Experience: Boat trip

Alvar Aalto Route: Curated Journeys Through Timeless Architecture

Welcome to the Alvar Aalto Route – a journey where the magic of architecture and design comes alive, inviting you to see the world through a redesigned lens. Alvar Aalto (1898–1976), the visionary of modern architecture, shaped spaces with a profoundly human approach. His creations are more than buildings; they are experiences that resonate with the soul. Scattered across Finland and beyond, they serve as gateways to a reimagined world.

In 2021, this extraordinary route was honoured with the prestigious certification as a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, affirming its role in the rich tapestry of European heritage. The Alvar Aalto Route offers more than a journey through architectural masterpieces—it extends a warm invitation to immerse yourself in a space where design, nature, and the human spirit converge in harmony.

This catalogue is your guide to a curated collection of Aalto experiences. Each package is a thoughtfully designed adventure into Alvar Aalto’s world, seamlessly blending his iconic architecture with the unique flavours of local life. From serene Finnish landscapes to vibrant European Aalto destinations, these journeys offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a devoted admirer of Aalto’s work, we warmly welcome you—and continually seek new partners to enrich the experience.

Step into spaces that defy the ordinary, where every curve, every material, and every detail tells a story that redefines how you perceive the world around you. This is the essence of the Alvar Aalto Route: an invitation to rediscover beauty, functionality, and the interconnectedness of life through the lens of one of modern architecture’s greatest minds.

Let us help you navigate this adventure and uncover how Aalto’s vision can transform not just physical spaces but also the way you view the world itself.

Download the catalogue: 
Alvar Aalto Route

Alvar Aalto – e la natura – Architectural Cruise

Welcome to experience the Alvar Aalto Cruise on Lake Päijänne. The most well-known Finnish architect Alvar Aalto used to spend his time in the beautiful Säynätsalo area where he also used to have his summer house – designed by himself of course.

During this trip you will get to know Alvar Aalto’s history and the Säynätasalo Town Hall which was designed by Aalto. Did you know that Alvar Aalto often travelled to Säynätsalo by the same boat S/S Suomi?

The steamboat s/s Suomi departs from Jyväskylä and arrives to Säynätsalo dock where the guide is waiting for you. Together with the guide you’ll find your way to the Säynätsalo Town Hall where the guide will tell you more about Aalto’s unique design. After the tour you’ll head back to Jyväskylä by local bus nro 16.

Varkaus – Alvar Aalto’s Architecture and Industrial Heritage by the Shores of Saimaa

Varkaus offers a fascinating blend of industrial heritage, Alvar Aalto’s architecture, and the serene beauty of the Saimaa lake district. This historic industrial town is where Aalto began his design work in the mid-1930s, leaving a lasting impact over the following decade. Exploring Varkaus is a unique opportunity to see how Aalto incorporated the principles of functionalism into everyday life and industrial settings.

Aalto’s contributions to Varkaus include a wide range of designs: industrial buildings, urban plans, and standardized type houses, many of which still serve as homes for local residents. The prefabricated houses produced at the Varkaus factory were distributed widely across Finland, supporting the nation’s post-war reconstruction and promoting practical, affordable living solutions. Varkaus is a testament to Aalto’s vision for a more equal and functional society.

Industrial Innovation and Excellence in Varkaus
With over 200 years of industrial history, Varkaus has cultivated expertise in a variety of fields, from ironworks and engineering to shipbuilding, wood processing, and paper production. Today, the town is also known for its cutting-edge energy technology. Part of the old industrial area has been transformed into a modern hub for aquaculture, producing environmentally friendly rainbow trout in the pristine waters of Lake Saimaa—a local specialty worth tasting.

Culture and Nature in Perfect Balance
In Varkaus, history, modern architecture, and lush nature come together in a harmonious urban landscape. The Saimaa lake district invites visitors to experience its tranquil waters and natural beauty, while local Savonian cuisine adds a delightful flavor to any visit.

A compelling addition to the town’s attractions is the Museum of Mechanical Music, where you can explore the fascinating world of mechanical music from the 19th century to the present day. This internationally renowned museum is a must-see for visitors of all ages.

In Varkaus, Alvar Aalto’s vision, industrial heritage, and the tranquility of nature combine to create a destination that captivates both architecture enthusiasts and those seeking a fresh perspective on Finnish history and culture.

Welcome to Varkaus – discover the harmony of Alvar Aalto’s design and industrial heritage by the shores of Lake Saimaa!