This is a post I was really looking forward to sharing!
Naantali is quite possibly the prettiest town in Finland – I only spent one afternoon here, but was so impressed I started looking for summer cottages here to rent next summer!
Naantali is probably most known for Moominworld which resides on nearby Kailo island, connected to the town with a small bridge. The trip to Moominland was a treat in itself and I had no idea that I will be more impressed with the town. I’ve heard it’s pretty and I’m happy to report the rumors are true.
A bit about the town – Naantali is only 14 km away from Turku, the former capital city, in the southwest of Finland. There are a few options for how to get there if you don’t have a car, the most interesting one is probably taking a steamboat from Aura river in Turku. It runs in summer and you can get to your destination while checking out the gorgeous archipelago.
It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Finland, and even the Finnish president has his summer residence here.
If it’s good enough for the president, we had to check it out.
After a morning in Moominland, we crossed the bridge back into town.
It was lunchtime and the town has just started waking up.
Locals walking their dogs, families taking a lunchtime stroll and tourists looking for the best seats by the water.
The old church is sticking out from behind the trees and dominating the area of the harbour, making sure it gets into every picture you take.
It completes the whole postcard look of Naantali. And we haven’t even checked the old town.
Look at these wooden houses.
Straight out of fairy-tale, right? Absolutely gorgeous!
If you’re lucky enough to live in Naantali, this would be your preferred method of transport.
It’s not quite Venice, but less crowded, less pigeons and more importantly no gondola traffic jams in canals!
A little stroll around the harbour will take you around a neighbourhood that will turn you green with envy.
Sea views sheltered by leafy trees, gorgeous houses with immaculately planted gardens, and tourists walking by with mouth open snapping with their cameras.
This would be my dream house.
No too posh, too showy, just close enough to the water and far enough from the spotlight.
Side road took us back to the maze of wooden houses.
There is plenty to explore – you will find small hotels, cute little coffee shops, art galleries, Finnish design shops and even a Moomin dedicated shop.
Most importantly – even the restaurants and bars are hosted in these traditional wooden houses. That means you can claim to “explore the cultural heritage of Finland” while drowning in another glass of wine! Or beer.
After a lot of walking around, don’t forget to taste the local food!
Kaivohoune was recommended to us by a local (thank you Tiina!) and it didn’t disappoint. With an impressive play area for kids and delicious menu, it was a win an all fronts.
After a long day full of adventures, there was only time for a kick off in the park and a truck load of ice cream.
It may have easily been a Christmas day, it certainly felt like it!
Until next time Naantali!
