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Imagine yourself surrounded by staggeringly beautiful landscapes and the dancing northern lights in the frosty wilds of Lapland. Finland is a country that casts a spell over you with its unique blend of natural wonders and cultural attractions.
As you explore this captivating destination, you’ll experience the magic of winter with its snow-covered forests and the serenity of summer with its midnight sun. Whether you’re paddling through the serene lakes or immersing yourself in the local culture, Finland has something for every kind of traveler.
With its unique experiences and breathtaking places, Finland is a must-visit country that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Get ready to discover the top experiences that make Finland a standout destination in the world.
Discovering Finland’s Natural Wonders
Discover the untouched beauty of Finland’s vast wilderness, where the air is crisp, and the landscapes are breathtaking. Finland is renowned for its natural beauty, with thousands of lakes, dense forests, and vast wilderness areas waiting to be explored.
Explore Finnish Lakeland by Canoe or Kayak
Finnish Lakeland, located in the eastern part of the country, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With an estimated 55,000 lakes, the region offers a unique paddling experience through its serene waters and picturesque landscapes. You can rent a canoe or join a guided tour to explore the world’s longest lake coastline in Lake Saimaa.
Hike Through Urho Kekkonen National Park
Located in Lapland, Urho Kekkonen National Park is Finland’s largest national park, covering an impressive 2,550 square kilometers. The park offers exceptional hiking opportunities in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter. Explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including old-growth forests, fells, and fast-flowing brooks, and visit notable landmarks like the 486m Korvatunturi fell.
Both Finnish Lakeland and Urho Kekkonen National Park showcase the pristine natural environments that make Finland a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re paddling through the lakes or hiking through the forests, you’ll experience the unspoiled beauty of this Nordic region.
Experience the Magic of Lapland
Experience the enchantment of Lapland, where the magic of Christmas is alive throughout the year. Lapland, Finland’s northernmost region, transforms into a magical winter wonderland that serves as the official home of Santa Claus and offers enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages.
Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Wish it could be Christmas every day? You’re going to love Rovaniemi, where you can cuddle up to the big, jolly, red-robed, chimney-diving dude 365 days a year. Feel five years old again as you whisper your wish list into Santa’s ear in his grotto at the Santa Claus Village, right atop the Arctic Circle.
Go on a Reindeer Sleigh Ride
A reindeer sleigh ride through snow-covered landscapes is a quintessential Lapland experience, offering not just transportation but a connection to ancient traditions that have shaped life in the Arctic for centuries. You can ride in a reindeer sleigh through the snow and enjoy the serene winter landscapes.
Lapland’s winter landscapes offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a reindeer-driven sleigh ride or a visit to the Santa Claus Village. With its unique blend of natural beauty and festive cheer, Lapland is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Chase the Northern Lights
Witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the Finnish sky is an experience you’ll never forget. Finland is a great place to visit if you want to see the Northern Lights, and winter is the best time to spot them.
Best Locations to See Aurora Borealis
Finnish Lapland is one of the world’s premier destinations for Northern Lights viewing, positioned in the “aurora zone” between 65 and 72 degrees north where aurora frequency and intensity reach their peak. The best locations include Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, Levi, and Utsjoki.
Northern Lights Tours and Photography Tips
Northern Lights tours offer expert guidance to the best viewing spots, with options ranging from evening snowmobile excursions to specialized photography tours. For successful Northern Lights photography, bring a tripod, use manual settings with a slow shutter speed, and pack extra batteries as they drain quickly in cold temperatures.
Embrace Finnish Sauna Culture
The Finnish sauna experience is a journey into the heart of Finnish culture and tradition. With over 3 million saunas for a population of just 5.5 million people, it’s clear that saunas are deeply ingrained in Finnish identity.
Traditional Finnish Sauna Experience
A traditional Finnish sauna involves heating the room to approximately 80°C (176°F), creating löyly (steam vapor) by throwing water on hot stones, and possibly using a vasta (birch whisk) to stimulate circulation. This ritual is not just about relaxation; it’s a cornerstone of Finnish culture.
Ice Swimming and Sauna Combinations
Ice swimming, or dipping in freezing water between sauna sessions, has gained popularity for its health benefits, including improved circulation and reduced stress. Many public saunas in Helsinki, like the waterfront Löyly sauna complex, offer this invigorating experience during winter months.
Finnish sauna culture is about embracing a lifestyle that values community, relaxation, and physical wellbeing. Whether you’re in a bustling city like Helsinki or a serene lakeside setting, the sauna is a place to unwind and connect with others.
Finland: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Winter Adventures
As winter descends upon Finland, the landscape transforms into a snowy paradise, beckoning adventure-seekers to explore its frozen wonders. The country’s winter season offers a unique blend of thrilling activities and cozy accommodations, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the magic of snow-covered landscapes.
Dog Sledding Through Snowy Landscapes
Experience the thrill of dog sledding through Finland’s snow-covered forests and across frozen lakes. With a team of energetic huskies pulling your sled, you’ll traverse the silent white wilderness while learning to mush your own team.
Snowmobiling in the Arctic Wilderness
Embark on a snowmobiling expedition deep into the Arctic wilderness, where few travelers venture. This high-speed adventure takes you across vast snowy expanses, offering the chance to spot wildlife like reindeer and Arctic foxes.
Stay in an Ice Hotel or Glass Igloo
One of Finland’s most unique winter experiences is staying in an ice hotel, where rooms, furniture, and even art installations are crafted entirely from snow and ice. For a cozier alternative, glass igloos offer heated, transparent domes with unobstructed views of the night sky and potential northern lights displays.
Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline rush of dog sledding and snowmobiling or the serene beauty of staying in an ice hotel or glass igloo, Finland’s winter adventures promise unforgettable experiences amidst its breathtaking snowy landscapes.
Explore Helsinki’s Cultural Highlights
As you step into Helsinki, you’re immediately immersed in a world of cultural richness and architectural marvels. The city’s cultural landscape is a fascinating blend of historical and contemporary attractions that showcase Finland’s design heritage and architectural innovation.
Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square
The Helsinki Cathedral is a striking example of neoclassical architecture, dominating Senate Square with its impressive green dome and massive granite staircase. As the city’s most recognizable landmark, it symbolizes Finland’s Lutheran heritage. You can take a guided tour to explore the cathedral’s history and significance.
Design District Shopping
The Helsinki Design District is a hub for Finland’s world-renowned design culture, featuring 25 streets across several neighborhoods. Here, you can discover showrooms, boutiques, and galleries showcasing classic Finnish brands like Marimekko and Iittala, as well as emerging designers.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is spread across six connected islands. You can take a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki’s Market Square to explore this historical maritime fortress built in the 1700s, featuring museums, a church, tunnels, and 18th-century buildings.
Helsinki’s compact size makes it ideal for exploration on foot or via its efficient public transportation system, allowing you to experience the city’s blend of Nordic minimalism, Russian influences, and contemporary Finnish innovation in a single day.
Discover Finnish Food and Drink
The Finnish way of life is closely tied to its food and drink, offering a distinct culinary experience. Finnish cuisine is characterized by its emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients from the forests, lakes, and sea. This unique blend of traditional and modern elements makes Finnish food a fascinating aspect of the country’s culture.
Traditional Finnish Cuisine to Try
Finnish cuisine reflects the country’s geography and history, featuring dishes that have sustained people through long, cold winters. You should try karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies filled with rice porridge), kalakukko (fish baked inside a loaf of bread), poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer meat with lingonberries), and leipäjuusto (squeaky cheese often served with cloudberry jam). These traditional foods are a staple of Finnish life.
Coffee Culture and Cinnamon Buns
Coffee culture runs deep in Finnish life, with Finland consistently ranking as the world’s top coffee consumer per capita. Finnish people love their coffee, preferring light-roasted filter coffee over espresso-based drinks. You can experience this unique coffee culture at local coffee chains like Robert’s Coffee and independent cafés such as Kaffa Roastery, where a coffee break, known as “kahvitauko,” is often accompanied by a cinnamon bun (korvapuusti) or other pastry.
Unique Accommodations in Finland
Finland’s unique accommodations provide an opportunity to connect with nature and experience the country’s natural beauty in a more intimate way. You can choose from a variety of options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Wilderness Cabins and Lakeside Cottages
Wilderness cabins and lakeside cottages, known as “mökki” in Finnish, offer an authentic experience of Finnish life. You can enjoy private saunas, boat access, and forage for berries and mushrooms in the surrounding forests. Many of these cabins are situated near water features, allowing you to fully experience Finland’s landscape in both summer and winter.
Treehouse Hotels and Eco Resorts
For a more luxurious and eco-friendly experience, consider staying at one of Finland’s treehouse hotels or eco resorts. These accommodations are nestled in pine forests and offer a chance to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts. You can relax in a heated room with a forest view, or opt for an off-grid cabin powered by renewable energy.
Finland’s unique accommodations cater to various interests and preferences, ensuring that your stay is memorable and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an adventurous getaway, Finland has something to offer.
Learn About Sami Culture
Discover the fascinating world of Sami culture, deeply rooted in the Arctic environment. The Sami people have lived in harmony with nature for centuries, developing a unique way of life that is both captivating and inspiring.
Visit a Reindeer Farm
Visiting a reindeer farm offers a glimpse into the central role these animals play in Sami culture. You can hear stories, ride in a sleigh, and learn how the Sami are keeping their culture alive. Reindeer herding is not just an occupation but a way of life that has shaped Sami traditions, language, and identity.
Experience Traditional Sami Crafts and Cuisine
You can experience traditional Sami crafts, known as duodji, which include intricate leatherwork, wood carving, and textile arts. Sami cuisine centers around ingredients available in the Arctic environment, with specialties like bidos (reindeer stew) and souvas (smoked reindeer meat). This offers you a taste of traditional northern fare and insight into the Sami people’s deep connection to their environment.
The town of Inari serves as a cultural center for the Finnish Sami, home to the Siida Museum, which provides comprehensive exhibits on Sami history, traditions, and contemporary life. By visiting Inari and engaging with Sami culture, you can gain a deeper understanding of their nature-bound, season-driven way of life.
Day Trips and Excursions
There’s a world beyond Helsinki waiting to be explored. You can take a day trip to discover the charm of nearby towns, the beauty of nature, or even visit another country.
Visit the Charming Town of Porvoo
Porvoo, Finland’s second-oldest town, is just 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, making it a perfect day trip destination. You can stroll along its picturesque red shore houses, explore medieval cobblestone streets, and enjoy traditional Finnish pastries at charming cafés.
Take a Ferry to Tallinn, Estonia
A popular international day trip option is taking the ferry to Tallinn, Estonia. High-speed vessels make the journey across the Gulf of Finland in just two hours, allowing you to explore another Baltic capital and return to Helsinki the same day.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, there are plenty of options for day trips from Helsinki. You can visit nearby national parks like Nuuksio or Sipoonkorpi, or take a short ferry ride to the Suomenlinna islands, which offer historical fortifications and scenic coastal views.
Conclusion: Planning Your Finnish Adventure
Finland’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re planning to visit in winter or summer, this Nordic nation offers a unique experience.
When planning your trip, consider that winter (November to March) is ideal for snow activities and aurora hunting, while summer (June to August) brings warm days perfect for exploring Helsinki and enjoying the country’s extensive archipelago.
To make the most of your travel, budget at least 5-7 days to experience both the capital region and part of Lapland. Finland’s excellent transportation network makes travel straightforward, with domestic flights and an efficient train system linking major cities.
As you engage with the people and culture, you’ll find that Finns are genuinely warm, especially over shared experiences like saunas or coffee. With its pristine landscapes, innovative design, and rich history, Finland offers a refreshing way to experience a part of the world where nature and modern life exist in harmony.
The above is subject to change.
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