Adventure awaits: Top3 day trip destinations by public transport

Jyväskylä and the surrounding region offer numerous interesting travel destinations, many of which can be explored on foot or by public transport. The local transport system, Linkki, takes you around Jyväskylä, as well as to nearby municipalities such as Äänekoski, Hankasalmi, Toivakka, Muurame, Laukaa, and Petäjävesi. By purchasing a day pass from the ticket sales on Asemakatu or loading it onto the Linkki App, you can easily and smoothly move from one destination to another. We have listed three destinations for your summer adventures that you can reach without your own car.

Photo: Julia Kivelä

National Parks with Outdoor Express busses

Set out to experience the wonders of nature with direct national park buses. Operating on summer weekends, the buses offer a quick connection to three national parks on alternating weekends.

In Pyhä-Häkki National Park, you can sense the mystique of ancient forests, while Southern Konnevesi National Park charms with its rugged cliffs and clear waters. Leivonmäki National Park, on the other hand, invites hikers to explore its diverse bogs and forests on easy-to-navigate trails that are also suitable for the little ones in the family.

Outdoor Express makes reaching these natural destinations easy and effortless. Departing in the morning from Jyväskylä Travel Center, the transport returns to the city by evening. If you wish, you can pack a tent and camp in the national park or take advantage of the accommodation services available along the route.

Tickets are sold by Matkahuolto and VR ticket shops as a connecting bus for your train ticket.

Kuva: Tero Takalo-Eskola

Tracking Aalto’s Footsteps in the Unique and Atmospheric Säynätsalo

The unique and atmospheric island district of Jyväskylä is comprised of three main islands: Säynätsalo, Lehtisaari, and Muuratsalo. Päijänne and its landscapes are close no matter which direction you head.

Säynätsalo Town Hall is a favorite destination for architecture enthusiasts. Designed by Alvar Aalto, the building is located about 15 kilometers from the center of Jyväskylä and is conveniently accessible by buses number 16, 16M, and 21 directly from Asemakatu in the city center. From the town hall, it’s a short walk to the Säynätsalo harbor, where the restaurant Juurikkasaari serves delicious food right on the shores of Lake Päijänne. On a hot day, you can indulge in ice cream and take a refreshing dip straight from the pier. Concerts and public sauna sessions are also held in the harbor area during the summer.

On the western shore of Muuratsalo Island, on the beautiful cliffside of Lake Päijänne, is the Experimental House designed by Alvar and Elissa Aalto for themselves. This unique studio and summer residence, built in 1952-1953, is a true gem of architecture. The Experimental House combines features of an ancient atrium house with modern design, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Aalto’s experimental architecture. Guided tours are arranged for the house, so remember to book yours in advance.

You can also add a visit to Paljaspää’s lookout point to your excursion day, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Päijänne. The easy nature trail is about 2 km long and can be walked without special hiking equipment. However, it’s advisable to wear sneakers.

Photo: Anne Kalliola

Unesco Petäjävesi Old Church: A Masterpiece of Wooden Architecture

The UNESCO World Heritage Site Petäjävesi Old Church is a magnificent example of Nordic wooden church architecture. This church, carved by Central Finnish peasants between 1763 and 1765, enchants its visitors with its unique atmosphere and history. The church’s beautiful log walls and detailed wood carvings tell a story from past centuries. Petäjävesi Old Church is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of Finland’s cultural heritage. In the summer, the church is open to visitors, and guided tours offer an in-depth look into the building’s history.

Right next to the church is the Lementtilä farm. This old idyllic farm offers accommodation, and in the summer, visitors are served by a barn café. The barn café is open with limited hours, so we recommend checking the opening times in advance. The services in the center of Petäjävesi are only 1 km away. You can have lunch daily at Kyläseppä, and souvenirs can be found at Direct Sales Heinähattu.

You can reach Petäjävesi by bus or train.

TIP: You can continue your journey from Petäjävesi to Keuruu and explore the surroundings of Keuruu Old Church and the Old Keuruu on the same trip.

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