Loviisa

The national housing fare of 2023 was arranged in Loviisa, along a two-kilometre stretch of shoreline by the centre. The 17 one-family homes (one of them floating), some detached or semi-detached homes and a block of flats can still be seen from the outside, representing new trends in Finnish (or Nordic) housing.

Built in 1748 by the Swedes.

Built around the same time as Loviisa fortress on the island Svartholm. In the summer there is a ferry from Laivasilta a few hundred metres south of the town centre, return ferry tickets cost €15.

The road to Loviisa from the west seems to lead right into the red tile church, which is one of the most visible landmarks of the town.

Finland's oldest nuclear power plants are located on the island Hästholmen, 15 km south-east of the town centre. Visits need to be pre-arranged but you can always look at the plant from a distance.

You can admire the old preserved buildings of the former ironworks of Ruotsinpyhtää (Swedish: Strömfors), including the iconic view over the pond to the Letkutorni and Armonlinna buildings. The interiors have been turned into a museum (the lower forge), a hotel, a couple of places to eat and drink, a couple of handicraft shops, a rental service for canoes and standup paddleboards, and the old nail forge (Naulapaja) is used by an artisan blacksmith.

The only cinema in central Loviisa. The programme includes new releases as well as vintage classics, but it is nonetheless narrower than in bigger cities such as Helsinki. As well as films, the cinema hosts cultural events such as live music, stand-up comedy and a weekly pub quiz on Mondays.

The most popular beach in Loviisa, a short walk away from the city centre. Many locals and tourists come here in the summer to swim, have picnics and play games. There are changing cabins present but these are kept locked and have to be reserved in advance. There is a café at the beach serving food including tasty pancakes as well as hot and cold drinks, but no alcohol.