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Outdoor destinations
A coastal landscape with bright yellow flowers in the foreground. There are rocky outcrops and green trees further back, leading to a calm blue sea under a clear sky. The horizon shows faint land or ships in the distance.

Vallisaari Island is a diverse destination for people who enjoy nature and those with an interest in history. Although Vallisaari is just a short boat ride from Helsinki Market Square, this island that was opened to the public in 2016 is still quite an unfamiliar destination even for Helsinki residents. It’s easy to get to Vallisaari on a water bus that operates between the Market Square and the island. You can spend a few hours or a whole summer day enjoying the services and nature on the island. The excursion harbour serves people arriving with their own boats.

  • The most diverse nature in Helsinki archipelago
  • A thousand butterfly species, over four hundred plant species and five protected bat species
  • Well-preserved coastal defence history
  • The culturally and historically important Alexander Battery
  • Stone causeway connecting Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari islands
  • 20 minutes by water bus from the Market Square

Activities and trails

The path goes towards a stone-walled wall. There is lush natural vegetation on both sides of the path. A large deciduous tree and blue sky can be seen in the background.

Natural features of Vallisaari

Vallisaari is the most diverse nature destination in the metropolitan area archipelago. The closed islands have developed into a wild natural state.

Nature at the site
An old red brick apartment building. The building has many windows and three exterior doors. The building looks abandoned. There are no leaves on the trees around, it is autumn.

History of Vallisaari

Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari, embraced by the sea, have served as the home and workplace of hundreds of people and as the place of military service for thousands of soldiers.

History of the destination

Visitor's checklist

  • Camping in the area is prohibited
  • Staying overnight in the area is prohibited
  • Overnight at the cruise port is allowedExcursion harbour subject to a charge.
  • Making fire is forbidden
  • Remember to bring a trash bagBring a trash bag and take the trash with you or to the recycling point.
  • Always keep pets on a leashAlso remember a dog waste bag and clean up after your dog.
Instructions and rules