, Kimitoön, now housing a pension Attached tick (and thumb for scale). The tick's head is buried in the skin. Attached tick (and thumb for scale). The tick's head is buried in the skin.


    Bengtskär
    Jurmo
    Korpo
    Nagu
    Nötö
    Pargas
    Utö