Visiting Åland Islands is much easier than you might expect. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are incredibly welcoming, and the vibe is wonderfully laid-back. If you’re curious about how to get there, what to do, and what to expect, check out my detailed guide.
So, what surprised me the most during my time on the Åland Islands?
1. Hardened locals
The people here are made of tough stuff. Many of them start swimming in May and keep it up until October—come rain or shine. Cool weather and drafts? Absolutely normal. If you’re used to milder climates, make sure to pack your warm clothes. Life on the Åland Islands certainly builds resilience.
2. Prices on the Åland Islands
Prepare yourself for a bit of sticker shock. Shopping on the Åland Islands is notably pricier than on mainland Finland. Dining out? Same story. This comes down to high transportation costs. But here’s the silver lining: when you return home, prices won’t feel as steep anymore.
3. Friendly people
Though I’m not sure about hitchhiking here, the locals are incredibly kind. I’ve lost count of how many times people pulled over to offer me a lift, especially in the rain. You’d think they were handing out golden tickets. Needless to say, I made a few new friends along the way.
4. Constant wind
The breeze here is relentless—sometimes it feels like the Åland Islands are perpetually being caressed by the wind. During my three-week stay, only half a day passed without it. And while it might seem like a minor detail, I quickly learned that the wind does wonders for mosquito control. When it blows, the little pests seem to vanish. It’s like magic.
5. Free ferries between the Åland Islands
Here’s a gem: boat rides between the Åland Islands are free for everyone. Locals and tourists alike hop on and off ferries without needing to show documents or pay a fare. You could travel from the main island to the farthest one—a 2.5-hour journey—without spending a single cent if you’re not bringing a car. It’s a brilliant way to explore the islands for free.
6. Life on the sea
Living on the Åland Islands means constantly being on the move between islands. Whether it’s for a doctor’s visit, to pick up groceries, or to visit friends, hopping between islands is part of daily life. Every house has a few boats, and ferries run several times a day. During my stay, I’d often hop over to a neighboring island just for lunch. Life on the Åland Islands is truly tied to the sea.
7. Red houses
Almost every house here is painted red. It’s so common, in fact, that when someone mentions a “red house,” you’d better ask for more details. Not all red houses are the same, and they each have a story to tell.
8. Snakes on the Åland Islands
Yes, there are snakes—vipers and grass snakes to be precise. But the locals take it all in stride, strolling around in sandals like it’s nothing. The advice? Make loud footsteps to warn them off. Surprisingly, the real danger here is ticks—not snakes.
9. Peace
If you’re craving peace and quiet, the Åland Islands are your haven. It’s easy to find solitude, and nature hums in the background. There’s a genuine respect for personal space, and you won’t hear any blaring music. Though, I’ve heard it’s not entirely unheard of. You’ll likely spend your time in quiet contemplation, whether you like it or not.
10. Postage stamps
For postcard lovers, the Åland Islands are a dream. The local post office offers an impressive selection of stamps featuring sailing ships, boathouses, mushrooms, and even fairy-tale themes. It’s like a mini art collection that’s perfect for sending a little piece of the Åland Islands to loved ones.
The Åland Islands aren’t just a pretty escape—they’re about red houses, fresh perch straight from the sea, and a quiet kind of pride that you feel in the air. On some islands, there’s no shop to pop into, so you learn to rely on what you have and trust the land. It’s a place where people take care of their own and carry a deep connection to the islands.
