Vaasa travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Vaasa

Home to more than 67.6 thousand people and the magnificent Ruins of Old Vaasa, Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, and Korsholm Church, Vaasa is an adventure awaiting you. With a unique historical background and an incredible variety of natural and architectural beauty, Vaasa is a highlight in Finland. This city in the region of Ostrobothnia in Finland is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers.

Traveling to Vaasa is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions. The city was named after House of Vasa and founded in 1606. Finnish and Swedish is the official language in Vaasa.

Easily accessible from Vaasa, Vaasa is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Finland any time of the year. Explore this culturally-rich city and easily plan your trip to Finland. For an enriched understanding of the city’s cultural tapestry and local events, you might want to consult the official website of Vaasa.

History of Vaasa

Vaasa, a city on the west coast of Finland, is steeped in history. In the 14th century, it served as a hub for Catholic missions. However, it was officially founded in 1606, during the reign of Charles IX of Sweden.

Vaasa was named after the Vasa royal family and quickly became an important center for education, culture, and administration in Finland. The city played a crucial role in the Finnish War, serving as the capital of Finland in 1918 during the Civil War.

The Great Fire of Vaasa in 1852 dramatically changed the cityscape, but also led to a period of rapid reconstruction, resulting in the unique blend of old and new architecture seen today. The neo-renaissance and art nouveau buildings that emerged during this period are key attractions. Vaasa's history is not just in its past, but also in its vibrant present as a thriving, modern city.

Local culture and customs in Vaasa

Vaasa, a vibrant city in Western Finland, is known for its unique blend of Swedish and Finnish cultures. Finnish is the official language, but a significant portion of inhabitants also speak Swedish. English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations, so communication is unlikely to pose a problem for most tourists.

A prominent feature of Vaasa's culture is its commitment to sustainability and nature appreciation. The city's proximity to the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has fostered a strong love for the outdoors among locals. When visiting, it is considered respectful to adhere to the philosophy of 'leave no trace.'

Finnish people, including Vaasans, appreciate punctuality. Arriving on time for appointments or meetings is considered a sign of respect. Lastly, the city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters. The Vaasa City Art Gallery and the Ostrobothnian Museum should not be missed for culture enthusiasts. Remember to check opening times, as many establishments close early in Finland compared to other European countries.

Currency information for travelers in Vaasa

The official currency in Vaasa, Finland is the Euro (€). It's recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places including hotels, restaurants, and shops. The most common cards are Visa and MasterCard, with American Express being less commonly accepted. ATMs, known locally as Otto, are found throughout the city. These machines offer cash withdrawals in Euros, with English language service available. Be aware of foreign transaction fees from your bank when using your card abroad. As for budgeting, Vaasa is moderately expensive. Dining out, transportation, and leisure activities can add up quickly, so plan your budget accordingly. Consider purchasing a city card if you're planning on visiting several attractions, which can offer significant savings.

Language tips for travelers in Vaasa

In Vaasa, the majority of the population is bilingual, speaking both Finnish and Swedish. However, English is widely understood and spoken by many, especially in tourist areas and among younger people. It is useful to learn a few basic phrases in Finnish or Swedish, such as 'kiitos' (thank you) in Finnish, or 'tack' in Swedish. When addressing locals, it's polite to start with 'Hei' (Hello) in Finnish or 'Hej' in Swedish. Finnish pronunciation can be tricky, but Finns appreciate any attempts to speak their language. As for written communication, most signs and menus are in Finnish, Swedish, and often in English too, making navigation relatively easy for English speakers.

Best time to visit Vaasa

The best time to explore Vaasa, Finland, largely depends on the type of experience you're seeking. For warm weather and outdoor activities, consider visiting between June and August. This period offers long sunshine-filled days, with temperatures averaging around 20°C. Popular summer events like the Vaasa Festival and Night of the Arts make the city especially lively. Be mindful that these months also attract the highest number of tourists, so book accommodations ahead. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere and want to witness the magical Northern Lights, plan your trip between September and March. However, temperatures drop significantly during these months, often falling below 0°C. The annual Vaasa Marssi, a walking event held in September, also adds to the charm of visiting in the fall. Regardless of the season, remember that the weather can be unpredictable in Vaasa, so pack accordingly. Ultimately, the best time to visit Vaasa depends on your personal preferences and the experiences you seek.

Weather in Vaasa

Vaasa, a city on the west coast of Finland, experiences a subarctic climate with distinct seasons. The summer months of June to August are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C. These months also enjoy the most sunlight, with nearly 19 hours of daylight at the summer solstice. In contrast, winters are cold and harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November to March. Snowfall is common during this period, and the city can be blanketed in snow for several months.

The transitional seasons of spring and autumn can be unpredictable, with temperatures varying widely. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, but autumn is generally the wettest season. The city's coastal location can contribute to windy conditions, especially in the winter. Travelers should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, particularly in the colder months. It's always advisable to pack layers and waterproof clothing to adjust to the changing weather swiftly.

Local tip for visiting Vaasa

Vaasa, a charming city on the west coast of Finland, is renowned for its cultural attractions and natural beauty. An insider tip from locals, which is less known to tourists, is to explore the city on a bike. Vaasa is a cycle-friendly city, with numerous well-marked bike paths that wind through picturesque landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant residential areas. Renting a bike can be a cost-effective and enjoyable way to navigate the city at your own pace. Additionally, locals suggest visiting the Vaasa market square, not just for the fresh produce and local delicacies, but also to meet and chat with the locals. Finns may seem reserved initially, but they usually open up and are quite friendly once engaged in conversation. This insider tip is not only a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture but also to uncover lesser-known attractions in the city that may not be in the guidebooks.

Top services in Vaasa

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Vaasa, Finland. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Vaasa, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Finland. Check out the best things to do in Vaasa. Compare the rates and services of the 4 types of stays and 6 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Vaasa with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Vaasa from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Vaasa with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Vaasa travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Vaasa!

Learn more about Finland

With destinations such as Vaasa, a trip to Finland needs no further explanation. Spanning over 338,145 square kilometers, Finland is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Finland has something to enchant every traveler.

In Vaasa alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Ruins of Old Vaasa, Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, and Korsholm Church. Thus, a trip to Finland becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Finland offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Finland. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Finland and its offers.

What to see in Vaasa

Photo  of St. Nicholas Church, Vaasa, Finland.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Vaasa, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Vaasa offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Vaasa travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Vaasa

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Vaasa is more than just a wonderful city in Finland. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Finland's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Vaasa is the unforgettable Ruins of Old Vaasa. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Vaasa.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Vaasa, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Vaasa, including the fascinating Ruins of Old Vaasa, Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, Korsholm Church, and Brage Open Air Museum.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Vaasa.

How to get to Vaasa

International travelers can fly to Vaasa by booking flights with SAS, and Finnair, offering flights to Vaasa. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Vaasa.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Vaasa, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Vaasa. Go to this page to compare all flights to Vaasa.

Find cheap flights to Vaasa

Photo of Raippaluoto bridge in Vaasa Finland.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Vaasa is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Vaasa. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Vaasa, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search" and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Vaasa even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book" and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Vaasa both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Vaasa

Travelers visiting Vaasa can easily access the city via Vaasa, offering direct connection to 2 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Vaasa below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Vaasa and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay in Vaasa

Photo of A lighthouse in Kvarken Vaasa ,Finland.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Vaasa is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Vaasa usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Vaasa offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Vaasa and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Vaasa planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Vaasa, you'll find 4 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Finland can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Vaasa. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Vaasa.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Vaasa in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Vaasa

A trip to Vaasa means opportunities to relax at any of the 4 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Vaasa provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Vaasa. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Below is a list of all 4 different types of places to stay in Vaasa. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Vaasa

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Vaasa for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Vaasa provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Vaasa are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Vaasa.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Vaasa. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Vaasa by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Vaasa

See more

Search for accommodation in Vaasa

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Vaasa is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Vaasa effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Vaasa

Photo of Vaasa University in old factory building Vaasa ,Finland.

To navigate Vaasa effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 6 car rental companies in Vaasa, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Vaasa start at 30 EUR per day or 213 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Polo 1.0 Auto. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Vaasa, starting at 28 EUR per day or 197 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Volkswagen Up 1.0.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Vaasa, Finland below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Vaasa

Renting a car in Vaasa is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Vaasa, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Vaasa for your upcoming adventures in Finland below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Vaasa

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Vaasa. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Vaasa, Finland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Vaasa

Photo of Marina in Vaasa. Finland.

The city of Vaasa is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Finland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Finland has it all.

Each destination in Finland offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Finland that are as magical as the city of Vaasa. The most popular travel destinations in Finland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Finland

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Finland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Vaasa

Vaasa, a vibrant city in Finland, is equipped with a variety of transportation options for both locals and visitors. The city's public transportation system, operated by Vaasan Lähiliikenne, provides a network of buses that cover the entire city and its surrounding areas, offering a convenient and affordable way to explore Vaasa.

Taxis are another popular mode of transport, with several reliable companies such as Vaasan Taksipalvelu and Taksi Vaasa providing service. For those who prefer the freedom of self-drive, numerous car rental agencies, including international chains like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, are available in the city. These agencies offer a range of vehicles to suit various needs and budgets.

For a unique local experience, consider exploring the city by bike. Vaasa is a bike-friendly city with several dedicated cycling paths and bike rental services. In the summer, the local ferries provide an exciting opportunity to explore the archipelago and experience the city from a different perspective.

Domestic flights from Vaasa

Photo of  Church of Korsholm Vaasa.Finland.

Experience the authentic charm of Finland by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Vaasa. Explore other destinations around Finland with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Vaasa to other amazing locations in Finland, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Finland for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Vaasa.

Search domestic flights from Vaasa

Traveling to another city or region in Finland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Vaasa to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Finland on the selected dates.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.