Vaasa

Finland’s Energy Capital by the Sea

Located on the west coast of Finland, Vaasa is a vibrant university city of around 70,000 inhabitants. Known for its unique combination of academic excellence, technological innovation, and close connection to nature, Vaasa offers an inspiring setting for researchers, practitioners, and students from around the world.

Vaasa is home to several universities and higher education institutions, creating an international and multidisciplinary academic community. The city is particularly renowned for its world-leading energy technology cluster, where global companies, startups, researchers, and public organizations collaborate to develop sustainable solutions for the future.

Despite its international outlook, Vaasa has retained the welcoming atmosphere and easy accessibility of a smaller city. Everything is within walking or cycling distance, making it easy to explore the city, meet colleagues, and enjoy the conference experience.

Among Vaasa’s highlights are:

  • The beautiful archipelago of the Kvarken World Heritage Area, Finland’s only UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.
  • A lively seaside promenade, beaches, and waterfront cafés.
  • A vibrant cultural scene with museums, theatres, festivals, and local cuisine.
  • Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, from coastal walks and cycling to kayaking and nature excursions.
  • A unique bilingual culture, where both Finnish and Swedish are everyday languages, complemented by a strong international community.

Whether you are attending inspiring conference sessions, networking with colleagues, or exploring the surrounding nature, Vaasa offers a memorable combination of innovation, hospitality, and Nordic coastal charm.

For information on travelling to Vaasa and the conference venue, please visit the Travel and Venue pages on this website.

Useful links:

More information about Vaasa Region

Information about the Kvarken Archipelago