Despite the cold temperatures, Oulu is a well-liked winter destination in Finland.
Why is Finland consistently ranked because the happiest country on this planet? Plan a visit to the Nordic country and discover for yourself what makes the Finns special.
From the modern design capital of Helsinki to the peaceful Arctic wilderness, Finland is filled with diversity. The same goes for experiences, whether staying in glass igloos while waiting for the Northern Lights to look or exploring historic cities.
Whether you are in search of adventure, closeness to nature or leisure, Finland’s diverse regions promise latest experiences and a taste of why Finns hold the title of “World Champions”. happiest people on earth.
Helsinki
Finland’s compact yet energetic capital is the plain start line for anyone trying to take a city trip to Finland. A visit to Helsinki offers a novel mix of Nordic design heritage and natural beauty.
Helsinki is a UNESCO City of Design, recognizing the town’s commitment to integrating design into on a regular basis life.
In addition to novel public spaces, the Finnish capital offers design schools, modern architecture, creative industries and unique design shopping. Notable sights include the picket Oodi Library and the rock-cut Temppeliaukio Church.
The Oodi Central Library in Helsinki is an excellent example of Finland’s deal with design.
Despite its urban setting, Helsinki’s seaside location and nearby archipelago offer a maritime ambience and outdoor activities, making Helsinki a standout destination in Finland.
Easy day trips from Helsinki
Do you’ve got little time? Helsinki offers several day trip options for those short on time but still concerned about exploring Finland’s wealthy landscapes and cultural heritage.
Porvoo
Porvoo is one among the oldest cities in Finland and is thought for its picturesque old town with cobblestone streets and colourful picket houses. For history buffs, a visit to the Fifteenth-century Porvoo Cathedral is a must.
Aside from its visual charm, the town’s many boutiques and galleries offer unique Finnish designs and handcrafted goods, making Porvoo an ideal mixture of historical charm and contemporary culture.
Nuuksio National Park
Located just a brief drive or public transport ride from the Finnish capital, Nuuksio offers those staying in or visiting Helsinki a fast entry into the forested, lake-filled wilderness.
Hiking, bird watching, berry and mushroom picking, canoeing and camping are only a number of the activities visitors can enjoy. The park offers the chance to watch Finnish wildlife, including moose, deer and various species of birds, of their natural habitat.
Hämeenlinna
For a deeper insight into Finnish history, a day trip to Hämeenlinna offers the chance to explore the imposing Thirteenth-century Häme Castle. Surrounded by beautiful nature, the town can also be a start line for trips to the Iittala Glass Factory Museum, which offers insights into the design industry and Finland’s cultural heritage.
Turku
Finland’s oldest city offers insights into the Middle Ages with attractions corresponding to Turku Castle and Turku Cathedral, the oldest buildings in Finland which are still in regular use.
The Aura River, which is central to the cityscape, is flanked by dining establishments and significant historical landmarks, adding to the town’s scenic appeal. Turku can also be known for its dynamic art scene with an abundance of galleries, museums and cultural events.
Old Rauma
Old Rauma, a energetic historic district and UNESCO World Heritage Sitehas greater than 600 colourful buildings with boutiques, cafes and restaurants, in addition to Finland’s narrowest street.
The old picket town center of Rauma is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a well-liked tourist attraction … [+]
This unique living museum is inhabited by around 800 people. Visitors can admire exquisite murals within the Fifteenth-century Church of the Holy Cross.
A visit to Rauma also offers the chance to explore one other UNESCO site. The nearby Bronze Age burial site of Sammallahdenmäki is the most important complete Bronze Age burial site within the Nordic region.
Finland’s lake district
Finland’s southeastern region near the Russian border is wealthy in lakes and islands. While the precise variety of lakes is unknown as a result of the challenge of defining a lake, there are over 55,000 bodies of water wider than 650 feet. Regardless of definition, that is a whole lot of water.
The area is dotted with summer houses, a lot of that are owned by Finns and function seasonal retreats, a few of that are also available to rent. Start planning your itinerary with the magnificent lake views along Route 62 from Mikkeli to Ruokolahti.
This region is good for experiencing the standard Finnish tradition of having fun with a sauna session after which taking a refreshing swim in an ice-cold lake.
Tampere
Located between two lakes, Tampere has grown from its industrial origins right into a vibrant center of education, culture and technology, boasting major universities and research institutes.
The city attracts international visitors with events on the Tampere Hall convention center, which can also be home to the Moomin Museum, celebrating Tove Jansson’s timeless characters.
Located on the riverbank, the Vapriikki Museum Center offers insights into Tampere’s industrial history and quite a lot of exhibitions, from natural history to gambling.
Arctic Finland
A year-round destination, Finland’s northern region offers countless daylight for mountaineering and wildlife viewing in summer, and stunning northern lights alongside arctic landscapes in autumn, winter and spring.
Despite the cold, Arctic Finland is a main place to see the Northern Lights. If you would like comfort, consider staying in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. Even if you happen to miss the Northern Lights, a winter visit stays an unforgettable experience with activities like husky sleigh rides, exploring Sámi culture and a sauna.
Oulu
Considered the gateway to Arctic Finland, Oulu is a city known for its tech sector and vibrant cultural scene with music festivals, museums and art galleries.
Oulu’s location on the Baltic Sea makes it ideal for bird watching. Winter in Oulu brings dropping temperatures, but additionally great opportunities for ice skating and cross-country skiing.
Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is often called the “official hometown of Santa Claus” and is situated right on the Arctic Circle. This city is a magical destination for families to go to Santa Claus Village all yr round.
Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland is a tourist attraction all yr round.
Beyond this festive appeal, Rovaniemi serves as a hub for Arctic adventures, including snowmobile safaris, reindeer sleigh rides and northern lights hunts.
One of the cultural highlights is the Arktikum Museum, which offers comprehensive insights into the 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 corresponding to 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 insight into the traditions and lifestyle of the indigenous people of the Nordic region.
Åland Islands
This Swedish-speaking archipelago at the doorway to the Gulf of Bothnia offers peaceful natural beauty, maritime attractions and outdoor activities.
Known as a summer holiday destination, the Åland Islands are popular with each Swedes and Finns for his or her sandy beaches, historic sites, scenic cycle paths and quaint villages.
Mariehamn, the charming capital, is the center of Åland’s 30,000 residents and offers a glimpse into the islands’ maritime heritage with attractions corresponding to the Åland Maritime Museum and the Pommern sailing ship.
