Vaasa travel guide

Photo of Vaasa University of Applied Sciences in Vaasa in Finland by Santeri Viinamäki
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Introduction to Vaasa

Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre, and Korsholm Church have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Vaasa, Finland. Vaasa has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This city in the region of Ostrobothnia in Finland is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 67.6 thousand people, the city of Vaasa is truly one of the main highlights of Finland.

Easily accessible from Vaasa airport, Vaasa is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Finland any time of the year.

Travelers curious about Vaasa might find it interesting that the city was named after House of Vasa and founded in 1606. You'll learn more fascinating facts about Vaasa as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Vaasa is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Vaasa below!

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

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Vaasa, Finland. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 319 airlines that fly to Finland. Compare the rates and services of the 2 types of places to stay in Vaasa and the 5 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Vaasa.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Vaasa, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Vaasa on your vacation in Finland.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Vaasa from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Vaasa!

Learn more about Finland

There are many reasons to visit the city of Vaasa, but a trip to Finland needs no explanation.

Exploring Finland, which spans 338,424 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Finland offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre, and the Korsholm Church, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Finland.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Finland.

What to see in Vaasa

Vaasa has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Vaasa.

Top attractions in Vaasa

Home to plenty of top attractions, Vaasa is more than just a wonderful city in Finland. Vaasa is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Finland.

One fascinating sight in Vaasa is the unforgettable Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum. 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 Finland, check out our list of top attractions in Vaasa below. Discover the best places to visit in Vaasa, including the fascinating Vaasa Automobile and Motor Museum, Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre, Korsholm Church, and Brage Open Air Museum.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Vaasa.

Things to do in Vaasa

Enrich your travel experience in Vaasa by joining tours and activities. Vaasa offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Vaasa below.

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Discover the best things to do in Vaasa.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Vaasa. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Vaasa

Dining in Vaasa offers a unique blend of traditional Finnish cuisine and international flavours. The city centre hosts the best places to eat in Vaasa, from charming street food stalls to high-end restaurants. A must-try is the herring dish, a local delicacy typically served with potatoes and lingonberries. The Vaasa Market Square is an ideal spot for sampling local street food, including 'lihapiirakka' (meat pie) and 'karjalanpiirakka' (Karelian pasty). For a more upscale dining experience, the Restaurant Strampen, located in a historic customs building, serves traditional Finnish dishes with a modern twist. For seafood lovers, the Gustav Wasa is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood. Don't miss out on the 'salmiakki', a unique Finnish liquorice dessert. When exploring Vaasa, make it a point to try 'leipäjuusto' (bread cheese) paired with cloudberry jam, a local favourite. Remember to pair your meals with Finnish beers or 'lonkero', a local gin-based drink. From street food to gourmet dining, Vaasa's culinary scene is a delightful journey of flavours and traditions.

Best Shopping in Vaasa

Vaasa, a charming coastal city in Finland, offers an exquisite shopping experience. For those seeking the best place to go shopping in Vaasa, Rewell Center is a must-visit. It's the city's most extensive shopping mall, boasting over 60 stores featuring trendy Scandinavian fashion, homeware, and local Finnish products.

The city's Market Square is another shopping hotspot, where you'll find local vendors selling fresh produce, traditional Finnish handicrafts, and mouthwatering street food. The square is particularly vibrant during the summer months, offering a delightful blend of shopping and cultural immersion.

For a more niche shopping experience, head to Pitkäkatu Street, known for its unique boutiques and specialty stores. Here, you can purchase one-of-a-kind souvenirs, such as handcrafted jewelry and Marimekko textiles, showcasing Finnish design at its finest.

Remember, most shops in Vaasa open at 10 am and close around 6 pm on weekdays, with shorter opening hours on weekends. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is recommended for the market square. Happy shopping in Vaasa!

Best free things to do in Vaasa

Explore Vaasa, a charming city on the west coast of Finland, without breaking the bank. One of the best free things to do in Vaasa is a visit to the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through this unique terrain, shaped by the Ice Age, and be awed by its stunning natural beauty. Another must-see is the Old Vaasa, where the city's history comes alive through its preserved ruins. For the art enthusiasts, Vaasa City Art Gallery hosts rotating contemporary art exhibitions for free. A trip to Vaasa isn't complete without a stroll around Vaasa Market Square, a bustling hub where you can soak in the local atmosphere, admire the city's architecture, and perhaps enjoy a picnic with food from the local grocery. Don't forget to visit Vaasa's numerous parks, like the Onkilahti park, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city. With these activities, you can experience the best of Vaasa's culture, history, and natural beauty without spending a dime.

Vacation packages in Vaasa

The best and easiest way to visit Vaasa is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Finland.

Booking a vacation package to Vaasa means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Vaasa to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Vaasa is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Vaasa, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Vaasa.

Find vacation packages in Vaasa

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Vaasa.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Vaasa get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Finland. Your customized holiday package to Vaasa is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Vaasa

To get to the city of Vaasa the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Finland can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Vaasa by booking flights with any of the 2 airlines that offer direct flights to Vaasa airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Vaasa airport are Ryanair, United Airlines, Air China, Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Vaasa.

To reach the city of Vaasa, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Vaasa airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Vaasa, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Vaasa airport and Vaasa below.

Find cheap flights to Vaasa

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Vaasa, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Finland. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Vaasa, Finland, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Vaasa costs around 80 EUR and is offered by the airline Finnair.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Vaasa cost approximately 455 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on July 3 and the return flight is scheduled on July 25. The flight time is around 20 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Helsinki.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Finland and the city of Vaasa from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Vaasa

Travelers visiting Vaasa in Finland can fly to Vaasa airport directly from 1463 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Vaasa airport and the city of Vaasa in Finland depart from Sydney airport in Sydney, Australia, Tocumen International airport in Panama City, Panama, and Keflavík International airport in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Travelers can fly to Finland by choosing from from 5 weekly flight(s) from Sydney; from 4 weekly flight(s) from Panama City; and from 3 weekly flight(s) from Reykjavik.

The airline that operates most flights to Finland is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 12 scheduled flight routes to Finland.

Discover the most popular flights to Vaasa below. Click to view flights to Vaasa, Finland from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Vaasa

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 accommodation in downtown Vaasa offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at 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 2 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 5-star or 4-star hotels in Vaasa. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations 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 next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Vaasa

A trip to the fascinating Vaasa, Finland, means opportunities to relax at any of the 2 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 5 hotels and 1 vacation rental apartment. 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.

In Vaasa, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Pro Apartments 2. For approximately 116 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular vacation rental apartment.

Below is a list of all 2 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. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 6 hotels.

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 the 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 by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Vaasa

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Vaasa on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Vaasa that match the information provided.

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.

Car rental in Vaasa

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Vaasa. Vaasa has 5 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Vaasa start from 44.81 EUR per day or 313.65 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Golf.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Vaasa, starting from 40.07 EUR per day or 280.5 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Skoda Fabia.

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

Popular types of car rental in Vaasa

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Vaasa to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Vaasa can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Finland at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Vaasa is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Vaasa is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Vaasa.

Check out all options available in Vaasa and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Finland below.

Search for car rental 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

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.

Finland is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! 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 of 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.

Domestic flights from Vaasa

A taste of Finland through a visit to Vaasa can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Vaasa to another remarkable destination in Finland.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Vaasa to other spectacular locations in Finland, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Vaasa

Travelers in Finland can catch flights to domestic airports in Helsinki, and Rovaniemi. Domestic flights in Finland are operated by 1 airline: Finnair. There are around 2 scheduled flight routes operating to Vaasa on a weekly basis.

From Vaasa, travelers can book scheduled flights to 2 domestic destinations.

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.

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