Have you had enough of crowded shopping malls and holiday stress? Raseborg is the perfect escape. In Raseborg you can experience a warm, old-fashioned Christmas atmosphere in scenic cultural landscapes and prepare for the holidays in our cozy towns and villages. Savor delicious food at inviting restaurants and cafés and find unique gifts in charming boutiques or at traditional Christmas markets. Experience authentic Christmas spirit in Raseborg!
Christmas Markets
Get into holiday spirit at Raseborg’s festive Christmas markets!
More Christmas events can be found in Raseborg’s Event Guide, which is updated continuously.
Christmas in Fiskars Village
Raseborg’s small boutiques are full of high-quality, handcrafted gifts just waiting to be wrapped. In Fiskars Village you’ll find a wide selection of unique presents. More than 20 shops and studios are open year-round, offering everything from local food and drinks to clothing, interior design, art, and jewelry. Fiskars is home to many skilled artisans. See their creativity in action, admire their craftsmanship, and take home beautiful, handmade creations.
At Desico Shop, you’ll find beautifully colored Finnish-made candles — perfect as gifts or to bring home for cozy winter evenings. Stop by Fiskars Shop to admire Finnish design classics, and don’t miss ONOMA Shop, owned and run by local artisans, designers, and artists. And for a sweet treat, visit Billnäs Chocolate Factory, where handmade chocolates come in a wonderful variety of flavors and shapes.
The charming Christmas tree exhibition in Fiskars Village is a must-visit during the holiday season. The trees have been decorated by local artisans and artists, businesses, associations, and the local school – making each tree a unique work of art. The Christmas tree exhibition is open from 22nd November 2025 to 6th January 2026 Thursday-Sunday at 11-18.
The picturesque town center of Ekenäs is just the right size to explore on foot. Here you’ll find Finland’s oldest pedestrian street, Kungsgatan, lined with delightful shops and boutiques. Take a break at one of the many cozy cafés: Carl de Mumma, Wi-Box Café & Café Schjerfbeck, to name a few.
Just a short stroll from the town square lies Ekenäs Old Town, where snow-covered alleys, warm Christmas lights, and historic wooden houses create an irresistibly cozy holiday atmosphere. In December, windows light up with beautiful decorations as residents create their own Advent calendar, with a new window revealed each day leading up to Christmas Eve.
Nestled among the old wooden houses is Café Gamla Stan in a charming little 18th-century cottage. Step inside, warm up by the open fire, and enjoy a cup of mulled wine and some homemade pastries.
Don’t miss the contemporary art museum Chappe, an award-winning modern art space just steps from the town square. This winter’s highlight is an exhibition inspired by John Bauer’s beloved fairy tale series Among Gnomes and Trolls (1882–1918). Chappe offers bus trips from Kiasma in Helsinki to Ekenäs on 29 Nov, 7 Dec, and 13 Dec.
Raseborg truly comes alive during the festive season, with hundreds of events and experiences across its towns and villages. If you’d like to linger a little longer, there are plenty of charming places to stay overnight and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Whether you enjoy outdoors or indoors, the autumn holidays in Raseborg offer something for everyone. The diverse range of nature trails invites you to go and discover the nature and its cones, rocks and trees. Explore the city’s exciting history in the old iron works or Ekenäs old town. Or enjoy a cozy fairy tale in one of the city’s six libraries.
Here are three reasons to visit Raseborg during the autumn holidays.
1. A wide range of activities
As the largest city in Uusimaa province, by area, Raseborg is both diverse and rich in activities. Here you can find for example a wide range of nature trails with the mix of nature, culture and history. Pack a tasty snack and enjoy a break in the middle of nature. In Västerby outdoor recreation area, Kopparö, Gumnäs as well as at some other outdoor destinations, there is the possibility of a barbecue area.
Do not forget geocaching either – Raseborg is an excellent place for this and the search for hiding places makes wandering in nature guaranteed to be more exciting.
On October 18, children aged 5–10 are invited to a Halloween fun and craft session at Ramsholmen (take the first path on the right). From 1–3 PM, they can enjoy nature-based activities and simple crafts. Activities will take place weather permitting.
Curious to see the best view of Ekenäs? Pick up the key to the old water tower from Ekenäs library, climb 164 steps and admire the magical view!
If you enjoy riding a bike, there are several nice bike routes that takes you between villages and historical sites. For the more adventurous, Fiskars Village offers excellent mountain bike routes in beautiful surroundings. The city bikes are also available until the end of the month.
For the smaller ones in the family, there is a wide range of different playgrounds, so go and discover the city’s 36 playgrounds. Among the children’s favourites Fiskars playground and the new adventure course at Pumpviken in Karis. The Lion Park in Ekenäs will be reopening in October after renovations.
When the evening darkness falls and the autumn chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to move your activities indoors. Raseborg has a wide range of activities to choose from – for example, you can visit the public swimming pool, watch a film at one of the two cinemas, try bowling or play padel. Aktia ice hall in Karis also organises public ice skating on Fridays and Saturdays from 3th October!
The public pool in Ekenäs hosts Friday Fun every Friday for children who can swim, from 5 to 7 PM. During these two hours, kids can enjoy the pool’s water toys and other equipment in lanes 4–6. On Thursday, 16 October, there will be games and activities for children aged 6 and older at Ekenäs sports hall, Flemingsgatan 19.
2. Exciting history
Although the city of Raseborg is only 15 years old, its districts and villages hold a much older history than that. In the old iron works in Svartå, Billnäs and Fiskars, you can learn more about the history behind the old iron mills. In order for the old iron mills to once function, coal was produced in the forests of Snappertuna. In the coal village of Malmbacka, you can learn about the history behind coal production. Here you can also relax in a real wood-fired sauna.
In the old town of Ekenäs, you can walk along the narrow streets, admire the old wooden houses and imagine how the life in the city used to be. You get clues from the street names in the old town, which reveals how the townspeople made their living. Here, the streets have existed in the same place since the 16th century. The oldest remaining houses are from the 18th–19th centuries.
Learn more about Raseborg and book a talented guide with you. Choose your field of interest and learn more about the old iron works, the old city of Ekenäs or perhaps one of the beautiful natural areas.
3. Diverse cultural life and locally produced delicacies
Let your imagination and creativity flow during the autumn holidays! Try glassblowing in Fiskars or book a chocolate class in Billnäs. Or immerse yourself in the world of fairy tales in one of the city’s six libraries. The city’s library offers books in at least 28 different languages. For film enthusiasts, there are also two cosy cinemas in Raseborg: Bio Pallas in Karis and Bio Forum in Ekenäs.
Combine history and culture and visit interesting museums. Learn about how the residents of Fiskars lived in the past at Fiskars Museum, or admire the brand-new art exhibition at Chappe Art Museum. Admission to both museums is free for visitors under 18.
Treat yourself with something delicious and fill your stomach with local delicacies! Visit cosy cafes, versatile restaurants and traditional markets during your visit. In Raseborg there is also a dense network of local food lovers, producers and organic farms.
Smaller and larger events are also organized around the city, so take a look at Raseborgs event guide to see what is happening during your visit. The event calendar is continuously updated.
Bonus reasons
• Raseborg is located halfway between Helsinki and Turku, so it is easy to travel to Raseborg by public transport as well as by car.
• Raseborg offers a diverse range of accommodation, from cottages to castles and hotels, so extend your stay and discover all the fun that can be found here.
• Raseborg is a bilingual city, with Swedish as the majority language, so during your visit you can practice both local languages - if you want.
Sometimes it feels good to step away from daily life and head out into nature. In Raseborg, there are plenty of ways to do just that. Take a deep breath, set your own pace, and soak in the beauty of the outdoors. Many of our hiking trails are equipped with grilling areas, making it easy to combine your trip with a break by an open fire. Whether you prefer a spot by the water, at the forest’s edge, or near your car, there’s something here for you.
Before lighting up your fire, please check if there are any current wildfire warnings in the area. Open fires, including campfires and disposable grills are strictly prohibited during wildfire warnings, even at designated grilling areas.
Here are a few examples of our favourite grilling areas in Raseborg:
Kopparö
If you’re longing for the archipelago, Kopparö is a great choice. After a short ride on the Skåldö ferry, you reach a 9 km nature trail with three well-equipped grill areas. At the start of the nature trail, you need to cross a bridge that is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
There are plenty of trees and brushwood on the ground around the barbecue areas that can be used to make a fire. Fires are only permitted in the covered barbecue areas at the rest stops. Each barbecue area has tables and outdoor toilets.
Map of the Kopparö nature trail available here. Address: Fåfängövägen 57, 10600 Raseborg
Västerby
The Västerby Outdoor Recreation Centre offers scenic trails, peaceful forest and several grill spots, some with lake views, others nestled among the trees. The area covers 1,500 hectares and serves as a meeting place for exercisers, skiers and nature lovers. You’ll also find shelters, dry toilets, and a grill hut with dry firewood. Visiting Västerby is perfect if you want to make your outing a little more special.
The Västerby outdoor recreation area is located on Tenalavägen (road 52), approximately 5 kilometres from the centre of Ekenäs.
A map of Västerby Outdoor Recreation Centre can be found here.
Gumnäs
The Gumnäs outdoor trail in Pojo is 3.8 kilometres long and winds through varied natural surroundings to a barbecue hut at the tip of the peninsula. The new barbecue hut, built by Pojo kyrkoby byförening rf in autumn 2024, provides a pleasant spot to take a break and eat your packed lunch. The location is peaceful and atmospheric, next to a small beach with cliffs where you can sit down and look out over the water. Visitors are kindly asked to bring their own firewood for the grilling hut.
More information and map available here. Address: start next to the Pojo dog park by Gamla Åbovägen, 10420 Pojo
Rissla Forest Trail
The 4 km Rissla forest trail starts at the parking area in Fiskars and winds through quiet woods to a rest area where fires are permitted. Along the nature trail, you will also pass several places of historical interest, such as the Rissla dam and the Rissla hydroelectric power plant. The power plant was built in 1899 due to Fiskars Village’s increased need for electricity. It is a good idea to bring your own firewood to the barbecue area.
More info and a map available here. Address: Långdalsvägen 6, 10470 Raseborg
Korpudden
Along the short nature trail at Korpudden, Svartå, there are two barbecue areas: a covered grill and a simpler fire pit. The trail is 1.5 kilometres long and winds between impressive cliffs and the water to Lojosjön. Along the path, you’ll reach a viewpoint that offers a magnificent view over the lake. The beautiful and peaceful scenery has a calming effect, even on the most restless mind. There is also an outdoor toilet available.
Read more about Korpudden here. Address: Hållsnäsvägen 519
Malmbacka
Malmbacka is a cultural-historical private area located in the countryside in Snappertuna. Here you can barbecue under the open sky or in the barbecue hut Thelma. You take care of the barbecue yourself by chopping wood and lighting the fire. Primitive cooking equipment such as pots, pans, etc. can be borrowed from the barbecue hut. Charcoal can be purchased if needed. Advance booking is required and costs 10€ per adult for two hours.
Address: Norrbyvägen 45, 10600 Snappertuna
Lagmans Beach
Lagmans Beach and Camping is located in Snappertuna and is maintained by the city of Raseborg. On warm summer days, you can take a dip in the sea, and on crisp autumn evenings, sit under the barbecue shelter to enjoy your packed lunch and the peaceful scenery. The barbecue shelter is located right next to the parking lot. Visitors need to bring their own firewood or charcoal. There is also an outdoor toilet on the site.
Address: Våruddsvägen 217, 10710 Raseborg
Please remember to respect nature and fellow visitors by keeping areas clean and tidy. Want more tips on hiking destinations in Raseborg? Check them out here.
In the middle of Ekenäs city center in Raseborg you can find Ekecenter, a marble and brick building designed by Alvar Aalto for Ekenäs Savings Bank. Aalto got a free rein to design the building and its interiors. The construction work began in the summer of 1967, and the building was completed already that same fall. The bank moved in and the Piazza restaurant, also designed by Aalto, opened in the second floor of the building. The restaurant is open for lunch and it also offers catering services. Inspired by Aalto, the Piazza Restaurant also offers a special Bank Manager’s menu, which includes a brief introduction to the fascinating history of the building.
Villa Skeppet
Alvar Aalto, picture taken by Göran Schildt.
Villa Skeppet is another building representing the characteristic style of Alvar Aalto. The history of the building originates from the friendship of Alvar Aalto and the author Göran Schildt. Aalto and Schildt met for the first time already while studying, but they did not become close friends until many years later. They were both interested in e.g. Mediterranean culture and made several trips together.
When Göran Schildt lost his home, Villa Itaka in Helsinki, the architect friend offered to design a new home for Schildt. Schildt only had to choose a suitable lot. He chose a quiet place close to nature in his wife Christine’s hometown Ekenäs. Aalto designed Villa Skeppet as a gift for the couple. The planning and construction of the villa was done in 1969-70, the building being the last home Aalto designed. After Aalto’s death in 1976, Göran Schildt wrote a multipart biography of his good friend.
In Villa Skeppet Alvar Aalto carried out many of the distinctive ideas and design solutions that he had developed over the years. Aalto was inspired by Göran Schildt’s great passion for sailing and Mediterranean culture and made this part of Villa Skeppet’s design. The most outstanding feature of the building is the sail-like roof, which connects the two different parts of the building. The living room is characterized by large windows overlooking the beautiful garden and the sea, as well as by an open fireplace sculptured by Aalto himself.
In 2018, Villa Skeppet was donated to the Christine and Göran Schildt Foundation. The foundation opened the villa for the public in December 2020.
Visiting the buildings
The Ekenäs Savings Bank building can be viewed at Stationsvägen 6, 10600 Raseborg. The entrance of Restaurant Piazza is located in the passage between Ystadsgatan and Stationsvägen.
Villa Skeppet can be admired from the outside at Snäcksundsvägen 8, 10600 Raseborg. You can visit the house by booking a guided tour here. Please note that it is not allowed to enter the property.
Alvar Aalto Route
The Alvar Aalto Route connects all sites designed by Alvar Aalto’s architectural office into a fascinating cultural travel route across Europe. Together with the Ekenäs Savings Bank building and Villa Skeppet, Raseborg can proudly be part of the route. In addition to destinations in Finland, you can visit Aalto’s masterpieces in countries such as Estonia, Germany, France, and Italy.
Culture thrives in Raseborg, and the amount of our cultural events rises every year. Here are a few tips on Raseborg’s annual cultural events. Remember to check our events calendar for the most recent and relevant updates on all kinds of cultural events!
Art: crafts, design and exhibitions
Many artists have settled in Raseborg for its inspiring and peaceful environment. Their works and products can be bought in various neighbourhoods and villages, as well as in their own workshops and studios. But be sure to check opening times or call before you visit – the artists sometimes go out in search of inspiration. All sorts of products are available, including fabrics and clothing, jewellery, bags, rugs, scented candles, etc. For more information and contact details, see the crafts -category.
Handicrafts, Finnish design products, quality exhibitions and a wide range of events at Fiskars Village – fiskarsvillage.fi. Fiskars has a number of craft boutiques and is nationally known as a home for craftsmen and artists.
Handicrafts and sewing in Ekenäs e.g. Liia Jewellery and Hennas sewing studio. Tammisaari is home to a number of artists and designers whose products can be bought in Fiskars and in some cases from online shops. On the town’s promenade you can also find, for example, Werner Framing and Gallery, which makes handcrafted picture frames.
Charming retro-style movie theaters Bio Forum in Ekenäs and Bio Pallas in Karis – bioforum.fi, biopallas.com.
Events, festivals and markets
Ekenäs Film Festival in March offers high quality Nordic films at Bio Forum and Culture House Karelia.
The super-popular Antiques Days at both Fiskars and Billnäs ruuks attract thousands of visitors in July. The ruuks are located close to each other, so you can visit both events to make some great finds. See more about Fiskars Antique Days and Billnäs Heritage and Antique Days.
The artist Helene Schjerfbeck’s anniversary will be celebrated with a variety of events: schjerfbecksallskapet.fi/en.
Ekenä’s classical summer concerts have already established a firm place in Raseborg’s summer music programme. The themes of the concerts change every year. The festival’s artistic director Jukka-Pekka Saraste and the Finnish Chamber Orchestra offer an enjoyable musical experience with high-quality concerts.
Open studios throughout Raseborg at Konstrundan: you can visit the artists’ studios and get to know their works and working methods.
The Karis Book Bazaar is an annual literary event. The programme includes pop-up events, poetry, interviews with authors, etc.
Swedish-language literary festival Bokkalaset in Ekenäs: interesting people, interviews, children’s programme, workshops, evenings, etc. The event offers a great language and cultural experience in one package.
The traditionalEkenäs Autumn Market attracts around 25 000 visitors every year, making it one of the largest market events in Finland. The market has been held for over 280 years and offers delicacies, two carnivals, handicrafts and a fun programme for the whole family. The event takes place at the Tammisaari market square, right next to the swimming pool.
For food lovers, ,Raseborg’s second super event, the Slow Food Festival at Fiskars Village, is on the agenda. Launched by the Slowfood Västnyland association, the big event gathers local food lovers for a two-day event every year in early October. The event features a wide range of high-quality local and artisan products and a varied programme.
When the ground is covered in snow, it’s lovely to spend time outdoors in the crisp winter air and get rosy cheeks. Raseborg offers a wide range of winter outdoor activities. Påminne Ski Centre, southern Finland’s highest alpine slope, is certainly many people’s favorite. Påminne offers a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders, as well as a small hill for sledding. You can also rent equipment if you don’t have your own, and take a break at the ski centre’s café with a warm drink or a bite to eat.
Ice skating is a very popular winter activity in Raseborg. It’s possible to skate near most schools, but also at the Ekenäs market field (beside the Flemingsgatan -street, by the public indoor pool), and Karis sports field. More information on ice hockey rinks and ice rinks in Raseborg here.
In Aktia Ishallin Karis you can skate indoors free of charge on Fridays and Saturdays! On Fridays between 15:30-17:00 you can skate witha hockey stick, and on Saturdays between 13:30 and 15:30 you can skate without. NOTE! The time tables might change – have a look at the calendar for more information.
Snow-free activities
No snow? No problem in Raseborg. There’s still plenty to do! Why not take a winter hiking trip? Enjoy the beautiful nature in Ramsholmen forest park in Ekenäs or the unique nature in the Dagmar Park with its famous spring. If you are looking for a longer walk, we recommend Rissla Forest Trail in Fiskars or The Enchanted Forest Trail in Västerby recreation area (both about 5-6 kilometres).
If you prefer to walk in an urban environment, the Old town of Ekenäs and Fiskars Village are excellent destinations. One of Finland’s most valuable manors, Svartå Manor, is an impressive attraction. Visitors are always welcome to stroll and enjoy the beautiful castle park, even if the castle happens to be closed.
Indoor activities
In addition to all the great opportunities for outdoor activities, there are also a lot of different types of indoor activities. Ekenäs indoor swimming pool has a large pool, rehabilitation pool, a hot tub and a children’s pool with a slide and of course, saunas. If you like bowling, you can visit Ekenäs Bowling Alley with its eight courses. You can also play tennis and padelindoors in the center of Ekenäs. There is also an indoor padel court in Karis. The brand-new Keiv Climbing Center in Ekenäs is set to open at the beginning of January 2026!
If you want to do something completely different, we have two lovely cinemas. The latest movies are often shown here. In Karis you will find Bio Pallas and in Ekenäs Bio Forum.
Fiskars Village is also an excellent destination for those who like to stroll around in small shops and admire beautiful exhibitions. In Raseborg there are also several flea markets and second hand shops, where you can find affordable, excellent books, furniture, clothing and other useful things.
For those who like art, there are numerous museums and galleries to experience. Visit for example the KWUM ceramics museumin Fiskars Village, Chappe and Villa Skeppet in Ekenäs that is designed by Alvar Aalto. At Fokushuset in Karis, you can also explore works by various artists at Gallery Promenad and Gallery Centrum. Be sure to check out Raseborg Museum’s new Helene Schjerfbeck exhibition, opening in spring 2026!
We offer a lot of different and interesting locations to host your dream wedding, business event or party in Raseborg. Down below are listed some of our brightest pearls.
Svartå, Raseborg
Svartå Manor is a party place with a capital P. They offer you the chance to celebrate your wedding, birthday or other special day in a beautiful and unique setting. The award-winning Slottskrogen restaurant produces high quality, locally produced delicacies served in the newly restored party pavilion or one of the manor’s other venues. If you like the idea of waking up in the same gorgeous surroundings you can stay overnight at the manor’s hotel or stylishly renovated farmhouses.
Snappertuna, Raseborg
The Calliola Conference and Event Centre is located right on the sea in Snappertuna and offers quality facilities and services. The relaxed, but stylish meeting and banquet rooms are complimented by a sauna, terraces, and homely archipelago-style accommodation in beach villas and apartments. Calliola’s kitchen serves wonderful seasonal local produce.
Fiskars, Raseborg
Fiskars is a unique destination where crafts, arts and design meet nature, history and architecture. Here, at the birthplace of the Fiskars company, you will find experiences for all the senses. Hold a celebration, meeting or conference at the village’s beautiful and varied facilities. Combine your event with, for example, an award-winning round of tastings at local breweries and the distillery, or a glass-blowing workshop.
Åminne, Raseborg
The Åminne Gårdrestaurantat Nordcenter Golf & Country Club serves good food in a stately manor house environment. With pleasant views over the golf course and Pojo bay. Nordcenter is a multi-functional leisure centre where you and your guests can combine a meeting or party with outdoor activities including golf, tennis or frisbee golf. Accommodation in the form of a cozy B&B with a sauna and gym is available. If you like, explore local history and take a trip to nearby Billnäs and Fiskars.
Pojo, Raseborg
There are many more event venues in Raseborg. For one who wants to arrange an event with something extra we recommend you to throw a party at Raseborg Castle. Check out Meetings and parties and familiarize yourself with cozy townhouses, attractive hotels and pleasant seaside resorts.
Party or meeting food
When organizing a party or arranging a team building weekend you definitely want to serve something delicious to eat. Raseborg has a wide supply of restaurants, cafés and catering so there’s something for every taste. You can also shop local food like fresh fish, new potatoes and flavorful vegetables, from one of the different market places in the city.
For drinking you can offer something from the local breweries. Fiskarsin Panimo brew tasty beer and from Ekta Bryggeri you get gutsy cider.
Before the party
Would you like to get your nails painted, your hair in a fancy updo or your eyebrows colored? If you’re about to go on a wedding or other fancy party, Raseborg offers a lot of beauty services for you. If you want to cheer up the atmosphere between meetings you can book a sweaty class at one of the gyms or disc golf in the nature. It’s also possible to try lasertag in Raseborg. You can find all options under activites on our website. Enjoy your unforgettable parties and meetings in Raseborg!
When you arrive in Ekenäs feeling hungry, your may want to head straight to one of the town’s many cozy lunch spots, all just a short walk from the train station. On your way to the town center, you’ll pass Lunch Restaurant Piazza, designed by Alvar Aalto himself, as well as the French-inspired restaurant Ribs and the local favorite, Santa Fé.
After lunch, it’s a good idea to pick up a city map to help you get around more easily. You can find one at the pop-up tourist information point located in Arkaden, just about 100 meters from Ekenäs market square. This way, you will quickly grasp the town’s structure and also find out what’s going on in Ekenäs. Maps can also be downloaded from this page.
From the stairs of the old Town Hall by the market square, you can get a glimpse of the Ekenäs church tower. If you are in town on a market day, that is Wednesday or Saturday, it’s worth stopping by the square to browse the stalls and enjoy the goods offered by local vendors. If you want to have a nice cup of coffee and maybe some local pastries, head to one of the cozy cafes by the market place.
The heart of Ekenäs
Follow Stora Kyrkogatan to the church, which is the heart of the Old Town. The construction of the church began already in the early 1650s, and it took another 20 years to finish the building. Damaged by the fire that raged in the Old Town in 1821, the subsequent reparation of the building transformed the church. Step in and let the children meet Siffe the Church Rat.
Outside, the church is surrounded by charming wooden houses and a small park. The trees offer a perfect hiding place from the sun.
Continue from the church park towards Basatorget. In the corner of this old market square, a pillory reminds of public punishments in the old days.
Seaside idyll
After Basatorget, the next stop is Stallörsparken. There the children play in the town’s most popular playground, the Lion Park. The beach is filled with swimmers and sunbathers and all kinds of events are held.
On summer Tuesdays, the market on Strandallén brings together locals and summer guests. Here visitors can hunt bargains or enjoy delicious crêpes in the Finnish way.
On the other side of the beach, at the end of Strandallén, stands one of the town’s most important landmarks, namely restaurant Knipan. It is said that when the restaurant was planned, the restaurant quota of Ekenäs was already filled and therefore the construction of Knipan wasn’t authorized. However, a loophole was found, and that is why Knipan was built on poles in the sea.
The North Harbour is located on the right side of Strandallén, along which there are several terraces and restaurants where you can enjoy the seaside view or follow the incoming summer guests.
From Stallörsparken, we turn left to walk along Västvallen. Take in the sea scenery, spot swan couples and look into the winding roads of the Old Town.
The charming Old Town
Turn to Linvävaregatan and enter the Old Town. Around Christmas time, you can peek into to the windows of the old wooden houses and see how the homes are filled with Christmas lights and decorations. Further down the street, there is a pink wooden house that is considered to be the oldest house in Ekenäs.
If you are feeling thirsty, step into the charming Café Gamla Stan at Bastugatan. Enjoy tasty cakes and a cup of coffee under the apple trees in the garden or in the cozy 18th century cottage. If you happen to visit around Christmas, the café also hosts a Christmas cottage.
From the café, we continue to Fisktorget, where the fishermen used to gather to sell their catch. You can walk along the pier that starts from the old market square and goes around Södra viken. Make a stop in the park and ring the bell of Helene Schjerbeck’s monument.
From the park Skepparträdgården, you can see the tree tops of the over 35 metre high trees of the Forest Park Ramsholmen. In the shadows of the trees, it’s easy to relax while listening to the birdsong. The plant and animal life on Ramsholmen is so unique that you’re unlikely to find anything quite like it anywhere else in mainland Finland. On your way to Ramsholmen, you can also admire Villa Skeppet, the last private residence designed by Alvar Aalto.
As you make your way back to the town center, the award-winning Chappe Art Museum will catch your eye. Known for its playful and captivating exhibits, Chappe invites you to dive into a world of contemporary and modern art. While you’re there, don’t miss the nearby Gallery Elverket, a vibrant part of the same cultural district.
If you have some time left, check out the boutiques on the oldest pedestrian street in Finland, Kungsgatan. You can also go back to Stallörsparken and enjoy the view while tasting delicious food and refreshing drinks at a idyllic terrace!
Are you travelling by bus or train to Raseborg? Buy a special ticket for your pet and bring it along! Pets are also allowed in Raseborg’s public transport buses, Bosse. It is also possible to bring your pet along on a taxi, as long as you tell the driver in advance.
Nature trails and luscious parks
In Västerby Outdoor Recreation Center both you and your dog will feel good. You can enjoy ascents and downhills, the lush forest and good running trails. In the winter you can enjoy the snow while skiing and your dog can run beside you in the snow. If you have a puppy or children with you, we recommend the Trollskogsrundan, which is a perfect trail for the small ones.
Another nice outdoor recreation are is Pumpviken in Karis where you can walk around a beautiful lake and enjoy the view of green trees reflected in the water. It’s a very popular park and you will surely bump into other dog friends.
If you’re a fan of both the forest and the sea, we suggest visiting Ramsholmen in Ekenäs. In spring your dog can play in the forest while you pick some flowers for a pretty bouquet. You can keep walking over the bridge to Högholmen to experience steep hills and enjoy a sea view at the same time.
Please note that dogs are not allowed to run free in public places, but should be held in leash.
Dog parks and forests in Raseborg
EKTA dog park in Ekenäs city centre. The park is located in the small forest right next to the old cemetery. Ekenäs dog park. Metallduksgatan 1,10600 Raseborg. Pojo dog park. Along the road to Klockarudden in Pojo, 10420 Raseborg. Fiskars dog park. Fiskarsvägen, 228, 10470 Fiskars, Raseborg.
Did you know that there are two popular dog forests in Raseborg? In the dog forests, your furry friend can run freely and safely in a varied terrain. Just four kilometers from the center of Karis, you’ll find a peaceful and tranquil oasis along Vallarsvedjavägen, Raseborg Dog Forest. The area is two hectares, with varied terrain of both forest and rocky ground. The two metre high fence makes it safe for both small and large dogs to play freely. In Hagaberg Dog Forest, a bit outside of Ekenäs, you can also spend quality time with your pup. The area is about one hectare in size and perfect for training without a leash, for example.
Raseborg Dog Forest: Vallarsvedjavägen 150, 10300 Karis. Hagaberg Dog Forest: Hagabergsvägen 2b, 10620 Ekenäs.
Time for a swim?
Is your dog in need of cooling itself down during a hot summer day? Then you can visit the dog’s beach in Ekenäs. If you walk from Stallörsparken along Västvallen you’ll see the little beach and hopefully your dog gets to play and have fun with other dogs in the water. Please remember that dogs aren’t allowed to swim in other public beaches.
When hunger hits
It’s important for both the dog and its owner to eat good food during the day, and in Raseborg many restaurants accept dogs in the venue and on the patio. In Ekenäs you can eat a fresh lunch at Cafferie at the market square, where they offer water to all dogs. You can also enjoy a lovely coffee break at the terrace of Café Schjerfbeck on the opposite side of the market square. The charming Café Gamla Stan is also a dog-friendly destination. The café is idyllically nestled under the shade of apple trees, and as a bonus, you might run into the café’s own adorable staff member, the café dog, who happily greets visitors.
In the evening you can enjoy a cold drink at Baywatch while your little friend is sleeping in the shadow at the terrace. Afterwards you can have dinner at Albatros and watch the magical sunset. Albatros is a dog-friendly restaurant. The terrace of the summer restaurant Niska is also a good option for you and your dog. If in the middle of your adventures you get a craving for a snack, you can always head to Getnabben Grill in the beautiful seascape of Kopparö. If you’re on a day trip to Karis, you can head to Restaurant KW, which serves food from lunch to dinner. Club 18 in Karjaa also welcomes dogs with open arms, except on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings after 9pm, when the dance floor opens up and it’s time for our furry friends to move outside. Mustion Linna and the Restaurant Linnankrouvi also welcome dogs both inside and outside, depending on availability.
Dogs are also welcome in Fiskars at Fiskars Wärdshus and Restaurant Kuparipaja where they can join you inside and outside. Café Antique is a sure choice when both the dog owner and the cute companion need a break.
Tourist attractions for you and your dog
Who doesn’t want to bring their best friend when exploring the best attractions of Raseborg? You can go on an adventure to Raseborg Castle area with your dog, although not inside the castle. Your dog can also join you to Slottknektens Stuga for something to eat. Svartå Manor is another castle that welcomes dogs.
If you want to experience the archipelago it’s a great idea to book a summer cruise to Jussarö. Another way to get to feel the sea breeze is to take the ferry to Skåldö and visit Sommaröstrand. Why not share an ice cream with your dog?
Stay overnight with your dog
As Raseborg is a large area with much to see, it’s an excellent idea to stay with us for a longer time. But where could you stay with your pet friend? Several hotels and B&B:s offer dog services in different villages. In Fiskars Village Fiskars Wärdshus offers one room for people with pets. The Torby in Fiskars also offers a few dog-friendly rooms in a separate building. In Ekenäs Motel Marine and Hotel Sea Front also host dogs, but you should remember to let them know about your friend beforehand. Near Karis the cozy Dönsby B&B offers two rooms for staying with dogs. If you’re considering renting a cottage for your stay, you should ask the owner for their rules on having pets with you.
The regular tourist information point in Ekenäs at Raseborg Museum is closed for renovations from February to October 2025. Brochures and maps can be downloaded from here or picked up at the library of Ekenäs and from most shops, cafés, restaurants.
Luckan Raseborg in Karis is open during the whole year. Address: Dalgatan 4 (Kulturhuset Fokus), 10300 Karis.
Open: Mon, Tue, Wed 9-19 Wed, Fri 9-17 Sat 10-14
Luckan Raseborg sells tickets to various events through Netticket, Lippupiste and Ticketmaster Suomi.
The stately Svartå Manor also serves its local customers and can help with booking guided tours, accommodation or perhaps reserving a table to have a good meal at Slottskrogen-restaurant.
The Frimans Diversehandel-shop in Tenala village serves tourists all year round when the village shop is open. Here you’ll find information and some maps and brochures about Raseborg. In the authentic Village Shop you’ll find a bit of everything including a gourmet shop. Restaurant Bakfickan operates in another traditional building connected with the shop. Address: Sockenvägen 19, 10520 Tenala.
The info points all have a green or green/white info sign outside and can provide for basic material like brochures and maps.
Raseborg Tourism Services
Raseborg Tourism Service is pleased to answer your questions Monday/Wednesday/Friday at 10-15 by email tourist.office@raseborg.fi and by phone + 358 19 289 2010. Visit Raseborg
