Located on Finland's southernmost tip, this coastal town comes alive in summer with its sandy beaches, seaside cafes, and active harbor. Ferries connect visitors to nearby islands.
Hanko extends into the Baltic Sea at Finland's southernmost tip, with 130 kilometers of coastline wrapping around its peninsula. Walk past mint-green and pale yellow wooden villas from the 1800s, swim at Plagen Beach where wooden changing cabins line the shore, or take a boat trip to Bengtskär lighthouse where you can climb 252 steps to the top. In summer, the marina fills with sailing boats, and migrating birds stop at the cape throughout the year.
Getting to Hanko
Trains run from Helsinki to Hanko with a connection in Karjaa, while direct buses make the journey from Helsinki's central bus station. Both trips take about two hours. Driving from Helsinki takes 1.5 hours on highway 25. Once in Hanko, you can walk between most sights within 15-20 minutes or rent bikes from the tourist office.
Beaches and Swimming
The western shore of Hanko has several sandy beaches, with Plagen Beach being the most popular. The water stays shallow for about 50 meters from the shore, reaching only knee-depth, making it safe for children. Blue and white wooden changing cabins from the early 1900s line the beaches, painted in the colors of the Finnish flag.
Marina and Summer Events
Boats dock at Hanko's eastern harbor when sailing between Helsinki and the Archipelago Sea. The annual Hanko Regatta in July brings over 200 sailing boats to compete in races across different categories. During the week-long event, you can watch races from the shore or join evening gatherings at the marina.
Nature and Wildlife
Two bird-watching towers give you views over the wetlands - one in Svanvik and another in Täktom. Spring and autumn bring the most birds, with Arctic waterfowl stopping here during migration. Take a boat tour between May and September to spot grey seals sunbathing on rocks in the outer archipelago, which consists of 90 small islands.
Winter Activities
From October to April, warm up at Regatta Spa's indoor pools while looking out at the winter sea through floor-to-ceiling windows. The spa has three saunas and a gym. Walking paths along the shore let you experience the winter Baltic - bring warm, windproof clothing as the sea winds can be strong.
Historical Buildings
Many buildings from Hanko's 1800s spa resort period still stand. The former Hanko Casino building now serves as a restaurant, with its original wooden architecture intact. Along Boulevarden street, you'll see wooden villas in yellow, green, and blue, built as summer houses for Russian nobles. The old bath house on Plagen Beach now contains a small museum about the spa town era.
