10 tips for an event weekend

Welcome to Hämeenlinna! Use these tips to get the most out of your event and festival weekend in Hämeenlinna.

1. Arrive smoothly

In Hämeenlinna, everything is close by – no matter how you choose to get around!

Buses
You can find the Hämeenlinna bus schedules here: Hämeenlinna Route Planner

Taxis
Order a taxi from Taksi Häme by calling 0200 55 111

Electric scooters
Scooters are also available in Hämeenlinna! Grab an electric scooter (multiple providers available) and zip smoothly to your destination.

Mahlia Mankeli
Rent a Mahlia Mankeli Jopo bike from Cafe & Rent Mahlia or the Hämeenlinna Market Square and pedal to your destination!

2. Go on a flea market tour

Does your festival outfit need a finishing touch, or are you interested in a treasure hunt at Hämeenlinna’s numerous flea markets? There are plenty of flea markets and second-hand boutiques to explore in the rugged industrial area of Kantola, the Kauriala district near the city center, and in the very heart of the city.
Check here for tips for a flea market tour in Hämeenlinna.

3. Pre-parties

The weather gods have promised beautiful summer weather for the festivals, and Hämeenlinna’s numerous terraces invite you to enjoy some pre-party drinks! Check out tips for a terrace tour.

4. Craving a cup of coffee?

The unhurried atmosphere of Hämeenlinna is also reflected in its café culture. There is always time for a cup, and the cafés offer plenty of variety. Create summer memories in our charming summer cafés as well! Explore the café selection in Hämeenlinna.

5. Feeling hungry?

Restaurants in Hämeenlinna are united by a love for local ingredients and atmospheric settings, perfect for celebrating life’s highlights, such as the Häme Medieval Festival! Explore the restaurant selection in Hämeenlinna.

6. Feed your soul with art

The art summer in Hämeenlinna offers its bounty through more than ten different galleries and numerous exhibitions that change monthly. If you only have time for one, stop by the Hämeenlinna Art Museum, where you can experience the core collection evacuated from Vyborg as well as numerous temporary exhibitions.

7. Refresh yourself in the waters of Appara

Take it easy and head towards the stunning sandy beach and ridged forest landscapes of the Ahvenisto nature reserve, known locally as “Appara”! Appara Activity Center offers activities ranging from an adventure park to an outdoor swimming pool, and the beach terrace serves cold drinks alongside highly acclaimed Shanghai tacos. Did you know that Ahvenisto was built for the 1952 Olympics and hosted the Olympic pentathlon?

Tip! Ahvenisto is located just a short distance from the center of Hämeenlinna, and you can get there on buses 1, 3, and 14.

8. Be enchanted by the national landscape at Aulanko

Aulanko, the gem of Hämeenlinna, offers visitors unique nature experiences and opportunities for active leisure. It is no wonder that romantic Aulanko has inspired artists and attracted tourists for over a hundred years.

Local bus 2U runs from the Hämeenlinna railway station to the Aulanko outdoor center and back. Take a walk to the Aulanko observation tower above the breathtakingly beautiful national landscape and wander through enchanting fairytale forests. At the end of your trip, stop for an ice cream at the Aulanko Tower Café or the Aulanko Outdoor Center Café.

9. Dive into history at Häme Castle

The crown of Hämeenlinna, standing on the shores of Lake Vanajavesi, is of course the medieval Häme Castle. The Carnival – ITE Art Exhibition, on display at Häme Castle until March 27, 2027, proclaims the Day of the False King in the spirit of medieval carnival tradition.

10. Need first aid?

Accidents can happen! The Emergency Clinic at Ahvenisto Hospital (Assi) is located at Sairaalakatu 3 A. Please call the toll-free number 116 117 before seeking emergency care.

Pharmacies in the center of Hämeenlinna serve festival-goers as follows:

• Goodman Pharmacy, Goodman Shopping Center, Fri 9 AM – 7 PM, Sat 9 AM – 6 PM, Sun 12 PM – 6 PM
• Tori-Apteekki, Hallituskatu 18, Fri 8 AM – 9 PM, Sat 9 AM – 6 PM, and Sun 11 AM – 7 PM
• Keskusapteekki, Raatihuoneenkatu 8, Fri 9 AM – 6 PM, Sat 10 AM – 3 PM, Sun closed.
• Apteekki Tavastila, Eteläkatu 14 (Tavastila Shopping Center), Fri 8:30 AM – 7 PM, Sat 9 AM – 4 PM, Sun closed.