- Naantali was founded in 1443 as the site of a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, from which its name 'Nådendal' (Valley of Grace) originates.
- The town is officially recognized as the 'Sun City' of Finland due to its high frequency of sunny days during the summer months.
- Naantali acts as a key gateway to the Archipelago Sea, which contains the largest archipelago in the world by the number of islands.
- The town's historical development was heavily influenced by its status as a popular 18th-century spa destination following the discovery of a healing spring.
About Naantali
Naantali is one of Finland's oldest towns, established in the 15th century around a medieval Bridgettine convent. Located on the southwestern coast, the town serves as the official Summer Residence of the President of Finland, Kultaranta. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town wooden architecture or visit family-oriented destinations like Moomin World [8793]. The scenic coastline features natural spots such as Saaronniemen uimaranta [42913], while the historic Ukko-Pekan silta [151015] offers panoramic views over the archipelago. Cultural life remains active through seasonal performances at Theatre Emma & Summer Theater Emma Teatteri [26421].
Highlights of Naantali
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Amusement parks
This theme park is dedicated to the world-famous Moomin characters created by Tove Jansson.
Venues
This venue hosts popular theatrical performances and concerts during the summer months.
Beaches and ponds
This location provides a popular coastal beach area for swimming and relaxing by the Baltic Sea.
Places of interest
This historic steel arch bridge provides a scenic vantage point overlooking the Naantali harbor and coastline.
Parks
This quiet park area serves as a peaceful green space within the historic town center.
Parks
A well-maintained central park that offers a pleasant walking environment near the town's key landmarks.
Top things to do in Naantali
The 59 highest-rated places in Naantali, ranked by travellers.
1
Amusement parks
Moomin World is a theme park located on the island of Kailo in Naantali, Finland, dedicated to Tove Jansson’s Moomin cha...
2
Venues
Emma Teatteri is an open-air summer theater located on the island of Kailo in Naantali, Finland. The venue serves as the...
3
Historical places
Louhisaari Manor is a 17th-century Palladian-style manor house located in Askainen, Finland, famously serving as the bir...
4
Beaches and ponds
Saaronniemen uimaranta is a prominent sandy beach located on the scenic island of Ruissalo in Turku. It features a shall...
5
Beaches and ponds
Naantali Guest Harbour is a major nautical hub in Southwest Finland, located in the heart of the historic wooden old tow...
6
Historical places
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Places of interest
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Places of interest
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Beaches and ponds
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Parks
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Museums
14
Historical places
15
Venues
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Temples
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Temples
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Venues
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Historical places
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Beaches and ponds
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Parks
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Temples
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Parks
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Places of interest
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Naantali on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Naantali
June through August, when the summer season is in full swing, temperatures are mild for coastal activities, and all seasonal attractions are fully operational.
2-3 days, allowing enough time to explore the historic town center, visit the islands, and enjoy local cultural events.
The historic center is highly walkable, while local buses and ferries connect the town to the surrounding archipelago and nearby Turku.
The Old Town area is ideal for proximity to historic sights and the harbor, while various spa hotels located slightly outside the center offer a more relaxed resort experience.
Mid-range to expensive, as accommodation and dining in popular Finnish coastal towns during peak summer season carry premium pricing.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 59 curated attractions in and around Naantali, ranked by traveller ratings.
Moomin World is the highest-rated place to visit in Naantali right now.
The largest category is places of interest, with 17 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Helsinki, Tampere, Jyväskylä.
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Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
