Finland

Finland, a land of enchanting forests, pristine lakes, and vibrant cities, offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences year-round — from thrilling winter adventures to tranquil summer escapes. Explore our collection of the 20 best things to do in this captivating Nordic country.

Explore Finland’s modern capital

Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital, is celebrated for its innovative design, striking modern architecture, and thriving culinary scene. Its spectacular natural setting — from the sprawling central park to the charming nearby islands — is another major draw for travellers. Located near the Gulf of Finland’s entrance, Helsinki is protected by the imposing UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna Fortress, a must-see for history buffs.

The majestic, neoclassical white Helsinki Cathedral is an iconic symbol of the city, featured on countless postcards and photos. Temppeliaukio Church, another noteworthy religious building, is one of Helsinki’s most extraordinary attractions, carved directly into solid rock. The city also boasts an impressive collection of world-class museums, including the comprehensive National Museum of Finland and the prestigious Ateneum Art Museum.

Visitors appreciate relaxing in cosy local cafes, savouring a cup of coffee or sampling innovative Finnish cuisine. And no trip is complete without experiencing sauna — the beloved (and stereotypical) Finnish pastime. Overall, a visit to Helsinki is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland year-round. Exploring the country’s dynamic capital is an excellent introduction before venturing further inland.

Chase the Northern Lights

Approximately one-third of Finland lies within the Arctic Circle, making it a prime European destination for an Aurora chase. Numerous charming towns and villages across the country’s north offer ideal settings for comfortably experiencing the Northern Lights. The further north one travels in Finland, the higher the chances of witnessing the mesmerising Aurora Borealis.

Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and the home of Santa Claus, is the most popular (and, therefore, the most expensive) destination for Aurora viewing. Ivalo, a small town serving as a gateway to Lapland, is another excellent location, even boasting its own small airport. Other popular towns and villages in Finnish Lapland for Northern Lights viewing include Levi, Saariselkä, Kilpisjärvi, and the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.

Visitors can join an unforgettable Aurora hunt or stay overnight in a glass igloo, hoping to catch the elusive Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds. Aurora viewing can also be combined with other exhilarating winter activities, such as dog sledding or snowmobiling. The possibilities for customised experiences are virtually limitless.

While the Aurora can be seen from late August to late April, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is from late September to late March, when the nights are longest. Plan a winter trip to Finland accordingly and enjoy this mesmerising phenomenon in person. The journey will be worth it.

Experience thrilling winter activities in Lapland

In winter, Lapland transforms into a true wonderland, offering a plethora of exhilarating activities. Beyond chasing the mesmerising Northern Lights, visitors are spoiled for choice — from dog sledding and snowmobiling to unforgettable icebreaker cruises.

Journeys to Lapland often begin with a visit to Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland and the official residence of Santa Claus. This magical town enchants visitors with the Santa Claus Village, SantaPark, and a myriad of available Arctic activities.

Every traveller to Lapland should visit a reindeer farm and interact with these gentle creatures before joining a relaxing reindeer sledding ride. For a more thrilling experience, hop on a snowmobile or a dog sled. This frozen region also offers excellent opportunities for anglers with its ice fishing, while thrill-seekers will love ice climbing or fat biking on extra-wide tyres.

And, of course, the unique icebreaker cruises steal the show, offering a memorable Arctic adventure. Furthermore, accommodations in cosy glass igloos and the experience of a relaxing Finnish sauna enrich any Lapland visit. Indeed, experiencing some of these exciting winter activities in Lapland is one of the best things to do in Finland in winter.

Visit the residence of Santa Claus

Rovaniemi, the aforementioned capital of Finnish Lapland, is home to the official residence of Santa Claus, making it an ideal destination for a family trip. Open year-round, the Santa Claus Village draws endless crowds, especially during the winter season, offering visitors a chance to stay overnight in cosy cottages or glass igloos.

This extraordinary village boasts plenty of exciting activities. Visitors can meet Santa Claus himself in his office, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the Main Post Office. The village also boasts the SnowCastle, rebuilt every year and featuring intricate ice sculptures, slides, and a cosy café.

With numerous workshops and rustic cafés, the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is truly a magical destination and deservedly one of the best places to visit in Finland, especially in winter.

Stay overnight in a glass igloo

One of the truly unique things to do in Finland in winter is spending a night in a cosy glass igloo. This extraordinary accommodation allows guests to marvel at the mesmerising Northern Lights from the comfort of their beds.

Glass igloos are a popular accommodation option throughout Finland, with a wide variety to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats with all the amenities. Some of the most popular resorts offering glass igloos include Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Snowhotel Oulu, and Arctic Guesthouses on the shores of Inari lake.

Spending a night in a glass igloo is an unforgettable experience and a quintessential part of any winter adventure in Finland. It’s undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Finland in winter for a truly unique and memorable experience.

Chill out near Finland’s serene lakes

Lietvesi lake, Finland.

While Finland is celebrated as a premier winter destination, the country is no less fabulous in summer. Renowned as “the land of a thousand lakes,” Finland actually boasts over 187,000 of them, with an impressive ratio of one lake for every 26 Finns. These serene lakes are a true paradise for nature lovers, perfect for boating, canoeing, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the shore.

With so many lakes, it can be challenging to choose where to go. Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland and the fourth largest in Europe, is a popular destination, representing a sprawling labyrinth of islands, straits, and bays. Best explored by kayak or boat, Saimaa lake is home to the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, one of the world’s rarest mammals. Visitors can also explore picturesque towns along the shores, especially Savonlinna with its medieval fortress.

Located in Lapland, Inari lake is another popular choice, offering excellent opportunities for viewing the midnight sun in summer and the Northern Lights in winter. Pielinen in North Karelia is perfect white-water rafting in summer, while Oulujärvi (located within an hour-and-a-half drive from Oulu) is a haven for pike fishing.

Choosing a lake to visit depends on individual preferences, but overall, travelling to the country’s lakes is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland in summer.

Relax in a Finnish sauna

Traditional Finnish wooden sauna with a hot outdoor pool featuring thermal water.

Sauna is an essential experience in Finland and an integral part of the country’s culture. In Finland, saunas are ubiquitous, typically found in homes, hotels, gyms, and even public spaces. And visitors are welcome to relax in various types of saunas — from traditional wood-burning and smoke saunas to modern electric ones.

Many hotels and guesthouses in the country offer private saunas for a more intimate and pleasant experience. Travellers venturing into the countryside should seize the opportunity to experience a traditional wood-burning sauna in a farmhouse or lakeside cottage. So, when considering what to do in Finland, adding a rejuvenating sauna visit to the travel itinerary is a must for a truly authentic Finnish experience.

Lose yourself in Finland’s national parks

A hiker in Oulanka National Park, Finland.

Finland boasts many scenic national parks, providing ample opportunities for hiking through the country’s expansive wilderness. Both beginner and experienced hikers will find excellent options for outdoor recreation, given the impressive number of Finland’s national parks.

Urho Kekkonen National Park in Lapland is one of the country’s most popular, providing visitors with a genuine wilderness experience. With its vast fells, ancient forests, and pristine rivers, the park offers a wide variety of trails — from short nature walks to strenuous multi-day treks. Hikers should keep an eye out for local wildlife, including reindeer, wolverines, and even brown bears.

Also located in Lapland, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is famous for its clean air and spectacular felltop scenery. Oulanka National Park is another renowned destination with abundant wildlife, featuring deep canyons with roaring rapids and drawing visitors to challenge themselves on the multi-day Karhunkierros trail.

Closer to Helsinki, travellers will find Nuuksio National Park (try the Korpinkierros trail) and Repovesi National Park (consider rock climbing at Olhavanvuori) in southern Finland. Koli National Park in the country’s east, which has inspired Finnish artists and writers for centuries, is another outstanding wilderness area that offers many scenic hiking trails.

This is just a glimpse of what Finland has to offer. The number of spectacular national parks is astounding, and it may be challenging to choose where to go. But exploring the country’s vast wilderness is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland in summer.

Explore Turku, the country’s oldest city

The 13th-century Turku Castle, one of Finland’s oldest preserved buildings.

Situated on Finland’s southwest coast, Turku is the country’s oldest city, combining fascinating historical attractions with modern-day museums. Visitors will also appreciate the natural setting, enriched by the Aura River that winds through the city and the stunning Turku archipelago, best explored by boat. A relaxed stroll along the river, a coffee break at one of the many cafés with outdoor terraces, or an introductory boat tour are all excellent ways to experience Turku’s charming atmosphere.

The city’s absolute highlight is the 13th-century Turku Castle, which has served as both a defensive complex and a royal residence. Visitors can explore its impressive halls and dungeons while learning about its history from the exhibitions. The Turku Cathedral, also dating back to the 13th century, is widely regarded as Finland’s national shrine, with its beautiful stained-glass windows and historical artefacts.

Turku also offers an excellent selection of museums. Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova exhibits both archaeological excavations of medieval Turku and contemporary art, blending the city’s past and present. The open-air Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum is home to 18th-century houses, where visitors can witness traditional crafts still being practised.

Art lovers will admire the impressive works by Finnish artists, particularly Wäinö Aaltonen, at the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art, while the Forum Marinum maritime centre provides a fascinating insight into the country’s shipbuilding and seafaring history. Turku, with its rich heritage and vibrant present, is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Finland.

Venture outdoors on two wheels

With its diverse, scenic landscapes, Finland is a perfect destination for biking adventures. From the rolling hills of the Lakeland region to the vast Arctic tundra of Lapland, the country offers a plethora of opportunities for outdoor adventures on two wheels. Helsinki, Finland’s capital, is regarded as one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities, with easy rentals and stunning natural surroundings enhancing the experience.

Beyond the capital, even more exciting multi-day biking adventures await. This Nordic country boasts a wealth of scenic biking routes, perfect for exploring its vast wilderness. Some of the most popular routes include the Turku archipelago trail (a 250-kilometre route through the Turku archipelago) and the Saimaa archipelago trail (a 150-kilometre route around Saimaa lake).

The extremely popular Urho Kekkonen National Park also offers excellent opportunities for biking, although with some limitations. With a territory of over 2,550 square kilometres, the park boasts an extensive network of marked trails and permits biking on a few unmarked routes. However, off-trail biking is not allowed.

In winter, adventurous travellers can hop on a fatbike and set out on a thrilling adventure through the snowy landscapes. With countless available scenic biking routes, exploring the country on two wheels is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland, regardless of the season.

Visit UNESCO-listed Old Rauma

Rauma, a charming town on the country’s western coast, is a genuine hidden gem and one of the best cities to see in Finland. Renowned for its historic district of Old Rauma, this town offers a fascinating insight into authentic Finnish culture.

Unlike many historic districts preserved merely as tourist attractions, Old Rauma is a living community with over 800 residents still residing there. Visitors are often amazed by the district’s beautiful wooden architecture, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Housed in the old town hall, the Rauma Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history and traditions of lacemaking.

Beyond Old Rauma, travellers can visit the 15th-century Church of the Holy Cross and admire Finnish art at the Rauma Art Museum. The Rauma Maritime Museum is the perfect place to learn about the town’s rich seafaring heritage, while the Kiikartorni observation tower offers a spectacular perspective of the town.

Slightly outside Rauma, another UNESCO-listed historical attraction awaits — the Sammallahdenmäki Bronze Age burial site. With its wealth of historical and cultural attractions, Rauma deserves to be listed among the best cities to visit in Finland.

Forage for cloudberries in Ranua

A woman picking cloudberries in Ranua, Finnish Lapland.

Ranua, a small, serene town in Finnish Lapland, entices travellers with its spectacular nature, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and kayaking in summer or snowmobiling and skiing in winter. Its main attraction is the Ranua Wildlife Park, home to over 50 Arctic species, including polar bears and Arctic foxes.

In mid-summer, however, Ranua attracts both Finns and foreign travellers for another reason — berry picking. Known as Finland’s “cloudberry capital,” Ranua, with its vast swamps, provides the perfect conditions for these Nordic berries to thrive. And locals boast a long-standing tradition of foraging for these luscious berries.

The cloudberry picking season is generally short, typically lasting from mid- to late July. During this time, travellers, equipped with mosquito repellent and a bucket, venture into the swamps and marshes to seek these prized berries. Foraging for cloudberries is not just about the harvest; it’s about connecting with nature and authentic Finnish experiences.

Every July, the town even hosts an annual cloudberry festival featuring markets, special events, and culinary treats. Travelling to Ranua and joining a Nordic berry-picking expedition is truly one of the unique things to do in Finland in summer.

Go island-hopping

Wintertime in the Turku archipelago, which boasts more than 20,000 islands and islets.

Finland, with its expansive archipelagos boasting tens of thousands of picturesque islands, is an ideal destination for island-hopping. And ferries provide easy access to the countless islands, allowing travellers to create their own personalized island-hopping itineraries.

The Åland Islands, Finland’s autonomous region with over 6,500 islands, are often listed among the best places to see in Finland. This archipelago boasts many charming historical towns, including Mariehamn, the region’s capital. These islands, many of which are connected by bridges and ferries, are perfect for a plethora of outdoor activities — from kayaking and sailing to cycling and fishing.

The Turku archipelago, the country’s largest with over 20,000 islands and inlets, is another popular destination, enticing travellers with charming villages and exciting outdoor adventures. Those staying in the capital can hop on a ferry for a short ride to the nearby archipelago, which is also home to the UNESCO-listed Suomenlinna fortress.

Other popular destinations for island hopping include the UNESCO-listed Kvarken archipelago near Vaasa and the Pellinge islands near Porvoo. With the country’s vast coastline along the Baltic Sea, island-hopping is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland in summer.

Learn the history of the whimsical Moomins

Moomin characters on a postcard. Credit: athichoke.pim – stock.adobe.com.

Finland is famous not only for its winter adventures in Lapland, serene lakes, and vast archipelagos, but also for the whimsical world of the Moomins. Created by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson, these lovable troll characters have captured the hearts of fans worldwide, who nowadays flock to this Nordic country to immerse themselves in the enchanting fantasy world.

For Moomin fans, Finland is a must-visit destination, boasting several noteworthy attractions. Naantali, a small town in southwestern Finland (near Turku), is home to the Moomin World theme park, which brings these beloved characters to life. Visitors can meet the characters, explore the Moominhouse and the Witch’s Hut, and enjoy a plethora of activities and attractions. Open mainly during the summer months, this theme park is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Finland for Moomin enthusiasts.

Tampere, Finland’s second-largest city, houses the unique Moomin Museum, showcasing a collection of Tove Jansson’s original works and a variety of Moomin-related artefacts. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about the Moomins’ history and delve deeper into the character stories.

Even in Helsinki, travellers will find numerous Moomin-themed cafés and shops. For true Moomin fans, Finland should be a top destination on their travel list.

Travel to Finland’s charming small towns and villages

The charming seaside town of Hanko, Finland.

Beyond Helsinki, Finland abounds with charming towns and villages, often overlooked by crowds of travellers. These understated destinations offer a unique glimpse into Finnish culture, history, and traditions.

Porvoo, located within a short ride from Helsinki, is widely regarded as one of the best places to visit in Finland. Its well-preserved historical centre, with cobblestone streets and colourful wooden houses, attracts many visitors. Travellers can visit the local Porvoo Museum, take a relaxing boat trip along the river, or chill out in one of the many cosy cafés.

Further afield, in the Lakeland region, lies Savonlinna, a remarkable town renowned for the medieval Olavinlinna castle and the stunning surrounding nature. To the north in Lapland, the small village of Inari offers not only exhilarating winter adventures but also a glimpse into authentic Sámi culture, making it one of the best places to see in Finland year-round. Fiskars, a small village nestled midway between Helsinki and Turku, is another great destination that boasts a well-preserved 17th-century ironworks district, showcasing Finland’s industrial heritage.

Travellers seeking to relax by the seaside can head south to explore the picturesque coastal towns of Hanko and Naantali. With its wealth of charming, low-key towns, Finland offers excellent opportunities for adventurers willing to travel off the beaten path.

Discover the Manchester of the North

Located in Lakeland Finland and renowned for its strong sauna traditions, Tampere earned the nickname “Manchester of the North” thanks to its rich industrial heritage. Regarded as one of the best cities to visit in Finland, Tampere attracts travellers with its vibrant arts scene, bike-friendliness, and relaxed atmosphere.

This dynamic city spoils visitors with a plethora of exciting things to do. Tampere is home to the fascinating Moomin Museum, dedicated to the fantasy world of these whimsical characters. Another popular local attraction is the Särkänniemi amusement park, featuring exhilarating rides, a planetarium, an aquarium, and an observation tower. For panoramic views, travellers can climb the iconic Pyynikki observation tower and enjoy the perspective of the city and the nearby lakes.

The Vapriikki Museum Centre is a highlight of Tampere, offering visitors a chance to visit the museums of history, media, and even hockey, all housed in a unique industrial complex. Travellers in the city can also explore the stone-clad Tampere cathedral and wander through the colourful Pispala district.

Within Finland, Tampere is famous for its ubiquitous public saunas and local delicacies, such as mustamakkara (traditional Finnish blood sausage) and kalakukko (fish pie, usually made with vendace, whitefish, or pike). With its wealth of cultural experiences and entertainment options, this lively city deserves a spot on everyone’s travel list.

Join a fishing adventure

With its extensive coastline along the Baltic Sea and a multitude of tranquil lakes, Finland is an angler’s paradise. This Nordic country also features the “everyman’s right,” which allows fishing in most public waters.

Given the abundance of water bodies, fishing is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland. The diverse range of fishing experiences is truly impressive — from lake and river fishing to fly and sea fishing. Those who aren’t afraid of the cold can even try ice fishing on a frozen lake in winter — a perfect choice for relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, offers excellent opportunities for fishing zander, pike, perch, and salmon. With numerous cosy cottages, hotels, and resorts along its shores, Saimaa lake is an ideal place for a peaceful escape. Other popular fishing destinations include Inari lake with its pristine waters, the Teno river (perfect for salmon fishing), and the Tampere region, which boasts over 2,500 lakes and is renowned as a zander paradise. The vast Archipelago Sea between Finland and Sweden is another must-visit destination for passionate anglers.

Fishing can also be combined with other exciting activities, such as boating, kayaking, or staying in a traditional Sámi hut. A fishing adventure in Finland guaranteed a unique and unforgettable experience in peaceful surroundings.

Attend a music festival

Despite its reputation as a tranquil destination, Finland is also one of Europe’s premier music festival hubs. Known for its vibrant rock and metal scene, the country’s numerous music festivals cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Held annually in early July in Turku, Ruisrock is one of Europe’s oldest rock festivals, which nowadays offers a diverse range of genres, including hip-hop, electronic music, and even pop. Flow festival, another popular event, takes place in Helsinki in August and features performances in various genres, from indie and electro to hip-hop.

But there are many more genre-specific events. Jazz aficionados will love the Pori Jazz festival, while fans of heavy music may prefer the Tuska open-air metal festival in Helsinki. In Savonlinna, visitors can even attend the annual opera festival, featuring world-class performances inside a medieval castle.

With most music festivals taking place during the warmer months, attending one is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Finland in summer.

Learn about the fascinating Sámi culture

Travelling to Lapland, a genuine wonderland that offers a world of exciting adventures, is one of the best things to do in Finland in winter. This pristine Arctic region is also home to the country’s large Sámi population — the indigenous people of northern Europe with a truly unique culture.

Adventurers venturing into Lapland should take the time to acquaint themselves with the fascinating Sámi culture. Visiting a reindeer farm is a great way to do this. During such a tour, travellers can interact with the Sámi people, learn about their reindeer herding practices, feed the animals, and even enjoy a reindeer sledding ride.

Inari, a charming village in Lapland, is also home to the Siida Museum, which explores the Sámi history, traditions, and culture. Visitors can see authentic Sámi clothing, handicrafts, and gain insight into the people’s deep connection with their land. Travellers can also attend live performances of Sámi music and learn about the cultural significance of joik, a traditional form of Sámi song with guttural sounds and improvisation.

Lapland is also a great place to shop for traditional handicrafts and purchase souvenirs for friends and family — look for the “Duodji” label to get authentic Sámi products. Overall, learning about the country’s indigenous Sámi people and their unique culture is undoubtedly one of the best ways to see Finland and experience its rich heritage.

Go birdwatching

Three-toed woodpecker in Oulanka National Park, Finland.

With its diverse landscapes and vast archipelagos, Finland is a haven for birdwatchers. This Nordic country boasts a plethora of destinations perfect for this activity — from the boreal forests in the south to the Arctic tundra in the north. With over 470 species (both resident and migratory), Finland offers a fascinating array of birdlife — from Arctic species to forest birds and waterfowl.

Liminka Bay, near the city of Oulu, is a top destination for birdwatching, attracting many migratory birds, such as waders and waterfowl. Further south, the Kokemäenjoki Delta is another popular stopover for migratory birds, hosting large numbers of swans, ducks, and geese. Near the capital, Nuuksio National Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, giving visitors a chance to observe woodpeckers, songbirds, and owls.

However, Finland’s best region for birdwatching is undoubtedly Lapland, which boasts the richest birdlife in the country. Oulanka National Park is a prime example, hosting an array of Arctic species, raptors, and owls. Kaamanen, an area near the village of Inari, is another excellent location for observing Arctic birds and other rare species, including Siberian jays and snowy owls.

Spring and autumn are generally the best times to visit Finland for birdwatching, making it one of the best things to do in Finland off-season.

Getting around

Navigating Finland’s expansive landscapes is surprisingly easy. The country boasts a comprehensive and reliable transportation system, with air, rail, road, and water options connecting various destinations — from bustling cities to remote villages. Finland’s modern cities are also extremely bike-friendly, making it easy to explore them on two wheels.

By car

Finland has a well-maintained road network and numerous rental companies, making exploration at your own pace easy and smooth. Drivers will especially appreciate the absence of toll roads, making driving a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the country.

However, travellers should be mindful of challenging driving conditions in winter, especially in Lapland, where certain roads may be closed during the off-season. Remember to use winter tyres, check road conditions regularly, and be aware of potential hazards like wildlife or icy patches.

By train

From Helsinki in the south to Lapland in the north, major cities and towns are connected by a vast railway network. Trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel, with options ranging from high-speed Pendolino trains to comfortable InterCity trains and even overnight sleeper services.

For a truly memorable journey, consider taking the scenic route from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, which passes through picturesque Arctic landscapes, or the coastal route along the Gulf of Finland, offering stunning sea views.

By bus

Generally more affordable than trains, buses connect larger towns and remote villages, especially those without railway connections. With Finland’s comprehensive bus network, operated by companies like Matkahuolto and Onnibus, reaching even the country’s most remote corners is easy. Popular long-distance routes include overnight buses from Helsinki to Lapland and routes connecting major cities.

By boat

Ferries are essential for travelling to Finland’s vast archipelagos in the Baltic Sea, connecting the mainland with countless nearby islands. Many ferry routes depart from Helsinki, Porvoo, Turku, and Naantali, with some even offering international connections to neighbouring Sweden and Estonia.

By plane

While Finland’s extensive bus and train network often makes air travel unnecessary, flying can be a lifesaver for longer distances, such as from Helsinki to Lapland in winter. Finland boasts numerous regional airports, served by domestic airlines like Finnair and Norwegian, making it easy to reach various destinations by air.

With its diverse and well-connected transportation network, Finland offers travellers the freedom to explore the country at their own pace and up to their preferences, guaranteeing a smooth and enjoyable journey.