Visit Lauttasaari: the Helsinki happy place

Island like a box of chocolates

Visiting Lauttasaari is full of surprises, architectural treats and it’s a wonderful place to get lost on the criss-crossed streets of the neighbourhood. The long history is carved in the walls and corners of the architecture, spanning over three centuries. That’s 300 years’ worth of building to see, which is a lot of years, so better make space in your calendar for the adventure through the island!

Just to mention a few must-see locations: Lauttasaari Manor (they do tours!), Red Villa, the church of Lauttasaari, beautiful 70s private houses scattered all over the island, and adorable colonial garden ‘mökkis’ (remember to keep a respectful distance, as the cottages are inhabited). While you’re exploring, you might even spot fortress structures all the way from the Crimean War.

Scenery, shore, and all kinds of sports

We’ll never get tired of talking about the beauty of the sea and nature while visiting Lauttasaari (sorry, not sorry). When exploring the island, take a moment to stroll along the shoreline and enjoy the views. The bravest might even wade through the water during low tide to pay a visit to Sisä-Hattu – a rocky little island by Lauttasaari that is the locals’ favourite hidden picnic and lounging spot during summer.

If you’re more of a trees and bees kind of person (we don’t judge, seaweed isn’t for everyone), head to the northern part of the neighbourhood to get a proper dose of the Finnish greenery on the picturesque running trails. Rock-enthusiasts should head to the beach, though – there’s a very impressive giant’s kettle right at the shore cliffs.
 
After getting your share of all the views, you might want to get your body and mind moving. For a small island, the place is packed with action and things to do for all sorts of weather. For anyone itching to get their blood flowing, the neighbourhood has Lauttasaari beach (with beach volleyball and basketball courts), kite surfing, padel courts, gyms, dance and yoga studios, and skateparks.

For a bit more laid-back excitement, the area offers all sorts of events you can participate in, with Lauttasaaripäivä in August being the crowd favourite amongst the islanders. And if you want to widen your horizons (literally, as in walking over the bridge), you’ll find Salmisaari Sports Centre, the Crusell Bridge, and Kaapelitehdas.

Delicious detour to local cuisine

While you might not want to take a break from exploring the island – it’s quite addictive, isn’t it – you know what they say about full stomachs and happy hearts! Visiting Lauttasaari, you’ll notice the island has a unique restaurant scene, offering some of the best dishes in the city. Supported by the local foodies, the warm atmosphere is sure to welcome everyone to join the world of incredible flavours. Get your hands on the cheesy goodies from Pizzeria Luca (not to brag, but they’ve been named the best pizzeria in Finland) or taste that Lauttasaari goodness at Solmu Brewery.

If you’re only a bit peckish, we recommend a fresh korvapuusti and a piping hot cup of freshly brewed coffee in the legendary Mutteri Kahvila. Lauttasaari also has not one, but three locations that make handmade ice cream and gelato! Norge, Le Jardin, and Paseo are the places to be for that creamy freezing goodness.

Small place, big opportunities

As you’ve probably picked up by now, Lauttasaari is an incredibly versatile neighbourhood. Just pointing that out. In fact, the place is so full of possibilities for people of all ages that it’s become one of Helsinki’s most desired areas to live in. Multiple kindergartens and schools that cover all grades from elementary to the upper secondary school are a given – there’s even a sports class for secondary school students backed by Top Sports Academy Urhea and the Finnish Olympic Committee!
 
No kids, or just not convinced? Lauttasaari has fantastic spaces for all sorts of digital nomads, entrepreneurs, remote workers, business owners… You name it. Whatever space you need, you’ll find it here. Check out VillageWorks or brave the bridge to WE Land Ruoholahti – the climate-friendly functionality and experience are sure to make you enjoy your stay.

If you’re more into funding things, you should know that constant growth and business mindset are simply a part of life in this community. Lauttasaari serves as the home for businesses from various fields, a multitude of design showrooms side by side with companies like Solar Films (a production company) and ReOrbit (space technology – yes, really). Easily accessed by the metro and bus lines, a direct connection to the city centre and Helsinki Central Station, and an under 30-minute drive to the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, it can’t get much more convenient than Lauttasaari.

Final thoughts: why not visit Lauttasaari and put the hype to the test

Lauttasaari undeniably offers some of the sweetest parts of Helsinki – the northern innovation centre – in a neat, maritime neighbourhood -shaped package. Just a stone’s throw from the centre of the city, Lauttasaari is that one place that truly embodies both lively and laid-back. Love of the community can be felt in all the cracks, nooks, and street corners of the neighbourhood, and the sea breeze felt across the island carries the growth and innovation.

It’s easy to cherish a place that offers something special for everyone and where everyone belongs – that’s why we think Lauttasaari is more than deserving of its nickname, ‘the Island of Happy’. But does it live up to its hype? Come and see for yourself, visit Lauttasaari Helsinki! Who knows, maybe it will become your new happy place as well.