places to visit in south finland

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Southern Finland and Archipelago

photo © Discovering Finland

Hämeenlinna

Uusikaupunki, lake tuusula.

By far the oldest of these, and the largest, is the old capital of Turku , where visitors will find a wealth of historical and cultural sites to explore. Chief among these are Turku Castle , the largest surviving medieval castle in Scandinavia, and the beautiful Turku Cathedral , which was consecrated in 1300. Turku is also home to the last passenger steamship operating in Finnish seas, the SS Ukkopekka , which offers daily cruises to the idyllic seaside town of Naantali . Known as the Sunshine Town, Naantali is home to Kultaranta , the summer home of the President, the palatial Louhisaari Manor, Nantaali Spa (the largest in Scandinavia) as well as the ever-popular children’s favourite Moominworld , and the Adventure Island Väski .

Further up the coast lies Uusikaupunki , its proud maritime tradition evident from the numerous maritime themed museums. Visitors can also take cruises in the archipelago to Isokari Lighthouse and Katanpää Fort Island , visit the Myllymäki Windmill Park and St. Olaf’s Church or enjoy Crusell Week, or Uusikaupunki Woodwind Festival. Just south of Turku in the Archipelago Sea lies the town of Lansi-Turunmaa , or Väståboland . A region of unparalleled natural beauty, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those who prefer such water activities as sailing, diving, kayaking and fishing, Lansi-Turunmaa also provides ample opportunities to enjoy golf, horse-riding, cycling, hiking and birdwatching, among others.

Bordered on three sides by the river Kymi , Kouvola is a rare mix of urban and rural, and of old and new. Nature lovers will enjoy the Aarnikotka Forest Nature Reserve and Arboretum Mustil a. The Verla Mill Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Kouvola House, centre for the arts in the region, is one of Finland’s most beautiful post-modern buildings. Further down the river Kymi , which is renowned for having the best salmon fishing in southern Finland, lies the picturesque coastal town of Kotka . Home to the Maritime Museum of Finland and the Maretarium , it is famous for Langinkoski, the old Imperial Fishing Lodge located upstream.

Lahti has excellent skiing facilities at Messilä Ski Resort and the famous ski jumps by the Salpausselkä Ridges, and is the only city to have hosted the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships 6 times. It is also home to Lahti Symphony Orchestra , and hosts the Lahti Sibelius Festival. Also of note are the Church of the Cross, Messilä Manor and the Musical Fountains. Further west lies Hämeenlinna , the birthplace of the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius , and the site of the medieval castle of Häme and Aulankovuori Hill, where you can enjoy breath-taking views of Lake Vanajavesi and its valley from here.

Possibly the most beautiful of all the old towns in Finland, Porvoo is the second oldest town in Finland. Situated just an hours drive from Helsinki, Porvoo is cosy and idyllic, a truly beautiful place to visit with a delightful waterfront of red ochre sheds, medieval cobblestoned streets, and the charming Old Porvoo where you’ll find the third most visited church in all of Finland, the Porvoo cathedral .

Although Southern Finland is the most densely populated region of Finland, it still manages to provide easy access to areas of great natural beauty. There are a number of excellent National Parks , such as Repovesi and Valkmusa in the Kymenlaakso region, Torronsuo and Liesjärvi in the Häme Lake Uplands, Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi near Helsinki, and those located in the Baltic Sea: the Gulf of Finland, Ekenäs Archipelago and Archipelago National Parks.

Great destinations in Southern Finland and Archipelago

Historic hattula – an excellent holiday destination, mökkihaku – rent holiday cabins all over finland, lake tuusula – beautiful lake scenery & finnish cultural heritage.

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Authored by ThePickyTraveller

Southern Finland is a unique and somewhat magical destination, made up of 40,000 islands and islets scattered over a fascinating archipelago, a vibrant European capital city, colourful Scandinavian wooden houses, and thousands of lakes and dense forests. 

It is a destination on the rise with a lot to offer, especially in terms of untouched arctic and subarctic nature. Though Southern Finland isn’t just vast expanses of pristine wilderness. “Vibrant cities offer a cutting-edge urban space with world-renowned design and music scenes. There is a spectacular ensemble of modern and stately architecture, and island restaurants” serving Nordic gastronomy.

The summer months see endless days, replaced by the northern lights during winter. Though regardless of the season, the following southern destinations should feature on your Finnish adventure this year!

A Guide to Southern Finland

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Helsinki is the most common starting point for an adventure through Southern Finland. The capital city (and one of the world’s northernmost at that), it’s not too big, but not too small.

Helsinki is at its best in summertime when the sun shines from 3 am to 11 pm and nights are almost non- existent . Big tourist draw cards include the many colourful Art Nouveau buildings in the center, the sea fortress of Suomenlinna (easily reached by a 15-minute public ferry ride), and the Design District with its many shops.

You can enjoy new Nordic cuisine in one of Helsinki’s Michelin-starred restaurants , and then climb Hotel Torni’s tower to watch an endless sunset over the city. Other highlights include the Rock Church ( Temppeliaukion Kirkko ), the Chapel of Silence (in Kamppi district), the outdoor museum of Seurasaari , and the markets that each summer fill up with fresh berries, sugar peas and mushrooms.

Founded nearly 800 years ago, Porvoo is the second oldest city in Finland, and an absolute must see. Most well known for its lovely red shore houses from the 1700’s, the city is also home to many lovely restaurants, cafés, shops and museums.

In fact, walking through Old Porvoo is like one huge museum. It has retained its traditional shape right down to the cobblestone streets. Don’t miss Porvoo Cathedral with it’s impressive bell tower. It’s been burnt down five times since the 14th century, so combines many styles of architecture and design from it’s various renovations over time.

Porvoo is easily reached from Helsinki by bus (30 minutes). During summer you can also travel via steamboat. During winter it is covered in a beautiful layer of pristine snow.

Instead of taking the freeway from Helsinki, drive the “King’s Road” to Turku. This historical and scenic road takes you through rural landscapes and small towns, and is a great way to experience a side of the country most visitors will never see.

Don’t miss Fagervik (an old mansion and its gorgeous grounds) and the ironworks of Fiskars on your way. Turku was the Finnish capital city until 1812 and has a nice European vibe. Have a snack along Aurajoki river and visit the medieval fortress Turunlinna .

Located between Turku and Pori , old Rauma is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where time has stood still. Get lost in the small cobblestone streets and marvel at the old wooden houses (the same kind as in Porvoo ). This is the largest unified wooden town in the Nordic countries.

Walking around Old Rauma is like stepping into a fairy tale: the colourful wooden houses, decorative gates, cobble stone streets and beautiful public buildings create an atmosphere of the long-forgotten past.

Even though old Rauma is bigger than old Porvoo , I tend to prefer Porvoo because of its beautiful hilly setting ( Rauma is totally flat).

Finland’s second biggest city after Helsinki, Tampere definitely deserves a day trip (less than 2 hours away from Helsinki by high-speed train).

The city is located on a scenic spot between two vast lakes, with rapids and riverbanks which cut through town (you can take peaceful rowboat trips or on cruises on larger vessels). It has a casual and down to earth atmosphere where regenerated industrial buildings house quirky museums, enticing shops, pubs, cinemas and cafe.

Have lunch at Näsinneula tower’s rotating restaurant and then stroll among old residential houses of the hilly Piispala district. Outside of the city, try to visit the iconic Iittala glass factory where you can watch real glass blowers at work (check the opening times though, as they usually close the factory for summer vacation in July).

Åland Islands

Board a big ferry-boat from Helsinki or Turku to the Åland islands and watch hundreds of islands and islets go by (most of them are totally uninhabited).  In fact, there are roughly 6,500 islands spread across the Finnish Archipelago!

There’s nothing overly spectacular to see in the Åland islands, though people travel to enjoy the fresh sea air and slow-paced way of life. You can  enjoy isla nd-hopping, boating, fishing, golfing and lots more. 

Hopping from island to island is the way to do sightseeing in Åland. Thanks to ferries and bridges, it can be done on boat, kayak, car or bicycle. And skates in the winter!  Try the pizza Åland (onions and generous chunks of salmon together with crème fraîche ) before heading back to mainland.

Yyteri  Beach

Not many people think of Finland as a beach destination. But there is a well-kept secret on the Finnish West Coast, near the town of Pori : Yyteri beach and its sand dunes.

Thanks to the remote location, this huge beach almost always remains crowd-free. Perfect for a dip in the Baltic Sea and for a picnic on a hot summer’s day. The sandy beaches are several kilometers long, with a soft, shallow bottom. A host of activities is available, such as surfing, beach volley ball and various other water sports.

Koli is Finnish wilderness at its best, and is Finland’s most well-known national landscape. Y ou need to drive many hours through Karelia’s thick forests, but it’s really worth the trip.

The region is stunning, especially in winter. It’s the southernmost location in Finland, famous for its tree-covered hill scenery. During winter you can see tykkylumi , a particular kind of snow that heavily crusts trees. 

I recommend a stay at Sokos Hotel Koli , the only accommodation on top of Mount Koli. Not only will you enjoy incredible views from your room, but also relax in a high-quality spa at the hotel’s ground floor (with beautiful views as well). The rooms themselves are average, but the amazing location and spa save it. Y ou can enjoy great hikes in summer, or skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing in winter.

In the middle of so-called “lake area” (most of the 180 000 Finnish lakes concentrate in this region), Savonlinna is mainly known for its impressive fortress of Olavinlinna built during the 15th century.

This is the oldest town in Eastern Finland, and is famous for its opera festival which takes place in the magnificent fortress each summer. Tickets are pricey and you need to book well in advance, but it’s a real one-of-a-kind experience I recommend to anyone.

Punkaharju national scenic area and two national parks offer year round opportunities for recreation in nature.

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ThePickyTraveller is always searching for the best travel opportunities, and paying attention to the small details that make an experience unique. His goal is to inform you about everything he experiences during his trips, including airlines, hotels, restaurants, and destinations themselves.

Specialized in upscale travelling, he is open to all kind of travel experiences…as long as there is access to a comfy bed and a shower in the morning! To ensure unbiased reviews, thepickytraveller remains anonymous.

Visit  www.thepickytraveller. com or connect with him on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .

Photo credits:  Featured by  Tom Mrazek . Helsinki Cathedral by  Giuseppe Milo .

27 Comments

This is the first time that I have read a post with so many Finnish town names included in it…had heard of Poorvu but none of the others. Loved it.

Thanks Punita!

We really want to visit Finland soon. Koli and the hotel you recommend sound perfect with us.

I hope you get the occasion to visit Koli soon, I really recommend it!

We haven’t been to Finland yet but for some reason, I don’t know why it never occurred to me that they have beaches too! Yyteri beach looks like a great summertime destinations. Thanks for sharing this useful guide.

Indeed. Yyteri beach is a hidden gem, and no tourist crowds there ;)

I had no idea that Finland had so many islands! I’m really wanting to make it there to see the Northern Lights one day. These photos are gorgeous and really inspiring. I love the look of the houses– they’re gorgeous!

Northern lights are amazing. Try to go as north as you can to get better chances to see them!

Finland and Sweden are the two of Scandanavian countries I have yet to get to! It looks amazing, especially Koli, that icy tundra. Is this where you can meet the Sami people? Your shot of Rauma is also beautiful and I can’t imagine Porvoo beating the aesthetics, even if its a hilly landscape!

To meet the Sami people you need to go further north to Lapland. You can have a look at my article about Lapland: http://www.thepickytraveller.com/lapland/

Finland is one place my job in event planning hasn’t taken me to yet. It looks amazing!

As soon as I saw the photo of Rauma with its cobblestone streets I knew right away that when we visit Finland it’s one of the places we definitely have to visit. The other places which piqued my interests were Åland Islands and Koli.

I definitely recommend all those places, especially Koli which is totally amazing!

Great recommendations! Porvoo seems so nice to stroll around. Did you get around by car?

You can reach Porvoo by car or by bus from Helsinki. Once there the town is small enough to discover on foot.

Finland is a destination that I have not considered. Thanks for introducing me, as you are sharing a lot of great places from your personal travel experience.

Glad we could collaborate with thepickytravller to introduce and hopefully inspire you towards Finland :)

You must be eavesdropping in on a conversation I had while in New York City this long weekend. I was literally talking just talking about Iceland, Sweden and Finland for some destination choices this year. Your guide is perfect practical and detailed. I think Finland will be next. Based on your pictures I was reminded how far north it which means snow. Great post!

Have a great time in Scandinavia Christopher :) Definitely hit up Finland if you have the chance :)

I never thought to check out Michelin restaurants but I guess Helsinki would be it. I’d love to hear more about your favorite food. Anything we shouldn’t miss? Southern Finland sounds amazing and the scenary would be the greatest draw for us. This is a great starting point for researching a trip. Thanks Megan.

You should try the dark rye bread with eggbutter (ruisleipä ja munavoi), the meat pie (lihapiirakka), Carelian pie (karjalanpiirakka), the Princess cake (prinsessakakku), the baked cheese (leipäjuusto) and in summertime sugar peas as well as all the amazing berries (strawberries, blueberries, cloudberries, lingonberries…).

I’m here in Helsinki right now. I forget the name, but the island off the coast that you can take a short 10 minute ferry ride to is well worth it. A dazzling spot both for the nature and for the calm.

Yes, Suomenlinna definitely is one of Helsinki’s highlights!

Great set of photos! How much was all the expenses that you’ve made in regards to traveling to Finland? Been planning a trip there ever since. Safe travel always!!

Thanks Tristan. It depends where you are travelling from :) Helsinki has very good connections to major European hubs, with competitive airfares (Norwegian is my favourite airline for short- and medium-haul flights at the moment, with great fares, free wi-fi onboard and a constantly expanding route network). The price range would usually be 100 to 200 euros for a round-trip ticket. For direct long-haul flights choices are more limited and mainly operated by the national carrier Finnair, but prices tend to be more affordable with a connection (think 500+ euros in economy class for a round-trip ticket). A year ago Qatar Airways started operating between Helsinki and Doha, thus enhancing route choices with great fares (especially to Asia). Good connections via Istanbul also, with Turkish Airlines. Once in Finland I recommend to rent a car, especially if you want to reach more remote destinations like Koli or Yyteri. If you stick to major cities, there are good connections by bus and by train. The train tends to be more expensive, and competition between bus companies is fierce (resulting in very low prices: with a company named Onnibus you can score tickets for as low as 1 euro!). For other expenses, keep in mind the cost of living in Finland is high (like in all Northern countries…). You won’t find a decent hotel for under 100 euros per night during high season and eating at restaurants is very costly compared to Central Europe… All in all transportation is where you can save with careful organization, food and accommodation is where you should be prepared to splurge.

Hi! I’m planning a trip for my family and I’ve chosen Finland in the end of April! My wife saw an article about fairytale glass igloo and that became her total passion. She is sooooo impatient to witness Aurora through the glass ceiling! But! there is no info about the location of such igloos, so i wonder if it’s situated in the south of Finland, cause your post about it enchanted me more that just a cool but very very expensive accomodation,. i’d like to hike and to see as much as I can. Åland Islands are charming! Any ideas about the accommodation there? By the way, I checked the weather and it told me the spring might come as soon as we get there. Right?

Hi Julian, thanks for reaching out. For the glass igloos check out Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort East Village. In northern Lapland the lights shine about every other clear night between September and March, so April might be leaving it a little bit late if you want to see the Northern lights – if you’re flexible to bring your trip forward a little that would give you a better chance of seeing them. Yes, spring begins in April.

http://www.kakslauttanen.fi/ is the website for the igloo accommodation (in the North).

For the Aland Islands, this website has fabulous accommodation recommendations, click on the tab for “Stay” and you’ll have options for hotels, cottages, b&b’s, campsites – it’s a very comprehensive resource for informtaion: http://www.visitaland.com/en/

Hope that helps! Have a fabulous trip :)

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I am Megan Jerrard, professional travel blogger/journalist with a focus on adventure, discovery, immersion and inspiring you to explore!

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• Southern Finland

The Top 20 Attractions in Southern Finland

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Hiking Highlight

The Helsinki Cathedral, built in the classicist style, rises above the Senate Square on a hill that can be reached by granite stairs. It radiates majestic shine in the sunlight.

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In the old center of Helsinki is the central Senate Square, around which the cathedral and numerous beautiful buildings are grouped

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Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

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The Uspenski Cathedral, a very large Orthodox church, was built on a large boulder between the harbor basins.

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The small historic market hall is located at the port of Helsinki. The excursion boats to the archipelago depart nearby.

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The Presidential Palace of the Finnish President is located directly on the harbor promenade next to the town hall and the highest court.

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Costs entry, but it is asked again and again to silence and made sure that headgear be removed. Otherwise, it is a church and I just realize that churches are … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Oodi - Helsinki Central Library

A great extravagant building that is freely accessible and totally surprising. You can play computer games indoors, surf the Internet, drink coffee, read books / magazines, play with children, and … read more

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The central starting point for train journeys through Finland is Helsinki Central Station. The stone tower of the classicist building in Helsinki is striking.

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We had a very nice sunny day and looked at everything in peace. The buildings at the pier, the small military museum, the cannons and finally we sat on the … read more

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The Helsinki University Library is right next to Senate Square and the Cathedral

Explore the most popular Tours in Southern Finland

Hiking in Southern Finland

Road Cycling Routes in Southern Finland

Cycling in Southern Finland

Running Trails in Southern Finland

MTB Trails in Southern Finland

Gravel biking in Southern Finland

Discover the most popular attractions in Southern Finland

Lakes in Southern Finland

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Northern Finland
• Western Finland
• Eastern Finland
• Åland Islands

Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

11 of the best places to see on a quick finland road trip.

1. Visit Kotka on the Gulf of Finland

Things to do in kotka, kotka sculpture promenade.

The Maritime Museum of Kotka

Sapokan Vesipuisto

Kotka's Stunning Sunsets

Places to Eat in and Around Kotka

Koti pizza - try a berlesconi.

Vausti Ravintola

Sam's Pub in Karhula

2. Road Trip to Lappeenranta

Craft beer at teerenpeli.

Harborside Walks

Lappenranta Fortress

3. Finland's Oddest Roadside Attraction: Parikkala Sculpture Park 

4. Eastern Finland's Siikalahti Nature Reserve

5. Stop in Scenic Savonlinna

Olavinlinna castle.

Savonlinna Provincial Museum

Paistetut Muikut at Kalastajan Koju

6. Kenkävero at Mikkeli

7. Rural Finland Road Trip Rest Stops

8. Coffee and a Riverside Walk near Kouvola

Sisustus-Kahvila Kaarnasydän

SIDEWALK SAFARI SPOTLIGHT: Interested in other Nordic travel ideas? Why not consider a Norway road trip covering things to do in Bergen , Alesund , Trondheim , and Oslo ? You'll find vibrant cities and of course world class scenery.

Hamina's concentric circles.

Hamina Bastion

Hamina's Birdwatching Wetlands (Beware of Mosquitos)

10. Passing Through Porvoo

Craft beer at porvoon paahtimo.

Porvoo Cathedral

World Class Curry at Nepalilainen Ravintola Pokhara

Turku Market Hall

Turku Cathedral

Aboa Vetus and Ars Nova

Good Eats at Foija Restaurant and Wine Bar

Craft Beer at Panimoravintola Koulu

Turku Castle

Fibonacci Smokestack

Return Drive to Helsinki Airport

Map of our self-drive road trip itinerary in southern finland.

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Southern Finland

• 3 Other destinations
• 4 Understand
• 6.1 By airplane
• 6.2 By ferry
• 6.3 By train and bus
• 6.4 By yacht
• 7.1 By taxi
• 7.2 By boat
• 7.3 By bike
• 12 Stay safe

Southern Finland ( Etelä-Suomi , Södra Finland ) lies by the coast of the Gulf of Finland, stretching into the lakeland of interior Finland . It is the most populous part of the country, including the urban sprawl around Helsinki .

• 60.170833 24.9375 1 Helsinki (Helsingfors) and its neighbours Espoo (Esbo), Kauniainen (Grankulla) and Vantaa (Vanda)
• 59.823611 22.968056 2 Hanko (Hangö) is a recurring favourite with domestic holiday makers due to its nice beaches, climate and traveller-geared services.
• 60.630556 24.859722 3 Hyvinkää (Hyvinge), with the Finnish Railway museum
• 60.994444 24.466667 4 Hämeenlinna (Tavastehus), has a medieval castle
• 60.466667 26.945833 5 Kotka , a port town on the road to Russia, with the Gulf of Finland National Park
• 60.980381 25.654988 6 Lahti (Lahtis), a fairly grim industrial town
• 61.058333 28.186111 7 Lappeenranta (Villmanstrand), a port town by the lake Saimaa
• 60.393056 25.663889 8 Porvoo (Borgå), a city with a very nice old town
• 59.975 23.436111 9 Raseborg contains the picturesque towns of Karis (Karjaa) and Ekenäs (Tammisaari) and also the vibrant village of Fiskars .

Other destinations

• 60.316667 24.466667 4 Nuuksio National Park
• 60.315 25.218889 6 Sipoonkorpi National Park

The Uusimaa coast is one of the regions with a big Swedish population. While most of the inland is monolingually Finnish, Swedish speakers are the majority or a big minority in many coastal towns and in much of the countryside near the coast.

Most Finns under the age of 50 speak at least basic and often fluent English, and some tourist-oriented services, especially in the capital region, are available in a range of other languages too. Russian is spoken at many businesses with significant Russian clientèle, mostly by the border and in Helsinki.

By airplane

Helsinki is the most important gateway both to Southern Finland and the rest of the country. There are flights from most large European cities and some destinations in Asia and North America by air. Also Lappeenranta in the east of Southern Finland has an airport, to where Ryanair flies from continental Europe.

Ferries from Stockholm, Travemünde, Tallinn and St.Petersburg and international train and bus connections from Russia. Most cities in Finland have a direct train or bus to Helsinki.

By train and bus

Trains and buses from elsewhere in the country towards Helsinki also stop along the way in places e.g. Hämeenlinna, Lahti and Kouvola, but if you are coming from the other direction you very likely need to transfer in Helsinki.

The coast is easily reachable from anywhere, and a lovely boating destination. As the region borders the Finnish Lakeland , several inland waterways connect from the north to lakes in the region. Saimaa , and thereby much of South Karelia, is reachable also from the sea, by the Saimaa Canal .

For entry from the Archipelago Sea , see Hanko to Uusikaupunki by boat . The leg from the Archipelago Sea to Helsinki is busy, because of boaters from the metropolitan area spending their holidays off Turku.

Between cities and major towns you can use trains ( VR ), while all towns are served by coaches (see timetables at Matkahuolto ). For villages not on the main roads you may have to find special arrangements or use taxis.

Hitchhiking is uncommon but possible; be aware that some roads have very little traffic. If you chose smaller country roads, cycling is a possibility and you can camp wild according to the right to access (see that article).

Google Maps includes timetables of trains, long distance buses and local transport of many cities and towns. Other useful route planners are Matka.fi [dead link] for trains and local buses and Matkahuolto Reittiopas for regional buses.

• Smartphone apps: Valopilkku, 02 Taksi, Menevä

The coastal archipelagos and the lakes are very popular boating destinations, and the coast and interconnected lakes lend themselves also to getting around – by cruise, by boat or by canoe. Of the lakes, the Saimaa waterway system is reachable from the sea by the Saimaa Canal , and large enough for any ordinary yacht.

Several towns in the eastern part of the region (Hamina, Imatra, Kotka, Kouvola, Lappeenranta, Porvoo) use the Donkey Republic bike sharing app and bluetooth, Internet and GPS of your phone. As a member, in Finland for €9 or €18/month, borrowing a bike for less than an 1 hr or 12 hr, respectively, is free. Others pay €1/15 min, €1.50/hr, €4/5 hr, €12/24 hr. Membership must be registered according to your (read: your card's) home country; most countries in western Europe have the system (and USA: one town).

• Suomenlinna fortress on an island just outside Helsinki .
• The early 19th century architecture in Central Helsinki .
• The old town of Finland's second oldest city, Porvoo .
• Bengtskär lighthouse by boat from Hanko .
• Imatra rapids , the first major tourist attraction in Finland (now free-flowing occasionally).
• Häme Castle in Hämeenlinna and Raseborg Castle in Snappertuna .
• Verla Groundwood and Board Mill in Jaala, Kouvola ; a former paper factory that now is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Finnish Aviation Museum in Vantaa .
• The Radio Hill in Lahti with its long wave masts from the 1920s.

• Have a fun day at the amusement parks Linnanmäki in Helsinki , Tykkimäki in Kouvola and Puuhamaa in Janakkala , or at the Serena Water Park in Espoo .
• Cruise along Saimaa Canal from Lappeenranta .
• Enjoy a concert in the Sibelius hall in Lahti .
• Travel from Helsinki to Porvoo in an old coastal steamer or from Kerava to Porvoo in a 1960s lättähattu train.
• Visit the limestone cave of Torhola in Lohja .
• Hike along the Salpa trail in Kymenlaakso .
• Shop until you drop at Itis , the largest shopping centre in Northern Europe.
• Walk around in the Aulanko nature park in Hämeenlinna .
• Drive along the King's road , by bike or car.

Southern Finland is well connected to the rest of the country by train, bus or plane and you can drive from Helsinki to most parts of Finland in one day. Of course you can also make a daytrip from Helsinki to Tallinn by ferry.

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Things to Do

Experience the colourful splendour of award-winning Kotka city parks , learn about the thrilling history of the East Coast of Finland at the Maritime Centre Vellamo , and lose yourself in the unique ambience of streets and alleys lined with wooden houses in Hamina ’s circular city centre.

Enjoy the unique archipelago of the Eastern Gulf of Finland is by renting a cottage or going on a boat trip . Go fishing, kayaking or white-water rafting on the mighty Kymi River that flows from the lakes in Middle Finland to the sea at the Eastern Gulf of Finland with an amazing web of streams, forks and estuaries.

In Valkmusa National Park you will feel like you have just arrived in the wilderness of Lapland. Hike on the Salpa Line that used to be the defence line in the second world war. In the majestical forests you will unwind and enjoy nature.

Breathtaking Archipelago of Eastern Gulf of Finland

Take an adventure in the exciting Eastern Gulf of Finland amidst the fresh sea breezes, rugged cliffs and the sea, bluer than blue. Here the infinite horizon whispers stories of waves lapping on distant shores of mysterious islands.

Which island will you choose to visit? Ulko-Tammio , Rankki , Haapasaari , or Svartholma ? Don’t decide just yet. You just might want to see them all.

The Park Capital of Finland

Finland’s park capital Kotka invites you to fall in love with azaleas, rhododendrons, peonies, ponds and a delightful water fall. Grab your city bike and spend a wonderful day on a park tour .

The city of Kotka is situated on an island, and you can easily spend a day admiring its parks, sitting in cafés by the sea or at the market square. You will find more parks outside the Kotkansaari Island if you follow the mighty Kymi River . For that though, you will need another day, so book a place to stay as well!

Finland in Miniature - Including Lapland-Like Wetlands!

On the East Coast you will find Finland in miniature. You can spend a day on a beach in the archipelago, go hiking in pine and spruce forests, kayaking or white-water rafting on Kymi River or take a dip in your choice of a hundred lakes.

For Southern Finland, the rarest sight though is the Lapland-like mire, Valkmusa National Park, just a short drive outside Kotka. The largest and most diverse swamp area of Southern Coastal Finland with its rare birds and butterflies offers a perfect day-hike for anyone interested in the great outdoors. If you’re lucky, you might spot a crane or an osprey!

Bike Around the East Coast

Do you prefer biking at rapids, fortresses or the seaside? Or would you be interested in riding your bike to see some amazing architecture? Let our many cycling routes lead you through countryside, archipelago, rapids, forest roads and historical sights.

Plan your multi-day cycling tour. Book accommodation, take your pedalling holiday onto a sea cruise and refuel in local cafes and restaurants. You can easily get to the routes of the East Coast from the capital region or rent equipment from local businesses.

Sauna Belongs to the Everyday Life of the Finns

To visit Finland without going to sauna is like going to Italy and not eat pizza. There are about three million saunas in Finland that has six million inhabitants. For a nation that has been declared the happiest in the world for six times, we suspect sauna alongside with our clean nature play a significant role. Come and try it yourself!

Fateful Svensksund

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Explore the Finnish Boat Building Tradition

Next to the Maritime Centre Vellamo, in the Kotka Main Harbour on Tornatorintie road, is a building in the shape of an overturned boat. The dozen boatwrights working there continue the ancient handicraft traditions of Kymenlaakso area. From the public loft, visitors can watch them work on weekdays between 8am and 4pm. There is no entrance fee. In winter, the entrance hall houses a boat exhibition.

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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.

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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.

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The 15 best things to do in Finland

Nov 14, 2023 • 11 min read

From Helsinki to Lapland, here are the very best things to do in Finland © Chalermkiat Seedokmai

You’ll never see it all in one trip – which is just as well as Finland has got enough to hook you for a lifetime.

Whether it’s the sorcery of the northern lights in the frosty wilds of Lapland, bear watching in the remote, silent forests of the east, cloudberry foraging as the midnight sun blazes, or paddling from lake to lake with nothing but the seals and sea eagles for company in Finnish Lakeland, Finland will cast a spell over you.

But don’t take our word for it: in this country of extremes and extreme otherness, every moment and memory is wholly unique. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Finland to get you started. 

1. See the northern lights in Lapland

Holding your breath as the aurora borealis swoops and sways in the frozen Arctic night sky is an experience not quite of this world. No photo gets even close to conveying the moment when the heavens light up, the sky shifts in the most unsettling way, and green rays float down like strobe lights, as if the Nordic gods are having a wild party up above.

Finnish Lapland is one of the best places on earth to observe the electrifying, shape-shifting phenomenon that the Finns call revontulet , or fox fires – myth has it they were created when an Arctic fox running through the snow sent sparks flying into the sky. The Sámi have deep respect for the northern lights and remain silent in their presence, as some believe they are the dancing spirits of their ancestors. 

Rovaniemi makes a cracking first base for heading out on a tour to hunt down the northern lights. Or go further north still to the snowy fells of Saariselkä , Harriniva, Levi, or Utsjoki, where the odds of seeing the lights from September to April are sky high .

2. Feel festive in Lapland's Rovaniemi

Wish it could be Christmas every day? You’re going to love Rovaniemi, where you can cuddle up to the big, jolly, red-robed, chimney-diving dude 365 days a year. You are forever five years old as you whisper your wish list into Santa’s ear in his grotto at the Santa Claus Village , right atop the Arctic Circle. When you’re done, post letters with the Arctic Circle stamp at the post office or jump on a reindeer-driven sleigh.

And if you’re still fizzing with festive enthusiasm, nip across to the Santapark to hang out with toy-making, gingerbread-baking elves, hop on twinkly rides, chill at the ice bar, and meet – err – the other real Santa…  

3. Forage for cloudberries in Ranua

The mosquitoes are after blood, and the swamps want to suck you down, but who gives a damn: with a basket, a netted hat, a forager’s eye, and mile after shimmering mile of forest and lake ahead, you feel nothing but at one with nature joy as you venture into the remote wilds in search of cloudberries. And where better to find "Lappish gold" than in Ranua, the little town just south of the Arctic Circle that bills itself as Finland’s cloudberry capital?

For a few brief weeks in late July and early August, you can channel your inner hunter-gatherer and come here to pick the tart, creamy, amber-gold berries, born of winter snows, which drive Finns crazy for their taste and super-food potency. But it isn’t just about the berries – walking alone in the cottongrass-stippled swamps, feeling the space and silence, having the time to think – this is Finnish happiness. Visit Ranua can sort you out with foraging maps and apps and help arrange guides.

4. Dive in at the sauna deep end

If you’ve never done it before, you might find the idea of stripping naked in front of a bunch of sweaty strangers in a little wooden cabin unnerving, but relax: this is Finland. Wholeheartedly embracing the sauna experience is your fast track to the country’s steam-loving soul. Leave your modesty in the changing room, bring a towel and an open mind, and feel the stress slip away as water hisses on the stove, clouds of löyly (vapor) rise, and the temperature reaches a toasty 80°C (176°F). Round out by lightly whipping yourself with a circulation-boosting vasta (birch whisk), jumping in an ice hole, and drinking a beer, and you’ve reached peak Finnishness.

Saunas are everywhere in Finland, but ones you’ll never forget include the world’s biggest underground smoke sauna, Herrankukkaro (Mama's Pocket), on an island just south of Turku, rustic lakefront Jätkänkämppä in Kuopio, and Finland’s oldest working sauna, Rajaportin in Tampere . 

5. Hit the water in Finnish Lakeland

All is green and blue as far as the eye can see in Finnish Lakeland in the country’s east. Here you can’t pick a map up without sploshing straight into the water. The exact number of lakes is uncertain, but estimates weigh in at 55,000. Days here have their own mellow rhythm and simplicity that comes with the rising and setting of the sun over the forest and mirror-like lake.

For a true sense of back-to-nature freedom, nothing beats grabbing a paddle and taking to the waters in a kayak or canoe. With the world’s longest lake coastline, forest-blanketed Lake Saimaa  is a fabulous base to rent a canoe or join a guided tour. As you weave in and out of a maze of deserted islands, inlets, and bays, you might get lucky and spot the rare Saimaa ringed seal (endemic to this region), otters, reindeer, and elk. Nights are spent by the crackle of a campfire under a canopy of stars. Bliss. 

6. Rewind to medieval times in Old Rauma

With its lopsided wooden buildings in ice-cream pastels, flower boxes, and cobbles, UNESCO World Heritage Old Rauma is a pleasure to explore on foot. The largest wooden medieval old town in the Nordic countries might look like a theater set, but it’s very much a thriving little community, with its cluster of low-key cafes, shops, museums, and artisans’ workshops. Rauman giäl, an old sailor’s dialect, is still spoken here.

The Rauma Museum takes you back to the roots, with snapshots of local history and insights into craft traditions. Stay the night at Hotelli Vanha Rauma , lodged in a warehouse in the old fish market, to go even deeper.

7. Go deep into the wild in Urho Kekkonen National Park

This is the big one. With its off-the-map location and off-the-charts beauty, Urho Kekkonen National Park in Lapland is Finland’s largest national park, covering a whopping 2550 sq km (1548 sq miles) of forest and fell as it ripples east of Saariselkä to the Russian border. If you’re into long-distance hiking or cross-country skiing, it doesn’t get better than here, where you can pad for miles in utter solitude through old-growth forests of pine, spruce, and birch, crossing fast-flowing brooks and clambering up fells of myth, including 486m (1594ft) Korvatunturi, the spiritual home of Santa.

The wildlife is as phenomenal as you might expect. While the big predators (bears, wolverines, wolves, and lynx) keep a low profile, you can expect to see reindeer, moose, and plenty of birdlife, including eagles. But just as special is the kind of silence you only find this far north. Bring a backpack and sleep in a hiker’s hut or wild camp under the midnight sun.

8. Spend a very cool night in an igloo or snow hotel

If ever you’ve nurtured a dream of snuggling down on a reindeer hide in an igloo as the flakes fall thick and fast or the northern lights come out to play, Lapland delivers with its flurry of snow hotels and glass-roofed domes. The temperatures plummet well below zero, but don’t worry – expedition-grade sleeping bags or thermal duvets keep you toasty, and at the luxe end of the spectrum, there are saunas, hot tubs, and ice bars serving hot grog to keep you warm.  

Frosty favorites where you can sleep on an artistically made bed of ice include the Lumihotelli in Kemi and the lakefront Arctic Snow Hotel in Rovaniemi. If you fancy gazing at the northern lights from your bed instead, try the laser-heated, glass-roofed cabins at Wilderness Hotel Inari or the aurora bubbles at Wilderness Hotel Nellim .  

9. Delve into Helsinki’s design scene

Finland moves to an alternative beat when it comes to design, and in Helsinki you can dive in at the deep end. Swinging from outrageously bold to slick and functional in the classic Scandi mold, the capital harbors a line-up of excellent design shops. Pin down the best with a wander in the Punavuori backstreets in the heart of its Design District . If 20th-century design rocks your boat, you can easily spend an entire morning absorbed in prints that pop at Marimekko , modernist lines at Artek , and eye-catching glassware at Iittala . 

For more insight into the origins of Finnish design and its cutting-edge, visit the Design Museum ; the website has details of its free guided tours in English.  

10. Cycle in the Åland Islands

Sprinkled like stepping stones off the country’s southwest tip, the self-governing Åland Islands speak Swedish yet are technically Finnish. And they are beautiful. These 6700 islands – many of them just nameless specks of pink granite – have an almost dreamlike quality, with painterly light, reflecting waters, forests, and blonde-sand beaches easing ever so gently into the Baltic. Cycling is the way to go, with ferries hopping between islands and flat trails that make pedaling a breeze, zipping from castle to orchard, medieval church to windmill. Rent your wheels in the capital, Mariehamn , and set off in spring or autumn when the islands are at their quiet best. 

11. Go Moomin crazy

Go on, admit it: you came to Finland for the Moomins. You are not alone. Just about everyone has a secret soft spot for the weird-looking, cute white hippo-like characters (well, apparently they are actually large-snouted trolls…) that are so magically brought to life in Tove Jansson’s tales.

Join the kids in the Moomin house, cave, workshop, and nature trail at Muumimaailma (Moomin World), which sits on its own island just off the coast of Turku . Or for more of a cultural Moomin experience, head north to the imaginatively thought-out Moomin Museum in Tampere , which is stuffed with original illustrations and dioramas. 

12. Play in the snow in Lapland

Lapland in the deep freeze of winter is full-on Narnia, with its snow-blanketed fells, tundra, and forests. Some might be content to hibernate in a little cabin and watch the flakes flutter, but chances are you’ll be itching to get out and play. The options are boundless, whether you want to dogsled, snowmobile, cross-country ski, snowshoe into the icy wilds, or dash off on a reindeer-driven sleigh as the aurora flickers overhead. Levi and Ylläs come tops for crowd-free skiing and perfect powder. Or for the whole snow fun shebang, try Rovaniemi , Inari , and, farther north still , Utsjoki.

If that’s not quite intrepid enough, there’s always aurora ice floating in Rovaniemi. Kitted out in an Arctic survival suit, you’ll float on a frozen lake, peering up at the northern lights. It’s mad and magical. 

13. Shop at the local food markets

If you want to see Finnish food in all its wild, wonderful bounty, get yourself over to the nearest kauppahalli (covered market). Helsinki’s glorious late 19th-century market hall is a fantastic place to stock up on everything from reindeer steaks to forest berries and herbs, artisan cheeses, and ham slowly roasted over alder logs in a traditional smoke sauna. You’ll also find a tempting array of cafes, where you can grab a coffee and korvapuusti (cinnamon bun), or a lunch special like cured salmon on homemade rye bread. Try the harbor front Story for brunch under soaring arches.

The historic covered markets in Tampere and Turku are equally great for picnic fixings or lunch on the hoof. In summer, the action spills outside to the kauppatori (market square), where stalls are laden with everything from wild mushrooms to golden cloudberries.

14. Tune into Sámi culture

It’s a much-cited fact that Lapland’s Sámi people have 200 words to describe snow, but more incredible is the 1000 words they have for reindeer. The reindeer have been their lifeblood for many centuries in the stark, dark, bitterly cold north. Spending time among the Sámi gives an astonishing insight into their nature-bound, season-driven way of life, whether it’s listening to the haunting sound of the joik (rhythmic poem) around a hissing campfire in a lavvu tent, or meeting reindeer under the flash of the northern lights.

The Sámi capital, Inari , is a great starting point. Here you can get the inside scoop on Sámi life, from their semi-nomadic past to modern times at the cutting-edge Siida museum, and immerse yourself in the wilderness of nearby Lemmenjoki National Park .

15. Hang out with brown bears

Watching a bear emerge from the dense forests of Russia to lollop across the swamps in search of a midnight snack is one of those magic moments you’ll be raving about forever more. Out on a limb and properly immersed in the wooded wilderness, Lentiira on the Finnish–Russian border is one of Europe’s most outstanding places to observe brown bears in their natural environment. Though there are never any guarantees, the odds are brilliant during the bear-watching season (April to October) at the conservation-focused  Wild Brown Bear Centre. Every season works its charm – from the cubs and snows of spring to the never-dying light of midsummer and richly colored foliage of fall.

The bears here are shy but harmless. Keep quiet in your hide or – for greater privacy – a family-sized luxury lodge, and you’ll see plenty. Besides bears, you might also spot wolverines, wolves, and elk if you’re lucky.

This article was first published May 25, 2022 and updated Nov 14, 2023.

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Helsinki and Southern Finland – What to See in Finland’s Capital?

Helsinki is the most popular travel destination in Finland for a good reason. The capital of Finland has great museums, bustling restaurant scene, festivals and concerts – but like everywhere else in Finland, nature is close by. Take a bus and you’ll be in a national park in just one hour!

Helsinki has a population of about 650,000, and together with the neighboring cities (Espoo and Vantaa) the metropolitan area has 1.2 million inhabitants. Helsinki is therefore not a huge metropolis, but rather a compact holiday destination: the center and its neighboring parts of the city can be reached on foot, public transport is excellent, and there are many superb day trip destinations nearby. The most popular are the postcard-beautiful small town of Porvoo, the artists’ and craftsmen’s Fiskars, and the Nuuksio National Park, all of which can be reached by bus.

What to see in Helsinki?

Founded in 1550, Helsinki is not as historic a place as the medieval towns of Central Europe. Not even a castle can be found in Helsinki – the title of the best historical attraction is taken by the Suomenlinna sea fortress , which is Finland’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. Suomenlinna, located on an island off Helsinki, is a very popular place to visit, especially on beautiful summer days. Be sure to pack lunch for a picnic! If you want to spend a night, Hostel Suomenlinna has dorm bed and double rooms.

The ferry to Suomenlinna leaves from the Market Square , where traditional food and souvenirs are sold to tourists. One hundred meters away you will find the historic central square, Senate Square , surrounded by heritage buildings such as the University’s main building, the Government Palace and the dazzling white Helsinki Cathedral .

Another church with a more interesting architecture can be found behind the Parliament House. Temppeliaukio Church is built inside the granite rock, as its English nickname Rock Church suggests. The plain altar of the church is a great example of the modest style of Evangelical Lutheranism.

Helsinki has numerous Art Nouveau-style buildings built in the early 20th century. The most beautiful are the main railway station and Kallio Church.

The latest gems of architecture are the central library Oodi and the sauna restaurant Löyly , which has won praise in international architectural magazines.

The best museums in Helsinki are the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and the Amos Anderson Museum , both located right in the city center. 

Helsinki has a wide range of events from major music festivals to informal street parties. Recommended events are Restaurant Day (which originated in Helsinki), and Night of Arts, the culmination of Helsinki Festival. Helsinki also hosts many large music festivals, such as Flow Festival (for hipsters), Tuska Open Air (for metal fans) and World Village (world music).

In Finland, the sauna is also part of urban culture. Traditional sauna can be enjoyed at Kotiharju Sauna and Arla Sauna in Kallio district. Trendy sauna experiences are offered by Löyly and Allas Sea Pool in southern Helsinki.

Read more: Sauna in Finland – the Ultimate Guide to Finnish Sauna Culture

Recommended attractions for families with children are (in addition to Suomenlinna) Linnanmäki Amusement Park (highlighted by a wooden roller coaster built in 1952), Korkeasaari Zoo , and Heureka Science Center located north of Helsinki.

Best outdoor attractions in Helsinki

The highlight of Helsinki’s nature is the archipelago, which can be explored by kayaking or traveling by scheduled boats that take you to Vallisaari , Vartiosaari and Pihlajasaari islands – all great choices for a picnic!

Of course, the Baltic Sea’s scenery can also be enjoyed from the mainland. A 130-kilometer-long public beach route runs along the shores of Helsinki, where you can walk or cycle. One of the most popular islands is Lammassaari , which can be reached by walking along duckboards.

The archipelago of Eastern Helsinki is a world-class kayaking destination. Natura Viva is a local company that rents canoes, kayaks and SUP boards, and organizes daily guided kayak trips. Natura Viva also has canoe rental points in Nuuksio and Teijo National Parks.

Helsinki Central Park , 7 square kilometers in size, gives you a pretty good idea of what ​​the Finnish forest looks like. You can’t get lost in Central Park (at least for a long time), but even there you can walk your own paths in the shade of tall trees. With luck, you can catch a glimpse of the endangered flying squirrel in Central Park.

Bird watchers should climb the Viikki bird towers rising on the shores of the Vanhankaupunginlahti bay. A few kilometers of reedbed shores is a nature reserve where you can also spot roe deer.

The most popular urban fishing spot in Helsinki is the large pool in Vantaanjoki estuary.

Best national parks in Southern Finland

Nuuksio is the most visited national park in Southern Finland. What makes the place so popular is the location: Nuuksio is right next to the Helsinki metropolitan area – you can get there by public bus! The Nuuksio lake plateau is an excellent example of Finnish nature: small lakes, high cliffs and dense forest. The park has many marked trails and campfire sites where you can stop for a picnic. Like in all national parks in Finland, services like firewood and restrooms are completely free or charge.

A calmer alternative to super-popular Nuuksio is Sipoonkorpi National Park , which is just as close to Helsinki and can also be reached by public transport. Sipoonkorpi, dominated by gloomy spruce forests, is especially popular with mushroom pickers in August-September. 

If you’re on the go with a rental car, explore Liesjärvi and Torronsuo National Parks , 100 kilometers from Helsinki, or Porkkala peninsula, which is a favourite for birdwatchers and fishermen.

The best national park in Southern Finland is Repovesi , located about 200 kilometers from Helsinki. Repovesi is the perfect destination for a one-night camping trip. On the way to Repovesi you should visit the nearby Verla Factory Museum , which is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Finland.

Read more: National Parks in Finland – 10 Best Places for Hiking and Camping

Best day trips from Helsinki

Porvoo is a small coastal town loved by Helsinki residents. It’s a romantic day trip destination where you can enjoy the atmosphere of a historical wooden centre, good restaurants and lovely boutique hotels such as Pariisin Ville . Porvoo can be easily reached by bus, but a more adventurous way is to travel in one direction on a boat. The cruise from Helsinki to Porvoo goes through the beautiful archipelago scenery and takes 3.5 hours.

Ainola , the home museum of Finland’s most famous composer, Jean Sibelius, is located on the shores of Lake Tuusulanjärvi. The Art Nouveau-style house was completed in 1904 and Sibelius lived there for the rest of his life, for more than 50 years. In Ainola, Sibelius found the peace of mind he longed for, and many of his finest compositions were created in this handsome villa.

Fiskars Village is a beautiful and vibrant historic ironworks area. Today the old factory buildings serve as workshops, boutiques and restaurants. In Fiskars, you can stay at Hotel Tegel , a wonderfully historic ironworks building. There’s a tourist bus from Kiasma Museum to Fiskars in July-August.

Finland’s second largest city, Tampere , and Finland’s oldest city, Turku , are only a couple of hours by train from Helsinki. Instead of a day trip, it’s worth spending at least one night in them, as both have plenty to see and do.

One of the best day trips from Helsinki is the capital of Estonia, Tallinn . A day cruise lasts from morning to evening – Tallinn’s lovely Old Town can be visited for a few hours – and costs only twenty euros.

Best time to visit Helsinki

Unlike in Lapland, where the best time to visit is from February to April, the winter in Southern Finland is nowadays often wet, dark and snowless. The best time to visit Helsinki is definitely the summer season from May to September.

The onset of spring is at its most beautiful in May. It is worth noting that during Midsummer and the July holiday season, Helsinki can be a ghostly deserted place – in early summer it‘s best to follow the example of the Finns and head to Turku Archipelago or Lakelands region for some quality time at a summer cottage.

Read more: Cottages in Finland

The best month to visit Helsinki is August. The weather is usually beautiful and often very warm, and there are various festivals and cultural events, such as the Helsinki Festival in the end of August and early September.

September, too, is an excellent time to visit Helsinki and other parts of Southern Finland.

How do you travel from Helsinki to other parts of Finland?

Helsinki is a great starting point for a holiday In Finland, as public transport efficiently takes you anywhere in the country. Turku and Tampere can be reached by train or bus. Rovaniemi , which awaits in Lapland a thousand kilometers away, can be reached by night train or plane.

Helsinki is also a port for cruise ships. Several shipping companies take passengers every day to Stockholm, Tallinn and even St. Petersburg, Russia.

By a rental car it’s easy to reach the best road trip routes in Finland .

Check out the best offers for car rental in Finland: Rentalcars.com

Map of Finland’s best travel attractions

The map below shows the best tourist sights, museums, family attractions, hiking trails, outdoor activities, wildlife safaris and ski resorts of Finland.

Did you like this article? If you’re planning a trip to Finland, please book your hotel or rent a cabin or rental car by clicking on our affiliate links. We get a small commission, but you don’t pay any extra. Thanks for your support!

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Archipelago trail – drive or cycle around the finnish archipelago, lapland – epic outdoor experiences in northern finland, lapland in winter – best winter activities, rovaniemi – gateway to finnish lapland, wild east – kainuu and north karelia regions of eastern finland, leave a reply.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Finland

Written by Jim O'Donnell and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 26, 2022

From the vibrant art-filled cities of Helsinki and Turku to the depths of the boreal forests and the thinly inhabited outer archipelago, Finland offers a wealth of attractions and beautiful places to visit.

It's also a relatively unknown corner of Europe, likely because it is so far from the mainstream tourist routes, but the country's many cultural and historical sites add to the unspoiled natural surroundings to make it an ideal destination.

Finland's lakes, fells, rivers, and vast wild areas, along with the certainty of snow in the winter make it a Nordic playground for both winter and summer activities.

Helsinki is the main point of entry for most visitors to Finland. The busy Baltic port is where you'll find the most important museums, as well as architecture by some of the greatest Finnish architects, and numerous things to do.

Within easy reach of Helsinki are the charming smaller cities of Turku and Porvoo. But it would be a shame to confine a trip only to the Baltic coast, when so much beautiful open countryside beckons. To the west lie the Finnish lakes, and in the north is the vast area beyond the Arctic Circle, home of the midnight sun, northern lights, and some of Europe's best winter sports.

Winter or summer, Finland offers plenty of things to do. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Finland.

1. Suomenlinna Fortress

2. kauppatori (market square) and esplanadi, 3. rovaniemi and the arctic, 4. helsinki churches, 5. go skiing or ride a dogsled, 6. shop and browse in helsinki's design district, 7. watch the northern lights, 8. åland archipelago, 11. lake saimaa and savonlinna, 13. tampere, 14. lemmenjoki national park, 16. hameenlinna, 17. ranua wildlife park.

One of the world's largest sea fortresses , the 18th-century fort on Suomenlinna is a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki's Market Square (a mini-cruise that has lovely views of the city as a bonus attraction).

The main point of interest is the fortress-castle whose construction was begun in 1748 during an era of Swedish rule, originally named Sveaborg. In 1808, troops surrendered the fortress to invading Russians, and its condition deteriorated over the following century.

Finally, after independence was regained in 1917, the Finns took control of the fortifications and began the slow process of restoring the landmark. It was an active submarine base during World War II , and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.

Begin with the audio-visual experience in the visitor center (it's in English) for a lively history, then explore its ramparts, tunnels, and museums and walk the trails around the beautiful island. Or sign up here for a guided walk to learn more about the fort and its various attractions. Among these are the 250-ton Vesikko submarine, used by the Finnish Navy from 1936 until the end of World War II.

The Ehrensvärd Museum illustrates the earliest Swedish period, and the Doll and Toy Museum displays dolls, dollhouses, and toys in an old Russian villa. Various buildings house studios and shops of glassblowers, potters, and other craftsmen, and in the summer, you can stay for evening dance and musical performances of the Suomenlinna Summer Theatre .

Official site: https://www.suomenlinna.fi/en

Helsinki's harbor is an integral part of the city, whose important landmarks overlook it. It's also a popular gathering point, with an open-air market of local farmers, craftsmen, food producers, and fishermen , who sell directly from their boats.

You may catch the fragrance of salmon cooking over cedar planks beside the boats, and depending on the season see a rainbow of glistening ripe berries or baskets of foraged woodland mushrooms. The historic 1889 market hall shelters more food vendors, but the outdoor market is a year-round tradition, protected by tarps and tents in the winter.

Stretching from one side of the Market Square, the open swath of the Esplanadi is where the entire city seems to congregate on summer evenings. The tree-lined promenade is bordered by elegant buildings and a pavilion houses the Kappeli Restaurant, whose terrace is especially popular on summer evenings when there are concerts in the bandstand.

A fountain, another work by Eliel Saarinen, supports a statue of Havis Amanda, Helsinki's symbol. Helsinki's most unusual museum, the Street Museum , climbs from market Square to Senate Square, a one-block progression from the early 1800s to the 1930s, with paving surfaces, street lights, mail boxes, and phone booths changing with each era.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Helsinki & Easy Day Trips

The Arctic Circle runs across northern Finland, right through the town of Rovaniemi, giving it claim to being the Gateway to the Arctic . In the summer, this means the famous Midnight Sun .

While the sun only stays above the horizon for a full 24 hours in Rovaniemi on the summer solstice in late June, from late May to early August it never drops far enough for it to get dark. Locals are out enjoying their great outdoors throughout these "White Nights" and welcome tourists to join them.

Rovaniemi is in the center of a vast natural area of rushing rivers for canoeing, swimming, or fishing, with trails alongside them for hiking and cycling. The city is best known (ask any Finnish child) as the home of Santa Claus, right astride the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village . You can meet reindeer here or visit a Sami reindeer farm.

To learn more about the Lapland culture and about the natural history, meteorology and geology of the Arctic, visit the stunning Arktikum Science Museum .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Rovaniemi

Three of the top places to visit in Helsinki are churches, two of them cathedrals and the third a landmark of modern architecture. Uspensky Orthodox Cathedral rises dramatically above the east side of the harbor, its 13 green-topped spires ending in gold cupolas. This is western Europe's largest Orthodox church, its interior glowing with gold, icons, crosses, altars, and intricately decorated arches. The cathedral serves Helsinki's large Russian population, and visitors are welcome.

On the hill directly behind the harbor and an equally visible landmark to those approaching Helsinki by sea, the huge Neoclassical Lutheran Cathedral is so close and so large that it appears to be standing on the roofs of the harbor-front buildings. The tall green dome and broad steps of the early 19th-century cathedral form the majestic focal point of Senate Square.

The buildings facing the square complete a harmonious enclosure, one of Europe's most beautiful public squares. It is used frequently for celebrations and as the starting point of parades. In December, the entire square is filled with booths selling beautiful local crafts and holiday foods.

While these two cathedrals are firmly in the traditions of their denomination, Temppeliaukio Church is an architectural experiment, carved into solid rock on a relatively small space in the center of the city. Architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen designed the church, covering it with a rounded, woven copper roof supported by concrete spokes. The acoustics created by the combination of copper and stone are remarkable, making this a popular venue for musical concerts of all styles.

In the winter, the Arctic region is a paradise for skiers and others who love snow and ice sports. You can ride across frozen lakes and visit Sami villages on a dogsled safari , learn to drive your own reindeer sled, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for miles, and watch the spectacular northern lights.

Downhill skiers should head about 170 kilometers north of Rovaniemi to Levi , a center for all winter recreation, with miles of scenic Nordic ski trails, lighted for night skiing. So are the pistes and slopes of Finland's largest downhill ski area. Many hotels at Levi have rooms with glass ceilings, so you can watch the northern lights from inside.

The epicenter of modern Scandinavian design, Helsinki has an entire district devoted to studios, galleries, and even antique shops dedicated to Finish designers and their work. Whether you're shopping or just looking, a few hours in these neighborhoods is a chance to experience this vibrant facet of Finnish arts and culture.

Design District Helsinki brings together creative people in the central neighborhoods of Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi, and Ullanlinna, where you'll find boutiques, galleries, and studios devoted to contemporary designs in fashion, jewelry, furnishings, tableware and everyday items.

Along with the shops, you can arrange visits to some designer studios, such as Raaka Rå (organic pottery) and Paja (artisan jewelry) to see craftspeople at work; contact them through the Design District website. You'll also find shops specializing in design-driven antiques and vintage Finnish designs, such as Art.fi and Artek 2nd Cycle.

For an overview (and a great shop) visit the Design Forum Finland on Erottajankatu, which showcases the best of Finnish design in everything from dishes to paperclips. To see how Finnish design and craftsmanship have developed, and see some outstanding examples from the past, visit the Design Museum in the Kaartinkaupunki neighborhood.

Official site: https://designdistrict.fi/en/

For most people, seeing these blazing curtains of light drape across the sky is a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights . Although, at times, the lights can be seen even in the southern most regions of the nation, the best place to see them is in the region close to or north of the Arctic Circle.

Here, between September and March, visitors are almost guaranteed a show if the sky is clear. A wide range of hotels in the north cater specifically to people wanting to see the lights. Also, the Finnish Meteorological Institute allows you to sign up for free Northern Lights email alerts.

The Åland Islands (or Åland) are an autonomous archipelago between Sweden and Finland. A predominantly Swedish-speaking province of Finland, Åland is comprised of a few large islands and nearly 10,000 smaller ones. Åland has a unique history. It was ceded to Russia by Sweden in 1809. In 1854, a combined British/French fleet took the islands, destroying the fortress. After that, the entire archipelago was demilitarized and remains so to this day.

About 27,500 people live in Åland, with about 11,000 in the main town of Mariehamn . The main industry of the islands has always been shipping and trade, so the Maritime Museum, the Museum Ship Pommern, and the Maritime Quarter in Mariehamn are worth seeing to understand the islands' fascinating maritime history.

Also worth a visit is the Jan Karlsgården open-air museum in Kastelholm, where you can see what a typical island farm looked like around 1890. However, the big draw to Åland these days is its unspoiled nature and beautiful landscapes.

On midsummer's eve, Åland holds a massive and ancient celebration marking the longest day of the year. The lovely landscapes and seascapes make it a favorite with artists, and their studios and galleries are popular with tourists, who arrive by boat from Turku and Stockholm.

The southwestern Finnish town of Turku, the country's oldest town and until 1812 its capital, lies on the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Aurajoki River. Turku lies in the area where the successors to the Swedish Vikings landed in the 12th century and set out to conquer what is now Finland.

With eight centuries of history, it is today the most traditional medieval town in Finland, but in addition to its outstanding medieval buildings, you'll find examples of Art Nouveau and modern architecture, such as the Sibelius Museum , by Woldemar Baeckman.

The river is a focal point for the city, lined with historic boats, some of which have been converted into restaurants. In the summer, locals gather along its banks in the evening and in the winter, it becomes a giant skating rink.

On the northeast side of the river is the commercial center with the Kaupatori (market square) shopping center and lovely Orthodox Church . On the opposite bank the medieval cathedral , consecrated in 1290, rises above the Old Great Square . It is a massive brick church in Late Romanesque style with Gothic and Renaissance additions and a massive 97-meter-high tower, which dominates the city.

During the midsummer Medieval Festival , the old square's ensemble of historic buildings regains its medieval air with craft stalls and food vendors.

Just down from the cathedral along the river, two old sailing ships are moored - the "Suomen Joutsen," now a training school for seamen, and the "Sigyn," the last remaining wooden barque used for sea trade. Both are open to the public in summer.

Nearer the harbor is Turku Castle, built around 1300 on what was then an island at the mouth of the river. It was enlarged in the 16th to 17th century and now houses the Turku Historical Museum .

For a look at what Turku looked like in the early 1800s, stroll through the streets of the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum , an entire neighborhood of 40 homes, the only ones saved in the fire that destroyed Turku in 1827. Preserved as a museum village, its homes and workshops now house artisans who demonstrate period crafts.

The country's second oldest town, Porvoo, is 48 kilometers east of Helsinki. It rises from a picturesque riverfront lined with little red wooden buildings, through a charming tangle of old streets and ochre-colored wooden houses to its hilltop medieval cathedral . Highlights here are the ornate 1764 pulpit and wall paintings from the 15th century.

Between the river and the hilltop cathedral is the Market Square with two museums worth visiting. One has exhibits on local history and the other, the Edelfelt-Vallgren Museum , is of particular interest to those fascinated by the Art Nouveau movement. It features the furniture, ceramics, and other works of several artists who formed an art colony here at the turn of the 20th century.

Porvoo is still known for its fine crafts, so allow time for browsing the shops and studios. In the summer, you can visit Porvoo from Helsinki by boat.

The entire eastern portion of Finland is more sea than land. With literally tens of thousands of lakes, rivers, marshes, and ponds, eastern Finland is a fabulous aquatic playground. The dominant lake of the region is massive Lake Saimaa , the "lake of a thousand islands." Lake Saimaa itself has an area of some 1,300 square kilometers - excluding its numerous islands.

The whole lake system is drained by the river Vuoksi, which leaves Lake Saimaa to the north of the town of Imatra and flows into Lake Ladoga in Russia. The hilly shores of the lake and most of the islands are almost entirely covered with coniferous forest, with some birch forest farther north.

Savonlinna is the main city of Finland's lake region. A popular spa and holiday resort, Savonlinna grew up around Olavinlinna Castle, begun in 1475 and Europe's northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing.

The castle, which has been beautifully restored, contains a number of handsome rooms, among them the King's or Knights' Hall , the Congress Hall , and the Great Hall . Three massive round towers have survived, and in one of them, the Church Tower , is a small chapel. In the Great Bastion is a summer café.

East of Savonlinna lies Kerimäki and the largest wooden church in the world. A must do when in the lake region are the boat cruises. From Savonlinna, there are boat trips to the other towns on Lake Saimaa, to Punkaharju , with the Retretti Art Center , the largest in the Nordic countries, to the monasteries of Uusi Valamo and Lintula . Another day trip option is a cruise down the Saimaa Canal to Vyborg in Russia on the Baltic Sea.

Established in the 1300s, Vaasa was an important town in the time that Sweden ruled Finland. The original town burned down in 1852 and was relocated six kilometers northwest near a better harbor. The ruins of the old city are now a giant park (Vanha Vaasa, Gamla Vasa).

The town is about 34 percent Swedish speaking and retains many ties to Sweden. Surrounded by a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and shops, the large market place is the center of city life. This peaceful town offers plenty of attractions. Visitors can walk along the waterfront, which begins in front of the town and extends for miles along the coast.

Other attractions include the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art, down at the harbor, the Ostrobothnian Museum, the Terranova Kvarken Nature Center , the Tikanoja Art Museum, and the Vaasa Maritime Museum .

Just to the east of the city center, on an island, is Tropiclandia and tropical spa , a waterpark inside a heated dome packed with pools, slides, and saunas. South of Vaasa is the famed Söderfjärden crater caused by a meteor millions of years ago. To the north lies the Kvarken National Park , a wild archipelago hosting many great hikes and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Vaasa also hosts a number of notable cultural events, including the Night of the Arts ; the Korsholm Music Festival , one of the most noted of chamber music festivals; and the Vaasa Choir Festival . Vaasa claims to be the sunniest town in all of Finland, so soak up some rays on one of the many beaches.

Founded in 1779 as an industrial settlement, Tampere is Finland's third largest town, but doesn't feel like a large urban center. It lies between two lakes: Näsijärvi, to the north, and Pyhäjärvi, to the south, which are linked by the Tammerkoski , a stretch of rapids nearly a kilometer long.

Along with its industry, Tampere is known for its active cultural life with an open-air theater and frequent festivals. These include the November Tampere Jazz Happening , a tradition now for more than 35 years, when world-renowned names in jazz perform throughout the city in small concert venues and clubs.

In the Vapriikki Museum, you'll find the Natural History Museum and other exhibitions. Three churches are of note: Tampere Cathedral is known for its unusual paintings and frescoes depicting skeletons in black hooded capes, created in the early 1900s by Finnish symbolist painter Hugo Simberg.

The Kaleva Church, a soaring concrete building constructed in the 1960s has a floor plan in the shape of a fish, an ancient Christian symbol. The green-domed brick Orthodox Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky and Saint Nicholas has a sumptuously decorated interior.

Anyone seeking an Arctic wilderness experience will love Lemmenjoki National Park. The tract of boreal forest is the largest park in Finland and one of the most extensive chunks of wildlands in all of Europe, covering more than 2,589 square kilometers. For the trekker, there are hundreds of kilometers of marked trails, as well as free and open wilderness huts and more sophisticated rental huts with sauna and campfire places.

The namesake of the park, the Lemmenjoki River, is a sight to behold as it flows down from the fells into a stunning valley of towering pines. Visitors can either rent a boat or take a tour. This is the place to find brown bear, wolves, and wild golden eagles, as well as moose and reindeer.

Sweet little Oulu lies near the north end of the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Oulujoki river. It began as a village clustered around the late 16th-century castle built by King John III of Sweden on the island of Linnansaari at the mouth of the Oulujoki.

At the north end of the busy Kirkkokatu stands the c athedral , originally built in 1770-72. Beyond, at the north end of Kirkkokatu, a small bridge leads into the beautiful island of Ainola , where you'll find a park and the Provincial Museum . Farther north is the Botanic Garden, and on the island of Hupisaari, a summer theater.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Tietomaa Science Center to the east of the Oulu Botanic Garden. In the summer, spend some time at the Market Square over coffee and classic Finnish pastries. A few kilometers up the Oulujoki is the island of Turkansaari , once the home of Russian traders in the city and now an open-air museum.

Like many Finnish towns, Hämeenlinna began near a castle, in this case the 13th-century Tavastehus Castle . Its distinctive red-brick fortifications top the list of places to see in Hameenlinna. The other place you shouldn't miss seeing is Aulanko Nature Reserve . Part garden park, part forest reserve, it is the first National Urban Park in Finland.

The English-style park was constructed between 1883 and 1938, and in addition to hiking its well-kept trails among exotic and native trees, you can climb the 30-meter-tall granite tower on Aulangonvuori Hill for views across a typical Finnish forest and lake landscape. More than 50 different species of trees and shrubs are identified along the nature trail round Lake Joutsenlampi. Two historic pavilions and the ruins of a late 19th-century castle are also in the park.

Hämeenlinna was the birthplace of the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) and north of the market Square is the Sibelius Museum; a little bit farther on is the Sibelius Park and the nearby Hämeenlinna Historical Museum .

This park is part zoo and part wildlife preserve, home to more than 50 species of animals who call the arctic their home. Their most famous residents are Venus and Manse, the only polar bears residing in Finland . The park is naturally home to many reindeer, as well as the smaller wild forest reindeer and several varieties of deer.

Other park residents include large mammals like moose and brown bear, canines like the Arctic fox, grey wolf, and the dhole, and smaller animals like mink, otter, and stoat. There is also quite a variety of owls and geese, as well as several eagles and other birds. Visitors can stroll the grounds for a self-guided tour or book an "arctic safari" to learn more about the animals and their habitat.

Address: Rovaniementie 29, 97700 Ranua, Finland

Official site: https://english.ranuazoo.com

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Finland » 13 Awesome Things to do in Savonlinna, Finland

13 Awesome Things to do in Savonlinna, Finland

What's In This Guide?

Your ultimate guide to savonlinna, finland.

Savonlinna is a stunning old city located in the middle of the Saimaa Lakes, Finland’s largest lake system. When you visit Savonlinna you are literally surrounded by water and can immerse yourself in a beautiful yet non-touristy Finnish city.

Though many people may not have heard of it before traveling to Finland, there are a surprising number of things to do in Savonlinna. From exploring the stunning Olavinlinna Castle to paddling through the national park while spotting the world’s rarest seal, or cruising around the harbor on a traditional steamboat, you won’t get bored here, that’s why I’ve also listed it as one of the top places in Finland.

We visited Savonlinna for 4 days as part of our two-week road trip around Finland. But to be honest, we could easily have spent an entire week here.

In this guide, I will cover 13 things to do in Savonlinna. Note that a few of these will only be applicable in the summer months, so be sure to check opening hours and availabilities while you plan.

Things to do in Savonlinna

Get Lost in Olavinlinna Castle

Opening Hours: Daily from 11am-6pm

Olavinlinna Castle was built in the 15 th century, originally named St Olaf’s Castle by a Danish noble called Erik Axelson Tott. The castle was historically a key strategic fortress along the former border of the Swedish and Russian Empires. Over the centuries it changed hands between the two empires several times after bloody medieval battles were fought on its grounds.

These days, Olavinlinna Castle is the northernmost medieval stone fortress that remains standing. It is a heritage protected national icon in Finland.

There are guided tours which depart every hour, on the hour. We joined one of these which I highly recommend. The tour gives you a much better understanding of the history and the purpose of the different rooms. Also, you are only permitted up access the upper levels of the castle if you join one of these guided tours. (We were sneaky and went to the upper levels ourselves but got completely lost and eventually found by some not so happy staff).

Hop on a Steamboat Cruise

Opening Months: June to August only

One of Finland’s most nostalgic activities is to board a steamboat on a nice sunny afternoon. There are a number of old steamboats right around the Lakeland region.

There are three steamboats in Savonlinna; SS Punkaharju, SS Paul Wahl, and SS Savonlinna (SS denoting Steam Ship). We took a 1.5-hour cruise on SS Punkaharju which went around the harbor passing Olavinlinna Castle, a bunch of small islands in the lake, and some beautiful old summer houses by the water.

The steamboat captain named Juri runs these trips out of pure love for the boats. I highly suggest having a chat with him if your boat isn’t too crowded, he’s interesting and very easy to talk too.

Steamboat cruises run around Savonlinna harbor from the start of June to the end of August. The boats only typically run if they get at least 6 passengers.

Wander Through Savonlinna’s Old Town

Nearby Savonlinna’s harbor you will find a few old cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden buildings. This is the typical Finnish historical town setting, similar to the old towns in Raahe, Kokkola, and Porvoo.

I suggest taking a walk along Linnankatu where you will find a few nice restaurants, bars, cafes, and old buildings. It’s only a 2-3 minute walk from Olavinlinna Castle.

Eat Lörsty, Savonlinna’s Local Delicacy

It’s like a donut filled with a meat pie, then topped with a cucumber salad. Sounds weird, tastes delicious. Lörsty is the local dish from Savonlinna, and apparently, it’s pretty tough to find a decent one elsewhere.

It might be a contentious point, but I’ve been told the best Lörsty is from the Teboil Kallislahti (petrol station) about 17 kilometers west of the city. That’s where I got mine (pictured above). Others say the best Lörsty in Savonlinna is at the harbor near the steamboats. If you try both, please let me know which one is better in the comments section below.

Taste the Local Craft Beers

It’s no secret that I love beer, and tasty craft beer all that much more. Considering how expensive alcohol is in Finland, it’s actually quite surprising that this craft beer trend has kicked off around the Saimaa lakes region, particularly in Savonlinna.

There are some amazing breweries operating in the region such as Waahto Brewery, Mustaan Virran, and the Saimaa Brewing Company. You can buy their beers from most good supermarkets these days, but nothing beats having a cold beer on tap at the source.

Visit Waahto Brewery or Mustaan Virran Brewery right near Olavinlinna Castle on a nice warm summer’s afternoon.

Stay at a Lakeside Cabin

What would a trip to Finnish Lakeland be without spending some time in a lakeside cabin? You’ll typically need to drive a bit further out of town to find there, but it’s totally worth the effort. Just about all these cabins come with a wood fireplace, and wood sauna, keeping you warm all year round.

Our summer cabin (booked through Airbnb) was located about 30 minutes out of Savonlinna near to the village of Kerimäki. We loved waking up next to the lake and going for a swim each morning. It’s the perfect way to live the slow life in Savonlinna.

Visit the World’s Largest Wooden Church (Kerimäki Church)

Opening Hours: Daily from 10am-6pm | Entry: Free

Kerimäki Church is the largest wooden church in the world measuring 45 meters long, 42 meters wide and 27 meters high. It’s pretty impressive from both the interior and exterior. Kerimäki Chruch is large enough to seat over 3000 people at once!

The church is located about 23 kilometers east of Savonlinna in the small village of Kerimäki. It is typically open from 10am to 6pm, however, you can check specific opening hours . Entry to the church is free.

Enjoy the Punkaharju Hotel Buffet

Opening Hours: 11.30am-10pm

I’ve said it in my summer guide to Rovaniemi, and I’ll say it again. Finns LOVE buffets. This is a Finnish culture I had no idea of before visiting the country for the first time.

One of the best lunch buffets in all of Finland is at Hotel Punkaharju, located 36 kilometers southeast of Savonlinna on the stunning Punkaharju Ridge. The hotel and restaurant is run by Saimi Hoyer, a super famous Finnish model and TV personality.

What makes the restaurant particularly famous is that all the food is sourced locally. From the fresh herbs, vegetables, and mushrooms to the fish and meats. Some Finns tend to say their country lacks its own food identity, however, Hotel Punkaharju is taking Finland one step closer to solving that.

The restaurant at Hotel Punkaharju is open from 11.30am to 10pm daily, however, the lunch buffet is only served from 11.30 to 3.00pm daily. The restaurant can get quite busy for lunch, so you may like to consider making a reservation on Hotel Punkaharju’s website the day before you visit.

Explore the Kuikonniemen Fortress

Open Hours: Always | Entry: Free

There were some bloody battles fought against Russia in Finland’s Winter War, however, the fighting never actually made it to Punkaharju. The Kuikonniemen Fortress was one of the defenses built by the Finns around 1944 to defend the esker region (Savonlinna/Punkaharju).

The Kuikonniemen Fortress is a long series of trenches hidden in the forest along the Punkaharju Ridge. The trenches are lined with wooden logs but have deteriorated over time and are now fenced off so that you are only supposed to walk around the outside.

Finding the Kuikonniemen Fortress is a bit tricky. There is a carpark along Punkaharju Ridge with a sign which indices the trenches are nearby. In fact, the best way is not to walk through the carpark, but another 50 meters up the road (heading south) where you will easily find the trenches on the left-hand side.

The trenches are open all day, and there is no entry fee.

Spot the Saimaa Ringed Seal

The Saimaa Ringed Seal is the rarest seal in the world. Only about 360 of these seals remain in the wild, and all of them live only in the Saimaa lakes region. The population fluctuates each year depending on how heavy the winter is.

The Saimaa Ringed Seal has been cut off from the ocean since the last Ice Age (at least 8,000 years ago). Since then it has adapted from living in seawater to freshwater.

The best place to spot the Saimaa Ringed Seal in around Linnansaari National Park. There are daily tours departing from Orvai Village . The tours are weather dependant, if the wind is heavy then the water will be quite rough and unsuitable for the small lake boats. Tours typically cost about 70 euro per person and run for a few hours in the mornings.

Visit the Lusto Forest Museum

Opening Hours:  Tues-Sun 10am-5pm | Entry: 11 Euro

The Lusto Finnish Forest Museum is one of the quirkiest places I have been to in Finland. It explores various aspects of the close relationship between Finns and their forests. If you hadn’t noticed yet, there is a lot of forest in Finland.

A series of exhibitions will take you through the history of forestry in Finland, from the 1800s and prior where logs were transported by floating them downriver, to the modern-day where sustainable forestry practices are implemented.

A 2 hour visit here will give you a much better appreciation for one of Finland’s primary industries, and how is has shaped the country and the people today.

Check the latest entry fees and opening hours on the Lusto Forest Museum website.

Hike or Kayak through Linnansaari National Park

The Linnansaari National Park is the true essence of Finnish Lakeland. It is located just east of the small villages of Rantasalmi and Porosalmi (about 45 kilometers north of Savonlinna).

There are a number of hiking trails in the national park ranging from 2 to 7 kilometers in length. All of these trails are located on the main Linnansari Island. You can read more about the trail on the national park website .

Canoeing and kayaking around the islands are both popular in the summer months. There is a 40 kilometer water trail which you can follow, provide you bring a tent and allow 6 to 7 days. Whether you want to paddle around the islands for half a day or half a week, you can get further information on equipment rental here .

Kick Back in Sauna World

It sounds like some too good to be true Finnish theme park, but I kid you not, Sauna World exists. This is actually part of what the Finns refer to as a “wellness retreat” at the Jarvisydan Hotel and Spa located about 30min north of Savonlinna.

For 30 euro you get access to a whole series of saunas; traditional smoke saunas, steam saunas, really hot saunas, and some more mild saunas. You will also be able to use the spa pools with their super strong massage jets, plunge in the outdoor ice pool, or take an “arctic storm” rain shower.

Sounds like the relaxation you need? You can book online here.

How to Get to Savonlinna

Savonlinna is located about 330 kilometers northeast of Helsinki. Although there is an airport, I don’t see much point in flying when you are on holiday. I  will cover the following three options; bus, train, and car.

Car – the drive from Helsinki to Savonlinna is beautiful. The road passes by many huge lakes and along some very scenic ridges where you will be surrounded by endless water on either side. I’d suggest driving via Mikkeli which takes under 4 hours direct.

Renting a car in Finland? Check out my guide to getting the cheapest rental car in Helsinki – I personally saved over $1,000!

Train – there are 5 train services per day from Helsinki to Savonlinna. You will need to make a transfer in the village of Parikkala. The total journey time is just over 4 hours, tickets cost about 40 euros depending on the time of departure from Helsinki. Tickets can be booked online at VR Finnish Railways .

Bus – there are 5 bus services per day from Helsinki to Savonlinna, 4 of which are direct. The journey time is just over 5 hours, and a ticket costs 19-25 euro depending on the time of departure from Helsinki. Tickets can be booked online at Matkahuolto .

Have you found something else worth visiting in Savonlinna? Please let me know in the comments section below, I’d love to hear about it.

Where to Next?

• Read My Guide to Spending Summer Rovaniemi
• Be Inspired by These Top Destinations Savonlinna
• Stay in One of These Amazing Glass Igloos in Lapland
• Check Out My Instagram feed for more Finnish Inspiration

Disclaimer: We visited Savonlinna as part of a partnership with Visit Saimaa , the regional tourism board across the Saimaa Lakes region (Savonlinna, Mikkeli, and Varkaus). As always, you can trust me when I say that all opinions are my own.

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Home » Travel Guides » Finland » 15 Best Places to Visit in Finland

15 Best Places to Visit in Finland

The long and icy backbone of Scandinavia, Finland rarely fails to enchant. It draws travelers with the promise of Lapland’s far-flung forests and fells, snow-packed ski fields, the Sami and Santa, the cutting-edge cities of Helsinki and Turku , uber-friendly locals, swish design studios and some of the most wonderful and rugged coastal stretches in the world. Here, we take a look at 15 of its top bucket-list destinations.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Finland :

A cocktail of industry and innovation, Finnish hospitality and the vibrant arts, Tampere can be found sandwiched between the two colossal lakes of Pyhajarvi and Nasijarvi – both of which offer endless opportunities for boat cruising, hiking and cross-country skiing by winter.

Back in the city and the old red-brick mill houses of yesteryear now play host to off-beat exhibitions like the Hiekka Art Museum and the Lenin exhibit, while the Moominvalley Museum and the Amuri open-air park offer glimpses of Finland’s famous Tove Jansson and the nation’s labour history alike. The middle of town is cut-through by the roaring Tammerkoski Rapids, with nearby Keskustori Square and the strip of Hameenkatu buzzing with tea houses, heavy metal dives and black blood sausage holes-in-the-wall.

A city of more than 600 years of history, Porvoo hails in as one of Finland’s few bona fide medieval settlements. It can be found clinging to the pretty topography of the Baltic Coast just a short jaunt east out of Helsinki; a patchwork of crooked timber homes painted in red and orange and historically-rich town squares clad in cobble, all fringed by the Middle Age constructions of the town’s onetime Swedish masters.

Right at the heart of the centre, the gorgeous Porvoo Cathedral and its half-wood façade ooze with tales of Russian and Danish invaders alike, while locals gather in the marketplace of Old Porvoo to sip coffees and people watch the day away.

Ranging from the snow-caked forests of Riisitunturi to the stark and windswept fells of the north, the icy rollers of the Gulf of Bothnia to the blasted boreal tundra of the Arctic Circle, Lapland is every inch the mysterious, untapped, untrodden wilderness you’d expect.

Travelers flock here to man the husky sleds and delve into the wild forests that encompass ice-crusted Lake Inari, they come to sample hearty reindeer steaks and cloudberry preserves, to see Santa Claus in his ancestral home, to ski the treeless hills, encounter the earthy Sami peoples and their charming town steads, hike the rugged borderlands with Sweden and see ancient timber churches dotting the northern wilds.

Facing Sweden on the northern gulf, Oulu is a charming town of islets and bridges, prosperous neighbourhoods and prestigious universities. Indelibly green and verdant in the summer, the banks of the brackish River Oulujoki delineate the town centre, carving it up into a series of pretty cays as the tendrils of the delta move outwards to meet the salty rollers of Bothnia.

It’s here that travelers will find the lively cobbles of the central Kauppatori square, packed with farmer’s markets on the weekend, and the bubbling main drag of Rotuaari, with its looming department stores and clutch of student cafes and bars. This all comes peppered with the pretty neo-Renaissance facades of the City Hall and one cutting-edge science centre to boot.

5. Helsinki

The beating cultural, economic and political hub of Finland as a whole, Helsinki is unquestionably one of the most bucket-list capitals in Scandinavia. It bursts forth from its location on the edge of Uusimaa; the Baltic lapping up against its countless inlets and harbours; its resplendent gold-gilded and whitewashed architectural rises belying Petersburg and one seriously ambitious tsarist rebuilding from two centuries ago.

But this neoclassical shell and the likes of the gorgeous Lutheran Cathedral are just part of the story. Helsinki’s locals are innovative and edgy in the extreme, offering oodles of design studios and hipster cafes, mind-boggling avant-garde at the Ateneum, otherworldly architectural pieces like the Kiasma and a sophisticated nightlife scene besides.

6. Archipelago National Park

A series of countless islets, cays, sandbanks, protruding coastal rocks and fragmented lands that juts its way out into the cold Baltic on the extreme south-western edge of Finland, the beautiful Archipelago National Park remains one of the nation’s undisputed gems.

Some of the islands here are tiny, offering just a mound or craggy salt-washed top to visitors passing by on chugging sightseeing boats. Others, like the Oro Fortress Island, which allows glimpses of Finland’s militarised past during the years of Russian occupation, or Jurmo, showcasing the real rustic beauty of this windswept coastal clime, come packed to the brim with culture and character.

Turku enjoyed several centuries as the most strategic and vibrant town in all of Finland; a medieval boom that’s now showcased in the great wealth of historical monuments here, from the great bulwarks and shadowy dungeons of the Turku Castle to the square-cut tower of the mighty Turku Cathedral.

There’s also a vibrant student scene to enjoy, and oodles of al fresco pubs and beer dives, vodka bars and heavy metal music joints. Add to that a truly gorgeous setting on the edge of the Archipelago National Park, the craft exhibitions and untouched historical wonders of the Luostarinmaki district and the pretty beech forests and golf courses of Ruissalo, and Turku really starts to score points!

8. Koli National Park

Hugging the hilly banks of Lake Pielinen as it scars its way through the heartlands of south-central Finland and North Karelia, the Koli National Park is home to truly breathtaking vistas of primeval spruce forests and waterside fir groves. It’s hardly surprising that the area has been the muse for painters and romantics, and there’s little question that its glorious backcountry charms make it the popular hiking and winter sports (there are two ski resorts here) destination it is today.

However, Koli is perhaps best seen as a cultural hotspot, famed for its earthy bucolic side and ancient traditions of slash-and-burn farming and rustic agriculture. These are best viewed from vantage points at Ukko-Koli Hill and Vesivaara.

9. Seurasaari

Encompassed by the Baltic waters just a little to the west of Helsinki, the verdant and calm island of Seurasaari represents arguably the most acclaimed open-air museum in Europe. Awash with faded timber barns and painted manors decorated in wooden carvings, bobbing rowing boats and rustic shelters, it does well to showcase the traditional Finnish way of life.

But Seurasaari isn’t just about the heritage park that’s made it famous. No sir, there are also secluded beaches here (one’s nudist!) and enchanting moss-clad cabins to discover in the woods, while midsummer sees an eruption of bonfires all around the island – a testimony to the continuation of age old traditions here.

10. Hameenlinna

Sleepy Hameenlinna can be found set between the waters and inland wilds of Tavastia in southern Finland; a place off-the-beaten-track and dressed in swathes of green coniferous forest. The town is crowned at the centre by one seriously glorious Swedish castle, which was raised here in the 1200s to secure trading routes back to the Bothnia Gulf.

Today this monolith fortification still silhouettes the horizon of the city, while the home of Sibelius the composer and the Hameenlinna Historical Museum offer a glimpse at the other culture and heritage that has blossomed here since the 16th century.

Vaasa is a proud relic of the lengthy Swedish excursion into this western edge of Finland, and a town that fuses its deep history with a lively university scene and modern edge. In the downtown, travelers will discover national monuments (particularly relevant in this town where the tumult of Russian invasions was felt much more than anywhere else), alongside reinvigorated mill houses where lecture halls now talk technology and innovation.

The beautiful Market Square is the beating heart of life in Vaasa, while the waterfront walkways and Gothic Revivalism of the stoic maritime buildings there add weight to this one’s age-old connection with the sea.

One of the jewels of the Finnish lake district of Northern Savonia, Kuopio sits nestled between the mirror-like waters of Kallavesi and sweeping swathes of spruce forests that flit between icy white and spinach green with the changing of the seasons.

A real favorite with adventure tourists and outdoorsy types, the modest little town and its National Romantic architecture, bulbous City Hall and sprawling central square is a fine place to wax up the walking boots and hit the pretty trails of Laivonsaari island, don the Nordic skis and delve into some of the best cross-country routes in Finland, or simply stroll the countryside between creaking windmills and pretty farmsteads.

13. Lemmenjoki National Park

Something like Europe’s answer to the wildernesses of Alaska and Canada, Lemmenjoki National Park sprawls out over a whopping 2,850 square kilometers on the northern fringes of Finland, where the rugged fells give way to the ice fields and chiselled fjords of Norway.

The whole area is crisscrossed with over 60 kilometers of marked and maintained hiking trails, drawing thousands of backpackers and walkers each year to the vast hinterland of cascading spruce forests and looming pines, shimmering lakes that turn to ice by winter and the reindeer-dotted woodlands of the high north. Other travelers will come to seek out the gold-digging locals, or the indigenous ancestral homeland of the Sami people, whose rustic timber villages ooze the traditions of a time gone by.

Mantled in snow for its long, long winters, and perched neatly up between the rugged, tree-dotted fells of the Arctic Circle, Levi hails in as Finland’s top winter resort. Skiers come by their droves to enjoy the generous powder and guaranteed conditions, which spread out over the 43 alpine runs and offer a whole host of skiing and boarding for beginners through to intermediates (there are also a handful of challenging black runs).

In the evening the charming town takes over, its pine-clad sauna spas and reindeer farms all lit up by the Northern Lights – pure winter bliss!

15. Aland Islands

A stepping stone of an archipelago at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia, the Swedephone Aland Islands are a real curiosity to say the least. The locals speak Swedish and proudly talk of their duty-free, tax-free rights to the mainland Finns who make their way here in the summer. They also tout their own brand of Aland pancakes (to-die-for!) and an enthralling mix of Russian fortresses and mysterious castle ruins left over by the Swedish kings (check Kastelholm).

The real treat here, however, is the backcountry, which rises from the Baltic Sea in a medley of shimmering, ivory-white beaches, rocky shores peppered with shaggy sheep herds, winding seaside bridges and verdant spruce groves.

15 Best Places to Visit in Finland:

• Archipelago National Park
• Koli National Park
• Hameenlinna
• Lemmenjoki National Park
• Aland Islands

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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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