Finland, the land of a thousand lakes, midnight sun, and Northern Lights, offers travelers an enchanting mix of pristine wilderness, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences. From the design-forward streets of Helsinki to the magical winter wonderlands of Lapland, Finland captivates visitors with its natural beauty and distinctive Nordic charm. This comprehensive guide explores the 60 best places to visit in Finland, helping you plan an unforgettable journey through this remarkable Scandinavian gem.
Urban Gems: Finland’s Vibrant Cities
Finland’s cities blend modern design with historical charm, offering visitors a perfect mix of cultural attractions, innovative cuisine, and unique urban experiences. Here are the most captivating urban destinations to explore:
Helsinki’s iconic Senate Square with the white Helsinki Cathedral
1. Helsinki
Finland’s capital is a design lover’s paradise with its blend of neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and modern architecture. Located in southern Finland, Helsinki charms visitors with the stunning Helsinki Cathedral, the unique Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church), vibrant Market Square, and the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
2. Turku
Finland’s oldest city and former capital offers medieval charm along the Aura River. In southwestern Finland, Turku boasts the impressive 13th-century Turku Castle, beautiful Turku Cathedral, and a vibrant food scene that showcases the best of Finnish cuisine.
3. Tampere
Set between two lakes, this former industrial center has transformed into a cultural hub. Located in the Pirkanmaa region, Tampere features the Särkänniemi Amusement Park, the world’s only Moomin Museum, and the unique Spy Museum, all while maintaining its industrial heritage.
4. Porvoo
One of Finland’s most picturesque small towns with its iconic red shore houses. Just 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, Porvoo’s medieval old town features charming cobblestone streets, colorful wooden buildings, and the 15th-century Porvoo Cathedral.
5. Savonlinna
Home to the impressive Olavinlinna Castle and famous opera festival. Located in the Saimaa lake region, Savonlinna combines medieval history with stunning natural surroundings, making it particularly magical during the summer months.
Arctic Adventures in Lapland: Best Places to Visit in Finland’s North
Finnish Lapland offers magical experiences throughout the year, from winter’s Northern Lights and snow activities to summer’s midnight sun. These destinations showcase the best of Finland’s Arctic region:
The magical Northern Lights illuminate the Lapland sky
6. Rovaniemi
The official hometown of Santa Claus and gateway to Finnish Lapland. Located right on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi features the famous Santa Claus Village, Arktikum Museum, and serves as a perfect base for Northern Lights hunting and winter activities.
7. Levi
Finland’s largest ski resort offers year-round activities and Northern Lights viewing. In western Lapland, Levi combines excellent skiing facilities with luxury accommodations, including glass igloos perfect for aurora watching.
8. Saariselkä
A remote resort village ideal for wilderness experiences and aurora viewing. Located in northern Lapland, Saariselkä offers access to the vast Urho Kekkonen National Park, husky safaris, and some of Finland’s best Northern Lights viewing opportunities.
9. Kakslauttanen
Famous for its iconic glass igloos and Arctic resort experience. Near Urho Kekkonen National Park, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers the magical experience of sleeping under the Northern Lights in glass accommodations surrounded by pristine wilderness.
10. Inari
The center of Sámi culture in Finland with stunning Arctic landscapes. In northernmost Lapland, Inari houses the Siida Sámi Museum and provides authentic insights into indigenous culture while offering pristine wilderness experiences.
Natural Wonders: Finland’s Breathtaking National Parks
Finland’s 40 national parks showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, from pristine forests and crystal-clear lakes to rugged fells and coastal areas. These protected areas offer exceptional hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor experiences:
The breathtaking river canyon in Oulanka National Park
11. Oulanka National Park
Dramatic river canyons, rapids, and the famous Karhunkierros Trail. Located in northeastern Finland near the Russian border, Oulanka features the stunning Kiutaköngäs waterfall, suspension bridges, and diverse wildlife including brown bears and reindeer.
12. Nuuksio National Park
Pristine wilderness just 30 minutes from Helsinki. In southern Finland, Nuuksio offers serene lakes, rocky outcrops, and marked trails perfect for day hikes, with the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia providing excellent educational exhibits.
13. Koli National Park
Finland’s most iconic national park with breathtaking lake views. In eastern Finland, Koli’s famous viewpoints from Ukko-Koli hill have inspired Finnish artists for generations, offering spectacular vistas over Lake Pielinen.
14. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
Finland’s third-largest national park with pristine fells and forests. In western Lapland, this park offers Finland’s cleanest air, exceptional hiking trails, and winter activities including cross-country skiing on well-maintained tracks.
15. Repovesi National Park
Rugged forests, clear lakes, and dramatic cliffs perfect for hiking. In southeastern Finland, Repovesi features the famous Lapinsalmi suspension bridge, excellent canoeing opportunities, and well-marked trails through diverse landscapes.
Hidden Lakeside Retreats: Exploring Finnish Lakeland
Finland’s Lakeland region contains thousands of lakes, creating a magical landscape of blue water, green forests, and charming lakeside communities. These destinations showcase the best of Finland’s famous lake district:
The stunning mosaic of lakes and islands in Finland’s Lakeland region
16. Lake Saimaa
Finland’s largest lake with a labyrinth of islands and home to rare Saimaa ringed seals. In southeastern Finland, Lake Saimaa offers countless opportunities for boating, fishing, and cottage stays, with charming towns like Savonlinna and Mikkeli nearby.
17. Mikkeli
A charming lakeside city with unique attractions including wine farms. In the South Savo region, Mikkeli serves as a gateway to Lake Saimaa, offering the Ollinmäki Wine Farm and luxurious Anttolanhovi Art & Design Villas.
18. Lake Päijänne
Finland’s second-largest lake with the scenic Pulkkilanharju ridge. In southern Finland, Lake Päijänne features the Päijänne National Park, excellent fishing opportunities, and the unique narrow Pulkkilanharju ridge road offering spectacular views.
19. Lake Pielinen
A vast, scenic lake with views of Finland’s most famous national park. In eastern Finland, Lake Pielinen borders Koli National Park, offering boat tours, fishing, and sandy beaches perfect for summer swimming.
20. Lake Keitele
A pristine lake perfect for authentic Finnish cottage experiences. In central Finland, Lake Keitele offers the quintessential Finnish summer cottage experience with fishing, berry picking, and traditional wood-fired saunas.
Coastal Treasures: Finland’s Baltic Gems
Finland’s coastline and archipelagos offer unique maritime experiences, historic towns, and stunning island landscapes. These coastal destinations showcase Finland’s rich maritime heritage:
The picturesque islands of the Turku Archipelago
21. Turku Archipelago
A stunning network of over 20,000 islands perfect for island hopping. Off Finland’s southwestern coast, the archipelago offers the scenic Archipelago Trail, charming island communities, and excellent cycling and kayaking opportunities.
22. Hanko
Finland’s southernmost city with beautiful beaches and historic villas. On the southern tip of Finland, Hanko features sandy beaches, colorful wooden villas from the Russian era, and a vibrant summer atmosphere.
23. Rauma
A UNESCO World Heritage site with the largest wooden old town in the Nordics. On Finland’s west coast, Rauma’s Old Rauma district features colorful wooden buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and traditional lace-making heritage.
24. Åland Islands
An autonomous archipelago with unique culture and maritime history. Between Finland and Sweden, the Åland Islands offer cycling routes, maritime museums, and a distinct culture with Swedish influences.
25. Kvarken Archipelago
A UNESCO World Heritage site where the land is rising from the sea. On Finland’s west coast, this unique geological area rises about 1 cm per year, with the fishing village of Svedjehamn offering excellent hiking trails.
Winter Wonderlands: Magical Snow Destinations
Finland transforms into a magical winter wonderland from November through April, offering unique experiences that can only be enjoyed in the snow. These destinations showcase the best of Finland’s winter magic:
The magical Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi during winter
26. Santa Claus Village
The official home of Santa Claus where Christmas magic lives year-round. In Rovaniemi, visitors can meet Santa himself, cross the Arctic Circle line, send postcards from Santa’s Post Office, and enjoy reindeer and husky rides.
27. Kemi Snow Castle
The world’s largest snow fort rebuilt every winter with ice sculptures and snow rooms. On Finland’s northern coast, this impressive structure features a snow hotel, ice restaurant, and chapel, all intricately carved from snow and ice.
28. Ruka
A premier ski resort with excellent slopes and winter activities. Near Kuusamo in northeastern Finland, Ruka offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and winter activities including reindeer safaris and ice fishing.
29. Ylläs
Finland’s largest ski resort area surrounded by pristine Lapland wilderness. In western Lapland, Ylläs features Finland’s longest ski slopes, extensive cross-country skiing trails, and the unique Ylläs-Saaga spa with panoramic views.
30. Luosto
A small, authentic winter resort with the unique Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. In central Lapland, Luosto combines winter activities with the chance to dig your own amethyst and stay in cozy log cabins surrounded by snow-laden forests.
Unique Experiences: Finland’s Most Distinctive Attractions
Finland offers many one-of-a-kind experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. These unique attractions showcase Finland’s creativity, innovation, and distinctive culture:
A traditional Finnish smoke sauna experience by the lake
31. Finnish Sauna Experience
The ultimate Finnish cultural tradition found throughout the country. From Helsinki’s public saunas like Löyly to traditional smoke saunas in the countryside, experiencing authentic Finnish sauna culture is a must for any visitor.
32. Midnight Sun
Experience 24 hours of daylight during summer in northern Finland. Throughout Lapland, the midnight sun creates a magical atmosphere where you can hike, fish, or kayak around the clock without darkness from June to early July.
33. Ice Swimming
The exhilarating Finnish tradition of dipping in icy water after sauna. Throughout Finland in winter, experience the invigorating practice of ice swimming, often combined with sauna visits for a truly authentic Finnish wellness experience.
34. Glass Igloo Stays
Sleep under the Northern Lights in a heated glass dome. Throughout Lapland, various resorts offer the magical experience of watching the aurora from the comfort of your bed in a glass-roofed accommodation.
35. Icebreaker Cruise
Take a cruise on an icebreaker ship in the frozen Gulf of Bothnia. From Kemi in northern Finland, the Sampo icebreaker offers winter cruises where visitors can even float in the frozen sea wearing special survival suits.
Cultural Highlights: Finland’s Heritage and Arts
Finland boasts a rich cultural heritage, from indigenous Sámi traditions to contemporary design. These destinations offer insights into Finland’s diverse cultural landscape:
Helsinki’s stunning Oodi Library showcases Finnish design excellence
36. Design District Helsinki
The heart of Finnish design with boutiques, galleries, and museums. In central Helsinki, this area encompasses 25 streets filled with design shops, the Design Museum, and iconic Finnish brands like Marimekko and Iittala.
37. Siida Sámi Museum
Learn about Finland’s indigenous Sámi culture and Arctic nature. In Inari, Lapland, this excellent museum offers insights into Sámi traditions, reindeer herding, and the unique culture of Finland’s northernmost region.
38. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Historic wooden buildings from across Finland on a beautiful island. In Helsinki, this museum features traditional buildings from different regions, with costumed guides demonstrating traditional crafts and customs during summer.
39. Moominworld
A theme park dedicated to Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin characters. In Naantali, near Turku, this family-friendly attraction brings the famous Finnish storybook characters to life on the beautiful island of Kailo.
40. Olavinlinna Castle
A medieval castle hosting the famous Savonlinna Opera Festival. In Savonlinna, this 15th-century castle is one of Finland’s most impressive historical sites and transforms into a world-class opera venue each summer.
Summer Delights: Finland’s Seasonal Treasures
Finland comes alive during the summer months with festivals, outdoor activities, and the chance to experience the famous midnight sun. These destinations are particularly magical during the warmer months:
The quintessential Finnish summer cottage experience by the lake
46. Finnish Summer Cottage Experience
Rent a traditional lakeside cottage for the authentic Finnish summer. Throughout Finland’s lake districts, experience the beloved Finnish tradition of summer cottage life with swimming, sauna, fishing, and berry picking.
47. Naantali
A charming summer town with wooden old town and Moomin World. Near Turku in southwestern Finland, Naantali comes alive in summer with its beautiful harbor, presidential summer residence Kultaranta, and family attractions.
48. Savonlinna Opera Festival
World-class opera performances in a medieval castle setting. Held annually in July at Olavinlinna Castle, this internationally renowned festival combines stunning performances with a unique historical venue.
49. Pori Jazz Festival
One of Europe’s oldest jazz festivals in a charming coastal city. Held in July in Pori on Finland’s west coast, this major music event attracts international stars and thousands of visitors to its atmospheric riverside venue.
50. Seurasaari Midsummer Celebration
Traditional Finnish midsummer festivities with bonfires and folk dancing. On Seurasaari island in Helsinki, experience authentic midsummer traditions including maypoles, traditional costumes, and ceremonial bonfires.
Family-Friendly Finland: Top Destinations for All Ages
Finland offers many excellent destinations for families with children, combining educational experiences with fun activities. These family-friendly attractions ensure enjoyment for visitors of all ages:
Polar bears at Ranua Wildlife Park in Finnish Lapland
51. Särkänniemi Amusement Park
Thrilling rides, aquarium, and planetarium in one location. In Tampere, this comprehensive amusement park features the Näsinneula observation tower, offering panoramic views alongside traditional rides and attractions.
52. Ranua Wildlife Park
The northernmost zoo in the world specializing in Arctic animals. Near Rovaniemi in Lapland, Ranua houses polar bears, wolverines, lynx, and other northern species in spacious, naturalistic habitats.
53. Angry Birds Activity Park
Indoor and outdoor play areas based on the famous Finnish mobile game. With locations in several Finnish cities including Rovaniemi, these parks offer year-round fun regardless of weather conditions.
54. Tykkimäki Amusement Park
A charming amusement park with adjacent aquapark. In Kouvola, southeastern Finland, Tykkimäki combines traditional rides with water attractions and beautiful surroundings.
55. Heureka Science Centre
Interactive science exhibits perfect for curious minds of all ages. In Vantaa, near Helsinki, Heureka offers hands-on science experiences, a planetarium, and outdoor science park with engaging exhibits.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Finland
To make the most of your Finnish adventure, consider these practical tips that will help you navigate the country like a local:
Embracing Finnish sauna culture is essential for any visitor
Find the Best Deals for Your Finnish Adventure
Secure great rates on flights, accommodations, and rental cars throughout Finland. From Helsinki city hotels to remote glass igloos in Lapland, find the perfect options for your journey.
Best Time to Visit
Finland offers distinct experiences in each season. Summer (June-August) brings midnight sun and festivals, autumn (September-October) showcases colorful foliage, winter (November-March) offers Northern Lights and snow activities, while spring (April-May) features nature awakening and fewer tourists.
Getting Around
Finland has excellent public transportation in cities, with trains connecting major destinations. For exploring remote areas, renting a car is recommended. In Lapland, organized tours provide access to wilderness experiences. The country’s well-maintained roads make road trips a pleasure, especially through the scenic Lakeland region.
Finnish Sauna Etiquette
Saunas are an integral part of Finnish culture. Always shower before entering, bring a small towel to sit on, and understand that Finns typically enjoy sauna nude (though tourist facilities often allow swimwear). Don’t rush—sauna is meant to be a relaxing experience, often followed by a refreshing dip in a lake or sea.
Everyman’s Rights
Finland’s “Everyman’s Rights” allow everyone to roam freely in nature, pick berries and mushrooms, and even camp temporarily, regardless of land ownership (with reasonable limitations). This freedom makes Finland perfect for nature lovers but comes with the responsibility to respect the environment and private property.
Weather Preparedness
Finnish weather can change rapidly. Even in summer, bring layers and rain protection. For winter visits, proper thermal clothing is essential—temperatures in Lapland can drop below -30°C (-22°F). Many winter activity providers offer thermal suit rentals for tourists.
Where to Stay: Unique Accommodation in Finland
Finland offers some of the world’s most unique places to stay, from glass igloos under the Northern Lights to traditional lakeside cottages. Consider these distinctive accommodation options:
Glass Igloos
Experience the magic of sleeping under the Northern Lights in a heated glass dome. Available throughout Lapland at resorts like Kakslauttanen, Northern Lights Ranch, and Arctic SnowHotel, these unique accommodations offer unforgettable aurora viewing from your bed.
Summer Cottages
Embrace the Finnish lifestyle in a traditional lakeside cottage with private sauna. Available throughout the Lakeland region, these “mökki” offer authentic experiences with fishing, swimming, and berry picking right at your doorstep.
Ice Hotels
Spend a night in a room made entirely of snow and ice. Available in winter at locations like the SnowCastle in Kemi and Arctic SnowHotel in Rovaniemi, these ephemeral accommodations are rebuilt each winter with new designs.
Taste of Finland: Must-Try Finnish Foods
Finnish cuisine celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with influences from both east and west. Don’t miss these authentic Finnish culinary experiences:
Traditional Finnish delicacies featuring fresh local ingredients
Savory Specialties
- Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pastries) – Rye crust pastries filled with rice porridge
- Lohikeitto – Creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill
- Poronkäristys – Sautéed reindeer served with lingonberries and mashed potatoes
- Ruisleipä – Traditional Finnish rye bread, a staple of Finnish cuisine
- Kalakukko – Fish baked inside a loaf of bread, specialty from the Savonia region
Sweet Treats
- Korvapuusti – Cinnamon rolls spiced with cardamom
- Mustikkapiirakka – Blueberry pie made with wild Finnish berries
- Leipäjuusto – “Bread cheese” often served with cloudberry jam
- Runeberg torte – Almond-flavored pastry topped with raspberry jam
- Salmiakki – Salty licorice, Finland’s distinctive candy
Plan Your Finnish Adventure
Finland offers an extraordinary blend of pristine nature, vibrant culture, and unique experiences that change dramatically with the seasons. Whether you’re seeking the magic of Lapland’s Northern Lights, the tranquility of a lakeside cottage, or the design innovation of Helsinki, Finland rewards travelers with authentic experiences and unforgettable memories.
As you plan your journey to the land of a thousand lakes, ensure you stay connected with a reliable eSIM and secure the best deals on accommodations to make your Finnish adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From the midnight sun to the dancing Northern Lights, Finland awaits with its natural wonders and warm hospitality.
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