EuropeMariehamnAland Islands eSIM and Travel Guide: Stay Connected in Mariehamn and the Archipelago
The Aland Islands are a Swedish-speaking autonomous archipelago between Finland and Sweden with excellent 4G and expanding 5G coverage in Mariehamn and the main islands, served primarily by local operator Alcom with Telia Finland roaming support. As an EU territory but outside the EU VAT area, roaming rules are complex for some carriers. A Roamix Aland Islands eSIM gives you reliable connectivity across Mariehamn and the main island chains. Budget 3 to 5 GB for a week, and download offline maps of the outer skerry routes before heading to the remote islands by boat.
Key Takeaways
- Alcom is the primary local network operator, offering 4G LTE across all inhabited islands and 5G in Mariehamn.
- A Roamix eSIM activates on arrival and works across the main islands without roaming complications from home-carrier pricing.
- The Aland Islands are an EU territory but outside the EU VAT area, so not all EU roaming agreements apply predictably.
- Ferries from Turku and Stockholm stop at Mariehamn and Langnas, with onboard wifi available on major Viking Line and Tallink Silja vessels.
- Cache offline maps before visiting the outer archipelago by boat or kayak, as remote skerries have no signal.
Quick Facts
Aland Islands Connectivity
Get a Roamix Aland Islands eSIM and arrive in Mariehamn already connected.
How to Stay Connected in Aland Islands
Free wifi is available in Mariehamn hotels, cafes and the ferry terminals. Coverage stops at the buildings and is patchy outside the capital. Mobile data via Roamix is more reliable for cycling and island-hopping.
Option
Best For
Notes
RecommendedRoamix eSIM
Most travellers
Activates on Alcom's network on arrival, no physical SIM to source and no roaming complications from home-carrier Aland Islands pricing.
EU SIM card from Finland or Sweden
Travellers already with Finnish or Swedish SIMs
EU Roam Like At Home may apply, though Aland Islands status can be inconsistent. Check with your operator before relying on this.
Pocket wifi
Groups sharing a connection
Another device to charge and carry. Less practical for cycling routes where a single phone is preferred.
Carrier roaming
Very short visits with no setup time
Can be expensive depending on your home carrier's treatment of the Aland Islands. Confirm pricing before relying on roaming.
For most visitors to the Aland Islands, a Roamix eSIM gives reliable connectivity across Mariehamn and the main islands with no pricing surprises.
Get connected the moment you land in Aland Islands.
Get your Aland Islands eSIMMobile Networks in Aland Islands
The Aland Islands are served by Alcom (Alands Telekommunikation Ab), the local archipelago operator, which provides 4G LTE across all inhabited islands and 5G in the capital Mariehamn. Telia Finland also provides coverage under roaming agreements. A Roamix Aland Islands eSIM connects to the strongest available network, keeping you online in Mariehamn's maritime old town and across the main island chain.
The archipelago's dedicated local operator with 4G LTE across all inhabited islands, 5G in Mariehamn, and the longest-standing coverage of the remote outer skerries.
Available on roaming agreements and provides a secondary network option in the main island, particularly useful on the eastern approaches from mainland Finland.
Typical Speeds
50 to 100 Mbps on 4G LTE in Mariehamn, 20 to 50 Mbps on outer island routes.
5G Status
5G is live in Mariehamn and expanding to major population centres on the main island.
Alcom gives you the best local coverage in Mariehamn and on the main inhabited islands. For island-hopping by ferry or boat, download your archipelago navigation charts and accommodation details over data in Mariehamn before you leave the dock.
The outer archipelago islands, uninhabited skerries and remote kayaking routes east of the main island have very limited or no coverage. In these areas, even Alcom's network drops out completely. Download offline maps before taking any boat trip into the outer island chains.
Alcom operates on standard European LTE bands including Band 3 (1800 MHz) and Band 20 (800 MHz), compatible with virtually all modern unlocked smartphones.
Data Usage Guide
Data needs in the Aland Islands are modest for most visitors, focused on navigation, ferry schedules and accommodation communication. Outdoor activities on the outer islands require offline preparation.
Download the full archipelago map pack for the Aland Islands in Google Maps or a cycling app before leaving Mariehamn, as outer islands have no signal.
Data by Activity
Light Use
2 to 3 GB
Three day city break in Mariehamn
Navigation, social media, restaurant bookings and museum information in the capital.
Standard
4 to 5 GB
Week-long cycling and island-hopping trip
Cycling navigation, ferry schedule checking, offline map downloads and accommodation communication across multiple islands.
Heavy Use
10 GB or more
Remote work stay in Mariehamn
Video calls, cloud uploads and tethering alongside sightseeing, where hotel wifi is supplemented by mobile data.
Apps & Internet Freedom
The Aland Islands have a fully open internet. All common apps work normally on a Roamix eSIM.
There are no internet censorship or platform restrictions in the Aland Islands. No VPN is required for any service.
Fully available for messaging and calls.
FaceTime
Works normally over data and wifi.
Google Maps and Search
No restrictions. Download the archipelago offline map package before heading into the outer islands.
Social media
Instagram, X, TikTok and Facebook all work without restriction.
How to Set Up a Aland Islands eSIM
Install your Roamix Aland Islands eSIM over wifi before departure. It activates when you connect to Alcom's network in Mariehamn or on the first island, whether arriving by ferry from Turku or Stockholm or by air at Mariehamn Airport.
Works on eSIM-capable devices including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The device must be carrier unlocked.
- 1
Purchase your Roamix Aland Islands eSIM plan before departure.
- 2
Scan the QR code or tap to install the eSIM over a wifi connection.
- 3
Label the eSIM line 'Roamix' and keep your home SIM as the primary line.
- 4
Enable data roaming on the Roamix line only.
- 5
Arrive in Mariehamn or on the main island and the eSIM connects to Alcom automatically.
APN Note
Roamix sets the correct APN automatically. If data does not start, apply the APN from your activation email and toggle airplane mode.
Troubleshooting
If data does not connect, confirm data roaming is on for the Roamix line, manually select Alcom in network settings and restart.
Get connected the moment you land in Aland Islands.
Get your Aland Islands eSIMArrival Checklist
Confirm your Roamix eSIM has connected to the Alcom network before leaving the ferry terminal or airport.
Download the Aland Islands offline map package in Google Maps or Maps.me before heading beyond Mariehamn.
Pick up an archipelago ferry timetable from the Mariehamn tourist office on Storagatan for island-hopping routes.
Exchange a small amount of euros if you plan to visit farm shops or remote island cafes that may not accept cards.
Check the weather forecast for your archipelago days, as Baltic weather changes quickly and boat services can be cancelled.
How locals communicate
Locals communicate in Swedish and use a mix of WhatsApp, iMessage and standard SMS. English is spoken widely in Mariehamn and by tourism staff across the islands.
Keep your home SIM active for SMS two-factor authentication while using the Roamix eSIM for data.
Airports in Aland Islands
Mariehamn Airport
Mariehamn
The small regional airport has wifi available in the terminal. Coverage is adequate for downloading maps and checking ferry connections before heading into town.
The airport is only 3 km from central Mariehamn. Activate your Roamix eSIM on the approach and use it to navigate to your accommodation and check the archipelago ferry timetable.
Turku Airport (ferry gateway to Aland)
Turku, Finland (ferry to Mariehamn, approx 2.5 hours)
Free wifi throughout TKU terminal. Finnish DNA and Elisa 4G are strong at the airport. The Viking Line and Tallink Silja ferry terminals in Turku are 15 minutes from TKU.
Most Aland visitors travel via the Turku to Mariehamn ferry. Install your Roamix eSIM at TKU over terminal wifi before boarding the overnight or daytime crossing. The eSIM hands off to Telia Finland on the Finnish side and connects to Telia Finland roaming on Aland.
Visa & Entry for Aland Islands
The Aland Islands are an autonomous territory of Finland and part of the EU, so EU citizens and nationalities exempt from EU Schengen visas can enter freely. The islands are outside the EU VAT area, giving them limited tax-free shopping rights.
eVisa / ETA
No separate visa or eTA is required for the Aland Islands. Standard Schengen visa rules apply as the territory is entered via Finnish or Swedish borders. Most nationalities requiring a Schengen visa can apply through Finland.
Passport validity
Your passport or EU ID card should be valid for the duration of your stay. At least three months of validity beyond departure is recommended.
Onward ticket
No onward ticket requirement for EU and Schengen nationals. Non-EU visitors may be asked to show proof of onward travel.
Have your ferry e-tickets and any accommodation confirmations saved on your phone before boarding. Use your Roamix eSIM to access tickets and maps during the crossing.
Entry requirements follow Finnish and EU rules. Confirm current Schengen visa requirements at the Finnish Immigration Service at migri.fi before booking.
Get connected the moment you land in Aland Islands.
Get your Aland Islands eSIMMoney & Payments in Aland Islands
The euro is the official currency. Card payments are accepted in Mariehamn and most tourist businesses. Carry a small amount of cash for remote farm shops, island cafes and market stalls.
Cash vs Card
Cards are accepted nearly everywhere in Mariehamn and at ferry terminals. Some outer island farms and small cafes are cash only, so carry 20 to 30 euros in small notes.
ATMs
ATMs are available in Mariehamn's town centre. No ATMs exist on the outer islands. Withdraw euros before leaving the main island.
Payment Apps
Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted in major Mariehamn shops and cafes. Local banks use Finnish banking apps for transfers.
Daily Budget
Budget travellers can manage around 80 to 100 euros a day. Mid-range visitors spending on ferries, cycling hire and restaurants should budget 120 to 180 euros.
Data cost: A Roamix plan for the Aland Islands costs a fraction of international carrier roaming, which can be high for non-EU or non-Finnish SIM cards.
Getting Around Aland Islands
The Aland Islands are best explored by bicycle and free inter-island ferry. The main island is compact and flat, with a comprehensive cycling network. Outer archipelago routes require the free state ferries or chartered boats.
Cycling
The main island has over 200 km of cycling routes marked on detailed maps. Use Roamix data for live navigation and offline maps for the quieter farm tracks between villages.
Free archipelago ferries
The Aland government operates a network of free ferries connecting the outer islands. Download the ferry timetable over Roamix data in Mariehamn before island-hopping, as schedules are seasonal and limited.
Baltic cruise ferries
Viking Line and Tallink Silja ferries from Turku, Helsinki and Stockholm stop at Mariehamn and Langnas. Both companies offer onboard wifi, though speeds vary. Your Roamix eSIM works better than onboard wifi for personal connectivity.
Local buses and taxis
Local bus routes serve the main island villages. Taxis are available in Mariehamn. Book via phone or local apps using your Roamix data connection.
Regions & Travel
The Aland Islands reward slow travel. The main island around Mariehamn is compact and cycling-friendly, while the outer archipelago requires ferry hopping between hundreds of skerries. A Roamix eSIM keeps ferry schedules, accommodation confirmations and navigation working across the islands.
Best time to visit: Late May to August for long summer days, warm sea temperatures and all ferry routes operating. June for the midsummer celebrations. September for quieter island atmosphere and golden light on the sea.
Mariehamn and the Main Island
The capital Mariehamn is a charming wooden harbour town with a maritime museum, the sailing ship Pommern, a pedestrian high street and ferry connections to both Finland and Sweden. Most of the island's cycling routes radiate from here.
Signal: Excellent 4G LTE and 5G coverage across Mariehamn and the main island roads. Alcom covers the entire municipality reliably.
Sund and the Eastern Archipelago
The eastern part of the main island features Kastelholm Castle, a preserved medieval fortress beside a lake, and the Aland Viking era sites at Kvarnbo. The Bomarsund fortress ruins from 1854 are a highlight of Baltic history.
Signal: Good 4G coverage along the main roads through Sund and Saltvik. Remote farm roads and coastal paths may have weaker signal.
Lemland and Lumparland
The southern parishes south of Mariehamn, connected by the free ferry over the Lemstrom Canal, offer quiet cycling routes through forests, traditional red farmhouses and access to the ferry crossing to Foglo.
Signal: Alcom 4G covers the main roads. The Lemstrom Canal and ferry crossing areas have good coverage.
Foglo and the Outer Skerry Archipelago
The outer archipelago islands of Foglo, Koko and beyond are reached by free inter-island ferries and offer increasingly remote fishing culture, seabird colonies and the classic Aland experience of sea, sky and silence.
Signal: Coverage thins significantly beyond Foglo's main village. Remote skerries and outer islands have no reliable signal on any network. Download all maps and ferry schedules in Mariehamn before departing.
Geta and the North
The northern tip of the main island around Geta features the highest point in the Aland Islands, Orrdalsklint at 129 metres, with views across the archipelago, plus forested cycling trails and a traditional church village.
Signal: Alcom 4G covers Geta village and the main cycling routes. Forested tracks and the summit area of Orrdalsklint may have patchy signal.
Hidden Gems
Kastelholm Castle
historic fortressSund
A preserved medieval castle surrounded by a lake in the eastern main island, Kastelholm dates from the 14th century and served as a royal Swedish residence. The adjacent Vita Bjorn prison museum adds historical depth.
Signal: Good Alcom 4G coverage at the castle and surrounding Sund municipality. The castle museum and courtyard have reliable signal for photos and sharing.
Book guided tours in advance over Roamix data, as summer visits are popular and the castle runs timed admission. Download the Sund cycling route map before setting out.
Bomarsund fortress ruins
historic siteSund
The scattered ruins of a massive Russian fortress destroyed by Anglo-French forces in 1854 during the Crimean War, spread across a wooded peninsular above the sea, offer a unique chapter of Baltic military history amid peaceful birch forests.
Signal: Alcom 4G covers the Bomarsund area and the surrounding coastal road. The ruins are near the main road with good signal.
Use Roamix data to access the historical background of the Bomarsund siege before visiting, as on-site information panels are limited in English.
Sailing ship Pommern
maritime museumMariehamn
One of the last surviving four-masted sailing ships in the world, moored in the West Harbour as a museum ship. The Pommern is the centrepiece of the maritime heritage that defines Aland Islands identity.
Signal: Excellent 5G and 4G coverage throughout the Mariehamn harbour area where Pommern is permanently moored.
Buy your ticket in the Maritime Museum's app over Roamix data before arriving, and share photos from the deck directly to social media while the harbour's 5G gives you strong upload speeds.
Orrdalsklint
viewpointGeta
The highest point in the Aland Islands gives a sweeping view across the flat sea of the northern archipelago, forested ridges and the red houses of the Geta village below, a classic Nordic landscape from above.
Signal: Alcom 4G covers the trail and summit area at 129 metres, the highest point in the Aland Islands. Signal is reliable for photos and navigation from the top.
Download the cycling route from Geta village to Orrdalsklint over Roamix data before heading out, and use the summit signal to share panoramic photos from the islands' highest point.
Foglo outer archipelago
island archipelagoFoglo
The classic outer archipelago island experience, with free state ferries connecting clusters of low-lying islands, red fishing huts, bird-rich skerries and a slower pace of Baltic island life just a short ferry hop from the main island.
Signal: Alcom 4G covers Foglo's main village. Remote island cycling routes and outer skerries quickly drop to no signal. Download all maps in Mariehamn or Foglo village before cycling into the outer islands.
Download the Foglo island cycling map and the inter-island ferry timetable over Roamix data before departing. The free ferries run on fixed schedules and missing one leaves you stranded for hours.
Jan Karlsgarden open-air museum
open air museumSaltvik
A preserved 19th-century Aland farm estate with original windmills, cottages and farm buildings that recreate traditional island life, considered one of the finest open-air museums in the Nordic countries.
Signal: Good Alcom 4G coverage in the Saltvik area. The museum grounds have reliable signal for photos and sharing.
Use Roamix data to book your visit and check the windmill demonstration schedule in advance, as demonstrations run at specific times in summer.
Nyhamn lighthouse
lighthouseLemland
A red wooden lighthouse on a low rocky point at the southern tip of Lemland, accessible by a short cycling path from the village, offering wide views of the Baltic shipping lanes and summer evening light.
Signal: Alcom 4G reaches Nyhamn on the southern coast of Lemland. The lighthouse area and adjacent sea rocks have reliable signal.
Check sunset times and plan your cycling route from Mariehamn to Nyhamn over Roamix data. The 30 km round trip is a popular late afternoon ride and the lighthouse is popular for photography.
Aland Archipelago kayaking routes
outdoor routeOuter archipelago
The outer archipelago of the Aland Islands is one of Scandinavia's finest sea kayaking destinations, with a network of sheltered bays, flat granite skerries and free-to-use wilderness shelters spread across hundreds of islands.
Signal: No reliable coverage beyond the main inhabited islands on any network. Plan all kayaking routes entirely offline and communicate with shore contacts from the mainland ferry terminals before paddling out.
Download detailed offline charts of your planned kayaking route over Roamix data in Mariehamn or Foglo village. Leave your itinerary with a shore contact and use a personal locator beacon for remote crossings where there is no mobile coverage.
Aland Maritime Museum
museumMariehamn
The main maritime museum beside the West Harbour traces the Aland Islands' extraordinary history as a global shipping centre in the age of sail, with models, navigational instruments and stories from the era when Aland skippers commanded fleets across the world's oceans.
Signal: Excellent Alcom 5G and 4G coverage in the West Harbour museum district. Mariehamn's waterfront has some of the best connectivity in the islands.
Buy combined tickets for the Maritime Museum and Pommern ship over Roamix data before arriving. The combo ticket offers better value and avoids queuing at separate counters.
Aland Pancake and Viking Heritage Trail
food and culture trailMain island
A cycling and driving trail connecting Viking-era burial mounds at Saltvik, traditional farmhouses serving the famous Alandspannkaka pancake with local plum jam, and medieval churches where Swedish-language heritage is still actively practiced.
Signal: Good Alcom 4G coverage across the main island roads that connect the heritage farms and Viking-era burial mound sites.
Download the heritage trail map and the list of participating farms over Roamix data before setting out. Farms serving the traditional pancake have variable opening hours and it pays to call ahead using your mobile data connection.
Events & Best Seasons
Aland Midsummer Festival
CulturalMariehamn and island villages · June, Friday and Saturday closest to June 24
Midsummer is the biggest celebration of the year in the Aland Islands, with maypole dancing, bonfires on the shoreline, traditional singing and feasting across the archipelago. Mariehamn's harbour fills with decorated boats.
Network note
Network capacity holds well across Mariehamn during Midsummer. Outer island bonfires have no coverage.
Roamix tip
Book accommodation months in advance as the islands fill for Midsummer. Use Roamix data to confirm your ferry or boat plans before the holiday weekend.
Aland Archipelago Classic Sailing Race
sportMariehamn and outer archipelago · August, typically first or second week
A classic wooden boat race through the outer archipelago routes, drawing heritage vessels from across Scandinavia to compete in the Aland Islands' signature sailing event, with the start and finish in Mariehamn's West Harbour.
Network note
Coverage is excellent along the Mariehamn waterfront start line. Race course sections in the outer skerries have no coverage.
Roamix tip
Check the race schedule and spectator ferry routes over Roamix data. The harbour fills with participants and spectators and accommodation books out weeks ahead.
Aland Music Festival (Alands Musiksommar)
FestivalMariehamn and venue churches · July, across several weeks
A summer chamber music and classical concert series held in Mariehamn's theatre and in medieval stone churches across the main island, with visiting musicians from Scandinavia and Europe performing in intimate Nordic settings.
Network note
Good coverage at all venue locations. The medieval church settings have reliable signal for checking schedules and booking last-minute tickets.
Roamix tip
Buy tickets over Roamix data in advance for the most popular performances, as church venues sell out quickly and the box office is online only.
Pub Marathon Mariehamn
FestivalMariehamn · Late August
A popular summer street festival where participants follow a route between Mariehamn's waterfront bars and cafes, drawing visitors from the Baltic ferry routes and local islanders for an end-of-summer celebration.
Network note
Excellent Alcom 5G and 4G coverage throughout central Mariehamn during the event.
Roamix tip
Use Roamix data to navigate the route, check venue maps and arrange accommodation, which books up quickly for the late August event.
Aland Pancake Day at farmhouses
food and drinkTraditional farms across the main island · July and August, weekends
A summer tradition where traditional island farms open their kitchens to serve the famous Alandspannkaka, a thick oven-baked pancake served warm with stewed plum jam. Participating farms rotate through the summer season.
Network note
Good Alcom 4G along the main cycling routes connecting farms. Individual farmyards may have weak signal indoors.
Roamix tip
Download the current year's participating farm list and opening hours over Roamix data from the Visit Aland website before cycling out, as not all farms open every weekend.
Aland Marathon and Running Festival
sportMariehamn · Late May or early June
An annual road marathon and fun run through the cycling paths and roads of Mariehamn and the southern main island, one of the most scenic small-city marathons in Scandinavia with views of the Baltic throughout the course.
Network note
Excellent coverage throughout the entire Mariehamn running circuit on Alcom's network.
Roamix tip
Register over Roamix data well ahead of time as the event sells out. Check the start times and course map before race day.
Aland Independence Day
nationalMariehamn · June 9, Autonomy Day
Aland's Autonomy Day marks the first session of the Aland Parliament in 1922, celebrated with a ceremony at the Parliament building, flag raising across the islands, traditional songs and a public gathering in Mariehamn.
Network note
Good coverage throughout the Mariehamn ceremony locations.
Roamix tip
June 9 is a local public holiday. Check transport and restaurant hours over Roamix data in advance, as some services have reduced hours on the day.
Baltic Herring Market and Food Festival
food and drinkMariehamn harbour · September
An autumn celebration of Baltic herring and traditional Aland island food, with fishing boats selling fresh catch directly from the harbour, market stalls, cooking demonstrations and the season's last outdoor dining along the waterfront.
Network note
Excellent coverage in the Mariehamn harbour district.
Roamix tip
Check the exact dates over Roamix data in the weeks before visiting in September, as the market date shifts annually with the herring season.
Aland Halloween at Kastelholm Castle
CulturalKastelholm Castle, Sund · Late October
A family-friendly Halloween evening event at the medieval Kastelholm Castle, with guided tours of the candlelit fortress, historical ghost stories and activities for children, one of the most atmospheric Halloween events in Scandinavia.
Network note
Good Alcom 4G at the castle and the approach road through Sund.
Roamix tip
Book tickets over Roamix data well ahead as the event sells out and no tickets are available at the castle door. A Roamix connection helps navigate the Sund cycling route after dark.
Christmas Market Mariehamn
CulturalMariehamn town centre · December, first three weekends
A traditional Nordic Christmas market along Storagatan in the centre of Mariehamn, with handcrafted gifts, Aland candles, local jams and preserves, mulled wine and gingerbread against the backdrop of the Baltic island winter light.
Network note
Excellent Alcom 5G and 4G coverage throughout central Mariehamn during the market.
Roamix tip
Check the December ferry schedule over Roamix data before planning a Christmas market visit, as winter ferry frequency is reduced from the summer timetable.
Spring
April and May bring the first long days, migrating seabirds and the opening of cycling season. Weather is unpredictable and some island facilities do not open until late May.
Summer
June to August is peak season with up to 18 hours of daylight, warm Baltic sea temperatures and all island ferries running. Midsummer is the highlight. Accommodation books up months in advance.
Fall
September and October bring golden light, empty cycling paths and the Baltic herring market. Temperatures drop to 10 to 15 degrees and some outer island ferries reduce frequency.
Winter
November to March is quiet with dark days and temperatures around 0 to minus 5C. Mariehamn is peaceful and the Christmas market draws visitors in December. Most outer island facilities close.
Remote Work from Aland Islands
Mariehamn is a pleasant and peaceful remote work base, with good cafes, reliable 4G and a slower pace than mainland Finland or Sweden. The islands attract creative professionals during summer.
4G in Mariehamn handles video calls and cloud uploads well. Outer island connectivity is unsuitable for work without advance planning.
Work from Mariehamn's cafes on Storagatan or from your hotel, then island-hop on weekends. Use your Roamix eSIM as a secure backup to hotel wifi for sensitive calls.
Get connected the moment you land in Aland Islands.
Get your Aland Islands eSIMLocal Tips for Aland Islands
Language
Swedish is the only official language in the Aland Islands, a legacy of the territory's Scandinavian character. English is spoken by virtually all tourism staff and most residents in Mariehamn.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected but appreciated. Rounding up to the nearest euro at cafes or leaving 5 to 10 percent at restaurants is a polite gesture for good service.
Food & Dining
Aland Islands cuisine is centred on Baltic fish, especially perch, pike and herring, alongside local pancakes (Alandspannkaka) served with plum jam, and the famous Aland black bread. Mariehamn has excellent harbour cafes and a growing selection of seasonal Nordic restaurants.
Transport
Rent a bicycle on arrival for the main island and use your Roamix eSIM to download the official Aland Islands cycling map from visitaland.com before heading out.
Emergency Numbers
general
112
police
112
ambulance
112
fire
112
Essential Apps
Visit Aland official app
Official visitor guide with cycling routes, ferry timetables and island activities, all useful with Roamix data or offline.
Google Maps (offline)
Download the Aland Islands offline map package for cycling navigation in the outer archipelago where Alcom coverage drops out.
Viking Line or Tallink Silja app
Manage your ferry booking, check departures from Mariehamn and Langnas, and track live departure times over Roamix data.
Safety & Health in Aland Islands
The Aland Islands are one of the safest destinations in Europe. The main risk for outdoor visitors is unexpected weather on the Baltic, which can ground ferries and cause conditions to change quickly at sea.
Keep your Roamix eSIM active when sailing or kayaking in the outer archipelago so you can check weather forecasts and call for assistance. Download the Finnish Maritime Administration's archipelago charts offline before remote trips.
Health Note
Healthcare is available at Aland Central Hospital in Mariehamn. EU citizens with an EHIC card receive covered care. Non-EU visitors should carry travel health insurance.
Water Safety
Tap water is safe to drink across all the inhabited islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aland Islands eSIM, connectivity, and travel
What is the best eSIM for the Aland Islands?
Roamix is a top choice for the Aland Islands because it connects to Alcom, the local archipelago operator that covers all inhabited islands and 5G in Mariehamn. You activate before your ferry sails and arrive already online.
Do I need a SIM card for the Aland Islands?
You do not need a physical SIM. A Roamix Aland Islands eSIM gives you local 4G and 5G data on arrival without card swapping, and avoids the pricing complications that can affect some EU roaming setups in the Aland Islands.
Does EU roaming work in the Aland Islands?
The Aland Islands are part of the EU but outside the EU VAT area, and the application of Roam Like At Home varies by carrier. Some EU SIMs roam normally there, others do not. Check with your home operator before relying on EU roaming, or use a Roamix eSIM to be certain.
Which network operator covers the Aland Islands?
Alcom (Alands Telekommunikation Ab) is the primary local operator, covering all inhabited islands with 4G LTE and offering 5G in Mariehamn. Telia Finland provides secondary coverage under roaming agreements.
Will my eSIM work in the outer archipelago?
Coverage thins significantly beyond the main inhabited islands. Remote skerries, outer kayaking routes and uninhabited island chains have no signal on any network. Always download offline maps in Mariehamn before heading into the outer archipelago.
How do I set up an eSIM for the Aland Islands?
Buy a Roamix Aland Islands plan, install the eSIM over wifi before your departure, then enable data roaming on the Roamix line. It connects to Alcom automatically when you arrive in Mariehamn, whether by ferry or by air.
How much data do I need for the Aland Islands?
A three to five day cycling trip needs around 3 to 5 GB, covering navigation, social media and ferry schedule checking. Download offline map packages for the outer islands over wifi before you set out to minimise data use in low-coverage areas.
What language is spoken in the Aland Islands?
Swedish is the only official language. The Aland Islands are a Swedish-speaking autonomous territory of Finland. English is spoken widely in Mariehamn and by most people working in tourism.
What currency is used in the Aland Islands?
The euro is the official currency. Cards are accepted in Mariehamn and major tourist facilities. Carry a small amount of cash for outer island farm shops and small cafes.
Is airport wifi enough at Mariehamn Airport, or do I need an Aland Islands eSIM?
Mariehamn Airport has basic wifi in the terminal, but it stops at the door. A Roamix eSIM keeps you connected on the 3 km ride into town and all the way through your island-hopping trip.
What is the best time to visit the Aland Islands?
June to August for the full archipelago ferry network, warm weather and long daylight hours. Midsummer in late June is the cultural highlight of the year. September is quieter and equally beautiful for cycling.
How do I get to the Aland Islands?
By ferry from Turku or Helsinki in Finland, or from Stockholm in Sweden. Viking Line and Tallink Silja both stop at Mariehamn's West Harbour. Mariehamn Airport has regional flights operated by Finnair subsidiaries.
Can I use WhatsApp and social media in the Aland Islands?
Yes. The Aland Islands have a fully open internet. WhatsApp, Instagram, FaceTime and all social media work normally on a Roamix eSIM with no VPN required.
What plug type does the Aland Islands use?
The Aland Islands use Type C and Type F plugs at 230V, the standard European Schuko socket used throughout most of continental Europe and Scandinavia.
Still have questions?
Visit Help CenterNo roaming fees. Ever.
Stay connected across the Aland archipelago with Roamix
Skip roaming complications and SIM sourcing. Install a Roamix Aland Islands eSIM before you sail and arrive in Mariehamn already connected to Alcom's network.
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