Vaasa, founded in the 1300s, was a significant town when Sweden ruled over Finland. The ancient village was relocated six kilometres to the northwest, next to a better harbour, after it burned and was destroyed in 1852. The former city’s ruins are now a vast park (Vanha Vaasa, Gamla Vasa).
The town still has strong ties to Sweden and speaks Swedish at a rate of roughly 34%. The vast marketplace, surrounded by a diverse selection of cafes, eateries, and stores, serves as the hub of city activity. There are numerous attractions in this tranquil village. The waterfront, which starts in town and stretches for kilometres down the coast, is accessible to visitors for strolling.
Additional attractions include the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art and the Ostrobothnian Museum, both of which are situated by the harbour.
Tropicana & Tropical Spa is a waterpark housed inside a heated dome located on an island just to the east of the city’s core and packed with pools, slides, and saunas. The famous Söderfjärden crater, created by meteor millions of years ago, is located south of Vaasa. The Kvarken National Park is a natural archipelago to the north that offers many fantastic walks and bird-watching opportunities.
The Korsholm Music Festival is one of the most renowned chamber music festivals. The Night of the Arts and the Vaasa Choir Festival are just a few of the major cultural events that Vaasa is home to. According to claims, Vaasa is the sunniest town in all of Finland.