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
Fall in love with the Raseborg’s beautiful nature, rich history, and vast area. In this article, you will find tips on how to plan your trip, bike rental, and other helpful information to help make your trip to Raseborg by bike unforgettable.
Pick your Path!
Whether you’re looking for a short daytrip or a longer adventure, there’s a route for you in Raseborg. Here you will find some inspiration for planning your trip, but all bicycle routes can be found here. Check out the service Bikeland, where you can find both local and national routes.
Daytrips or Shorter Adventures
Railbank Route runs from Karis to Billnäs, all the way to Fiskars through Åminnefors. This nature lovers’ path is 12 km long. Looking for something longer? Try the Ironworks Village Route, that passes through six historical Ironworks in the Raseborg area on its 79 km long route. Only have an afternoon? Try the short bike- and hiking friendly Culture Route from Pumpviken in Karis to Billnäs Ironworks.
Historical Routes
For the historically inclined, Raseborg offers much to discover on a bike. Try the 46km long Frontline route, which takes you through many historically significant war locations. If you’re more interested in medieval times, try the Castle route. You will discover many ruins of castles that tell the story of Raseborg’s rich medieval culture.
Mountain Biking
Fiskars Village Trail Center offers great mountain biking routes, enjoy the restaurants and cafés in Fiskars Village while you’re there.
The Coastal Route and Longer Adventures
If you love the seaside and you’re looking for a longer adventure, check out the Coastal route that takes you through Raseborg to the neighboring cities of Hangö, Kimitoön and Salo. Read more about the Coastal route here.
Additionally, the European cycle route EuroVelo 10—also known as the Baltic Sea Cycle Route—passes through Raseborg, continuing along the Baltic Sea and further into continental Europe.
Practical Information for Cyclists
Raseborg provides a range of practical amenities for cyclists. The city has improved its cycling infrastructure with increased signs and numerous bicycle parking areas throughout the region.
In Predium, Sommaröstrand and Stallörsparken in Ekenäs, there is even a battery charging station for e-bikes, where you can safely charge your battery in a secure storage locker.
Combine your cycling trip with a visit to one of Raseborgs many beautiful beaches, enjoy delicious local food at one of our restaurants, or why not stay the night in one of our many welcoming accommodations?
Welcome Cyclist-initiative
In Raseborg, you’ll find a wide range of bicycle-friendly businesses that are part of Bikeland’s “Welcome Cyclist” initiative. Through Bikeland’s route services, you can easily discover both cycling routes and businesses that warmly welcome cyclists. Participating businesses offer essential amenities for cyclists, such as bicycle pumps, secure storage, and local route information, helping to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
No bicycle? No problem!
If you didn’t bring a bike with you, don’t worry – in Raseborg you can find lots of options. During summer, the city provides its own city bikes, ideal for exploring the different villages and neighborhoods. In addition, there are also several private rental businesses offering bicycles to suit your needs. Find more information here.
We wish you a wonderful bicycle adventure in Raseborg!
Every year several second hand events are arranged in Raseborg. The most popular ones are the annual Antique days in Fiskars and Billnäs. This year, the Antique days will be held from July 3rd to July 6th. City flea market in Ekenäs and Bromarfpojkarna’s flea market in Bromarv are also popular. You can also find children’s clothing, toys and other things at the yearly event arranged by Ekorrsvansen. Lions clubs around Raseborg are also arranging flea market events. Check our event calendar for current flea market events in the region. Here are our best tips of flea markets in Raseborg.
Flea Markets in Ekenäs, Raseborg:
Loppis Trollet is one of the most popular flea markets in Ekenäs, Raseborg and it’s open almost every day. The flea market offers clothes, toys, games, furniture and much more.
Fynda- Second hand shop is a charity second hand shop where the workers work without any salary. Finnish Missionary Society and the Assembly assistance workers are equally sharing the profit. The shop is well organized and has a lot to offer.
Småtting, next to Fynda, sells children’s clothing.
Emmaus Westervik is also a charity second hand shop that helps them who are in need. Clothes, books, furniture and things like that can be donated here.
Betesda Second Hand Shop is located in the heart of Ekenäs. Their vision is to support domestic and foreign missionary work.
Flea Markets in Karis, Raseborg:
Take the opportunity to go on a thrift store tour in Karis, as the vast majority of flea markets are within walking distance of each other!
Sequel Restyle offers a great variety of nice second hand-clothing for women, men and children on Centralgatan in the centre of Karis.
Sineaaria is a self-service flea market in the center of Karis. Here you can find clothes, books and furniture.
Roomage on Köpmansgatan sells both Scandinavian and international vintage design furniture.
RiMi Kirppis is a flea market situated on Köpmansgatan 3. Here you can find everything from furniture to clothing.
Karis Antiquarian Shop is situated in the center of Karis on Köpmansgatan. The store is filled with books and more in several different languages.
Kaippari Ry‘s flea market is situated next to Bio Pallas. In the same building you´ll find a weaving shop and sewing professional.
Missionstorget is situated next to Kanaltorget and it’s a charity second hand shop held by the Swedish speaking assembly. It’s possible to donate to this flea market.
Pohja, Raseborg:
Postilla is driven by the assembly. From this flea market you can find something for yourself or donate products that you don’t need anymore.
The highlight of the route is the bridge built over the Svartån river right next to the fishway in the dam. The bridge has a vantage point from which you can admire the village in all its beauty, and perhaps even spot a fish climbing up the fishway during migration season! The information sign on the bridge teaches visitors about the efforts made to restore the population of freshwater pearl mussels in Svartån, and of the work being done to ease the journey of migratory fish up the river.
The history of Billnäs Village reaches nearly 400 years back in time. The industries of the village have in the past produced everything from iron bars to furniture and exotic fruits, and the signs of the lively industrial history are still clearly visible. One of the aims of the path is to familiarize the visitors of the historical significance of their idyllic surroundings.
The path is suitable for both bikers and hikers. Billnäs is also a part of Raseborg’s city bike network, so the path can easily be linked with for example the beautiful Railbank route reaching all the way to Åminnefors and Fiskars. There are also several resting points with tables and chairs along the route.
The opportunities of nature lovers in Billnäs are expanding, as this summer there’s a chance to rent a fat bike, an electric bike or a kayak from the village. Biking opportunities around Billnäs are numerous, and Svartån river offers wonderful scenery for paddlers.
The extensive outdoor area in Västerby is the city residents’ meeting place for outdoor activities of various kinds. Here, skiers, orienteers, exercisers, mountain bikers, frisbee golfers and nature lovers meet. The approximately 1,500 ha large outdoor recreation center consists of varied terrain with hiking trails, ski trails and picnic areas.
The popular outdoor recreation center has a new and updated map, to make your visit even more enjoyable. In addition to a new map, the outdoor recreation center has also received some news, such as exercise stairs, a roller ski track and a barbecue hut easily accessible with a pram and wheelchair.
The map of the outdoor area can be downloaded from the link below or be picked up from the tourist information service in Ekenäs.
Raseborg is continuosly developing the public transportation system to make it smoother and more accessible, also for our visitors! During the summer of 2023, the entire ticket and timetable system has been renewed and is now known as Bosse. You can take the train to Karis and then hop on the local Bosse bus to experience the versatile and exciting neighborhoods in Raseborg.
Travel to the peaceful archipelago village of Bromarv and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant or explore Bromarv’s highest mountain (60m), Vaktkojberget, through a digital nature trail. There are also multiple daily bus tours to Ekenäs, where you can stroll among charming red cottages in the idyllic old town. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the newly opened art museum Chappe. Buses also conveniently take you to the historic Billnäs and Fiskars ironworks in Raseborg. Get off the bus at the ironworks to learn more about their fascinating history. Explore workshops, galleries, and historical buildings to gain a deeper insight into their cultural heritage and enjoy everything they have to offer.
All bus timetables and routes in Raseborg can be found in the new travel planner, which is part of Bosse, and you can travel on them using Bosse tickets.
Tickets
All ticket options are conveniently accessible through the Waltti Mobiili app! You can download the app for free from Google Play or the App Store. Alternatively, you can purchase a Bosse travel card, which allows you to load it with credit. These travel cards can be purchased from the Waltti online shop, R-kioski in Ekenäs or Luckan in Karis. The cost of a Bosse travel card is 5 €.
Ticket Options
Single ticket – Suitable for those travelling occasionally in the region. The single ticket is valid for 120 minutes. Single tickets can be purchased:
in Waltti Mobiili – 3,20 €
by obtaining a Bosse travel card and loading it with credit – 3,20 €
from a service point (R-kioski in Ekenäs, Luckan in Karis) – 3,40 €
on the bus with bank- or credit card – 3,40 €
Daily ticket – Suitable for those wanting to travel much under one day. The ticket is valid for 24 hours. Daily tickets cost 8,00 € and can be purchased:
from Waltti Mobiili
by obtaining a Bosse travel card and loading it with credit
from a service point (R-kioski in Ekenäs, Luckan in Karis)
on the bus with a bank- or credit card
30-day ticket – Suitable for those travelling on a regular basis. This ticket offers unlimited travel for the duration of its validity, allowing you to travel as frequently as you desire within that time frame. 30-day tickets cost 60,00 € and can be purchased:
from Waltti Mobiili
by loading the 30-day ticket on your Bosse travel card from the Waltti online shop or from a service point (R-kioski Ekenäs, Luckan Karis)
Value ticket – Suitable for those travelling a few times a week/month. With the Bosse travel card, you can load value that decreases as the card is used. With the value ticket, you can pay for single and day tickets on the bus. Value tickets can be purchased:
by buying a Bosse travel card and loading it with an optional amount in the Waltti online store
by buying a Bosse travel card and loading it with an optional amount in a service point (R-kioski in Ekenäs, Luckan in Karis)
Children aged 0-6 travel for free when accompanied by a paying passenger. Children under 7 travelling on their own need to purchase a child ticket.
PLEASE NOTE! Timetables and tickets for bus transportation going outside Raseborg are available on Matkahuolto’s website. Raseborg’s internal bus transportation is not visible on Matkahuolto.
Take the opportunity to enjoy the scenic surroundings and attractions of Raseborg and travel with Bosse, which will take you wherever you want in a comfortable and more sustainable way. Welcome to explore Raseborg with Bosse as your travel companion!
Raseborg offers a wide range of boat rental services, making it easy for both visitors and residents to explore the beautiful archipelago on their own. In Raseborg, boats can be hired from Ekenäs Camping, Gullö Gård, Elimostrand and Hummeldal – perfect for fishing or other boating activities.
This summer the boat rental company Skipperi introduces two new concepts in Raseborg: a pop-up boat rental in Ekenäs, but also a form of AirBnb rental for boats, where both private and professional boat owners can rent out their boats to others. Boat rental has been a great success in recent years and has helped more and more people to realise their dreams of a summer sailing trip or a long voyage in our beautiful archipelago.
Walking along the North Harbour in Ekenäs, you may notice two boats moored outside Hamnterrassen. They belong to the Finnish company Skipperi, founded in 2017, which has developed its concept of making the boating industry more sustainable and accessible to everyone, both in Finland and abroad.
Skipperi offers two different memberships to rent their boats
Skipperi Fleet membership is a monthly membership with three levels, giving access to boats in Ekenäs and over 20 other harbours in Finland, as well as internationally in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, New Zealand and Canada. The boats are available from May to October, depending on the weather.
The second membership is a local membership specifically for the rental boats in Ekenäs. For a one-off fee, the boats can be used during the best boating season 20 June – 11 August. In addition to the one-off fee, you pay a usage fee, which varies depending on the length and timing of the hire. You can find the local offer for Skipperi boats on their website www.skipperi.fi (only in Finnish).
The boats are equipped with everything from life jackets to a modern chart plotter. Skipper Academy training videos and practical training on the water are included, so no previous boating experience is necessary.
Rent out your boat and earn money
The second part of Skipperi’s business is to provide a platform through which both individuals and companies can rent out their own boats and make money from it. This has many advantages and benefits boat owners, renters and the tourism industry of the city. Currently, there are 755 boats available for hire through Skipperi, with a wide range of boats to choose from, both on a daily and weekly basis. Boat owners can choose their own tenants, when the boat is available for hire and what it costs.
For more information on Skipperi’s services and conditions, and detailed instructions on how to rent a boat, please visit the Skipperi website in Finnish, www.skipperi.fi.
Raseborg’s tourism services as well as the tourist information in Raseborg’s museum are closed during Easter (7.-10.4) and we will serve again as normal by phone and e-mail on Tuesday 11 April at 9-16.
