How to get to Mariehamn

Mariehamn is the charming capital of the Åland Islands, an autonomous Swedish-speaking region within Finland, situated in the heart of the Baltic Sea. This picturesque port city attracts tourists with its serene maritime atmosphere. You can reach this destination by air or by sea, utilizing convenient ferry crossings for buses and cars. A journey to Mariehamn is not merely a transfer from point A to point B, but a true adventure amidst the thousands of islands of the archipelago.

The fastest way to reach the islands is by air. The city is served by Mariehamn Airport (MHQ), located just a few minutes' drive from the city centre. Regular flights connect it with the mainland and neighbouring Sweden, ensuring a reliable link between the archipelago and the outside world.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly to major nearby hubs such as Uppsala, Turku, or Stockholm. From these cities, you can quickly reach ferry terminals or transfer to a local flight to complete your journey to Mariehamn, enjoying views of the Baltic Sea from above.

Since Mariehamn is located on an island, there is no direct railway connection, and the city does not have a train station. However, trains remain a convenient way to reach the port cities from which ferries to the Åland Islands depart.

Tourists often travel by rail to the Finnish city of Turku or the Swedish cities of Stockholm and Uppsala. The railway stations in these cities are well-integrated with the transport system, allowing for an easy transfer to the port to continue the journey by sea.

Traveling by bus to the Åland Islands involves a combined route that includes a ferry crossing, making the journey long but scenic. For example, the trip from the Finnish city of Turku (a distance of about 180 km) will take approximately 10.5 hours, taking the sea portion of the journey into account.

Routes from Sweden are also popular: the journey from Stockholm, covering a distance of about 215 km, lasts roughly 11.3 hours. If you are departing from the city of Uppsala, be prepared to spend about 13.7 hours on the road, enjoying the changing landscapes and the fresh sea breeze during the crossing.

Traveling by car offers the freedom to explore the archipelago at your own pace, though it will require the use of car ferries. The route from Stockholm is considered one of the fastest: covering 157 km can take approximately 3.7 hours if your arrival at the port aligns well with the ferry schedule.

A trip from Uppsala (about 173 km) will take around 4 hours, while the road from the Finnish city of Turku requires about 5.7 hours to cover 157 km. It is recommended to book ferry spaces for your vehicle in advance, especially during the summer season when the flow of tourists to Mariehamn increases significantly.

When planning a visit to Mariehamn, it is worth considering the island nature of this region to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is maritime and changeable. Even in summer, be sure to bring a windproof jacket and modest, comfortable walking shoes, as evenings can be cool and breezy.
2. Transport. The city is compact, and the best way to explore it is to rent a bicycle. It is also convenient to use the network of local ferries for trips around the archipelago.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (€). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carrying some cash for small souvenirs or markets is advisable.
4. Health and Safety. Ticks are active on the islands during summer. It is recommended to use repellents and check yourself after walks in nature; otherwise, the city is extremely safe and secure for families.
5. Communication. Mariehamn is the only officially Swedish-speaking city in Finland. Most locals speak Swedish; English is understood perfectly, whereas Finnish is not spoken by everyone.
6. Local Etiquette. Tranquility and personal space are highly valued here. It is polite to greet bus drivers and shop assistants, and to behave in a calm and courteous manner.
7. What to Avoid. Do not violate the rules of "Everyman's Right" (public right of access): you may walk freely in nature, but you must not litter, make noise, or approach private homes too closely.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to try the local delicacy — the Åland pancake served with stewed plums and whipped cream; it is a hallmark of the local cuisine and a delightful treat.

Following these simple recommendations will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Åland Islands without any hassle.