finland tourist places

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

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

veger/Getty Images

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

Lindrik/Getty Images

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.

Related Articles

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. 

Follow me on Instagram , where you’ll see more personal tips about living in Finland from a local resident chef and content creator 🍃🍃🍃

📚 Do you want to learn the Finnish language for FREE ? Check out Spark Your Finnish course! 🇫🇮 How about diving into Finland’s culture? Here’s another FREE culture class to learn how to connect with Finns ❗️ Be insured before your trip to Finland and  get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about  why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to  find cheap flights to Finland using Skyscanner  or  find deals now

Table of Contents

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. 

🛏️ Book your hotel ahead of time to get the best deals, click here to find the best hotels to stay in Helsinki !

🧳 One of the best way to explore a new destination stress-free is through guided tours! Check this out to find the best tours in Helsinki .

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. 

Where to stay in Finland? Find great deals and book your hotel through this link !

Don’t want to stress about what to do? Book tours to make your trip easier and more exciting !

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

Are you on Pinterest? Pin this for later reading!

• Pinterest 9.6K

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.

Comments are closed.

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You're awesome for doing it!

Getty Images/Moment RF

Finland's fusion of wild beauty, contemporary design and culinary excellence is a beguiling mix. Throw in winter magic and irresistible summers, and you've one cool country.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Finland. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna, the ‘fortress of Finland’, straddles a cluster of car-free islands connected by bridges. This Unesco World Heritage site was originally built…

Hossa National Park

Central Finland

Founded in 2017 to commemorate Finland's centenary of independence, the country's 40th national park stretches over 11,000 hectares of glittering lakes…

Serlachius Museum Gösta

Once the private home of Gösta Serlachius, this world-class art gallery is one of Finland's premier cultural attractions. Situated 2km east of Mänttä's…

Villa Mairea

Finland's West Coast

This fantastic villa is considered one of the 20th century's architectural masterpieces and the pinnacle of Alvar Aalto's career. It is the former home of…

Bomarsund Fästningsruin

Åland Archipelago

Following the war of 1808–09, Russia began building this major military structure as its westernmost defence against the Swedes. The fortress was still…

Säynätsalon Kunnantalo

The Finnish Lakeland

One of Aalto's most admired works, this town hall was conceived as a 'fortress of democracy' and constructed between 1949 and 1952. Its sturdy brick tower…

Occupying a palatial 1887 neo-Renaissance building, Finland’s premier art gallery offers a crash course in the nation’s art. It houses Finnish paintings…

Kastelholms Slott

One of Åland’s premier sights is this striking 14th-century castle on a picturesque inlet (signposted off Rd 2). The keep towers are 15m high in parts,…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 15 best things to do in finland.

Hotelli Vanha Rauma

Once a warehouse in the old fish market, this is now the only hotel in the Old Town proper. Its 20 rooms embrace modern Scandinavian design, with lino…

Kauppahalli

Filled with speciality products, this historic covered market also contains the ininen Juna Aschan Café, in a converted-train carriage, run by top-quality…

Wilderness Hotel Inari

Just outside town, this terrific lakeside place has a cosy feel in its tastefully decorated rooms and cabins, with some igloos as well. The decor features…

Finland's famous glass manufacturer – established in 1881 in the southern Finnish town of the same name and later shaped by Alvar Aalto – has a central…

Rauma Museum

Rauma Museum encompasses four sites, the most interesting of which is Marela, the period-furnished home of a wealthy 19th-century merchant family. The…

Originally founded by architects and designers Alvar Aalto and his wife Aino Aalto in 1935, this iconic Finnish company maintains the simple design…

Santa's Grotto

Santa sees visitors year-round in this impressive grotto, with a huge clock mechanism (it slows the earth’s rotation so that Santa can visit the whole…

One of Finland's most absorbing museums, state-of-the-art Siida offers a comprehensive overview of the Sámi and their environment. The main exhibition…

Design Museum

Punavuori & Ullanlinna

An unmissable stop for Finnish design aficionados, Helsinki's Design Museum has a permanent collection that looks at the roots of Finnish design in the…

Built inside a cavern in the mountain, this Christmas-themed amusement park features an army of elves baking gingerbread, a magic sleigh ride, a carousel,…

Vanha Kauppahalli

Alongside the harbour, this is Helsinki's iconic market hall. Built in 1888, it’s still a traditional Finnish market, with wooden stalls selling local…

Bright pinks, yellows and ubiquitous black and white form the basis for the prints by this iconic Finnish designer that has infiltrated the world of…

Lumihotelli

The snow hotel's interior temperature is -5°C (23°F) – somewhat temperate when the outside temperate is closer to -30°C (-22°F) – but a woolly sheepskin…

Wilderness Hotel Nellim

Northern Lapland

At this wonderfully remote lakeside property, the pick of the options are the 'aurora bubbles': perspex-domed cabins where you can watch the spectacle of…

Muumimaailma

Turku & Finland's South Coast

Crossing the bridge from the Old Town to Kailo island takes you into the delightful world of the Moomins. The focus is on hands-on activities and…

Santa Claus Village

The ‘official’ Santa Claus Village is built atop the Arctic Circle marker, denoted by a line painted on the pavement (Arctic Circle certificates cost €4…

Enter the world of Tove Jansson’s enduringly popular Moomins at this impressive museum in Tampere-talo. It contains original drawings and beautiful…

At the heart of Helsinki's historic harbourside market hall Vanha Kauppahalli, this sparkling cafe sources its produce from the surrounding stalls…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From sauna culture to meeting Santa, this is everything you don't want to miss in Finland.

Transportation

From design-savvy cities to endless forests, Finland is easy to explore by public transport. Here’s our guide to the best ways to get around in Finland.

Visa Requirements

Do you need to arrange a visa before your trip to Finland? Read our guide to find out.

Money and Costs

From Lapland snow fun to Helsinki’s trophy sights, get the lowdown on how to see Finland on a budget and make your euro stretch that bit further.

Best Road Trips

Drive along seas and lakes – and even see Santa at work – on these fabulous Finland road trips.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Finland

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Finland

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Nov 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Oct 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Jun 1, 2022 • 10 min read

May 29, 2022 • 10 min read

May 22, 2022 • 6 min read

May 16, 2022 • 10 min read

May 14, 2022 • 4 min read

May 10, 2022 • 10 min read

May 6, 2022 • 8 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Finland

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Finland with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Finland and beyond

Home » Travel Guides » Finland » 25 Best Things To Do In Finland

25 Best Things To Do In Finland

Finland is perhaps not as well visited as other countries in northern Europe and as a result it still has an ‘other-worldly’ quality to it.

When people think of Finland they imagine majestic forests and stunning natural landscapes all of which you will find here, but if you prefer a little urban sprawl then you can still spend time in charming big cities like Helsinki and Turku .

One of the main reasons that people travel to Finland is take in all its wintery delights, be it visiting Father Christmas at SantaPark or riding with reindeer in Lapland.

If you like skiing then you will love the range of ski resorts dotted around the country, and in the summer months you can enjoy warmer weather that is perfect for hiking and biking.

Of course, the most famous of all Finland’s attractions are the mighty Northern Lights, which most people consider the highlight of a trip to this part of the world.

Lets explore the best things to do in Finland :

1. Meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus at SantaPark

If you don’t want to go all the way to the North Pole then why not visit Rovaniemi in the north of Finland? Here you will find Christmas delights such as an Elf School and you can even meet Santa and Mrs. Claus who will teach you how to make gingerbread treats.

There is a Calligraphy School where you can pen a letter to Santa and a Post Office where the elves will show you all the mail they receive over the course of the year.

The main highlight here is to cross the Arctic Circle via an underground tunnel.

If you are travelling with children then make sure not to miss this Winter Wonderland experience in Finland.

2. Learn some history at Siida Museum

Located on gorgeous Lake Inari in Inari is the Siida Museum which is said to be one of the best museums in Finland.

The museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Sami, or the Laplanders of Finland who were a semi-nomadic tribe.

At Siida Museum you will find nature exhibits as well as photographic galleries and interactive information sections.

The galleries chart the history of the Sami from ancient times until the modern day and you will also find engaging rotating galleries and a theater that has shows about the aurora, also known as the Northern Lights.

3. Dine at Restaurant Aanaar

Also located in Inari is Restaurant Aanaar which looks out over the breathtaking Juutuanjoki’s Jäniskoski Rapids.

The reason why locals and visitors alike flock here is for the delicious plates that are all made from seasonal local ingredients and have an emphasis on less well known products such as angelica root and reindeer heart which is served with a zingy sauce made from pine needles.

You can also try the trout from Lake Inari as well as smoked beetroot and butter made from nettles.

4. Explore Olavinlinna

Olavinlinna is a castle that sits in Savonlinna and dates from the 15th century.

The castle is famed for its three dominating towers and was constructed on a rock in the center of a glassy lake to afford it more protection from enemies.

To get to the castle you will need to walk across a series of creaking bridges and the inside is a maze of ornate towers and serene chapels.

There are guided tours here which last an hour and will fill you in on all the history of daily life in the castle in the days of old.

5. Have a picnic at Suomenlinna

If you are looking for a day trip from neighboring Helsinki then consider taking the ferry to Suomenlinna Fortress.

The fortress is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built in 1748. It was originally erected by the Swedes before being captured by the Russians and then being regained by the Finns when they declared independence after the Russian Revolution.

Suomenlinna is a vast complex of 8 islands surrounded by 6 kilometers of walls and has some 290 different buildings, 100 guns and intact cannons.

It is also the location of 6 museums where you can learn all about Finland’s history.

The grounds are also a popular sport for picnicking and it can get quite busy at the weekends.

6. Go skiing in Levi

Levi is the best loved ski resort in all of Finland and is also the location of the Alpine World Cup Race which is held here every year.

You will find an amazing 43 different slopes here that are perfect for all different abilities as well as 26 ski lifts.

There are 124 miles of trails here and these include cross country ski sections as well as black runs for downhill skiers.

If you like snowboarding then there is also a dedicated snowboard park in the resort.

Anyone that doesn’t ski can also find a range of activities to enjoy here including husky sled rides and a cute reindeer park.

7. Visit the animals at Helsinki Zoo

Helsinki Zoo has a long and illustrious history having first opened its doors in 1889, making it one of the oldest zoos in the world.

It sits on Korkeasaari Island and has an impressive 150 different species of animals as well as 1,000 kinds of plants.

The island spans 52 acres and you will find animals as diverse as camels, bears, wolverines, monkeys, and lions.

The zoo is segregated into sections including Amazonia, Africasia, and Borealia.

As you would imagine the zoo also has an abundance of Nordic animals like wolves, reindeers, elks, and bison.

8. Dig for amethysts at the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine

The amethyst fell located in Lampivaara dates back 200 million years and is the only surviving mine of its kind that still exists in Europe.

To get to the mine you need to either hike or take a snowmobile through the Pyhä-Luosto National Park until you reach the hillside where the mine is situated.

Once there you can learn all about the history of amethysts in Finland as well as dig for them yourself using traditional techniques that have been used for centuries.

Incredibly you can even keep any amethysts you find as long as they are smaller than the size of a fist.

9. Enjoy the Archipelago National Park

Nestled near Turku is the Archipelago National Park which was first inaugurated in 1983. The islands that make up the park offer a mixture of Finnish, Swedish, and Russian heritage and you will be surrounded by limpid sea and seemingly never-ending horizons.

Some ways to explore the abundance of rugged flora and fauna here is to rent a boat such as a sailboat or kayak and island hop at your leisure.

You can also check out the aquatic life like serene seals and babbling sea geese, or enjoy a spot of fishing as the waters here are filled with trout and pike.

10. Explore Seurasaari Open Air Museum

If you are in Helsinki and looking for something to do outside of the city then consider a trip to Seurasaari Island.

Here you will find an enchanting open air museum that will fill you in on everything you need to know about traditional life in Finland in the days of old.

The museum has 87 different buildings that date from the 18th and 19th century which include elaborate manors, traditional folk houses and farm buildings.

Local guides will take you on a tour while dressed in period garb to help you get in the mood, and you can learn about traditional crafts such as embroidery and spinning.

There are even folk dancing shows and traditional foods on sale if you fancy a taste of old fashioned Finland.

11. Shop at Market Square

Market Square in Helsinki is also known as Kauppatori and is the main square in the center of the city.

It is one of the most popular markets in northern Europe and has views over the spectacular Baltic Sea to the east.

Here you will find a wide range of local produce such as flowers, vegetables, fruits and baked goods.

This is also an arts and crafts market so it is the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs of your trip to Finland.

12. Watch the Imatrankoski Rapids

The Imatrankoski Rapids are one of the most popular attractions in Finland outside of Helsinki.

The rapids date back 5,000 years and would have been the result of gushing waters from nearby lakes.

Now a large dam has been built and the rapids are released several times a day in the summer months so that visitors can enjoy the spectacle of the surging waves.

13. Have fun at Särkänniemi Amusement Park

Särkänniemi Amusement Park in Tampere is known for its fast paced rides and varied attractions that are fun for all the family.

The park has a large aquarium as well as a planetarium and a children’s zoo.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can also take in the views of surrounding Tampere from the observation tower which is called the Näsi Needle.

There are a range of rollercoasters here to enjoy like the Sky Rocket, the Tornado, and the Half Pipe and for younger visitors there are calmer rides like the Whirly Worm.

14. Explore Lake Saimaa

If you are in the east of Finland then don’t miss the chance to check out Lake Saimaa which is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in Finland.

There is a reason that Lake Saimaa actually means ‘Lake of a Thousands Lakes’ and you will find over 1,300 square kilometers of water as well as a number of dainty islands.

The shores of the lake give way to amazing lush forest lands and hiking and biking are both popular pursuits in the area.

15. See the Northern Lights

Many people come to Finland just to see the Northern Lights which is usually a travel highlight of a lifetime.

The Northern Lights can be spotted from different points in Finland but the best place to travel to is Lapland which is where you have the highest chance of success.

If you are coming just for the lights then try to time your trip between September and March when they are at their most visible.

The Northern Lights are actually caused by the glow of particles from the Sun as they enter the atmosphere of the earth and can only be seen around the North and South Poles.

16. Check out Pyhä-Luosto National Park

If you are looking for a picture perfect part of Finland then head for the Pyhä-Luosto National Park where you will find miles of pine forests and dramatic gorges and peaks.

The park is home to the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine but it also has 90 miles of walking trails so if you enjoy hiking then this really is a must-visit attraction.

Some of the main points of interest in the park are the Pyhä Waterfall as well as Isokuru which is famous for being the deepest gorge in the country.

There are also 75 miles of ski trails here and you can go snowmobiling or enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride.

17. Explore Turun Linna

Turun Linna is also known as Turku Castle and if you are in the city of Turku in the southwest of Finland then this is not to be missed.

The castle is famous for several of its signature features such as two dominating dungeons as well as ornate banquet halls.

It is also the place to come if you want to know more about the history of Turku and there are galleries that will tell you how the castle morphed from a medieval fortress to a Renaissance masterpiece.

There are guided tours held here over the summer months from June to August which are perfect for anyone who wants to know more about the former residents of Turun Linna.

18. Marvel at Lumilinna

Lumilinna is actually better known as Lumilinna Snow Castle of Kemi and if you are in the area then you should definitely make the trip here.

The castle has everything you would expect, such as towers, walls, and a drawbridge but the twist is that it is all made out of compacted snow and ice.

It is rebuilt every year after it melts during the spring months and the interior is as exquisite as the exterior.

Here you will find thrones, four poster beds, and ice sculptures and you can even stay here overnight or eat in the snow restaurant.

19. Visit the Aland Islands

The Aland Islands sit between Sweden and Finland and are technically their own autonomous region while also being a province of Finland.

Aland is comprised of over 10,000 small islands and has a population of around 27,500 people.

The main town is called Mariehamn and as this used to be a prime trading port you can learn all about nautical history at the Maritime Museum.

Other highlights are the Museum Ship Pommern and you can stroll around the Maritime Quarter which still stands proud in the town.

The easiest way to get to Mariehamn is to take a ferry across from either Turku in Finland or Stockholm in neighboring Sweden.

20. Meet the animals at Salla Reindeer Park

Salla is one of the last parts of Finland which still has a wild reindeer population that are looked after by traditional herders who have worked with these amazing animals for generations.

At the park you can not only enjoy the snow covered scenery but also go on a range of tours such as sleigh rides and canoe outings.

The park also offers ice fishing and if you are feeling brave you can even try ice swimming here.

For something a little less adventurous there are a number of gentle hikes all over the park that take you through scenic marshlands and enchanting forests.

21. Marvel at Kummakivi Balancing Rock

Kummakivi means ‘Strange Rock’ in Finnish and if you are traveling to Ruokolathi then it is not to be missed.

The rock sits in a section of forest and balances atop a smaller rock, almost as if by magic.

Legend has it that that the rock was placed here by giants in the days of old although it is more plausible that it was carried here by a glacier which then melted leaving the rock perched in its precarious position.

The rock is thought to be around 8,000 years old so if you like geology then this one of the most amazing feats of nature in Finland.

22. Go to the beach at Hietaniemi

On the outskirts of Helsinki is the area known as Hietaniemi which nestles on the coast of Finland.

Here you will find an unexpected golden sandy beach and also a number of shops where you can rent kayaks and canoes to take to the water.

There are also some parks that sit close by so that you can enjoy the coastal breezes as well as a range of local eateries.

If it’s too cold to enjoy the beach then there is also a sauna here where you can heat up in style.

23. Venture inside Högberget Cave

Located close to Helsinki is Högberget Cave which is also known as the ‘Womb of Mother Earth’. The area around the cave is famous for its hiking trails that cut through the beautiful Finnish countryside and adventurous trekkers can walk to the cave which opens out of the side of a rugged granite cliff.

The cave is said to date from the Ice Age and you can venture inside the gaping hole in the side of the mountain and take in all the majesty of this stunning relic from a bygone era.

24. Sleep under the stars at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

Tucked away in the wilderness for which Finland is so well known is Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort which is a great pace for intrepid travelers looking to get away from the main tourist spots of Sweden.

The resort has the claim to fame of having glass igloos that let you look up directly at the Northern Lights and you can book one of these to sleep in overnight.

The resort dates from 1973 which is impressive as it looks like something out of a science fiction film.

25. Enjoy Linnanmäki Amusement Park

If you are looking for a little fun in Helsinki then consider a visit to the Linnanmäki Amusement Park which also happens to be the most popular amusement park in Finland.

Signature features of the park include its iconic water tower as well as a pretty Ferris wheel that gives you views across the city skyline.

The park first opened its doors in 1950 and has a range of both classic and modern rides that all age groups can enjoy.

25 Best Things To Do In Finland:

• Meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus at SantaPark
• Learn some history at Siida Museum
• Dine at Restaurant Aanaar
• Explore Olavinlinna
• Have a picnic at Suomenlinna
• Go skiing in Levi
• Visit the animals at Helsinki Zoo
• Dig for amethysts at the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine
• Enjoy the Archipelago National Park
• Explore Seurasaari Open Air Museum
• Shop at Market Square
• Watch the Imatrankoski Rapids
• Have fun at Särkänniemi Amusement Park
• Explore Lake Saimaa
• See the Northern Lights
• Check out Pyhä-Luosto National Park
• Explore Turun Linna
• Marvel at Lumilinna
• Visit the Aland Islands
• Meet the animals at Salla Reindeer Park
• Marvel at Kummakivi Balancing Rock
• Go to the beach at Hietaniemi
• Venture inside Högberget Cave
• Sleep under the stars at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
• Enjoy Linnanmäki Amusement Park

15 Best Places to Visit in Finland 2024

Discover the Arctic wonderland of Finland with these top 15 must-visit destinations. From its vibrant capital city to pristine national parks, let this guide take you on a journey through the best of Finland.

• Helsinki - Capital Charm: Explore Helsinki's modern architecture, historic sites like Suomenlinna Fortress, and lively Market Square.
• Santa Claus Village - Arctic Wonder: Experience Lapland's magic at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, known for winter sports, Northern Lights, and meeting Santa.
• Åland Islands - Maritime Paradise: Visit Åland Islands for a blend of Swedish-Finnish culture, picturesque landscapes, and outdoor activities amid the archipelago.
• Lakeland - Tranquil Retreat: Immerse yourself in Lakeland's serene beauty, featuring lakes, charming villages, and activities like kayaking and sauna experiences.
• Archipelago National Park - Coastal Beauty: Discover the breathtaking Archipelago National Park, a haven for nature lovers with its islands and islets, ideal for peaceful coastal retreats.

Best Places to Visit in Finland , these words conjure images of pristine natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Finland, known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide with its enchanting beauty and unique experiences. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a culture lover, Finland offers a plethora of winning destinations to explore in 2024 and 2025 . From the mesmerizing Northern Lights to the charming cities and breathtaking national parks, Finland is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. For those seeking tranquility amidst nature, the national parks are one of the best things to do in Finlanda . 

As we embark on the journey to discover the best places to visit in Finland in 2024 and 2025, let's immerse ourselves in the wonders of Finnish Lapland, the vibrant city of Helsinki, and the breathtaking national parks. Finland beckons with its diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, promising an unforgettable adventure. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of wanderlust, and get ready to explore the winning destinations of Finland

1- Helsinki Finland’s Southern Capital

Helsinki, the vibrant southern capital of Finland, is one of the famous Europe places that effortlessly blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. If you're considering a visit to this remarkable destination, there are a few things you need to know to make the most of your experience. From its captivating architecture to its thriving culinary scene, Helsinki has much to offer. Let's delve into the essential travel tips and insights that will ensure your journey is a memorable one. First and foremost, when planning your visit to Helsinki, it's crucial to consider the seasons. The city truly comes alive during the summer months, from June to August, when the long days and pleasant weather create a lively and energetic atmosphere. This is the perfect time to explore Helsinki's outdoor attractions, such as the beautiful Esplanade Park and the iconic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. However, if you prefer a more tranquil and snowy experience, winter in Helsinki, from December to February, offers the enchanting allure of snow-covered streets, cozy cafes, and the possibility of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

When it comes to getting around the city, Helsinki's efficient public transportation system is a traveler's best friend. The trams, buses, and metro provide convenient access to all major attractions, and a Helsinki Card can offer unlimited travel as well as discounts on popular sights. Additionally, the city is quite pedestrian-friendly, making it a joy to explore on foot. Remember to pack comfortable shoes and take advantage of the city's well-maintained walking paths. Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, offers a delightful mix of modern urban attractions and natural beauty. Start your exploration by visiting the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece that dominates the city skyline. Take a stroll through the historic Market Square, where you can indulge in Finnish delicacies and shop for local crafts. For art enthusiasts, a visit to the renowned Ateneum Art Museum is a must, showcasing Finnish and international masterpieces. Explore the unique architecture of the Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church), built directly into solid rock. To immerse yourself in Finnish culture, head to the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Helsinki offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. For a luxurious experience, consider Hotel Kämp, an elegant five-star hotel in the heart of the city. Prices for a standard room start at around $300 per night. If you're looking for a mid-range option, Hotel Fabian is a popular choice, offering stylish rooms with rates averaging $150 per night. Budget travelers can opt for Hostel Suomenlinna, located on the historic Suomenlinna Island, with prices starting at around $50 per night. The best time to visit Helsinki is during the summer months from June to August when the city comes alive with European festivals , outdoor activities, and long daylight hours. The average temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Spring and autumn also offer pleasant weather but with slightly cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter, from December to February, brings snow and chilly temperatures, creating a magical atmosphere for those who enjoy winter sports and holiday festivities.

2- Rovaniemi in Finland

Rovaniemi, located in the beautiful country of Finland, stands out as an enchanting and captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique experience. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi offers a wealth of attractions in Europe and natural wonders that make it one of the best places to visit. Nestled amidst the pristine Arctic landscape, visitors can revel in the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights, as Rovaniemi sits right on the Arctic Circle. The city is also home to Santa Claus Village, a magical place where young and old alike can meet Santa Claus himself, send postcards from the Arctic Circle, and explore a range of festive activities.

For those seeking adventure, Rovaniemi provides opportunities for thrilling experiences such as reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and snowmobile excursions through the stunning Lapland wilderness. Moreover, the Arctic Wildlife Park offers a chance to encounter arctic animals in their natural habitat, including reindeer, polar bears, and lynx. The Arktikum museum provides fascinating insights into the Arctic region's history, culture, and unique ecosystems. Rovaniemi's charming cityscape is dotted with cozy cafés, restaurants serving delectable Finnish cuisine, and traditional Sami handicraft shops, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. Whether you're captivated by the idea of meeting Santa Claus, longing to witness the dancing colors of the Northern Lights, or craving thrilling Arctic adventures, Rovaniemi is undoubtedly a must-visit destination that promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3- Nuuksio National Park  in Finland

Nestled amidst the picturesque Finnish countryside, Nuuksio National Park emerges as a true gem and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Situated just a stone's throw away from Helsinki, Nuuksio offers a serene escape from bustling city life, making it one of the best places to visit in Finland. The park spans over 50 square kilometers and showcases a diverse range of landscapes, including lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged cliffs. Hiking trails crisscross through the park, guiding visitors to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden gems. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hiker, Nuuksio has a trail suited for every level of fitness and adventure.

Along the way, you'll encounter tranquil lakeshores where you can rest and admire the surrounding beauty or even take a refreshing swim during the summer months. The park is also home to an array of wildlife, including elusive owls, majestic eagles, and agile deer, offering nature lovers an opportunity to spot and appreciate Finland's rich biodiversity. Nuuksio National Park is particularly renowned for its tranquility and the sense of serenity it imparts to its visitors.

The peaceful atmosphere creates a perfect setting for activities such as meditation, yoga, and simply disconnecting from the fast-paced world. For those seeking a more immersive experience, camping sites are available within the park, allowing you to spend the night under the starry Finnish sky. Additionally, guided nature walks and workshops are offered, enabling visitors to learn about the park's flora, fauna, and cultural heritage. Nuuksio National Park showcases Finland's pristine natural beauty, providing a sanctuary for those seeking solace in the outdoors and a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature.

4- Kilpisjarvi in Finland

Kilpisjärvi in Finland is a splendid destination that holds a special allure for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Located in the far northwestern part of Lapland, Kilpisjärvi is a small village surrounded by stunning wilderness, making it an ideal place to visit. The village is situated on the shores of Lake Kilpisjärvi, with Sweden and Norway bordering nearby, creating a tripoint known as the "Three-Country Cairn."

Kilpisjärvi is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast tundra, and serene lakes. One of the prominent features of the area is Saana, a majestic fell that offers spectacular hiking opportunities. Climbing Saana rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and the opportunity to witness the midnight sun during the summer months.

The region is also home to Finland's highest peak, Halti, which attracts experienced hikers and mountaineers seeking a challenge. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the numerous hiking trails that wind through the wilderness, immersing themselves in the beauty of Arctic flora and fauna. In winter, Kilpisjärvi transforms into a winter wonderland, offering excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even aurora hunting.

For those interested in cultural experiences, Kilpisjärvi offers a glimpse into the unique indigenous Sami culture. Visitors can learn about Sami traditions, art, and handicrafts through guided tours and cultural events.

Furthermore, the village provides various amenities such as accommodations, restaurants, and visitor centers, ensuring a comfortable stay and access to information about the area.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, stunning natural landscapes, or a cultural experience, Kilpisjärvi in Finland promises an unforgettable journey into the Arctic wilderness.

5-Porvoo in Finland “The History Town”

Porvoo, known as " The History Town " is a charming and historical place located in southern Finland. With its well-preserved medieval old town and rich historical significance, Porvoo offers a unique blend of culture, architecture, and scenic beauty.

One of the main highlights of Porvoo is its old town, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Strolling through its narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful wooden houses and charming boutiques, transports visitors back in time. The old town is home to iconic landmarks such as Porvoo Cathedral, a magnificent red-brick church that dominates the skyline, and the Porvoo Museum, which provides insights into the city's past.

The riverside promenade, known as the Porvoo River Walk, is a delightful spot to explore. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the idyllic riverfront, watch boats pass by, and relax in cozy cafés and restaurants. The red ochre warehouses lining the riverbanks add to the town's historic charm.

Porvoo is also famous for its artisans and craftsmanship. The town is dotted with artisan workshops, galleries, and boutique stores where visitors can discover unique handmade products, including ceramics, glassware, textiles, and traditional Finnish crafts. The lively local market square, where fresh produce, delicacies, and handicrafts are sold, is another must-visit spot.

To delve deeper into Porvoo's history, the Porvoo City Museum and the Runeberg Home Museum are considered one of the best museusms to visit in Europe that offer captivating exhibitions and displays. These museums showcase the town's past, including its connection to Finland's national poet, Johan Ludvig Runeberg, who lived and worked in Porvoo.

Nature enthusiasts will also find solace in Porvoo's surroundings. The nearby Porvoo Archipelago presents a stunning coastal landscape, with its countless islands, rocky shores, and tranquil waters. Exploring the archipelago by boat or kayak allows visitors to appreciate the area's natural beauty.

Porvoo's historical significance, architectural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene make it a perfect destination for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil and captivating Finnish experience.

6- Hanko in Finland

Hanko, a picturesque seaside town located on the southern coast of Finland, offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and a vibrant summer atmosphere. Known as the " Riviera of the North " Hanko attracts visitors with its sandy beaches , charming harbor, and an array of recreational activities.

The town's main attraction is its stunning coastline, featuring numerous sandy beaches in Europe that stretch along the Baltic Sea. These beaches provide a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside picnics during the warm summer months. Visitors can also enjoy various water sports, such as sailing, kayaking, and fishing, making the most of Hanko's maritime charm.

Hanko's history as a spa town is reflected in its elegant wooden villas and grand buildings. Many of these structures date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Hanko served as a popular summer retreat for the Finnish nobility and Russian aristocracy. Taking a leisurely stroll through the streets, visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and immerse themselves in the town's nostalgic ambiance.

The Hanko Museum offers a glimpse into the town's past, showcasing exhibits on the area's history, maritime heritage, and its role as a strategic port during different eras. The museum is housed in an old customs warehouse, adding to its charm and historical significance.

Hanko's vibrant summer scene comes alive with its lively events and festivities. The Hanko Regatta, the largest sailing event in the Nordic countries, attracts sailors from around the world to compete in thrilling races. The Hanko Music Festival brings together talented musicians who perform in various genres, from classical to jazz, enchanting audiences with their performances.

Nature lovers can explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Hanko. The nearby Ekenäs Archipelago offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, dotted with islands and islets. Visitors can embark on boat tours or rent kayaks to discover the unique flora and fauna of this pristine coastal area.

With its captivating beaches, rich history, and lively atmosphere, Hanko stands as a perfect destination for those seeking a coastal retreat and a taste of Finland's seaside charm.

Best Places to Visit in Hanko in Finland such as

• The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanko.
• Hanko Water Tower.
• Gunnarstrand.
• Tulliniemi Nature Path.
• Bellevue Beach.
• Hanko Front.
• Pike's Gut.
• Hanko Museum.
• The Path of Love.
• The Emigration Monument.

7- Lake Inari in Finland

Lake Inari, located in the far north of Finnish Lapland, is a majestic and captivating destination renowned for its pristine wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural significance. As Finland's third-largest lake and one of the largest in Europe, Lake Inari offers a truly immersive and authentic experience in the heart of Lapland.

Surrounded by untouched nature and vast forests, Lake Inari is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake itself spans over 1,000 square kilometers and is famous for its crystal-clear waters, which reflect the ever-changing colors of the sky and surrounding landscape. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect setting for various activities throughout the year.

During the summer months, Lake Inari is a paradise for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Exploring the lake's numerous islands, bays, and hidden coves by boat or canoe allows visitors to discover secluded spots and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching various fish species, including salmon, trout, and whitefish.

In winter, Lake Inari transforms into a frozen wonderland, creating opportunities for unique experiences. The lake's frozen surface becomes a vast playground for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Additionally, the northern lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, frequently grace the skies above Lake Inari during the winter months, offering mesmerizing displays of dancing colors and ethereal beauty.

The Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of the region, have a deep cultural connection to Lake Inari. The Sami have inhabited the area for centuries and still maintain their traditional way of life. Visitors can learn about Sami culture, traditions, and reindeer herding through guided tours, visits to Sami villages, and cultural events.

Inari, a small village situated on the shores of Lake Inari, serves as the gateway to the lake and its surrounding wilderness. The village is home to the Siida Sami Museum and Nature Centre, where visitors can gain insights into Sami culture, the local ecosystem, and the natural history of the region.

Lake Inari embodies the raw beauty and tranquility of Lapland's wilderness, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking a deep connection with nature and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Sami people.

8- Northern Lights in Ivalo in Finland

Ivalo, located in the Finnish Lapland, is a prime destination for witnessing the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Situated in the Arctic region, Ivalo offers optimal conditions for observing this natural wonder.

During the winter months, from September to April, the dark and clear nights in Ivalo provide an excellent backdrop for the Northern Lights to shine in their full glory. Away from the light pollution of cities, the pristine wilderness surrounding Ivalo offers unobstructed views of the night sky, making it one of the ideal European place to visit in Winter for aurora hunting.

To increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, there are several options available in Ivalo. One popular choice is to embark on a guided Northern Lights tour. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors to the best viewing spots, taking into account weather conditions and aurora forecasts. These experts provide insights into the science and folklore behind the Northern Lights, enhancing the overall experience.

Another way to experience the Northern Lights is by staying in accommodations specifically designed for aurora-watching. Some hotels and resorts in Ivalo offer cozy glass igloos or unique cabins with large windows or skylights, allowing guests to admire the dancing lights from the comfort and warmth of their rooms.

It's important to note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance cannot be guaranteed. They depend on various factors, including solar activity and weather conditions. However, Ivalo's location within the auroral oval, an area known for frequent aurora sightings, increases the chances of witnessing this breathtaking spectacle.

Aside from the Northern Lights, Ivalo offers other winter activities and experiences. Visitors can engage in snow-based adventures such as snowmobiling, husky sledding, and cross-country skiing. The snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes provide a stunning backdrop for these exhilarating activities.

Ivalo in Finland's Lapland is a remarkable destination for experiencing the enchanting Northern Lights. With its dark, clear skies and optimal location within the auroral oval, visitors have an excellent opportunity to witness the magical dance of colors in the night sky, creating lifelong memories in the Arctic wilderness.

Top Places to Visit in Ivalo in Finland Such as

• Wild Spirit Park.
• Extreme Huskies.
• Ivalo Trek Lapland.
• Northern Lights Riders.
• Ivalo Safaris.
• Arctica Lapland.
• Guesthouse Husky.

9- Oulanka National Park   is an Amazing Place to Visit in Finland

Oulanka National Park, located in northeastern Finland, is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Known for its rugged beauty and pristine wilderness, the park offers a plethora of natural wonders and thrilling experiences.

Covering an area of over 270 square kilometers, Oulanka National Park showcases diverse landscapes that captivate visitors throughout the year. The park is characterized by its lush forests, meandering rivers, deep gorges, and impressive waterfalls. The most famous of these waterfalls is the stunning Kiutaköngäs, where the Oulankajoki River cascades over rugged cliffs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The park is crisscrossed by numerous hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore its breathtaking scenery on foot. One of the most popular trails is the Karhunkierros Trail, which stretches for approximately 80 kilometers and takes hikers through a variety of landscapes, including forests, suspension bridges, and rapids. Along the way, hikers can spot wildlife such as reindeer, moose, and a variety of bird species.

During the winter months, Oulanka National Park transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting cross-country skiers and snowshoeing enthusiasts. The park's extensive trail network offers opportunities to explore the snowy landscapes and marvel at the frozen waterfalls and ice formations.

The park is also home to the famous Jyrävä suspension bridge, which spans the Oulankajoki River and provides stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Crossing the bridge is a thrilling experience, as it sways gently with each step, offering a unique perspective of the natural surroundings.

For thrill-seekers, Oulanka National Park offers the chance to experience exhilarating whitewater rafting on the rapids of the Oulankajoki River. Guided rafting tours take visitors on a thrilling adventure through the untamed waters, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the stunning scenery.

In addition to its natural beauty, Oulanka National Park is rich in cultural heritage. The park is home to traditional Finnish and Sami villages, where visitors can learn about the local way of life, traditions, and cultural practices.

Oulanka National Park offers a magnificent blend of unspoiled natural landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and cultural immersion. Whether you're seeking peaceful hikes through the forest, exciting whitewater rafting, or the chance to witness the beauty of Finnish Lapland, Oulanka National Park is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable experiences.

10- Oy Levi Ski Resort

Oy Levi Ski Resort, commonly known as Levi, is a premier winter sports destination located in Finnish Lapland. Renowned for its excellent ski slopes, pristine natural surroundings, and a vibrant après-ski scene, Levi offers an unforgettable experience for both avid skiers and leisure travelers.

The resort boasts an extensive network of ski slopes catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. With over 40 slopes and a variety of lifts, visitors can enjoy a wide range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The well-maintained slopes provide excellent conditions for carving down the mountainside and experiencing the thrill of winter sports.

Levi's ski season typically runs from November to May, ensuring a long and reliable period for winter activities. The resort also has excellent snowmaking facilities, ensuring optimal skiing conditions throughout the season.

Apart from downhill skiing, Levi offers various other winter activities that appeal to adventurers of all ages. Visitors can try their hand at cross-country skiing on the vast network of trails, embark on thrilling snowmobile safaris through the snowy wilderness, or experience the unique joy of husky sledding. Ice climbing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are also popular activities in the area.

For those seeking relaxation after an active day on the slopes, Levi provides a range of wellness and spa facilities. After a dip in the sauna, visitors can rejuvenate themselves with massages, hot tubs, and other treatments to unwind and recharge.

Levi's après-ski scene is lively and diverse, offering a vibrant atmosphere after a day of outdoor activities. The village center is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes where visitors can indulge in Finnish cuisine, sip on hot drinks, and enjoy the social atmosphere. Live music, entertainment, and occasional events add to the festive ambiance of the resort.

Levi is also known for hosting various winter events and competitions, including international skiing and snowboarding competitions. These events attract top athletes from around the world, adding an extra dose of excitement and energy to the resort.

Furthermore, the northern location of Levi makes it an ideal destination for witnessing the captivating Northern Lights. On clear nights, visitors have a chance to marvel at the dancing colors of the Aurora Borealis, creating a truly magical experience.

Oy Levi Ski Resort offers a remarkable winter getaway with its superb ski slopes, thrilling winter activities, vibrant après-ski scene, and the opportunity to witness the captivating Northern Lights. Whether you're an avid skier, a lover of winter adventures, or simply seeking a unique and unforgettable vacation, Levi provides an exceptional destination in the heart of Finnish Lapland.

Amazing Places to Visit in Levi Such as

• Manatee Springs State Park.
• Fanning Springs State Park.
• Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens.

11- Turku in Finland

Turku, located on the southwestern coast of Finland, is a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. As the oldest city in Finland, Turku is steeped in rich historical significance and offers a wide range of attractions and experiences.

The city's most iconic landmark is the Turku Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th century. This well-preserved castle allows visitors to step back in time and explore its fascinating history through guided tours. Inside, you'll find exhibitions showcasing the castle's past, including its role as a royal residence and a strategic stronghold.

Another historical gem in Turku is the Turku Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church that dominates the city's skyline. This magnificent cathedral, built in the 13th century, is renowned for its beautiful architecture, intricate details, and impressive organ. Climbing the cathedral tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Aurajoki River.

The banks of the Aurajoki River are a lively hub of activity in Turku. The riverside promenade, known as the "Aura Riverfron," is lined with charming cafés, restaurants, and famous shops in Europe . It's a popular spot for leisurely walks, boat tours, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. In summer, you can even hop on a riverboat cruise to explore the archipelago and its picturesque islands.

Turku's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with numerous museums and galleries that cater to a variety of interests. The Turku Art Museum showcases both Finnish and international contemporary art, while the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova Museum offers a fascinating blend of history and modern art. The Forum Marinum maritime center provides insights into Finland's seafaring traditions and exhibits historical ships.

For those interested in Finnish history and culture, the Turku Museum Quarter is a must-visit. This area houses several museums, including the Turku Castle, the Turku Biological Museum, the Pharmacy Museum, and Qwensel House, where you can explore the history of pharmacy and admire the well-preserved 18th-century interior.

Turku is also known for its vibrant culinary scene. The city offers a wide range of restaurants and eateries, from traditional Finnish cuisine to international flavors. The local food market, Kauppatori, is a great place to sample local produce, seafood, and street food.

Throughout the year, Turku hosts various festivals and events that showcase its cultural richness. The Turku Music Festival, the oldest and largest music festival in Finland, attracts renowned musicians from around the world. The Medieval Market, held in the summer, takes visitors back in time with medieval reenactments, crafts, and food.

Turku combines historical charm, cultural experiences, and a modern atmosphere, making it a captivating destination in Finland. Whether you're exploring its medieval heritage, enjoying the riverside ambiance, or immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, Turku offers a memorable experience for visitors of all interests.

Best Places to Visit in Turku Such as

• Turku Castle.
• Turku Cathedral
• Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova.
• Luostarinmäen Käsityöläismuseo
• Turun Kauppahalli.

12- Saariselka , an Amazing Place to Visit in Finland

Saariselkä, located in the far north of Finnish Lapland, is a picturesque village surrounded by breathtaking Arctic landscapes. It is a popular destination for those seeking a unique winter wonderland experience and a gateway to the pristine wilderness of Lapland.

Saariselkä is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and majestic fells (rounded hills). The village offers a wide range of winter activities that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the Arctic environment. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts can explore the extensive network of well-groomed trails that meander through the snowy landscapes, while downhill skiers can enjoy the slopes of the Saariselkä Ski Resort, which caters to all skill levels.

One of the highlights of a visit to Saariselkä is the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Due to its location above the Arctic Circle, Saariselkä provides excellent chances to see the Aurora Borealis during the winter months. Clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution enhance the visibility of this celestial phenomenon, offering a truly enchanting experience.

For a unique and unforgettable adventure, visitors can embark on a husky sledding excursion. Guided by a team of energetic and friendly huskies, you'll glide through the pristine wilderness, surrounded by snow-covered trees and the silence of the Arctic. This thrilling activity allows you to connect with nature and experience the power and enthusiasm of these incredible dogs.

Saariselkä is also a starting point for expeditions into the vast wilderness of Urho Kekkonen National Park. Here, you can embark on guided snowshoeing tours or snowmobile safaris, discovering the untouched landscapes and observing the local wildlife. Reindeer sleigh rides offer a more leisurely way to explore the surroundings while experiencing a traditional mode of transport.

After a day filled with adventures, Saariselkä provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The village offers a range of accommodations, from traditional log cabins to hotels with modern amenities. Many accommodations also feature saunas, allowing visitors to relax and unwind after their outdoor activities.

Saariselkä embraces the traditions and culture of the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about Sami culture, traditions, and their close connection with nature through cultural exhibitions, reindeer farms, and Sami-guided activities.

Saariselkä offers a magical winter experience in the heart of Lapland. With its stunning natural landscapes, thrilling Arctic adventures, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights, it is an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable and authentic winter getaway.

Best Places to Visit in Saariselka Such as

• Saariselkä Ski & Sports Resort Ltd.
• Kaunispää Triangulation Tower.

13- Aland Archipelago in Finland

The Åland Archipelago, also known as Åland Islands, is a unique and autonomous region of Finland situated in the Baltic Sea. Comprising over 6,700 islands, of which around 60 are inhabited, this picturesque archipelago offers a peaceful and idyllic escape with its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

The Åland Islands are characterized by their rugged coastlines, smooth rocky shores, and lush greenery. The islands are a paradise for nature lovers, providing opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring the outdoors. The archipelago's unspoiled beauty can be enjoyed through its numerous nature trails that meander through forests, along coastal paths, and past charming villages.

One of the highlights of visiting the Åland Islands is exploring its extensive network of cycling routes. The archipelago is well-known for its cycling-friendly infrastructure, including well-marked paths, bike rentals, and bicycle-friendly accommodations. Pedaling along the scenic coastal roads and winding through charming villages allows visitors to experience the islands at their own pace, taking in the panoramic views and immersing themselves in the peaceful atmosphere.

The Åland Islands also offer a rich cultural heritage. The region has a distinct Swedish-speaking population, and Swedish is the official language alongside Finnish. The islands have a fascinating history, and visitors can explore historical sites, museums, and exhibitions that showcase the archipelago's past. The Åland Maritime Museum, located in Mariehamn, the capital of Åland, provides insights into the islands' maritime history, shipbuilding traditions, and seafaring culture.

Mariehamn itself is a charming town with a maritime atmosphere. Its tree-lined streets, well-preserved wooden houses, and beautiful parks make it a pleasant place to explore on foot. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront promenade, enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, or visit the Pommern museum ship, a historic four-masted sailing ship that offers a glimpse into the region's seafaring history.

The Åland Islands are also known for their maritime activities. Sailing enthusiasts can charter boats or join organized sailing trips to explore the archipelago's waters and discover hidden coves and secluded islands. Fishing is another popular pastime, with opportunities to catch various fish species in the pristine Baltic Sea.

Culinary delights are not to be missed in the Åland Islands. Local cuisine showcases the flavors of the sea and the region's agricultural produce. Visitors can enjoy freshly caught fish, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional dishes that reflect the archipelago's cultural heritage.

The Åland Archipelago offers a serene and enchanting escape in the Baltic Sea. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and opportunities for outdoor activities, it provides a unique blend of tranquility and exploration. Whether you're cycling through scenic routes, exploring historical sites, or simply enjoying the archipelago's peaceful atmosphere, the Åland Islands promise an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Amazing Places to Visit in Aland Archipelago Such as

• Lasse Erikssons fartygsmuseum.
• Flowpark Åland.

14- Savonlinna in Finland

Savonlinna, located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, is a charming town known for its beautiful lakeside setting, historic castle, and world-renowned opera festival. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Savonlinna offers a delightful destination for visitors.

The centerpiece of Savonlinna is Olavinlinna Castle, an impressive medieval fortress perched on an island in Lake Saimaa. This iconic castle, built in the 15th century, is one of Finland's most visited historical sites. Visitors can explore its ancient halls, climb the towers for panoramic views of the lake and the town, and learn about the castle's intriguing history through guided tours and exhibitions.

Every summer, Savonlinna comes alive with the sound of music during the Savonlinna Opera Festival. Held in the stunning setting of Olavinlinna Castle, this internationally renowned festival attracts opera enthusiasts from around the world. Performances by top-notch opera singers and orchestras create a magical atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of opera while enjoying the enchanting surroundings.

Savonlinna's location amidst the pristine lakes of the Finnish Lakeland provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, offers a picturesque backdrop for boating, kayaking, and fishing excursions. Visitors can explore the archipelago, dotted with small islands, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the lake's crystal-clear waters.

For those seeking to connect with nature, the Linnansaari National Park is a must-visit. This national park, located near Savonlinna, is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, inhabited by rare seals and diverse bird species. Hiking trails allow visitors to explore the park's forests, wetlands, and rocky shores, while boat tours provide a unique opportunity to spot wildlife and admire the stunning landscapes.

Savonlinna's charming town center features colorful wooden houses, pedestrian streets, and inviting cafes and restaurants. Strolling along the waterfront promenade, visitors can enjoy the views of the lake and indulge in local delicacies, including fresh fish from Lake Saimaa. The town also hosts lively summer markets and events that showcase local crafts, food, and cultural traditions.

Savonlinna is also a gateway to the Finnish Lakeland region, offering easy access to other lakeside towns and attractions. Exploring the surrounding area allows visitors to discover more hidden gems, such as the idyllic town of Punkaharju with its stunning ridge landscapes or the ancient rock paintings of Astuvansalmi.

Savonlinna offers a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its magnificent castle and world-class opera festival to its picturesque lakes and outdoor activities, the town provides a captivating experience for visitors. Whether you're exploring the medieval fortress, immersing yourself in the world of opera, or enjoying the serenity of the Finnish Lakeland, Savonlinna promises a memorable and enchanting journey.

Best Places to Visit in Savonlinna Such as

• Linnansaari National Park.
• Kolovesi National Park.
• Olavinlinna fortress.
• Lusto - The Finnish Forest Museum.
• Savonlinna Museo.

15- Kemi in Finland

Kemi, situated on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia in northern Finland, is a vibrant city with a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and fascinating experiences. Known for its icebreaker cruises, stunning SnowCastle, and the famous Sampo Icebreaker, Kemi offers a range of attractions that captivate visitors.

One of the main highlights of Kemi is the SnowCastle, an extraordinary winter wonderland that is rebuilt every year using snow and ice from the nearby frozen sea. The SnowCastle features intricately carved ice sculptures, snow slides, and even an ice hotel where visitors can spend the night in a cozy, frozen setting. The castle offers a variety of activities, including snowboarding, ice skating, and guided tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of ice and snow.

Another must-see attraction in Kemi is the Sampo Icebreaker, a legendary vessel that provides an unforgettable Arctic adventure. Visitors can board the icebreaker and experience the power and thrill of breaking through thick ice, all while learning about the history and operation of the ship. The brave can even take a dip in the icy waters, wearing a survival suit for an invigorating Arctic swim.

Kemi is also known for its unique icebreaker cruises. These excursions take visitors on a journey through the icy waters of the Gulf of Bothnia, providing an opportunity to witness the stunning frozen landscapes, spot wildlife, and learn about the life and work in the Arctic sea. The cruises offer a truly immersive experience in the winter wonderland of Kemi.

For those interested in the local culture, the Kemi Gemstone Gallery is worth a visit. The gallery showcases a remarkable collection of gemstones, minerals, and fossils, providing insights into the geology and natural history of the region. Exhibitions highlight the beauty and diversity of gemstones found in Finland and around the world.

The city center of Kemi offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll along the Kemi River and enjoy the scenic views or explore the local boutiques and markets. The city also hosts various events throughout the year, such as music festivals, cultural celebrations, and winter-themed festivities, adding a vibrant and festive atmosphere to the city.

Kemi's location on the Gulf of Bothnia allows for a variety of outdoor activities. In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and experience on the best beaches for swimming in Europe . In the winter, the frozen sea provides opportunities for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The nearby Tornio River offers excellent conditions for salmon fishing, attracting anglers from around the world.

Kemi offers a unique blend of icy adventures, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you're exploring the SnowCastle, embarking on an icebreaker cruise, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Kemi promises a memorable and exciting experience. With its Arctic charm and a wide range of activities, the city is an enchanting destination that showcases the best of Finland's northern wonders.

In conclusion, all these 15 amazing places to visit in Finland have many Natural, historic, and tourist attractions you can take great pictures of. So when you visit Finland, we recommend that you go to these places and take pictures of them. Its medieval charm, delectable cuisine, and an emerging art scene beckon visitors to immerse themselves in its unique character. From exploring historic sites to indulging in local delicacies and celebrating the arts at cultural festivals , Filanda offers a diverse range of experiences. The town's natural wonders, from scenic hikes to serene boating, provide a tranquil escape into the surrounding countryside. Filanda promises an unforgettable Italian experience, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Italian life.

Check-Out This Video About Finland Made By Scenic Hunter Youtube Channel

• Top Picks Featured Listings

Discovering Finland

photo © Discovering Finland

Travel Guide to Finland

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.

Where to go

Helsinki Region

Southern finland and archipelago, finnish lapland, åland archipelago, lapland – the northernmost region of finland, unique things to do in helsinki, family vacation, blog articles to plan your visit in finland, exploring finland’s cultural delights: four must-visit destinations, exploring art museums in finland: top 10 picks for 2024, the island fortress of suomenlinna – the gem in helsinki’s archipelago, the best cafés in helsinki – guide to coffee culture in the capital, north lapland road trip, polar lights tours – authentic family owned farm in finnish lapland, original lapland – twice the magic, a weekend break cruising from helsinki to stockholm, discover tampere’s top cultural experiences, discover muonio and the purest air in the world, day trip to art town mänttä – perfect blend of nature & culture, day cruise from helsinki to tallinn with megastar, travel destinations in finland, kittilä – levi, lake tuusula, recommended tourism destinations & activities in finland.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on November 2, 2023

While not technically a part of Scandinavia, Finland boasts some of the same traits as its neighboring countries. Incredible scenery, unspoiled nature and a relatively liberal, modern political system are all positive attributes of Finland. In the winter the Northern Lights can be seen in the northernmost part of the country while in warmer months many Finns love to head to their summer cottages to enjoy some swimming, fishing, barbecuing but most of all the sauna.

When visiting Finland, it is natural to head to Helsinki , but your itinerary should also include other destinations beyond the capital. From small towns to natural wonders, this list highlights the best places to visit in Finland.

10. Levi [SEE MAP]

With so much unspoiled landscape, Finland is a nature lover’s dream destination. For outdoor enthusiasts, winter resort of Levi is undoubtedly a top pick for fun. Located in Finnish Lapland, Levi boasts miles of trails for skiing and snowboarding. There are also opportunities for more unusual activities such as reindeer safaris, ice fishing expeditions and relaxing in large outdoor saunas. The nightlife in Levi is a major draw for Finnish residents, so don’t leave until you have explored the bars, lounges and clubs in Central Levi.

9. Tampere [SEE MAP]

Although it is the third-largest city in Finland, Tampere is still not a huge urban area, and it feels more like a collection of neighborhoods than a major metropolis. To get an understanding of Tampere’s history and heritage, check out the Vapriikki, a museum complex housing the Natural History Museum and the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame, among others. Outdoor recreation like skiing and hockey are incredibly popular in Tampere, but the less athletically inclined can settle for a stroll through outdoor hubs like Duck Park or the Hatanpää Arboretum. The popular Särkänniemi Adventure Park on the edge of downtown features an aquarium, a planetarium, a children’s zoo, an art museum and an observation tower with great views of the forests and lakes.

8. Aland Archipelago [SEE MAP]

In the heart of the Baltic Sea is a collection of islands known as the Aland Archipelago. While they technically do belong to Finland, the islands run relatively autonomously. Unusually, this is one part of Finland where you are more likely to hear residents speaking Swedish than Finnish! Ferries shuttle visitors between the Aland Islands, offering you the chance to see attractions like the ship turned museum called the Pommern, the Aland Maritime Museum, the 14th century castle called Kastelholm and the miles of stunning hiking trails. Don’t miss the culinary specialty of the archipelago, a dessert pancake topped with stewed plums and whipped cream.

7. Kemi [SEE MAP]

Industrially, Kemi is a city in Finnish Lapland that is known best for its pulp mills. Travelers, however, know Kemi best as the location of the iconic snow castle. The castle is built yearly, and it can be three stories tall and serve as the venue for weddings and live musical performances. Guests can even stay overnight in the snow hotel, should they choose! Kemi also has a bustling nightlife scene, and the destination is where you can board the arctic icebreaker tour that winds through the arctic waters in search of breathtaking icebergs and incredible views.

6. Finnish Lakeland [SEE MAP]

As the name suggests, Finnish Lakeland is as area of Finland where there is an abundance of lakes. There are about 55,000 lakes here that are at least 200 meters (660 feet) wide! The region is spread across central and eastern Finland, and it is bound by the stunning Salpausselkä Ridges as well as the Russian border. The largest lake in the district is Lake Saimaa, where you can swim, boat or just hike the perimeter and soak in the views. While in Finnish Lakeland, you can also explore the university town of Jyväskylä or the medieval St. Olaf’s Castle.

5. Turku [SEE MAP]

Along the coast of Southern Finland is Turku, a city that served as the capital of Finland for much of the 19th century and is also believed to be the oldest in the nation. Although Helsinki has long since taken over as the capital, Turku is still a major destination in Finland, and it is home to countless historic attractions and cultural landmarks. Some of the top things to see in Turku include the 13th century Turku Castle, the twin museums called Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova and the neighborhood of Luostarinmäki, which is one of the few areas with architecture that survived the early 19th century fire in the city.

4. Porvoo [SEE MAP]

The second-oldest town in all of Finland is Porvoo, a destination known for its unique and picturesque wooden homes. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Porvoo, known to locals as Vanha Porvoo, you can see landmarks from the 13th century, although much of the wooden architecture was constructed at the end of the 19th century. Other great ways to pass the time in Porvoo include touring the 11th century Porvoo Cathedral, exploring local art and heritage at the Porvoo Museum and indulging in delicious local pastries and candies at the Brunberg shop, an iconic business in the city.

3. Savonlinna [SEE MAP]

A small city in the heart of Finnish Lakeland, Savonlinna is a charming historic destination worth a visit on your next trip to Finland. Located in the middle of Lake Saimma on a series of islands, the area’s biggest attraction is unquestionably Olavinlinna, or St. Olaf’s Castle, which was built in the 15th century. Since the castle’s location wasn’t militarily or politically important for centuries, it has withstood the test of time and remains largely intact and furnished. Also worth checking out in Savonlinna is the Orthodox Museum, the Savonlinna Provincial Museum and nearby Kerimäki, where the world’s biggest wooden church is located. In Savonlinna’s market square, be sure to dig into muikku, or a local herring dish, from one of the many vendors in the area.

2. Rovaniemi [SEE MAP]

If you want to experience the beauty of Lapland, then Rovaniemi is the ultimate gateway to it all. The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi was completely destroyed at the end of the Second World War. As a result, much of the architecture is mid-century and brutalist in design. While Rovaniemi is home to a number of wonderful attractions, a highlight is undoubtedly that it serves as the official Finnish home to Santa Claus. Visitors can tour Santa Claus Village, get stamps from the Santa Claus Post Office and even visit the Santa-themed underground amusement park. None-Christmas attractions in Rovaniemi include the Korundi House of Culture, the Pilke Science Center and the engineering feat known as the Jätkänkynttilä Bridge.

1. Helsinki [SEE MAP]

As the country’s capital, Helsinki is the most popular place to visit in Finland and a destination you won’t want to miss. If Helsinki looks a lot like St. Petersburg , it is because it was built to replicate the Russian city’s style in 1812. Today, some of the main attractions in Helsinki include the many churches, the three most important of which include the Lutheran Cathedral, the Church in the Rock and the Uspenski Cathedral. The stadium that served as the site of the 1952 Olympics is worth a visit, as is the art deco architecture of the Parliament House. While there are dozens of excellent museums and galleries in Helsinki, one of the best to see is the National Museum of Finland, which does a great job of tracing Finnish history over time.

Share this post:

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Europe

6 Most Beautiful Regions in Finland

14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland

27 Top Tourist Attractions in Helsinki

10 Most Beautiful National Parks Finland

10 Most Beautiful Lakes in Finland

6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe

17 Best Places to Visit in Northern Europe

15 Best Cities to Visit in Finland

10 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Reader interactions.

February 14, 2020 at 8:53 am

The Best country in Europe

June 10, 2017 at 2:39 am

No kvarken archipelago? Or Kilpisjärvi? Rauma Vaasaa and Pori? you need to up the number to at least 20 places to visit. Finland is awesome.

October 11, 2016 at 11:02 pm

Rovaniemi, definitely!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helsinki

Written by Jim O'Donnell Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is the country's largest city and filled with things to do for visitors. It sits on a granite peninsula on the north coast of the Gulf of Finland, facing the Baltic Sea.

After a great fire destroyed a third of the town in 1808, it was rebuilt, and the resulting neoclassical city center is laid out in wide handsome streets and boulevards with plentiful parks. The harbor, where many of the nearly 300 cruise ships that visit annually dock, is right in the heart of Helsinki, and a number of the top things to see and do are within walking distance.

Helsinki is a great city to explore on foot or on a bike, and has an excellent public transportation system that includes boats to the islands and trains to other destinations in Finland .

To learn more about this amazing Scandinavian travel destination, be sure to read through our list of the top places to visit and things to do in Helsinki.

See also: Where to Stay in Helsinki

1. Take a Boat to the Fortress of Sveaborg & the Suomenlinna Islands

2. shop in helsinki's market square, 3. temppeliaukio rock church, 4. experience traditional finnish culture at seurasaari open-air museum, 5. linnanmäki amusement park, 6. museum of contemporary art (kiasma), 7. helsinki railway station, 8. finlandia hall, 9. korkeasaari zoo, 10. the national museum of finland (kansallismuseo), 11. helsinki olympic stadium, 12. take a stroll in central park (keskuspuisto), 13. visit the sibelius monument and park, 14. uspenski cathedral, 15. relax on the beach in the hietaniemi area, 16. the gallen-kallela museum, 17. ainola, järvenpää, 18. tapiola, 19. day trip to hanko, where to stay in helsinki for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to helsinki, map of attractions & things to do in helsinki, helsinki, finland - climate chart.

The fortified islands of Suomenlinna are an integral part of Helsinki. While they may at first seem remote, they are in fact easy to reach by a 20-minute ferry ride, using the same ticket as for buses and trams.

The fortress of Sveaborg itself - which, literally translates as "Swedish Castle" - dominates the island. It was built in the mid 18th century to bar Russian access to the Baltic. During the Swedish-Russian war of 1808-09, it fell to the Russians, who thereafter enlarged and strengthened it. In 1918, it passed into Finnish hands and was given the Finnish name of Suomenlinna (Finnish Castle).

During the 1950s and 1960s, it was handed over by the military to the civilian authorities, and since then has been restored and converted for cultural and recreational use. It is now included in UNESCO's list of world heritage monuments and is a museum, a park, and an arts venue. The area is open most of the year but hours and ferry access vary, so be sure to visit the website for the latest information.

Address: Suomenlinna C 40, FI-00190 Suomenlinna, Helsinki

Official site: www.suomenlinna.fi/en/

The Market Square (Kauppatori) is the main planned and paved square in central Helsinki, and is one of the best-known outdoor markets in northern Europe. Bordering the Baltic Sea at the eastern end of the Esplanadi, it is full of stands selling Finnish foods, flowers, and tourist souvenirs. There are often even fishing boats lined up in the water selling seafood directly from the boat.

In the winter, market stalls are protected under tents, and there is a year-round market hall with more vendors. Visitors should watch their food carefully, however, as the seagulls at the market are large and brazen and will pluck food from unsuspecting diners.

Address: Eteläranta, 00170 Helsinki

North of Helsinki's Hietaniemi area, along Fredrikinkatu, is Helsinki's Rock Church. Designed by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in the late 1960s, the underground interior of the church was carved out of and built directly into the ancient solid rock of the Helsinki peninsula.

The inside of the church is bathed in a glorious natural light that enters through the glazed dome. It has a shallow circular dome (13 meters high) of copper sheeting and glass borne on concrete ribs. The church is also used as a concert hall due to its excellent acoustics created by the rough, unworked rock surfaces of the interior. Guided tours are available, and if visiting in summer, be sure to visit the on-site café for a unique dining experience.

Address: Lutherinkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: https://temppeliaukionkirkko.fi/en/index.html

East of Helsinki's city center is the island of Seurasaari, linked with the mainland by a footbridge. Here, you'll find the excellent Seurasaari Open-Air Museum with its many old houses, farmsteads, a manor house, a church from Kiruna that dates back to 1686, and other timber buildings that have been brought here from all parts of Finland.

This is the place to learn how Finns lived long ago, before the modern era. Nearby, at Meilahti 7, is an old timber house now occupied by the Friends of Finnish Handicrafts, with an exhibition of rye carpets and other traditional textiles. Visitors can watch the weavers at work, and the on-site shop sells examples of their handiwork.

Guided tours are available, and afterwards stop at the attraction's café and restaurant for a bite to eat. The island is also home to a popular public beach, so bring your swimsuit!

Address: Seurasaari, Helsinki

Official site: www.kansallismuseo.fi/en/seurasaarenulkomuseo

To the east of Olympic Stadium in Helsinki, beyond the railroad line, is the Linnanmäki amusement park. In operation since 1950, it's a favorite family outing for locals and tourists alike. The park offers a great range of rides for all ages, as well as live entertainment, games, and plenty of places to get meals and snacks.

There is a good selection of rides for the youngest visitors, including a kiddie train, little trucks on a track, a pirate ship, a little kids' carousel, a playhouse, and even a kiddie roller coaster. Rides for bigger kids include a fun house, spinning coffee cups, a haunted hotel, bumper cars, and a raft ride.

The park is also home to over a half dozen thrilling roller coasters, and several attractions that offer splendid views of Helsinki and the town of Linnanmäki, including the 53-meter observation tower, and a large Ferris wheel. Visitors can also enjoy the view from atop the 60-meter Rocket and the 75-meter free-fall tower — at least until the rides drop.

Address: Tivolikuja 1, 00510 Helsinki

Official site: www.linnanmaki.fi/en/

In a land renowned for its cutting-edge native architects, it's ironic that the building considered one of Finland's landmarks of modern architecture was designed by the American architect Steven Holl. The curvy exterior continues inside, creating exhibit spaces uniquely fitting for displaying contemporary works of art.

Along with its collections of post-1960 Finnish art, the museum has a theater dedicated to experimental drama, music, and dance. A café and shop are located on the premises. Visitors also have the option to take a public or private guided tour of the museum that includes information on the works, the artists, and the museum building.

Address: Mannerheiminaukio 2, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: http://kiasma.fi/en/

Helsinki's strikingly original Art Nouveau railway station (Helsingin päärautatieasema) was designed by Eliel Saarinen and is especially notable for American tourists because its 48-meter-high clock tower was the first of several designs that finally resulted in Saarinen's 1922 Chicago Tribune Tower — America's first skyscraper.

The exterior of the station is made of local granite, featuring an immense archway over the entrance, which is flanked by two giant statues on each side. The figures each hold globes that illuminate the façade at night, making a striking landmark. Inside, visitors will find towering arched halls and surprisingly delicate carved panels that decorate the walls.

Address: Kaivokatu 1, 00100 Helsinki

North of the Municipal Museum in Helsinki, on the shores of Töölö Bay (Töölönlahti), is the Finlandia Hall, a concert and convention hall designed by Alvar Aalto and built in 1971 with a white facade of Carrara marble. The marble is also used on the inside of the structure. Details appear in hardwoods and ceramics.

The main concert auditorium is a stunning site and is famous for its acoustics. Another standout feature is the wide Venetian staircase that leads from the ground floor to both the main auditorium and chamber music hall. The Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe was signed here in July 1975.

To the north of the hall is an excellent park (home to large chess boards and chess pieces), and beyond this again is the new Finnish National Opera House, inaugurated in November 1993 with a performance of the opera "Kullervo" by the Finnish composer Aulis Sallinen. Check the website for frequent updates on events, prices, and openings.

Address: Mannerheimintie 13e, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: www.finlandiatalo.fi/en

Founded in the 1880s, Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the oldest in the world , and holds a foremost place for its exceptional breeding programs for endangered species. They have been especially successful with breeding snow leopards and other big cats, such as the Amur and Siberian tiger.

As in any good zoo, the environments have been designed to be as close as possible to natural habitats, and nearly 1,000 plant species grow here to replicate the native environments of the 150 different animal species. The zoo is open all year-round, and visiting the tropical houses is one of the favorite things to do in Helsinki in the winter.

The zoo is on an island, and you can get here by ferry from May to the end of September. The rest of the year, you can get here by bus.

Address: Mustikkamaanpolku 12, 00270 Helsinki

Official site: https://www.korkeasaari.fi/helsinki-zoo/

The National Museum of Finland (Kansallismuseo) was built in 1912 in a National Romantic style, Finland's own take on the Art Nouveau movement that was popular in Europe at the time. This style is especially appropriate for a museum whose purpose is to collect and interpret material on the culture and ethnography of Finland.

Of note is the Finno-Ugrian collection with traditional costumes and everyday cultural objects. The prehistoric section is the largest permanent collection of archaeological materials in the country. Various displays also document the development of Finland from the Middle Ages through the Swedish and Russian empires and into a modern state.

The entrance hall is decorated with fabulous ceiling frescoes inspired by the Kalevala, the national myth of Finland. The frescoes were painted by Akseli Gallén-Kallela, perhaps Finland's best-known artist. Opposite the National Museum, in a park, is the Municipal Museum .

Address: Mannerheimintie 34, 00100 Helsinki

Official site: www.kansallismuseo.fi/en/

To the north of the Finlandia Hall, at the top of the Töölönlahti lake is the old Trade Fair Hall , and beyond this, the Olympic Stadium (Helsingin Olympiastadion). Built in 1938, it features a 72-meter-high tower from which there is a magnificent view of the city (it's served by an elevator).

Finland was awarded the Olympics prior to the advent of World War II and the Soviet invasion of the country. Cancelled during the fighting, the Olympics were finally held in Helsinki in 1952. Inside the stadium is the Finnish Sport Museum, and in front of the entrance is a statue of the great Finnish Olympic runner, Paavo Nurmi (1897-1973).

To the east is the Swimming Stadium, and to the north, the Ice Stadium. Beyond the lawn, in front of the Swimming Stadium lies the Municipal Park, a sea of blossoms in the summer and a perfect place for a picnic. The Swimming Stadium is open to visitors in the summer with excellent facilities.

Address: Paavo Nurmen tie 1, 00250 Helsinki

Official site: www.stadion.fi/helsinki-olympic-stadium

Helsinki's Central Park (Keskuspuisto) is a massive green space right in the middle of the city. Covering more than 10 square kilometers, the park begins at the Olympic Stadium near Töölönlahti Bay and stretches north into the community of Vantaa at the Paloheinä forest, where there is a wide cross-country skiing area.

The park is more wild woodland than manicured garden. It's loaded with bike and walking trails and other activity areas.

Address: 00630 Helsinki

Official site: https://citynature.eu/en/location/keskuspuisto/

Designed by Eila Hiltunen, the monument to the great Finnish composer was unveiled in 1967 and raised immediate controversy, and not a little criticism. The original Sibelius Monument (Sibelius-monumentti) was formed by a collection of large metal pipes that creates music as the breezes blow through them.

The more traditional statue of Sibelius was added later, in response to the complaints about the original concept. The monument is part of the beautiful Sibelius Park, one of many in the Finnish capital.

Address: Mechelininkatu 38, Helsinki

Official site: www.hamhelsinki.fi/en/sculpture/sibelius-monumentti-eila-hiltunen/

One of two imposing churches that dominate the skyline above Helsinki's harbor, Uspenski Cathedral (Uspenskin katedraali) is an eye-catcher. This stunning brick building is notable for its multiple towers and spires topped by 13 gold cupolas.

The interior of this Orthodox church is equally impressive, filled with altars, icons, and crosses, the intricate patterns on its arches set against block marble and a preponderance of gold embellishments.

Address: Kanavakatu 1, 00160 Helsinki

Official site: www.hos.fi/en/

Down the coast, south and east from the main railway station are the Rowing Stadium from the 1952 Olympics, kayak and canoe rentals, and the beautiful sandy beach of Hietaniemi. Next to this are several open fields frequently used as soccer parks, several restaurants, and a public sauna.

Beyond this lies the fascinating and park-like Hietaniemi cemetery with a cross on its highest point commemorating the fallen heroes of the republic. Here, too, Marshal Mannerheim (1867-1951) is buried.

Near the entrance are the graves of the politicians Risto Ryti, Väinö Tanner, T. M. Kivimäki, and E. Linkomies, who - as a condition of the 1944 armistice - were tried by a Finnish court for their political activities during the war and were given prison sentences, later commuted. A section of the cemetery is dedicated to the Jewish population of the city.

Akseli Gallen-Kallela is perhaps Finland's most important and certainly most impressive painter. The Gallen-Kallela house was built in 1911-13. Better known as Tarvaspää, the house was opened to the public as the Gallen-Kallela Museum in 1961. It contains a permanent exhibition of Gallen-Kallela's own paintings, graphics, and tools. An excellent café is located on site as well as a fine little store.

The Gallen-Kallela Museum is located on the beautiful shore of Laajalahti Bay in the eastern part of Helsinki, about ten kilometers from the center. It can be reached by car or by the walking and bike path from Munkkiniemi in Helsinki and Ruukinranta in Espoo.

Address: Gallen-Kallelan tie 27, 02600 Espoo

Official site: www.gallen-kallela.fi/en/

Ainola was the home of the world-famous composer Jean Sibelius and his wife Aino. Located on the shores of the stunning Lake Tuusula in Järvenpää, about ten kilometers north of Helsinki, it was constructed in 1904 in a classic timber style typical of the architect, Lars Sonck.

The house was built on the lake to give the genius peace to create, while still being close enough to access important events in the nation's capital. After Sibelius and his wife died, their family sold the house to the state. It was well preserved, and a museum foundation was established to maintain it.

Address:Ainolankatu, 04400 Järvenpää

Official site: www.ainola.fi/?lang=en

On the other side of the bay from Seurasaari, near Helsinki, is the garden city of Tapiola, now part of Espoo . For those fascinated by experimental urban planning ideas from the post-war era, this is a must. Built in the 1950s as a model example of modern town planning, the town now has the feel of a Star Trek set.

To the northeast, on the Otaniemi peninsula, is the University of Technology , with Dipoli, the unconventionally designed Students' Union. The new center for cultural activities was designed by architect, Arto Sipinen, and was opened in 1989. There are a number of specialty shops available as well as sports facilities.

A beautiful seaside town, 130 kilometers west of Helsinki, Hanko is a bilingual beach-blessed port town of about 10,000 people. Because of its location, Hanko has been contested for more than a thousand years. The Swedes and the Russians fought several battles here in the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1809, the Russians took over several Swedish forts.

The town itself wasn't officially founded until the 1870s and later served as a key transit point for Finns leaving for the United States during the starvation times. The Finns and the Russians fought a very bloody battle here in 1941. The architecture of the town speaks to its history with a mix of Swedish and Russian styles. It's full of excellent cafés and restaurants.

If you're visiting Helsinki for the first time and want to see some of the city's top sights, the best area to stay is in the city center, near Mannerheimintie (Mannerheim Street). Here, you'll find attractions such as Central Railway Station, the Parliament building, Finlandia Hall, and many shops and restaurants. Below are some highly rated hotels in and near the city center:

Luxury Hotels:

• In the heart of the city, a short walk from the harbor as well as fabulous shops and restaurants, Hotel Haven sports a sleek, elegant aesthetic and a fire-warmed lobby.
• Also within walking distance to the city's main sights, the pet-friendly and eco-friendly Hotel Indigo Helsinki - Boulevard, an IHG Hotel is a popular luxury option, with local artwork, a spa, and bikes for touring the city.
• Next door to Helsinki's Central Railway Station, the pet-friendly Holiday Inn Helsinki City Centre scores an A-plus for its convenient location a hop, skip, and a jump from Mannerheimintie and Finlandia Hall. The airport shuttle bus stops right near the hotel.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to major transport hubs in the city center, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki is at the top end of the mid-range hotels, with comfy rooms, a sauna, and fitness center.
• The boutique Hotel Rivoli Jardin sits in a quiet location close to all the downtown attractions and offers a choice of bright and airy guest rooms, studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens.
• Some rooms come with a sauna at Hotel Helka , which has a handy location in the city center within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotelli Finn , with clean, simple rooms, gets kudos for its central location steps away from the shopping district, while the Kongressikoti Hotel is behind the Helsinki Cathedral in the heart of the city and lies a short stroll from the train station.
• About three kilometers away from the city center but near bus and tram stops, the eco-friendly Ava Hotel offers standard rooms, studios, apartments, and a sauna.

A sightseeing tour is a great way to see all the city highlights without the hassle of driving and finding your way around. Instead, you can relax and look at the sights while you learn about the history and culture of the city from an interesting audio commentary. Below are some fun sightseeing tours and travel tips that will save you time and money:

See the Sights by Bus:

• A fun and flexible way to see all the city sights is the City Sightseeing Helsinki Hop On Hop Off Tour . Climb aboard the open-top double-decker bus, and come and go as you please at 19 different stops, including Rock Church and Helsinki Olympic Stadium, and hop on and off at your favorite attractions. The ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes audio commentary and free Wi-Fi.

See the Sights by Boat:

• If you have limited time and want to see the city from a different perspective, consider the Helsinki Sightseeing Canal Cruise . Sit back and relax on this 1.5-hour cruise as you glide past picturesque islands and icebreaker ships and see attractions like the World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress and Degerö Canal. The cruise includes an informative onboard commentary and free Wi-Fi.

Save Money:

• If you prefer to travel around the city independently to visit some of the top attractions, the Helsinki Card will save you time and money. Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card gives you free unlimited public transport in the city; admission to more than 50 attractions, including the Ateneum Art Museum and Suomenlinna Fortress; an audio city guide; and discounts for select tours, shops, and restaurants. You can also upgrade to the Helsinki Card Region, which includes public transport throughout the entire metropolitan area.

More on Finland

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in Finland

• Places To Visit

Finland Tourist Places

Here is the list of best places to visit in finland:.

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and has spectacular waterfront and bays. You can visit this city for sightseeing it's inlets, islands, music, art, street fares, local cuisine, coffee pubs, vineyards, history, culture and heritage. This is a harbour with an offbeat charm. This is the part of Europe with a different beat and history. This city is also known as the "Daughter of Baltic" and was founded in the 15th century. Since, 18th century it has been the capital of Finland. Today this is an international metropolitan city that is often visited by international tourists. Summer is the best time to visit this city.  Helsinki has an interesting history. It was founded by King Gustav Vasa. There are many old cathedrals, churches, historical sites, and also buildings with modern architecture and amenities that can can view in this city. You can get a taste of Nordic culture when you visit this city. Summers in Helsinki are pleasant. This is a city where you can find people who speak English as well. The locals are friendly. You can visit this city for its beer and drinks. You can get around the city in trams, trains, metros, buses, taxis, or take ferries to visit nearby places. There are parks, islands, cathedrals, churches, and other places to see and things to do in Helsinki.

Best of Iceland

Turku is a city in Finland that is located on the southwest coast on the banks of River Aura. It is one of the top places to visit in Finland because of its historical heritage and architectural marvels of the bygone era. The city dates back to almost the 13th century and is very much popular for its Turku Castle, which is a medieval fortress with a historical museum. Heading out to one of the most sought after sightseeing places in Finland, you will be able to pass through cobbled riverside streets and multi cuisine restaurants. You will also be able to come across some of the grand buildings and old great squares, which were the centre of trade in the bygone times. During your visit to Turku which is one of the best places to visit in Finland in winter, you must find time to marvel at some of the must see Finland attractions like Turun Linna, an age old castle, Forum Marinum, an excellent maritime museum, Luostarinmäen Käsityöläismuseo, a well known handicrafts museum, Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, home to almost 37,000 artefacts, and Taidekappeli, St Henry's Ecumenical Art Chapel.  You can also indulge in a wide range of activities in some of the tourist places Finland like Visit Turku Bike Rental, Turku Market Hall tour, Discover Gastronomic Bliss, Explore On Of The Oldest Buildings, Get Inspired By The Best Of Finnish Design, and relax in wonderful cafes. Located close to the Baltic Sea and sheltered by the islands, Turku has got a humid continental type climate. The city experiences warm summers with temperatures ranging up to 30 degree celsius. The warmest month of the year is july and the coldest month is february.

Best of Switzerland

Vaasa happens to be one of the best places to visit in Finland located on the western coast. It was formed in the year 1606 in the course of the reign of Charles IX of Sweden. The city has been named after the Royal House of Vasa. The city is also the regional capital of Ostrobothnia. It is one of historical cities that is known for its beautiful architectural designs and remarkable centre of art, history, education, and culture. Vassa offers some of the exotic tourist places Finland like The Kvarken World Heritage Archipelago, Meteoria Söderfjärden, Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art, Tikanoja Art Museum, Bergö Local Museum, Fänrik Ståls Centre, Harrström old fishing harbour, Harrström Windmill Hill, Harrström old fishing harbour, Meteoria Söderfjärden, Aava Kertun Kotitila - Farm, HopLop Vaasa, and The Church of Korsholm. Checking out the old ruins of Vaasa, visiting the Replot Bridge known for its majestic beauty. checking out the view at Hietasaari, visiting Strömsö to explore the beautiful summer Villa. Offering prayers at the Vaasa church, and enjoying a nice lunch at Seglis in summer are some of the top activities that you can indulge in. Vassa has a continental type climate with highest average temperature remaining around 23 degree celsius and the lowest average temperature remaining in the range of -17 degree celsius.

Best of Norway

Located in central Finland close to the point where the River Oulujoki meets the Bay of Bothnia. It is the fifth most popular city in Northern Finland and the fourth largest urban city in the country. Being a waterfront square, it is one of the famous tourist places in Finland where you will be able to find a bustling marketplace with zillions of food stalls. You can capture the surreal views of the water bodies and spend time in relaxation along it. Tourists love this place for its beautiful sunrise and sunset views. During your visit to Oulu, make sure that you find time to visit some of the best Finland attractions like Nallikari beach, Kemi Snow Castle, Kauppahalli shopping destination, Ainolan Puisto Park, and Tourism vessel Icebreaker Sampo. Some of the exciting activities to indulge in Oulu are wandering around the idyllic wooden town of pikisaari, getting inspired by finnish originality in oulu’s design shops, heading to the nallikari beach hidden in beautiful woodlands, embracing the arctic spirit with a stay at the lapland hotels,  starting a conversation over coffee and pulla like a true finn, putting your brain to the test at the tietomaa science centre, and hiring a car and discovering the best of finnish nature. Oulu has a subarctic continental climate. It is classified as Dfc as per the Koppen Geiger classification. The city experiences cold and snowy winters with short and warm summer seasons. The highest temperature recorded in the city is 33.3 degree celsius and the lowest temperature recorded in the city is -41.5 degree celsius.

Best of Athens

Hameenlinna

Hameenlinna is a municipality with about 68000 inhabitants located in the heart of Tavastia which is a historical province and Kanta Hame to the south of Finland. Hameenlinna is one of the oldest inland cities which has got loads of historical significance and has been one of the popular regional centres. Loaded with all sorts of natural beauty, it attracts zillions of tourists all through the year visiting Europe. Palanderin Talo, Aulanko, Hämeenlinnan Taidemuseo, Sibeliuksen syntymäkoti, and Museo Skogster are some of the best sightseeing places in Finland that you must think of visiting during your trip. The city offers you a magical tour of the art centres like HameenlinnanTaidemuseo. You can offer prayers at the Hameenlinnan Kirkko church which is very much popular for its majestic architectural design. Tourists can enjoy concert performances at Sibeliuksen syntymäkoti and stroll along the notable artwork exhibition at Hämeenlinnan Taidemuseo. Haneelinnan has got permanent snow all through the year. The temperature of the regions remains mostly below zero degree celsius. The average daytime temperature is usually -10 degree celsius and the night time temperature can fall below -30 degree celsius.

Best of Denmark

Established back in 1972 and nestled in the estuary of River Vantaa, the city of Vantaa is located in southern Finland. Finland’s fourth most populated city, Vantaa encompasses a total area of approximately 240.35 square kilometres. The city is surrounded by Helsinki on the south, Kerava on the north, Sipoo on the east, Nurmijärvi on the northwest, and Espoo on the southwest. Vanta showcases an appealing amalgamation of rural, suburban, and urban landscapes. Packed with a host of picturesque natural lakes, the city of Vantaa is naturally beautiful. The city of Vantaa features a myriad of important landmarks, spread across its length and breadth. The famous attractions you will find in this city include the Vantaa Museum, the Finnish Aviation Museum, The Church of St. Lawrence, and Heureka. On your tour to Vantaa city, you can spend time exploring the rich biodiversity of the Sipoonkorpi's National Park, taking a refreshing swim in the small lake of Kuusijärvi, and shopping your heart out at the Jumbo Shopping Centre. You can also enjoy an invigorating massage at the famous Flamingo Spa in the city. The climate of Vantaa is cold and temperate with a significant amount of rainfall occurring during the year. Vantaa experiences its most ideal weather between the months of June and September, which is also the best time to visit the city.

Best of Sweden

Tampere is one of the best places to visit in Finland that is located in between Näsijärvi Lake and Pyhäjärvi Lake with Tammerkoski rapids in between. It is one of the most populous cities in the Nordic region and a major economical and cultural hub for central Finland. The city is popular for its striking concrete architecture that will give you insights about the past era. You will find a number of exhibition halls and cathedrals dotted all through the city. A trip to Tampere would never ever be complete without stopping over Museum Vapriikki, Pyynikki Observation Tower, Tampere Cathedral, Kaleva Church, Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame, Sarkanniemi, Nasinneula Tower, Hatanpaa Arboretum, and Saunas. Tampere offers some of the best activities for the guests such as taking various food trails through Tammelantori Market and Kauppahalli Indoor Market, capture the glance of the amazing graffiti art at the abandoned matchstick factory in Pispala, and indulge in some of the local festivities like Tammerfest. Tamper is located at an elevation of about 97 meters above the sea level with a cold and temperate climatic condition. The city receives significant rainfall all through the year. As per the Koppen and Geiger classification, the city of Tampere has a Dfb climate. The average temperature of the city is recorded at 5.1 degree celsius all through the year.

Best of Finland

The city of Espoo lies west of Helsinki, in the Uusimaa region, in southern Finland. Espoo is perched on the northern side of the Gulf of Finland, encompassing the town of Kauniainen. Spread across an area of around 528.03 square kilometres, Espoo happens to be the country’s second populous city. Espoo city is packed with natural splendors, including lush forests, a breathtaking national park, serene lakes, and a 58 kilometers long shoreline. The rich fauna and flora of the city also add to its ever-charming natural beauty. Having a lot of exciting attractions makes it a most sought-after tourist destination. The prime places of interest that have gained much tourist attention include Nuuksio National Park, Serena Water Park, Turku Castle, Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, Forum Marinum Maritime Centre, and the Espoo Museum of Modern Art. While you are in Espoo, you can enjoy a myriad of fun activities. You can try cross country skiing, take a refreshing dip in the ice cold waters, feed the reindeer, enjoy a BBQ picnic at the Kaitalampi Lake, and seek blessings at the Espoo Cathedral. Espoo is blessed with a cold and temperate climate with a significant amount of rainfall occurring during the year. The most ideal time for visiting Espoo is between the months of June and September, when the temperature is mild and pleasant.

Best of Rome

Laid out back in 1848 by Tsar Nikolai I, Joensuu is located at the mouth of River Pielis, to the southeast of Kuopio, in southeastern Finland. With students making up around one third of the total population of the city, Joensuu is considered to be an important educational centre of Finland. The ever-charming beauty of Joensuu is well described by its breathtaking national parks and impressive museums. With a huge amount of snowfall happening at various parts of the city, Joensuu appears even more beautiful during the winters. The city of Joensuu brims with a host of interesting tourist attractions. The most recommended places to check out in Joensuu include the Joensuu Bunker Museum, the town hall, the Pielisjoki Castle, the Greek Orthodox church of Saint Nikolaos, the Museum of North Karelia, and the Carelicuma. On your tour to Joensuu, you can admire the impressive artworks at Taitokortteli, soak in the lush greens of Perhos-Botania, and witness ancient and modern art at Joensuun Taidemuseo. You can also seek blessings at the Evangelical-Lutheran Church and take a leisure stroll through the breathtaking Freedom Park.Joensuu is bestowed with a cold continental climate, which is marked by mild summers and cold, freezing winters. The city experiences pleasant and salubrious weather with mild temperatures during the month of July, which is also considered to be the perfect time to visit Joensuu.

Best of Helsinki

Rovaniemi happens to be the capital city of Lapland in Northern Finland. It is the administrative capital and the commercial centre of the Northernmost province of Finland. The city is situated about 6 km from the south of the Arctic Circle in the middle of the hills of Ounasvaara and Korkalovaara close to the confluence of River Kemijoki and its tributary Ounasjoki. Rovaniemi is home to some of the ideal places to visit in Finland where you head out on fishing and hiking tours. You can spot colorful waves of the aurora borealis and also enjoy the wilderness of Finish Lapland. Some of the top Finland attractions that you must visit during your trip to Rovaniemi are Santa Claus Express Santa Claus Village, Reindeer Sled Rides, Visit a Village Made of Ice,  Korundi House of Culture, and much more.  Spending some fun filled moments with the Finnish Reindeer, taking a guided tour to learn more about the culture, nature, and history at the Arktikum Science Museum are some of the best things that you can think of trying out in Rovaniemi, one of the best places to visit in Finland. Rovaniemi has got a subarctic type climate that is marked by a short and pleasant summer season with long, cold, and snowy winter seasons. The witners are pretty much extreme as the average sunshine is less than 6 minutes per day.

Best of Rovaniemi

Porvoo is a city in the Uusimaa Region, Finland. It is located on the southern coast of the country. It is about 35 km from the east of the city border of Helsinki and about 50 km from the city centre. The city is believed to be founded almost 800 years ago and it happens to be the second oldest city that gives you a chance to explore long history walking along its charming streets. Porvoo happens to be the one of the six medieval townships and one of the best places to visit in Finland in winter that has been mentioned in the texts that dates back to almost the 14th century. It is adorned with some of the scenic landscape and age old architectural marvels. Tourists heading over to this place will surely be impressed by the local art and culture. Vanha Porvoo, a vibrant port and market, Tuomiokirkko, historic stone-and-timber cathedral, Walter Runeberg Sculpture Collection, Taidetehdas, exhibition space, with rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, and Porvoon Nukke- ja Lelumuseo, a house of a thousand dolls are some the best places in Finland that you must marvel at during your visit. Taking an exploration tour of the old town of porvoo, visiting the ancient iso linnamäki fortress, renting a bike and exploring the nature, enjoying your day at haikko manor, and finding a boat and enjoying the archipelago around porvoo are some of the most sought after activities that you can be a part of. Porvoo is located at a height of 29 meters above the sea level and has a cold climate. The city receives significant rainfall all through the year. As per the Koppen Geiger climate classification, the climate of Porvoo is considered to be Dfb. The average annual temperature is recorded at 5.9 degree celsius and the average annual rainfall is recorded at 27 inch.

Best of Mykonos

The city of Jyväskylä is located north of Lake Päijänne, on the southwestern side of Kuopio, in south central Finland. Established back in 1837, Jyväskylä happens to be the largest city in Central Finland. Nicknamed as the "Athens of Finland", Jyväskylä is recognized as a major educational hub in the country. Much of the beauty of Jyväskylä can be accredited to the host of architectural marvels designed in the city by the renowned architect Alvar Aalto. Packed with around 328 picturesque lakes, the city also brims with unspoilt scenic natural beauty. The flamboyant cosmopolitan city of Jyväskylä is packed with a plethora of famous attractions. The city is known popularly for its host of intriguing museums including the Finnish Air Force Museum, the Natural History Museum of Central Finland, the Museum of Central Finland, The Alvar Aalto Museum, The Craft Museum of Finland, and the Jyvaskyla Art Museum. Other prime places of interest in Jyväskylä city include Kuokkalan Kartano, Tourujoen Luontopolku, and  Mäki-Matin Perhepuisto. While you are in Jyväskylä, you can spend time soaking in the breathtaking city views from Vesilinna, shopping for unique souvenirs at Toivola Old Courtyard, seeking blessings at the Jyväskylä Town Church, and relishing local delicacies at Harmooni. Jyväskylä experiences a continental climate with a considerable amount of rainfall occurring during the year.. The summers here are partly cloudy and comfortable, while the winters in the city are snowy, freezing, and long.

Other Attractions

Santa claus village.

Suomenlinna Fortress

Åland Archipelago

Lake Saimaa

Lemmenjoki National Park

Sibelius Monument

Top Experiences To Do in Sibelius Monument

Olavinlinna Castle

Museum Vapriikki

Snow Castle Of Kemi

Pyynikki Observation Tower

Urho Kekkonen National Park

Tampere Cathedral

Nuuksio National Park

Kaleva Church

Archipelago National Park

Finnish Hockey Hall Of Fame

Imatrankoski Rapids

Sarkanniemi

Nasinneula Tower

Koli National Park

Hatanpaa Arboretum

Viikinsaari Island

Seurasaari Open Air Museum

Lake Inari, nestled in the pristine wilderness of Finnish Lapland, captivates with its serene beauty and spiritual aura. Spanning over 1,000 square kilometers, it stands as Finland's third-largest lake, adorned with countless islands, peninsulas, and crystal-clear waters.

Inari Icepark

In the heart of the Finnish Lapland lies the enchanting Inari Icepark, a captivating winter wonderland that mesmerizes visitors with its icy landscapes and shimmering beauty. Nestled in the town of Inari, this unique attraction offers a breathtaking experience unlike any other. Visitors can marvel at intricately carved ice sculptures, glide across frozen lakes on skates, or embark on exhilarating husky sleigh rides through snow-covered forests. As the northern lights dance across the Arctic sky, the Inari Icepark becomes a magical playground where memories are made and the spirit of winter comes alive. It's an unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Lapland, Finland

Lapland, located in the northernmost regions of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and parts of Russia, is a vast, enchanting Arctic wilderness renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Home to the indigenous Sámi people, Lapland offers a magical winter experience with the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Visitors can enjoy activities such as husky sledding, reindeer safaris, and immerse themselves in the unique Arctic way of life.

Korouoma Canyon

Korouoma Canyon, nestled in Finland's rugged landscape, captivates with its breathtaking beauty.

Top Experiences To Do in Korouoma Canyon

Hame Castle

Saint Tryphon Pechenga Orthodox Church, Inari

The Saint Tryphon Pechenga Orthodox Church in Inari stands as a cultural and spiritual beacon in Finland's northernmost Lapland region. Nestled amidst the stunning Arctic landscape, this architectural gem exudes an aura of tranquility and reverence.

Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church

Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church, nestled in the serene wilderness near Inari, Finland, is a captivating testament to the region's cultural and natural heritage. Dating back to the 1760s, this quaint wooden church exudes rustic charm against the backdrop of pristine forests and glistening lakes. Its simple yet elegant architecture reflects traditional Scandinavian design, with a striking bell tower that rises above the surrounding landscape.

Amuri Museum Of Workers’ Housing

People Also Ask About Finland

What are the best places to visit in finland, what are the best beaches to visit in finland, what is the best time to visit finland, is finland safe, how many days are enough for finland.

Finland Travel Guides

Finland Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Finland

More things to do in finland, more on finland tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 15 Captivating Places To Visit In Finland To Unveil The Hidden Gems In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Finland is a pandora’s box of experiences! From the sea to the snow, for the young and for old alike, Finland is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. There are multiple places to visit in Finland , and it is tough to pick just a few. But your Finland travel will surely be fun-tastic and will leave you craving for more.

So, while you’re still in the mood to explore this serene land, make sure you know about a few places beforehand to know the place better.

15 Top Places To Visit In Finland

Some of the best Finland tourist attractions are listed here as follows. So, don’t miss out on any of these to get the best of this European land while you’re on your next vacay!

• Northern Lights
• Santa Claus Village
• Suomenlinna
• Sibelius Monument
• Nuuksio National Park
• Lake Saimaa

1. Northern Lights

Image Credit: Shutterstock

Ideally visible between September and March in the Finnish Lapland, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is a surreal treat for the eyes that sends onlookers into a trance. A mystical, out-of-the-world experience, these lights in the sky are one of the must visit places in Finland and the most breathtaking attractions. So, did this entice you enough to plan a trip to gorgeous Finland soon?

Location: Lapland in northern Finland

Timings: 10:00 pm to 3:00 am from Monday to Sunday.

Nearby attractions: Auto Race Tracks, Art Galleries, Ski & Snow Tours. 

Must Read: Finland In April 

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss Alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Santa Claus Village

Image Credit: Sqv7n by Pixabay

This lovely amusement park nestled in the snowy mountains of Lapland is Finland’s version of Disneyland. With ice restaurants, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, an igloo hotel, and safaris and excursions, you’re sure to find something that interests you here. Your Finland travel is incomplete without a visit to this visual treat. Are you ready to explore this village just yet?

Location: Arctic circle, 96930 Arctic circle, Rovaniemi. 

Timings: 11 :00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Sunday.

Nearby attractions: Wild Nordic Finland, Christmas House Safaris, Oulu. 

Mostly known for being a nature lover’s refuge, Aland is an old, quaint group of islands. Take a deep dive into old Finnish culture by visiting the maritime museum and the open-air museum here. One of the most peaceful Finland destinations, Aland will make sure you sit back and enjoy your holidays.

Location: Entrance to the gulf of Bothnia in the Baltic sea. 

Timings: Open throughout the day

Nearby attractions: Museum ship Pommern, Kastleholm Castle, Maxinge Centre. 

Suggested Read: Game Of Thrones Ice Hotel in Finland

4. Suomenlinna

Built as a sea fortress in the 18th century, this is now a UNESCO World Heritage site frequented by locals and tourists alike. Inside the fortress is a museum rich with Finland’s military history. This is one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Finland.

Location: 00190, Helsinki, Finland 

Timings: 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Sunday. 

Nearby attractions: Suomenlinna Museum, Submarine Vesikko, King’s Gate.

5. Helsinki

This beautiful city is the capital of Finland and one of the hottest Finland tourist spots. Modern buildings, lush landscapes, and a bustling city spirit lend this city a special air. Take a ferry ride or taste some traditional Finnish fare at Helsinki’s Market Square, which is one of the major Finland points of interest! Make sure you don’t miss out on one of the best places to visit Finland, Europe this year.

Nearby attractions: Helsinki cathedral, Senate Square, Esplanadi. 

Suggested Read: Castles In Finland

Image credit: aristidov for Wikimedia Commons

Unblemished snow and limitless ski slopes have landed this ski resort among the most popular Finland tourist places. Located 170 km north of the Arctic Circle, Levi offers consistent subzero temperatures, and a large range of open trails and open lifts. From a beginner to an expert, Levi has something for everyone to enjoy, and add this places to see in Finland to your bucket list.

Location: Hissitie 8, 99130 Kittilä, Finland

Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday to Sunday. 

Nearby attractions: Icekarting, Kid’s Land, Levi tourits office. 

7. Savonlinna

Image Credit: jackmac34 by pixabay

Home to the Olavinlinna Castle and a major spot for Finland sightseeing, Savonlinna is becoming an increasingly visited city. This place plays host to a ballet festival and an opera festival every now and then, and also has open-air theatres, museums, underground caves, and galleries. There is a lot to explore in Savonlinna.

Location: South Savonia province, Eastern Finland

Timings: Open daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m

Nearby attractions: Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna Provincial Museum, Sammakkoniemi Camping

Suggested Read: Things to do in Finland 

8. Sibelius Monument

Established to pay respect to Jean Sibelius, a nationally recognised music composer, this monument is built with more than 600 hollow steel pipes, coming together to form an organ. It is a magnificent sight, conveying volumes on Finnish culture and heritage. It is the perfect place for all history buffs and culture enthusiasts who wish to know more about the Finnish folks!

Location: Sibeliuksen Puisto, Mechelininkatu, 00250 Helsinki, Finland

Timings: Open throughout the day.

Nearby attractions: Hki Music Hall, Helsinki Zoo, Sibelius Park

Image Source: Wikimedia commons 

The major attraction is the Turku castle built in the 16-17th century, which is now home to the Turku Museum. This old town harbours a shopping center, a Church, a market, and even a Swedish theatre! Not to forget its quirky riverside restaurants which satisfies all senses. So, make sure you check out one of these best places to visit in Finland while you’re out and about in this land!

Nearby attractions: Turku castle, Turku cathedral, Forum Marnium. 

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Finland 

10. Nuuksio National Park

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Nuuksio National Park is rich with wildlife and is spread over a large area offering many camping and skiing opportunities. With long, uninterrupted trails for bicycling, hiking, and horse riding, this park is one of the best places to visit in Finland. It is surrounded by Finland’s natural bounty and offers stunning views of lush greenery – what more does one need?

Location: Nuuksiontie 84, 02820 Espoo, Finland

Timings: Open 24/7. 

Nearby attractions: Espo, Haltia- the Finnish nature Centre, Kirkkonummi

11. Tampere

Image Source: Shutterstock

Blending between the two gorgeous lakes, Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi, Tampere stands proud of its vibrant artwork and thrilling activities throughout the winter season for all kinds of tourists. Don’t miss out on the Amuri open-air park and Moomin Valley Museum which will let you sneak a peek into the nation’s history and various exhibitions. Are you ready to visit one of the most beautiful places to visit in Finland in summer right now?

Location: Southern Finland, 170 kilometers northwest of Helsinki

Timings: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, everyday.

Nearby attractions: Museokeskus Vapriikki, Nasinneula, Moomin museum. 

Suggested Read: Finland Lakes

 12. Porvoo

Image Credit: Kostiolavi by Pixabay

Known to be Finland’s few medieval settlements, this city has a history of more than 600 years and while many do not know that the town square’s clad in cobble are creations via the directions of the Swedish masters that once used to reside here. You can often catch glimpses of the tales of the Russian and Danish invaders hidden inside the Porvoo Cathedral.

Location: Jokikatu and Mannerheiminkatu, Porvoo 06100 Finland

Timings: Monday to Friday- 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday to Sunday- 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Nearby attractions: Helsinki Cathedral, Senate Square, Esplanadi. 

13. Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is an attractive place located in the Finnish Lapland of the Arctic Circle, full of vibrant culture and surrounded by breathtaking natural phenomena every day of the year. It is the modern city officially known as the home of Santa Claus and for gazing at the northern lights. Here you can enjoy grilled whitefish, local culinary delights, and seasoned mushrooms with wild herbs which have become the essential place to travel in Finland with your loved ones.

Location: Northeast of Tornio, on the Arctic Circle

Timings: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm every day.

Nearby attractions: Arktikum, Ounasvaara Ski oy, Santa park, etc.

Suggested Read: Cottages In Finland

14. Kauppatori

No trip is complete without exploring the famous shopping place in Helsinki. Wrap up your journey by visiting Kauppatori the biggest market place along with mouth-watering authentic local street food with berry drinks aside. A wide diaspora of stalls and stores, chirping seagulls, etc are the colorful places to travel in Finland that you can’t miss in Kauppatori.

Location: Eteläranta, 00170 Helsinki, Finland

Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Sunday

Nearby attractions: Sky Wheel, National Museum of Finland, Havis Amanda

15. Lake Saimaa

It is one of the largest lakes in Finland at approximately 4,279 square kilometers and is also considered the fourth largest freshwater lake in Europe. Most of the lake is dotted with islands and divides it into many further parts each having its own name. While visiting Lake Saimaa enjoy the delicious seafood eateries, popular fishing villages, and view of the northern lights that become the best places to visit in Finland. Head to this lake for a dreamy night view and have a great time on your vacation.

Location: Southeastern Finland

Nearby attractions: Puumala wooden church, Saimaa Geopark, Temolan Viinitila

Further Read: Festivals In Finland

Finland is one of those rare destinations that is still in its untouched, pristine forms unlike other mainstream travel spots. There is no dearth of places to visit in Finland, and it calls out to the adventurer, the tourist, the shopper, and the culture-lover in you. Book your trip to Europe right away if you wish to experience all that this heaven has to offer.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Finland

What should you not miss in finland.

Finland is famous for a lot of things. When in Finland, you can meet the real Santa Claus, see the northern lights, enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride. You could also explore the Finland lakes and wilderness in Finland.

What is the best time to travel to Finland?

The best time to travel to Finland can vary as Finland provides different experiences in different seasons. If you want to enjoy Christmas in Finland, heaps of snow, and winter sports, then December is the best time. Spring in the months of April-may is the best period to enjoy nature landscapes. Enjoy long and warm summer days in the months of June, July, and August.

What is the most popular city in Finland?

Helsinki is the most popular city in Finland since it is also the capital of Finland. You will find a range of amazing restaurants, bars, and cafes in the capital

What do they eat in Finland?

Finnish Food is different from your food palate but it is simple, comforting, and delicious. Try the rice pies, various kinds of cheese, cinnamon buns, blueberry pies, and other local dishes.

Is Finland an expensive country?

Yes, Finland can be expensive when you are planning a vacation. In fact, it is one of the most expensive places to travel in Europe followed by Denmark, Switzerland, Norway, Ireland. And Luxembourg.

Which is the oldest city in Finland?

Turku is the oldest city in Finland that was founded in the 13th century. It used to be the capital of Finland in the olden days.

What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Finland?

September-October, February-March are the best months to see the Northern Lights. You cannot predict the exact time for the Northern Lights to appear. So, you will have to wait outside for a while to get a glimpse of the most amazing phenomenon.

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In France Places To Visit In Denmark Places To Visit In Canada

Recent Posts

The Ultimate Guide To Your Alleppey To Munnar Road Trip

Mumbai To Delhi Road Trip For A Scenic Journey

The Enchanting Ramappa Temple: A Legacy Of Kakatiya Brilliance

Plan Mumbai To Bangalore Road Trip For The Best Experience

A Thrilling Mumbai To Rajasthan Road Trip: The Essential Guide

Hoysaleswara Temple: Unraveling the Splendor of Ancient Architecture

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Finland »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

More From Forbes

These are some of the best places to visit in finland.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Despite cold temperatures, Oulu is a popular Finland travel destination in the winter.

Why is Finland consistently ranked as the world's happiest country? Plan a trip to the Nordic nation and find out for yourself what makes Finns tick.

From the innovative design capital of Helsinki to peaceful Arctic wilderness, Finland is packed with diversity. The same is true for experiences, whether it’s staying in glass igloos waiting for the northern lights to appear or exploring historic towns.

Whether seeking adventure, connection with nature, or relaxation, Finland's varied regions promise new experiences and a taste of why Finns hold the title of the happiest people on earth .

Finland’s compact yet vibrant capital city is the obvious starting point for those seeking a city break in Finland . Visiting Helsinki offers a unique blend of Nordic design heritage and natural beauty.

Helsinki is a UNESCO Design City, acknowledging the city’s commitment to incorporating design into everyday life.

In addition to novel public spaces, the Finnish capital boasts design schools, innovative architecture, creative industries, and unique design shopping opportunities. Noteworthy sites include the wooden Oodi Library and the rock-hewn Temppeliaukio Church.

Helsinki’s Oodi Central Library is a wonderful example of Finland’s focus on design.

Apple iPhone 16 New Design And Performance Upgrades Revealed In Leak

Google s aggressive new pixel 8 discounts are not ending, samsung releases new feature boost to millions of galaxy phones.

Despite its urban setting, Helsinki's seaside location and nearby archipelago provide a maritime ambiance and outdoor activities, making it a standout destination in Finland.

Easy Day Trips From Helsinki

Short on time? Helsinki offers several day trip opportunities for those with limited time but who are still keen to explore Finland's rich landscapes and cultural heritage.

One of the oldest towns in Finland, Porvoo is known for its picturesque old town with cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses. A visit to the Porvoo Cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century, is a must for history enthusiasts.

Aside from its visual charm, the town's many boutiques and galleries offer unique Finnish designs and handmade goods, making Porvoo a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary culture.

Nuuksio National Park

Just a short drive or public transport ride from Finland's capital, Nuuksio provides a quick gateway into forested, lake-filled wilderness for those staying in or visiting Helsinki.

Hiking, bird watching, berry and mushroom picking, canoeing, and camping are just a few activities visitors can enjoy. The park offers a chance to encounter Finnish wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species, in their natural habitat.

Hämeenlinna

For a deeper dive into Finnish history, a day trip to Hämeenlinna offers the chance to explore the imposing 13th-century Häme Castle. Surrounded by beautiful nature, the town is also a base to travel to the Iittala Glass Factory Museum, providing insights into Finland’s design industries and cultural heritage.

The oldest city in Finland offers insights into the medieval era with attractions including Turku Castle and Turku Cathedral, the oldest buildings in Finland still in regular use.

The Aura River, central to the city's layout, is flanked by dining establishments and significant historical landmarks, enhancing the city's scenic appeal. Turku is also known for its dynamic arts scene, with an abundance of galleries, museums, and cultural events.

Old Rauma, a vibrant historic area and UNESCO World Heritage site , boasts over 600 colorful buildings housing boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, along with Finland's narrowest street.

The old wooden city center of Rauma is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction ... [+] in Finland.

This unique living museum is inhabited by about 800 people. Visitors can admire exquisite murals in the 15th-century Church of the Holy Cross.

A trip to Rauma also offers the chance to explore another UNESCO site. The nearby Bronze Age Burial Site of Sammallahdenmäki is the largest complete Bronze Age burial site in the Nordic region.

Finland’s Lake Region

Finland's southeastern region, near the Russian border, is rich with lakes and islands. While the exact number of lakes is unknown due to the challenge of defining a lake, there are over 55,000 bodies of water wider than 650 feet. Regardless of definitions, that’s a lot of water.

The area is sprinkled with summer cottages, many owned by Finns for seasonal retreats, with some available for rent. Start planning your itinerary with the enjoyable lakeside views along Route 62 from Mikkeli to Ruokolahti.

This region is ideal for experiencing the quintessentially Finnish tradition of enjoying a sauna followed by a refreshing dip in an ice-cold lake.

Nestled between two lakes, Tampere has evolved from its industrial origins into a vibrant hub of education, culture, and technology, boasting major universities and research institutes.

The city attracts international visitors with events at Tampere Hall congress center, which also houses the Moomin Museum, celebrating Tove Jansson's timeless characters .

Vapriikki Museum Center, located along the riverside, offers insights into Tampere's industrial history and diverse exhibitions, from natural history to gaming.

Arctic Finland

The northern region of Finland is a year-round destination, offering endless daylight in summer for hiking and wildlife watching, and stunning northern lights alongside Arctic landscapes in fall, winter, and spring.

Arctic Finland is a prime spot for viewing the northern lights, despite the cold. For comfort, consider staying in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Even if the northern lights elude you, a winter visit remains a memorable one with activities like husky sled rides, exploring Sami culture, and sauna.

Known as the gateway to Arctic Finland, Oulu is a city known for its technology sector and vibrant cultural scene, featuring music festivals, museums, and art galleries.

Oulu's position by the Baltic Sea makes it ideal for bird watching. Winter in Oulu brings plummeting temperatures but great opportunities for ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Known as the ‘official hometown of Santa Claus’, Rovaniemi lies directly on the Arctic Circle. This city is a magical destination for families, offering visits to Santa Claus Village all year round.

Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland, is a year-round tourist attraction.

Beyond this festive appeal, Rovaniemi serves as a hub for Arctic adventures, including snowmobile safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, and aurora hunting.

Cultural highlights include the Arktikum museum, which provides comprehensive insights into Arctic nature and the history of Finnish Lapland.

Ivalo and Inari

In the far north, Ivalo and Inari offer insights into indigenous Sami culture, with attractions like the Siida Museum and opportunities to explore the Arctic wilderness.

Inari is home to the Sami Parliament and serves as a cultural center for the Sami people, offering visitors an authentic look at the traditions and way of life of the Nordic region’s indigenous people.

Åland Islands

This Swedish-speaking archipelago at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia offers peaceful natural beauty, maritime attractions, and outdoor activities.

The Åland Islands are known as a summer vacation spot, popular with both Swedes and Finns for the sandy beaches, historic sites, scenic cycle paths, and quaint villages.

Mariehamn, the charming capital, serves as the heart of Åland's 30,000 residents, offering a glimpse into the islands' maritime heritage with attractions like the Åland Maritime Museum and the Pommern sailing ship.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions