This coastal town near Turku has a 15th-century monastery, Finland's oldest spa, and the Moominworld theme park on its own island. Summer homes dot its shores.
Naantali lies 14 kilometers from Turku on Finland's southwestern coast. The town's wooden houses from the 1700s line narrow streets leading to a medieval stone church. Children can meet their favorite characters at Moomin World on Kailo island, while adults might spot Finland's president at Kultaranta, the summer residence. In summer, visitors gather for the Naantali Music Festival and watch as a local celebrity gets thrown into the sea during the traditional Sleepyhead Day celebration.
Walking Through the Old Town
The narrow streets of Naantali's Old Town wind past wooden houses dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. Each building carries its own name and history - many now house art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. The stone church from the 1400s sits atop a hill in the center, with a viewing platform nearby where you can see the archipelago waters and islands. A waterfront walking path takes you to the Kuparivuori cliffs, a good spot to watch boats in the harbor.
Moomin World and Family Activities
On Kailo island, children can walk through the five-story blue Moomin House and meet characters from Tove Jansson's books throughout the park. At Adventure Island Väski, kids practice archery at the Hunter's Camp or try gold panning at the Hermit's Hut. Regular boat services connect both islands to the old town harbor.
Summer Events and Traditions
Classical music echoes through the Convent Church and other venues during the Naantali Music Festival each June. The town's unique Sleepyhead Day tradition continues every July 27, when locals gather at 8 am to watch a Finnish celebrity get thrown into the sea from the town port. These events draw crowds to Naantali during the summer season.
Maritime Experiences
Take a two-hour archipelago cruise on the steamship SS Ukkopekka between Naantali and Turku. The kitchen serves local fish dishes while you pass rocky islands and summer cottages. The harbor area buzzes with activity - local restaurants and cafes line the waterfront, and during summer the marina fills with fishing boats and private yachts.
Day Trips Around Naantali
The gardens at Kultaranta, where Finland's president spends summers, are open to visitors. Drive 25 minutes to see Louhisaari Manor, built in 1655 and surrounded by an English-style park. The stone church in Rymättylä contains wall paintings from the 1520s, among the last remaining medieval art in Finland.
