Finland

Mariehamn - A treasure chest of charm and nature

Welcome to Mariehamn, a gem in the Åland archipelago where small-town charm meets a playful atmosphere. This charming city is a place where history and modern lifestyle intertwine with a unique humorous twist, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

When you stroll through Mariehamn's streets, you quickly begin to understand the city's unique character. Every corner and every square seems to have its own story, often served with a touch of humor. The market days in the town square are a perfect example of this, where local vendors not only offer their wares but also share stories and jokes that make the whole square laugh.

One of the most iconic stops in Mariehamn is the Maritime Museum, which not only celebrates Åland's rich maritime history but also infuses it with a dose of playfulness. Here you can almost hear the voices of the old sailors, telling exaggerated stories about their adventures at sea.

A stone's throw from the museum is Lilla Holmen, an island that offers both natural beauty and entertainment for the younger visitors. With its pirate ship and playful atmosphere, it is a place where children's laughter mingles with birdsong, creating a unique experience for the whole family.

Mariehamn's café culture is another part of the city's charm. Here you can find everything from traditional patisseries to modern coffee bars, where baristas often tell a funny story or two while preparing your coffee. Each café has its own personality and becomes a perfect place to enjoy a quiet moment or a friendly chat with the locals.

The city is also home to the Pommern, the proud old sailing ship that now serves as a museum. The Pomeranian is not only a reminder of the city's maritime history, but also feels like it has its own story to tell – one of adventure, storms and maybe even a bit of seamanship.

When evening falls, Mariehamn turns into a place of cozy gathering points. Starry nights illuminate the town and its pubs and restaurants, where locals are happy to share stories and laughs. It is here, under the calm night sky, that Mariehamn's true essence emerges – a place where small-town charm meets warm welcome.

Mariehamn is so much more than just a destination; it is an experience of joy and community. The city welcomes visitors with open arms, offering a unique mix of culture, history and a constant presence of humor. So come and explore Mariehamn, where every day is an adventure and every street has a story to tell, often with a laugh.

Unique nature and archipelago

In Mariehamn and on Åland there is more than just a charming town centre; nature and the archipelago are a central part of the region's soul. The Åland archipelago, with its breathtaking beauty, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nature here is virtually untouched, with crystal clear waters and lush green islands stretching as far as the eye can see.

To explore the Åland archipelago is to experience nature in its purest form. Here you can enjoy quiet boat trips between the islands, walk along the shores or discover secret bathing coves. For the adventurous, the archipelago offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, where you can glide between small islands and skerries, perhaps even being joined by curious seals.

On land, Åland's nature is just as impressive. The island's many hiking trails lead you through forests, over cliffs and to historic sites that tell of the region's rich past. During the summer months, Åland's landscape is filled with flowering meadows and in autumn you can enjoy the island's beautiful color changes.

MyVoy's tips:

Try Åland Kegel: Discover the traditional Åland sport of kegel, a form of bowling that is unique to the region. Visit a local bowling alley and see how many pins you can knock down. It is a fun and social activity suitable for all ages.

Visit a Local Microbrewery: Åland has a growing microbrewery scene. Pay a visit to a local brewery where you can get a tour, learn about the brewing process and of course taste different types of locally produced beer. 

Turku - Finland's oldest city. A city where the beat of history meets the pulse of the future, is a destination that offers a unique mix of old and new. This city, Finland's oldest, is not only a historical gem but also a vibrant modern metropolis that attracts visitors with its versatility and charm.

The city's historic center is like a living history book. Turku Cathedral, dating to the 13th century, is an impressive example of Gothic architecture and an important cultural landmark. Turku Castle, another historical gem, offers a fascinating insight into Finland's medieval past and is today home to a diverse exhibition that tells the castle's exciting history.

Aura å – The lifeblood of the city

Aura å is the pulse of Turku and a perfect place for a relaxing walk or boat trip. Along the banks of the river you will find a rich selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy local food and drink with a view of the calm water. In the summers, the river's edge turns into a lively meeting place where festivals and events take place.

World-class culture

Turku is known for its rich cultural life. Here you will find Finland's oldest theatre, the Turku Swedish Theatre, as well as the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra, which offers high-class musical experiences. The city also hosts a number of festivals, including the annual Turku Music Festival and Turku Film Festival, which attract both locals and tourists.

As a lively university city, Turku is bubbling with youthful energy. The city's universities and colleges contribute to a dynamic and international climate. Student life gives the city a special atmosphere, especially in the city's many bars and cafes.

Food lovers will enjoy Turku. The city offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving everything from traditional Finnish food to international cuisine. Don't miss the local delicacies such as Turku salmon or black bread. The market days are also an excellent opportunity to try local products and discover new tastes.

For art lovers, Turku offers a wide range of galleries and museums. Wäinö Aaltonens Museum and Turku Art Museum are just two examples where you can experience both Finnish and international art. The city is also known for its design, with shops and studios offering unique Finnish design products.

A gateway to the Archipelago

Turku is also the starting point for exploring the Finnish archipelago, the world's largest archipelago area. Here you can experience untouched nature, picturesque villages and unique accommodation options such as cabins and lighthouses.

For those interested in nature, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor life in and around Turku. The city's surroundings offer beautiful nature reserves and parks for hiking, cycling and bird watching. During the winter months, you can also enjoy ice skating and cross-country skiing in the city's vicinity.

A city for all ages with a warm atmosphere

Turku is a city that suits visitors of all ages. For families, there are several attractions such as Moomin World, located on the nearby island of Kailo, which is a magical experience for the younger visitors. The adventure park Flowpark offers exciting challenges for all age groups.

One of Turku's greatest assets is its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors are greeted with a warm welcome, and the city's size makes it easy to navigate and explore all that is on offer. Whether you are looking for a leisurely walk along the river, a cultural experience, or a day in nature, Turku has something to offer.

Despite its ancient history, Turku is a city that is constantly renewing itself. With a mix of historical sights and modern initiatives, there is always something new to discover. The city continues to develop and grow, while maintaining its unique character and charm.

Turku, with its combination of historical sights, cultural diversity, culinary experiences, and natural beauty, is a destination that promises a rich and diverse experience. It is a place where every visit becomes unique, and where every corner of the city has its own fascinating story to tell. Welcome to Turku – a city waiting to be discovered.

MyVoy's tips:

A Tour with Turku's Self-Driving Buses: Turku is one of the first cities in the world to introduce self-driving buses in city traffic. Take a ride on these high-tech marvels for a unique sightseeing experience. It is not only a fun way to see the city, but also an example of Turku's forward thinking in technology.

Ghost walk in Turku Castle: For a different and a bit eerie experience, take part in a ghost walk in Turku Castle. Explore the castle's secret passageways and dark nooks and crannies while listening to exciting and sometimes terrifying stories about the castle's past.

Ride a Sauna Boat: Turku offers unique sauna boat tours where you can enjoy a traditional Finnish sauna while floating along the Aura River. It's a relaxing and fun way to experience Finnish sauna culture, with the option of taking a dip in the river you feel adventurous.

The pearl of the Nordic region

Helsinki, Finland's vibrant capital, is a destination that combines modern design with rich history, unique culture and impressive natural beauty. This dynamic city offers something for all tastes, from historic sights to avant-garde art exhibitions and a vibrant food culture.

A mix of history and modernity

A visit to Helsinki often begins with its impressive architecture. From the neoclassical grandeur of Senate Square to Alvar Aalto's modernist creations, the city's buildings tell a story of a nation that unites tradition and innovation. A visit to the iconic Temple Square church, carved directly out of the mountain, is also a must.

Art, culture & food

Helsinki is known for its thriving cultural life. The Kiasma Art Museum challenges visitors with its contemporary art, while the Ateneum offers classic works by Finnish artists. For music lovers, a visit to the Musikhuset or an opera in the National Opera is an absolute must. The city's food culture is an experience in itself. From traditional Finnish dishes in cozy taverns to innovative dishes in Michelin-starred restaurants, Helsinki's food world is a taste journey worth exploring. Don't forget to visit the bustling market halls, where local delicacies offer an insight into Finnish cuisine.

Design and Shopping

Helsinki is also a paradise for design lovers. The Design District gathers shops, galleries and studios, where you can find everything from Finnish classic design to modern creations. For those interested in shopping, the city is filled with both international brands and local designers.

A friendly and multicultural city

One of Helsinki's greatest strengths is its friendly and multicultural atmosphere. The city is a melting pot of different cultures, which is reflected in its food, music and art. Visitors are welcomed with open arms, and the language barrier is rarely a problem as most speak excellent English. Helsinki is a city that never sleeps, with an event calendar filled to the brim. From the lively Helsinki Festival to the eccentric Night of the Arts, the city offers a plethora of cultural events that reflect its dynamic spirit.

A Gateway to Finland

For those who want to explore more of Finland, Helsinki is the perfect starting point. The city is well connected to the rest of the country, offering easy access to other popular destinations such as the idyllic Finnish archipelago or the tranquil lakes and forests of the interior. Despite its status as a metropolis, Helsinki is surrounded by nature. Enjoy a walk along the sea at Helsinki's beaches or discover the city's many green parks. Take a boat to nearby islands such as Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers both history and lovely hiking trails.

Helsinki combines a relaxed atmosphere with cosmopolitan energy, making the city an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience, culinary adventure, historical discovery or just a place to relax and enjoy nature, Helsinki has something to offer. Plan your trip to this Nordic gem and experience all the amazing things that Helsinki has to offer.

MyVoy's tips:

Finnish Sauna Club: When you are in Finland, don't miss the chance to experience an authentic Finnish sauna. In Helsinki there are several sauna clubs where you can take a sauna in a social environment, including sauna boats and beach saunas. It's a great way to immerse yourself in Finnish culture and relax at the same time.

Art in the Subway? - Helsinki's metro system is not only a means of transport, it is also an art gallery. Take an "art subway tour" and discover impressive murals, sculptures and other works of art scattered throughout the city's various subway stations.

Harakan Island: For an adventure off the beaten track, visit Harakan Island. The island is known for its abandoned buildings and fascinating ruins that offer a unique insight into Helsinki's lesser-known history. It is a perfect destination for urban explorers and photography enthusiasts. 

Långnäs is a small city located in Finland, known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the Baltic Sea, Långnäs boasts picturesque landscapes with a mix of lush forests and serene coastlines. The city is also famous for its vibrant harbor, which serves as a significant maritime hub in the region. Visitors to Långnäs can explore its historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in various outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and sailing. Despite its small size, Långnäs offers a charming and tranquil escape, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.