Old Rauma travel guide

Old Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, is a stunningly preserved example of a Nordic wooden town. Established in the 14th century, Old Rauma's history is deeply intertwined with maritime trade and craftsmanship. The town's unique character is defined by its labyrinthine streets, colorful wooden houses, and ornate detailing, reflecting a blend of medieval and 19th-century architecture.

The Great Fire of 1682 was a pivotal moment in Old Rauma's history, destroying much of the town but sparking a remarkable reconstruction effort. The subsequent rebuilding period gave rise to many of the charming wooden structures that visitors see today. Throughout the centuries, Old Rauma has managed to retain its historical essence, resisting modern urbanization pressures.

Visitors walking through Old Rauma can experience a living museum, where cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and quaint boutiques tell the story of a vibrant community that has flourished for over 700 years. Key landmarks include the Church of the Holy Cross, a former Franciscan monastery dating back to the 15th century, and the Rauma Maritime Museum, which offers insights into the town's seafaring past. Exploring Old Rauma is like stepping back in time, offering a unique, immersive experience for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

Old Rauma stands out for its remarkably well-preserved wooden architecture, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The area comprises over 600 buildings, each showcasing traditional Nordic wooden construction techniques. Wandering through its narrow cobblestone streets, visitors can observe the intricate wooden carvings and pastel-colored facades that give the town a distinctive charm.

Another unique feature is the lively community that inhabits Old Rauma. It is not merely a museum but a living, breathing neighborhood where residents maintain the historical buildings while integrating modern amenities. This blend of old and new offers visitors a unique glimpse into daily life in a historic setting.

The town is also renowned for its traditional lace-making craft, a skill that has been passed down through generations. Various workshops and boutiques within Old Rauma offer demonstrations and sell exquisite handmade lace products, reflecting the town's rich cultural heritage.

Seasonal festivals and events, such as the annual Rauma Lace Week, further enhance its unique atmosphere. These events celebrate the town's history, arts, and crafts, bringing together locals and tourists in a vibrant cultural exchange.

Old Rauma boasts the largest unified wooden town area in the Nordic countries, spanning approximately 29 hectares with 600 buildings. The area's unique charm is partly due to its blend of architectural styles, ranging from medieval layouts to neoclassical influences. Interestingly, the narrow, winding streets reflect the medieval origins of the town, which was designed before the advent of modern urban planning. The region is also known for its vibrant lace-making tradition, celebrated annually during the Lace Week festival. Additionally, many of Old Rauma's buildings house hidden courtyards, offering a glimpse into the private lives of its residents. Notably, the Church of the Holy Cross, a former Franciscan monastery, features murals dating back to the 15th century, adding a layer of historical artistry to the town.

Located in the dynamic Rauma, the popular Old Rauma is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful street of Rauma or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Finland.

Rauma is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rauma offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Rauma and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Church of the Holy Cross, Rauma Maritime Museum, Kiikartorni, and Rauma Art Museum.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rauma has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rauma, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Finland!

The best time to explore Old Rauma is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its warmest and the historic wooden buildings bask in long daylight hours. This period sees temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for leisurely strolls through the cobbled streets. Additionally, summer is when Old Rauma comes alive with various events and festivals, such as the Rauma Lace Week in July, which celebrates the town’s rich lace-making heritage with workshops, exhibitions, and vibrant street markets.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, creating a more intimate atmosphere. These shoulder seasons still provide pleasant conditions for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn enhancing the picturesque scenery.

Winter, although colder, can be magical with its serene, snow-covered streets and festive holiday decorations. However, visitors should be prepared for shorter daylight hours and chillier temperatures, typically ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Regardless of the season, Old Rauma’s charm and historical significance make it a must-visit destination year-round.

Old Rauma is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rauma, Finland. If you're flying in, Tampere–Pirkkala Airport is approximately 72.3 miles (116.3 km) away from Rauma. From there, you can easily reach Old Rauma by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rauma, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Old Rauma, which is located 0.3 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Old Rauma, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 26100 Rauma, Finland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Old Rauma!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Old Rauma and other top attractions in Rauma than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Rauma include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Old Rauma's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Old Rauma and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind old town in Finland.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Old Rauma and Finland's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 2 reputable rental car companies near Tampere–Pirkkala Airport and the street of Rauma, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Finland cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rauma and beyond.

Conveniently explore Old Rauma and plenty more captivating attractions in Rauma by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Old Rauma and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Rauma has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Old Rauma below.

Aside from Old Rauma, Rauma is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rauma, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Church of the Holy Cross, Rauma Maritime Museum, and Kiikartorni.

Church of the Holy Cross is a bucket-list church and top attraction in Rauma, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 430 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of Church of the Holy Cross is Luostarinkatu 1, 26100 Rauma, Finland.

Another appreciated attraction in Rauma is Rauma Maritime Museum. Like Church of the Holy Cross, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 380 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Kalliokatu 34, 26100 Rauma, Finland.

Kiikartorni is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rauma. This establishment and top attraction in Rauma has been rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 280 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Suvitie 10, 26100 Rauma, Finland.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Rauma below.