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

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

Visit Finland

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

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

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

Meet the Expert

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

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

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

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

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

Åland Islands

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

Eduardo Cabanas/Getty Images

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

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

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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

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“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.

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

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

Suomenlinna

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

Finnish Lakeland

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

Ranua Wildlife Park

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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. 

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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. 

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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

10 of the best places to visit in Finland: from Helsinki cool to the frozen wilds of Lapland

Jun 1, 2022 • 10 min read

From energetic cities to chilled lakeside retreats, here are the best places to visit in Finland © nblx / Shutterstock

Finland moves to its own Nordic beat. This land of geographical and climatic extremes is a land of possibility. A land on the final frontiers of the imagination and a source endless fascination: whether you are flying across the frozen tundra behind a team of yapping huskies in Lapland, with the northern lights swooping overhead, paddling from island to forested island in the Lakeland, with rare Saimaa ringed seals bobbing alongside your kayak, or leaping headfirst into Helsinki’s offbeat design scene.   

There’s so much nature, so much culture, so much otherness here that you could keep returning forever more and still be surprised. Here’s our rundown of the 10 best places to visit in Finland.

Helsinki is effortlessly cool

Dipping its toes into the brilliant blue Baltic, Helsinki has a generous pinch of everything that makes Finland so special: cutting-edge design, elegant art nouveau villas, galleries brimming with contemporary art, market halls singing of seasonal bounty, and restaurants riffing modern on foraged flavors. There are few capital cities that swing so effortlessly between the urban and the outdoors, with glorious forests, islands and beaches just a walk, pedal, paddle or ferry ride away. And if locals seem remarkably relaxed, you can thank saunas like Löyly Sauna , where you can steam before leaping into the sea (through an ice hole in winter).

You’re bound to find your own favorites, but unmissables include Unesco World Heritage Suomenlinna , a magnificent mid-18th century island fortress, the boutique and workshop-filled Design District and the picnic-perfect Esplanadi park. Put Kiasma for contemporary exhibitions and the palatial, neo-Renaissance Ateneum for Finnish art (including compelling frescoes of the national epic, Kalevala) at the top of your museum wish list. Home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, the glass-and-copper Musiikkitalo should be your first choice for high-caliber classical concerts and gigs.

As sunset bruises the sky above the Baltic, book a table at intimate, candlelit, Michelin-starred Demo , where Finnish cuisine is elevated to a new gourmet level in dishes like king crab with nettle pesto, and blackcurrant and liquorice-leaf marinated Åland lamb.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland

Tossing you in at the Arctic deep end, Rovaniemi , is Lapland in overdrive. Granted, you won’t have it to yourself – come Christmas time the city heaves with Santa groupies – but choose the shoulder season to visit and factor in time in the quieter surrounds and you’ll have a ball.

First up on your wish list is likely to be a visit to Santa and his gingerbread-baking elves in the blingy Santa Claus Village , atop the Arctic Circle, and Santapark . But this is really just the tip of the iceberg. Outside there’s scenery straight out of a snowglobe and a million and one ways to explore it: by reindeer-drawn sleigh, snowmobile, dogsled or on snowshoes. You can float in an icy lake spellbound by the northern lights arcing and swaying above, go ice fishing, or stay in a snow hotel or glass igloo. You name the Nordic fun – it’s here.

There’s a flurry of culture too in the form of Arktikum museum, zooming in on Lapland, Sámi culture and the history of Rovaniemi, and providing a fascinating primer on Arctic wildlife.

Tampere is a scenic city with creative energy

Scenically clasped between two lakes, Tampere fizzes with life and creative energy. The Tammerkoski rapids flow through the heart of the city, past the striking red brick facades of revamped fabric mills and industrial buildings now harboring museums, shops, bars and cafes. And with hiking trails, summer cottages, lake cruises and Finland’s oldest public sauna, Rajaportin , right on its doorstep, it’s never a toss up between culture and nature.

Sight-wise, you’ll want to tick off Amurin Työläismuseokortteli , where wooden houses take an insightful peek into workers’ lives from 1882 to 1973, and glass-and-steel Vapriikki , an eclectic exhibition space in the renovated Tampella textile mill. Tampere’s cathedral, Tuomiokirkko , is a whimsical vision of National Romantic art nouveau architecture. And kids (and lovers of cult trolls) go crazy for the Moomimuseo .

Tampere has one of Finland’s hottest food and nightlife scenes, too. Hit the kauppahalli (covered market) for a feast of fish, cheese, meat and pastries. Here you can try the city’s speciality, mustamakkara , blood sausage with lingonberry jam. In summer, there’s always a festival on, but year-round you’ll find live music at artsy Telakka .

Ylläs is an uncrowded Lapland resort

Folk from more mountainous lands may scoff at the idea of skiing in Ylläs , whose eponymous fell reaches a modest 718m (2355ft), but frankly they are missing a trick. This cute little resort in Lapland, 150km (93 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, has the kind of uncrowded slopes and fresh, downy powder other countries can only dream of. Throw in rime-frosted forests, views out across frozen tundra and the northern lights dancing in night skies, and it is the full on Narnia package.

The skiing scene here is delightfully low key, with pristine snow and 63km (39 miles) of downhill slopes to pound, plus plenty of off piste and cross-country tracks to glide along. And then there’s the clincher: the world’s only sauna gondola , where you can strip off and sweat as you float above the winter wonderland.

Åland Islands is a top summer destination

Dropped into the piercing blue Baltic Sea off the country’s southwest coast, the Åland Archipelago is the summertime Finnish fantasy. Bridges and ferries skip across to one sleepy, forested island to the next (there are 6500 islands and islets in total, but some are little more than nameless specks of red granite). The islands move to their own gentle rhythm, with days spent pedaling or hiking to castle ruins, windmills and beaches, or kayaking to remote islets, where you might spot an elk family swimming from island to island, see a sea-eagle soar overhead, or paddle alongside seals.

By night, it’s back to the summer cottage (many with their own boats and saunas) or campsite for an evening around a crackling campfire under starry skies. The remoter you go to the outer isles, the more magical it gets.

Piece together your own island-hopping itinerary. RO-NO Rent in Mariehamn can sort you out with bikes, canoes and small boats that don’t require a license, or rent a kayak or paddleboard at Paddelboden .

Kuopio is a cultured Lakeland city

If you’re seeking a bit of urban buzz before dipping an oar into the waters of Finnish Lakeland, Kuopio , dreamily hugging the shores of Lake Kallavesi delivers. The views out across sapphire waters, forested islands and skerries are an uplifting prelude to this cultured little city. Get your bearings over morning coffee in the revolving restaurant at the top of Puijon Torni . From there, you can dive into Finnish art at bank-turned-gallery Kuopion Taidemuseo and local history in Kuopion Museo , lodged in a castle-like art nouveau mansion.

One look at the sun burnishing the lakes and you’ll be itching to head outdoors to hike in spruce forests, hang out in beer gardens (and, of course, sample the famous local cloudberry liqueur), or cruise and kayak the waters. A steam and lake swim at the city’s huge, fabulously rustic smoke sauna, Jätkänkämppä , is perfect for unwinding at the end of a mellow summer day.

Savonlinna is a forested gateway to national parks

All is forest and water, green and blue in pretty Savolinna, embedded in Finnish Lakeland near the Russian border. Necklaced by islands and topped off by a turreted 15th-century stunner of a castle, Olavinlinna , the town wins hearts on looks alone. But this is also one of Finland’s cultural heavyweights as the host of the country’s most revered festival, July’s Savonlinna Opera Festival , held in the castle’s covered courtyard. Book well in advance to snag tickets to see the town at its aria-singing, life-loving best.

The beauty of basing yourself here is that you are but a splash away from some of Finland’s most serene and enchanting lake escapes: Linnansaari and Kolovesi national parks. The only way to get a true sense of their loveliness is to hire a kayak or canoe and go paddle camping . As you float past cliffs, caves and pine forests, keep a sharp eye out for otters, ospreys and one of the world’s rarest seals: the mottled, big-eyed Saimaa ringed seal. If you want to coo over their fur ball pups, come in spring.

Inari is home to indigenous Sámi culture 

Whether you glimpse its forest rimmed under the glow of the midnight sun or blanketed in snow and illuminated by the northern lights, Inari makes you catch your breath. This tiny speck of a village peers out across Lapland’s largest lake, island-speckled Inarijärvi, 300km (187 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. And it’s here that the pulse of the indigenous Sámi beats strongest.

The phenomenal Siida museum immerses you in Sámi culture, lending insight into their reindeer-herding traditions and Lapland’s unique ecology. Equally riveting is the architecturally striking Sajos , Sámi parliament, with a floor plan designed on a reindeer hide. But you’ll want to go deeper: perhaps taking a snowmobile out to Petri Mattus ’ reindeer farm in winter, or seeing the calving and earmarking in May. There’s a lot happening events-wise here, too: from July’s traditional Inari Weeks festivities to the grand finale of reindeer-racing season at the King’s Cup in late March.

Regardless of season, round out the day with foraged flavors and views of the Jäniskoski rapids at Aanaar , where you can dig into the likes of Arctic king crab with nettle butter, smoked reindeer heart with pine-needle vinaigrette, and cloudberry sorbet.

Inari is also a terrific springboard for forays into the remote fells, forests and gold-panning rivers of Lemmenjoki National Park and canyon-riven Kevo Strict Nature Reserve .

Turku has an exciting food and culture scene

Looking longingly out across the piercing blue Baltic, south coast Turku (in Swedish: Åbo) is an absolute knockout. This was the capital until 1812, when Tsar Alexander I of Russia decided to up sticks to Helsinki. A rich historic and cultural legacy is imprinted on the city to this day in the form of experimental art, upbeat music festivals and one of the country’s most exciting food scenes.

You’ll want to factor in time for a spin of Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova , a museum that whisks you underground to Old Turku’s medieval streets, then pings you back into the present with contemporary art upstairs. Finland’s largest fortress, Turun Linna , rewinds to the 13th century with its dungeons and lavish banqueting halls. And Turun Tuomiokirkko , the "mother church" of Finland’s Lutheran faith, is a Gothic vision in red brick. Visit during the silent hour (9-10am) as the morning sun slants through the windows to see it at its most atmospheric.

Summer turns the heat up a notch with music festivals like Turku Jazz and Ruisrock , boat bars on the south bank of the Aura River and parties fuelled by local craft beers. And when you tire of the city, you can hop on a ferry or kayak across to an island of your choice.

Urho Kekkonen National Park has lots of Finnish wildlife

It’s wild out there… Snuggling up close to the Russian border in the north of Lapland, the Urho Kekkonen National Park has an extraordinary portfolio of all the landscapes you come to the Arctic to see: old-growth pine, spruce and birch forests, high fells (including Korvatunturi, sacred among Finns as the original home of Santa), aapa mires and dazzlingly clear rivers and creeks. The park reels off the "greatest hits" of Finnish wildlife. With luck, patience and a decent pair of binoculars, you might see elk, reindeer, snow grouse, Arctic foxes and golden eagles. Brown bears, wolverines, wolves and lynx are far more elusive, but just knowing they are here adds an extra level of thrill.

Hiking here takes you through some soul-stirring landscapes, and there’s always a wilderness hut with a campfire and sauna where you can rest up after a long day’s trek. The Sámi town of Saariselkä is one of the most accessible gateways to the park.

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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.

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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!

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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

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Finland , Things to Do

31 amazing things to do in finnish lapland (for all seasons).

There are so many things to do in Finnish Lapland that creating a comprehensive guide is almost impossible… but I have tried my best!

This guide will take you through nearly everything you can do in Arctic Finland throughout the year. Some things are season-specific, and others are more general.

If you think I have missed anything on the list of things to do in Finnish Lapland, please leave a comment below!

Why Finnish Lapland?

Visiting Finnish Lapland may seem like a challenging and difficult trip, but fortunately, the Arctic in Europe is incredibly accessible compared to other places in the world.

Finnish Lapland is easy to reach with multiple small airports dotted throughout the towns and cities in the north. During the high season in winter, regular flights arrive at these airports directly from numerous cities throughout Europe.

Throughout summer, you will likely need to transfer through Helsinki. The Finnish Arctic is unbelievably beautiful with lakes spread out across the land and small peaks rising out of the forests.

Throughout the land, there are several settlements where you can find outstanding accommodations and plenty of activities to do during all seasons. This makes the Arctic in Finland one of the best places to visit year-round, in my opinion.

Season in Finnish Lapland

Past the Arctic Circle , seasons morph into a different beast, with long drawn-out winters that encroach well into what would normally be spring and summers that burst into life with never-ending days before fall quickly sneaks in.

Winter dominates the year running from December through to as late as the middle of May, when a thick blanket of snow covers Lapland . This is the perfect time for enjoying the many winter activities offered in the Arctic .

Spring and summer merge into one as the never-ending daylight speeds up the melting of the snow and life springs into action. The long days are perfect for hiking and exploring the countryside, but it does come with swarms of mosquitoes.

Fall arrives in early September, spreading from the north of Lapland down to the southern reaches quickly. This is one of the best times to see the northern lights . Called ruska in Finnish, the arrival of fall foliage brings out a new level of beauty in the Arctic.

When does it snow in Lapland?

The arrival of the snow that lasts throughout winter is becoming harder and harder to predict with the warming planet. It tends to arrive first in the northern areas of Lapland, around mid-November.

Then by late December, the snow should be further south in places like Rovaniemi . However, between September and November, you will see many snow flurries that will most likely not stick around long.

The snow will stay until April or May depending on how thick it is and how warm the weather gets. Most snow-based tours will stop in April.

Temperatures in Finnish Lapland

Lapland covers much of the northern reaches of Finland and temperature differences between the southern limits and the northern reaches can be around up to 10°C different.

I have provided average temperatures below for rough seasonal parameters.

• Winter: November to March temperatures are on average around -13°C
• Spring: April to May temperatures generally hover on average around 0°C
• Summer: June to August temperatures are in the high teens and often go above 20°C
• Fall: September to October average temperatures are around 10°C

Naturally, temperatures will wildly fluctuate depending on where you are. For example, winter in Rovaneimi is not as cold as Inari, given both its location and the size of the city.

Best things to do in Finnish Lapland

Here is my list of the most amazing things to do in Lapland.

This list is a mixture of year-round, summer, and winter activities. Is there something I have missed? Please add it to the comments below!

1. Explore the lakes and rivers of Finnish Lapland

One of the best summer activities in Lapland is canoeing. Known as the land of a thousand lakes (187,188 to be exact), there is no shortage of water throughout the country. Many of these lakes are located in Lapland with connecting rivers that flow south towards the northern edge of the Baltic Sea .

Thrill seekers should head to Kuusamo or Savukoski , where rapids form and white water rafting is the only way to travel down the river, especially once the meltwater starts to arrive.

For those looking to attempt rafting for the first time, I recommend visiting Kuusamo. Alternatively, the Teno River, which forms a natural border between Finland and Norway, is the perfect place to do multi-day kayak trips, with the river eventually tipping out into the Arctic Ocean .

For those looking for a more chilled-out experience or just wanting to learn to canoe, I recommend taking a tour canoeing under the midnight sun. There is something so peaceful about paddling through the water as the midnight sun basks upon you.

2. Try to land a catch ice fishing in Lapland

The clean clear waters of Lapland are the perfect habitat for fish. Once the lakes become encased in ice, the fish slow down and move to the warmer water towards the bottom of the lake. However, this does not mean they cannot be caught.

Throughout winter, locals head out onto frozen lakes, drill a hole through the thick ice, and patiently wait for a fish to bite. The most common fish you will catch are perch and Arctic char , both residing in the freshwater lakes and rivers of Lapland.

While those visiting Lapland may not be able to head out on their own to ice fish, many great tours will take you ice fishing and provide you with all the equipment you need.

Ice fishing is generally great all over Lapland, but the waters around Inari and Saariselkä are well stocked with fish.

Ice fishing tours generally run from December until April. However, this is entirely dependent on when the lakes freeze over and thaw.

The advantage of an ice fishing tour is it is often combined with another activity such as snowmobiling or snowshoeing, like the Rovaniemi ice fishing tour with snowshoeing I took.

3. Make your own path while snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the countryside of Lapland. Much of the countryside becomes completely inaccessible during winter apart from maintained paths, but with a pair of snowshoes, you can access places that haven’t seen humans since the start of winter.

Snowshoeing can be done from when the snow first starts to settle until the end of winter, but it is most fun when the snow is deeper and impassable by other means.

The best places to snowshoe are the Finnish national parks located in Lapland, like the famous Riisitunturi National Park . With over 40km of marked trails that will take you through the snow-covered forest, you can see the famous popcorn trees  here.

With snowshoes, you can leave the more congested paths and head deeper into the national park to find picture-perfect scenes. When snowshoeing, be sure not to walk on marked cross-country skiing trails.

Snowshoeing can be done on a tour, or you can alternatively rent a pair from most places and head out on your own.

4. Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Finnish Lapland

Dog sledding is one of the most exhilarating activities in Lapland. There is something about seeing the joy in the huskies as they get ready to run, barking with excitement as the breaks are taken off.

When choosing a husky tour, the most important thing is to consider the sustainability credentials of the tour operator. One of the most ethical tour operators in Lapland is Hetta Huskies based out of Enontekiö .

Located in the northern reaches of Lapland, Hetta Huskies offer short husky rides and multi-day trips where you venture out into the taiga or out onto the tundra for three to five days.

Alternatively, Bearhill Husky located close to Rovaniemi prides itself on being a sustainable farm whose top priority is the dog’s health. While the most popular time to visit husky farms is winter, the farms are open for visitors year-round.

Visiting during the snow-free months is just as fun as you can spend time getting to know the dogs and, if you are lucky, meet any new puppies born that spring!

Visiting a husky farm during the summer months is a great way to help the husky farms sustain themselves until winter. To learn more about sustainable dog sledding, I recommend reading this informative CNN article .

5. Learn about Sámi culture

For thousands of years, the Arctic has been home to the Sámi , the Indigenous people of the north. Their historical lands are referred to as Sápmi and stretch from Norway to the Kola Peninsula in Russia .

In Finland, there are around 10,000 Sámi with the biggest population being in Inari. Inari is the best place to learn about the Sámi people in Finland, with the Siida Sami Museum being at the forefront of preserving the Sámi culture.

While Inari is known as the cultural capital of the Sámi, Utsjoki is the only area where the majority of the population is Sámi.

The area is a great place to learn about other aspects of the Sámi culture such as salmon fishing practices, with the Teno River being one of the best salmon spots in Europe .

6. Put the pedal to the metal snowmobiling

One of the most fun and exciting things to do during winter in Lapland is snowmobiling. Powering through the snow at speed along designated snowmobile tracks or your own path is unbelievably exhilarating.

Throughout Lapland, there are some amazing places to go snowmobiling where you can explore different landscapes. Kuusamo and Ruka are the best for those wanting to weave in and out of the trees that make up the taiga.

Alternatively, the frozen rivers that run through Rovaniemi make for incredible snowmobile highways, allowing you to concentrate on traveling at speed (within the speed limits naturally).

In the north, Lake Inari , Finland’s third largest lake, is another great place to explore. Snowmobiles allow you to reach areas of the lake that are generally only accessible by boat.

In my opinion, the best way to enjoy snowmobiling is on a tour, where your tour guide will take you to the best spots and ensure you stay on the correct trails.

Modern advancements in snowmobiling mean that many tour providers are switching to electric snowmobiles, which are not only better for the environment but also drastically cut down noise pollution.

7. Spend the night bear-watching in Lapland

One of my all-time favorite experiences in Lapland was going bear-watching . While bears inhabit all of Finland, the population is largely concentrated in Eastern Finland and Lapland.

One of the best places to see bears is Kuusamo, right on the Russian border. During the bear-watching season between May and September, bears travel over the border in search of food.

In the carefully situated huts around Kuntilampi (bear pond), where the bears know there is the possibility of finding food, you can spend the evening watching these majestic animals going about their daily business.

Ninety-nine percent of visitors will see at least one bear, although occasionally, you will need a fair bit of patience as the bears can arrive late at night.

Fortunately, during the midnight sun , the constant daylight is perfect for photographing the bears throughout the early hours of the morning.

8. Go on a moose safari in Lapland

Moose are fairly prevalent throughout Finnish Lapland, but seeing one is often challenging. For such large animals, they hide themselves superbly. One of the best places to see moose during the summer and early fall is just south of Rovaniemi. Set your satnav to the northern end of the Pisantie Road.

Once you have reached your destination, follow Pisantie Road south, until it kind of forks and you will want to turn right onto Louejoentie. Follow the dirt road and scan for moose, which inhabit this area in large numbers due to a hunting ban.

Keep an eye out on the verges as sometimes they come out of nowhere, which has happened to me the two times I have seen them in the area. Once you reach the end of the road turn left onto the main road and rejoin the Pisantie road to finish the loop.

The best time to see moose is early fall during the mating season when they are most active. During summer they are around, but seeing them is hard due to the overgrowth, there is a higher chance during the evening and morning but I did see one in the middle of the day.

Alternatively, you can book a moose-watching tour that departs from Rovaniemi, where a guide will take you to the area and drive the circuit. The advantage of taking the tour is that the guides are well-adapted to seeing moose. You will also be provided with binoculars.

9. Explore Lapland while cross-country skiing

Cross-country skiing is the national pastime of the Finnish people, and there are ski tracks nearly everywhere! Saariselkä village alone has more than 200 km (124 mi) of ski tracks! For those wanting to learn to cross-country ski, it is best to stick around a ski resort such as Ylläs .

In Ylläs there are 314 km (195 mi) of cross-country skiing trails, throughout the resort and into Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park . Some of the trails through the national park are only maintained by snowmobiles as they head deep into the more inaccessible parts of the park, so after heavy snowfall, they may not be accessible straight away.

The Pyhä and Luosto National Park has 150 km (93 mi) of cross-country skiing paths that take you between the two sectors of the national park. The designated cross-country skiing routes should never be walked or snowshoed on!

10. Visit Rudolph at a reindeer farm

There are around 200,000 reindeer in Finland, nearly all of which are semi-wild. They spend spring, summer, and fall out in the forests and tundra, before being brought back to the farms for winter where they can be fed and kept safe.

Unlike the rest of the Nordics, reindeer farming in Finland is not reserved only for the Sámi. However, some of the best places to see reindeer are around Sámi-populated areas like Inari and Utsjoki.

In Utsjoki, there are around 10,000 reindeer to the 1,400 residents, and you will often see them on the roads or even hanging outside of hotels. To get up close to the reindeer and have the chance to feed them, you can visit a reindeer farm, like Reindeer Farm Petri Mattus close to Inari.

Here, you will be taken out to the forest to meet the reindeer and learn all about the Sámi traditions around reindeer herding. Further south in Finnish Lapland, Luosto is a great place to see reindeer, with a large herd often found wandering through the town and sitting outside of the Lapland Hotels Luostotunturi .

On the road between Rovaniemi and Luosto, you will often find yourself in reindeer traffic jams as they trot down the roads seemingly with no fear of cars. While reindeer are all owned, they are still wild animals and should be treated with respect and not disturbed .

11. Visit one of the best museums in Lapland

Many of the bigger settlements throughout Lapland have a range of interesting museums that you can visit throughout the year. The museums generally focus on life in the Arctic, the environment, and the Sami.

Museums are open year-round and provide the perfect getaway from the cold during the winter. Here are a few of the best museums located in Finnish Lapland.

Located in Rovaniemi, Artikum is a great place to learn about everything to do with the Arctic, from the animals of the far north to how we need to protect it for future generations.

Address: Pohjoisranta 4, 96200 Rovaniemi

Siida is an incredible Sámi museum in Inari. For those staying in the region around Inari, it is a must-visit so that you can learn about the history of the Sámi and Sápmi. Tickets for Siida can be purchased in advance or at the museum.

Address: Inarintie 46, 99870 Inari

Särestöniemen Museosäätiö

Särestöniemen Museosäätiö is a museum dedicated to displaying the artwork of Reidar Särestöniemi, one of Lapland’s most famous artists. The museum buildings themselves make visitors feel like they are stepping back in time, having been in the Säarestöniemi family since the 19th century.

Address: Särestöntie 880, 99110 Kittilä

12. Relax in a Finnish sauna

Saunas in Finland are a big business. Nearly every single housing building will come with a sauna for the residents or individual saunas in the apartment. For visitors, it is a must-do experience while staying in Lapland. While it can be done pretty much everywhere, here are a few more unique sauna experiences throughout Lapland.

Kiilopää Sauna World

Kiilopää Sauna World is located close to Saariselkä, forming part of the wonderful Suomen Latu Kiilopää resort. In the resort’s little world of saunas, you will find both a traditional smoke sauna and an electric sauna. After warming up in the sauna, take a plunge into the Kiikopää River pools.

Address: Kiilopääntie 620, 99830 Saariselkä

Apukka Ice Sauna

At Apukka Resort , you will find one of the world’s most unique sauna experiences, an ice sauna . Built each winter, the sauna is made up of ice logs and creates an odd feeling of both cold and hot.

Address: Tutkijantie 28, 96900 Rovaniemi

Floating Sauna

During summer, there is a chance for another unique sauna experience, the floating sauna . Departing from Rovaniemi, Nordic Unique Travels offers a special sauna lake cruise where you can spend the evening on their special sauna boat in the middle of the lake.

Once you are sufficiently hot, plunge into the lake under the glow of the midnight sun.

13. Eat traditional food from Finnish Lapland

The gastronomic scene in Lapland is superb, with plenty of incredible dishes that utilize fresh local ingredients. Despite short growing seasons, the lands in the north are productive and many fresh ingredients are unique to the Lapland and the Arctic.

Reindeer meat has sustained the people of the north for millennia. It is considered to not only be healthier lean meat, but it is also a more sustainable way of consuming meat .

Here are a few of the dishes you must try while in Lapland:

Sautéed Reindeer (Poronkäristys)

One of my all-time favorite dishes is sautéed reindeer, consisting of thin shavings of reindeer meat that have been sautéed and cooked in a delicate sauce, served over mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

Finland’s rivers in the north produce some of the most incredible salmon, and this traditional hearty soup is a great way to consume salmon in a delectable creamy sauce.

Finnish Squeaky Cheese (Leipäjuusto)

While not necessarily a dish of its own, Finnish squeaky cheese is a great way to finish off a meal and can make up part of a cheese board or be served with cloudberry jam for a traditional dessert.

14. Take a road trip during the midnight sun

Summer in the Arctic is perfect for epic road trips as the midnight sun shines throughout the night. The long days make road trips easy as you don’t feel the constraint of wanting to finish driving for the day before nightfall.

Take the opportunity to drive as far north as you can, taking in the sights and towns of the high Arctic. One of the most amazing road trips I have done is from Rovaniemi to Vardø in Northern Norway .

The journey from the Arctic Circle to the Arctic Ocean can be done in around eight hours without stops. Instead, I took the time to experience the towns of Ivalo , Inari, and Utsjoki along the way before heading into Norway and marveling at the drastically different scenery.

You can choose to stay in hotels along the way or you can wild camp on public land along the way.

15. Hunt for the Aurora Borealis in Finnish Lapland

The chance to see the A urora Borealis draws visitors in their droves to Lapland every year. Seeing this natural phenomenon is incredible and really should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Lapland is one of the best places to see the northern lights in the world. However, seeing the aurora does involve a little bit of luck, requiring both solar activity and clear skies that no one can control.

While clear skies are the most important thing, the location you choose will make the photo.

Lakes are a great place to view the lights early in the season before the water freezes as they reflect the aurora in the sky, making for epic pictures. Given the size of Lake Inari, it makes for an incredible picture.

During the depths of winter, the famous popcorn trees of Riisitunturi National Park make for incredible pictures. Rovaniemi is one of the best places for starting a northern lights adventure as the well-connected city has roads heading in pretty much every direction and makes it more convenient to hunt for clear skies.

I always try and take a Rovaniemi northern lights tour when I am there.

16. Pick wild berries

Throughout summer and fall, you will find thousands of berries that are growing wild and ready to pick!

Seasons for berry picking vary depending on the type of berry, but normally, by the end of July, you can find plenty of edible berries and the supermarkets will start selling numerous tools that help you pick them!

I have included some information about some of the berries you can expect to find in the Arctic.

Blueberries

Blueberries are abundant throughout Lapland. They start appearing in August and can be pretty much found everywhere in the forest. As they get older, they start to ferment a little, and they say they get the moose and reindeer a little drunk.

Cloudberries

Cloudberries are some of the most valuable berries in the world. They grow sporadically and are generally some of the first to be harvested due to their worth. Generally, they are best to be picked in August.

Lingonberries

One of the most iconic berries of northern Europe is the lingonberry. This sour berry is great in sauces and the perfect accompaniment for reindeer and moose dishes. They can be found pretty much anywhere and are picked from late August into fall.

17. Spend a day hiking

Hiking in Lapland is awesome. The terrain throughout Lapland is not super challenging with relatively small peaks that rise out of the boreal forest . Given the importance of nature in the Finnish way of life, there are plenty of marked trails and boardwalks that keep you raised above the boggy lands.

Along the routes, there are often little huts where you can light a fire and cook food on the grill; dry wood is generally available for free or for a small cost.

Here are a few of the best hikes in Lapland:

Karhunkierros Trail

Located largely in the Oulanka National Park , Karhunkierros Trail is one of the most famous and popular hiking trails in Lapland, full of scenic sites such as rapids, forests, and fells.

The route is an 82 km (51 mi) multiday hike that can begin In Ruka or Hautajärvi and is generally done over 4 days. Alternatively, you can take the shorter 12 km (7.5 mi) day hike that is a circular route from Oulanka Basecamp or Juuma village parking area.

The hikes are both quite demanding but can be done by those with basic hiking skills. They are not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Saana Fell popular hiking destination located in northern Lapland by Enontekiö. This short 4 km (2.5 mi) hike takes you to the summit of the Saana Fell at 1,029 m (3,376 ft).

Saana Fell is the starting point of the Scandinavian mountain range, offering incredible views out over the tundra below. The hike is not too strenuous but is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Arctic Circle Hiking Area

The Arctic Circle Hiking area is a great location close to Rovaniemi where you can enjoy many different trails that are all well-marked and range from easy to medium difficulty.

This area has accessible trails for those with mobility issues, such as the Könkäänsaari Accessible Nature Trail. This trail is a 1.5 km (0.9 mi) circle trail and has access to accessible toilets too.

18. Stay in a Lapland glass igloo

Glass igloos are one of the most sought-after accommodation types in Lapland, with their promise of stunning views of the aurora overhead as you lie in bed.

However, not all of them are igloo-shaped! These hotels are generally on the higher end of the budget spectrum but are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I highly recommend for at least a night if your budget allows it.

Here are three glass igloo hotels that I highly recommend staying at throughout Lapland:

Glass Resort

Located behind Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is Glass Resort , which offers multi-level igloos that are perfect for those wanting to enjoy a luxury stay while visiting Rovaniemi.

Each igloo comes equipped with a sauna, kitchen, living area, and mezzanine bedroom. On the outside, every igloo has its own secluded outdoor hot tub.

Address: Tähtikuja 16, 96930 Rovaniemi

Aurora Village

Aurora Village is situated just outside of Ivalo and is, in my opinion, one of the best aurora resorts in Lapland. The glass-roofed cabins are cozy, with a large double bed, coffee and tea-making facilities, and a nice bathroom.

At night, the resort is away from any natural light. They also minimize their own light pollution as much as possible.

Address: Aurorakuja 38, 99800 Inari

Arctic Skylight Lodge

Found in Äkäslompolo , the Arctic Skylight Lodge has 10 secluded forest lodges, where you can look out over the forest and hopefully at the clear skies above.

Each lodge offers uninterrupted views of the sky and forest from a comfortable bed.

Address: Äkäslompolontie 2748, 95970 Äkäslompolo

19. Hit the slopes in Finnish Lapland

While Finland may not have the reputation of the Alps or even its neighbor Norway for skiing and snowboarding. there are several great resorts in Lapland that are perfect for beginners and those looking for a more relaxing ski trip where you can mix in some other winter activities.

Below I have listed some information about three amazing resorts in Lapland:

Located close to Kuusamo, Ruka has the longest ski season running from early October until May. Snow from the previous season is preserved so that the ski season can start in October before the snow arrives.

There are about 19 km (11.8 mi) of slopes in Ruka, most of which are blue runs, although there are some reds and blacks available for more advanced skiers and riders. The snowpark is known to be one of the best in Finland. The closest airport to Ruka is Kuusamo.

Levi is one of the most famous resorts in Finland and each year hosts a leg of the women’s alpine skiing World Cup. The winner of this stage of the World Cup is given a reindeer that they can name and visit whenever they want!

There are 38.5 km (23.92 mi) of ski slopes of varying difficulty with just under 50% of those being red runs. There are also several snowparks in Levi for those looking to improve their freestyle technique. The closest airport to Levi is Kittilä .

Ylläs is the largest resort in all of Lapland, boasting 53 km (32.93 mi) of slopes. Most of the slopes are of red and blue difficulty, but there are about 6 km (3.73 mi) of black runs.

There are also four snowparks in the resort. The closest airport to Ylläs is Kittilä.

20. Cook in the wild

Lapland is a paradise for those who love to spend time outdoors. Be it the well-built hiking routes or the endless summer days, there is very little reason to spend the day inside even during the middle of winter.

To make an outdoorsy life easier, there are hundreds if not thousands of public fireplaces located throughout the countryside. These little huts come in various sizes from small lean-to shelters called laavu to larger enclosed buildings where you can even spend the night.

Near many of the laavu is a shed containing free or cheap firewood so you can enjoy your meals outside.

There is nothing better than heading out into the wild with some food for grilling, knowing at the end of your hike or hunt of the aurora you can stop and warm and fill up by a roaring fire. Some of these laavu are located in the most scenic spots such as the Kuninkaanlaavu lean-to near Rovaniemi or Otsamo, Inari.

21. Celebrate Midsummer the Finnish way

One of the most significant dates in the Arctic is the arrival of Midsummer or Juhannus in Finnish. This is the day when the sun officially does not set and you can enjoy the endless daylight.

Experiencing the midnight sun is truly a unique experience and you will easily lose track of time. On the actual day of Midsummer, there are normally plenty of activities going on as people celebrate outdoors.

Look out for bonfires on the beach or sauna experiences where you slap each other with birch brushes, to name a few activities! As this is a celebratory time, there is often plenty of cake going around, utilising strawberries that are in season during this period. These are some of the best strawberries in the world!

Midsummer is a different day each year, but it is always between the 20th and 26th of June. Despite the potential for all-day sunshine, it will not necessarily be warm and it has snowed on occasion.

22. Revel at ruska

While Lapland may be known for its picturesque landscapes during winter, fall might just be the most beautiful time of year.

Known as ruska , the forests of Lapland begin to change their colors at the start of September. Ruska arrives in the north first where places like Utsjoki start seeing the trees with their fall foliage in early September.

By the end of September, ruska reaches the southern end of Lapland and the dense boreal forest is transformed into autumnal hues. During this period, the northern lights tend to be at their strongest, the forests are abundant with food, and the weather is perfect for hiking.

The ruska period ends when the snow starts to arrive and a white blanket is laid over Lapland.

23. Marvel at the Polar Night

When people imagine the Arctic during the winter, they assume it is plunged into complete darkness. However, this is only true for the high Arctic in places like Svalbard . The polar night in Finnish Lapland is dark, but during the middle of the day, there is a glimmer of light on the horizon as the sun fails to rise above it.

The further north you go in Lapland, the earlier the polar night starts and the longer it lasts. In Ruka there is an incredible Polar Night Light Festival , where light installations are lit around the resort, most of which can be seen for free. Others you will need to hit the slopes to experience. The festival runs every year throughout January.

24. Chase frozen waterfalls

As the winter freeze starts, little trickles of water down the sides of canyons and hills build into giant frozen waterfalls . This incredible transformation is one of the coolest things to see in Lapland and there is no better place to see frozen waterfalls than Korouoma Canyon in southern Lapland.

Numerous frozen waterfalls line the canyon, but most people, including myself, take a Korouoma Canyon hiking tour to see the three most famous ones. You will head down into the canyon approximately 5 km (3.11 mi), passing three frozen waterfalls.

The hike is relatively easy, but there are some challenging icy sections where you will need spikes on your shoes or help from a guide to navigate. Some of the waterfalls are used for ice climbing, which makes for pretty epic views as people attempt to get to the top of the frozen waterfall.

The frozen waterfalls form as the big freeze sets over the Arctic. However, I recommend going to see them in later winter when there is more daylight to really enjoy the hike and scenery.

I advise taking a tour of the canyon from Rovaniemi as the challenging parts are very difficult. I personally do not think I would have completed the hike without the knowledge of my tour guide.

25. Try local drinks

When it comes to the national drink of Finland, there is only one winner… black coffee. It is available everywhere, comes with free refills in most cafes, and seemingly powers the whole population.

As someone who doesn’t drink coffee, I do not understand the obsession! However, there are a few other must-try drinks when visiting Finnish Lapland.

Glögi is a spiced berry drink that can be with or without alcohol. This is traditionally consumed around Christmas time, but is a great winter warmer throughout the long Arctic winter.

Lapland Brewery

Lapland Brewery is Finland’s most northern brewery. They look to be inspired by their Arctic surroundings, which are reflected in the names of their brews such as the Pyhä-Luosto Wilderness Lager.

The brewery is located in Rovaniemi and is open every day apart from Sundays. Tours of the brewery are offered every Friday, but you will need to book your visit in advance via their website.

Address: Teollisuustie 14 B, 96320 Rovaniemi

26. Visit incredible national parks

Lapland is home to some of Finland’s most amazing national parks. The great thing about the national parks of Lapland is they can be visited in every season! Summer is perfect for hiking with long drawn-out days, while fall brings the beautiful changing of colors, making for awe-inspiring and colorful vistas.

In winter, the thick covering of snow turns the parks into a winter wonderland, where you can enjoy various winter sports. Here are a few of my favorite national parks in Lapland:

Lemmenjoki National Park

Located in northern Lapland, Lemmenjoki National Park is the largest nature reserve in Finland. Located in the heart of the Finnish part of Sápmi, it’s a great place to see reindeer roam wild.

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park boasts to have the cleanest air in the world! The Taivaskeronkierros Circle Trail will lead you to the top of the Fell with panoramic views of the surrounding nature.

During winter, this is a great place to see the famed popcorn trees like those found in Riisitunturi National Park.

Hugging the Russian border, Oulanka is one of the most beautiful parks in Lapland, especially during fall. The park is home to awesome waterfalls that are some of the best in all of Finland.

27. Take an icebreaker cruise

During winter the Bothnian Bay , in the northern Baltic Sea freezes over, with thick sea ice blocking the shipping routes for busy ports.

To clear passages in the ice, special ice-breaking ships are called into action. This provides an opportunity for one of the most unique experiences in Lapland, where visitors can spend a day onboard an ice breaker ship.

Numerous tours depart from Rovaniemi, Kemi , and Tornio . These tours will either take you to a ship located in Kemi, Finland, or Axelsvik, Sweden . I recommend taking an icebreaker cruise that takes you to the port in Sweden, as onboard you will get a three-course dinner included in the cost of the tour.

Once on the boat, you will receive a guided tour of the seven decks and learn all about how these ships function in such challenging circumstances.

The boat will eventually stop and you will be given the opportunity to stand on the sea ice and then enjoy ice floating in the path the boat has cleared in the sea (providing the captain deems it safe to do so). If you take the tour from Rovaniemi, it will last for around 10-11 hours.

28. Forage for mushrooms

As summer in the Arctic draws to an end, the forests of Lapland become a treasure trove of forgeable mushrooms, which, thanks to everyman’s right, can be picked by anyone!

While most mushrooms in Lapland are edible, it is advisable to go with an expert the first time you head out to forage mushrooms.

You can also read a little more about mushrooms on the Arktiset Aromit website .

Matsutake (Pine Mushroom)

Matsutake is one of the most expensive types of mushrooms in the world. They are found amongst the pine trees and can be harvested between the end of July and October. You must partially boil them before they can be consumed.

Northern Milkcap

The northern milkcap is a common variety of mushrooms that can be found throughout Lapland. They can be harvested in August and September and should be boiled before being used. The water they are boiled in should be disposed of and not reused.

29. Visit a unique ice hotel in Lapland

One of the coolest things to do in Finnish Lapland during winter is visit an ice hotel . Built every year, these sculptured structures are both a functioning hotel and a work of art. Many of the rooms are individually designed by ice sculptors.

Staying in an ice hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and while the outside might be incredibly cold, the inside temperatures are comparably warm at -1°C (30.2°F) compared to up to -30°C (-22°F) outside. While staying the night in an icy room might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the hotels are open during the day for visitors to just walk around the structures and admire the rooms.

Below I have listed the best ice hotels in Lapland:

Arctic Snow Hotel

Arctic Snow Hotel is probably the most well-known of all the ice hotels in Finnish Lapland. Located close to Rovaniemi, it opens each year in mid-December and sleeps around 70 people.

Address: Lehtoahontie 27, 97220 Sinettä

Lapland Hotels Snow Village

Each year, close to Kittilä airport , the Lapland Hotels Snow Village is built. Every year the designers think up a new theme, taking inspiration from cities like New York to more mythical themes.

There are 12 ice rooms that sleep between 2-4 people and an on-site restaurant serving delicious three-course meals.

Address: Lainiotie 566, 99120 Kittilä

30. Meet Santa Claus at his office

Every year thousands of tourists flock to Lapland, to meet Santa Claus . Finnish Lapland is widely known to be the home of Santa Claus and you will not be short of opportunities to meet him.

While many locations in Lapland offer the chance to meet the big man, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus .

Santa Claus Village is a free-to-visit park on the outskirts of Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa Claus in person, cross the Arctic Circle, and send mail from Santa’s own personal post office!

While Santa Claus Village is free and so is visiting Santa Claus, there are up-charges. For example, you can’t take your own photos with Santa. Instead, you must pay around 40 euros for the one they take.

Santa Claus Village is primarily designed for children, although adults love it just as much. Along with the numerous activities available, there are some fantastic places to eat.

My favorite by far is Santas Salmon Place , where you can devour a huge piece of salmon that has been cooked over an open fire in the middle of the restaurant.

31. Dive into culture at a festival

Throughout the year, some incredible festivals in the Arctic celebrate its rich culture, look to entertain after a long dark winter, or take advantage of the never-ending summer days.

Here are some of the best festivals and events that are held in Lapland each year:

Held between February and March, the Poro Cup is a reindeer racing event that guarantees to be entertaining.

The racers hold on behind the reindeer with skis as they compete in races across frozen lakes. However, reindeer are stubborn animals, so if they decide they don’t wish to run, they will not move, creating an open playing field, to say the least!

The event moves around with the final race always being held in Inari in March.

Midnight Sun Film Festival

Held in Sodankylä each year during Midsummer, the Midnight Sun Film Festival brings the heavyweights of Finnish and international cinema to the Arctic. Spread across four venues, you can watch films for 24 hours a day for five days straight.

The highlight of the festival each year is their silent movie concerts.

Ijahis Idja

Hosted in Inari, Ijahis Idja is the only Sámi music festival in Finland. Each year, new and established Sámi artists have the chance to perform for the crowds at this two-day festival.

After the live music stops, the night doesn’t end, with club nights featuring Sámi DJs, keeping the revelers going until the early hours.

I hope this post has helped you decide how to spend your time in Finnish Lapland! If you have any comments or additional things you feel should be included, please let me know in the comments below!

More Finnish Lapland travel guides

• Winter in Rovaniemi: The best things to do
• How to take a Rovaniemi ice fishing tour
• The perfect Korouoma Canyon tour
• My favourite Rovaniemi northern lights tour
• Incredible National Parks in Finnish Lapland
• 12 reasons to visit Rovaniemi in summer
• Incredible places to visit in Finnish Lapland

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Finland Tours and Trips 2024/2025

The Scandinavian country of Finland is a beautiful destination year-round. In the south, the capital city of Helsinki has a beautiful harbour offering sailing tours and cruises, while Lapland in the north is ideal for sightings of the Northern Lights. Families flock to Rovaniemi each year in hopes of seeing Santa Claus, while snowshoers and skiers head to Kuusamo to get in touch with nature.

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45 Trips in Finland with 288 Reviews

• Starts Basecamp Oulanka, Finland
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Finnish Wilderness Week

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• Starts Helsinki, Finland
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Finnish Lapland in Winter

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
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Aurora & Glass Igloo Explorer - 5 Days

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Snowshoeing in Finland

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The Northern Lights of Finland

• Activities Northern lights tours & City sightseeing
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• Age Range 1-95 yrs

• Starts Kuhmo, Finland
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Christmas in Finland - 6 Days

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• Starts Turku, Finland
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The Turku Archipelago

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Scandinavia Explorer

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3059'>+2 more
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New Year's in Finland - 7 Days

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Baltic Adventure

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Finland Tour Reviews

• Sandra Cohen

Finland - Tour Highlights and Travel Tips

Spending holidays in Finland is like visiting a winter wonderland. However, this northern European nation rarely gets the attention it deserves. Finland is one of the most outstanding and breath-taking countries in the world. In winter, its snow-covered forests, frozen valleys, and endless horizons will transport you to a fairy-tale world. During the summer, tree lines as far as the eye can see, clear blue skies, and untouched lakes will make you want to stay forever. A trip to Finland needs to be in your travel bucket list if it isn’t already. Don’t miss out on some of the most breath-taking landscapes on earth. 

Travel Highlights

• Visit Suomenlinna, which is an 18th century sea fortress and a UNESCO world heritage site.
• Visit Helsinki Senate Square, a must-see in every visit to Helsinki.
• Rovaniemi is the “official” home of Santa Claus, and a mere one hour flight from Helsinki .
• Högberget’s Cave is another outstanding sight that was formed during an ice age.
• The Legendary Gold Fields of Lapland is full of myths and adventure.

Travel Tips

• Finland is the land of saunas. It would be a crime to not seek one out while visiting. The country claims to have roughly 3.5 million saunas in all of Finland, which is equivalent to a sauna for every 1.6 people.
• Thanks to the strong influences from Sweden and Russia, Finnish architecture is one of the most breath-taking ones in Europe. Go for a walk around Helsinki and admire the architecture, especially works by Alvar Aalto.
• If you’re looking to connect with nature, there’s no better place than Finland. Pack appropriately and head out to the Finnish archipelago for an amazing experience.
• If you’re not planning on driving, then it’s a good idea to obtain a Rail Pass while in Finland. These passes could save you quite a bit on transportation, and help you get around the country easily.
• For those who want to visit Finland on a budget, opt for the Fall and Winter months. Prices at these times are, as you might expect, much cheaper than the high season. Frozen Finnish landscapes are truly mesmerizing, which makes it absolutely worth it.
• If you’re hunting for northern lights, then the winter months are the best times to visit. Sign up for a northern light safari, and go out hunting for northern lights on a snowmobile!

Finland has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Finland before planning your tour. And if you’re still hunting for more things to do and places to explore in Finland, do check out our Finland Travel Guide for more information.

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• Cultural, religious and historic sites tours

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Highlights of Finland

Discover the highlights of Helsinki and the natural wonders of Finnish Lapland

Personalised journeys from start to finish

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What's included

At a glance.

Race across a frozen lake in a snowmobile, wander down the cobbled streets of an old town, get up close to reindeer, take a cruise on an icebreaker and unwind at the end of each day in luxury Arctic lodges and hotels. The breathtaking beauty of Finland is waiting to be uncovered on this thrilling nine-day adventure.

You’ll begin with a privately guided tour of Helsinki , taking in many of the city’s highlights and important sites. Visit the Presidential Palace, Helsinki Cathedral and the monument to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. You will also take a cruise over to Tallinn Old Town in Estonia, where you’ll walk inside the walls of the old city. Wander along old stone streets to the iconic Kiek in de Kok tower and Toompea Hill.

The next part of your epic trip unfolds in Finnish Lapland where you’ll begin with a visit to Inari and the Siida Museum. Your private guide will introduce you to the culture, art, history and traditions of the Sami people. There will also be time to make the most of the wintery landscape as you take to the frozen Lake Inari on snowmobiles. Your next stop will be Muotka where a visit to a reindeer farm will let you spend time with the peaceful animals and learn all about the life of a reindeer herder. Enjoy some more snowmobiling and try your hand at ice fishing on a private lake.

At the right time of year, you may be fortunate enough to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, and what better way to experience that than on a sleigh pulled by reindeer. In a similar vein, another highlight of this memorable trip is a husky safari. You will control your own team of four dogs as you go mushing along beautiful trails near Rovaniemi.

Finally, you will get to take a luxurious cruise aboard the Sampo Icebreaker which will be waiting for you on the Gulf of Bothnia off the coast of Kemi. Wrap up warm in a survival suit and take an invigorating dip in the icy waters, before heading back to shore on snowmobiles again.

Example trip itinerary

Meet and greet

Private transfer to your hotel in Helsinki

Accommodation in Helsinki

Close to Helsinki’s South Harbour and a short walk from the historic city centre, the Hotel Haven is an understated and comfortable city hotel that is rather more luxurious than its modern façade would first suggest. There are 137 well-appointed rooms and spacious suites, some of which enjoy views over the harbour or the Market Square.

Downstairs you’ll find a welcoming foyer warmed by a fireplace and Bar Haven lounge with hundreds of malt and blended whiskies to try. The breakfast venue is inside the beautiful Sundmans’ building, the second oldest stone building in Helsinki, which sits just off the harbour.

From its opening in 1877, Hotel Kamp has been the hotel of choice for Finland ’s most prominent figures as well as visiting dignitaries ranging from composer Jean Sibelius to the Rolling Stones. Located on Esplanadi Park, a green park square lined with luxury shops, cathedrals and museums, there are few better places to stay in Helsinki .

Grand 19th century interiors with 21st century touches can be found in all 164 plush rooms, with marble bathrooms and more modern art pieces throughout.

The main restaurant is a modern brasserie inspired by French-cuisine with seasonal produce, while cocktails can be enjoyed in the elegant bar. Other features include a spa with three saunas (steam, Turkish hammam and, naturally, Finnish), a fitness room, and thoroughly knowledgeable concierge on hand for all your city exploring needs.

A city of historic and modern architectural marvels, Helsinki a visually exciting place. Its position on the Gulf of Finland gives the city a relaxed, maritime feel and an abundance of green space and forests makes it wonderful for those that love the outdoors. After a fire in 1808, much of the city was rebuilt with wide avenues and neoclassical brick buildings the order of the day. You may have spotted some of its architecture doubling as Soviet Union locations in films from the 1970s and 80s.

Although in many ways Helsinki is a thoroughly modern city, there is an incredible sense of history that you can get to grips with that at its many museums. And of course, like any good Scandinavian city, the foodie scene is something to write home about. Dip in and out of its cafes and bars and set aside some time to simply sit and watch the world go by.

Discover the highlights of Helsinki on this private tour. You will be driven through the city and will see places like Senate Square which was designed in the neoclassical style by Carl Ludvig Engel in the mid-1800s. It is surrounded by the Government Palace, the main building of the University; the enormous Helsinki Cathedral and Sederholm House, the oldest stone building in Helsinki. See the Presidential Palace, the Parliament building and the modern City Hall and Finlandia Hall. You will also visit the monument to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, and tour Temppeliaukio Church, which was quarried out of the natural bedrock with a design that gives it excellent acoustics.

You will be transferred to West Harbour and then take a cruise across to Estonia to go on a privately guided walking tour inside the walls of Tallinn Old Town. Pass the central square of Raekoja Plats where The Tallinn Town Hall is located. The square hosts many concerts during the summer time. You will continue up the cobble stone streets of Old Town to the Kiek in de Kok tower. From the artillery tower, you can literally peep into the kitchens of surrounding houses. Carry on up to Toompea hill where you will have amazing views over Tallinn. At Toompea hill, you will see the Aleksander Nevski Orthodox Cathedral and Estonia's rose-coloured parliament building. At the end of the tour you will cruise back to Helsinki.

Private transfer to Helsinki airport

Flight from Helsinki to Inari, Finnish Lapland

Private transfer to your hotel in Finnish Lapland

Travel by private transfer to Inari - the heart of the Sami area in Finland. There you'll discover the unique wild nature and rich culture that make the area and its people so special. A local guide will show you around the Siida Museum which is dedicated to the Samu people, their history and traditions. The interactive exhibitions that introduce guests to culture, art and nature change regularly. The museum will also give a valuable insight into what you need to survive in the extreme Arctic weather and conditions.

Today is all about winter fun as you go snowmobiling on the frozen Lake Inari. Your private guide will teach you how to handle the powerful machines, and after a full safety briefing and driving lesson, you will head out to explore the frozen lake and its surroundings. Snowmobiling through the white winter scenery is bound to be memorable. During the day there will be a spot of ice fishing, and lunch beside an open fire.

Private transfer to your hotel near Muotka

You will be driven to a local reindeer farm where you'll meet with a local reindeer herder and his charges. You'll get to learn all about the peaceful animals and the life of a reindeer herder.

Embark on a snowmobile safari with a break for an ice fishing experience. Before the adventure begins, your guide will give you a safety briefing and driving instructions. Then you will head out on snowmobiles through the beautiful fells and wilderness. At a private lake, you'll be given all of the equipment you need for ice fishing, and with some helpful advice and pointers you can test out your new skills. After a lunch prepared by your guide you will either carry on fishing for a while, if there's time, or start to head back to Saariselkä on your snowmobiles.

Head out into a wintery forest on a sleigh pulled by reindeers. This is a traditional and peaceful way of moving through snowscapes where the only sound you will hear is the light ringing of reindeer bells. The starry northern sky is already a magical experience and hopefully you will be lucky enough to see the northern lights. Tuck into a special open-fire Lappish dinner in a kota (log hut) at a reindeer farm. Your guide will tell you about Sámi culture and reindeer herding, and a Sámi woman will sing traditional Sámi songs, “Joiku”.

Private transfer to your hotel near Rovaniemi

Mush along beautiful forest trails and enjoy lunch around a campfire on this husky safari. Each participant will have their own team of four dogs to handle. The distance driven will depend on the weather conditions and the skill of guests. However, no prior experience is needed and beginners are welcome. You will need to be able to run short distances with ease, and it's not recommended for people with back, hip or knee problems.

Private transfer to your hotel near Kemi

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the safari house where you will change into appropriate safari gear. Then your journey to the Sampo, waiting for you in the middle of the frozen Gulf of Bothnia, will begin. The Icebreaker Sampo operates on the Gulf of Bothnia outside the city of Kemi. Once you reach the spectacular vessel, you will leave your snowmobile on the ice, and climb on board the Icebreaker, to enjoy the full cruise with lunch, a tour of the vessel and swimming in survival suits. While the huge vessel breaks through the surrounding ice, you can admire the beauty of vast open ice fields all around, and the ever-changing sky above. After the swimming event, you will get off the vessel and drive the snowmobiles back to the safari house.

The Luxurious Cruise Package offers a uniquely indulgent experience. In addition to a private guide, you will have either the Captain Saloon or the Jaala Cabinet for your private use. In the Captain Saloon you may enjoy Champagne, Lappish cocktail snacks and local berry juices and sweets. In Jaala Cabinet a special menu is offered.

Private transfer to Kemi airport

We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.

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We create fully personalised trips from start to finish, working with you to pick locations, accommodation and guides that suit you.

Every trip helps support Conservation.

From in-depth private tours to restaurant reservations, we take care of every detail so you can make the most of your journey.

Finland’s Cities Lure Tourists With Promise of Sustainability

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

May 31st, 2024 at 11:01 AM EDT

Tampere is only the latest Finnish city to market itself as eco-friendly, and there's definitely something to it. But a report published by the City of Helsinki found the Finnish tourism sector's emissions are 80% higher than the EU average.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Tampere, a southern Finnish city known for its industrial skyline, 160 nearby lakes, and ample public saunas, says it aims to become the “world’s leading sustainable travel destination.”

Tampere is marketing itself as an “environmentally friendly destination” that will appeal to tourists looking to make greener holiday choices.

The announcement from Tampere is not the first from a Finnish city. The trend is likely a result of Scandinavia’s gradual rise to stardom as traditional Southern European destinations become too hot for summer travel. 

Nordic exposure

Tampere’s popularity is steadily growing, with overnight stays increasing since the pandemic. In 2023, the city registered 1.1 million arrivals, an increase of 8% from 2022.

Over the past decades, it has made progress in reducing emissions. Greenhouse gas emissions fell by 34% from 1990 levels. The city also claims that 62% of its energy production is renewable.

However, the tourism sector is still in the early phases of implementing changes.

“In the tourism sector we are still in the phase of determining what is the end goal, a.k.a when we can credibly declare that we have reached climate neutrality,” said Matti Pollari, the project manager of sustainable tourism development at Visit Tampere.

Pollari said that the key actions for reducing emissions include building tramlines, improving bus service, installing better infrastructure for walking and cycling, and adding carbon-neutral district heating.

For now, Visit Tampere is focused on reducing emissions by collaborating with major operators in the area, including amusement parks, hotels, and event venues.

A sustainable Finnish city ?

Tampere is only the latest in a line of Finnish cities hoping to entice tourists with the promise of sustainability.

Helsinki has been working hard to define its image as a sustainable capital city. It committed to promoting sustainability education among tourism providers and requiring the sector to prepare climate goals and roadmaps. Tourism sector operators are expected to transition to entirely renewable energy and invest in emissions-free transportation between now and 2026.

In 2023, the Global Destination Sustainability Index ranked Helsinki as the fourth most sustainable tourist destination in the world.

Another city just north of Helsinki, Lahti, also incorporates sustainability into its image. The city, which is known for its winter sports, stopped using coal in its main power plant and replaced it with forest residue and waste timber. It built bike lanes, repair stations, and e-bike stands and transitioned to electric buses.

In 2021, Lahti instituted an urban ski-sharing program. They installed a few ski depots and encouraged people to use skis to get from one place to another in the winter, similar to a bike-share program.

Harder than it sounds

This progress comes with a caveat, however. While in-country travel may be more sustainable, these destinations are much harder to get to than most cities in Europe.

A report published by the City of Helsinki in 2023 found that the “greenhouse gas intensity of the Finnish tourism sector is 80% higher than the EU average.” The report attributed this to flights, building energy consumption, and the long distances people have to drive to get around. 

While air travel accounts for the greatest share of tourism related emissions, at least 20% of the country’s total emissions come from transportation. Of that, 85% results from private or individual transportation. 

“Traffic emissions are a common problem for carbon neutrality; it’s not easy to find examples of cities with carbon-neutral traffic systems,” said Maija Faehnle, a senior research scientist at the Finnish Environment Institute. 

“An essential question is if the measures contribute to making sustainable mobility choices actually attractive enough and changing the culture of using private cars.”

Pollari said that Visit Tampere wants to invest in improving the “safety and attractiveness” of walking and cycling.

But Finnish experts say that moving people away from private transportation will be difficult. 

“Transport is the main challenge in this area,” said Eva Heiskanen, Professor at the Center for Consumer Society and Research at the University of Helsinki. “Cars are widely used in Finnish cities.” 

She added that while EVs are gaining ground she “greatly doubts that they would make up even the majority of the private vehicle fleet by 2030 unless drastic measures are taken.”

Regenerative Tourism: What Is It? What Are the Challenges?

Skift’s research shows that there are real developments taking place and that it is still early enough for savvy destinations and businesses to make their mark with innovative approaches to green travel under the regenerative banner.

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Tags: climate change , finland , scandinavia , tourism