Lonna Island
A serene island escape near Helsinki, offering a unique sauna, dining, and historical insights just a short ferry ride away.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Lonna Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island escape near Helsinki, offering a unique sauna, dining, and historical insights just a short ferry ride away.
"A raw, natural little island away from the urban fuzz, offering quiet purity with convenient amenities."
Book Sauna in Advance
Popular sauna slots fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the ferry times carefully to plan your island visit. :ferry:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lonna Sauna
Lonna Island
Experience a unique sauna with stunning sea views. A perfect blend of relaxation and nature.
Island Cafe & Restaurant
Lonna Island
Enjoy delicious food and drinks in a peaceful island setting. Great for a relaxed meal.
Historical Demagnetization Museum
Lonna Island
Discover the island's past as a military site. An interesting glimpse into its history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Island Escape: Ferry & Timing
Sauna & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Sauna in Advance
Popular sauna slots fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the ferry times carefully to plan your island visit. :ferry:
Bring a Sweater
It can get windy on the island, even on warm days. :cloud:
Island Prices
Expect slightly higher prices for food and drinks compared to mainland Helsinki. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Sauna in Advance
Popular sauna slots fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Ferry Schedule is Key
Check the ferry times carefully to plan your island visit. :ferry:
Bring a Sweater
It can get windy on the island, even on warm days. :cloud:
Island Prices
Expect slightly higher prices for food and drinks compared to mainland Helsinki. :moneybag:
First-Timer Sauna Tip
Lonna's sauna is great for beginners, offering a relaxed experience. :womanintowel:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Lonna Island to be a peaceful, natural gem offering a unique sauna experience with sea views and a pleasant cafe/restaurant. While some found it lacking in activities, others appreciated its quiet, raw atmosphere and historical significance. The ferry ride is convenient, but prices on the island can be higher than expected.
"Old mine island.
Did not really liked it here. Nothing really to do.
Glad that the next fairy came 25 min after."
P P
"If you want to feel a raw natural little island away from the urban fuzz, this little gem of an island is only 10mins away by ferry.
It is quiet and pure. But also convenient enough to have a cafe a restaurant and a sauna."
dong ding
"I loved the Sauna there. Definitely a unique atmosphere and experience.
It has its price, especially the beer in the Sauna, but hey you see ocean from a sauna."
Hubert Neufeld
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lonna Island is easily accessible by a short ferry ride from Helsinki's Market Square (Kauppatori). The ferry journey takes about 10-15 minutes. JT Line operates the ferry service to Lonna Island. 
Ferry schedules vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official JT Line website or Lonna Island's website for the most up-to-date ferry times.
A day ticket for island hopping, which includes access to Lonna Island, is around 10€. Individual ferry tickets may also be available.
Lonna Island is located between Helsinki's mainland and Suomenlinna, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring the Helsinki archipelago.
No, Lonna Island is a small island offshore and requires a ferry to reach. It is not accessible by foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While access to the island itself is generally free, you will need a ferry ticket to get there. If you plan to use the sauna or dine at the restaurant, separate bookings or payments will apply.
It is highly recommended to book the Lonna sauna in advance, especially during peak season, as slots can fill up quickly. You can usually book through the Lonna Island website.
Lonna Island, including its cafe, restaurant, and sauna, typically operates from Tuesday to Sunday. Specific hours can vary by season, so checking their official website is advised.
The island itself does not have a separate entrance fee beyond the cost of the ferry to reach it.
While walk-ins might be possible for the cafe, it's advisable to book a table for the restaurant, especially for dinner, to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Lonna Island offers a relaxing escape with a popular sauna, a cafe, a restaurant, and a small museum detailing its historical military use. It's ideal for enjoying nature and tranquility. +1
The Lonna sauna is a unique experience, offering a chance to relax and then cool off in the sea. It's known for its beautiful ocean views and is suitable for first-time sauna-goers. +1
Absolutely! Lonna Island is perfect for a short day trip from Helsinki, offering a peaceful retreat just a short ferry ride away.
Expect a raw, natural, and quiet atmosphere. It's a gem away from the urban hustle, offering a pure and serene environment.
While Lonna Island is more geared towards relaxation and adult experiences like the sauna and dining, children can enjoy the natural surroundings and the ferry ride.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Lonna Island features a popular restaurant with a terrace and a cafe, offering a range of food and drinks in a beautiful island setting.
Prices for food and drinks, especially beer, can be on the higher side compared to mainland Helsinki, reflecting the unique island location.
While there are dining facilities, there's no specific mention of designated picnic areas. It's best to utilize the cafe or restaurant for your meals.
The restaurant offers a selection of dishes, often focusing on fresh ingredients, suitable for a pleasant island dining experience.
It's advisable to check the current menu or contact the restaurant directly for specific dietary options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the sea, the island's natural beauty, the unique sauna architecture, and the picturesque views from the restaurant terrace. Sunset shots are particularly beautiful.
Regulations regarding drone usage in sensitive areas like islands and near historical sites should be checked. It's best to be cautious and check local rules before flying a drone.
Golden hour, especially during sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the sea views are always scenic.
While you can capture the exterior and the general ambiance, be mindful of other visitors' privacy when taking photos inside or around the sauna facilities.
The sauna building itself, the cafe/restaurant terrace, and the general coastal views are prime spots for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the sauna is a primary attraction, it might be more suited for adults or older children who are comfortable with the experience. The cafe and restaurant offer a chance for a family meal with a view. It's a good option for a calm, scenic break rather than a day packed with kid-specific activities.
couples
+2The island provides a peaceful setting away from the city's hustle, perfect for quality time together. Consider visiting during sunset for an extra touch of romance. The unique sauna experience is a memorable activity for couples looking for something different.
+1Day-Trippers from Helsinki
+1Plan your visit around the ferry schedule and consider booking the sauna in advance if that's a priority. It's a great way to experience a different side of Helsinki's archipelago without committing to a full day of travel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lonna Island Sauna Experience
+2This sauna is particularly recommended for those new to the sauna culture, as it offers a more gentle heat compared to some traditional Finnish saunas. It's a perfect introduction to the Finnish sauna tradition in a beautiful and accessible setting. Remember to book your slot in advance, as it's a popular attraction.
While the experience is highly praised, some visitors note that the prices for amenities like beer can be higher than on the mainland. However, the unparalleled sea views from the sauna make it a worthwhile indulgence for many.
A Glimpse into Lonna's Past
After its military service, the island was largely abandoned before being opened to the public in 2014. This transformation has turned it into a peaceful retreat, offering a stark contrast to its former utilitarian role. The island's transformation is a testament to its potential as a recreational space.
+1Visitors can explore this history through the demagnetization museum, adding an educational layer to their island visit. It provides context for the island's unique character and its journey from a strategic military outpost to a serene getaway.
Getting to Lonna: Ferry Essentials
+1JT Line is a key operator for these island routes, and their services are essential for planning your trip. It's crucial to check the ferry schedule in advance, as timings can change based on the season and day of the week. A day ticket for island hopping can be a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple islands.
The ferry ride itself offers lovely views of the Helsinki archipelago, setting the tone for a relaxing island experience. Ensure you are aware of the last ferry departure times to avoid any inconvenience when planning your return to the mainland.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit