Helsinki was originally established at this site in 1550 before moving to its current center in 1640.
The rapids are a known spawning ground for sea trout and salmon.
The Vanhankaupunginkoski power plant building, designed by architect Selim A. Lindqvist, dates back to 1911.
Lammassaari island features traditional summer cottages and is accessible only via a long wooden duckboard walkway.
The surrounding Viikki area is home to the University of Helsinki's research farm and botanical gardens.
The area is part of the Helsinki National Urban Park network.
The water flow through the rapids is regulated by a dam system to manage river levels.
Vanhankaupunginkoski is the historic site where Helsinki was founded in 1550 by King Gustav I of Sweden. It features a series of rapids created by the Vantaa River flowing into the Gulf of Finland. The area functions as a nature reserve and a popular site for salmon and trout fishing. The landscape includes industrial heritage buildings, including a former power plant converted into the Tekniikan Museo (Museum of Technology). Trails cross the islands of Lammassaari and Kuusiluoto, connected by wooden duckboards through reed beds. It serves as an important habitat for diverse bird species, particularly near the Viikki nature conservation area. The rapids are managed to prevent flooding and preserve the local ecosystem. The area provides access to historic wooden buildings alongside modern residential architecture in the adjacent Arabianranta district.
The bridge spanning the widest part of the rapids offers a clear view of the water, the historic power plant, and the surrounding greenery.
Walk the long wooden duckboards to Lammassaari for birdwatching.
Visit the riverside paths on both the east and west banks to see the rapids from different elevations.
Combine your walk with a visit to the neighboring Arabianranta district for its public art installations.
Do not attempt to walk off-trail in the protected marshland areas to avoid disturbing nesting birds.
The nature trails and outdoor areas are accessible year-round, though duckboards may be slippery or partially submerged during high water levels in spring.
Stay on marked trails and duckboards to protect the fragile wetland flora and nesting bird habitats; keep dogs on a leash.
