Mariehamn

Mariehamn, the capital of the Åland Islands, is a calm seaside town with a strong connection to the sea. Located between Finland and Sweden, this Swedish-speaking city has a distinct cultural identity. In Mariehamn, you'll find the Åland Maritime Museum, the four-masted ship Pommern, and the tree-lined Esplanade. The town's compact size and coastal setting make it easy to start your journey through the Åland archipelago.

Getting to Mariehamn

You can reach Mariehamn by air or sea. The town has a domestic airport with regular flights from Turku and Stockholm, mainly used by business travelers. For a more scenic journey, take a ferry from Finland (Helsinki or Turku) or Sweden (Stockholm). The ferry ride takes about 5-8 hours, depending on your departure point. These ferries often make brief stops in Mariehamn or Långnäs for tax reasons, allowing you to disembark and explore the town.

Exploring the Maritime History

Mariehamn's connection to the sea is at the heart of its identity. At the Åland Maritime Museum, you'll learn about the island's seafaring past through artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Åland's sailing ships and maritime trade. Next to the museum stands the Pommern, a four-masted barque that's now a museum ship. Built in 1903, the Pommern is one of the last surviving windjammers. On board, you can experience life at sea during the early 20th century.

Strolling Through Town

Walk along the Esplanade, a wide avenue lined with lime trees that stretches from the western harbor to the eastern shore. This central boulevard is ideal for a leisurely stroll and showcases some of Mariehamn's 19th-century wooden buildings. As you walk, you'll pass by St. Göran's church, built in 1927 and designed by Finnish architect Lars Sonck. The town hall, another Sonck creation, stands out with its distinctive style, combining elements of Nordic classicism and functionalism.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Åland's cuisine reflects its location by the sea, with fresh fish playing a prominent role. Try regional dishes like butter-fried perch with new potatoes or sample the Åland pancake, a sweet dessert made with semolina and served with plum jam and whipped cream. For a fine dining experience, visit ÅSS Paviljongen, where you can taste archipelago cuisine with a modern twist. If you're looking for a cozy café, head to Bagarstugan, housed in a charming old red wooden building.

Activities Around Town

Despite its small size, Mariehamn has several ways to spend your time. You can rent a bicycle to explore the town and its surroundings, or take a short walk to the Mariehamn Wetland for birdwatching and nature trails. In summer, head to Lilla Holmen, a small island connected to the mainland by a bridge, where you'll find a beach for swimming and sunbathing. For a unique experience, try disc golf at one of the courses in and around the city center.

Shopping and Crafts

Torggatan is Mariehamn's main shopping street, where you'll find a variety of local shops and boutiques. The northern part of the street is particularly active, with stores selling everything from clothing to local handicrafts. For a more traditional shopping experience, visit the Maritime Quarter (Sjökvarteret) on the east side of the marina. Here, you can watch artisans at work and purchase locally made crafts and souvenirs.

Day Trips from Mariehamn

Mariehamn serves as a convenient base for exploring the Åland archipelago. Take a cycling trip to Kastelholm Castle, a medieval fortress about 20 kilometers north of the city. Along the way, stop at Uffe på berget café and viewpoint for wide views of the surrounding landscape. Another interesting destination is Kobba Klintar, a former pilot station island that provides insight into Åland's maritime history and views of the archipelago.