A Day Trip to Kristinestad: What to See and Do

Kristinestad (in Finnish, Kristiinankaupunki) is just eight minutes by car from B&B Lapväärti, or a pleasant bike ride away. Founded in 1649, this small coastal town is one of the best-preserved wooden towns from the Swedish era in Finland, and it holds the distinction of being the first Finnish town to receive international Cittaslow status.

Cittaslow: the philosophy of slow living

The Cittaslow (Slow City) network was founded in Italy in 1999 to promote local identity, sustainable development, and quality of life. Kristinestad was the first Finnish town to join the network. In 2026, it was recognised internationally as a leading slow travel destination alongside Dubrovnik and Cortona.

The slow philosophy is tangible here. The streets were not designed for through traffic but for walking. Locals know each other by name, and the rhythm of daily life follows the seasons.

Sights

The historic wooden town centre

The grid-plan street layout of Kristinestad’s centre has remained virtually unchanged since 1649. Colourful wooden houses, narrow lanes, and intimate courtyards form a coherent historic ensemble. Kattpiskargränden is the narrowest two-way street in Finland, a mere 3 metres wide.

The Lebell Merchant House

The home of a merchant family from the 18th and 19th centuries has been preserved as a museum in its original condition. The baroque interiors, salt warehouse, and story of merchant life make it well worth a visit. Open during the summer season.

Ulrika Eleonora Church

Built in 1700, this wooden church is one of the oldest in Ostrobothnia. Inside hangs a votive ship, a sailor’s thank-offering for a safe return home.

The harbour and Korkeasaari island

The fishing village on Korkeasaari has an atmospheric quality that brings you close to the sea. In summer, archipelago boat tours depart from here, and the Pavis summer restaurant is open by the water.

Carlsro Museum

Located five kilometres from the town centre, this summer villa museum hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the summer season.

Events

Open Gates / Öppna Portar (June)

Kristinestad’s best-known event: 35 to 50 local residents open their homes, yards, and gardens to visitors. Admission is free, and the event is enormously popular. It is the single best way to experience the town from the inside. Usually held in mid-June.

Summer Market (July)

One of Finland’s most popular market events, with over 360 vendor stalls and more than 60,000 visitors. International food, handicrafts, and live music fill the town. In 2026, the dates are 10 to 12 July.

Autumn Market (September)

A family-friendly event with artisans and local producers. In 2026, held on 27 to 28 September.

Restaurants and cafes

Place	Description
Jungman (Merikatu 8)	Artisan cooking from local ingredients, sea views, sustainability-certified
Restaurant Gastro (upper square)	Lunch buffet on weekdays
Krepelin (Läntinen Pitkäkatu 8)	Historic apartment hotel in 19th-century buildings
Pavis (Korkeasaari)	Summer restaurant at the harbour
Ismon Kahvila Pub	Relaxed cafe in the town centre

Restaurants near Lapväärti

There are good options close to the B&B as well:

• Havanna Pizzeria: pizza and kebab, just a short walk from B&B Lapväärti
• Café Vonnela: cafe and lunch
• Susannes Shop & Café: gift shop and cafe
• ABC Lålby: buffet and Hesburger, a couple of kilometres away

Practical tips

• By car: 8 km, about 8 minutes from the B&B
• By bike: A flat route, roughly 30 to 40 minutes. Read the cycling guide
• Parking: Free parking in the town centre
• Best time to visit: June through August, when the museums and summer restaurants are open. Open Gates in June is an unmissable highlight.
• Suggested itinerary: Breakfast at the B&B, bike ride to Kristinestad, lunch at Jungman, a walk through the church and wooden town, then back in time for sauna

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Kristinestad is just 8 minutes from B&B Lapväärti. Book your stay and make a day trip to Finland’s first Cittaslow town.

Sources: Visit Kristinestad, Cittaslow International, Museovirasto