cultural tourism in finland

Discover What Finland Tourism Has to Offer: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Finnish Wonders

Thursday, March 14, 2024 Favorite

Discover Finland ‘s magic: Northern Lights, vibrant cities, and endless nature. A top travel and tourism destination for an unforgettable experience.

Finland travel has become a magnet for travelers worldwide, celebrated for its breathtaking natural scenery, dense woodlands, myriad of lakes, and vibrant cultural scene. In the year 2018, the Finland tourism industry welcomed more than 6.8 million international visitors, with a significant number arriving from countries within the European Union, including Russia, Germany, and Sweden. Finland is distinguished by its numerous water bodies, pristine water quality, and the plethora of winter sports available, including Nordic and downhill skiing. Tourists are drawn to explore the lively urban areas of Finland, such as Helsinki, famed for its traditional seaside marketplace and the Suomenlinna sea fortress. Furthermore, the rich cultural traditions of Finland travel are highlighted in its various museums and art galleries spread across the nation.

By December 2023, the Finland tourism sector saw an uptick in tourism with approximately 0.31 million tourists marking their arrival, a substantial increase from the approximately 0.19 million tourists recorded in the preceding month, underlining the sustained allure of Finland as a travel spot. This growth also indicates a positive trend for the Finland aviation industry and Finland hospitality industry, showcasing the country’s capacity to attract and accommodate an increasing number of visitors.

Finland is an ideal location for those enchanted by the natural world and wildlife, offering chances to witness the aurora borealis, venture through its national parks on foot, and take scenic drives to marvel at its picturesque landscapes. The blend of untamed beauty, modern design, and gastronomic delights renders Finland travel an irresistible destination for those in search of varied experiences. Furthermore, the country is lauded for its dedication to ensuring tourism is accessible and inclusive, making sure visitors with different abilities can fully enjoy the wonders and sites Finland has to offer.

The Finland tourism sector is flourishing, providing an extensive array of experiences for tourists to delve into the country’s natural beauty and profound cultural roots. The positive impacts of this growth are felt across the Finland aviation industry and Finland hospitality industry, highlighting the importance of tourism to the nation’s economy and its global appeal as a top travel destination.

Must-See Attractions in Helsinki

Finland Travel and Finland Tourism spotlight Helsinki as a vibrant capital, showcasing must-see attractions that beckon tourists from around the globe. Places to visit in Finland, especially in Helsinki, encompass:

• Helsinki Cathedral : An impressive white neoclassical edifice in Senate Square, serving as a Lutheran place of worship, highlights the architectural heritage important to Finland Tourism.
• Suomenlinna : A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a maritime fortress sprawls across six islands, offering a glimpse into Finland’s military history, making it a pinnacle of Finland travel experiences.
• Uspenski Cathedral : Western Europe’s premier Eastern Orthodox cathedral captivates with its red-brick facade and opulent gold-domed roof, a must-visit for those exploring the cultural dimensions of Finland Tourism.
• Temppeliaukio Church : Known as the Rock Church, this architectural marvel, carved directly into rock, showcases the innovative spirit of places to visit in Finland.
• SEA LIFE Helsinki : A marine enthusiast’s delight, home to an array of sea creatures, enriching the Finland Tourism experience with underwater exploration.
• Esplanadi : A bustling park and promenade in Helsinki’s core, a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, reflecting the lively urban culture central to Finland Travel.
• Sibelius Monument : Celebrates composer Jean Sibelius with over 600 steel pipes, a unique artistic and musical heritage attraction for visitors interested in Finland Tourism.
• Free Walking Tours Helsinki : Offers a deep dive into the city’s highlights, guided by knowledgeable locals, an essential experience for Finland Travel enthusiasts.
• Old Market Hall : A traditional marketplace brimming with Finnish delicacies, crafts, and keepsakes, showcasing the culinary delights significant to Finland Tourism.
• Seurasaari Open-Air Museum : Brings Finnish history to life, displaying traditional structures and ways of living, a cultural exploration cornerstone for those visiting Finland.
• Kamppi Chapel : Offers tranquility in the bustling heart of the city, a reflective space adding depth to the Finland Travel experience.
• Helsinki Zoo : Situated on Korkeasaari Island, a family favorite displaying a diverse collection of flora and fauna, enriching the biodiversity aspect of Finland Tourism.
• Helsinki City Museum : Delves into the city’s past and present, offering insights into Helsinki’s transformation, an important narrative within Finland Travel.
• Kaivopuisto Park : A scenic park loved for its recreational spaces, events, and winter sports, illustrating the outdoor allure central to Finland Tourism.

Helsinki mesmerizes with its blend of historical depth, cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern flair, promising a memorable visit for those exploring Finland Tourism.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Attractions in Helsinki

For those seeking less trodden paths in Helsinki, consider these unique spots, enriching the Finland Travel experience with the city’s hidden gems:

• Sibelius Monument and Kaivopuisto offer art and serene views, respectively, adding to the diverse fabric of Finland Tourism.
• Old Church Park and Unread Signs (Sculpture) provide tranquility and creative expression, aspects cherished by explorers of places to visit in Finland.
• Lasipalatsi Square and Tove Jansson Park pulse with cultural significance, offering insights into the modern Helsinki vibe crucial for an enriched Finland Travel experience.
• Unexpected Visitor adds an element of mystery and discovery, showcasing the innovative spirit Helsinki contributes to Finland Tourism.

These hidden gems offer visitors a deeper dive into Helsinki’s diverse cultural fabric, an essential aspect of Finland Travel and Tourism.

Top Summer Activities in Finland

Top Summer Activities in Finland underscore the nation as a prime destination for Finland tourism and Finland travel, turning it into a playground for visitors during the summer months. The country offers a plethora of activities that immerse them in the breathtaking nature and rich cultural tapestry, crucial to the Finland travel experience. Here’s what’s on the top of the must-do list for those exploring Finland tourism:

• Kayaking Adventures : Dive into the serene and stunning Finnish waters through kayaking, a highlight of Finland travel. Whether it’s the magical midnight sun kayaking around the Helsinki area or weaving through the intricate Archipelago National Park, kayaking turns into an unforgettable journey, emblematic of the best of Finland tourism.
• Biking Exploration : Pedal through Finland’s diverse terrains, from the urban vibe of Helsinki’s streets to the serene paths of Hanko. Cycling offers an exhilarating method to witness the country’s beauty, blending exercise with exploration, and is a staple activity for those experiencing Finland tourism.
• Trail Hiking : Venture into the wilderness on foot at destinations like Nuuksio National Park, just a stone’s throw from Helsinki. It’s a paradise for hikers, making it a must for Finland travel itineraries with its array of trails, serene lakes perfect for a dip, and spots ideal for camping and barbecue gatherings.
• Outdoor Pursuits : Finland’s landscape is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, central to Finland tourism. From lakeside hiking, sunbathing, and swimming to forest explorations facilitated by the Everyman’s Right, and the popular Nordic walking, the great outdoors calls for discovery for those traveling in Finland.
• Festival Participation : The Finnish summer, a pivotal aspect of Finland tourism, is punctuated with a lineup of events and festivals. Immerse yourself in the music and cultural vibrancy at the Flow Festival, the Helsinki Samba Carnival, or the Tuska Festival, each providing a taste of Finland’s festive spirit and enhancing the Finland travel experience.
• Cultural Traditions : Delve into Finnish cultural practices, especially during the Midsummer celebration of Juhannus, a cornerstone of Finland tourism. It’s a time when Finns retreat to summer cottages, ignite lakeside bonfires, and revel in the year’s longest day amidst nature, friends, and family, offering a unique cultural insight for Finland travel enthusiasts.

Exploring Finland in the summer means engaging with a host of activities that not only showcase the country’s natural splendor but also offer a deep dive into its traditions and cultural festivities, making it a memorable part of Finland tourism and travel.

Key Airports in Finland

Finland’s aviation industry plays a crucial role in the country’s connectivity and Finland Tourism, with several pivotal airports serving as gateways for both domestic and international travelers. These airports facilitate seamless connections across the globe and within its borders, bolstering the Finland tourism industry by enabling easy access to the nation’s myriad attractions. Here are the principal airports that are integral to the Finland aviation industry and Finland tourism:

• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL/EFHK) : Serving as the primary international gateway to Helsinki and the broader Uusimaa region, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland’s busiest airport. In 2023, it catered to around 15.3 million travelers, including about 2 million transit passengers. This showcases growth from prior years, yet still trails behind the pre-COVID transit figures of 3.6 million in 2019, reflecting the challenges and resilience of the Finland aviation industry. The airport has the capacity to accommodate 16-17 million passengers annually, making it a cornerstone of Finland tourism.
• Oulu Airport (OUL) : Positioned in Oulu, this facility ranks as Finland’s second-largest airport and is pivotal for both national and international connections, supporting the Finland aviation industry’s efforts to enhance regional accessibility and promote Finland tourism.
• Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) : Located in the city famed as Santa Claus’s official home, Rovaniemi Airport is a crucial hub in Lapland for Finland tourism, linking numerous destinations and managing a substantial yearly passenger volume, especially during the holiday season which highlights the symbiotic relationship between the Finland aviation industry and Finland tourism.
• Kittilä Airport (KTT) : Kittilä Airport lies in Kittilä and serves as an essential gateway to Northern Finland, particularly during the winter months. It experiences an influx of international visitors from nations such as Germany, France, and the UK, underlining the importance of the Finland aviation industry in boosting Finland tourism, especially for winter sports and Santa Claus Village.
• Vaasa Airport (VAA) : An important airport in western Finland, Vaasa Airport caters to around 300,000 passengers each year. It offers flights through airlines like Finnair and Scandinavian Airlines to various destinations, playing a vital role in the Finland aviation industry and supporting regional tourism.
• Kuopio Airport (KUO) : Situated in the city of Kuopio, this airport sees about 200,000 passengers annually, providing flights to both domestic and international destinations. It underscores the strategic role of the Finland aviation industry in facilitating access to the heart of Finland for both tourism and business.

These airports are integral to the Finland aviation industry, offering a robust network that underpins Finland tourism by ensuring travelers can easily explore the rich cultural and natural landscapes Finland offers.

Premier Accommodations in Finland

Finland highlight the country’s commitment to offering unique and luxurious lodging options that enhance the Finland tourism experience. The Finland hospitality industry plays a pivotal role in providing unforgettable experiences amid the stunning landscapes of Finland. Some of the top accommodations that contribute to Finland tourism and reflect the excellence of the Finland hospitality industry include:

• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort East Village : Nestled in Saariselkä, this resort is renowned within the Finland hospitality industry for its distinctive glass igloos and traditional log cabins, perfect for viewing the Northern Lights and boosting Finland tourism by offering a quintessentially Arctic experience.
• Arctic TreeHouse Hotel : Located in Rovaniemi, guests can stay in treehouse-like rooms with expansive windows, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area. This hotel is a testament to the innovative offerings of the Finland hospitality industry, designed to attract Finland tourism enthusiasts looking for unique experiences.
• Arctic Skylight Lodge : Situated in Äkäslompolo, the lodge provides glass-roofed cabins for guests to gaze at the night sky and possibly the Northern Lights, showcasing the Finland hospitality industry’s commitment to creating memorable stays that enhance Finland tourism.
• Wilderness Hotel Nangu : In Inari, this hotel offers diverse lodging options including glass igloos and log cabins, set in picturesque surroundings ideal for nature activities. It’s a prime example of how the Finland hospitality industry caters to various tastes, promoting Finland tourism through nature-based accommodations.
• Arctic Fox Igloos : Found in Ranua, these glass igloos combine comfort with the chance to witness the Northern Lights, offering a unique stay in the Arctic. This accommodation highlights the Finland hospitality industry’s role in providing distinctive experiences that attract tourists to Finland.
• Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle : This Rovaniemi hotel provides glass igloos for a magical Arctic Circle experience, attracting those eager to soak in the polar charm, and is a key player in the Finland hospitality industry, enhancing Finland tourism by offering close proximity to Santa Claus Village.
• Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos : In Sinettä, guests can opt for snow rooms or glass igloos, experiencing the Arctic’s allure in an extraordinary setting, further emphasizing the innovative nature of the Finland hospitality industry in attracting Finland tourism.
• Wilderness Hotel Inari : Offering a mix of log cabins and glass igloos in Inari, this hotel is celebrated for its scenic beauty and array of outdoor activities, showcasing the Finland hospitality industry’s ability to provide immersive nature experiences that boost Finland tourism.
• Marriott : In Helsinki, Marriott offers prime locations like Helka Hotel and distinctive properties including Hotel St. George, Hotel U14, and Hotel Katajanokka. These central hotels feature comfortable accommodations close to major attractions, catering to both leisure and business needs for a memorable stay in the city.
• Scandic : Scandic Expands in Finland with New 144-Room Hotel in Oulu for 2025 Opening. Scandic has entered into a long-term agreement with the developer SRV to launch a new Scandic Go hotel featuring 144 rooms in Oulu, Finland. Slated to open in the latter half of 2025, this hotel will occupy a prime location in Oulu, the largest city in northern Finland, positioning it at the heart of the city’s central area.

These hotels cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors can enjoy Finland’s breathtaking natural wonders in comfort and style, thereby playing a crucial role in the success of Finland tourism.

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15 Best Places to Visit in Finland, From the Sauna Capital of the World to Santa Claus Village

From national parks and beautiful lakes to modern cities and the home of Santa Claus, these are the best places to visit in Finland.

Visit Finland

If you’re planning a trip to Finland, there’s a good chance seeing the northern lights is at the top of your list. During the winter months, Lapland, the country’s northernmost region, is known as one of the best places in the world to view the famed natural light display. Amazing as the experience may be, though, spotting the aurora borealis is just one of the many reasons to visit this Nordic country. 

Adventurous travelers and those who prefer fresh air to indoor activities will feel right at home in Finland. Nicknamed the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” the country has around 188,000 lakes, giving way to activities like ice fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and cruising. Finland is also covered in lush forests and vast wilderness; in fact, there are 41 national parks, all of which showcase the diversity of Finnish landscapes, flora, and fauna. Spending time in the great outdoors is crucial to understanding Finland and what makes it so special — so be sure to save time in your itinerary for a trip to Lake Päijänne or Nuuksio National Park. “The everyday life is rather similar in all the Nordic countries, but I believe Finns appreciate silence and nature even more,” says Riitta Kiukas, CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour . “One hour in a forest every day keeps us happy.” Other places to search for the secret to Finnish happiness include Helsinki (the country’s capital), Rovaniemi (the home of Santa Claus), and any of the country’s traditional saunas. 

Consider giving yourself at least five to seven days to explore Finland. “Geographically, Finland is big, and distances are long. Therefore, I would recommend reserving a week at the minimum,” says Kiukas. And if you get lost or need help during your travels, don’t be afraid to ask a Finn for assistance. “I think one of the biggest misconceptions about Finland is that people are very reserved and cold. As that may be for some, most are truly nice and warm and willing to go a long way just to help somebody out,” says Eero Vottonen, chef of Palace , a Michelin-starred restaurant in Helsinki. 

Meet the Expert

Riitta Kiukas is the CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour, a Finnish travel agency offering a number of tours and experiences. 

Eero Vottonen is the award-winning Finnish chef at Palace, a Helsinki restaurant that has earned two Michelin stars. 

Interested in learning more about what this Northern European country has to offer? Read on to discover the 15 best places to visit in Finland, according to locals. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Finland for Outdoor Adventures, Northern Lights Viewing, and More

fotoVoyager/Getty Images

Not only is Helsinki the capital of Finland, but it’s also the gateway to discovering the rest of the country, particularly for international travelers. Like many European cities, Helsinki mixes history — it was founded in 1550 — with modern art, architecture, and a number of incredible restaurants and cafes. For a culturally rich experience, browse the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art , Design Museum , and Galerie Forsblom .

Åland Islands

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Around 6,700 islands make up the archipelago of Åland. Chef Vottonen notes its “beautiful scenery with a lot to explore,” particularly in the summertime. The autonomous region is ideal for island-hopping; the islands with permanent residents are connected by ferry. Not sure where to begin? Kiukas suggests Kökar, “a small island with a unique archipelago nature.” “Our clients just love everything there, and many cycle through the Åland Islands,” she says.

Eduardo Cabanas/Getty Images

Rovaniemi is the “Official Hometown of Santa Claus” and the capital of Lapland. Visitors make their way to the city’s Santa Claus Village — where you can meet the man himself — all year round, although it’s most popular during the holiday season. If you come to Rovaniemi in the summer, however, you’ll get to experience the midnight sun, the natural phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set. 

Related: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Finnish Lapland — Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Included

SilvanBachmann/Getty Images

The sauna is central to Finnish culture, and Tampere holds the title of the “Sauna Capital of the World,” with the most public saunas (55 and counting) in Finland. Chef Vottonen describes his former hometown as having “the easiest and [most] chilled vibe.” Those interested in experiencing a traditional sauna should book a session at Rajaportti , the country’s oldest still-operating public sauna.

Nuuksio National Park

Joao Inacio/Getty Images

“Us Finns usually have a relationship with the wild or forest,” says Chef Vottonen. “Hiking or walking through one of [our] amazing national parks shows you the reason why. [They’re] usually very well maintained and with the possibility to reserve indoor sleeping.” Nuuksio National Park is easy to reach from Helsinki, and overnight travelers can reserve a cozy cabin to sleep in after a day of hiking, swimming, or cycling in the park.

Finmiki Images/Getty Images

The oldest city in Finland and the country’s former capital, Turku should be on every traveler’s radar, particularly if they’re interested in Nordic cuisine. Travel + Leisure journalist Tom Vanderbilt highlighted Smör and the Michelin-starred Kaskis in his guide to Turku , but there are a variety of other restaurants — and things to do — to fill your day in the riverside town. Most notably, there’s the 13th-century Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, and the open-air Market Square.

Kiukas adds Posio, “the most sustainable village in Finland,” to her list of the country’s best places to visit. Located in Lapland, Posio is great for “individuals and small groups searching for authentic experiences,” she says. The village is also the center of Finnish ceramic culture; Pentik , the world’s northernmost ceramic factory, and the Arctic Ceramic Centre both call Posio home.

Suomenlinna

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You’ll find Suomenlinna , an 18th-century sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a group of islands near Helsinki. Chef Vottonen calls it a “must-visit in the summer,” and recommends travelers have “a picnic, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy the restaurants.” Those interested in the sea fortress’ history can learn more in the six different on-site museums .

Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is the largest lake district in Europe, and there are a variety of towns, villages, and bodies of water to explore in the region. Kiukas recommends starting with Hämeenlinna or Lahti, “southern Finnish towns so close to Helsinki that many travelers just pass by.” “This is where the lake district starts, and you can get a taste of country life — slow down and enjoy silence, lakes, and the nature around you,” she says.

Ranua Wildlife Park

Thomas O'Neill/NurPhoto via Getty Images

If you want to see a polar bear, lynx, arctic foxes, and a large variety of other arctic species, make your way to Ranua Wildlife Park , about an hour’s drive south of Rovaniemi. The animals live in enclosures in the midst of the northern coniferous forest, and the park is open year-round. 

MinttuFin/Getty Images

For a dose of Finnish history, Chef Vottonen recommends visiting Porvoo, the second oldest city in Finland. “[It’s] only a short drive from Helsinki by car,” he says, or travelers can “enjoy the boat ride… and see the beautiful coastline.” The Old Porvoo neighborhood is recognizable for its traditional red-painted wooden houses along the Porvoonjoki River, and its cobbled streets and quaint cafes create a picture-perfect scene for both travelers and locals alike. 

Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld/Getty Images

Winter sports enthusiasts will be interested in visiting Levi, the largest ski resort in Finland. Skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding, winter hiking, and snowshoeing are all available in Levi, and it’s also a great destination for seeing the northern lights. The light show is visible on most clear nights, but you can also take a guided tour to ensure you get the best views.  

Kiukas calls Varkaus a “hidden gem by Lake Saimaa,” and she says there’s a “contrast created by pure lake nature and industrial heritage.” Given its access to the surrounding lakes and canals, it’s a popular destination for those traveling by water. When not exploring the waterways, visitors can stop at the “Museum” of Mechanical Music (with purposeful quotation marks around “museum”), the Taipale Canal Museum , or the Väinölä Art Centre .

Lemmenjoki National Park

Harri Tarvainen/Visit Finland

The largest of Finland’s national parks, Lemmenjoki is known for its natural beauty and its history of gold prospecting. To explore the area, visitors can hike, canoe, or hop aboard a boat on the Lemmenjoki River. Travelers may also get a glimpse of the culture of the Indigenous Sámi people; the park features old housing and hunting grounds. 

Julia Kivela/Visit Finland

Kiukas suggests those traveling to Finland make a stop in Fiskars, an “example of an old industrial village now offering working spaces for artisans and artists.” Billed as a “home of creativity,” the village is the birthplace of Fiskars Corporation, the well-known Finnish company that makes cooking, gardening, and craft products — including the world's first plastic-handled scissors.

The 15 best things to do in Finland

Nov 14, 2023 • 11 min read

From Helsinki to Lapland, here are the very best things to do in Finland © Chalermkiat Seedokmai

You’ll never see it all in one trip – which is just as well as Finland has got enough to hook you for a lifetime.

Whether it’s the sorcery of the northern lights in the frosty wilds of Lapland, bear watching in the remote, silent forests of the east, cloudberry foraging as the midnight sun blazes, or paddling from lake to lake with nothing but the seals and sea eagles for company in Finnish Lakeland, Finland will cast a spell over you.

But don’t take our word for it: in this country of extremes and extreme otherness, every moment and memory is wholly unique. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Finland to get you started. 

1. See the northern lights in Lapland

Holding your breath as the aurora borealis swoops and sways in the frozen Arctic night sky is an experience not quite of this world. No photo gets even close to conveying the moment when the heavens light up, the sky shifts in the most unsettling way, and green rays float down like strobe lights, as if the Nordic gods are having a wild party up above.

Finnish Lapland is one of the best places on earth to observe the electrifying, shape-shifting phenomenon that the Finns call revontulet , or fox fires – myth has it they were created when an Arctic fox running through the snow sent sparks flying into the sky. The Sámi have deep respect for the northern lights and remain silent in their presence, as some believe they are the dancing spirits of their ancestors. 

Rovaniemi makes a cracking first base for heading out on a tour to hunt down the northern lights. Or go further north still to the snowy fells of Saariselkä , Harriniva, Levi, or Utsjoki, where the odds of seeing the lights from September to April are sky high .

2. Feel festive in Lapland's Rovaniemi

Wish it could be Christmas every day? You’re going to love Rovaniemi, where you can cuddle up to the big, jolly, red-robed, chimney-diving dude 365 days a year. You are forever five years old as you whisper your wish list into Santa’s ear in his grotto at the Santa Claus Village , right atop the Arctic Circle. When you’re done, post letters with the Arctic Circle stamp at the post office or jump on a reindeer-driven sleigh.

And if you’re still fizzing with festive enthusiasm, nip across to the Santapark to hang out with toy-making, gingerbread-baking elves, hop on twinkly rides, chill at the ice bar, and meet – err – the other real Santa…  

3. Forage for cloudberries in Ranua

The mosquitoes are after blood, and the swamps want to suck you down, but who gives a damn: with a basket, a netted hat, a forager’s eye, and mile after shimmering mile of forest and lake ahead, you feel nothing but at one with nature joy as you venture into the remote wilds in search of cloudberries. And where better to find "Lappish gold" than in Ranua, the little town just south of the Arctic Circle that bills itself as Finland’s cloudberry capital?

For a few brief weeks in late July and early August, you can channel your inner hunter-gatherer and come here to pick the tart, creamy, amber-gold berries, born of winter snows, which drive Finns crazy for their taste and super-food potency. But it isn’t just about the berries – walking alone in the cottongrass-stippled swamps, feeling the space and silence, having the time to think – this is Finnish happiness. Visit Ranua can sort you out with foraging maps and apps and help arrange guides.

4. Dive in at the sauna deep end

If you’ve never done it before, you might find the idea of stripping naked in front of a bunch of sweaty strangers in a little wooden cabin unnerving, but relax: this is Finland. Wholeheartedly embracing the sauna experience is your fast track to the country’s steam-loving soul. Leave your modesty in the changing room, bring a towel and an open mind, and feel the stress slip away as water hisses on the stove, clouds of löyly (vapor) rise, and the temperature reaches a toasty 80°C (176°F). Round out by lightly whipping yourself with a circulation-boosting vasta (birch whisk), jumping in an ice hole, and drinking a beer, and you’ve reached peak Finnishness.

Saunas are everywhere in Finland, but ones you’ll never forget include the world’s biggest underground smoke sauna, Herrankukkaro (Mama's Pocket), on an island just south of Turku, rustic lakefront Jätkänkämppä in Kuopio, and Finland’s oldest working sauna, Rajaportin in Tampere . 

5. Hit the water in Finnish Lakeland

All is green and blue as far as the eye can see in Finnish Lakeland in the country’s east. Here you can’t pick a map up without sploshing straight into the water. The exact number of lakes is uncertain, but estimates weigh in at 55,000. Days here have their own mellow rhythm and simplicity that comes with the rising and setting of the sun over the forest and mirror-like lake.

For a true sense of back-to-nature freedom, nothing beats grabbing a paddle and taking to the waters in a kayak or canoe. With the world’s longest lake coastline, forest-blanketed Lake Saimaa  is a fabulous base to rent a canoe or join a guided tour. As you weave in and out of a maze of deserted islands, inlets, and bays, you might get lucky and spot the rare Saimaa ringed seal (endemic to this region), otters, reindeer, and elk. Nights are spent by the crackle of a campfire under a canopy of stars. Bliss. 

6. Rewind to medieval times in Old Rauma

With its lopsided wooden buildings in ice-cream pastels, flower boxes, and cobbles, UNESCO World Heritage Old Rauma is a pleasure to explore on foot. The largest wooden medieval old town in the Nordic countries might look like a theater set, but it’s very much a thriving little community, with its cluster of low-key cafes, shops, museums, and artisans’ workshops. Rauman giäl, an old sailor’s dialect, is still spoken here.

The Rauma Museum takes you back to the roots, with snapshots of local history and insights into craft traditions. Stay the night at Hotelli Vanha Rauma , lodged in a warehouse in the old fish market, to go even deeper.

7. Go deep into the wild in Urho Kekkonen National Park

This is the big one. With its off-the-map location and off-the-charts beauty, Urho Kekkonen National Park in Lapland is Finland’s largest national park, covering a whopping 2550 sq km (1548 sq miles) of forest and fell as it ripples east of Saariselkä to the Russian border. If you’re into long-distance hiking or cross-country skiing, it doesn’t get better than here, where you can pad for miles in utter solitude through old-growth forests of pine, spruce, and birch, crossing fast-flowing brooks and clambering up fells of myth, including 486m (1594ft) Korvatunturi, the spiritual home of Santa.

The wildlife is as phenomenal as you might expect. While the big predators (bears, wolverines, wolves, and lynx) keep a low profile, you can expect to see reindeer, moose, and plenty of birdlife, including eagles. But just as special is the kind of silence you only find this far north. Bring a backpack and sleep in a hiker’s hut or wild camp under the midnight sun.

8. Spend a very cool night in an igloo or snow hotel

If ever you’ve nurtured a dream of snuggling down on a reindeer hide in an igloo as the flakes fall thick and fast or the northern lights come out to play, Lapland delivers with its flurry of snow hotels and glass-roofed domes. The temperatures plummet well below zero, but don’t worry – expedition-grade sleeping bags or thermal duvets keep you toasty, and at the luxe end of the spectrum, there are saunas, hot tubs, and ice bars serving hot grog to keep you warm.  

Frosty favorites where you can sleep on an artistically made bed of ice include the Lumihotelli in Kemi and the lakefront Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi. If you fancy gazing at the northern lights from your bed instead, try the laser-heated, glass-roofed cabins at Wilderness Hotel Inari or the aurora bubbles at Wilderness Hotel Nellim .  

9. Delve into Helsinki’s design scene

Finland moves to an alternative beat when it comes to design, and in Helsinki you can dive in at the deep end. Swinging from outrageously bold to slick and functional in the classic Scandi mold, the capital harbors a line-up of excellent design shops. Pin down the best with a wander in the Punavuori backstreets in the heart of its Design District . If 20th-century design rocks your boat, you can easily spend an entire morning absorbed in prints that pop at Marimekko , modernist lines at Artek , and eye-catching glassware at Iittala . 

For more insight into the origins of Finnish design and its cutting-edge, visit the Design Museum ; the website has details of its free guided tours in English.  

10. Cycle in the Åland Islands

Sprinkled like stepping stones off the country’s southwest tip, the self-governing Åland Islands speak Swedish yet are technically Finnish. And they are beautiful. These 6700 islands – many of them just nameless specks of pink granite – have an almost dreamlike quality, with painterly light, reflecting waters, forests, and blonde-sand beaches easing ever so gently into the Baltic. Cycling is the way to go, with ferries hopping between islands and flat trails that make pedaling a breeze, zipping from castle to orchard, medieval church to windmill. Rent your wheels in the capital, Mariehamn , and set off in spring or autumn when the islands are at their quiet best. 

11. Go Moomin crazy

Go on, admit it: you came to Finland for the Moomins. You are not alone. Just about everyone has a secret soft spot for the weird-looking, cute white hippo-like characters (well, apparently they are actually large-snouted trolls…) that are so magically brought to life in Tove Jansson’s tales.

Join the kids in the Moomin house, cave, workshop, and nature trail at Muumimaailma (Moomin World), which sits on its own island just off the coast of Turku . Or for more of a cultural Moomin experience, head north to the imaginatively thought-out Moomin Museum in Tampere , which is stuffed with original illustrations and dioramas. 

12. Play in the snow in Lapland

Lapland in the deep freeze of winter is full-on Narnia, with its snow-blanketed fells, tundra, and forests. Some might be content to hibernate in a little cabin and watch the flakes flutter, but chances are you’ll be itching to get out and play. The options are boundless, whether you want to dogsled, snowmobile, cross-country ski, snowshoe into the icy wilds, or dash off on a reindeer-driven sleigh as the aurora flickers overhead. Levi and Ylläs come tops for crowd-free skiing and perfect powder. Or for the whole snow fun shebang, try Rovaniemi , Inari , and, farther north still , Utsjoki.

If that’s not quite intrepid enough, there’s always aurora ice floating in Rovaniemi. Kitted out in an Arctic survival suit, you’ll float on a frozen lake, peering up at the northern lights. It’s mad and magical. 

13. Shop at the local food markets

If you want to see Finnish food in all its wild, wonderful bounty, get yourself over to the nearest kauppahalli (covered market). Helsinki’s glorious late 19th-century market hall is a fantastic place to stock up on everything from reindeer steaks to forest berries and herbs, artisan cheeses, and ham slowly roasted over alder logs in a traditional smoke sauna. You’ll also find a tempting array of cafes, where you can grab a coffee and korvapuusti (cinnamon bun), or a lunch special like cured salmon on homemade rye bread. Try the harbor front Story for brunch under soaring arches.

The historic covered markets in Tampere and Turku are equally great for picnic fixings or lunch on the hoof. In summer, the action spills outside to the kauppatori (market square), where stalls are laden with everything from wild mushrooms to golden cloudberries.

14. Tune into Sámi culture

It’s a much-cited fact that Lapland’s Sámi people have 200 words to describe snow, but more incredible is the 1000 words they have for reindeer. The reindeer have been their lifeblood for many centuries in the stark, dark, bitterly cold north. Spending time among the Sámi gives an astonishing insight into their nature-bound, season-driven way of life, whether it’s listening to the haunting sound of the joik (rhythmic poem) around a hissing campfire in a lavvu tent, or meeting reindeer under the flash of the northern lights.

The Sámi capital, Inari , is a great starting point. Here you can get the inside scoop on Sámi life, from their semi-nomadic past to modern times at the cutting-edge Siida museum, and immerse yourself in the wilderness of nearby Lemmenjoki National Park .

15. Hang out with brown bears

Watching a bear emerge from the dense forests of Russia to lollop across the swamps in search of a midnight snack is one of those magic moments you’ll be raving about forever more. Out on a limb and properly immersed in the wooded wilderness, Lentiira on the Finnish–Russian border is one of Europe’s most outstanding places to observe brown bears in their natural environment. Though there are never any guarantees, the odds are brilliant during the bear-watching season (April to October) at the conservation-focused  Wild Brown Bear Centre. Every season works its charm – from the cubs and snows of spring to the never-dying light of midsummer and richly colored foliage of fall.

The bears here are shy but harmless. Keep quiet in your hide or – for greater privacy – a family-sized luxury lodge, and you’ll see plenty. Besides bears, you might also spot wolverines, wolves, and elk if you’re lucky.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated November 2023

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Finland

Written by Jim O'Donnell and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 26, 2022

From the vibrant art-filled cities of Helsinki and Turku to the depths of the boreal forests and the thinly inhabited outer archipelago, Finland offers a wealth of attractions and beautiful places to visit.

It's also a relatively unknown corner of Europe, likely because it is so far from the mainstream tourist routes, but the country's many cultural and historical sites add to the unspoiled natural surroundings to make it an ideal destination.

Finland's lakes, fells, rivers, and vast wild areas, along with the certainty of snow in the winter make it a Nordic playground for both winter and summer activities.

Helsinki is the main point of entry for most visitors to Finland. The busy Baltic port is where you'll find the most important museums, as well as architecture by some of the greatest Finnish architects, and numerous things to do.

Within easy reach of Helsinki are the charming smaller cities of Turku and Porvoo. But it would be a shame to confine a trip only to the Baltic coast, when so much beautiful open countryside beckons. To the west lie the Finnish lakes, and in the north is the vast area beyond the Arctic Circle, home of the midnight sun, northern lights, and some of Europe's best winter sports.

Winter or summer, Finland offers plenty of things to do. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Finland.

1. Suomenlinna Fortress

2. kauppatori (market square) and esplanadi, 3. rovaniemi and the arctic, 4. helsinki churches, 5. go skiing or ride a dogsled, 6. shop and browse in helsinki's design district, 7. watch the northern lights, 8. åland archipelago, 11. lake saimaa and savonlinna, 13. tampere, 14. lemmenjoki national park, 16. hameenlinna, 17. ranua wildlife park.

One of the world's largest sea fortresses , the 18th-century fort on Suomenlinna is a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki's Market Square (a mini-cruise that has lovely views of the city as a bonus attraction).

The main point of interest is the fortress-castle whose construction was begun in 1748 during an era of Swedish rule, originally named Sveaborg. In 1808, troops surrendered the fortress to invading Russians, and its condition deteriorated over the following century.

Finally, after independence was regained in 1917, the Finns took control of the fortifications and began the slow process of restoring the landmark. It was an active submarine base during World War II , and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.

Begin with the audio-visual experience in the visitor center (it's in English) for a lively history, then explore its ramparts, tunnels, and museums and walk the trails around the beautiful island. Or sign up here for a guided walk to learn more about the fort and its various attractions. Among these are the 250-ton Vesikko submarine, used by the Finnish Navy from 1936 until the end of World War II.

The Ehrensvärd Museum illustrates the earliest Swedish period, and the Doll and Toy Museum displays dolls, dollhouses, and toys in an old Russian villa. Various buildings house studios and shops of glassblowers, potters, and other craftsmen, and in the summer, you can stay for evening dance and musical performances of the Suomenlinna Summer Theatre .

Official site: https://www.suomenlinna.fi/en

Helsinki's harbor is an integral part of the city, whose important landmarks overlook it. It's also a popular gathering point, with an open-air market of local farmers, craftsmen, food producers, and fishermen , who sell directly from their boats.

You may catch the fragrance of salmon cooking over cedar planks beside the boats, and depending on the season see a rainbow of glistening ripe berries or baskets of foraged woodland mushrooms. The historic 1889 market hall shelters more food vendors, but the outdoor market is a year-round tradition, protected by tarps and tents in the winter.

Stretching from one side of the Market Square, the open swath of the Esplanadi is where the entire city seems to congregate on summer evenings. The tree-lined promenade is bordered by elegant buildings and a pavilion houses the Kappeli Restaurant, whose terrace is especially popular on summer evenings when there are concerts in the bandstand.

A fountain, another work by Eliel Saarinen, supports a statue of Havis Amanda, Helsinki's symbol. Helsinki's most unusual museum, the Street Museum , climbs from market Square to Senate Square, a one-block progression from the early 1800s to the 1930s, with paving surfaces, street lights, mail boxes, and phone booths changing with each era.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Helsinki & Easy Day Trips

The Arctic Circle runs across northern Finland, right through the town of Rovaniemi, giving it claim to being the Gateway to the Arctic . In the summer, this means the famous Midnight Sun .

While the sun only stays above the horizon for a full 24 hours in Rovaniemi on the summer solstice in late June, from late May to early August it never drops far enough for it to get dark. Locals are out enjoying their great outdoors throughout these "White Nights" and welcome tourists to join them.

Rovaniemi is in the center of a vast natural area of rushing rivers for canoeing, swimming, or fishing, with trails alongside them for hiking and cycling. The city is best known (ask any Finnish child) as the home of Santa Claus, right astride the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village . You can meet reindeer here or visit a Sami reindeer farm.

To learn more about the Lapland culture and about the natural history, meteorology and geology of the Arctic, visit the stunning Arktikum Science Museum .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Rovaniemi

Three of the top places to visit in Helsinki are churches, two of them cathedrals and the third a landmark of modern architecture. Uspensky Orthodox Cathedral rises dramatically above the east side of the harbor, its 13 green-topped spires ending in gold cupolas. This is western Europe's largest Orthodox church, its interior glowing with gold, icons, crosses, altars, and intricately decorated arches. The cathedral serves Helsinki's large Russian population, and visitors are welcome.

On the hill directly behind the harbor and an equally visible landmark to those approaching Helsinki by sea, the huge Neoclassical Lutheran Cathedral is so close and so large that it appears to be standing on the roofs of the harbor-front buildings. The tall green dome and broad steps of the early 19th-century cathedral form the majestic focal point of Senate Square.

The buildings facing the square complete a harmonious enclosure, one of Europe's most beautiful public squares. It is used frequently for celebrations and as the starting point of parades. In December, the entire square is filled with booths selling beautiful local crafts and holiday foods.

While these two cathedrals are firmly in the traditions of their denomination, Temppeliaukio Church is an architectural experiment, carved into solid rock on a relatively small space in the center of the city. Architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen designed the church, covering it with a rounded, woven copper roof supported by concrete spokes. The acoustics created by the combination of copper and stone are remarkable, making this a popular venue for musical concerts of all styles.

In the winter, the Arctic region is a paradise for skiers and others who love snow and ice sports. You can ride across frozen lakes and visit Sami villages on a dogsled safari , learn to drive your own reindeer sled, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for miles, and watch the spectacular northern lights.

Downhill skiers should head about 170 kilometers north of Rovaniemi to Levi , a center for all winter recreation, with miles of scenic Nordic ski trails, lighted for night skiing. So are the pistes and slopes of Finland's largest downhill ski area. Many hotels at Levi have rooms with glass ceilings, so you can watch the northern lights from inside.

The epicenter of modern Scandinavian design, Helsinki has an entire district devoted to studios, galleries, and even antique shops dedicated to Finish designers and their work. Whether you're shopping or just looking, a few hours in these neighborhoods is a chance to experience this vibrant facet of Finnish arts and culture.

Design District Helsinki brings together creative people in the central neighborhoods of Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi, and Ullanlinna, where you'll find boutiques, galleries, and studios devoted to contemporary designs in fashion, jewelry, furnishings, tableware and everyday items.

Along with the shops, you can arrange visits to some designer studios, such as Raaka Rå (organic pottery) and Paja (artisan jewelry) to see craftspeople at work; contact them through the Design District website. You'll also find shops specializing in design-driven antiques and vintage Finnish designs, such as Art.fi and Artek 2nd Cycle.

For an overview (and a great shop) visit the Design Forum Finland on Erottajankatu, which showcases the best of Finnish design in everything from dishes to paperclips. To see how Finnish design and craftsmanship have developed, and see some outstanding examples from the past, visit the Design Museum in the Kaartinkaupunki neighborhood.

Official site: https://designdistrict.fi/en/

For most people, seeing these blazing curtains of light drape across the sky is a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights . Although, at times, the lights can be seen even in the southern most regions of the nation, the best place to see them is in the region close to or north of the Arctic Circle.

Here, between September and March, visitors are almost guaranteed a show if the sky is clear. A wide range of hotels in the north cater specifically to people wanting to see the lights. Also, the Finnish Meteorological Institute allows you to sign up for free Northern Lights email alerts.

The Åland Islands (or Åland) are an autonomous archipelago between Sweden and Finland. A predominantly Swedish-speaking province of Finland, Åland is comprised of a few large islands and nearly 10,000 smaller ones. Åland has a unique history. It was ceded to Russia by Sweden in 1809. In 1854, a combined British/French fleet took the islands, destroying the fortress. After that, the entire archipelago was demilitarized and remains so to this day.

About 27,500 people live in Åland, with about 11,000 in the main town of Mariehamn . The main industry of the islands has always been shipping and trade, so the Maritime Museum, the Museum Ship Pommern, and the Maritime Quarter in Mariehamn are worth seeing to understand the islands' fascinating maritime history.

Also worth a visit is the Jan Karlsgården open-air museum in Kastelholm, where you can see what a typical island farm looked like around 1890. However, the big draw to Åland these days is its unspoiled nature and beautiful landscapes.

On midsummer's eve, Åland holds a massive and ancient celebration marking the longest day of the year. The lovely landscapes and seascapes make it a favorite with artists, and their studios and galleries are popular with tourists, who arrive by boat from Turku and Stockholm.

The southwestern Finnish town of Turku, the country's oldest town and until 1812 its capital, lies on the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Aurajoki River. Turku lies in the area where the successors to the Swedish Vikings landed in the 12th century and set out to conquer what is now Finland.

With eight centuries of history, it is today the most traditional medieval town in Finland, but in addition to its outstanding medieval buildings, you'll find examples of Art Nouveau and modern architecture, such as the Sibelius Museum , by Woldemar Baeckman.

The river is a focal point for the city, lined with historic boats, some of which have been converted into restaurants. In the summer, locals gather along its banks in the evening and in the winter, it becomes a giant skating rink.

On the northeast side of the river is the commercial center with the Kaupatori (market square) shopping center and lovely Orthodox Church . On the opposite bank the medieval cathedral , consecrated in 1290, rises above the Old Great Square . It is a massive brick church in Late Romanesque style with Gothic and Renaissance additions and a massive 97-meter-high tower, which dominates the city.

During the midsummer Medieval Festival , the old square's ensemble of historic buildings regains its medieval air with craft stalls and food vendors.

Just down from the cathedral along the river, two old sailing ships are moored - the "Suomen Joutsen," now a training school for seamen, and the "Sigyn," the last remaining wooden barque used for sea trade. Both are open to the public in summer.

Nearer the harbor is Turku Castle, built around 1300 on what was then an island at the mouth of the river. It was enlarged in the 16th to 17th century and now houses the Turku Historical Museum .

For a look at what Turku looked like in the early 1800s, stroll through the streets of the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum , an entire neighborhood of 40 homes, the only ones saved in the fire that destroyed Turku in 1827. Preserved as a museum village, its homes and workshops now house artisans who demonstrate period crafts.

The country's second oldest town, Porvoo, is 48 kilometers east of Helsinki. It rises from a picturesque riverfront lined with little red wooden buildings, through a charming tangle of old streets and ochre-colored wooden houses to its hilltop medieval cathedral . Highlights here are the ornate 1764 pulpit and wall paintings from the 15th century.

Between the river and the hilltop cathedral is the Market Square with two museums worth visiting. One has exhibits on local history and the other, the Edelfelt-Vallgren Museum , is of particular interest to those fascinated by the Art Nouveau movement. It features the furniture, ceramics, and other works of several artists who formed an art colony here at the turn of the 20th century.

Porvoo is still known for its fine crafts, so allow time for browsing the shops and studios. In the summer, you can visit Porvoo from Helsinki by boat.

The entire eastern portion of Finland is more sea than land. With literally tens of thousands of lakes, rivers, marshes, and ponds, eastern Finland is a fabulous aquatic playground. The dominant lake of the region is massive Lake Saimaa , the "lake of a thousand islands." Lake Saimaa itself has an area of some 1,300 square kilometers - excluding its numerous islands.

The whole lake system is drained by the river Vuoksi, which leaves Lake Saimaa to the north of the town of Imatra and flows into Lake Ladoga in Russia. The hilly shores of the lake and most of the islands are almost entirely covered with coniferous forest, with some birch forest farther north.

Savonlinna is the main city of Finland's lake region. A popular spa and holiday resort, Savonlinna grew up around Olavinlinna Castle, begun in 1475 and Europe's northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing.

The castle, which has been beautifully restored, contains a number of handsome rooms, among them the King's or Knights' Hall , the Congress Hall , and the Great Hall . Three massive round towers have survived, and in one of them, the Church Tower , is a small chapel. In the Great Bastion is a summer café.

East of Savonlinna lies Kerimäki and the largest wooden church in the world. A must do when in the lake region are the boat cruises. From Savonlinna, there are boat trips to the other towns on Lake Saimaa, to Punkaharju , with the Retretti Art Center , the largest in the Nordic countries, to the monasteries of Uusi Valamo and Lintula . Another day trip option is a cruise down the Saimaa Canal to Vyborg in Russia on the Baltic Sea.

Established in the 1300s, Vaasa was an important town in the time that Sweden ruled Finland. The original town burned down in 1852 and was relocated six kilometers northwest near a better harbor. The ruins of the old city are now a giant park (Vanha Vaasa, Gamla Vasa).

The town is about 34 percent Swedish speaking and retains many ties to Sweden. Surrounded by a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and shops, the large market place is the center of city life. This peaceful town offers plenty of attractions. Visitors can walk along the waterfront, which begins in front of the town and extends for miles along the coast.

Other attractions include the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art, down at the harbor, the Ostrobothnian Museum, the Terranova Kvarken Nature Center , the Tikanoja Art Museum, and the Vaasa Maritime Museum .

Just to the east of the city center, on an island, is Tropiclandia and tropical spa , a waterpark inside a heated dome packed with pools, slides, and saunas. South of Vaasa is the famed Söderfjärden crater caused by a meteor millions of years ago. To the north lies the Kvarken National Park , a wild archipelago hosting many great hikes and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Vaasa also hosts a number of notable cultural events, including the Night of the Arts ; the Korsholm Music Festival , one of the most noted of chamber music festivals; and the Vaasa Choir Festival . Vaasa claims to be the sunniest town in all of Finland, so soak up some rays on one of the many beaches.

Founded in 1779 as an industrial settlement, Tampere is Finland's third largest town, but doesn't feel like a large urban center. It lies between two lakes: Näsijärvi, to the north, and Pyhäjärvi, to the south, which are linked by the Tammerkoski , a stretch of rapids nearly a kilometer long.

Along with its industry, Tampere is known for its active cultural life with an open-air theater and frequent festivals. These include the November Tampere Jazz Happening , a tradition now for more than 35 years, when world-renowned names in jazz perform throughout the city in small concert venues and clubs.

In the Vapriikki Museum, you'll find the Natural History Museum and other exhibitions. Three churches are of note: Tampere Cathedral is known for its unusual paintings and frescoes depicting skeletons in black hooded capes, created in the early 1900s by Finnish symbolist painter Hugo Simberg.

The Kaleva Church, a soaring concrete building constructed in the 1960s has a floor plan in the shape of a fish, an ancient Christian symbol. The green-domed brick Orthodox Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky and Saint Nicholas has a sumptuously decorated interior.

Anyone seeking an Arctic wilderness experience will love Lemmenjoki National Park. The tract of boreal forest is the largest park in Finland and one of the most extensive chunks of wildlands in all of Europe, covering more than 2,589 square kilometers. For the trekker, there are hundreds of kilometers of marked trails, as well as free and open wilderness huts and more sophisticated rental huts with sauna and campfire places.

The namesake of the park, the Lemmenjoki River, is a sight to behold as it flows down from the fells into a stunning valley of towering pines. Visitors can either rent a boat or take a tour. This is the place to find brown bear, wolves, and wild golden eagles, as well as moose and reindeer.

Sweet little Oulu lies near the north end of the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Oulujoki river. It began as a village clustered around the late 16th-century castle built by King John III of Sweden on the island of Linnansaari at the mouth of the Oulujoki.

At the north end of the busy Kirkkokatu stands the c athedral , originally built in 1770-72. Beyond, at the north end of Kirkkokatu, a small bridge leads into the beautiful island of Ainola , where you'll find a park and the Provincial Museum . Farther north is the Botanic Garden, and on the island of Hupisaari, a summer theater.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Tietomaa Science Center to the east of the Oulu Botanic Garden. In the summer, spend some time at the Market Square over coffee and classic Finnish pastries. A few kilometers up the Oulujoki is the island of Turkansaari , once the home of Russian traders in the city and now an open-air museum.

Like many Finnish towns, Hämeenlinna began near a castle, in this case the 13th-century Tavastehus Castle . Its distinctive red-brick fortifications top the list of places to see in Hameenlinna. The other place you shouldn't miss seeing is Aulanko Nature Reserve . Part garden park, part forest reserve, it is the first National Urban Park in Finland.

The English-style park was constructed between 1883 and 1938, and in addition to hiking its well-kept trails among exotic and native trees, you can climb the 30-meter-tall granite tower on Aulangonvuori Hill for views across a typical Finnish forest and lake landscape. More than 50 different species of trees and shrubs are identified along the nature trail round Lake Joutsenlampi. Two historic pavilions and the ruins of a late 19th-century castle are also in the park.

Hämeenlinna was the birthplace of the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) and north of the market Square is the Sibelius Museum; a little bit farther on is the Sibelius Park and the nearby Hämeenlinna Historical Museum .

This park is part zoo and part wildlife preserve, home to more than 50 species of animals who call the arctic their home. Their most famous residents are Venus and Manse, the only polar bears residing in Finland . The park is naturally home to many reindeer, as well as the smaller wild forest reindeer and several varieties of deer.

Other park residents include large mammals like moose and brown bear, canines like the Arctic fox, grey wolf, and the dhole, and smaller animals like mink, otter, and stoat. There is also quite a variety of owls and geese, as well as several eagles and other birds. Visitors can stroll the grounds for a self-guided tour or book an "arctic safari" to learn more about the animals and their habitat.

Address: Rovaniementie 29, 97700 Ranua, Finland

Official site: https://english.ranuazoo.com

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Exploring Finland's Neighbor: After seeing so many hints of Swedish culture in Finland, which was a part of Sweden for much of its history, you may be intrigued by this neighbor just across the Gulf of Bothnia. A short flight or overnight ferry trip will bring you to Stockholm and its archipelago. PlanetWare's article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden can help you plan travels throughout the country.

More of Scandinavia : Norway is connected to Sweden by land, and thanks to the new Øresund Bridge, you can also reach Denmark by bus, train, or car. To see the best of these countries and their lively capitals of Copenhagen and Oslo, take a look at our articles on the Top Tourist Attractions in Norway and Top Tourist Attractions in Denmark .

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14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland

Finland has had a turbulent history. Occupied by the Swedes and later the Russians, the country was finally granted independence in 1917. A number of hallmarks of this colorful past remain scattered throughout the country, in the form of captivating ruins, meandering cobblestone streets, and towering fortresses.

However, Finland is most famed for its incredible natural beauty. Crystal clear lakes, stunning island archipelagos, and towards the north, pristine winter wonderlands dominate the landscape. Meanwhile, modern cities and towns stay in tune with the times by offering world-class dining and accommodation options. Here’s a look at the top tourist attractions in Finland:

14. Old Rauma

The small city of Rauma was founded in the 1300’s, making it one of the most ancient towns in Finland. The old section of the township is characterized by colorful, historical buildings and winding, cobblestone streets. Many cafes and restaurants line the recently restored Market Square in the old town.

The area is well-known for its traditional bobbin lace making trade, and there is an annual Lace Week to celebrate this traditional local skill. In addition to these points of interest, a number of churches with celebrated frescos dating back to the Middle Ages and beyond are well worth taking some time to explore.

13. Turku Castle

This magnificent castle has been standing since the late 13th century. Along with Turku Cathedral, which was built at the same time, it is the oldest occupied building in Finland. The impressive structure overlooks the Aura River and has become Turku’s most iconic building. Originally constructed as a military fortress, it changed hands many times throughout medieval era. Today, Turku Castle is one of the most visited museums in Finland and renowned for its grandeur.

During the summer months, there are daily tours of the castle. If visitors are exploring on their own, they will need at least half a day to truly make the most of this amazing spot, as the castle is filled to the brim with twisting passages, period furniture, multiple exhibits and outdoor courtyards.

12. Helsinki Cathedral

The capital city of Helsinki is home to a magnificent church: the Helsinki Cathedral. However, it is not your classically envisioned church, it celebrates a unique, neo-classical style of architecture. Construction began on the cathedral in 1830, and it finally opened its doors in 1852 as a Finnish Evangelical Lutheran church.

Twelve statues of Jesus’ apostles stand guard on the roof outside the cathedral, which overlooks the city and its harbor. After visiting, most tourists head over to Market Square, which is lined with various food stalls and restaurants featuring heated patios, making it the ideal place for a bite to eat.

11. Sami Culture in Inari

The Sami people are the only officially recognized aboriginal people living within the European Union. Many have maintained their traditional livelihoods, which consist of hunting and gathering, small-scale farming, and reindeer herding, although they have recently made a shift towards tourism and handicrafts.

Inari is the focal point for the Sami people. It is the place to go to learn about their fascinating culture and traditions. It is here in Inari that the Sami parliament lives, which governs over their linguistic and cultural operations. Inari is also home to the Sami Museum, Sami Cultural Centre, and welcomes visitors to traditional reindeer farms. Outside of the municipality lie multiple, sprawling wilderness parks.

10. Lake Saimaa

Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland, and home to well over ten thousand islands. The area has been aptly nicknamed Lakeland. Made up of winding waterways, lush green islands and dense forests, it is extremely popular with Finnish cottagers, and visiting tourists; with kayaking and trekking being the area’s most popular activities.

The region has a rich history with steamboats, which were used as transport before cars became widely available. However, these days the area is all about slowing down and simply enjoying the pristine landscapes surrounding Lake Saimaa.

9. Suomenlinna Fortress

During the Swedish reign in Finland, the Swedes built Suomenlinna Fortress upon six islands. It was designed as a military fortress and is strategically located at the entrance of Helsinki Harbor. Construction started in the 18th century, and the fortress was ruled over by the Swedes, Russians, and Finnish.

After the Finnish were granted independence in 1917 they renamed the fortress Suomenlinna Fortress, which translates to the Fortress of Finland. Today, over 800 inhabitants live in Suomenlinna, mostly operating within the tourism industry.

8. Urho Kekkonen National Park

This national park is the second largest in Finland. It is very diverse and attracts hikers, trekkers, and skiers. There are still some indigenous Sami people who practice traditional reindeer herding within the area. As such, reindeer, and husky safaris can be enjoyed here.

Reaching all the way to the Russian border in the north, Korvatunturi or Ear Fell, is famous among the Finnish as the home of Santa Claus. Clear streams, deep gorges and rolling hills make up the stunning natural landscape, which changes dramatically from season to season, transitioning from verdant green to sparkling white.

7. Skiing in Levi

Visitors come to Levi for its incredible skiing. The world-class slopes are nearly empty most of the year, lines for the chair lifts are non-existent, and the area generates regular snowfall. Facilities in Levi are modern and clean.

There are a number of dining and nightlife options that cater to the skiers at Levi Resort, and even if skiing is not your cup of tea, there are many other snow-related activities in the vicinity, including snowmobiling, husky and reindeer safaris, and snow shoeing. Visitors should not miss visiting Levin Iglut Resort while in the area, famous for its glass-roofed igloos.

6. Olavinlinna Castle

Sitting on an island overlooking Lake Saimaa, Olvinlinna Castle is truly magnificent. Built to strategically protect the Savo Region, it became an important fortification against attacks from the Russians in the east.

Every year since 1912, the castle holds its Annual Opera Festival, which attracts guests from around the world. The castle is open to the public daily and offers an impressive guided tour, which divulges all the secrets hiding within the castle walls.

5. Old Porvoo

The riverside town of Porvoo is Finland’s second oldest. It has become iconic for the ruby red wooden houses that line the Porvoonjoki River on the edge of town. The river flows out into the Gulf of Finland, connecting Porvoo to Helsinki, and during the summertime a charming steamboat transports visitors between the two places.

Cobblestone streets and quaint wooden houses are the standard here, along with many trendy shops and restaurants with open-air patios. The town boasts idyllic parks, an open market square, and picturesque landmark buildings. This is a great place for a weekend getaway, a day trip from the capital, or even a relaxing, longer holiday.

4. Experience a Finnish Sauna

Finnish houses are unique in the sense that almost every home has a sauna. This is truly a national tradition. In fact, the Finns invented the concept. Saunas are a wooden room, attached or apart from the home, heated by steam from hot rocks.

The classic experience includes shedding your clothes, entering the steamy room, and jumping in a lake or river afterwards. It is polite to have a shower before entering the sauna. Even if you don’t know any locals to join with, many resorts offer this classic Finnish experience for guests.

3. Aland Islands

This tiny region of Finland contains the nation’s only Swedes speaking majority. The archipelago is located in the Baltic sea south of mainland Finland. The well-developed roads and ferry system make island hopping easy. The most popular activities in the area include visiting the capital of Mariehamn, exploring abandoned medieval ruins, or adventuring around deserted islands.

The capital has a cosmopolitan dining and accommodation scene. Outside of the city, visitors can enjoy the gorgeous seascapes, or have a go at kayaking, hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.

2. Snow Castle of Kemi

Each year Kemi welcomes visitors to the world’s largest fort made of ice. In the spring it melts, and each winter they rebuild the wonderland with slightly new architectural designs. The area includes a hotel, restaurant (with ice mugs!), art gallery, and even a chapel.

The hotel rooms can be viewed during the day, and visitors come from around the world to be married or christened in the chapel. The Snow Castle is open from January to April, when temperatures are at their coldest, but there are now plans to build a Snow Castle in 2019 that will last year-round.

1. Northern Lights in Lapland

The Northern Lights should be experienced by everyone at least once in their lives, and Lapland offers the full glory of this natural spectacle up close and personal. On a clear and starry night in winter, visitors have an extremely high chance of witnessing this magical phenomenon.

The evanescent hues of green, blue, yellow, purple and red dancing across the sky will make you feel like you are in a fairytale.

Map of Things to Do in Finland

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• Travel Destinations

Top Tips: Where, How And Why To Visit Finland

Published: October 6, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Karleen Stromberg

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to the land of a thousand lakes, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage – Finland. Located in Northern Europe, Finland is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From its vibrant cities to its breathtaking natural beauty, Finland has something to offer every visitor.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, Finland has a myriad of attractions and activities to cater to your interests. Immerse yourself in the Finnish way of life, indulge in delicious cuisine, and explore the country’s picturesque landscapes.

Finland is known for its excellent quality of life, high safety standards, and friendly locals. The country seamlessly combines modernity with traditional values, making it a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

In this article, we will provide you with insider tips on where to visit, how to get there, and why Finland should be on your travel bucket list.

So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure to Finland!

Visa requirements for visiting Finland

If you’re planning to visit Finland, it’s essential to check whether you need a visa before traveling. The visa requirements for Finland vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your stay.

Finland is part of the Schengen Area, which means that visitors from countries within the Schengen Area do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. These countries include most European Union (EU) member states, as well as Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.

If you are a citizen of a non-Schengen country, you may need to apply for a Schengen visa in advance. This visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, including Finland, for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

To apply for a Schengen visa, you will generally need the following documents:

• A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date
• A completed visa application form
• Proof of travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000
• Proof of accommodation in Finland
• Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover your stay
• Round-trip flight itinerary

It’s important to note that the visa application process can take some time, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your planned trip.

Additionally, if you’re traveling to Finland for purposes other than tourism, such as work or study, different visa requirements may apply. It’s recommended to consult the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Remember to double-check the visa requirements before your trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to Finland!

Best time to visit Finland

When planning a trip to Finland, the timing of your visit can greatly impact your experience. Finland experiences distinct seasons, each offering its own unique charm and activities.

Winter (December to February) is a magical time to visit Finland, especially if you’re hoping to witness the stunning Northern Lights. The country is transformed into a winter wonderland, with pristine snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes. It’s also the perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even husky sledding.

Spring (March to May) brings milder temperatures and the reawakening of nature. It’s a great time to visit if you want to experience the enchanting phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains above the horizon for nearly 24 hours a day. Spring is also the ideal season to explore Finland’s national parks and witness the blooming of vibrant wildflowers.

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Finland. The weather is pleasant and allows for a wide range of outdoor activities. The long days and midnight sun make it a perfect time for hiking, fishing, boating, and enjoying the numerous festivals and cultural events that take place across the country. The famous Midnight Sun Marathon in Rovaniemi is a highlight for sports enthusiasts.

Autumn (September to November) ushers in the colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit Finland. The landscapes are adorned with hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and photography. Autumn is also an excellent time to witness the Northern Lights as the dark nights return.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Finland depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. Each season offers its own unique experiences and natural wonders, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most out of your trip to this remarkable destination.

How to get to Finland

Getting to Finland is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected transportation infrastructure. Whether you’re traveling by air, sea, or land, there are several convenient options available.

By Air: Finland has numerous international airports, with Helsinki Airport being the busiest and the primary entry point for most travelers. Helsinki Airport offers direct flights from major cities around the world, making it easily accessible for international visitors. Other airports, such as Rovaniemi, Turku, and Tampere, also have connections to select European destinations.

By Sea: If you prefer a more leisurely journey, you can reach Finland by ferry. Several ferry companies operate regular services between Finland and neighboring countries. The most popular routes are from Sweden (Stockholm, Turku, and Helsinki), Estonia (Tallinn), and Germany (Travemünde).

By Train: Finland is well connected to its neighboring countries through an extensive rail network. Trains operated by VR, the national railway company, offer comfortable and efficient connections to Russia, Sweden, and Norway. The Allegro train between Helsinki and St. Petersburg is a popular option for travelers visiting Finland from Russia.

By Bus: An affordable and convenient way to reach Finland is by bus. There are several international bus companies that operate routes to major Finnish cities, including Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Oulu. Buses provide a cost-effective option for those traveling from neighboring countries such as Sweden, Estonia, and Russia.

By Car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, you can enter Finland by car through various border crossings. Finland has well-maintained roads and is connected to neighboring countries through an extensive network of highways. Keep in mind that you may need to have the necessary permits and insurance when driving across international borders.

Once you arrive in Finland, public transportation within the country is reliable and efficient. Trains, buses, and trams are readily available in most cities, making it easy to explore different regions of the country.

Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, traveling to Finland is an exciting journey that sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure in this captivating Nordic country.

Where to stay in Finland

When it comes to finding accommodation in Finland, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The country offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and travel style.

Hotels: From luxury five-star hotels to cozy boutique accommodations, Finland has a diverse selection of hotels that cater to different preferences. Helsinki, the capital city, is home to numerous international hotel chains and boutique hotels, offering a range of amenities and services. Other major cities like Tampere, Turku, and Rovaniemi also have a variety of hotel options to choose from.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a social atmosphere, hostels are a popular choice. Finland has a network of hostels located in major cities and popular tourist destinations. Hostels often provide dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces where you can meet fellow travelers and exchange experiences.

Cottages and Cabins: If you want to immerse yourself in nature, consider staying in a traditional Finnish cottage or cabin. These accommodations are commonly found in rural areas and near lakes, offering a tranquil retreat amidst stunning surroundings. You can find cottages of various sizes, equipped with the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: Another charming option for accommodation in Finland is guesthouses and bed & breakfasts. These family-run establishments provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can experience Finnish hospitality firsthand while enjoying cozy rooms and homemade breakfast.

Saunas and Wilderness Huts: For a unique and authentic Finnish experience, you can stay in saunas or wilderness huts. Saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture, and some establishments offer accommodations where you can enjoy private saunas along with your stay. Wilderness huts, on the other hand, are basic shelters located in remote areas, perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts. They provide a place to rest and spend the night while exploring Finland’s beautiful wilderness.

Apartments and Vacation Rentals: If you prefer the comfort and convenience of having your own space, renting an apartment or vacation home is a great option. There are several platforms and agencies that offer a wide selection of apartments and vacation rentals in Finland. This is an ideal choice for those traveling with family or seeking a longer stay.

When choosing your accommodation, consider the location, amenities, and proximity to the attractions you plan to visit. Whether you prefer urban luxury or rustic charm, Finland has accommodation options to suit every traveler’s taste.

Must-visit tourist attractions in Finland

Finland is a land of extraordinary natural beauty and captivating cultural sites. Here are some of the must-visit tourist attractions that should be on your Finland itinerary:

• Helsinki: Start your Finnish adventure in the vibrant capital city of Helsinki. Visit the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, explore the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and wander around the bustling Market Square. Don’t miss the Temppeliaukio Church, also known as the Rock Church, carved directly into solid rock.
• Lapland: Journey to the northernmost region of Finland, Lapland, and immerse yourself in the magical winter wonderland. Experience the thrill of crossing the Arctic Circle, visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, and embark on a memorable reindeer or husky sleigh ride. Witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the night sky is a bucket-list experience.
• Rovaniemi: Aside from being the gateway to Lapland, Rovaniemi offers its own enchanting attractions. Explore the Arktikum museum to learn about Arctic ecosystems and indigenous Sami culture. Visit the unique Santa Park, an underground cavern where it’s Christmas all year round.
• Lake Saimaa: Discover the tranquility and stunning landscapes of Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland. Take a relaxing cruise or kayak along its pristine waters. Explore the charming lakeside towns of Lappeenranta and Savonlinna, home to medieval castles and vibrant local markets.
• National Parks: Finland boasts a network of breathtaking national parks that showcase the country’s natural wonders. Among the must-visit parks are Nuuksio National Park near Helsinki, renowned for its forests, lakes, and wildlife, and Oulanka National Park in Lapland, with its dramatic waterfalls and hiking trails.
• Turku: Experience the rich history of Finland by visiting the city of Turku. Explore Turku Castle, the largest medieval castle in the country, and immerse yourself in Finnish maritime history at the Forum Marinum maritime center. Don’t miss the Turku Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
• Aland Islands: For a slice of paradise, head to the Aland Islands. This archipelago offers picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and a unique blend of Swedish and Finnish culture. Enjoy cycling tours, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
• Levi: If you’re a fan of winter sports, a visit to Levi is a must. Located in Finnish Lapland, Levi is a popular ski resort with a range of slopes and activities for all skill levels. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even try your hand at ice climbing.

These are just a few of the countless attractions that Finland has to offer. Each region of the country has its own hidden gems waiting to be explored, so plan your itinerary accordingly and get ready to be enchanted by the beauty and charm of Finland.

Experiencing Finnish cuisine

When visiting Finland, indulging in the local cuisine is a must for any food lover. Finnish cuisine combines simplicity, freshness, and unique flavors, influenced by its geographical location and natural resources. Here are some must-try Finnish dishes and culinary experiences:

Finland is renowned for its fresh and flavorful salmon. Try it smoked, grilled, or cured to experience the melt-in-your-mouth goodness. You can find salmon in various dishes, such as salmon soup (lohikeitto) and gravlax (cured salmon served with a dill and mustard sauce).

2. Reindeer:

Reindeer is a traditional and iconic part of Finnish cuisine, especially in the northern regions of Lapland. Enjoy reindeer meat prepared as a stew, roasted, or in sausages. The meat is tender, lean, and boasts a distinct flavor.

3. Karjalanpiirakka:

Karjalanpiirakka is a Finnish specialty that consists of rye crust filled with rice or potato filling. These handheld pastries are usually served with a dollop of butter and topped with egg butter or served alongside smoked salmon.

4. Rye Bread:

Rye bread is a staple in Finnish cuisine, enjoyed in various forms. The traditional Finnish rye bread (ruisleipä) is dense, hearty, and full of flavor. It is often served as an accompaniment to meals or used as a base for open-faced sandwiches.

5. Sautéed Mushrooms:

Finland’s forests are abundant with wild mushrooms, and sautéed mushrooms (sienet) are a common dish. Whether it’s chanterelles, porcini, or morel mushrooms, the earthy and rich flavors are celebrated in Finnish cuisine.

6. Berries:

Finland is famous for its wild berries, including lingonberries, bilberries, and cloudberries. These berries are used in various desserts, jams, and sauces. Don’t miss the chance to try a traditional Finnish berry pie or indulge in a bowl of freshly picked berries with a splash of cream.

7. Salmiakki:

If you’re feeling adventurous, try salmiakki, a unique Finnish candy flavored with ammonium chloride. Salmiakki has a salty and licorice-like taste and is often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

When dining out in Finland, explore traditional Finnish restaurants and sample dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Helsinki, in particular, offers a plethora of dining options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming neighborhood eateries.

Remember to pair your meals with Finnish beverages such as cloudberry liqueur, Finnish craft beers, or the national alcoholic drink, called Koskenkorva, made from barley or potatoes.

Experiencing Finnish cuisine is not just about the food but also about embracing the culture and traditions that surround it. So, be curious, adventurous, and savor the flavors of Finland!

Outdoor activities in Finland

With its vast forests, pristine lakes, and stunning natural landscapes, Finland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The country offers a plethora of activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its breathtaking surroundings. Here are some outdoor activities you shouldn’t miss when visiting Finland:

1. Hiking and Nature Walks:

Finland boasts numerous national parks and nature reserves that offer well-maintained trails for hiking and nature walks. Whether you’re exploring the lush forests of Nuuksio National Park near Helsinki or the rugged beauty of Urho Kekkonen National Park in Lapland, there’s a trail for every skill level.

2. Cycling:

With its vast network of cycling routes, Finland is a cyclist’s paradise. Rent a bike and explore the picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and scenic coastal paths. The Archipelago Trail in southwestern Finland and the Lake Saimaa Cycling Route in the Lakeland region are popular cycling routes.

3. Canoeing and Kayaking:

Finland’s numerous lakes, rivers, and waterways make it an ideal destination for canoeing and kayaking. Paddle through the tranquil waters and soak in the breathtaking views. You can even go on multi-day kayak expeditions and camp along the shores under the midnight sun.

4. Fishing:

Finland is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with its abundance of freshwater lakes and rivers teeming with fish. Cast your line to catch salmon, trout, perch, or pike. Fishing permits are required, but they are easily obtained, allowing you to enjoy the serene beauty of Finland’s waters.

5. Wildlife Safaris:

Embark on a wildlife safari to spot Finland’s iconic creatures in their natural habitat. Join a guided tour to observe brown bears, elk, reindeer, or wolverines in the Finnish wilderness. The Kuhmo region in eastern Finland is particularly renowned for its wildlife experiences.

6. Winter Sports:

During the winter months, Finland transforms into a winter wonderland offering a wide array of activities. Try your hand at skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country skiing in one of the many ski resorts scattered across the country. The Levi and Ruka resorts in Lapland are popular choices for winter sports enthusiasts.

7. Berry and Mushroom picking:

In Finland, the right to roam, known as “everyman’s right,” allows you to explore the forests and pick wild berries and mushrooms. From lingonberries and bilberries to chanterelles and porcini mushrooms, forage for these natural treasures and enjoy the flavors of the Finnish wilderness.

These are just a few of the outdoor activities that Finland has to offer. The country’s untouched natural beauty provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Exploring the unique Finnish culture

Finnish culture is rich and diverse, deeply rooted in its history, nature, and traditions. Exploring Finnish culture offers a unique insight into the way of life in this Nordic country. Here are some aspects of Finnish culture that you should discover:

1. Sauna Culture:

Saunas hold a significant place in Finnish culture and daily life. Finns have a deep appreciation for the sauna, considering it a place of relaxation, cleansing, and even socializing. Whether it’s a traditional wood-burning sauna in the countryside or a modern sauna in the city, experiencing a Finnish sauna is a must to truly understand the culture.

2. Design and Architecture:

Finland is renowned for its innovative and functional design. From iconic furniture designs by Alvar Aalto to contemporary creations, Finnish design is celebrated worldwide. Explore the design district of Helsinki, visit the iconic Finnish Design Museum, and admire the unique architectural styles seen throughout the country.

3. Traditional Festivals:

Participating in traditional Finnish festivals provides a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage. Celebrate Midsummer (Juhannus) in June, when Finns gather to embrace the midnight sun with bonfires, singing, and traditional festivities. Experience the Christmas season by visiting the vibrant Christmas markets and witnessing the joyous celebrations.

4. Finnish Literature and Music:

Finnish literature and music have a rich history and continue to thrive today. Dive into Finnish literature with works from famous authors like Aleksis Kivi, Väinö Linna, and Tove Jansson. Attend a concert by a Finnish symphony orchestra or explore the vibrant contemporary music scene in Helsinki and other major cities.

5. Sami Culture:

The indigenous Sami people have a distinct culture and way of life that can be explored in the northern parts of Finland. Learn about their traditions, reindeer herding, and vibrant handicrafts. Attend a Sami festival or visit a Sami museum to gain a deeper understanding of their unique cultural heritage.

6. Folklore and Mythology:

Immerse yourself in Finnish folklore and mythology, which is filled with fascinating tales of mythical creatures, such as trolls and forest spirits. Discover the epic national Finnish poem, Kalevala, which has contributed to the preservation of Finnish folklore and served as a source of inspiration for artists and storytellers.

7. Local Cuisine:

Exploring Finnish culture would be incomplete without indulging in the local cuisine. Try traditional dishes such as salmon soup, Karelian pastries, and reindeer meat. Embrace the concept of “Kahvila,” Finnish coffee culture, and enjoy a cup of coffee with a tasty pastry.

Engaging with these aspects of Finnish culture allows you to gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions, values, and way of life in Finland. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Finnish people as you immerse yourself in their unique cultural experiences.

Shopping in Finland

Shopping in Finland offers a delightful blend of traditional craftsmanship, contemporary design, and unique local products. From vibrant marketplaces to modern shopping centers, here are some shopping experiences you should explore during your visit:

1. Design Districts:

Helsinki is home to several design districts that showcase the best of Finnish art, fashion, and interior design. Explore the boutiques, galleries, and concept stores in the Design District, Punavuori, and Kallio neighborhoods. Discover one-of-a-kind pieces and innovative creations by local designers and artists.

2. Marketplaces:

Marketplaces, such as Helsinki’s Market Square (Kauppatori) and Turku’s Old Market Hall, are iconic destinations for shopping in Finland. Experience the lively atmosphere, browse through stalls selling fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies. Don’t forget to try traditional Finnish treats like smoked salmon, reindeer products, and lingonberry jam.

3. Moomin Souvenirs:

Moomins, the beloved Finnish cartoon characters created by Tove Jansson, are an integral part of Finnish culture. Find a wide range of Moomin-themed souvenirs, including books, toys, and household items. Visit the Moomin Shops in Helsinki, Helsinki Airport, or other major cities to immerse yourself in the whimsical world of the Moomins.

4. Handicrafts and Artworks:

Discover the traditional Finnish craftsmanship by exploring galleries and shops that specialize in handmade items. Look for intricate glassware from renowned brands like Iittala and Arabia. Admire the intricate woodwork, tapestries, and ceramics created by local artisans. The Sami handicrafts, such as silver jewelry and reindeer leather products, are also worth seeking out.

5. Marimekko:

Marimekko is a globally recognized Finnish design brand famous for its bold prints and vibrant patterns. Explore Marimekko stores, like the flagship store in Helsinki, and browse their collection of clothing, accessories, home decor, and textiles. Take home a piece of Finnish design with a unique Marimekko creation.

6. Finnish Food Products:

Bring a taste of Finland home by purchasing local food products such as cloudberry jam, Finnish chocolates, or traditional rye bread mixes. Look for specialty stores like Stockmann’s Food Halls or delis that offer a wide selection of Finnish gourmet treats to savor and share with loved ones.

7. Arctic Fashion and Outdoor Gear:

If you’re planning outdoor adventures in Finland or seeking fashionable winter wear, check out the local brands specializing in Arctic fashion and outdoor gear. Brands like Fjällräven, Halti, and Icebreaker offer high-quality clothing and equipment designed to withstand Finland’s cold weather conditions.

Shopping in Finland is more than just acquiring souvenirs; it’s about exploring the creativity, craftsmanship, and unique products that reflect Finnish culture and design. Whether you’re looking for fashion, home decor, or tasty treats, you’ll find a wealth of options that showcase the best of what Finland has to offer.

Safety tips for traveling to Finland

Finland is known for its high safety standards and low crime rates, making it a safe and peaceful destination for travelers. However, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while traveling in Finland:

1. Stay informed:

Before your trip, familiarize yourself with the local laws, customs, and potential risks in the areas you plan to visit. Stay updated on any travel advisories or warnings issued by your home country’s foreign ministry or embassy.

2. Dress appropriately for the weather:

Finland’s weather can be quite extreme, especially in winter. Make sure to pack and dress appropriately to stay warm and comfortable. Layer your clothing, wear a hat, gloves, and a good pair of insulated shoes or boots. It’s also wise to carry a small emergency kit with essentials like a flashlight, first aid supplies, and a mobile phone with emergency contacts saved.

3. Take precautions against pickpocketing:

While Finland is relatively safe, pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and public transportation. Keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings. Use a money belt or a secure bag to carry your valuables, and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive items in public.

4. Follow outdoor safety guidelines:

If you plan to engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, be prepared and follow safety guidelines. Check the weather forecast, inform someone about your plans, and stick to marked trails. It’s advisable to carry a map, compass, and/or a GPS device for navigation, especially in remote areas.

5. Respect nature and wildlife:

When exploring Finland’s beautiful natural landscapes, it’s important to respect the environment and wildlife. Observe animals from a safe distance and do not disturb their habitats. Follow designated paths, avoid littering, and leave nature as you found it.

6. Use reliable transportation:

Finland has a well-maintained transportation system, including trains, buses, and taxis. Stick to licensed and reputable operators when using public transportation or hiring a taxi. It’s also advisable to book transportation and accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

7. Practice caution in wilderness areas:

Finland’s vast wilderness is captivating, but it can also be challenging. If you plan to venture into remote areas, be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions. Research the area, be prepared for changing weather conditions, and consider hiring a local guide with knowledge of the terrain and safety procedures.

By following these safety tips and using common sense during your travels in Finland, you can enjoy a smooth, worry-free trip and fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this remarkable Nordic country.

Finland is a destination that offers a plethora of wonders and experiences for all types of travelers. From its breathtaking natural landscapes to its vibrant cities, Finland has something to captivate and inspire every visitor. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, Finland delivers.

As you plan your trip to Finland, remember to consider the best time to visit based on your interests and preferences. Check the visa requirements in advance to ensure a smooth entry into the country. When it comes to accommodations, Finland offers a range of options to suit every budget and style, from luxurious hotels to cozy cottages.

Make sure to explore the must-visit tourist attractions, from the vibrant city of Helsinki to the magical land of Lapland. Engage in Finnish culture by experiencing the sauna, indulging in delicious local cuisine, and learning about the rich lore and traditions that shape the country.

Shopping in Finland provides the opportunity to discover unique design pieces, handmade crafts, and local delicacies that reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of this Nordic nation. And as you embark on outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking through national parks, canoeing in pristine lakes, or spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, follow safety guidelines and be prepared for Finland’s diverse weather conditions.

In conclusion, Finland offers a harmonious fusion of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Embrace the serene landscapes, immerse yourself in Finnish traditions, and create lasting memories in this enchanting country. Finland truly has it all – adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection to nature – making it a destination that will captivate your heart and leave you longing to return.

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Finland — History and Culture

The culture in Finland is largely shaped by it's history. For years, the Swedes and Russians battled over control of the land, and, in the process, influenced the language and customs, especially in the regions of Ostrobothnia and Aland. Despite its colonizers, the Finnish language most closely resembles Hungarian. The northern outskirts of the country (Lapland) are dominated by the Sámi culture where people still follow a semi-nomadic lifestyle. Often dubbed Finland’s greatest contribution to the world, saunas are one of the most prevalent traditions in the country.

The earliest history of Finland involved the settlement of the nomadic Sami people, who roamed the northern parts of the country during the first millennium BC. Tavastians of central Europe also left footsteps on Finnish lands and the settlers had their own language belonging to the Finno-Ugric group, distinct from the Indo-European tongues spoken throughout the continent.

Finland became an important center for trade during the Viking Age, and while the Vikings chose not to establish settlements in this territory, Finland became a backdrop for occasional wars between quarreling neighbors like the Swedes, Germans and Russians. The provisions of the Treaty of Pahkinasaari (1323) divided Finland between Sweden and Russia.

The struggle for power between the two persisted for centuries, but Finns were keen to preserve their own culture, language and institutions. The year 1917 established Finland as an autonomous region, although still under the Russian Empire. The Finns declared independence after the Bolshevik Revolution, but the new state immediately faced civil war between social classes—the White Forces (property owners) and the Red Forces (landless farm, factory and forest workers).

The conflict between the upper and working classes continued, even as Finland allied with the Soviet Union during WWII. The country surrendered almost 10 percent of its area during the war, particularly Karelian in the east. The Pact of Friendship, Co-operation and Mutual Assistance between the Soviet Union and Finland gave birth to Finlandization (bowing to the east without mooning the west). Even with its close relations with the USSR, the country retained democracy and its Western European market economy while building good friendships with its Nordic neighbors.

The collapse of the Soviet Union led to the inclusion of Finland in the European Union. Today, they enjoy consistently high economic status thanks to its booming technology sector and steadily growing tourism industry.

The Finnish culture is a mix of indigenous heritage, Nordic and European influences. Differences in customs and traditions can be observed in the country’s various regions. There are Sami, Romani, Swedish-speaking Finns, Tartar, and the Jews, all of which have maintained their unique cultural identities. This melting pot can be observed in festivals, literature, visual arts, music, cinema, and even cuisine.

Finnish artists and architects have made major contributions to industrial design and sculpture. Finns are also very musical people, with rich folk traditions, such as Sami Music, often used to express beliefs and myths. Locals enjoy classical and opera music, with the country boasting popular works like Kullervo and Finlandia by Jean Sibellus. Pop and heavy metal entered the scene as Finland established closer relations with its Nordic neighbors, which coincided with a surge in musical acts, rock bands, dance music, and hip hop.

Thanks to European and Western influences, a rich culinary tradition has begun developing in Finland. Modern Finnish cooking is giving new flavor to usual staples like fish, vegetables, meat, and berries. In Lapland and the Lakeland areas, reindeer and seafood are the most common menu items. Arctic wild berries, harvested from the forests along with rare mushroom species, add unique flavor to dishes. Coffee, tea, milk, and buttermilk are popular beverages, as are local brews like sahti (traditional beer), sima (mead), kilju (sugar wine), and pontikka (moonshine).

Festivities and traditions in Finland are closely tied to the Christian Calendar, as well as to different protestant and pagan holidays. Midsummer and Christmas events are widely celebrated, along with Vappu/May Day, which is as close as you can get to Mardi Gras in Finland. The ubiquitous sauna bath is also a permanent fixture in daily Finnish life.

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Tourism in Finland 

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Tourism in Finland is big business, but why? Why is this industry so important and how should it best be managed? Read on to find out…

Tourism in Finland

Finland, often dubbed the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’, offers more than just its serene waterscapes. Nestled between vast forests and the Arctic expanse, this Nordic nation presents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern innovation. As we embark on this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted attractions of Finnish tourism, delving into a destination where the midnight sun meets cutting-edge design, and age-old traditions thrive alongside contemporary culture.

Geographical overview of Finland 

Finland is a country located in northern Europe and shares borders with Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, Russia to the east, and Estonia to the south across the Gulf of Finland.

The country has a total area of approximately 338,000 square kilometres, making it the eighth-largest country in Europe. Its terrain is characterised by numerous lakes and vast forested areas, as well as many islands and archipelagos along its extensive coastline.

Finland has a relatively low population density, with most of the population concentrated in the southern part of the country, particularly around the capital city of Helsinki. The majority of the land is covered by forests, and about one-tenth of the country is covered by water, including over 188,000 lakes.

The landscape is marked by several large lakes, such as Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland and the fourth largest in Europe. The country also features several mountain ranges, including the Koli National Park, which is home to one of Finland’s most famous landscapes.

The climate in Finland is generally characterised by cold winters and mild summers, with the winter months bringing snow and freezing temperatures. Due to its location near the Arctic Circle, some parts of Finland experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun during the summer months and the polar night during the winter months.

The tourism industry in Finland 

Finland is a popular tourist destination known for its unique natural beauty, fascinating culture, and outdoor activities. The tourism industry in Finland is an important contributor to the country’s economy, and it has experienced steady growth in recent years.

One of the main draws for tourists is Finland’s vast wilderness areas, including its many lakes, forests, and national parks. Visitors can experience the Northern Lights, hike or ski in the mountains, go fishing, or enjoy a sauna by a lakeside cabin. Finland also has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, art galleries, and festivals celebrating traditional Finnish culture and modern art.

Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is also a popular tourist destination. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, theatres, and music venues. Helsinki also boasts many architectural wonders, including the famous Temppeliaukio Church, a church built into a rock face, and the modernist Kamppi Chapel of Silence.

Tourists can also experience Finnish traditions and culture through local food and drink, including smoked salmon, reindeer meat, and cloudberry jam. Finland is also known for its vodka, beer, and award-winning wines.

In recent years, Finland has also become a popular destination for wellness and eco-tourism, with a focus on sustainability and natural healing. Visitors can enjoy spa treatments, yoga retreats, and outdoor activities like foraging for wild berries and mushrooms.

Overall, Finland’s tourism industry offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for a wide range of travellers.

Statistics about tourism in Finland 

Here are some of the most current statistics available and the time of publication about tourism in Finland:

• In 2019, Finland welcomed a total of 6.9 million tourists, which was a 3% increase from the previous year. (Source: Visit Finland)
• Tourism accounts for about 2.9% of Finland’s GDP, generating around €5.3 billion in revenue in 2019. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The majority of tourists visiting Finland come from neighbouring countries such as Russia, Sweden, and Germany. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The most popular destinations in Finland for tourists are Helsinki, Lapland, and the Lakeland region. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The average length of stay for tourists in Finland is about 4.4 nights. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The most popular activities for tourists in Finland include outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing, as well as cultural activities such as visiting museums and art galleries. (Source: Visit Finland)
• In 2019, the tourism industry in Finland employed approximately 140,000 people, making up around 5.7% of the country’s total employment. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The number of Chinese tourists visiting Finland has been increasing steadily in recent years, with a 12.6% increase in 2019. (Source: Visit Finland)
• The majority of accommodation options in Finland are hotels, followed by rental cottages and apartments. (Source: Visit Finland)
• Sustainable tourism is an important focus for Finland, with the country being named the world’s happiest country by the World Happiness Report in 2021 and ranked as one of the most sustainable destinations in the world by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. (Source: Visit Finland, GSTC)

Most popular tourist attractions in Finland 

Finland has a wealth of attractions that draw tourists from around the world. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Finland:

• Helsinki – The capital city of Finland is a vibrant metropolis that offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions, including museums, art galleries, theatres, and the iconic Helsinki Cathedral.
• Lapland – The northernmost region of Finland is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the unique Arctic environment and outdoor activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. Lapland is also famous for its Santa Claus Village and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights.
• Finnish Lakeland – Finland’s lake district, located in the eastern part of the country, is a stunning region of interconnected lakes and islands, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
• Suomenlinna Fortress – This UNESCO World Heritage site located in Helsinki is a historic sea fortress built in the 18th century. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its history through guided tours and exhibits.
• Rovaniemi – The capital of Lapland and the official home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is a popular destination for families and tourists looking to experience traditional Finnish culture and the northern wilderness.
• Turku Castle – Located in the city of Turku, this mediaeval castle is one of the most well-preserved castles in Finland and offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
• Åland Islands – An archipelago of over 6,000 islands located between Finland and Sweden, the Åland Islands offer a unique blend of Finnish and Swedish culture, as well as stunning natural beauty.
• The Archipelago Trail – This 250 km route takes visitors through the Turku archipelago and offers a scenic drive or bike ride through beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, and historic sites.
• Koli National Park – Located in eastern Finland, this national park offers breathtaking views of the Finnish Lakeland and is known for its rugged terrain and unique rock formations.
• Saimaa – The largest lake in Finland, Saimaa offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxation in a picturesque setting, with numerous islands and waterways to explore.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Finland has to offer, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and history.

Most popular types of tourism in Finland 

Finland offers a diverse range of tourism experiences that cater to different interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types of tourism in Finland:

• Nature tourism – Finland’s pristine forests, lakes, and wilderness areas are a major draw for visitors seeking outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife watching are popular among nature lovers.
• Cultural tourism – Finland has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through various museums, galleries, festivals, and events. Visitors can explore the country’s traditional handicrafts, music, and cuisine, as well as learn about its history and architecture.
• Winter tourism – Finland’s long, snowy winters offer a host of activities for visitors, including skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. Lapland is a particularly popular destination for winter tourism, with its unique Arctic environment and opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
• Sauna tourism – Sauna is an important part of Finnish culture, and visitors can experience traditional Finnish sauna rituals and relaxation techniques in a variety of settings, from public saunas to private cabins.
• Food and drink tourism – Finnish cuisine features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a range of unique flavours and dishes. Visitors can sample traditional Finnish dishes such as reindeer, salmon, and cloudberry, as well as Finnish craft beers and spirits.
• Health and wellness tourism – Finland is known for its natural hot springs, therapeutic mud treatments, and spa facilities that offer relaxation and rejuvenation to visitors. Health and wellness tourism is popular among those seeking rest and rejuvenation in a peaceful and natural environment.

These are just a few of the many types of tourism experiences available in Finland, catering to different interests and preferences.

Economic impacts of tourism in Finland

Tourism is a significant contributor to the Finnish economy, generating employment and income, as well as supporting various industries and businesses. Here are some of the economic impacts of tourism in Finland:

• Employment – Tourism creates jobs in a range of industries, including accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, and retail. In 2019, the tourism industry in Finland employed over 155,000 people, accounting for around 6% of total employment in the country.
• Income – Tourism generates income for businesses and individuals across the country, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and local vendors. In 2019, tourism contributed approximately €6.8 billion to the Finnish economy, accounting for around 2.9% of the country’s GDP.
• Investment – The tourism industry also attracts investment in infrastructure and services, such as new hotels, transportation networks, and tourism attractions. This investment helps to support the growth of the industry and enhance the visitor experience.
• Regional development – Tourism can support regional development by promoting the growth of businesses and infrastructure in less developed areas of the country. This can help to create more balanced regional development and spread the economic benefits of tourism more widely.
• Cultural preservation – Tourism can also help to preserve and promote Finland’s cultural heritage, by encouraging the development of cultural attractions and events that celebrate Finnish traditions and history. This can help to maintain a sense of cultural identity and pride among the local population.

Overall, the tourism industry plays an important role in the Finnish economy, generating income, employment, and investment, as well as supporting regional development and cultural preservation.

Social impacts of tourism in Finland

Tourism can have various social impacts on destinations, including Finland. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Finland:

• Cultural exchange – Tourism can promote cultural exchange and understanding between visitors and locals. Visitors can learn about Finnish culture and traditions, while locals can gain exposure to different cultures and perspectives.
• Community involvement – The tourism industry can involve and benefit local communities, by creating job opportunities and supporting local businesses. This can help to foster a sense of community pride and ownership over tourism development.
• Environmental awareness – Tourism can raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage responsible travel practices. This can help to promote environmental conservation and sustainability.
• Infrastructure development – Tourism can also support the development of infrastructure and services that benefit local communities, such as transportation networks, public facilities, and tourist attractions. This can improve quality of life for residents and enhance the overall visitor experience.
• Social tensions – However, tourism can also create social tensions and conflicts, particularly if it leads to overcrowding, environmental degradation, or cultural misunderstandings. It is important for tourism development to be managed in a sustainable and responsible manner, taking into account the needs and concerns of both visitors and local communities.

Overall, the social impacts of tourism in Finland can be both positive and negative, depending on how tourism development is managed and balanced with the needs and aspirations of local communities.

Environmental impacts of tourism in Finland

Tourism can have various environmental impacts on destinations, including Finland. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism in Finland:

• Carbon emissions – Tourism in Finland can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through transportation, accommodation, and food and beverage services. This can contribute to climate change and other environmental problems.
• Land use – Tourism development can lead to changes in land use, such as the conversion of natural habitats into tourism infrastructure or the degradation of fragile ecosystems due to tourist activities.
• Waste generation – Tourism in Finland can generate significant amounts of waste, such as packaging, food waste, and disposable products. This can contribute to environmental pollution and waste management challenges.
• Resource depletion – Tourism can also lead to the depletion of natural resources, such as water and energy, particularly in areas with limited resources.
• Biodiversity loss – Tourism can have negative impacts on biodiversity, particularly through habitat destruction and disturbance, hunting and fishing, and the introduction of invasive species.

To mitigate the environmental impacts of tourism in Finland, there are various sustainability initiatives in place. These include eco-friendly accommodations, sustainable transportation options, waste reduction and recycling programs, and conservation efforts to protect biodiversity and natural habitats. It is important for tourists to also practise responsible and sustainable tourism behaviours, such as minimising waste, using public transportation, and respecting natural and cultural heritage sites.

FAQs about tourism in Finland 

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Finland, lets answer some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic:

What is the best time of year to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) is the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, while winter (December to February) is ideal for winter sports and seeing the Northern Lights.

Do I need a visa to visit Finland?

This depends on your nationality. Citizens of EU/EEA countries and several other countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. Check with the Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country to determine if you need a visa.

What is the official language of Finland?

The official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish. English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

How do I get around in Finland?

Finland has a well-developed transportation network that includes buses, trains, domestic flights, and ferries. Public transportation in major cities is affordable and reliable.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Finland?

Popular tourist attractions in Finland include Helsinki, Lapland, the Northern Lights, Finnish lakes, national parks, and cultural sites such as Suomenlinna fortress and Turku Castle.

Is Finland an expensive country to visit?

Finland can be relatively expensive compared to other European countries, particularly in terms of accommodation and food. However, there are budget-friendly options available, such as hostels and street food.

What are some typical Finnish foods I should try?

Finnish cuisine includes traditional dishes such as reindeer stew, smoked salmon, Karelian pastries, and rye bread. There are also many international dining options available in major cities.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Finland?

Yes, Finland is a popular destination for seeing the Northern Lights, particularly in Lapland. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months.

Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of when visiting Finland?

Finns tend to be reserved and value personal space, so it’s important to respect this when interacting with locals. It’s also common to remove shoes when entering someone’s home or certain public buildings.

What are some popular winter activities in Finland?

Popular winter activities in Finland include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and dog sledding.

To conclude- Tourism in Finland

So, that sums up this article about tourism in Finland. As our exploration of Finland’s tourism landscape draws to a close, it’s evident that this Nordic gem seamlessly marries its rich cultural tapestry with unparalleled natural beauty. From its tranquil lakes to innovative urban hubs, Finland continually redefines the essence of travel, offering experiences that are both profound and enriching. In the realm of global tourism, Finland stands as a testament to timeless allure and modern evolution, promising each visitor a journey of lasting resonance.

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Best things to do when visiting finland.

Finland has it all. From the incredible scattering of islands in Europe’s largest archipelago, to the hilly countryside of Finnish Lapland , the landscape of Finland is a pristine paradise for nature lovers. With midnight sun in the summer, and the ephemeral allure of the Northern Lights in the winter, Finland possesses a wealth of rare beauty, a truly distinctive ambience. Modern Finland combines the natural gifts bestowed upon the land with modern technologies allowing it to be easily discovered. An ideal tourist destination for travellers looking for something different, the rewards for Discovering Finland are endless. Explore our site and find our the best things to do when you visit Finland.

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35 BEST Places to Visit in Finland

Looking for the best places to visit in Finland? Discover the breathtaking beauty of Finland’s hidden gems – from Saariselkä to Suomenlinna, and explore enchanting national parks and serene lakes.  

This Nordic gem offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations that are worth a visit. Whether you’re an avid explorer or simply seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Finland has something special in store for you. 

Each city has a unique allure, inviting you to unravel its secrets and create unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey through Finland’s captivating wonders. 

From bustling cities to serene natural landscapes, no shortage of beauty awaits your arrival. Join us as we uncover this Nordic paradise that truly has it all – history, culture, nature, and so much more. 

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Helsinki: The capital city

The capital city, Helsinki, the picturesque capital of Finland, is undeniably a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this enchanting Nordic country. Nestled on the southern coast of Finland, Helsinki is the country’s most popular and vibrant city. 

Boasting a blend of modernity and rich cultural heritage, Helsinki offers many attractions that will leave visitors spellbound. One of the top places to visit in Helsinki is undoubtedly the iconic Senate Square. 

This grand square is surrounded by stunning neoclassical buildings, including the magnificent Helsinki Cathedral. With its distinctive green dome and pristine white facade, the cathedral is an emblematic symbol of Finnish architecture. 

For those interested in delving into Finland’s history and culture, visiting Suomenlinna should be high on their list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an archipelago fortress just off Helsinki’s coast. 

Steeped in history, Suomenlinna dates back to the 18th century and offers visitors a chance to explore its fortified walls, hidden tunnels, and museums and even enjoy picnics by its picturesque shores. Stroll along its charming waterfront promenades to truly experience Helsinki’s charm and beauty. 

From Kauppatori (Market Square), bustling with local vendors selling fresh produce and unique handicrafts, to Esplanade Park, filled with lush greenery and vibrant flower beds – these areas offer perfect spots for leisurely walks or simply enjoying a cup of coffee while soaking up the Finnish atmosphere. Whether exploring museums like Ateneum or Kiasma showcasing world-class art collections or immersing yourself in nature by visiting nearby national parks such as Nuuksio or Sipoonkorpi – Helsinki has something for everyone. 

No visit would be complete without experiencing Töölönlahti Bay’s stunning scenery or venturing out to Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, for serene boat rides or leisurely walks along its shores. Helsinki is Finland’s capital city and the gateway to exploring the diverse wonders of this beautiful country. 

With its captivating blend of modernity and heritage, Helsinki offers many attractions and experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey through southern Finland’s charming cultural hub. 

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Tampere: The Finnish Manchester

Tampere, often referred to as the Finnish Manchester, is a vibrant city in Finland that offers a unique blend of industrial history and modern attractions. Nestled between two gorgeous lakes , Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, Tampere boasts stunning waterfront views that add to its charm. If you’re planning a trip to Finland, Tampere should definitely be on your list of places to visit. 

One of the best places to explore in Tampere is the picturesque Amuri district. This historic area is known for its well-preserved wooden houses and charming streets. 

Take a leisurely stroll through this neighborhood and soak up its old-world ambiance. You can also visit the Amuri Museum of Workers’ Housing, which provides fascinating insights into the lives of industrial workers during the early 20th century. 

For those seeking cultural experiences, Tampere has plenty to offer. The city is home to various museums and art galleries catering to different interests. 

The Vapriikki Museum Centre is an absolute must-visit. Located in an old factory building by Tammerkoski Rapids, it houses numerous exhibitions ranging from natural history to technology and even the Finnish Baseball Museum. 

Another noteworthy attraction is the Sara Hildén Art Museum, which showcases contemporary art from Finland and beyond. Additionally, if you’re a fan of architecture or history buffs, don’t miss out on visiting Tampere Cathedral (Tampereen Tuomiokirkko). 

This impressive Lutheran church stands tall as one of the top attractions in town with its distinctive red-brick facade and beautiful interior. Step inside and admire its grandeur while learning about its historical significance. 

While planning your trip to Finland, don’t overlook Tampere – a city that offers industrial heritage and modern delights. Explore its charming districts like Amuri with their preserved wooden houses, or immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene by visiting fascinating museums and art galleries. 

Tampere Cathedral is also worth visiting for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Including Tampere in your itinerary will enhance your overall experience of this enchanting country. 

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Espoo, a vibrant city in southern Finland, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of nature and urban charm. It is situated just west of Helsinki and offers a delightful contrast to the bustling capital. 

With its picturesque landscapes, modern architecture, and cultural attractions, Espoo has something for everyone. One of the most beautiful places to visit in Espoo is Nuuksio National Park. 

This pristine wilderness covers vast expanses of lush forests dotted with crystal-clear lakes. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the tranquility of this enchanting park by hiking along its numerous trails or enjoying a peaceful picnic by the shores of one of its many lakes. 

If you’re lucky, you might spot some native wildlife, like reindeer grazing peacefully among the trees. Espoo offers fascinating glimpses into Finland’s past for those interested in history. 

The medieval Espoo Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, is an iconic landmark and architectural masterpiece. Stepping inside this historic place of worship allows visitors to marvel at its stunning stained glass windows and ornate decorations. 

Apart from its natural beauty and historical sites, Espoo is also known for its modern attractions. The WeeGee Exhibition Centre is an impressive cultural hub with several museums showcasing art, design, and history exhibits. 

One standout attraction within WeeGee is the EMMA – Espoo Museum of Modern Art – which presents contemporary works from Finnish and international artists. To truly experience Espoo’s charm, take some time to explore Tapiola Garden City with its unique blend of urban planning and green spaces. 

Developed in the mid-20th century as an ideal residential area combining housing with nature conservation principles, Tapiola is now recognized as a prime example of modern Finnish architecture. Espoo stands out amongst other places in Finland due to its harmonious blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. 

From the serene landscapes of Nuuksio National Park to the cultural richness of WeeGee and the historic allure of Espoo Cathedral, this province of Finland offers an array of experiences for every traveler. So, if you’re planning a trip to Finland, take advantage of Espoo as a captivating destination worth exploring. 

Located on the west coast of Finland, Vaasa is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. With its picturesque archipelago, vibrant cultural scene, and fascinating museums, Vaasa is a must-visit destination in Finland . One of the main attractions in Vaasa is the Old Town, known as Vanha Vaasa. 

This area is steeped in history and showcases the city’s architectural heritage. Explore the cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden houses that date back to the 19th century. 

Take a leisurely stroll along Market Square and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere as you browse through quaint shops and enjoy delicious Finnish cuisine at one of the cozy cafes. Visiting the Ostrobothnian Museum is highly recommended for those interested in learning about Finnish history. 

This museum provides fascinating insights into local culture and showcases exhibitions on maritime history and traditional craftsmanship. Another notable museum is Terranova, which focuses on natural sciences and features interactive exhibits that are both educational and entertaining for visitors of all ages. 

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in and around Vaasa. The Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Baltic Sea, offers breathtaking views and unique landscapes shaped by glacial activity. 

Take a boat tour to experience this natural wonder up close or explore one of the many hiking trails along its shores. If you want an unforgettable experience, why not visit a reindeer farm? 

Just outside Vaasa lies Korsnäs Reindeer Farm, where you can get close to these majestic creatures while learning about their importance in Sami culture. Enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride through snow-covered forests or participate in traditional Lappish activities such as lasso throwing or cooking over an open fire. 

From its historical charm to its beautiful natural surroundings, Vaasa stands out as one of Finland’s most captivating places to visit. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in Finnish culture, exploring the great outdoors, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, Vaasa offers something for everyone. 

Porvoo: The second oldest city

Nestled along the southern coast of Finland, Porvoo is a charming gem that is the second oldest city in the country. Steeped in history and adorned with picturesque wooden houses, this idyllic destination offers visitors a glimpse into Finland’s rich cultural heritage. There are plenty of reasons why Porvoo should be on your list of places to see in Finland. 

Wandering through Porvoo’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets are lined with brightly colored wooden houses, many dating back to the 18th century. 

Strolling through these narrow lanes, you’ll find quaint boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes around every corner. The Old Town Hall, with its distinct red facade and clock tower, stands proudly on a hill overlooking the town square. 

One of Porvoo’s most iconic landmarks is the Cathedral. This stunning piece of architecture dates back to the 13th century and is located atop a hill, offering panoramic views over the city and its surroundings. 

Inside, you’ll find magnificent frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows that add to its ethereal charm. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Porvoo Museum is a must-do. 

Housed in an old granary building near the riverbank, this museum showcases exhibits that delve into Porvoo’s past – from its role as an important trading hub to its struggles during various wars. The museum also highlights famous Finnish artists who found inspiration in Porvoo’s quaint streets. 

Whether exploring historical sites or simply soaking up the atmosphere at one of Porvoo’s delightful waterfront cafes, this enchanting city promises an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Finland’s past. With its unique blend of architectural beauty and cultural significance, it’s no wonder that Porvoo remains one of Finland’s best-kept secrets for both locals and travelers alike.

Turku: The former capital

Turku, the former capital of Finland, is a city that effortlessly combines history and modernity. Situated on the southwest coast of Finland, this charming city offers many attractions and experiences for visitors to enjoy. 

One of the highlights of Turku is its magnificent Turku Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. This well-preserved medieval fortress stands proudly by the Aura River, showcasing its grandeur and rich history. 

Exploring its ancient halls and chambers gives one an immersive experience of Finland’s past. Aside from Turku Castle, numerous other attractions make Turku a must-visit place in Finland. 

The city’s lively riverfront area is lined with bustling restaurants and cafes where you can relax and savor delicious Finnish cuisine while enjoying picturesque views of boats sailing along the river. Another notable site in Turku is the maritime museum, where you can delve into Finland’s seafaring heritage through interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. 

For those seeking cultural enrichment, Turku boasts an array of museums and galleries that showcase Finnish art and history. The Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum allows visitors to explore underground archaeological excavations while appreciating modern art exhibitions. 

The city also hosts annual festivals like Ruisrock, one of Europe’s oldest rock music festivals. While exploring Turku can keep you occupied for days, venturing outside the city opens up even more opportunities for adventure. 

Just a short drive from Turku lies Naantali, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque old town and Moomin World theme park. With its captivating blend of historical landmarks, vibrant riverside ambiance, cultural attractions, and proximity to other noteworthy destinations around Finland, Turku undoubtedly deserves a prominent spot on any traveler’s itinerary. 

Whether you’re fascinated by medieval castles or crave some urban exploration mixed with coastal beauty – this former capital has it all. So, hop on a train from Helsinki or embark on a road trip and discover the allure of Turku for yourself. 

Pori, a charming city in Finland located on the western coast, is worth visiting during your Finland travel adventure. With its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Pori offers a unique experience showcasing the best Finnish design and natural beauty. One of the must-visit attractions in Pori is the iconic Yyteri Beach, which stretches for six kilometers along the Gulf of Bothnia. 

This sandy paradise is perfect for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or even trying your hand at various water sports. The beach offers stunning views and an opportunity to bask in the tranquility of nature. 

Additionally, if you’re lucky enough to be there during sunset, you’ll witness one of the best things about Pori – breathtakingly beautiful sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant hues. For history buffs, a visit to Old Rauma should be noticed. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts well-preserved wooden houses dating back to the 18th century. Strolling through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time. 

One such place is Reposaari Island, reachable by ferry from central Pori. This idyllic island offers picturesque views and peaceful surroundings perfect for a day trip or overnight stay in one of its cozy cottages. 

Additionally, exploring hiking trails around Pori allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this region of Finland. While Helsinki may be the most popular city in Finland due to its status as the capital, Pori offers a different kind of experience that is well worth exploring. 

From the stunning Yyteri Beach to the historic charm of Old Rauma and the natural beauty of Reposaari Island, Pori has something for everyone. So, if you’re planning a trip to Finland, include Pori on your itinerary and discover this enchanting city has hidden gems. 

The Åland Islands

The Åland Islands, located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland, are a hidden gem often overlooked in favor of more mainstream destinations. However, these islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a relaxed island atmosphere worth exploring. One of the highlights of visiting the Åland Islands is its stunning archipelago. 

With over 6,700 islands and skerries to explore, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. The rugged coastline is dotted with picturesque fishing villages where you can discover charming red wooden houses and taste authentic Finnish culture. 

Exploring the archipelago by boat or kayak allows you to fully immerse yourself in this tranquil setting and witness breathtaking sunsets over the sea. For history buffs, the Åland Islands are home to several interesting landmarks. 

One notable attraction is Kastelholm Castle, a medieval fortress that offers insight into Åland’s past as an important strategic location in maritime trade routes. The castle provides stunning views over the surrounding landscape and houses exhibitions showcasing its historical significance. 

In addition to its natural beauty and historical sites, the Åland Islands are also known for their maritime traditions. Sailing enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy here, with numerous regattas throughout the year. 

Visiting one of the island’s maritime museums is highly recommended for those interested in maritime history or just looking for an enjoyable day out. The Åland Islands may not be on everyone’s radar when planning their trip to Finland, but they offer something special for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination. 

Whether drawn by its unspoiled landscapes or curious about its fascinating history as an autonomous region within Finland, exploring this beautiful archipelago will provide you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Savonlinna: Home of Medieval History

Home of Medieval History Nestled in the heart of Finland, Savonlinna is a picturesque town that transports you back in time with its rich medieval history. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you can’t help but feel a sense of enchantment and wonder. 

The highlight of this charming town is the magnificent Olavinlinna Castle, a stunning 13th-century fortress that stands proudly on an island in Lake Saimaa. Olavinlinna Castle is a sight to behold and hosts the world-renowned Savonlinna Opera Festival during the summer months. 

This annual event attracts opera enthusiasts from all over the world who gather to witness breathtaking performances against the backdrop of this historic castle. The festival’s magical ambiance and extraordinary acoustics within the castle’s walls make it an unforgettable experience. 

Aside from its medieval allure, Savonlinna offers visitors a range of activities and attractions that showcase Finland’s natural beauty. Explore Lake Saimaa by taking a relaxing boat trip or embarking on an exciting kayaking adventure. 

The lake is dotted with idyllic islands and hidden coves waiting to be discovered. You might even catch glimpses of Finland’s resident wildlife, such as seals and ospreys, if you’re lucky. 

Savonlinna also boasts several museums that provide fascinating insights into Finnish culture and history. For instance, the National Museum of Finland showcases an impressive collection of artifacts chronicling the country’s past, including exhibits on Savonlinna. 

Delve deeper into local traditions by exploring exhibitions dedicated to traditional Finnish costumes, folk music, and ancient folklore. If you’re seeking a destination that combines rich medieval history with breathtaking natural landscapes, Savonlinna should be at the top of your list when considering places to visit in Finland. 

Immerse yourself in Olavinlinna Castle’s enchanting atmosphere, witness world-class opera performances, and explore the beauty of Lake Saimaa. Savonlinna offers a unique blend of cultural treasures and natural wonders, making it an irresistible addition to any Finland travel itinerary. 

Rovaniemi: The official hometown of Santa Claus

Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a magical place nestled in the heart of Lapland in northern Finland. This enchanting city offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the holiday spirit all year round. As you step into this winter wonderland, you’ll be greeted by a cheerful atmosphere and the unmistakable aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. 

One of the top attractions in Rovaniemi is Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the jolly man himself. Here, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a fairytale as you wander through charming cottages adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. 

Take a moment to sit on Santa’s lap and share your Christmas wishes – it’s an experience that will warm your heart and make you feel like a child again. If you’re visiting Rovaniemi during wintertime, don’t miss the chance to embark on an exhilarating reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests. 

Picture yourself snuggled in blankets as these graceful animals guide you through breathtaking landscapes – it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. And for those seeking even more thrills, hop on a snowmobile and zip across frozen lakes and hills under the shimmering Northern Lights . 

Beyond its association with Santa Claus, Rovaniemi boasts other delightful attractions too. The Arktikum Museum provides fascinating insights into Arctic life and culture while showcasing stunning displays about Lapland’s indigenous Sami people. 

For nature enthusiasts, Ounasvaara Hill offers excellent skiing opportunities during winter and stunning hiking trails during the summer months. Rovaniemi shines as one of Finland’s most cherished tourist destinations. 

Whether meeting Santa Claus himself at his village or indulging in exciting outdoor activities amidst breathtaking landscapes, this city has something for everyone seeking an unforgettable experience in Finland’s Lapland region.

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

The Northern Lights and Lapland

Lapland, a magical region in northern Finland, offers an enchanting experience for those seeking the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon, also known as Aurora Borealis, is caused by the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field. The best time to visit Lapland to witness this breathtaking spectacle is during winter when nights are long, and the skies are clear. 

One of the most popular destinations in Lapland for chasing the Northern Lights is Rovaniemi, which proudly holds the title of “Official Hometown of Santa Claus.” Imagine standing under a sky filled with green, purple, and pink hues while surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. It truly feels like your own fairytale come to life. 

While enjoying this celestial show, you can visit Santa Claus Village and meet Santa himself or participate in thrilling winter activities like reindeer sleigh rides or snowmobiling through the pristine forests. Another must-visit spot in Lapland is Levi. 

Situated above the Arctic Circle, Levi offers an excellent chance to witness the Northern Lights and a wide range of exciting winter activities. From skiing on its well-groomed slopes to exploring ice caves or trying ice fishing on one of its frozen lakes, Levi has something for everyone seeking adventure in this winter wonderland. 

After a day filled with exhilarating activities, indulge yourself with traditional Lappish cuisine at one of their cozy restaurants or unwind at a luxurious spa. For those looking for a more remote experience away from tourist crowds, head to Lemmenjoki National Park. 

Here, you can immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness and find solace amidst nature’s serenity while still watching for dancing lights across the night sky. You may even have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness reindeer herding by local Sami people, who have been living harmoniously with nature in this region for centuries. 

Lemmenjoki National Park offers hiking trails, camping opportunities, and the chance to explore the rich culture and traditions of the indigenous Sami community. Lapland offers an extraordinary experience for those seeking the beauty of the Northern Lights. 

Whether you choose Rovaniemi, Levi, or venture into more remote areas like Lemmenjoki National Park, you are guaranteed a mesmerizing display of colors illuminating the Arctic skies. So bundle up and prepare to be awestruck by nature’s splendid light show in one of the most captivating regions in Finland. 

Salla, a charming destination in northern Finland, is an absolute gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Lapland, Salla offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and serene beauty. 

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Finland, Salla should definitely be on your list. One of the highlights of visiting Salla is exploring its pristine wilderness. 

As part of Lapland’s vast natural playground, this region offers incredible hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities. The Urho Kekkonen National Park is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers , encompassing sprawling forests, glistening lakes, and majestic falls. 

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this national park as you traverse its well-marked trails, or simply find serenity by one of its crystal-clear lakes. In addition to its natural wonders, Salla holds cultural significance with its rich Sami heritage. 

The Sami people have inhabited this region for centuries and have left their mark through traditional crafts and cultural practices. Take some time to visit the Sámi Museum Siida to learn more about their way of life or attend one of their fascinating cultural events that showcase traditional music and dance. 

Another notable attraction in Salla is the charming village itself. With its cozy accommodations and local eateries serving traditional Lappish delicacies like reindeer stew or salmon soup, you’ll find that staying in Salla provides an authentic Finnish experience. 

Salla has everything from vast national parks like Lemmenjoki National Park to charming villages and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply searching for a peaceful retreat, this hidden gem in northern Finland will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. 

Jyväskylä

Jyväskylä, located in the heart of Finland, is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Known for its stunning lakes and lush green forests, Jyväskylä is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 

One of the top attractions here is Lake Päijänne, the second-largest lake in Finland. Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for boating, fishing, or simply enjoying a peaceful lakeside picnic. 

For those interested in history and architecture, Jyväskylä doesn’t disappoint either. The city boasts several beautiful buildings designed by Alvar Aalto, one of Finland’s most renowned architects. 

The Alvar Aalto Museum pays tribute to his genius with its impressive collection showcasing his innovative designs. Another gem is the University of Jyväskylä’s Main Building, a masterpiece that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. 

Jyväskylä also hosts the world-famous Neste Rally Finland, part of the FIA World Rally Championship. If you’re a motorsports enthusiast or just love witnessing adrenaline-pumping action firsthand, this event should definitely be on your bucket list . 

The rally attracts drivers from around the globe who showcase their skills on challenging forest tracks. In addition to all these attractions, Jyväskylä offers an abundance of outdoor activities, such as hiking trails in Leivonmäki National Park and exhilarating water sports on Lake Jyväsjärvi. 

Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature or explore fascinating architectural wonders, Jyväskylä has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable adventure in this captivating city that effortlessly combines natural beauty with cultural richness! 

Kemi, a charming coastal town located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, is one of the must-visit places in Finland. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions, Kemi offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. 

One of the top tourist attractions in Kemi is the world-famous Snow Castle. This magnificent structure is built entirely from snow and ice every winter, making it a true marvel to behold. 

Inside the castle, you can explore beautifully carved rooms, visit an ice restaurant, or spend a night in an ice hotel . The SnowCastle also hosts various events and activities like ice sculpting competitions and snow slides that guarantee an unforgettable time for adults and children. 

For those interested in history, a visit to Kemi’s gem, the Kemi Church, should be on your list. Built in the 19th century with its iconic red-brick exterior, this Lutheran cathedral is a testament to Finnish architecture. 

Step inside to admire its elegantly designed interior with intricate woodwork and stunning stained glass windows. The church also houses an interesting museum that sheds light on the town’s history. 

If you’re seeking adventure amidst nature’s splendor, head to Ajos Harbor, where you can embark on an unforgettable reindeer safari across snowy landscapes. Experience the thrill of gliding through pristine forests while being led by these gracious animals who play a significant role in Finnish Lapland’s culture and heritage. 

Kuhmo is a hidden gem in the vast wilderness of Finland. Nestled in the eastern part of the country, this charming town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Kuhmo is known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. 

One of the best things about Kuhmo is its untouched wilderness. The town is surrounded by several national parks, including the renowned Hossa National Park. 

With its crystal-clear lakes, rugged cliffs, and ancient forests, Hossa is a haven for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting. The park also boasts prehistoric rock paintings that glimpse Finland’s rich history. 

For music lovers, Kuhmo is famous for hosting an annual chamber music festival that attracts musicians worldwide. The Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival occurs every summer and showcases some of the finest classical performances in intimate settings. 

It’s a truly magical experience to listen to world-class musicians playing in the heart of Finnish Lapland. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in Finnish culture and traditions, Kuhmo offers plenty of opportunities to do so. 

The town has several museums where you can learn about Finland’s folklore and history. The Juminkeko Foundation Museum introduces visitors to Kalevala, Finland’s national epic poem filled with mythical tales and heroes. 

Additionally, you can explore local handicrafts at workshops or visit traditional farms to experience authentic Finnish farm life. Kuhmo may be off some people’s radar regarding popular tourist destinations in Finland; however, it truly deserves recognition as one of the best places to visit in this beautiful country. 

With its untouched natural landscapes, cultural festivities like the chamber music festival, and opportunities to immerse oneself in Finnish traditions – Kuhmo offers an authentic taste of what makes Finland so special. So, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Finland, explore the wonders of Kuhmo. 

Kajaani is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Finland. This quaint town may not be as well-known as Helsinki, the capital city, but it certainly has its unique charm worth exploring. 

The first thing that will catch your eye when you arrive in Kajaani is its impressive fortress. Known as Kajaani Castle, this historic landmark dates back to the 17th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into Finland’s rich history. 

Aside from its historical significance, Kajaani boasts a picturesque landscape that is simply breathtaking. The town is situated on the banks of the beautiful Lake Oulujärvi, which happens to be the fifth-largest lake in Finland. 

With its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors alike flock to this natural paradise for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. Another highlight of Kajaani is its proximity to the stunning Finnish archipelago. 

From here, you can embark on a scenic ferry ride across numerous islands and witness firsthand the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply looking for peaceful relaxation by the water’s edge, exploring these islands should be on your itinerary. 

If you’re interested in delving deeper into Finland’s culture and heritage while visiting Kajaani, visit the National Museum of Finland in Helsinki. This museum offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts showcasing Finland’s history from prehistoric times to modern-day life. 

It’s an ideal way to gain insight into what makes this country unique. While Kajaani may not be one of Finland’s most well-known tourist destinations, it certainly has its charm and allure for those looking to explore beyond the beaten path. 

From its majestic fortress and stunning lake views to its connection with Helsinki through history and culture at the National Museum of Finland – Kajaani offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler. So, the next time you plan your visit to Finland, take advantage of the opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of Kajaani. 

Oulu: Tech and nature combined

Oulu, located in the northern province of Finland, is a captivating city that seamlessly melds technology with nature. Known as the “Silicon Valley of Finland,” Oulu boasts a vibrant tech scene surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. 

It is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Finland for those seeking a unique and diverse experience. The city center of Oulu is characterized by its modern architecture and bustling atmosphere. 

Walking through the streets, you’ll find various innovative startups, research centers, and universities contributing to Oulu’s status as a leading technology hub. The city’s technological prowess is further exemplified by its commitment to smart infrastructure and digital solutions that enhance everyday life. 

Beyond the urban landscape lies an abundance of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Just a stone’s throw away from Oulu lies the stunning Bothnian Bay, part of the Baltic Sea. 

The archipelago surrounding Oulu offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore its pristine islands, indulge in water activities such as kayaking or fishing, or simply relax on sandy beaches basking in the warmth of Finnish summer days. Moreover, if you’re lucky enough to visit during winter, Oulu becomes a gateway to witnessing one of nature’s most captivating displays—the Northern Lights. 

Embarking on an excursion into Finnish Lapland from here gives you an excellent chance to catch sight of this ethereal phenomenon dancing across the Arctic sky. Oulu provides a harmonious blend of technology and nature—an enticing combination that sets it apart from other Finnish cities. 

Whether you’re fascinated by cutting-edge innovation or yearn for serene natural landscapes just outside your doorstep, this vibrant city has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head northward to explore this hidden gem on your next visit to Finland! 

Joensuu is a charming city located in the eastern region of Finland, known as North Karelia. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination in Finland. 

Nestled on the shores of Lake Pyhäselkä, Joensuu is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offers plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. One of the highlights of Joensuu is its vibrant art and cultural scene. 

The city boasts several galleries, such as the North Karelia Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the region. For those interested in contemporary art, Joensuu Art Museum Onni houses an impressive collection of Finnish modern art. 

If you want to explore the great outdoors, Koli National Park is just a short drive from Joensuu. This stunning national park offers breathtaking views from its highest peak, Ukko-Koli. 

Hiking trails wind through lush forests and around pristine lakes, allowing you to immerse yourself in Finland’s natural beauty. To taste local traditions, visit Carelicum, an open-air museum that exhibits traditional Karelian architecture and showcases the way of life in this region. 

Here, you can learn about traditional crafts like woodcarving and weaving while enjoying delicious Karelian pastries. In addition to its cultural offerings, Joensuu hosts yearly festivals that showcase Finnish music, dance, and folklore. 

The Ilosaarirock Festival draws music lovers across Finland with its diverse lineup featuring local and international artists. Whether seeking outdoor adventures or immersing yourself in Finnish culture, Joensuu is worth visiting while exploring Finland. 

Its proximity to Koli National Park and its vibrant arts scene provide an enriching experience for travelers looking to discover lesser-known gems beyond Helsinki’s bustling streets. So hop on a ferry or take a scenic drive to this beautiful city in northern Finland and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Lappeenranta

Lappeenranta, situated in the southeastern part of Finland, is a charming city with a delightful blend of history, nature, and modern attractions. Known as the “Pearl of South Karelia,” Lappeenranta is a popular destination for locals and tourists. 

One of the top attractions in Lappeenranta is its picturesque waterfront, where you can take leisurely walks along Lake Saimaa’s shores or hop on a boat to explore the stunning archipelago. For history enthusiasts, Lappeenranta has an impressive fortress that dates back to the 18th century. 

The Lappeenranta Fortress, located on a hill overlooking Lake Saimaa, is one of Finland’s best-preserved fortifications from that era. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and admire the panoramic views from its ramparts. 

You’ll also find museums showcasing various aspects of Finnish culture and heritage within the fortress grounds. If you’re in Lappeenranta during winter, embrace Finland’s love for winter sports by visiting the Myllysaari Ski Center. 

It offers excellent downhill skiing slopes suitable for both beginners and seasoned skiers. You can rent equipment on-site or take lessons if you’re new to skiing. 

There are also well-maintained cross-country skiing trails in and around Lappeenranta for those who prefer gliding through serene snow-covered landscapes. Another highlight of visiting Lappeenranta is exploring its vibrant city center. 

Stroll along bustling pedestrian streets with shops, cafes, and restaurants offering delicious Finnish cuisine with traditional and international flavors. Remember to check out local boutiques selling handcrafted items like woolens or unique souvenirs to remember your visit. 

Lappeenranta offers visitors a diverse range of experiences – from exploring historical sites like the magnificent fortress to enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Saimaa and indulging in winter sports activities. This charming city in the southeastern part of Finland truly has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to uncover Finland’s best.

Rauma: UNESCO old town

Rauma, located on the west coast of Finland, is a hidden gem that should be noticed on your trip to Finland. This picturesque town is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which has earned UNESCO World Heritage status. 

As you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll feel like you’ve returned in time. The colorful wooden houses’ charming facades are a testament to the town’s rich history and architectural beauty. 

One of the best things about Rauma is its Old Town Square, known as Kauppatori. Here, you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and admire the stunning 18th-century buildings surrounding it. 

Take a leisurely stroll down Raatihuoneenkatu Street and browse local boutiques showcasing the best Finnish design. From handmade ceramics to traditional textiles, you’ll find unique souvenirs to bring back home. 

For those seeking cultural experiences, a visit to Rauma Art Museum is a must. Housed in an old customs building dating back to 1888, this museum showcases contemporary Finnish art and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing renowned artists around Finland. 

Immerse yourself in the local art scene as you explore thought-provoking installations and captivating paintings. If you’re looking for outdoor adventures around Rauma, head towards Kuuskajaskari Island, located in the archipelago region of Finland. 

This stunning island offers beautiful sandy beaches where you can relax under the sun or take refreshing dips into the Baltic Sea during summer. For thrill-seekers, there are also opportunities for kayaking, sailing, or even trying your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. 

Rauma offers an unforgettable travel experience with its UNESCO Old Town and vibrant cultural scene. Whether strolling through cobblestone streets or exploring local boutiques showcasing Finnish design, this charming town has something for everyone. 

Enjoy visiting nearby islands in the archipelago region to taste Finland’s stunning natural beauty. Rauma is an essential destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the best of Finnish history, culture, and design. 

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Kotka, a city on Finland’s southeast coast, is known for its picturesque landscapes and rich maritime history. As you embark on your trip to Finland, explore this hidden gem that perfectly blends natural beauty and cultural heritage. One of the best places to visit in Kotka is the Sapokka Water Garden, a stunning oasis where nature meets art. 

This unique park features an intricate network of canals, bridges, and waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths while admiring vibrant flowers in bloom and listening to the soothing sounds of flowing water. 

The Sapokka Water Garden provides an enchanting escape from bustling city life and offers numerous spots perfect for picnics or simply relaxing with a book. For history enthusiasts, Kotka Maritime Museum is an absolute must-visit. 

Housed in an old customs house near the harbor, this museum takes you on a fascinating journey through Finland’s maritime past. Explore exhibits showcasing ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts from shipwrecks that tell stories of seafaring adventures. 

Take advantage of touring the museum’s shipyard area, where you can marvel at restored historical vessels up close. If you’re seeking enchanting natural beauty combined with cultural heritage, Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is another highlight in Kotka. 

Located by the beautiful Kymi River, this lodge was once a favorite retreat for Russia’s Tsar Alexander III. Immerse yourself in its elegant surroundings as you walk through historical rooms adorned with exquisite furniture and heirlooms dating back centuries. 

Afterward, stroll along the riverbank trails while enjoying breathtaking views, or try fishing just like the Russian nobility did during their visits. Kotka offers various activities suitable for all types of travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. 

Hämeenlinna

Located in the southern region of Finland, Hämeenlinna is a charming city that perfectly blends history and natural beauty. One of the top places to visit in Hämeenlinna is the medieval Häme Castle, also known as Hämeen linna in Finnish. 

This impressive fortress takes you back in time with its centuries-old walls and well-preserved architecture. Walking through its corridors and climbing the tower provided breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

Another highlight of my trip to Hämeenlinna was visiting Aulanko Nature Reserve, a true paradise for nature enthusiasts. With lush forests, serene lakes, and picturesque trails, this place offered an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

For history buffs like me, visiting Hattula Church is an absolute must. Situated about 20 kilometers from Hämeenlinna, this beautiful cathedral holds great significance as one of Finland’s oldest churches that has remained intact for over 800 years. 

Hämeenlinna truly exceeded expectations with its diverse range of attractions that catered to every interest. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in history at Häme Castle or indulging in nature at Aulanko Nature Reserve, this quaint city has something magical to offer every traveler. 

With its convenient location between Helsinki and Tampere, a visit to Hämeenlinna can easily be incorporated into any Finland travel itinerary. So, add this gem of a city to your list of places to visit in Finland and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of this enchanting province. 

Saariselkä

Saariselkä is a charming winter wonderland in Lapland, Finland’s heart. Known for its pristine natural beauty and serene atmosphere, it offers an array of exciting activities and breathtaking sights, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Finnish experience. 

One of the highlights of Saariselkä is its enchanting reindeer farm, where visitors can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. Imagine meeting these gentle animals, learning about their lives in the Arctic, and even taking a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. 

It’s an experience that truly captures the essence of Lapland’s unique culture. For those seeking more adventure, Saariselkä boasts excellent skiing opportunities. 

With its well-maintained slopes and modern facilities, it caters to beginners and seasoned skiers alike. Whether you’re gliding down the gentle slopes or tackling more challenging runs, the exhilaration of skiing amidst Finland’s stunning landscape is unparalleled. 

Visitors can explore its intricate architecture, marvel at its stunning stained glass windows, or simply take a moment to reflect on its peaceful ambiance. Saariselkä is undeniably one of Finland’s top places to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty while enjoying thrilling adventures. 

This town has something for everyone, from reindeer farms to exhilarating ski slopes and historical landmarks like the cathedral. So whether you’re planning a trip to Finland or seeking new destinations within the country itself, Saariselkä should definitely be on your list of must-visit places in this enchanting land of wonders. 

Hanko, a charming seaside town on the southern coast of Finland, is undoubtedly one of the best things you can experience while visiting this beautiful country. Known as the sunniest town in Finland, Hanko attracts visitors with its idyllic coastal views, sandy beaches , and unique blend of nature and history. 

As you explore this gem of a destination, you’ll soon discover why it’s considered one of Finland’s most beautiful places to visit. One of the main attractions in Hanko is its stunning beaches . 

With over thirty kilometers of coastline along the Baltic Sea, this Finland tourist place offers an array of sandy shores perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge. The most popular beach in Hanko is Bellevue Beach, known for its picturesque setting and crystal-clear waters. 

Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or engage in various water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding, Hanko’s beaches have something for everyone. Besides its breathtaking beaches , Hanko boasts a rich maritime history that adds to its allure as a Finland sightseeing destination. 

The town’s strategic location has made it an essential part of history and left numerous traces of its maritime heritage. Exploring the Hanko Museum will take you on a journey through time as you learn about the town’s significance as a trading hub and witness captivating exhibits showcasing old photographs and artifacts from bygone eras. 

In addition to soaking up sun rays and delving into history, there are plenty more things to do in Hanko. Nature enthusiasts can embark on scenic hikes along picturesque trails that wind through forests and coastal cliffs while offering breathtaking views at every turn. 

Levi, located in the Lapland region of Finland, is undoubtedly one of the most popular and picturesque places to visit in Finland. Nestled amidst enchanting snow-capped mountains and breathtaking natural beauty, Levi offers various activities and attractions that cater to thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation. 

One of the highlights of a visit to Levi is its exceptional ski resort. With well-groomed slopes catering to all levels of expertise, from beginners to seasoned skiers, it’s an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes for an adrenaline-filled adventure or enjoy a leisurely day in the snowy wonderland, Levi has something for everyone. Apart from skiing, Levi also boasts an array of other winter activities. 

You can embark on a mesmerizing reindeer sleigh ride through the tranquil forests or try snowboarding at their professional-grade snowboard park. For those seeking even more excitement, why not hop on a thrilling snowmobile safari and explore the stunning Arctic landscapes surrounding Levi? 

Levi won’t disappoint if you’re more inclined to explore cultural attractions. The village has several charming shops where you can find traditional Finnish handicrafts and souvenirs. 

You might also want to visit the fascinating Samiland exhibition—a unique showcase that delves into Sami culture and traditions. With its pristine natural beauty, exhilarating winter sports opportunities, unique cultural experiences, and warm hospitality from locals who take great pride in their region of Finland, Levi is truly worth a visit. 

Oulanka National Park in Kuusamo

Nestled in the picturesque region of Kuusamo, Oulanka National Park is a true gem among Finland’s natural wonders. This breathtaking park spans over 270 square kilometers and offers visitors an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Oulanka National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, from dense forests to stunning waterfalls and meandering rivers. 

One of the highlights of Oulanka National Park is its impressive network of hiking trails that cater to all levels of expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to embark on your first adventure, there’s a trail for everyone here. 

One popular route is the Pieni Karhunkierros Trail, which takes you on an approximately 12-kilometer journey through lush forests, along riverbanks, and past dramatic gorges. The trail offers breathtaking views at every turn and immerses you in the Finnish wilderness’s tranquility. 

Another must-see attraction within Oulanka National Park is the renowned Kiutaköngäs Rapids. These powerful rapids are formed by the convergence of two rivers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the imagination. 

Standing on one of the viewing platforms overlooking this natural wonder, you can feel the sheer force and energy as water crashes against ancient rocks. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that showcases the raw power and delicate beauty of nature. 

Beyond its scenic landscapes, Oulanka National Park also boasts diverse wildlife that adds to its allure. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive creatures like reindeer and moose as they roam freely throughout their natural habitat. 

Birdwatchers will be delighted by sightings of various avian species fluttering amidst tall trees or soaring high above rugged cliffs. Oulanka National Park truly encapsulates everything that makes Finland an extraordinary destination for those seeking enchanting natural beauty combined with outdoor adventure. 

Whether you’re exploring its hiking trails, witnessing the breathtaking rapids, or simply immersing yourself in the serenity of its surroundings, visiting this park is an experience like no other. So grab your hiking boots and camera and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime in this remarkable corner of Finland. 

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, located in western Lapland, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, this national park offers breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. 

One of the highlights of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a leisurely stroll, routes are available to suit all levels of fitness and abilities. 

The marked trails take you through varied terrain, from lush forests to pristine lakeshores and picturesque falls. As you explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, keep an eye out for native wildlife such as reindeer that roam freely in these unspoiled surroundings. 

For those seeking a more immersive experience in the wilderness, camping is permitted in designated areas within the park. Picture yourself setting up your tent under the starry sky, surrounded by the serene beauty of Finnish nature. 

Waking up to birds chirping and breathing in the crisp morning air is an unparalleled experience that will rejuvenate your spirit. In addition to its natural wonders, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is also conveniently located close to some charming cities worth exploring during your visit to Finland. 

Lake Saimaa

Lake Saimaa is one of the most enchanting destinations in Finland, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Situated in the eastern part of the country, this stunning lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes that will leave you breathless. 

As you explore Lake Saimaa, you’ll have the opportunity to visit various charming towns and cities that dot its shores. One such town is Savonlinna, home to the world-famous Olavinlinna Castle. 

Built in the 15th century, this medieval fortress is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Take a guided tour inside the castle to learn about its intriguing past, or attend one of the renowned opera festivals held here during the summer . 

For nature lovers, Lake Saimaa offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Explore the vast national parks nearby, such as Kolovesi National Park or Linnansaari National Park, where you can immerse yourself in Finland’s pristine wilderness. 

Take a hike along scenic trails, go fishing in tranquil waters teeming with fish species, or simply relax by the lakeside and soak up the serene atmosphere. One unique experience to be noticed when visiting Lake Saimaa is a visit to a reindeer farm. 

These gentle creatures are an integral part of Finnish culture and tradition, and getting up close with them will give you an authentic taste of Finland’s countryside charm. Learn about their way of life from local herders or even take a reindeer sleigh ride through snow-covered landscapes during winter. 

Lake Saimaa captures all Finland offers – from natural wonders to rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this destination has it all. 

So, plan your trip today and discover why Lake Saimaa ranks among the top attractions in Finland.

Helvetinjärvi National Park

Nestled in the heart of Finland lies a hidden gem known as Helvetinjärvi National Park. This stunning natural haven is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility and breathtaking landscapes. As you venture into the depths of this picturesque park, you’ll be greeted by dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged cliffs that seem to have been carved by a divine hand. 

One of the highlights of Helvetinjärvi National Park is its extensive network of hiking trails. Lace-up your boots and embark on an adventure through this enchanting wilderness. 

The trails range from easy strolls along the lakeside to more challenging treks leading to panoramic viewpoints, offering awe-inspiring vistas. Along the way, keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna that call this park their home. 

For those seeking a truly immersive experience in Finnish culture, Helvetinjärvi National Park also offers camping facilities. Spend a night under the starry sky, surrounded by the gentle whispers of nature. 

Build a bonfire and gather around it with newfound friends as you share stories and laughter late into the evening. And what better way to complete your camping experience than with a rejuvenating sauna session? 

After a long day of exploring, unwind in one of the traditional Finnish saunas available within the park. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life in Finland, Helvetinjärvi National Park provides an ideal sanctuary where time seems to stand still. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply craving some peace amidst stunning surroundings, this national park has something for everyone. So grab your backpack and embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Finland’s best-kept secrets – Helvetinjärvi National Park! 

In the northernmost part of Finland lies the enchanting village of Inari. Nestled amidst pristine wilderness and encompassing Lake Inari, this idyllic destination is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and avid adventurers. The allure of Inari lies in its untouched beauty and unique cultural heritage. 

One of the main draws to Inari is its stunning natural surroundings. With vast forests, shimmering lakes, and snow-covered landscapes during winter, it offers a picturesque setting that is a feast for the eyes. 

During winter, visitors can indulge in a wide range of exciting winter sports activities, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Imagine gliding through the frozen landscape on skis or experiencing the thrill of catching fish from beneath a thick layer of ice – these are just some of the unforgettable experiences that await you in Inari. 

Aside from its natural wonders, Inari also holds great significance to Finland’s indigenous Sámi culture. The Sámi people have inhabited this region for centuries, and their rich heritage is showcased at the Siida Museum. 

Here, visitors can learn about their traditional way of life, see intricate Sámi handicrafts, and gain insights into their spiritual beliefs. Immerse yourself in their fascinating culture by participating in reindeer sleigh rides or learning about traditional herding practices from local Sámi guides. 

When visiting Inari, explore Lake Inari – one of Finland’s largest lakes, boasting over 3,000 islands. Rent a boat or take a guided tour to appreciate its expansive beauty. 

You may even be lucky enough to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the night sky during winter. If you’re seeking an escape into nature combined with an immersive cultural experience, look no further than Inari. 

Utsjoki, located in the northernmost region of Finland, is truly one of the best places to visit in this stunning country. While Helsinki, the capital of Finland, maybe a popular spot for Finland sightseeing, Utsjoki offers a completely unique experience. 

Nestled amidst breathtaking scenic landscapes and surrounded by the pristine wilderness of Lapland, Utsjoki is a hidden gem that should not be missed. One of the most beautiful aspects of Utsjoki is its proximity to nature and its incredible wildlife. 

The region boasts an abundance of reindeer farms where visitors can have an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures. Imagine experiencing the thrill of feeding and petting reindeer in their natural habitat – it’s an unforgettable experience that truly captures the essence of Finnish culture. 

For those seeking adventure and outdoor activities, Utsjoki has plenty to offer. During winter, this area of Finland transforms into a wonderland perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. 

Cross-country skiing through snow-covered trails or thrilling snowmobile rides across frozen lakes are just a few examples of the exhilarating activities available here. But Utsjoki isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping adventures; it also provides ample opportunities for relaxation and tranquility. 

The breathtaking natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts who can explore scenic trails while taking in panoramic views. Additionally, during dark winter nights, if you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing northern lights dancing across the sky, your stay in Ustjoki will reach new levels of magic. 

Utsjoki stands tall among Finland tourist places as one of the must-visit destinations for its unparalleled beauty and connection to nature. It offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity that perfectly encapsulates what makes Finland a remarkable country to explore. 

Whether you’re looking for thrilling winter sports or seeking solace amidst stunning landscapes, Utsjoki has something for everyone. So, when planning your trip to Finland, include a visit to this incredible region and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Lahti, a picturesque city in southern Finland, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and urban attractions. Known as the “Sports Capital of Finland,” Lahti boasts an array of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical sites that make it worth exploring. Nestled on the shores of Lake Vesijärvi, the largest lake in Finland’s southern region, this vibrant city has something to captivate every traveler. 

One of the must-visit attractions in Lahti is the Sibelius Hall. This iconic concert hall stands proudly on the shore of Lake Vesijärvi and is renowned for its stunning architecture. 

Named after Jean Sibelius, one of Finland’s greatest composers, this venue hosts various concerts and events throughout the year. Immerse yourself in symphony performances or attend a classical music festival to appreciate Finnish culture at its finest. 

A visit to the Lahti Art Museum is highly recommended for history enthusiasts. Housed within an elegant building with large glass windows overlooking Lake Vesijärvi, this museum showcases an impressive collection of contemporary Finnish art. 

Admire paintings by renowned artists like Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Helene Schjerfbeck as you stroll through its galleries. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight emerging talents from across Finland. 

To experience nature at its finest, head to Messilä Ski Center just outside Lahti city center. Whether you are an avid skier or just looking for winter fun, Messilä has you covered. 

With numerous slopes catering to all skill levels and state-of-the-art facilities offering skiing lessons and equipment rentals, it’s no wonder this place is popular among locals and tourists alike. While Helsinki may be the capital and home to several iconic landmarks in Finland, take notice of other remarkable places like Lahti when planning your trip. 

From its captivating concert halls and art museums to outdoor adventures at Messilä Ski Center, Lahti is a destination that truly encapsulates the spirit of Finland. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the beauty and charm of this unique Finnish town. 

Lemmenjoki National Park

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Lemmenjoki National Park is a hidden gem that showcases the untouched beauty of the Arctic wilderness. Spanning over 2,850 square kilometers, Finland’s largest national park offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. 

The park is known for its pristine landscapes, vast river valleys, and abundant wildlife. One of the most remarkable features of Lemmenjoki National Park is its network of hiking trails. 

Wanderers can explore the park’s diverse terrain, ranging from ancient forests to rugged fells. A popular trail leads adventurers to Ravadas Falls, an impressive cascade that tumbles down rocky cliffs into a crystal-clear stream below. 

As you hike along these trails, watch for reindeer herds gracefully roaming through the wilderness – a sight that epitomizes the true essence of Lapland. For those seeking a truly authentic Finnish experience, Lemmenjoki National Park provides ample opportunities to embrace traditional activities. 

Rent a canoe and paddle along the tranquil Lemmenjoki River as you soak in the serenity and breathtaking scenery surrounding you. If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on gold panning – a unique activity that lets you try to uncover precious nuggets in one of Europe’s last remaining gold rush areas. 

As darkness falls upon this remote corner of Finland, lucky visitors may have the chance to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena – the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. With little light pollution in this secluded region, conditions are ideal for witnessing this ethereal spectacle painting vibrant colors across the night sky. 

Lemmenjoki National Park embodies Finland’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while offering visitors an escape into untamed splendor. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or simply yearning for tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, this enchanting destination should undoubtedly be on your list when exploring the wonders of Finland. 

Suomenlinna

Nestled on a cluster of islands just off the coast of Helsinki, Suomenlinna is a captivating destination that should be on every traveler’s radar when exploring Finland. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a historic sea fortress from the 18th century. Stepping foot on Suomenlinna feels like stepping back in time as you wander through its stone walls, explore its dungeons, and admire its well-preserved buildings. 

One of the highlights of Suomenlinna is its impressive fortifications. As you stroll along the fortress walls, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and the Helsinki skyline. 

The fortifications themselves are incredibly well-preserved, and you can’t help but feel a sense of awe as you imagine what life was like for those who once defended this strategic stronghold. Beyond its historical significance, Suomenlinna also offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Finnish culture and nature. 

The island has several museums that provide insight into Finland’s maritime history and military past. One must-visit spot is the Ehrensvärd Museum, which houses informative exhibits about the fortress’s construction and historical events that took place there. 

For nature lovers, Suomenlinna boasts beautiful walking trails where you can soak up the serene surroundings. You’ll find lush green fields dotted with wildflowers, shady groves perfect for picnicking, and even idyllic spots for swimming or sunbathing during warmer months. 

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from bustling Helsinki, Suomenlinna is undoubtedly one of Finland’s best places to visit. Its unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty makes it an unforgettable destination worth exploring. 

Urho kekkosen National Park

Urho Kekkonen National Park, located in the Finnish Lapland, is a stunning destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over 2,550 square kilometers, this national park offers breathtaking landscapes that truly showcase the beauty of Finland. 

With its diverse flora and fauna, pristine wilderness, and abundance of hiking trails, Urho Kekkonen National Park never fails to captivate visitors. One of the highlights of a visit to Urho Kekkonen National Park is the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of the Northern Lights. 

The park’s remote location from light pollution provides optimal conditions for viewing this celestial spectacle. Imagine standing under a clear Arctic sky as vibrant green, purple, and pink ribbons dance across the horizon—an experience that will leave you in awe. 

To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, visiting during autumn or winter when darkness lingers longer in this part of Finland is best. Apart from chasing the Northern Lights, there are plenty more activities to enjoy in Urho Kekkonen National Park. 

Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by its extensive network of well-maintained trails catering to varying difficulty levels. From leisurely walks through lush forests to challenging treks up rugged peaks offering panoramic views, there is something for everyone here. 

Pack sturdy walking shoes and a camera as you explore this outdoor paradise. To fully immerse yourself in Finnish nature and history while visiting Urho Kekkonen National Park, take some time to explore the Savonlinna Fortress located within its borders. 

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

So, planning to visit Finland soon?

As we conclude our exploration of the enchanting destinations in Finland, it is evident that this Nordic country offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler. From the vibrant streets of Helsinki, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Market Square and indulge in delectable Finnish cuisine, to the breathtaking natural wonders like seeing the Northern Lights or skiing down the slopes in Levi, Finland truly has something for everyone. 

One remarkable landmark that is worth a visit is Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna. This medieval fortress stands majestically on an island and hosts an annual opera festival, attracting music enthusiasts worldwide. 

The combination of history and culture makes this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-see attraction. For those seeking a unique encounter with nature, a visit to a reindeer farm is an unforgettable experience. 

Interacting with these gentle creatures while learning about their importance to Finnish culture gives you an authentic glimpse into traditional Lapland life. Additionally, explore Rovaniemi, where you can feel like a child again by visiting Santa Claus in his village. 

As you plan your journey through Finland’s diverse landscapes and cities, be sure not to overlook Turku Castle. This well-preserved medieval fortress offers captivating guided tours that travel back in time. 

It’s fascinating to imagine how life unfolded within its walls centuries ago. Finland truly deserves its place among the top travel destinations worldwide. 

With its breathtaking natural beauty, such as seeing the Northern Lights or exploring national parks like Pallas-Yllästunturi or Lemmenjoki, as well as rich cultural attractions such as Olavinlinna Castle or Turku Castle, it promises an immersive journey filled with unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags and prepare to embark on an adventure through this enchanting land – Finland awaits! 

Do you need help planning your trip to Finland? Here are my top tips!

• The Best Finland Travel Guide  – My Finland overview, you’ll find everything you’d need to know about Finland.
• When is the best time to visit Finland for northern lights  
• When is the best time to visit Finland – Monthly breakdown
• BEST Places to Visit in Finland  and  Best Cities in Finland  – Cities, and towns you must not miss!
• Things to do in Finland ,  Finland Holidays to Experience ,  Tourist Attractions in Finland  – Touristy stuff, but still worth reading! Finland, in general, offers pretty cool experiences regardless of how “hyped” it is.
• If you’re staying in Helsinki, you can book your  hotel stay in Helsinki  or  near Helsinki airport .
• Cities to visit during a short visit:   Helsinki ,  Porvoo ,  Tampere ,  Turku ,  Ålands , Hanko , and  Vaasa .
• When to visit?  Summer ,  Autumn ,  Spring , and  Winter  – Decide when to come and then base your activities on that!
• How to dress for winter in Finland  – Always dress according to the weather. It will make your experience much better!
• Top tips and important info:   Supermarkets in Finland ,  Budgeting tips for Finland ,  Tipping in Finland ,  What to wear in Sauna ,  Sauna etiquette ,  Public Saunas in Helsinki
• Finnish culture introductions:   How to say hello ,  Finnish food and cuisine ,  Facts about Finland ,  Finnish Breakfast Guide , Finnish drinks

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

9 thoughts on “35 BEST Places to Visit in Finland”

I will definitely consider visiting some of these places in the near future. Thank you for this insightful article.

Finland is breathtakingly beautiful! I would love to visit Kemi and Savonlinna. These places are truly like dream destinations. Is there any best time to visit?

Hi Rashmi! Thank you for dropping by. The best time to visit depends on you and what you want to do. Normally we recommend to visit during summer as Finnish winter can be harsh for some foreigners but if you do want to experience the Northern lights, skiing, and other winter sports then of course winter is the best time to visit 🙂

Finland is truly a magical place would love to venture off here especially in the Lapland regions to seethe northern lights.

This email doesn’t need to be published, either. You are in serious need of proofreading here, half the time one doesn’t even know what country one is in… I volunteer, since obviously you don’t have anybody yet.

Not sure what you mean by “half the time one doesn’t even know what country one is in”. I’m pretty sure I know I’m in Finland if I’m in it?

Wow these are all great spots. Reminds me of my time in Finland as an exchange student. Beautiful country with a lot of nature to explore

Thanks, Philip! Hope you enjoyed your time here in Finland 🙂

Love the article. My family and I Had a wonder 11 days in Finland last year. I wish we had more time to explore all the cities in the article. However, you haven’t mentioned the Naantali home of Moomin world, or Saarisëlka with its charm and the famous Kakslauttanen arctic resort, where Santa lives.

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A guide to Finnish customs and manners

Get to know the Finns with our abbreviated but thorough guide – a starter kit for keeping up with the Finnish culture.

The use of modern information technologies has revolutionized the image of Finnish communication skills.

Finland is an easy country to visit. Finnish customs and manners are clearly European, with only a few national variations, and attitudes are liberal. There is very little chance of a visitor committing fundamental social gaffes or breaches of etiquette that would fatally damage relations between himself and his hosts. Such breaches are viewed by Finns with equanimity if committed by their own countrymen and with understanding or amusement if committed by foreigners. Codes of behaviour are fairly relaxed, and reputations – good or bad – are built up over time as the result of personal actions rather than conforming to norms or standards. It is difficult in Finland to make or break a reputation with a single social blunder.

Finland is a country where considerable weight is attached to the spoken word – words are chosen carefully and for the purpose of delivering a message. Indeed, there are very few other culture-specific considerations that visitors need be aware of. Finns place great value on words, which is reflected in the tendency to say little and avoid ‘unnecessary’ small talk. As the Chinese proverb puts it, “Your speech should be better than silence, if it is not, be silent.”

Finns have a very strong sense of national identity. This is rooted in the country’s history – particularly its honourable wartime achievements and significant sporting merits – and is today nurtured by pride in Finland’s high-tech expertise. Being realists, Finns do not expect foreigners to know a lot about their country and its prominent people, past or present, so they will be pleased if a visitor is familiar with at least some of the milestones of Finnish history or the sports careers of Paavo Nurmi and Lasse Viren. Finns would be happy if visitors knew something about the achievements of Finnish rally drivers and Formula 1 stars, or if they knew that footballers Jari Litmanen and Sami Hyypiä are Finns. Culturally oriented Finns will take it for granted that like-minded visitors are familiar not only with Sibelius but with contemporary composers Kaija Saariaho and Magnus Lindberg, and orchestral conductors Esa-Pekka Salonen, Jukka-Pekka Saraste, Sakari Oramo and Osmo Vänskä. While Finns are aware that Nokia is often mistakenly thought to be a Japanese company, this misconception is viewed forgivingly but with pity. They are proud that Linus Torvalds, the inventor of Linux, is a Finn.

Visitors should also be prepared to encounter the other side of the Finnish national character: Finns are chronically insecure about whether the wider world is aware of the achievements of this northern nation. Finns love reading things written about them abroad, and visitors should not feel uncomfortable being asked repeatedly what they think of Finland. However, although Finns are ready enough to criticize their own country, they do not necessarily wish to hear visitors doing so.

As far as religion is concerned, there are very few dangers for visitors to Finland, even on subjects that in other cultures might be particularly sensitive. Most Finns belong formally to the Evangelical-Lutheran Church (about 83%), while 1.1% belong to the Finnish Orthodox Church; but people in general are fairly secular in their views. Despite this, the Church and its ministers are held in high esteem, and personal religious views are respected. It is difficult to observe differences between believers and everyone else in everyday life, except perhaps that the former lead more abstemious lives.

There is a high degree of equality between the sexes in Finland, as can be seen in the relatively high number of women holding advanced positions in politics and other areas of society.

There are numerous women in academic posts, and in recent years visiting businessmen have also found increasing numbers of ‘the fairer sex’ on the other side of the negotiating table. The Evangelical-Lutheran Church of Finland accepts the ordination of women, and there are women priests in numerous parishes. The first female Finnish bishop in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland is Irja Askola. She is reigning Bishop of Helsinki since 2010.

Chauvinistic or patronizing attitudes towards women are generally considered unacceptable, although such attitudes do persist in practice. Women do appreciate traditional courtesy, although ultimately they appraise men on the basis of their attitude towards equality. Women are usually independent financially and may offer to pay their share of a restaurant bill, for instance. A man may politely refuse such an offer, but it is equally polite to accept it.

In international contexts, or when using foreign languages, particularly English, Finns have become accustomed to politically correct language in which traditional masculine terms are replaced with gender-neutral ones (e.g. ‘chairperson’); or the third person singular pronoun is offered in both forms (he/she) when they exist. In Finnish the latter problem does not exist. Instead, the third person singular pronoun hän covers both genders. There are also many titles ending with the suffix – mies (man) that are not considered gender-specific. It is appropriate for visitors to follow the established practice of whatever language they are using.

The conception that Finns are a reserved and taciturn lot is an ancient one and does not retain the same validity as it used to, certainly not with the younger generations. Nevertheless, it is fair to say that Finns have a special attitude to words and speech: words are taken seriously, and people are held to what they say. “Take a man by his words and a bull by its horns,” says a Finnish proverb. A Finn will carefully consider what he (or she) says and expect others to do so too. He (or she) considers verbal agreements and promises binding, not only upon himself but upon the other party too, and he (or she) considers that the value of words remains essentially the same, regardless of when and where they are uttered. Visitors should remember that invitations or wishes expressed in a light conversational manner (such as: “We must have lunch together sometime”) are often taken at face value, and forgetting them can cause concern. Small talk, a skill at which Finns are notoriously lacking, is considered suspect by definition, and is not especially valued.

Finns rarely enter into conversation with strangers, unless a particularly strong impulse prompts it. As foreigners often note, Finns are curiously silent in the metro, the bus or the tram. In lifts, they suffer from the same mute embarrassment as everyone else in the world. However, a visitor clutching a map will have no trouble in getting advice on a street corner or in any other public place, since the hospitality of Finns easily overrides their customary reserve.

Finns are better at listening than at talking, and interrupting another speaker is considered impolite. A Finn does not grow nervous if there are breaks in the conversation; silence is regarded as a part of communication. Finns usually speak unhurriedly, even in their mother tongue (the pace of newsreading on Finnish TV is a source of amusement for many foreigners), and although many Finns are competent in several foreign languages, they may be wary of the speed at which these languages are spoken. Nevertheless, Finns can become excited and voluble, given the right situation.

Having once got to know a stranger moderately well, Finns are quite willing to discuss any topic; generally not even religion or politics are taboo. Finland is one of the world’s leaders in the reading of books and newspapers and the use of libraries, and thus the average Finn is fairly well informed on what is happening in Finland and in the world. Finland’s membership of the EU has increased interest in other EU countries, and the common currency, the status of agriculture and the effects of Community legislation are viable topics of conversation wherever two or three Union citizens come together. Though Finns enjoy bitching about the niggling directives of ‘Brussels bureaucrats’ as much as the next man, in general they seem to approve of EU membership and recognise its benefits.

Shared hobbies are a natural topic for conversation and exchange of opinions in Finland as elsewhere, and it can be easy to strike up a lively conversation with a Finn about culture and the arts on the one hand and about sports on the other. Sports is a particularly feasible topic because in recent years Finns have enjoyed success in sports other than the traditional long-distance running and winter sports: there are now world-class Finnish footballers, racing drivers and alpine skiers, and consequently amateurs and enthusiasts in these fields too. Golf has established itself securely especially among urban Finns, even though they are obliged to abandon this pastime for the winter months. This deprivation is an eminently suitable topic for conversation on the part of a visitor who is familiar with the world of drivers and putters.

Information technology

The now ubiquitous mobile phone is revolutionizing the image of Finnish communication skills. The persistent, supposedly amusing ringing tones of the phones demonstrate how eager people are to talk to each other, especially when they are not face to face. One foreign journalist described a scene that he considered typically Finnish: a lone man sitting in a bar with a beer and speaking into a cell phone. A Finnish version of small talk? Communication without intimacy?

The use of mobile phones is governed in Finland, as indeed in other countries, by a loosely defined etiquette which forbids their use if disruptive or dangerous, so using a mobile phone is completely forbidden on aeroplanes and in hospitals. During meetings it is inappropriate. In pubs and restaurants it may be regarded by many as irritating but it goes on regardless. At concerts, at the theatre and in church it is barbaric and considerate people switch their phones off in those places.

Mobile phones have no doubt changed visitors’ perceptions of Finland. Whereas a few decades ago a visitor might report back home on an uncommunicative, reserved and introvert Arctic tribe, the more common view today is that of a hyper-communicative people who are already experiencing the future that some fear and others hope for: a society where anyone can reach anyone else, no matter where or when.

All over the world, the Internet and e-mail have radically changed how people find information and keep in touch, and Finland is no exception. For young people, using the ever-increasing range of IT applications is commonplace, and it is also an important factor in shaping youth culture. Increasingly, politicians and corporate managers set up websites and maintain personal blogs to comment publicly on their lives and views.

A Finn’s mother tongue is either Finnish, Swedish (5.6% of the population are Swedish speakers) or Saami (some 8,000 native speakers). Finnish belongs to the small Finno-Ugrian language group; outside Finland it is understood (and to some extent spoken) in Estonia. And in Sweden, too, Finnish is spoken among the large number of Finnish immigrants. Finns take care of their linguistic communication by maintaining a wide range of foreign languages in the school curriculum.

English is widely spoken in Finland and in the business community some companies use it as their house language. German is no longer widely taught but many Finns in their 50s or older learned it as their first foreign language at school. French, Spanish and Russian have grown in popularity both in schools and among adult learners. Membership of the European Union and the related practical and social demands have increased the need to study European languages, at least in the case of Finns who travel in Europe on business or are studying abroad.

Educated Finnish speakers, particularly those working in the public sector, speak Swedish to some degree whilst almost all Swedish-speaking Finns speak Finnish too. Only in some coastal areas and in the autonomous province of the Åland Islands is Swedish the dominant language, indeed in Åland it is the only official language. The status of Swedish as the joint official language of mainland Finland can be seen in the bilingual names of public institutions and in street signs, the latter case depending on the percentage of minority language speakers resident in a given municipality, and in the Swedish-language programmes on radio and TV. Swedish-speaking Finns have a distinctive culture, and their social mores are influenced by Scandinavian traditions moreso than amongst the Finnish-speaking majority.

Names and titles

When introducing themselves, Finns will say their forename followed by their surname. Women who use both their maiden name and their husband’s surname will state them in that order. Although Finns are conscious and proud of any official titles they may have, they rarely mention these when introducing themselves. In contrast, they do expect to be addressed by their title in professional and official contexts: Doctor Virtanen, Managing Director Savolainen, etc. Foreigners, however, are not expected to follow this practice, with the exception of the titles “doctor” and “professor” if these are known to the speaker. Otherwise, foreigners can safely address Finns using the English practice of calling them Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms, Sir or Madam, as appropriate.

The familiar form of address in Finnish (i.e. the second person singular pronoun sinä , as opposed to the formal second person plural pronoun te ) is commonly used, not just between friends and acquaintances but among strangers too. It is usual nowadays for people in a workplace to address each other as sinä , up to and including senior management, at least in larger workplaces. Using sinä is common today in service occupations, too, although older people may resent the implied familiarity. However, young people still tend to address middle-aged or elderly people by the formal second person plural if they do not know the persons well.

Although the use of the familiar sinä is common, using first names requires a closer relationship. It is relatively easy to get onto first-name terms with a Finn, especially if it is evident that the parties will continue to meet regularly for business or pleasure. However, it is felt appropriate that the use of first names is specifically and mutually agreed upon. The use of first names is always proposed by the older or more senior person to the junior, or, in the case of equals, by the woman to the man; the agreement is enacted by shaking hands, making eye contact, with each party saying their first name aloud, and nodding the head. Raising a toast with schnapps, wine or champagne lends a festive air to the occasion.

Apart from this, Finns are not nearly as demanding in remembering names as many other people are. It is not usual to address people by name when greeting them (regardless of how familiar one is with them) or in the course of a normal conversation. Addressing by name has trickled into Finnish culture from the American practice, but as nice as it is to hear one’s name spoken, Finns will not be offended if they are not addressed by name.

Businessmen and persons in public office are expected to distribute business cards as a means of ensuring their name and title are remembered. There are no special rituals related to exchanging business cards in Finland. For a visitor, receiving a business card provides a convenient opportunity to ask how a name is pronounced or what a cryptic title might mean.

When greeting, the parties shake hands and make eye contact. A deep bow denotes special respect – in normal circumstances, a nod of the head is enough. A Finnish handshake is brief and firm, and involves no supporting gestures such as touching the shoulder or upper arm. When greeting a married couple, the wife should be greeted first, except on a formal occasion where the hosts should first be greeted by the spouse to whom the invitation was addressed. Children are greeted by shaking hands too. Embracing people when greeting them is rare in Finland. A man greeting someone in the street should raise his hat; in the cold of winter, a touch of the hand to the brim of the hat is enough.

Finns can kiss as well as the next nation, but they rarely do so when greeting. Hand-kissing is rare. Friends and acquaintances may hug when meeting, and kisses on the cheek are not entirely unknown, although this habit is not generally found in rural areas. There is no special etiquette regarding the number of kisses on the cheek; however, most Finns feel that three kisses is going a bit far. Men very rarely kiss each other in greeting, and never on the mouth in the manner of our eastern neighbours.

Finnish cuisine has western European, Scandinavian and Russian elements. Table manners are European. Breakfast can be quite substantial. Lunch is usually eaten between 11:00 and 13:00, a typical lunch break at work lasting less than an hour. The once common long business lunches have shrunk to 90 minutes or two hours. Evening meals at home are eaten around 17:00 or 18:00. In most restaurants, dinners are served from 18:00 onwards. Many restaurants stop serving food about 45 minutes before they actually close, so it is worthwhile checking the serving times when booking a table. Concerts and theatre performances usually begin at 19:00, and audiences adjourn to restaurants at around 22:00.

Restaurant menus and home cooking rarely involve food that western visitors would not be acquainted with. Increased nutritional awareness has made the once heavy, fatty Finnish diet lighter, and the better restaurants can cater for a variety of dietary requirements. Ethnic restaurants, constantly increasing in number, have added to the expanding choice. Beer and wine are drunk with restaurant food in the evening, but at lunchtime these days they feature very little, if at all.

At a dinner party, the host determines the seating order if necessary. The guest of honour is seated to the right of the hostess (or the host, if it is a men-only dinner). This is a seat dreaded by most Finns, since the guest of honour is expected to say a few words of thanks to the hosts after the meal. Guests should not begin to eat until everyone has been served; usually, the host will propose a toast at the beginning of the meal, wishing his guests hyvää ruokahalua , the Finnish for bon appétit ! It is not appropriate for guests to drink before this, unless the beginning of the meal is badly delayed.

Finns seldom make speeches during a meal, but they do so on formal occasions. In such cases, the speeches are made between courses. During the meal, the host may toast individual guests, or guests may toast each other, by raising their glasses and making eye contact. Once the toast is drunk, eye contact should be made again when lowering the glass to the table.

A meal normally concludes with coffee and postprandial drinks are served with it or immediately after. If the hosts allow smoking, this is the moment to bring out the cigars and cigarettes, unless of course the host has already allowed or suggested this earlier. When leaving the table, the guests should thank the hosts briefly for the fare when they get the chance, regardless of whether the guest of honour has done so or not.

Finns consume the equivalent of slightly over ten litres of pure alcohol per person per year, which is close to the European average. Drinking habits mainly follow Scandinavian and European practices.

However, consumption of wine and beer, as opposed to spirits, has increased in recent years, and as a result more decorous drinking behaviour has become more common. Consumption of alcohol at lunchtime is less common in the business world than it used to be, and in the public sector it is extremely rare.

Alcohol consumption varies somewhat, according to socio-economic differences and, to some extent, by region. The influence of central European or Mediterranean drinking habits is primarily visible among urban middle class young adults and slightly older Finns with tertiary education.

The import and sale of wines and other alcoholic beverages is largely controlled by the state-owned Alko organisation, and private individuals can only buy alcoholic beverages in Alko shops, with the exception of medium strength beer and cider, which can be bought in food stores. Alko is a major buyer of wines and stocks a wide and geographically representative selection of all qualities, including top labels. Many restaurants import their own wines directly from suppliers abroad.

In households wine is normally reserved for weekend meals, but meals prepared for guests or eaten in a restaurant usually involve wine. Often – and in the case of Swedish-speaking Finns, almost always – a meal is preceded by schnapps, a shot of vodka or aquavit in a tiny glass. This is considered an integral part of cold fish courses, and absolutely essential with crayfish. Swedish-speaking Finns have a custom of enlivening the occasion with a line or two of a drinking song before each shot of schnapps. Big dinner parties have an appointed toastmaster who determines the interval between shots and leads the singing. Finnish-speaking Finns have a less elaborate and less structured drinking etiquette, although there are schnapps songs in Finnish too. Schnapps is usually accompanied by mineral water, or sometimes beer, which is also commonly served with meals. Beer is also used to slake the thirst created by the sauna.

Visitors can approach Finnish drinking customs as they see fit. It is not necessary to drink a shot of schnapps in one gulp even if your neighbour does. So it is enough to raise the glass to one’s lips without swallowing. It is also perfectly acceptable to request mineral water or non-alcoholic wine with a meal. Lunch is usually accompanied by non-alcoholic beverages in any case, and non-alcoholic drinks are usually provided. Abstinence is also supported by legislation; in Finland, the blood alcohol level for drunken driving is very low, and the penalties are severe.

Tipping has never fitted very comfortably into the Finnish way of life. This may have originally been due to the traditions of a religion which emphasized frugality; today, the rather blunt reason for not tipping is that the price paid includes any unusual instances of service or politeness i.e. the view taken is that “service is included”. Tipping does nevertheless exist in Finland, and you can feel safe that while nobody will object to being tipped, very few will mind not being tipped.

As a rule, service is included in restaurant bills. However, an extra service charge is often added to bills which are to be paid by a customers’ employers. Those who pay for their own meals and in cash often choose to round the bill up to the nearest convenient figure. This does not require any complicated arithmetic from the customer, as no one cares whether the tip really is 10-15% of the total bill.

Tipping at hotels is fairly rare. If you know that you have caused extra inconvenience for the room cleaner, it would be regarded as an appropriate to leave a tip. Receptionists should be tipped only by long-term guests at the hotel. Like their colleagues across the world, Finnish hotel porters will be glad to be tipped the price of a small beer. It is also OK to leave a few coins on the bar for the bar staff.

Taxi drivers do not expect to get a tip, but customers often pay the nearest rounded up figure to the actual fare. Major credit cards are usually accepted in taxis, and in this case tipping in cash is practical.

If you are the guest of Finnish hosts, you should leave any tipping to their discretion.

Smoking has decreased in recent years, and attitudes towards it have become more negative. The law prohibits smoking in public buildings and workplaces and, being generally law-abiding, Finns have adapted to this legislation. Nevertheless, smoking is still quite common, in all age groups. International trends have increased the popularity of cigars amongst a minority of tobacco smokers.

As have many other countries, Finland has banned smoking in most restaurants and other licensed premises completely.

Smokers are expected to be considerate. When invited to a private home, a guest should ask the hosts if they object to smoking, even if there are ashtrays visible. Smokers may be guided to the balcony, which may have the effect of reducing the intake of nicotine considerably in cold weather.

The home is to a great extent the focus of social life in Finland – to a greater extent at least than in countries where it is more common to meet over a meal in a restaurant. There are cultural, and also economic, reasons for this. A growing interest in cooking and wines has led to an increase in entertaining in the home. A foreign visitor need have no qualms about being invited into someone’s home; he can expect a fairly relaxed and informal atmosphere, and sending or bringing a bunch of flowers or a bottle of wine for the hosts will be appreciated.

A greater cultural challenge for the visitor is accepting an invitation to one of the innumerable summer dwellings that dot the seashores and lakeshores of Finland. One in four Finns owns a summer cabin, and for many, it is regarded as a second home. Sociologists like to explain that the summer dwelling is a tie that Finns maintain to their rural past; and it is true that many Finns transform into surprisingly competent fishermen, gardeners, farmers, carpenters or foresters when they withdraw to their summer homes.

A guest is not expected to take part in this role-play, at least not actively. On the other hand, he is expected to submit without complaint to the sometimes primitive conditions at the summer residence, since not all of them have electricity, running water, a flushing toilet or other urban amenities Many families consider that even a TV set is incompatible with genuine summer cabin life.

A guest is expected to dress casually but practically when going to a summer cabin. The hosts will have rubber boots, raincoats and windcheaters that are worn as the weather dictates or when going fishing, picking mushrooms or walking in the forest. An experienced guest understands that under these conditions the hosts, particularly the hostess, have to go to a lot of trouble to give the guest an enjoyable stay. Help with routine chores is greatly appreciated: peeling the potatoes or the onions is a job the guest can safely offer to undertake.

The best reward for the hosts is that guests enjoy themselves, rain or shine. As for correctness, it would be polite for a guest to raise the question of departure at breakfast time on the third day, and only agree to stay longer if the hosts protest with particular conviction.

Time and the seasons

Although seasons occur everywhere, in Finland they mark the progress of the year with striking conspicuousness. Extending far beyond the Arctic Circle, Finland enjoys such extremes of temperature and daylight that it would not be too far-fetched to say that there are two cultures in Finland: one dominated by the almost perpetual daylight of the summer sun and surprisingly high temperatures, and the other characterized by mercilessly cold winters and Arctic gloom that only briefly gives way to twilight during the day.

Even though summer comes every year, it is considered so important that virtually the entire country ‘shuts down’ for the five or six weeks that follow Midsummer, which falls in late June. After Midsummer, Finns move en masse to their vacation homes in the countryside and those who do not spend their time out of doors, in street cafés and bars, in parks and on beaches, being social and feeling positive. Business and personal correspondence may be temporarily shelved, e-mails cheerfully return ‘out of the office’ notifications for a month or more, and conversations between acquaintances revolve more around how the fish are biting or how the garden is doing than around important issues of international politics or the economy. It is easy for a visitor to observe that in summer Finns are especially proud and happy to be Finns and to live in Finland, and encouraging these feelings is welcome.

With the advent of winter, Finns close down their summer dwellings, store their boats in dry dock, put snow tyres on their cars, stash their golf gear in the basement and check their skis. Whereas the rural ancestors of today’s Finns whiled away the long winter days in making and repairing tools for summer, their descendants labour in offices to make their country an increasingly efficient and modern high-tech marvel.

Finns are punctual people and, in one sense, prisoners of time. As is the case elsewhere in the world, those holding the most demanding jobs have tight daily schedules; missing appointments can cause anguish. Agreed meeting times are scrupulously observed, to the minute if at all possible, and being over 15 minutes late is considered impolite and requires a brief apology or an explanation. Concerts, theatre performances and other public functions begin on time, and delays in domestic rail and bus traffic are rare.

In general, busy lifestyles have come to stay and a diary full of meetings and negotiations is a matter of pride and a status symbol in Finland rather than a demonstration of poor scheduling. In such an environment, the time allocated for the entertaining of guests is one of the most important indicators of the value attached to the occasion. When a Finn stops glancing at his watch and suggests something more to eat or drink, or even a sauna, the visitor can rest assured that a lasting business relationship, or friendship, is on the cards.

Finns like celebrations and Finland’s calendar of official festivals is not very different from that of other European countries. One major difference is that the Protestant Lutheran calendar does not accommodate all the feast days of Catholic tradition. Visitors may find it strange that Finns have calm and serious festivities on occasions that would be boisterous and joyful in continental Europe.

Christmas, and Christmas Eve in particular, is very much a family festival in Finland, usually spent at home or with relatives. Customs include lighting candles by the graves of deceased family members. Finns wish each other ‘Merry Christmas’, but equally often they say ‘Peaceful Christmas’. Christmas Day is generally a quiet day and Christmastide social life does not restart until Boxing Day.

December 6 is Independence Day, an occasion marked with solemn ceremonial observances. It is a day for remembering those who fell in the wars to protect Finland’s independence, which was achieved in1917. In the evening, the President of the Republic hosts a reception for some 2,000 guests – including the diplomatic corps accredited to Finland – and watching this reception on TV has evolved into a favourite pastime for the entire nation.

In wintertime, Shrove Tuesday is just about the only festive occasion where public merrymaking can be observed, though even this is not even a pale reflection of the carnivals held in more southerly lands. Logically enough, the most flamboyant annual parties in Finland occur at a warmer time of year. May Day, internationally a festival day for workers and students, can with justification be described as a northern version of Mardi Gras, and Midsummer – the ‘night of no night’ – is an occasion for uninhibited rejoicing, as for most Finns it marks the beginning of summer holidays and a move to the summer dwelling in the countryside.

A nation of five million people with 1.5 million saunas has no need to acquire a formal sauna education – learning to bathe in the sauna comes as naturally as learning to speak. Visitors would do well to have their first encounter with the sauna in the company of a Finnish friend or acquaintance, rather than following a mechanical set of instructions that reduces sauna bathing to a drill by numbers.

In Finland, both men and women bathe in the sauna, but never together except within the family. There are no mixed public saunas in Finland. A visitor hesitant about having a sauna should remember that if it has been heated specially for him or her, it is a matter of pride for the hosts, and only medical constraints are an acceptable reason for not trying it.

Having a sauna is something natural to all Finns, yet people do have their own ways of bathing in the sauna. But Finn would never say to another that he is ‘doing it wrong’. It is a matter of preference. This is a good principle to follow for the visitor too: listen to your own body and follow your own rhythm in moving between the hot room, the washing room and the open air, perhaps including the lake or the sea. It is helpful to follow what others are doing, but avoid extremes: some Finns feel the need to demonstrate their tenacity by sitting in a scalding hot sauna for inordinately long periods. In such a situation, a wise visitor will quietly slip out to consume some liquid and enjoy the scenery. On the other hand, it can be equally rewarding to surrender to unknown rituals with an open mind. The feeling of being slapped on the skin with a bundle of soft birch leaves in the heat of the steam room can be a pleasant therapeutic experience.

The sauna is no place for anyone in a hurry. When the bathing is over, it is customary to continue the occasion with conversation, drinks and perhaps a light meal. A guest’s comments on the sauna experience will be listened to with interest, After all, this is a subject that Finns never tire of talking about.

By professor Olli Alho, November 2002, updated March 2010 Illustrations by Mika Launis

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• Classical Music
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• Contemporary Music
• Jazz / Blues
• Theatre and Literature
• Children and Young People

August 2024

September 2024, october 2024, november 2024, january 2025, february 2025, september 2025, april jazz, espoo.

19 April 2024 – 27 April 2024 | Espoo

Art Center Salmela, Mäntyharju

8 June 2024 – 11 August 2024 | Mäntyharju

Avanti! Summer Sounds, Porvoo

27 June 2024 – 30 June 2024 | Porvoo

Baltic Jazz, Taalintehdas

5 July 2024 – 7 July 2024 | Taalintehdas

BRQ Vantaa Festival

7 August 2024 – 11 August 2024 | Vantaa

Crusell Music Festival, Uusikaupunki

22 July 2024 – 28 July 2024 | Uusikaupunki

Folklandia, Turku-Kapellskär

10 January 2025 – 11 January 2025 | Turku

Full Moon Dance Festival, Pyhäjärvi

July 2025 | Pyhäjärvi

Haapavesi Folk Music Festival

27 June 2024 – 29 June 2024 | Haapavesi

Helsinki Chamber Music Festival

3 July 2024 – 6 July 2024 | Helsinki

Helsinki Contemporary Opera Festival

15 August 2024 – 1 September 2024 | Helsinki

Helsinki Festival

Hetta music event, enontekiö.

April 2025 | Hetta

Hippalot – Arts Festival for Children, Hämeenlinna

1 August 2024 – 4 August 2024 | Hämeenlinna

Iitti Music Festival

12 June 2024 – 15 June 2024 | Iitti

Ilmajoki Music Festival

7 June 2024 – 16 June 2024 | Ilmajoki

Joroinen Music Festival

19 July 2024 – 28 July 2024 | Joroinen

Jyväskylä Festival

3 July 2024 – 9 July 2024 | Jyväskylä

Kaakko Festival, Virolahti

3 July 2024 – 6 July 2024 | Virolahti

Kalottjazz & Blues Festival, Tornio/Haparanda

27 June 2024 – 29 June 2024 | Tornio

Kangasniemi Music Festival

12 July 2024 – 21 July 2024 | Kangasniemi

Kauniainen Music Festival

25 October 2024 – 3 November 2024 | Kauniainen

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival

8 July 2024 – 14 July 2024 | Kaustinen

Kimito Island Music Festival

8 July 2024 – 14 July 2024 | Kemiönsaari

Kokkola Winter Accordion Festival

8 February 2025 – 15 February 2025 | Kokkola

Korsholm Music Festival, Korsholm/Vaasa

24 July 2024 – 31 July 2024 | Korsholm

Kotka Maritime Festival

24 July 2024 – 27 July 2024 | Kotka

Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival

14 July 2024 – 27 July 2024 | Kuhmo

Kuopio Dance Festival

12 June 2024 – 18 June 2024 | Kuopio

KUULAS – Children’s Theatre Festival, Kouvola

23 May 2024 – 25 May 2024 | Kouvola

Lahti Organ Festival

5 August 2024 – 11 August 2024 | Lahti

Lahti Sibelius Festival

29 August 2024 – 31 August 2024 | Lahti

Lahti Winter Carnival for Children

25 January 2025 – 16 February 2025 | Lahti

Lieksa Brass Week

26 July 2024 – 3 August 2024 | Lieksa

Lohtaja Church Music Festival

23 July 2024 – 28 July 2024 | Lohtaja

Loviisa Sibelius Festival

2 September 2022 – 4 September 2022 | Loviisa

Lux Helsinki

January 2025 | Helsinki

Meidän Festivaali / Our Festival, Järvenpää/Tuusula

28 July 2024 – 3 August 2024 | Järvenpää

Midnight Sun Film Festival, Sodankylä

12 June 2024 – 16 June 2024 | Sodankylä

Mikkeli Music Festival

3 August 2024 – 11 August 2024 | Mikkeli

Mukamas 2024 – International Puppet Theatre Festival, Tampere

11 September 2024 – 15 September 2024 | Tampere

Music by the Sea, Inkoo

7 June 2024 – 9 June 2024 | Inkoo

Music in Ruovesi

27 June 2024 – 30 June 2024 | Ruovesi

Musica nova Helsinki

March 2025 | Helsinki

Mänttä Art Festival, Mänttä-Vilppula

16 June 2024 – 31 August 2024 | Mänttä

Mänttä Music Festival

30 July 2024 – 3 August 2024 | Mänttä

Naantali Music Festival

4 June 2024 – 15 June 2024 | Naantali

Nurmes Summer Music

29 June 2024 – 7 July 2024 | Nurmes

Organ Night and Aria Festival, Espoo

6 June 2024 – 29 August 2024 | Espoo

Orivesi Summer Festivals

1 June 2022 – 14 August 2022 | Orivesi

Oulainen Music Week

27 October 2024 – 17 November 2024 | Oulainen

Oulu August Festivals

31 July 2024 – 25 August 2024 | Oulu

Oulu Music Festival

March 2025 | Oulu

Pellinge Music Festival, Porvoo

8 August 2024 – 11 August 2024 | Porvoo

PianoEspoo Festival

September 2025 | Espoo

Pispala Schottische Dance Mania, Tampere

September 2025 | Tampere

Pispala Schottische, Tampere

12 June 2024 – 16 June 2024 | Tampere

12 July 2024 – 20 July 2024 | Pori

Puistoblues (Lakeside Blues Festival), Järvenpää

6 July 2024 – 6 July 2024 | Järvenpää

Rauma Festivo Chamber Music Festival

6 August 2024 – 10 August 2024 | Rauma

Riihimäki Summer Concerts

4 June 2024 – 9 June 2024 | Riihimäki

Rusk Chamber Music in Jakobstad

19 November 2024 – 23 November 2024 | Pietarsaari

Salo – Children’s Song City

6 June 2024 – 9 June 2024 | Salo

SAMPO International Puppet Theatre Festival, Helsinki

28 August 2024 – 1 September 2024 | Helsinki

Sastamala Gregoriana – Early Music Festival

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• Kazakhstan, Finland Strengthen Trade and Transport Ties at Commission Meeting

By Aibarshyn Akhmetkali in Business , International on 12 April 2024

ASTANA – The 13th meeting of the Kazakh-Finnish Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation was held in Astana to discuss prospects of cooperation in transport and trade on April 11, reported the press service of the Kazakh Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources.

Photo credit: invest.gov.kz

Other topics on the agenda were higher education, industry, geology, energy, forestry and water resources.

Transport and logistics

Kazakh Vice Minister of Transport Maksat Kaliakparov emphasized the strategic importance of Kazakhstan in the field of transport and logistics.

“Kazakhstan is the main link in the Middle Corridor and has already shown potential as an alternative to East-West routes. This is evident in the 86% growth in cargo transhipment through the seaports of Aktau and Kuryk, which almost doubled to 2.8 million tons,” said the vice minister, as quoted by Kazinform news agency.

“TITR (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) is a green corridor. Today, a reduction of cargo transit time from 23 to 14-18 days has been achieved, with Kazakhstan’s [transit time] reducing to five days. According to the results of 2023, there is an increase in the volume of cargo transportation through TITR by 65%,” he added.

In 2023, rail transport saw a 25% increase compared to 2022, moving a total of 4.3 million tons, while road transport rose by 14% compared to the previous year’s figures.

“For the purpose of container cargo transportation development on a route, China-Finland-China KTZ Express signed the memorandum of cooperation with the Finnish logistic operator Nurminen Logistics Services Oy,” said Kaliakparov. 

The document is supposed to develop cargo transportation and start joint container services from China to Finland and on TITR through the territory of Kazakhstan, he added..

The Kazakh official invited the Finnish side to consider the possibility of resuming direct regular flights between the two countries based on the memorandum of understanding between the aviation authorities of Kazakhstan and Finland signed in 2019.

“Designated carriers of both sides have the right to perform direct flights between the countries with a frequency of 14 flights per week from each side on any type of aircraft,” he said.

“Kazakhstan plays a key role in the development of the Trans-Caspian route. I would like to emphasize that we are ready to continue our fruitful cooperation with Kazakhstan in transportation and logistics,” said Mikko Kivikoski, deputy director general of the department for Russia, Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.

Trade cooperation

Kazakh Vice Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Zhomart Aliyev highlighted the stable level of trade between Kazakhstan and Finland.

“Bilateral trade turnover between the two countries for 2023 amounted to $208 million – an increase of 3% compared to 2022. Exports from Kazakhstan to Finland amounted to $3 million, which is a 93.1% decrease, while imports from Finland to the Republic of Kazakhstan increased by 30.5%, accounting for $205 million,” said Aliyev, as quoted by Kazinform.

According to him, direct investment from Finland to Kazakhstan accounted for $409.5 million from 2005 up to the third quarter of 2023, with $11.6 million recorded for 2023 alone.

Aliyev emphasized that Kazakhstan is working to improve the investment climate and today offers good conditions for investors.

“At the same time, Kazakhstan is taking measures to facilitate the relocation of large industrial enterprises and international corporations to the country. In this regard, thanks to the consistent improvement of the business climate in Kazakhstan, Finnish businesses can get a new platform for their relocation with the possibility of entering the market of the Central Asian region. Considering the above, we invite Finnish companies to open their representative offices in Kazakhstan,” said Aliyev.

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