If you’re planning a trip to Finland, seeing the Northern Lights is likely at the top of your list. During the winter, the country’s northernmost region, Lapland, is known as one of the best places in the world to see the famous natural light show. Seeing the Northern Lights may be an amazing experience, but it’s only one of the many reasons to visit this Nordic country.
Adventurous travelers and those who prefer fresh air over indoor activities will feel right at home in Finland. Nicknamed the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” the country is home to around 188,000 lakes, offering activities like ice fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and cruising. Finland is also covered in lush forests and vast expanses of nature. In fact, it is home to 41 national parks, all of which boast Finnish landscapes, flora, and fauna diversity. Spending time in the great outdoors is essential to understanding Finland and what makes it special. So, make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a trip to Lake Päijänne or Nuuksio National Park. “While everyday life in all Nordic countries is similar, I think Finns value silence and nature even more,” says Riitta Kiukas, CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour. “An hour in the forest every day makes me happy.” To discover the secrets of Finnish happiness, explore other destinations like Helsinki (the country’s capital), Rovaniemi (home of Santa Claus), and the country’s traditional sauna.
Consider setting aside at least five to seven days to see the country. “Finland is large geographically and the distances are long, so I recommend setting aside at least a week,” Kiukas says. And if you get lost or need help during your trip, don’t be afraid to ask a Finn for help. “I think one of the biggest misconceptions about Finland is that the people are very reserved and cold. And while that may be true for some, most people are really kind and warm, and won’t hesitate to pitch in and help someone out,” says Eero Vottonen, chef at Michelin-starred Palace restaurant in Helsinki.
Meet Our Experts
Riitta Kiukas is CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour, a Finnish travel agency offering a range of tours and experiences.
Eero Vottonen is an award-winning Finnish chef from the two-Michelin-starred restaurant Palace in Helsinki.
Want to know more about what this Nordic country has to offer? Check out these 15 best places to visit in Finland as recommended by locals.
Related: The Best Time to Visit Finland for Outdoor Adventures, Northern Lights Viewing, and More
Helsinki
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Helsinki is not only the capital of Finland, but also a gateway for exploring the rest of Finland, especially for international travelers. Like many European cities, Helsinki combines history, founded in 1550, with modern art, architecture, and a multitude of excellent restaurants and cafes. For a culturally enriching experience, be sure to visit Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art, the Design Museum, and Gallery Forsblom.
Aland Islands
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The Åland archipelago is made up of around 6,700 islands. Chef Vuttonen points out the “beautiful scenery with lots to explore,” especially in the summer months. The borough is perfect for island hopping, and the inhabited islands are connected by ferry. If you’re not sure where to start, Kiukas suggests Kokal, a “small island with a unique archipelago nature.” “Our guests love everything there, and many of them choose to cycle around the Åland archipelago,” she says.
Tampere
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Sauna is at the heart of Finnish culture, and Tampere holds the title of “Sauna Capital of the World” and has the most public saunas in Finland (55 and counting). Chef Vottonen describes his former home as “the easiest place to be.” [most] “A calming atmosphere.” For a traditional sauna experience, book a session at Rajaporti, the country’s oldest functioning public sauna.
Nuuksio National Park
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“Finns have a connection with nature and forests,” says Chef Vottonen. “Hiking and walking in the forest is [our] One look at our amazing national parks will show you why. [They’re] They’re usually very well maintained, and you can even book indoor sleeping.” Nuuksio National Park is easily accessible from Helsinki, and overnight travelers can book a cozy cabin to sleep off after enjoying some hiking, swimming, or cycling in the park.
Turku
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As Finland’s oldest city and former capital, Turku is a must-visit for any traveler with an interest in Nordic cuisine. Travel + Leisure journalist Tom Vanderbilt features Smør and Michelin-starred Kaskis in his guide to Turku, but the riverside city also offers a variety of other restaurants and activities to fill your day. Most notable are the 13th-century Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, and the open-air Market Square.
Posio
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Kiukas added Posio, Finland’s most sustainable village, to her list of the best places to visit in the country. Located in Lapland, Posio is perfect for “individuals and small groups looking for an authentic experience,” she says. The village is also the epicenter of Finnish pottery culture, and the world’s northernmost pottery factory, Pentik, and the Arctic Ceramic Centre are both based in Posio.
Suomenlinna
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The islands near Helsinki are home to Suomenlinna, an 18th-century sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Chef Vottonen calls it a “must-visit summer destination” and encourages visitors to “have a picnic, swim in the sea, and enjoy the restaurants.” Those interested in the sea fortress’ history can learn more at the six on-site museums.
Finnish Lake District
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Finnish Lake District is the largest lake region in Europe, and the region has a variety of towns, villages, and water bodies to explore. Kiukas recommends starting in Hämeenlinna or Lahti. “They’re towns in southern Finland that many tourists pass right by because they’re so close to Helsinki,” she says. “This is where Lake District begins and you get a taste of country life. Slow down and enjoy the silence, the lakes, and the surrounding nature,” she says.
Ranua Wildlife Park
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If you want to see polar bears, lynx, arctic foxes and many other Arctic animals, head to Ranua Wildlife Park, about an hour’s drive south of Rovaniemi. The animals live in enclosures in the middle of the northern coniferous forest, and the park is open all year round.
Porvoo
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For a taste of Finnish history, Chef Vottonen recommends a visit to Porvoo, Finland’s second oldest city.[It’s] “It’s just a short drive from Helsinki,” he says, and visitors can also “take a boat ride… and see the beautiful coastline.” Porvoo Old Town is known for its traditional red-painted wooden houses along the Porvoonjoki River, with cobblestone streets and quaint cafes making it a picturesque landscape for visitors and locals alike.
Levi
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Winter sports enthusiasts should visit Levi, Finland’s largest ski resort. Levi offers skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, winter hiking and snowshoeing, and is also a great place to see the Northern Lights. The show is best seen on clear nights, but you can also join a guided tour to enjoy the best views.
Varkaus
Kiukas calls Varkaus a “hidden gem on the shores of Lake Saimaa” and says it offers “a contrast between the pure nature of the lake and its industrial heritage.” With easy access to the surrounding lakes and canals, it’s a popular destination for waterway travelers. When you’re not exploring the waterways, you can stop by the Mechanical Music Museum (please put quotation marks around “museum”), the Taipare Canal Museum, or the Väinola Art Centre.
Lemmenjoki National Park
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Finland’s largest national park, Lemmenjoki, is known for its natural beauty and gold mining history. You can explore the area by hiking, canoeing, or boating on the Lemmenjoki River. Travelers can also get a glimpse into the culture of the indigenous Sámi people. The park features old dwellings and hunting grounds.
Fiskars
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Kiukas recommends that visitors to Finland stop off in Fiskars, “an example of an old industrial village that provides workspace for artisans and artists.” Dubbed a “home of creativity,” the village is the birthplace of Fiskars, a well-known Finnish company that makes cooking, gardening and craft products, including the world’s first plastic-handled scissors.
