20 tips for finding things to do in Sipoo
Discover the best of Sipoo and Söderkulla, including the national park, manors, art centre and outdoor activities.
City articles
17.12.2024
Sipoo is a charming municipality in the Uusimaa region, offering a variety of opportunities for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Sipooo's proximity to the Helsinki city centre makes it an ideal place for weekend trips and day trips. The municipality combines beautiful rural landscapes with modern life, offering unique experiences for all visitors.
Sipoo is known for its stunning natural sites, such as the Sipoonkorvi National Park, which attracts hikers and nature lovers with its extensive trails and rugged landscapes. The region also offers a rich cultural offer, with historic manor houses and art centres providing interesting sights and experiences. Idyllic villages along the Sipoo coast, such as Gumbostrand, offer seascapes and a relaxing atmosphere.
In this guide, we present 15 of the best things to do in Sipooo. You'll find tips on the municipality's top attractions, events and activities that will make your stay unforgettable. Whether you're looking for active outdoor pursuits, cultural experiences or a relaxing pastime, Sipoo has something for everyone. Take a look at our guide and let Sipoo's diverse offerings inspire your next visit.
Discover with us the best destinations in Sipoo!
Sipoonkorvi National Park is a stunning nature reserve just 20 kilometres from the centre of Helsinki, making it the perfect day trip destination for residents and visitors to the Helsinki Metropolitan Area. In the park you can enjoy a diverse natural environment, including a knee-high traditional landscape, twilight ears and excellent mushroom and berry landscapes. This offers the opportunity to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Sipoonkorpi offers beautiful landscapes and memorable moments for hikers. The area's varied trails and routes, such as the popular Knuters loop, lead you through gloomy fir trees and flat open cliffs. This route is ideal for those who want to experience the varied landscapes of the national park and enjoy the experiences nature has to offer.
The park is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the train to Tikkurila and then the bus to Kalkkiuunintie, where you can easily reach the park's trails. Remember to bring all the equipment you need and respect nature so that you can enjoy the true wilderness atmosphere in a safe and responsible way.
The Kalkkiruuk nature trail offers a great opportunity to explore the diverse nature of Sipoonkorvi National Park. This five-kilometre trail is a challenging but rewarding experience that takes you through the forest to an old limestone mine. Along the way, you'll also climb to the top of towering cliffs for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The path is clearly marked in yellow, making it easier to navigate and ensuring you stay on the right path. Trail markers guide you safely through the forest, and the Kalkkiruuk hut along the trail offers a place to take a break and enjoy a snack. The lodge also has a fire pit and a dry toilet, making the hike comfortable and practical.
Make sure you are well equipped with sturdy hiking boots, weatherproof clothing and enough to drink. In spring, the trail can be wet, so be prepared to cross small streams. The Kalkkiruuk nature trail offers experiences for all the senses and is suitable for both fast-paced exercise and more leisurely nature observation, providing an unforgettable experience of Sipoo's biodiversity.
Talma Ski is a versatile ski resort in Sipoo, only about 30 minutes' drive from the centre of Helsinki. It offers a great setting for winter sports for beginners and more experienced skiers alike. The centre has several slopes of different levels, including easy teaching and training slopes, family slopes and more demanding back slopes. Snowboarders will particularly enjoy the snow park areas, which offer challenges and fun for all levels of enthusiasts.
At the Talma ski resort you can ski, cross-country ski or snowboard in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. If you are a beginner, you can take part in active ski training activities to help you develop your skills safely. More experienced skiers can challenge themselves on more demanding slopes and enjoy the thrill of skiing.
The centre also offers a comprehensive range of ancillary services, such as an equipment rental service if you don't have your own equipment, and a Talma Shop where you can buy new equipment or supplies. During your skiing break, you can enjoy the restaurant services, which offer delicious food and drinks. Talma Ski is an excellent choice for the whole family who wants to experience the thrill of winter sports close to the capital.
Sipoo offers great opportunities for cycling in the countryside. You can enjoy beautiful nature and quiet roads as you cycle through the municipality. The South by Cycle route is an excellent alternative to a longer cycle ride, as this almost 900 km route runs partly through Sipoo, offering spectacular scenery and experiences.
Sipoo also has shorter routes for different levels of cyclists. You can plan your own route along the municipality's minor roads or follow the signposted outdoor routes. While cycling, you can stop to admire rural landscapes, old villages and historical sites. Be sure to bring a packed lunch and a water bottle, as services can be scarce in rural areas.
Check out the cycling opportunities in Sipoo beforehand and plan your route carefully. Make sure your bike is in good condition and take along basic tools for any minor repairs. Cycling is a great way to explore the Sipoo countryside and enjoy the fresh outdoor air while getting sustainable exercise.
In the Sipoon River you can experience a variety of fishing opportunities. The river offers excellent places to catch perch and pike, and in spring you can even catch pike. There are several rapids and rapids along the river, which create ideal conditions for fishing. The largest rapids can be found at Paippis in Hommanäs, and below Broböle dam there are also rapids that offer good fishing opportunities.
Remember to obtain the necessary fishing permits before you start fishing. 18-64 year olds will need a valid 2024 state fisheries management fee in addition to the target permit. If you do not own your own fishing equipment, you can rent a kayak or SUP board from a farm in Joensuu, for example, on the shore of Sipoonlahti. The farm also organises guided kayak trips in the Sipoon River valley, which can be a fun way to combine fishing and kayaking.
The River Sipoon offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature and fishing close to the metropolitan area. Take your time to explore the different stretches of the river and find the best fishing spots. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or a beginner, the Sipoonjoki's peaceful surroundings and diverse fishing opportunities offer enjoyable moments in the lap of nature.
The Paippinen area in Sipoo is the perfect destination for those who enjoy rural landscapes and natural tranquillity. This charming area offers a rural idyll at its best, combining lush fields, denser woodland and traditional buildings. The scenic route is ideal for hiking and cycling, with numerous opportunities to stop along the way to admire the beauty of the area or enjoy a picnic in a peaceful setting.
Along the route you can see old farms and small landmarks that tell the history of Paippinen. Spring and summer are particularly good times to visit, as the area comes alive with flowering fields and birdsong. The route's ease of access makes it suitable for hikers of all ages, and it is also a great place for peaceful outdoor activities.
The Paippinen scenic route is an excellent way to explore the rural areas of Sipoo, get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature just a short distance from the capital.
Winter cycling is an excellent way to enjoy the beautiful nature of Sipoo, even in cold weather. There are several routes in the Sipoo area that are ideal for winter cycling. The South by Cycle route runs partly through Sipoo and offers the possibility of a longer winter adventure. This almost 900 km long route offers a variety of landscapes and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
Sipoonkorvi National Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers. Mountain biking is allowed on all visible trails, offering plenty of options for different skill levels. The trails are well maintained, offering both challenging and relaxed sections suitable for all cyclists. Winter cycling in Sipooo is also an environmentally friendly way to get around and experience local nature in a new way.
Be properly equipped for winter cycling. Wear studded tyres for better grip on icy roads, and dress warmly in layers. Bring a warm drink and an energy-dense snack, as winter cycling uses more energy than summer cycling. Check the condition of your bike before you set off and make sure your brakes and gears are working properly. Also take a small repair kit with you in case of any problems.
The Sipoo karting track offers an exciting opportunity to test your driving skills. The track is located a short distance from the centre of Helsinki, making it an easily accessible destination for locals and visitors alike. The karting car is a small and lightweight racing car that allows you to enjoy a fast-paced driving experience in a safe environment. On the track, you can drive alone or organise a race with your friends, adding to the excitement and fun of the competition.
The track is designed for both beginners and more experienced drivers. Before driving, you will receive a comprehensive briefing on safety rules and car handling, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience for all. A karting drive is an excellent activity for birthdays, stag or hen parties or a company retreat, offering an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience.
The track is equipped with modern and well-maintained karting cars, so you can be confident that the equipment is safe and functional. You can hire the necessary equipment on site, so you don't have to worry about your own driving gear. Driving on the Sipoo karting track is fun and safe, and a great way to spend an active day outdoors challenging yourself in a new way.
Vastaranta Art Centre is one of Sipoo's most interesting cultural attractions, offering a unique art experience in an idyllic setting. At the centre, you can explore temporary exhibitions featuring the work of both local and international artists. The exhibitions cover a wide range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures and installations, making each visit different and inspiring.
You can also enjoy soothing walking trails through the artworks in the Art Centre area. This combination creates a unique experience where art and nature blend seamlessly together, providing visitors with a harmonious environment for admiring art and enjoying the peace of nature.
During your visit, you can take part in art courses or workshops, which are organised regularly. These offer the opportunity to develop your own skills and learn about different art techniques. In the Art Centre's café, you can relax and enjoy local delicacies while chatting with other art lovers will enrich your experience. The Vastaranta Art Centre is open all year round, offering an inspiring art experience to all its visitors.
Sipoo offers the opportunity to visit historic manor houses, which enrich the cultural heritage of the municipality. Söderkulla Manor is one of the places worth visiting, situated in a beautiful setting and with a rich history. You can explore the grounds of the manor with a virtual tour from your own device, which allows you to wander the manor's lush green paths and view the surroundings from above. The virtual tour also gives you a peek inside the manor's granary.
Another interesting destination is Savijärvi Manor, which offers a great opportunity to get to know the local manor culture. Manor house visits are an excellent way to immerse yourself in the history and architecture of Sipoo, offering a unique insight into the region's past and cultural heritage. Be sure to check the opening hours of the manor houses and any guided tours before your visit to ensure the best possible experience in Sipoo's manor world.
Sköldvik's old shopping centre offers an interesting insight into Sipoo's history. Although no longer in active use, it has retained some of its charm from the past. The architecture of the shopping centre is typical of 1960s design, with simple lines and functional elements that tell their own story of the architectural style of the period.
Even though the shops are mostly closed, you can still walk around the shopping centre. Look at the details and imagine what life was like here decades ago. The Sköldvik area is known for its oil refinery, and the mall has been part of this industrial community, serving the workers and residents of the area for years.
Your visit can be thought-provoking about urban planning and social change. How have shopping centres evolved over the years? What does this place tell you about Sipoo's economic history? Although the shopping centre is no longer in operation, it is still an interesting destination for those interested in history and architecture. Take your camera and capture the views as a souvenir of your visit.
Gumbostrand is a charming village on the coast of Sipoo, offering a great setting for parties and events. This idyllic place attracts visitors with its unique atmosphere and maritime landscape. Gumbostrand Konst & Form is one of the most prominent destinations in the area, where an art gallery, a design shop and a bistro combine to offer a varied experience for visitors.
You can attend art exhibition openings, music nights or other cultural events that give you the chance to discover local art and meet interesting people. The Gumbostrand area also has other venues suitable for private and public events. You can celebrate a birthday, wedding or other special occasion by the sea, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your celebrations.
During the summer, Gumbostrand hosts outdoor events such as small festivals and markets, which are a great opportunity to experience the local culture and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to check the Sipoo Municipality Events Calendar for up-to-date information on upcoming festivals and events in Gumbostrand. By taking part in local festivals, you can get a unique experience of Sipoo's coastal life and enjoy the community and experiences the area has to offer.
There are many historic villages in the Sipoo area, offering a unique opportunity to explore the region's past. One of the most significant is Hindsby, which has existed since the 13th century. This village is located at the southern end of the Byabäcken stream valley and is one of the oldest settlements in Sipoo. On the tour you can admire the traditional rural landscape and old buildings that tell the story of the village's centuries-long history.
In the Sipoonkorvi National Park area, you can also explore traditional landscapes that tell the story of the area's agricultural history. These landscapes offer a fascinating insight into how people have shaped their environment over the centuries. During the tour, you can learn more about the history of settlement in Sipoo, including the diverse backgrounds of the people who have influenced the development and culture of the villages.
You can do the tour on your own or take a guided tour. On a guided tour, you will get more in-depth information about the history of the villages and their importance for the development of Sipoo. This makes the tour an informative and engaging experience that will enrich your understanding of Sipoo's cultural heritage.
Sondby Bryggeri in Söderkulla, Sipoo, offers a unique experience for beer lovers. This microbrewery hand-crafts quality beers from local ingredients, ensuring freshness and authenticity in every bottle. During your visit to the brewery, you can learn about the beer-making process from expert guides. On the tour you will see how malt, hops and yeast are transformed into a tasty beer, and gain valuable insights into the background of beer production.
The brewery has a cosy tap room where you can sample Sondby's fresh beers. The range includes both traditional and innovative flavours to suit different tastes. If you fancy a beer, you can buy bottled beers to take home from the brewery's shop, which make great souvenirs or mementos of your visit.
Sondby Bryggeri also organises beer courses and tasting events, where you can deepen your knowledge of beer and its brewing. These events are an opportunity to learn more about beer culture and share experiences with other beer lovers. Your visit to Sondby Bryggeri Brewery is a great way to learn about local beer culture and enjoy the diverse tastes of craft beers.
Gumbostrand Konst & Form, located on Sipoo's seafront, is a diverse cultural destination offering a unique combination of art, design and food culture. Set in an old factory environment, this art centre offers an art gallery, a design shop and a bistro, which together create a rich experience for visitors. In the art gallery you can discover Nordic contemporary art and temporary exhibitions featuring works by both established and emerging artists.
The Design Shop offers a wide range of Nordic design, making it the perfect place to find unique items and gift ideas for home or friends. You can find everything from home textiles and jewellery to woodwork made by local designers and craftspeople. This makes the shopping experience both enjoyable and meaningful.
The Gumbostrand bistro complements the cultural experience by serving delicious dishes made from local ingredients. The restaurant focuses on Scandinavian flavours, perfectly suited to the seaside environment. The surrounding red-multicolour idyll creates a charming setting for your visit, and you can combine your visit with a bike ride from Helsinki, for example. Gumbostrand Konst & Form is open all year round, so you can enjoy art, design and good food at any time, while admiring the stunning sea views.
Sipoo's rich cultural life offers interesting opportunities for art lovers. You can take part in exhibitions at the Sipoo Art Museum, which showcase a wide range of local and international art. The exhibitions change regularly, so you can always find something new and inspiring. At the Art Museum you can discover the work of local artists and get a feel for the Sipoo art community.
The Art Museum also offers guided tours and workshops, giving you the chance to deepen your knowledge of art and maybe even try your hand at making art yourself. These events are a great opportunity to learn new techniques and get inspiration for your own art projects. The museum often has a café or bistro where you can enjoy refreshments while you experience art.
It's a good idea to check the museum's opening hours and exhibition programme in advance to plan your visit. This will ensure that you don't miss any interesting exhibitions or special events. Participating in exhibitions at the Sipoo Art Museum offers you a unique opportunity to enjoy art and deepen your understanding of Sipoo's cultural heritage.
The Gumbostrand Cultural Park is one of the gems of Sipoo, offering a diverse art and design experience to its visitors. This unique destination is set in an old factory environment where you can admire Nordic contemporary art and design. Exhibitions change regularly, so there is something new to see on every visit.
The Cultural Park also has a design shop where you can buy unique products from local designers. Your visit will be crowned by the Bistro, where you can enjoy delicious dishes in an idyllic seaside setting. This setting adds to the charm of your visit and provides the perfect place to relax after an artistic experience.
In summer, you can combine your visit with a bike ride from Helsinki, which also gives you the opportunity to explore the beautiful nature of Sipoo. The Gumbostrand Brewery Shop is also worth a visit, where you can discover local craft products and beers. This diverse cultural park offers its visitors an unforgettable experience for art and nature lovers.
The Sipoo Church Hill Market is a unique opportunity to discover the local culture and handicraft tradition. The market takes place on the historic Church Hill, which creates a charming atmosphere for the event. In this stunning setting, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse range of local produce and crafts.
At the market you can find a wide variety of local products and handicrafts, such as homemade pastries, handmade jewellery and traditional textiles. Through these products you can experience the richness and diversity of Sipoo's handicraft tradition. In addition, the market often offers local delicacies such as freshly baked pastries, smoked fish or other seasonal specialities to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.
The market is also a great opportunity to meet local people and get to know the community atmosphere in Sipoo. You can chat with the vendors and hear interesting stories about the origin of the products and the manufacturing process. This creates a communal and interactive experience that will enrich your visit and deepen your connection with the local culture.
The date of the market varies from year to year, so check the date of the event in advance. The market is usually held in summer or early autumn, when the weather is more favourable for an outdoor event. Bring cash, as not all vendors may have card payment facilities. Allow enough time to wander around at your leisure and enjoy the atmosphere of the market. The Sipoo Church Hill Market offers you a unique opportunity to experience local culture, craft traditions and community while enjoying the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the historic Church Hill.
Lahela Manor is a charming destination in Sipoo, where you can do some unique shopping. The farm shop offers a wide range of local delicacies and handicrafts that reflect Sipoo's rich cultural heritage. In the shop you can find fresh farm produce directly from the farm, including seasonal vegetables, fruits and berries. This guarantees freshness and quality in every product you choose.
The farm shop is also known for its quality meat products. You can buy a variety of processed meats and sausages made from the farm's own ingredients. The taste and quality of these products make them excellent souvenirs or mementos of your visit. For craft lovers, the shop is a treasure trove of unique and high-quality products made by local artisans, such as textiles, jewellery and woodwork.
The farm shop at Lahela Manor is also a great place to buy gifts. You can put together a personalised gift package of local delicacies and handicrafts to make your gift special and personal. A visit to the shop is an experience in itself, as you can admire the beautiful surroundings of the manor and feel the rural atmosphere. Remember that the shop's opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check the current opening hours before visiting to ensure the best possible shopping experience.
In Sipoo, you can enjoy a variety of dining options to suit all tastes. The range of restaurants is varied, and you're sure to find something to suit your taste. You can choose from oriental cuisine or enjoy traditional Finnish delicacies. There are also plenty of options for pizza lovers.
If you're looking for a more natural atmosphere, Restaurant Tila in Sipoonkorve offers a charming dining experience. One bakery in particular comes highly recommended by locals, whose products are said to be the best in Sipoo, if not in Finland. The bakery offers a warm and cosy atmosphere and good service.
There are also several cafés in Sipoo where you can enjoy breakfast or lunch. Many of these places offer local delicacies and homemade pastries, making your dining experience even more enjoyable. Your dining experience is often complemented by friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, so you can find places to eat both in the city centre and close to nature.
