Photo: Julia Kivelä

4h 40min

The Aalto Route

Alvar Aalto’s (1898–1976) career as an architect and designer in Finland and abroad was exceptionally diverse and extensive. The Aalto Route follows in his footsteps, from classicism to modernism and from brick architecture to monumentalism. The route offers an insight into the cityscape and architecture of Jyväskylä.

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Information
Map
Schedule

Season

Vehicle

By car
By bike
Walking

Duration

4h 40min

Length

19.5 km

Fostering his heritage, the Alvar Aalto Museum is an excellent place to begin your journey into his creativity. The Alvar Aalto Museum building in Jyväskylä houses a specialist museum of architecture and design that serves as a national and international centre for information about Aalto. Together with the nearby Museum of Central Finland, it constitutes a fascinating cultural centre located near the heart of Jyväskylä.

The nearby Seminaarinmäki campus is one of the most beautiful and architectonically interesting university areas in Finland. After the Second World War, the university – then known as the College of Education – attracted increasing numbers of students. For this reason, it needed additional facilities and a competition by invitation was held for architects. Alvar Aalto won the competition and the buildings included in his design were completed on Seminaarinmäki, Seminar Hill, between 1951 and 1970.

From Seminaarinmäki, the route continues to the cultural and administrative block in the city centre. The block is based on a design completed by Aalto in the 1960s. The police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre were all elements included in his original design. The block is one of the four cultural and administrative centres designed by Aalto in Finland.

Located around 15 kilometres from the centre of Jyväskylä, Säynätsalo Town Hall is definitely worth visiting. One of Aalto’s most significant works, this unique building attracted attention even before its completion in 1951 and has continued to attract visitors from all over the world ever since.

You can easily get to Säynätsalo Town Hall by local bus Linkki.
Jyväskylä local transit buses 16 Muuratsalo and 21 Muurame, from stop No 5, zone A-B.
Get off at stop Ss-Kunnantalo 2. The Säynätsalo Town Hall is 250 m away.

Check out the route on Google Maps from here

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Route description

1

Aalto2 -museum center
Alvar Aallon Katu 7, 40600 Jyväskylä
2

Seminaarinmäki
Seminaarinkatu 15, 40014 Jyväskylä
3

The Administrative Block
4

City Theatre
Vapaudenkatu 36, 40100 Jyväskylä
5

Rakentajantalo
Hannikaisenkatu 17, 40100 Jyväskylä
6

Tietotalo
Kilpisenkatu 1, 40100 Jyväskylä
7

Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto
Lutakon satama, Satamakatu, 40100 Jyväskylä
8

Säynätsalo Town Hall
Parviaisentie 9, 40900 Säynätsalo

Attractions

Aalto2 -museum center

Aalto2 is a unique meeting place of architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä, in the heart of Central Finland, and it fulfils Alvar Aalto´s wish to create a forum to bring together a variety of art forms. It combines two buildings designed by Alvar Aalto: the Museum of Central Finland and the Alvar Aalto Museum. The Aalto2 Museum Centre naturally combines art and science, cultural environments, architecture, and design. The museum centre offers an interesting and multifaceted exhibition programme, as well as new events for different target groups. The Aalto2 museum center in Jyväskylä houses a specialist museum of architecture and design that serves as a national and international centre for information about Aalto. Alvar Aalto finalised his designs for the museum building in 1973. The Alvar Aalto Museum and the Museum of Central Finland (Aalto 1961) form a cultural centre in the vicinity of the University of Jyväskylä (Aalto 1951–1971).

Photo: Maija Holma
Attractions

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Museums

Aalto2

Museum centre for the new generation. Aalto2 is a unique meeting place for architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä.... Read more from destination Aalto2
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Alvar Aalto

Aalto2 (Alvar Aalto Museum, Museum of Central Finland)

Aalto2 museum center consists of two buildings designed by Alvar Aalto: the Alvar Aalto Museum (1971–1973) and the Museum of... Read more from destination Aalto2 (Alvar Aalto Museum, Museum of Central Finland)
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Cafés

Aalto2 Café

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Craft shops

Aalto2 Museum Shop

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Seminaarinmäki

Seminaarinmäki is located in the Mattilanpelto district of Jyväskylä. The Seminaarinmäki campus, the oldest campus area of the University of Jyväskylä, is often regarded as the most beautiful in Finland. New buildings were constructed on Seminaarimäki, Seminar Hill, when colleges began to attract growing numbers of students after the Second World War. Designed by Alvar Aalto, the campus buildings on Seminaarinmäki were completed between 1951 and 1970. They were modelled on the American campus concept.

Photo: Tero Takalo-Eskola
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

University of Jyväskylä

In 1951, Alvar Aalto was the winner of an invitational competition to design the expansion of the Jyväskylä College of... Read more from destination University of Jyväskylä
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The Administrative Block

In 1972, Alvar Aalto prepared a design for an administrative centre in Jyväskylä. The municipal office building, the city theatre and the former police headquarters, now known as Tietotalo, were included in his design. His original design for the administrative centre also incorporated Jyväskylä City Hall, which was completed as early as 1899. The extensive renovation of the city hall was completed in spring 2013.

photo: Alvar Aalto Museum
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)

Administrative and Cultural Center 1964- Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the... Read more from destination Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)
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Alvar Aalto

Construction office 1975-78

Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964 Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs,... Read more from destination Construction office 1975-78
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Alvar Aalto

Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)

Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964 Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs,... Read more from destination Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)
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City Theatre

The city theatre building was completed in 1982, six years after Aalto’s death. It has two stages: a main stage with 551 seats and a small stage with 98 seats. The entrance hall and foyer are open to visitors.

Photo: Tero Takalo-Eskola
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)

Administrative and Cultural Center 1964- Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the... Read more from destination Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)
Read more →

Professional theatres

Jyväskylä City Theatre

Jyväskylä City Theatre offers experiences in abundance! Our programme for spring 2015 includes the musical comedy Lainahöyhenissä (La Cage aux Folles) and... Read more from destination Jyväskylä City Theatre
Read more →
Rakentajantalo

The Rakentajantalo building was designed by Aalto to serve as a flexible office and administrative building. It is currently in office use.

Photo: Miia Haapaniemi
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Construction office 1975-78

Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964 Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs,... Read more from destination Construction office 1975-78
Read more →
Tietotalo

The former police headquarters, now known as Tietotalo, is one of the buildings included in Aalto’s original design for the administrative centre in Jyväskylä. Completed in 1970, it represented a new type of solution, as it resembled an ordinary office or city building instead of a law-enforcement building. In other words, it had a more pleasant appearance than typical police headquarters. The building is currently in office use, with the entrance hall open to visitors. You can enjoy a delicious lunch on the ground floor on weekdays.

Photo: Miia Haapaniemi
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)

Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964 Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs,... Read more from destination Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)
Read more →
Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto

A boat designed by Alvar Aalto, Nemo propheta in patria, is permanently on display at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in a shelter built expressly for the craft. The name means “Nobody is a prophet in their own land”. Alvar Aalto designed the boat to travel along with his wife Elissa Aalto to their summer villa at Muuratsalo Experimental House. The wooden craft is 10 metres long and 2.5 metres wide and was built in Säynätsalo between 1954 and 1955 by boatwright Lauri Kosola and woodworker Väinö Jokinen. The craft was completed in 1955, and its features include painted black sides, mahogany covers, and brass fittings. Shopping trips were also made with the boat and guests were hosted on board. The vessel is part of the Alvar Aalto Foundation’s design collection and has been refurbished many ways, including the restoration of its exterior surfaces and fixed furniture in addition to conservation work on the original parts. A miniature exhibition by the Alvar Aalto Museum has been set up at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in connection with the boat. The boat shelter has been designed by Sweco and its main designer has been Tapani Tommila, SAFA. WSP was responsible for the design of Satamankärki and the terrace surrounding the boat shelter.

Photo: Julia Kivelä
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto

A boat designed by Alvar Aalto, Nemo propheta in patria, is permanently on display at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in a... Read more from destination Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto
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Cafés

Dining restaurants

Catering restaurants

Sataman Viilu

In Sataman Viilu, you eat well, you can refresh yourself in the sauna, and have a party until late evening.... Read more from destination Sataman Viilu
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Cruises

Rhea Ship Lines Oy

Rhea’s summer is full of celebration! The largest cruise ship of the Lake Päijänne, m/s Rhea, operates in the archipelago... Read more from destination Rhea Ship Lines Oy
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Päijänne Cruises Hilden 

Bring the grown-ups and children on a ship cruise! Spend the best day of summer on an adventure on the... Read more from destination Päijänne Cruises Hilden 
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Cafés

Harbour Café

The Harbour Café The Jyväskylä Harbour in Lutakko is a lively and cosy place to visit, very close the city... Read more from destination Harbour Café
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Eat well

Gaia Restaurant Ship

Read more from destination Gaia Restaurant Ship
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Eat well

Paddlewheel Ship M/S Vellamo

Read more from destination Paddlewheel Ship M/S Vellamo
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Säynätsalo Town Hall

Säynätsalo Town Hall is one of Aalto’s most significant works. It was designed and constructed between 1949 and 1952. This unique building attracted attention even during its construction. It is a truly multipurpose building: as well as local administration offices and the local library, it houses flats, commercial facilities and guest rooms. Aalto wanted the town hall’s architecture to highlight its functionality. Säynätsalo Town Hall was designed for the people while also serving as an administrative centre.

Kuva: Tero Takalo-Eskola
Attractions

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Alvar Aalto

Muuratsalo experimental house (1952–54)

Alvar Aalto’s summer residence – also known as Muuratsalo Experimental House – is located on an island five kilometres from... Read more from destination Muuratsalo experimental house (1952–54)
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Alvar Aalto

Säynätsalo Town Hall (1949–52)

Constructed between 1949 and 1952, Säynätsalo Town Hall is among Alvar Aalto’s most significant works. It holds a special status... Read more from destination Säynätsalo Town Hall (1949–52)
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The Aalto Route

Destination 1 : Aalto2 -museum center

Aalto2 is a unique meeting place of architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä, in the heart of Central Finland, and it fulfils Alvar Aalto´s wish to create a forum to bring together a variety of art forms. It combines two buildings designed by Alvar Aalto: the Museum of Central Finland and the Alvar Aalto Museum. The Aalto2 Museum Centre naturally combines art and science, cultural environments, architecture, and design. The museum centre offers an interesting and multifaceted exhibition programme, as well as new events for different target groups. The Aalto2 museum center in Jyväskylä houses a specialist museum of architecture and design that serves as a national and international centre for information about Aalto. Alvar Aalto finalised his designs for the museum building in 1973. The Alvar Aalto Museum and the Museum of Central Finland (Aalto 1961) form a cultural centre in the vicinity of the University of Jyväskylä (Aalto 1951–1971).
Attractions
- Aalto2
  
  Museum centre for the new generation.
  
  Aalto2 is a unique meeting place for architecture, design and cultural heritage in Jyväskylä. It combines two buildings designed by Alvar Aalto – the Museum of Central Finland and the Alvar Aalto Museum – creating a connection between the two. The Aalto2 Museum Centre’s exhibitions and programme conduct a dialogue between current phenomena, visions of the future, and layers of history. Aalto2 Café is a café designed by Alvar Aalto, combining delicious moments with a unique atmosphere. Aalto2 Shop sells a wide range of Finnish design products and the loveliest little souvenirs.
  
  The Aalto2 Museum Centre offers the most interesting exhibition contents and a pleasant breather amidst Aalto’s architecture.
  
  The main exhibition in the summer of Aalto2 is The Pool consisting of four exhibitions that share Alvar Aalto’s architectural heritage, international skateboarding culture as well as rap and hip hop culture. The Pool can be experienced from 18 May to 15 September 2024.
  
  We accept the Museum Card.
- Aalto2 (Alvar Aalto Museum, Museum of Central Finland)
  
  Aalto2 museum center consists of two buildings designed by Alvar Aalto: the Alvar Aalto Museum (1971–1973) and the Museum of Central Finland (1956–1961, 1991), with an adjoining gallery. Opened in May 2023, the new space includes a museum shop and an open venue. The new part was designed by Arkkitehtitoimisto A-Konsultit Oy.
  
  Museum of Central Finland (1957–61, 1991)
  
  The Museum of Central Finland serves as the city museum of Jyväskylä and the provincial museum of Central Finland. This white plastered building was completed in 1961, in accordance with Aalto’s designs. The museum was renovated and an extension was added between 1988 and 1990, designed by Alvar Aalto & Co, Architects. Since then, the overall appearance and environment of the building have changed considerably. The most recent renovation took place in 2017-2020.
  
  Alvar Aalto Museum (1971–73)
  
  The Alvar Aalto Museum is located on a slope by Lake Jyväsjärvi, next to the University of Jyväskylä and the Museum of Central Finland. The first plans for the museum building were completed in 1970. Alvar Aalto finalised his designs in 1973. The area of the museum had to be reduced because of limited financial resources. In accordance with the original designs, the exhibition space on the first floor is divided into areas with movable partitions. The highest part of the hall has slatted pine panels on the walls, resembling the wall structure of Finland’s pavilion at the New York World Fair, designed by Aalto in 1939. All furniture in the museum is designed by Aalto. The facade is built of white Halla bricks manufactured by Arabia and embellished by porcelain strips. The main doors have a copper surface and brass handles designed by Aalto. For a long time, the museum specialised in architecture and visual arts. Today, it focuses on fostering the heritage of Alvar Aalto.
  
  The Alvar Aalto Museum and the Museum of Central Finland (Aalto 1961) constitute a cultural centre next to the University of Jyväskylä (Aalto 1951–1971). The museum buildings represent what is known as Aalto’s white period, but differ in appearance and scale from other monumental buildings of the same time. The buildings were constructed ten years apart, which is particularly evident in their facades. The rectangular facade of the Museum of Central Finland reflects the geometric practicality of early functionalism, while the Alvar Aalto Museum represents a more closed design, but a less restricted expression of form. In the early 1990s, an extension was added to the Museum of Central Finland in Ruusupuisto Park, in accordance with designs made by Elissa Aalto.
  
  More information of pricing and the opening times:
  
  Hours, admission and directions – Aalto2
- Aalto2 Café
- Aalto2 Museum Shop
Destination 2 : Seminaarinmäki

Seminaarinmäki is located in the Mattilanpelto district of Jyväskylä. The Seminaarinmäki campus, the oldest campus area of the University of Jyväskylä, is often regarded as the most beautiful in Finland. New buildings were constructed on Seminaarimäki, Seminar Hill, when colleges began to attract growing numbers of students after the Second World War. Designed by Alvar Aalto, the campus buildings on Seminaarinmäki were completed between 1951 and 1970. They were modelled on the American campus concept.
Attractions
- University of Jyväskylä
  
  In 1951, Alvar Aalto was the winner of an invitational competition to design the expansion of the Jyväskylä College of Education. The competition included not only several new buildings, but a comprehensive plan for the layout of the campus. Aalto’s plan, called URBS, received credit for integrating the proposed buildings in the environment, as well as preserving more of the existing campus structures than competing proposals. In several stages over the 1950s, the campus saw the completion of a new main building, a library, cafeteria and conference buildings, a residential hall, two gyms, a swimming pool, a staff residence, and a heating plant. Apart from these buildings, all clad in red brick, the plan included a sports field, greeneries and pathways, as well as several ceremonial courtyards including the so-called Alvar Plaza.
  
  The layout and design of the are based on the idea of an American-style campus. The campus was further complemented by an expanded swimming pool and a student house, completed in 1964 and 1965 respectively. Finally, the Faculty of Sports building, distinctive in its white plaster exterior, was completed in 1971 to delimit the campus area in the south.
  
  Opening hours:
  
  University of Jyväskylä is open during the academic year.
  
  Read more about AaltoAlvari and its opening hours here.
  
  Read more about Campus Restaurant Lozzi’s opening hours here.
Destination 3 : The Administrative Block

In 1972, Alvar Aalto prepared a design for an administrative centre in Jyväskylä. The municipal office building, the city theatre and the former police headquarters, now known as Tietotalo, were included in his design. His original design for the administrative centre also incorporated Jyväskylä City Hall, which was completed as early as 1899. The extensive renovation of the city hall was completed in spring 2013.
Attractions
- Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)
  
  Administrative and Cultural Center 1964-
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  City theatre, opening hours:
  
  The entrance hall and foyer are open to visitors. Please note! The Theatre House is currently under renovation and is completely closed to visitors. The Theatre House will reopen in autumn 2026.
  
  Enquiries: box office, tel. (014) 266 0110, [email protected]
  
  Jyväskylä City Theatre | Jyväskylä.fi (jklteatteri.fi)
- Construction office 1975-78
  
  Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  Construction office, opening hours:
  
  In office use, entrance hall open to visitors
- Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)
  
  Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  Poliisitalo (Tietotalo), opening hours:
  
  In office use, entrance hall open to visitors.
Destination 4 : City Theatre

The city theatre building was completed in 1982, six years after Aalto’s death. It has two stages: a main stage with 551 seats and a small stage with 98 seats. The entrance hall and foyer are open to visitors.
Attractions
- Jyväskylä City Theatre (1964–82)
  
  Administrative and Cultural Center 1964-
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  City theatre, opening hours:
  
  The entrance hall and foyer are open to visitors. Please note! The Theatre House is currently under renovation and is completely closed to visitors. The Theatre House will reopen in autumn 2026.
  
  Enquiries: box office, tel. (014) 266 0110, [email protected]
  
  Jyväskylä City Theatre | Jyväskylä.fi (jklteatteri.fi)
- Jyväskylä City Theatre
  
  Jyväskylä City Theatre offers experiences in abundance! Our programme for spring 2015 includes the musical comedy Lainahöyhenissä (La Cage aux Folles) and a new interpretation of the classic Niskavuoren naiset (The
  Women of Niskavuori). Life’s norms are given a comprehensive – and humorous – shake-up in the drama Yksi lensi yli käenpesän (One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest). On the small stage country-dweller Jason’s life change is explored in Pieni raha (Small Money) written by Sirkku Peltola. In March we introduce a production with enduring family appeal: the classic fairy tale Prinsessa Ruusunen (Sleeping Beauty). Please see our website for up-to-theminute information on productions and performances.
Destination 5 : Rakentajantalo

The Rakentajantalo building was designed by Aalto to serve as a flexible office and administrative building. It is currently in office use.
Attractions
- Construction office 1975-78
  
  Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  Construction office, opening hours:
  
  In office use, entrance hall open to visitors
Destination 6 : Tietotalo

The former police headquarters, now known as Tietotalo, is one of the buildings included in Aalto’s original design for the administrative centre in Jyväskylä. Completed in 1970, it represented a new type of solution, as it resembled an ordinary office or city building instead of a law-enforcement building. In other words, it had a more pleasant appearance than typical police headquarters. The building is currently in office use, with the entrance hall open to visitors. You can enjoy a delicious lunch on the ground floor on weekdays.
Attractions
- Central police station (1970) (Tietotalo)
  
  Administrative and cultural centre, from 1964
  
  Alvar Aalto also prepared designs for the city centre of Jyväskylä. Of these designs, the police headquarters, municipal office building and city theatre have been implemented. The second phase of the administrative centre, which also includes a sculptural council tower, remains to be carried out. Aalto’s designs include a “people’s square” between the tower, theatre and old town hall.
  
  Poliisitalo (Tietotalo), opening hours:
  
  In office use, entrance hall open to visitors.
Destination 7 : Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto

A boat designed by Alvar Aalto, Nemo propheta in patria, is permanently on display at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in a shelter built expressly for the craft. The name means “Nobody is a prophet in their own land”. Alvar Aalto designed the boat to travel along with his wife Elissa Aalto to their summer villa at Muuratsalo Experimental House. The wooden craft is 10 metres long and 2.5 metres wide and was built in Säynätsalo between 1954 and 1955 by boatwright Lauri Kosola and woodworker Väinö Jokinen. The craft was completed in 1955, and its features include painted black sides, mahogany covers, and brass fittings. Shopping trips were also made with the boat and guests were hosted on board. The vessel is part of the Alvar Aalto Foundation’s design collection and has been refurbished many ways, including the restoration of its exterior surfaces and fixed furniture in addition to conservation work on the original parts. A miniature exhibition by the Alvar Aalto Museum has been set up at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in connection with the boat. The boat shelter has been designed by Sweco and its main designer has been Tapani Tommila, SAFA. WSP was responsible for the design of Satamankärki and the terrace surrounding the boat shelter.
Attractions
- Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto
  
  A boat designed by Alvar Aalto, Nemo propheta in patria, is permanently on display at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in a shelter built expressly for the craft. The name means “Nobody is a prophet in their own land”.
  
  Alvar Aalto designed the boat to travel along with his wife Elissa Aalto to their summer villa at Muuratsalo Experimental House. The wooden craft is 10 metres long and 2.5 metres wide and was built in Säynätsalo between 1954 and 1955 by boatwright Lauri Kosola and woodworker Väinö Jokinen. The craft was completed in 1955, and its features include painted black sides, mahogany covers, and brass fittings. Shopping trips were also made with the boat and guests were hosted on board.
  
  The vessel is part of the Alvar Aalto Foundation’s design collection and has been refurbished many ways, including the restoration of its exterior surfaces and fixed furniture in addition to conservation work on the original parts. A miniature exhibition by the Alvar Aalto Museum has been set up at Jyväskylä’s Lutakko Harbour in connection with the boat.
  
  The boat shelter has been designed by Sweco and its main designer has been Tapani Tommila, SAFA. WSP was responsible for the design of Satamankärki and the terrace surrounding the boat shelter.
- Sataman Viilu
  
  In Sataman Viilu, you eat well, you can refresh yourself in the sauna, and have a party until late evening.
  
  We serve carefully planned and yet simple food. We serve from breakfast to dinner, respect Finnish products and cover the table with genuine tastes in a relaxed way — without compromising on quality.
  
  Our sauna world includes three saunas which are kept warm around the clock. Our saunas are mixed saunas. From our saunas, you can go to the sheltered terrace to get chilled, to sunbathe and take a dip in the lake or jacuzzis, both in the summer and in the winter.
  
  Our gorgeous facilities on the second floor can be transformed into many kinds of parties and meetings. We welcome both company guests and private individuals.
  
  You will find us in the port of Jyväskylä, close to the City Centre and Travel Centre.
- Rhea Ship Lines Oy
  
  Rhea’s summer is full of celebration!
  
  The largest cruise ship of the Lake Päijänne, m/s Rhea, operates in the archipelago of the Northern Päijänne from May until the end of August. See all the cruise timetables.
  
  Rhea has three restaurants: a sun terrace, à la carte restaurant and an atmospheric late- night restaurant. All à la carte dishes and buffet food portions are being prepared in the ship’s own kitchen. Rhea is perfect for festival celebrations and corporate events, which all are planned together with the customer. An unforgettable sauna evening is crowned by a panorama sauna with a private terrace for 10 persons. Msrhea.fi web pages provide you with information on the recommended menus, theme-based cruises, cruise timetables along with spring and autumn cruises.
  
  Rhea has a licence to serve alcoholic beverages. M/s Rhea 199 persons.
  
  You are welcome to stay with us!
- Päijänne Cruises Hilden 
  
  Bring the grown-ups and children on a ship cruise!
  Spend the best day of summer on an adventure on the waves of Päijänne.   
  
  We offer cruises suitable for families with children every day – Lunch cruises on Höyrylaiva or on Suomen Suvi. On board, have lunch at the chef’s buffet where children will find delicacies they love. The captain always welcomes the children and they can also complete the “Star Captain’ diploma if they so choose.  
  
  Another great way for families to travel nearby is to take a boat trip on the Keitele canal boat route; the Three Canals route Jyväskylä-Kuusaa or the Five Canals route Jyväskylä-Äänekoski. You can also make partial trips on the route trip.
  
  Päijänne Cruises Hilden 
  
  you can bring your own baby food. 
  
  we also sell summer delicacies for children: ice cream, sweets and soft drinks. 
  
  you can bring a pushchair. 
  
  it is safe for children to move on board, but there are always rules when on board: the instructions of the ship’s personnel must be followed and running on board is not allowed.  
  
  please notify us of any special diets in advance. 
- Harbour Café
  
  The Harbour Café
  
  The Jyväskylä Harbour in Lutakko is a lively and cosy place to visit, very close the city centre of Jyväskylä. The Harbour Café serves both salty and sweet baked goods, coffee, loose ice cream and other refreshments. The Café has a licence to serve alcoholic beverages. The Café serves visitors and guest boaters in summer at 8am onwards.
  
  In the Café, there is WLAN available for use and you can also hire boating equipment and bicycles there. In the winter season, you can hire touring skates, kick sledges and snowshoes.
  
  In the service facilities, there are toilets, showers and laundry room along with waste containers available for the guest boaters. Services available at the boaters’ service and maintenance quay include fuel and water supply, emptying septic tank and bilge suction. The berth price is 15 euros/day. The berth licences are available against payment in the Harbour Café. There is no advance booking, berths will be filled in and given in order of arrival.
  
  Click on opening hours here.
- Gaia Restaurant Ship
  
  The Restaurant Ship Gaia
  
  The Restaurant Ship Gaia, with its genuine and magic schooner atmosphere and the scent of tar, serves you in the Jyväskylä Harbour every day of the summer season. Gaia’s restaurant is open from 12.00 noon onwards, weather permitting. Come and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere on the sunny terrace with some snacks, sundaes and refreshments. Information on visiting performers, barbeque evenings and other Gaia events is available here.
  
  The atmospheric Bar Kuunari is located on the lower deck of Gaia. Gaia’s Bar Kuunari can be booked for private events of your own group. The Bar Kuunari is ideally suited to lunch and evening events with 15–40 persons. In addition, the Restaurant Ship Gaia provides a wonderful setting for arranging corporate events, meetings or even a popular breakfast meeting.
  
  You are welcome to stay with us!
- Paddlewheel Ship M/S Vellamo
Destination 8 : Säynätsalo Town Hall

Säynätsalo Town Hall is one of Aalto’s most significant works. It was designed and constructed between 1949 and 1952. This unique building attracted attention even during its construction. It is a truly multipurpose building: as well as local administration offices and the local library, it houses flats, commercial facilities and guest rooms. Aalto wanted the town hall’s architecture to highlight its functionality. Säynätsalo Town Hall was designed for the people while also serving as an administrative centre.
Attractions
- Säynätsalo Town Hall (1949–52)
  
  Constructed between 1949 and 1952, Säynätsalo Town Hall is among Alvar Aalto’s most significant works. It holds a special status in the history of twentieth-century architecture. This unique building attracted attention even at the construction stage. Since completion, the building has attracted visitors from all over the world: groups of students and architects as well as individual visitors. Today, about 3,000–4,000 people visit the site every year. Some say that the town hall has made Säynätsalo the best-known island in Finland internationally.
  
  An invitational competition was held for the design of Säynätsalo Town Hall in 1949. Aalto created a distinctive monument for the small municipality of Säynätsalo. This castle-like red brick building has an elevated courtyard with entrances to the administrative offices and the library. Located higher than the rest of the building, the council chamber dominates the area. The building also has apartments and commercial facilities, some of which have been converted for other purposes. Aalto monitored the construction of the town hall with great care. It is regarded as one of his main works. Source: Alvar Aalto Museum
  
  Pricing and opening times:
  
  Entrance fee 10 €/ 6 € (students, seniors, unemployed). Scheduled general guides are included in the entrance fee.
  
  Please make a reservation by sending email [email protected] or call +358 46 582 1060 or buy an entrance ticket or private guidance from the web store.
  
  More information of pricing and the opening times: www.tavolobianco.com/
  
  Read more information of accommodation in Säynätsalo Town Hall.
  
  Arriving with a charter bus:
  
  Arriving to the new charter bus stop is easy by driving along Parviaisentie clockwise to the new stop. This way there is no need to reverse at the town hall.
  
  Bus connections:
  
  Buses 16, 16M and 21 from local transport terminal at Asemakatu 4 to Säynätsalo every half an hour.
  
  Taxi:
  
  Säynätsalo town hall can be easily reached by taxi. Ask JYTAKSI for more information.
- Muuratsalo experimental house (1952–54)
  
  Alvar Aalto’s summer residence – also known as Muuratsalo Experimental House – is located on an island five kilometres from Säynätsalo Town Hall. Its courtyard is enclosed by two residential wings and a brick wall. In the south, the brick wall has an opening with a view of Lake Päijänne. The guest room wing and woodshed are located behind the main building, in line with a slope of rock. When designing Muuratsalo Experimental House, Aalto experimented with various materials, techniques, forms and dimensions. He also intended to try solar heating.
  
  Opening hours:
  
  Closed during the winter season. Entrance to the area is only permitted in the company of a guide.
  
  Please buy the tickets well in advance from https://aalto2.museum/en/tuotteet/muuratsalo-experimental-house/ or by contacting the Aalto2 -Museum, tel. +358 44 790 9827 or e-mail: [email protected].
  
  Source: Aalto2 -Museum
  
  Photos: Tero Takalo-Eskola

The Aalto Route

Route description

Attractions

Aalto2 -museum center

Attractions

Seminaarinmäki

Attractions

The Administrative Block

Attractions

City Theatre

Attractions

Rakentajantalo

Attractions

Tietotalo

Attractions

Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto

Attractions

Säynätsalo Town Hall

Attractions

More tours

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6 Day Finnish Lakeland Summer Itinerary – with public transport

Säynätsalo and Muuratsalo scenic tour

Bike Journey to Alvar Aalto

Statue tour on Jyväskylä Rantaraitti

Summertime route with children in the Jyväskylä Region

City of Light Route

Top 8 Public Saunas in the Jyväskylä Region

5-Day Finnish Lakeland Winter Itinerary

The Aalto Route

Destination 1 : Aalto2 -museum center

Attractions

Destination 2 : Seminaarinmäki

Attractions

Destination 3 : The Administrative Block

Attractions

Destination 4 : City Theatre

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Destination 5 : Rakentajantalo

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Destination 6 : Tietotalo

Attractions

Destination 7 : Nemo Propheta In Patria (1954-55), a boat designed by Alvar Aalto

Attractions

Destination 8 : Säynätsalo Town Hall

Attractions

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