Kustavi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kustavi, Finland with this helpful guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Kustavi

Whether you are looking to explore Finland’s rich cultural heritage, immerse yourself in natural landscapes, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Kustavi is the perfect destination. This small coastal town, located in the region of Finland Proper, offers a wealth of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Kustavi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the best ways to experience Kustavi’s cultural heritage is to visit one of its many museums. The Kustavi Museum is a great place to start, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history and traditions. Other top museums in the area include:

  • Archipelago Museum
  • Maritime Museum
  • Katanpää Fort Museum

Visitors interested in historical sites can explore the ruins of the Kustaanmiekanmäki ancient settlement, dating back to the Bronze Age.

Natural Attractions of Kustavi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kustavi boasts some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Finland, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the archipelago by sea kayak, go fishing or sailing, or take a leisurely hike through the lush forests.

Some of the top natural attractions in Kustavi include:

  • Vartsala Nature Trail
  • Ekenäs Archipelago National Park
  • Hitis Archipelago Trail
  • Pärnäinen Birdwatching Tower

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kustavi

Kustavi is known for its gorgeous trails that weave through lush woods, meadows, and beaches. Exploring Kustavi on a bike is one of the best ways to experience the beautiful landscapes. Some of the best hiking and biking routes are:

  • Kustavi Coastal Route
  • Ekenäs Archipelago Trail
  • Pallas-Ylläs National Park

Best Things to Do in Kustavi: Activities and Tours

Apart from natural and cultural attractions, Kustavi offers a variety of activities and tours to make your stay here eventful and fun, such as:

  • Kustavi Market and Event Place
  • Archipelago Cruises
  • Finnish Sauna Experience

Week-Long Itinerary for Kustavi

Day 1: Visit Kustavi Museum, Katanpää Fort Museum, and the Old Church

Day 2: Take a sea kayak tour around the archipelago or hike through the Vartsala Nature Trail

Day 3: Visit Ekenäs Archipelago National Park, go fishing, or sailing

Day 4: Explore Kustavi Coastal Route, Pärnäinen Birdwatching Tower

Day 5: Finnish Sauna Experience

Day 6: Hitis Archipelago Trail, Pallas-Ylläs National Park

Day 7: Enjoy the Kustavi Market and Event place

Food and Drink Scene of Kustavi

Must-Try Dishes

Kustavi offers some of the best traditional Finnish cuisine with a unique twist. Some of the must-try dishes in Kustavi are:

  • Smoked Baltic herring - a local specialty
  • Cranberry porridge with cream - a traditional Finnish dessert
  • Karjalanpaisti - a slow-cooked meat stew with vegetables

Local Beverages

Finland is known for its excellent craft beer and Kustavi is no exception. In addition, visitors can try local specialties as:

  • Sahti - a traditional Finnish beer made with juniper berries
  • Salmiakki liquor - a strong drink made with salty liquorice

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

Kustavi offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the most popular choices include:

  • Kustavi Strand: A modern hotel with stunning views of the archipelago
  • Guesthouse Vanha Laivaranta: A cozy guesthouse with a seaside sauna
  • Iloranta Holiday Cottage: A beautiful lakeside cottage with a private beach

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

One of the best ways to remember your trip to Kustavi is to bring back some authentic Finnish souvenirs. Visitors can choose from a variety of local products, including:

  • Handcrafted textiles
  • Traditional Finnish sweets
  • Fresh fish, smoked salmon

Local Culture and Customs of Kustavi

Finns are known for their love of nature, silence, and calm. Respect for nature is very important, and visitors are expected to follow the Leave No Trace principles.

Best Time to Visit Kustavi

The best time to visit Kustavi is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the natural beauty of the archipelago is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kustavi

Do:

  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or cottage
  • Respect the environment and nature
  • Try the traditional Finnish sauna experience

Don’t:

  • Forget to recycle
  • Make a lot of noise in public areas
  • Underestimate the power of Finnish vodka

Safety and Health

Safety in Kustavi

Kustavi is a very safe town and visitors are unlikely to face any serious safety concerns. However, as with any destination, visitors should still take basic precautions such as securing their valuables and using common sense when out and about.

Health in Kustavi

Finland is known for having an excellent healthcare system, and visitors to Kustavi can enjoy high-quality medical care if needed.

Getting to Kustavi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kustavi is located in the region of Finland Proper, in the west coast of Finland. Visitors can reach Kustavi by air, bus, and ferry.

Airports Near Kustavi

The nearest international airport to Kustavi is Turku Airport, located approximately 60 km away.

Bus Stations Near Kustavi

There are several bus stations providing services to Kustavi such as:

  • Turku Bus Station
  • Helsinki Kamppi Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also take a ferry from several ports in Finland, including:

  • Helsinki South Harbor
  • Turku Harbor

How to Get Around in Kustavi

Visitors can explore the town center and nearby attractions on foot or by bike. For longer distances and exploring the archipelago, car rental is recommended. Taxis can also be hired, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Kustavi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After your visit to Kustavi, consider exploring other parts of Finland’s west coast, such as:

  • Pori - a charming coastal town with beautiful sand dunes
  • Rauma - famous for its well-preserved wooden houses and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Conclusion

Kustavi is a hidden gem of Finland, offering travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you are interested in history, food, or nature, you will find plenty to explore and enjoy in this charming coastal town. Plan your visit today and discover all that Kustavi has to offer!

The 18th century church of Kustavi The 18th century church of Kustavi Viggen from Brändö arriving in Vuosnainen Viggen from Brändö arriving in Vuosnainen Terrain by Jeremiaan luolat Terrain by Jeremiaan luolat Rocky shores Rocky shores The parish village in winter The parish village in winter