Sustainable tourism

Suomenlinna combines large visitor numbers with cultural values that require conservation measures, the need among the Helsinki region’s population to have local recreational sites, and the day-to-day life of local residents. Sustainable tourism methods must be leveraged to ensure the site’s cultural, social, ecological and economical prosperity.

Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular visitor attractions in Finland. The growth of tourism in Helsinki, Finland and abroad can also be seen in Suomenlinna. The Governing Body of Suomenlinna is an active partner in networks where tourism is being defined and developed both in the nearby areas in Helsinki and on the national and international level.

During the past 20 years, the number of visitors to Suomenlinna has increased from 600,000 to one million. At the same time, the visitor profile has changed. At first, most visitors were Helsinki residents spending a nice summer day at the fortress, but now the majority of them are international visitors.

The sea fortress’s appeal lies in its history, sights and maritime environment. Suomenlinna combines large visitor numbers with cultural values that require conservation measures, the need among the Helsinki region’s population to have local recreational sites, and the day-to-day life of local residents. Sustainable tourism methods must be leveraged to ensure the site’s cultural, social, ecological and economical prosperity.

Suomenlinna’s evolution into a tourist attraction

The fortress was already mentioned in several travel guides by 19th century.

Visitors from around the world

Visitors to Suomenlinna come from all corners of the world.

Services open throughout the year

Suomenlinna has some 30 tourism service providers catering to visitors.

Kuvassa näkyy kustaanmiekan ammusvarastot, joita ympäröi keltaiset ukonpalkokasvustot. Taustalla näkyy meri

The principles of sustainable tourism

The Fortress of Suomenlinna strives to actively develop sustainable tourism, both at home and through efforts to help develop tourism at other World Heritage Sites in Finland and internationally. Together with other World Heritage Sites and national parks in Finland, Suomenlinna is committed to the principles of sustainable tourism.