We are a family of 4 ( with11 and 13 year olds) and would like to spend a few days checking out the archipelago in August. We will not have a car. What would be a good recommended approach?
Posted by
Uppsala, Sweden
6968 posts
Take the ferry to Mariehamn and start there.
Posted by
OP
California
150 posts
What would be a fun 3-5 day itinerary among the islands? I'm having trouble sorting through all the options, and figuring out how to order the visits. Coming from and returning to Helsinki. Thank you!
Posted by
Denver, CO, USA
1600 posts
We stopped in the Aland islands a long time ago (15+ years) - however, we were traveling from Stockholm to Helsinki. Took the ferry from Stockholm to Aland. Spent a day and night there, then took the ferry to Turku - reason being the ferry ride was shorter than sailing all the way to Helsinki. Explored Turku for a day and then took the train to Helsinki (seems like this was a 2 hr ride).
The main thing for you to do is to figure out the ferry schedule and what all the routes are and the durations - and then piece together an itinerary. And don't limit yourselves to just 1 ferry line.
Posted by
1 posts
Åland is very nice and there is not much to stress about. It is a hidden gem. Ships goes daily to and from Åland and Mariehamn.
Åland Islands is a family friendly destination. If you arrive by car or rent a car there is a lovely Towervilla to stay at that we have been at: www.harnasstugor.com
Posted by
1 posts
The best way to explore the archipelago in August without a car is to take a boat tour. There are many boat tour companies in the archipelago that can take you to some of the most beautiful and remote islands. Depending on your budget, you can choose from a wide range of boat tours ranging from day trips to longer excursions. These tours usually include fishing, swimming, sightseeing, and other activities. You can also rent a boat and explore the islands on your own. If you do this, make sure to bring life jackets and other safety equipment.
You can also take the ferry to the islands. Most of the islands are connected by regular ferry services. This is a great way to get around and explore the archipelago without a car. You can also rent bikes or scooters on some of the islands, which can be a fun way to explore. (bbqbuck.com)
Finally, you can stay in one of the many hotels or resorts located on the islands. This is a great way to experience the archipelago in comfort and luxury. Hotels and resorts usually offer a range of activities for families, such as swimming, fishing, and sightseeing.
Posted by
Washington DC
28050 posts
Turku is worth a visit, if it works for you to take a train there from Helsinki, and then a ferry. I'm not sure about the various transportation options between mainland Finland and the Aland Islands since I traveled to Turku by ferry from Stockholm.