Rastila Metro Station

Rastila Metro Station Helsinki: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Rastila Metro Station’s Role in Helsinki

Rastila Metro Station serves as a crucial connection point between Helsinki’s vibrant city center and its dynamic eastern districts. Since opening in 1998, the station has become not only a practical transit hub but also a showcase of thoughtful architecture, seamlessly integrating urban infrastructure with nature. Designed by Irmeli Grundström and Juhani Vainio, Rastila’s above-ground structure allows natural light to illuminate its platforms and serves as a gateway to the area’s rich cultural, historical, and recreational offerings (Wikipedia; Helsinki Metro Station Guide).

Rastila is renowned for its accessibility, with step-free platforms, elevators, and ramps that make it inclusive for all passengers (MetroEasy). It is also embedded in a vibrant multicultural community and surrounded by outdoor attractions, including the popular Rastila Camping grounds and the scenic Bay Trail. As a visitor, you can enjoy both the convenience of efficient public transit and immediate access to nature and local culture.

Travelers should note that from May to September 2025, metro service to Rastila will be temporarily suspended for bridge renovations, with replacement buses maintaining connections (HSL Transport Service Plan 2025–2026). This guide details everything you need to know for a successful visit, from current ticketing and accessibility information to tips on making the most of your time in Rastila.

Rastila Metro Station entrance in Helsinki with clear sky and urban surroundings

Rastila metro track with rails and overhead electrical lines surrounded by green grass and trees

Introduction: Rastila Metro Station’s Role in Helsinki
Essential Visitor Information
Station History and Urban Impact
Architectural Highlights
Attractions and Activities Near Rastila
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Rastila in 2025: Metro Service Changes and Travel Alternatives
Exploring Eastern Helsinki: Nature and Multicultural Life
Summary and Planning Resources
References and Further Reading

Essential Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Rastila Metro Station operates daily, generally from 5:00 AM to midnight, in line with Helsinki Metro’s standard service times. For real-time schedules, consult the HSL Journey Planner.

Tickets and Fares

Tickets can be purchased via the HSL mobile app, at ticket machines in the station, or from authorized retailers. Rastila falls within Helsinki’s metropolitan fare zones. Options include single tickets, day passes, and travel cards—all valid on the metro, buses, trams, and ferries (MyHelsinki). As of 2025, a single journey costs €2.90.

Accessibility

Rastila is fully accessible, with ground-level platforms, elevators, and ramps for those with mobility needs. Facilities include accessible toilets, reserved train seating, and guidance for visually impaired passengers. Guide dogs are welcome, and their handlers travel free (MetroEasy).

Directions

Rastila is located on the eastern M1 metro line, 2 km from Puotila and 1.2 km from Vuosaari. It is connected by multiple bus lines and pedestrian routes, with bicycle and car parking available (Wikipedia).

Station History and Urban Impact

Rastila Metro Station was inaugurated on August 31, 1998, as part of Helsinki’s eastward metro extension to support growing neighborhoods such as Vuosaari and Meri-Rastila. Since then, it has played an integral role in facilitating residential and commercial growth in the area, serving thousands of passengers daily and underpinning Helsinki’s sustainable urban development (Wikipedia).

Architectural Highlights

Designed by Irmeli Grundström and Juhani Vainio, Rastila stands out among Helsinki’s metro stations for its above-ground structure and harmonious blend with surrounding green spaces. The use of local materials and open architectural lines creates a welcoming, light-filled atmosphere. Artistic elements, such as the Mosaiikkiraitti pedestrian underpass, connect the station visually to its neighborhood (Helsinki Metro Station Guide).

Attractions and Activities Near Rastila

Rastila Camping: Offers year-round affordable accommodation, saunas, and easy access to the beach and nature trails (Rastila Camping).
Rastila Beach: A family-friendly sandy beach with accessible facilities, lifeguards in summer, and adjacent playgrounds (City of Helsinki).
Bay Trail (Lahtipolku): A scenic, accessible nature trail featuring unique Ice Age geological formations and excellent birdwatching opportunities (Out in the Nature).
Meri-Rastila Multicultural Hub: Explore ethnic shops, community spaces, and local markets in Finland’s first official multicultural suburb (Hiiraan).
Nearby Parks: Haruspuisto and Iso Kallahdenpuisto offer green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Visitor Tips

Buy tickets in advance via the HSL app to streamline your travel.
Visit during daylight to appreciate the station’s architecture and nearby nature trails.
Combine your metro trip with a walk along the Bay Trail or a swim at Rastila Beach.
Check for service updates, especially during planned construction or events.
Use park-and-ride facilities if arriving by bike or car.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Rastila Metro Station’s operating hours?
A: Generally, 5:00 AM–midnight, but check HSL Journey Planner for updates.

Q: How much does a metro ticket cost?
A: €2.90 for a single journey, with day passes and travel cards also available.

Q: Is Rastila accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, with step-free entry, elevators, and accessible toilets.

Q: What attractions are near Rastila Metro Station?
A: Rastila Camping, Rastila Beach, the Bay Trail, and the multicultural Meri-Rastila neighborhood.

Q: Are replacement buses available during metro service disruptions?
A: Yes, during closures, frequent replacement buses and enhanced bus routes serve the area (HSL Transport Service Plan 2025–2026).

Rastila in 2025: Metro Service Changes and Travel Alternatives

Metro Service Disruption (May–September 2025)

From May 5 to September 29, 2025, metro service to Rastila and Vuosaari will be suspended for renovations to the Vuosaari Metro bridge. Metro trains will terminate at Puotila. Replacement buses (99V, 98, and 560) will maintain frequent connections to Rastila and Vuosaari (HSL, 2025). Night buses 90A and 90N continue to serve the district.

All metro tickets are valid on replacement buses. Purchase tickets in advance, as there are no onboard sales. For up-to-date routes and schedules, use the HSL Journey Planner.

Alternative Travel: Archipelago Route and City Bikes

During the summer, the Eastern Archipelago Route waterbus provides a scenic alternative, connecting Helsinki city center to the Rantapuisto pier near Rastila (Hotel Rantapuisto, 2025). Helsinki’s city bike system is also operational and ideal for local connections (Guide to Helsinki, 2025).

Exploring Eastern Helsinki: Nature and Multicultural Life

Outdoor Experiences

Bay Trail: Year-round accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Features Ice Age rock fields, forests, and birdwatching spots (Out in the Nature).
Rastila and Meri-Rastila Beaches: Sandy beaches close to the metro, with amenities for families and accessible facilities (City of Helsinki).
Uutela and Mustavuori: Nearby recreational areas offering trails, WWII bunkers, and scenic coastal landscapes.

Multicultural Meri-Rastila

Meri-Rastila is noted for its rich community life, with cultural events, ethnic shops, and inclusive public spaces (Hiiraan). Urban renewal projects have enhanced parks and community gardens, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors.

Accommodation

Rastila Camping: Open year-round, provides cabins, tent sites, and saunas (Official Rastila Camping site).
Hotel Rantapuisto: Accessible via replacement buses and the Archipelago Route, offering seaside lodging and conference facilities (Hotel Rantapuisto, 2025).

Summary and Planning Resources

Rastila Metro Station exemplifies Helsinki’s commitment to sustainable, accessible, and community-oriented urban development. Its strategic location, modern amenities, and proximity to both nature and culture make it a prime destination for travelers and locals alike. During 2025’s metro renovations, well-organized replacement transport ensures continued access, and the area’s attractions remain open and welcoming.