Åland is situated mid-way between the Finnish mainland and Sweden. The Silja, Tallink and Viking lines all connect the two countries with a stop at Mariehamn, Viking's timetable making a day's trip from either side feasible but leaving practically no time on the islands. The Birka and Eckerö lines also provide links from Sweden.
The inter-island ferries, which are free to pedestrians, not only provide access to the smaller islands but allow for passage in a day between Åland and Turku [Åbo.] For vehicle owners the passage is only free for those spending sufficient nights on the islands. Pedestrians need to examine the separate shipping, Åland buses and Turku buses timetables carefully - but it is well worth the effort.
There is a small airport at Mariehamn.
Minor corrections by davidx on 18 December 04