Finland, often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, is a destination that perfectly blends the allure of pristine natural landscapes with a rich cultural heritage. From the enchanting Northern Lights and the midnight sun to the vibrant cities and tranquil wilderness, Finland offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, Finland has something special to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Finland.
Top 7 Things to Do in Finland
- Witness the Northern Lights in Lapland
- Explore Helsinki: Finland’s Capital City
- Experience the Midnight Sun in Northern Finland
- Visit the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
- Relax in a Traditional Finnish Sauna
- Explore the Archipelago Sea
- Experience Finnish Lapland in Winter
1. Witness the Northern Lights in Lapland
One of the most magical experiences in Finland is witnessing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is one of the best places in the world to see this natural light show.
- Best Time to Visit: The Northern Lights are most visible between late September and early April. The long, dark nights of winter provide the perfect backdrop for this ethereal phenomenon.
- Top Locations: Popular spots for Northern Lights viewing in Finland include Rovaniemi, Kakslauttanen, and Saariselkä. For an extra special experience, consider staying in a glass igloo or an Aurora cabin, where you can watch the lights dance across the sky from the comfort of your bed.
- Aurora Hunting: Joining a guided Northern Lights tour is a great way to increase your chances of seeing the lights. Local guides use their knowledge and experience to take you to the best viewing spots, often away from light pollution.
2. Explore Helsinki: Finland’s Capital City
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a vibrant city that perfectly blends modernity with tradition. Located on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Helsinki offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions.
- Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral: Senate Square is the heart of Helsinki, dominated by the majestic Helsinki Cathedral. This iconic neoclassical building is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and offers stunning views over the city.
- Suomenlinna Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna is a sea fortress built on a group of islands just off the coast of Helsinki. Take a short ferry ride from the city centre to explore this historical site, which is home to museums, cafes, and beautiful walking paths.
- Design District: Helsinki is known for its cutting-edge design, and the Design District is the perfect place to explore Finnish creativity. Wander through the district’s boutiques, galleries, and studios, where you can find everything from contemporary fashion to traditional crafts.
- Temppeliaukio Church: Also known as the Rock Church, this unique church is built directly into solid rock, creating an impressive architectural feat. The church’s natural stone walls and copper dome create a serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for concerts and events.
3. Experience the Midnight Sun in Northern Finland
In the summer months, northern Finland experiences the Midnight Sun, a natural phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set for several weeks. This creates a unique and surreal atmosphere, where you can enjoy endless days of sunshine.
- Best Time to Visit: The Midnight Sun is most visible between late May and mid-July. The further north you go, the longer the period of continuous daylight.
- Top Activities: Make the most of the Midnight Sun by engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Lapland’s stunning landscapes are particularly beautiful during this time, with the golden light of the Midnight Sun creating an almost otherworldly glow.
- Cultural Experiences: The Midnight Sun is also a time of celebration in Finland, with numerous festivals and events taking place. The Juhannus (Midsummer) festival, which marks the summer solstice, is one of the most important celebrations in Finnish culture, featuring bonfires, traditional music, and dancing.
4. Visit the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. This charming village is a must-visit destination for families and Christmas enthusiasts.
- Meet Santa Claus: The Santa Claus Village is open year-round, allowing you to meet Santa Claus in his office, send postcards from the official Santa Claus Post Office, and cross the magical Arctic Circle.
- Arctic Circle Husky Park: For an unforgettable experience, visit the Arctic Circle Husky Park, where you can meet friendly huskies and even take a sledge ride through the snowy forests.
- SantaPark: Located just a short distance from the Santa Claus Village, SantaPark is an indoor Christmas theme park where you can learn elf skills, visit Santa’s workshop, and explore the Ice Gallery.
- Northern Lights Hunting: Rovaniemi is also a great base for Northern Lights hunting, with numerous guided tours available. The combination of Christmas magic and the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis makes Rovaniemi a truly unique destination.
5. Relax in a Traditional Finnish Sauna
No visit to Finland would be complete without experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna. The sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, and there are over two million saunas in the country—nearly one for every household.
- Sauna Culture: In Finland, the sauna is more than just a place to relax; it’s a place to cleanse the body and mind. The traditional Finnish sauna involves sitting in a hot room heated by a wood stove, followed by a plunge into a cold lake or a roll in the snow.
- Public Saunas: If you’re visiting Helsinki, be sure to check out one of the city’s public saunas, such as Löyly or Kotiharjun Sauna. These saunas offer a unique cultural experience and are a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Sauna Experiences in Nature: For a more authentic experience, head to the Finnish countryside, where you can enjoy a sauna by a lake, surrounded by nature. Many cabins and cottages in Finland come with their private saunas, allowing you to experience this Finnish tradition in its most traditional setting.
6. Explore the Archipelago Sea
The Archipelago Sea, located in southwestern Finland, is one of the world’s largest archipelagos, with over 20,000 islands and islets. This region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of maritime culture and natural beauty.
- Island Hopping: One of the best ways to explore the Archipelago Sea is by island hopping. Take a ferry or rent a boat to visit some of the larger islands, such as Åland, Nauvo, and Korpo, each with its unique charm.
- Åland Islands: The Åland Islands are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture and history. The islands are known for their beautiful landscapes, rich maritime heritage, and traditional wooden houses. Explore the capital, Mariehamn, visit the medieval Kastelholm Castle and enjoy the local cuisine, which often features fresh seafood and locally grown produce.
- Cycling and Hiking: The Archipelago Sea is a great destination for cycling and hiking, with numerous trails that take you through scenic landscapes, charming villages, and coastal meadows. The Archipelago Trail is a popular route that connects many of the islands via bridges and ferries, offering a unique way to explore the region.
- Kayaking: The calm waters of the Archipelago Sea are perfect for kayaking, allowing you to explore the smaller islands and hidden coves at your own pace. Kayaking tours are available for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.
7. Experience Finnish Lapland in Winter
Finnish Lapland is a winter wonderland, offering a wide range of activities and experiences that make the most of the snowy landscape. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Lapland has something for everyone.
- Husky Sledding: One of the most popular activities in Lapland is husky sledging. Join a guided tour and experience the thrill of being pulled through the snowy wilderness by a team of eager huskies.
- Snowmobiling: Explore the vast landscapes of Lapland on a snowmobile, with guided tours taking you through forests, across frozen lakes, and up to scenic viewpoints. Snowmobiling is a great way to cover a lot of ground and experience the beauty of Lapland.
- Reindeer Safaris: Get up close and personal with one of Lapland’s most iconic animals on a reindeer safari. Led by local herders, these tours offer a unique insight into the traditional Sami way of life, as well as the chance to ride in a reindeer-drawn sleigh.
- Ice Fishing: Try your hand at ice fishing, a traditional Finnish pastime. With the help of a local guide, you can drill a hole in the ice, drop a line, and wait for the fish to bite. It’s a peaceful and meditative way to enjoy the winter landscape.
Conclusion
Finland is a country of extraordinary natural beauty, rich culture, and unique experiences. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, exploring the vibrant city of Helsinki, or relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna, every moment in Finland offers a chance to create unforgettable memories.