Åland Islands
About Åland Islands
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Language | Swedish |
| Capital | Mariehamn |
The Åland Islands, an archipelago of over 6,700 islands (60 of which are inhabited), are located halfway between Stockholm and Helsinki, in the Northern Baltic Sea. Once home to the Vikings, it came under Swedish rule in the 1100s and then under Russian rule when it was conquered in 1809. In 1921, the Åland Islands were placed under Finish sovereignty and today, they are an autonomous, self-governing and demilitarized territory of Finland. The islands are the smallest region in Finland and the only region where the only official language is Swedish.
The population of the Åland Islands is approximately 29,000 people (2018 estimate). The population is diverse, with approximately one-third of the population being born outside of the Åland Islands (from 92 different countries). The main industries of the Åland Islands are shipping, trade, banking, farming, and food production. The unemployment rate is very low at only 3.9% in 2017.
The islands are easily accessed by ferry or by air. Travel around and between the many islands can be done by car, bicycle, ferry, bus, rental car or taxi. The Åland Islands are a geographically small archipelago so most places are easily accessible; a lot can be explored in a short time.
There are 53 nature reserves on the Åland Islands, although not all can be visited. Camping and disturbing/removing the flora and fauna in the reserves is prohibited. The landscape of the islands is diverse with red granite cliffs, forests, meadows, lakes, and unique flora and fauna. The islands also have many public beaches.
With a mild climate, the greatest number of sunshine hours in the Nordic region, diverse flora and fauna, and a myriad of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, golfing, paddling, cycling, climbing, camping and skating (in the winter), the Åland Islands beckon the nature-loving traveller.
Recommended Vaccinations For Åland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine
Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis is recommended if travelling in areas where contact with ticks might occur (camping, hiking, outdoor activities).
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Recommended Medications For Åland Islands
There are no recommendations for Åland Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Åland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a risk of acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis may occur in the Aland Islands.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.
Safety & Security in Åland Islands
Personal Safety
The Aland Islands rank among the safest destinations in Europe for visitors. Violent crime is exceptionally rare, and petty crimes like theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching occur far less frequently than in more populated European regions. The capital Mariehamn maintains a secure environment where tourists can move around comfortably during both day and night. The main safety considerations stem from environmental factors rather than crime. During autumn and winter, be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly snowstorms and icy conditions that can affect outdoor activities and transportation. Ticks present a seasonal health concern in late spring and summer months, carrying potential diseases including Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. Wear protective clothing and use tick repellents when spending time in nature, and check your body thoroughly before bed. If visiting remote islands or engaging in outdoor activities, prepare appropriately and consider local guidance. The coastal areas near cruise ferry lanes present an unusual hazard where passing ships create strong currents that cause water to rise quickly then withdraw, followed by dangerous waves similar to tsunami effects.
Extreme Violence
Extreme violence poses virtually no threat to visitors in the Aland Islands. The territory has no history of terrorism incidents, and authorities consider the terrorism risk extremely low by global standards. Security measures remain actively maintained to prevent any potential threats. The islands have avoided involvement in recent conflicts or wars, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere completely free from political turmoil and military engagements. This stability stems partly from the territory’s demilitarized status, established through international treaties dating back to the 19th century, which prohibits military presence and fortifications. Incidents of physical assault or violent crime against residents or tourists are extraordinarily rare. The region consistently reports among the lowest crime rates in Europe. There are no areas where visitors need to worry about gang activity, armed violence, or aggressive confrontations. The peaceful nature of island life extends throughout the archipelago, from the capital to the smallest inhabited islands.
Political Unrest
Political stability defines the Aland Islands. The territory has maintained peaceful self-governance since 1922, with its own parliament exercising autonomy over internal affairs while remaining part of Finland. This unique political arrangement, established by the League of Nations in 1921, has functioned smoothly for over a century without significant dispute or unrest. There is no threat of political demonstrations, protests, or civil disturbances that would affect travelers. The islands have no history of political violence or regime instability. The autonomous government operates transparently with regular democratic elections every four years. Relations between the Aland authorities and the Finnish national government remain cooperative and stable. The population of approximately 30,000 residents identifies strongly with their autonomous status and Swedish-speaking heritage, but this cultural identity exists peacefully within the Finnish state framework. Visitors will find no politically sensitive areas or tensions that require special awareness or precautions.
Areas To Avoid
The Aland Islands present no dangerous zones that travelers need to avoid. Unlike many destinations, there are no neighborhoods, districts, or regions where crime concentrations or safety concerns exist. The entire archipelago maintains uniformly high safety standards from Mariehamn, the capital and largest town, to the most remote inhabited islands. All areas welcome tourists without security concerns. The main consideration when venturing to remote islands involves practical preparation rather than safety threats. Some smaller islands have limited services and facilities, so plan accordingly with appropriate supplies, communication devices, and awareness of ferry schedules. The eastern islands and more isolated skerries require extra attention to weather conditions, as services and emergency response may take longer to reach these locations. During winter, some areas may become temporarily difficult to access due to ice and snow, but this represents a logistical rather than security issue. The islands’ extensive network of 60 to 80 inhabited locations out of over 6,700 islands and skerries offers exploration opportunities throughout, with the understanding that venturing into nature requires standard outdoor safety awareness.
