Finland

Finland: general info for travelers

Finland is a Northern European country located in the Fennoscandian region with Helsinki as its capital city. It's known for its stunning landscapes including thousands of lakes, forests, and islands. Finland is also known for the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, which can be seen during winter in some areas. Finnish traditions include sauna sessions, ice swimming, and eating reindeer meat. The country has a rich culture and history, including being home to the indigenous Sami people who have their own unique language and customs. Finland is also known for its education system and as being home to top companies like Nokia and Rovio (creator of Angry Birds).

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Finland, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Finland: places to visit

Certainly! Here are some of the must-visit places in Finland: 1. Helsinki - Finland's capital and largest city which boasts of its vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and amazing cuisine.
2. Lapland - a winter wonderland where you can witness the magical Northern Lights, go skiing, snowmobiling, and visit Santa Claus' village.
3. Turku - an ancient city with a rich history featuring an array of museums, galleries, and medieval architecture, including the Turku Castle.
4. Tampere - the third-largest city and an industrial hub with a rich cultural heritage. Here you can explore various museums and art galleries.
5. Rovaniemi - located in the Arctic Circle, the official hometown of Santa Claus and also a great place for snow activities during the winter season.
6. Rauma - a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see preserved wooden houses from the 18th century and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
7. Savonlinna - home to the famous Olavinlinna Castle, which hosts the annual Savonlinna Opera Festival.
8. Åland Islands - an autonomous Swedish-speaking province where you can admire the stunning natural surroundings, visit local handicraft shops, and enjoy a leisurely ferry ride.
9. Koli National Park - a magnificent national park with rolling hills and stunning panoramic views of forests, lakes, and wilderness.
10. Porvoo - an idyllic small town with lively streets featuring cafes, galleries, and charming boutiques. Finland is a country of unique natural beauty, rich culture, and amazing food. These places are just a few of the many wonderful destinations worth exploring.
There is more to see and do in Finland: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Finland: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Finland, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Finland is a country with a diverse climate, and the weather varies depending on the season and location in the country. Winter (December - February) in Finland is cold with plenty of snow, making it the perfect destination for winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and husky rides. In Lapland, the temperature can drop to as low as -30°C (-22°F).
Spring (March - May) is when Finland starts to thaw out with the temperature gradually rising, bringing longer and milder days. It's a great time to visit Finnish Lapland to see the Northern Lights, as there is still plenty of snow on the ground.
Summer (June - August) is the warmest season with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). The days are long, and Finland experiences the midnight sun phenomenon in the northernmost part of the country. It's the perfect time to go hiking or camping in the Finnish wilderness.
Autumn (September - November) is a season of brilliant colors as the leaves change, but it also brings cooler temperatures, especially in Lapland. It is also a great time to see the Northern Lights.
The best time to visit Finland on holiday truly depends on what you are looking for. For winter activities, visit during December to February, while summer activities are best during the months of June to August. For those who want to witness the Northern Lights, it's best to visit Lapland in the winter or autumn.

Finland: activities and what to do

Finland is a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures and sports enthusiasts. Here are some popular activities to consider while on your holiday: 1. Hiking: With over 40 national parks, Finland offers plenty of opportunities for hiking in some of the most scenic and untouched landscapes in Europe. Some popular trails include the Karhunkierros Trail and the Urho Kekkonen National Park.
2. Skiing: Finland is known for its excellent skiing conditions with its vast network of ski resorts and cross-country trails. Popular ski resorts in Finland include Levi, Ylläs, and Ruka.
3. Ice fishing: Ice fishing is a popular winter activity in Finland, and many lakes and rivers freeze over during the colder months, providing ideal conditions for ice fishing. You can catch fish such as perch, pike, and salmon, and enjoy a fun day out on the ice.
4. Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling tours are great for exploring the snowy wilderness of Finland. The tours are accompanied by local guides who will take you on exciting trails through the snow-covered forests.
5. Sauna: The sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture, and many people enjoy visiting the many traditional saunas found throughout the country. There are even floating saunas that allow you to relax while taking in the stunning Finnish scenery.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports to enjoy on holiday in Finland.

Finland: few words on history and culture

Finland is a Nordic country located in Northern Europe. The country has a rich history and culture that dates back to prehistoric times. The earliest known inhabitants of Finland were the Sami people, who lived in the northern regions of the country.
During the Viking Age, Finland was part of the Swedish Empire, and it was not until 1809 that Finland became a Grand Duchy under the Russian Empire. Finland declared independence from Russia in 1917, and it became an independent nation in 1918.
Finnish culture is heavily influenced by its geography and history. The harsh winter climate, the long summer days, and the vast forests and lakes have all played a role in shaping Finnish society. Finnish people are known for their love of nature, and many outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing are popular.
Traditionally, Finnish culture is based on a strong sense of community and equality. Finnish people value honesty and integrity, and they are known for their quiet and reserved nature. Finnish cuisine is centered around hearty and simple dishes, and many dishes feature local ingredients such as fish, potatoes, and mushrooms.
In modern times, Finland is known for its high standards of education, innovation, and design. The country is home to several world-renowned brands such as Nokia, Rovio (maker of Angry Birds), and Marimekko (a design company).

Finland: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Finland depends on where you are traveling from and your budget. If you are arriving internationally, then the best way to reach Finland is by air. Helsinki Airport is the main international gateway to Finland, serving a wide range of airlines from various destinations all around the world. Domestic flights connect Helsinki to other parts of the country.
Once you are in Finland, the most convenient and efficient ways to get around are either by train or by bus. Trains are comfortable and efficient and cover most parts of the country. Buses are also an excellent option and operate on a vast and well-connected route network.
If you prefer to drive, then you may consider renting a car. Finland has a well-maintained road network, and driving is relatively easy, especially in rural areas. Another popular option for visitors is to travel by ferry. To reach the Åland Islands or to connect to nearby countries like Estonia and Sweden, you can take a ferry from Helsinki Harbor. To hire a car to visit Finland, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Finland: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Finland with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Finland: 1. Salmiakki - This is a popular Finnish candy that is flavored with ammonium chloride, giving it a salty and bitter taste.
2. Rye bread - This dark, dense bread is a staple of Finnish cuisine and is often served with butter or cheese.
3. Reindeer meat - Reindeer meat is a popular meat in Finland, and it's often prepared as a stew or roasted.
4. Karjalanpiirakka - This is a traditional Finnish pastry that is made with rye flour and filled with rice pudding or mashed potatoes.
5. Kalakukko - This is a traditional Finnish fish pie that is made with rye flour, fish, and bacon. 6. Leipäjuusto - This is a cheese made of cow's milk, heated and served fresh with cloudberry jam. 7. Poronkäristys - This is a traditional dish made of reindeer meat. The meat is diced and sautéed, before being served with mashed potatoes, lingonberry, and pickles.
These are just some of the delicious foods you can expect to find in Finland.

Finland: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Finland can be a fairly expensive country for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, transport, and activities can all add up quickly. However, there are ways to save money such as staying in budget accommodations, using public transportation, and taking advantage of free attractions and activities. Also, it's important to keep in mind that Finland has a high standard of living and the prices reflect that. Nevertheless, the unique experiences and stunning natural beauty of the country make it worth visiting.

Finland: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Finland, depending on your preferences and budget. 1. Hotels: There are numerous hotels in most cities and popular tourist areas. Booking websites such as Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com are useful for finding and comparing prices.
2. Hostels: Hostels are a more budget-friendly option. Hostelworld.com is a popular website for booking hostels in Finland.
3. Airbnb: Airbnb is also a popular option, offering private rooms, apartments, and houses for rent directly from hosts.
4. Camping: There are plenty of options for camping in Finland, including campsites and national parks. Booking in advance is recommended during the high season (June-August).
5. Couchsurfing: If you're on a tight budget, Couchsurfing is a great way to stay with locals for free. It's also a great way to meet new people and get an authentic local experience.
Overall, it's a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability, especially during the high season.
You can check hotel prices in Finland here:
Booking.com

Finland: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Finland receives around 6 million tourists annually, with the majority of visitors coming during the summer months from May to August. The peak season is usually during the midsummer period in late June when many Finns take their summer vacation. Helsinki can also be quite busy in December during the Christmas markets and holiday season. Overall, while there may be some busy periods, Finland usually has more of a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, especially in the cities outside of peak season.
Finland is a safe and peaceful country, and overall, it's considered one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime rates are very low, and tourists can feel safe traveling around the country. However, as with any destination, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid any potential risks. As for places to be avoided, there are no significant danger zones in Finland that would pose an explicit threat to tourists. However, as with any country, certain areas of larger cities may have higher crime rates or areas that are less safe at night. For instance, in Helsinki, you may want to avoid the Kallio district at night, which is known for its nightlife but also has a higher crime rate. Overall, Finland is considered a safe destination for tourists, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any serious safety issues. It's always wise to keep an eye on your belongings, avoid unfamiliar areas at night, and take normal safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Finland on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Finland: events for tourists

Finland has a lot of interesting events and festivals throughout the year that are popular with tourists. Some of the most interesting events are: 1. Helsinki Music Centre - offers a variety of classical, jazz and world music concerts throughout the year.
2. Finnish Film Festival - showcases the latest Finnish movies and international films in different cities of Finland.
3. Midsummer Festival - celebrated in June, it's the most popular of all Finnish festivals and involves bonfires, traditional foods, and flower-arranging.
4. Santa Claus Village - located in Rovaniemi, it's a favorite destination for children and adults who want to meet Santa Claus and enjoy winter activities.
5. Sibelius Festival - held in Lahti, this annual festival honors the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
6. Helsinki Design Week - presents the latest trends and designs in fashion, graphic design, and architecture.
7. SnowCastle - this unique attraction in Kemi features a massive fortress built entirely from snow and ice.
These events are just a few examples of what Finland has to offer. Depending on your interests, there are many other events and festivals that you might find interesting.

Finland: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Finland, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here is a recommended two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Finland: Day 1-3: Helsinki Explore the capital, Helsinki. Visit landmarks like the Helsinki Cathedral and Suomenlinna Fortress, as well as the National Museum of Finland. Experience Finnish culture by trying the traditional dish Karelian pie and visiting the Market Square.
Day 4-5: Tampere Head to Tampere, the hometown of the Finnish industrial revolution. Visit the Vapriikki Museum Centre and the Lenin Museum. Take a stroll along the Pyynikki Observation Tower for stunning views of the city.
Day 6-7: Turku Turku is Finland's oldest city and a cultural hub. Visit the Turku Castle, the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova museum, and the Turku Art Museum. Take a river cruise along the Aura River or enjoy the famous Finnish Sauna.
Day 8-9: Archipelago National Park Take a ferry to the Archipelago National Park, an idyllic cluster of over 50,000 small islands in the Baltic Sea. Enjoy hiking, cycling, and kayaking while admiring the natural beauty of the archipelago.
Day 10-12: Lapland Visit Lapland, famous for its natural beauty and winter activities. Go dog sledding, ride a reindeer sleigh, and hunt for the Northern Lights. You can also visit the Arktikum Science Museum and the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
Day 13-14: Oulu Finish your trip in Oulu, the gateway to Northern Finland. Visit the delightful Hupisaaret Park, Oulu Castle, and the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum. Don't miss the Toripolliisi statue on the market square.
I hope you find this itinerary useful and that you have a great trip to Finland!

Finland: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Finland described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Espoo is a city located in southern Finland, bordering the capital city of Helsinki to the east. It is the second-largest city in Finland with a population of around 295,000 people. Espoo is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Espoo
- Hanko is a coastal town located in the Uusimaa region of southern Finland. It is situated on a peninsula that extends into the Gulf of Finland, and it has a population of approximately 9,000 people. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hanko
- Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, situated on the southern coast of the country, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland. With a population of over 640,000, it is the most populous city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Helsinki
- Hyvinkää is a small city located in southern Finland, about 50 kilometers north of the city of Helsinki. It has a population of approximately 47,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural scene... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hyvinkää
- Hämeenlinna is a city located in the southern part of Finland, about 100 km north of Helsinki. It has a population of approximately 68,000 people and is the administrative center of the region of Kant... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hämeenlinna
- Iisalmi is a town located in the North Savo region of Finland. The town has a population of around 22,000 people and is situated on the shores of Lake Porovesi. It is known for its beautiful natural s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iisalmi
- Imatra is a city located in southeastern Finland, near the Russian border. With a population of around 27,000 inhabitants, it is the third-largest city in the region of South Karelia. Imatra is famous... CONTINUE here for a trip to Imatra
- Joensuu is a city located in the eastern part of Finland, situated near the Russian border. It is the capital of the North Karelia region, and it has a population of around 76,000. The city is known f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Joensuu
- Jyväskylä is a city in Finland located in the central part of the country, about 270 kilometers north of Helsinki. It is the largest city in the region of Central Finland and has a population of aroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jyväskylä
- Jämsä is a town located in the Central Finland region of Finland. It has a population of around 21,000 people and is known for its beautiful lakes, forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Som... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jämsä
- Järvenpää is a town located in Uusimaa, southern Finland, with a population of around 43,000 inhabitants. It is situated about 37 kilometers north of Helsinki and is easily accessible by train or bus.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Järvenpää
- Kajaani is a city located in the central part of Finland, in the region of Kainuu. It has a population of around 38,000 people and it is known for its beautiful nature and outdoor activities such as h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kajaani
- Kauniainen is a small, affluent city located in southern Finland, near the capital city of Helsinki. With a population of around 10,000, it is one of the smallest cities in Finland, but it is renowned... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kauniainen
- Kemi is a city located in the Lapland region of Finland, with a population of around 22,000 people. Known for its picturesque location on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, Kemi is home to the world's... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kemi
- Kemijärvi is a town located in the Lapland region of Finland. It is situated in the northern part of the country, about 130 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle and 100 kilometers east of the city of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kemijärvi
- Kempele is a municipality in Northern Finland, located in the region of Northern Ostrobothnia. It covers an area of approximately 253 square kilometers and has a population of around 18,000 people. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kempele
- Kerava is a small city located in the Uusimaa region of southern Finland. It is situated approximately 30 kilometers north-east of Helsinki, the capital of Finland. The city has a population of about ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kerava
- Kokkola is a city located on the west coast of Finland. It has a population of around 47,000 residents and is known for its beautiful historic wooden architecture, as well as its vibrant cultural scen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kokkola
- Kotka is a city located on the southeastern coast of Finland, in the region of Kymenlaakso. It has a population of approximately 52,000 inhabitants. The city is known for its maritime history and is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kotka
- Kouvola is a city in southeastern Finland, located about 140 kilometers northeast of the capital Helsinki. It is the tenth largest city in Finland and is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kouvola
- Kuopio is a city located in the eastern part of Finland, about 380 kilometers north of the capital city, Helsinki. It is the ninth largest city in Finland, with a population of about 119,000 people. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kuopio
- Kuusamo is a town in Northern Finland located near the Russian border. It's known for its beautiful nature, wilderness areas, and national parks. In the winter, it's a popular destination for skiing, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kuusamo
- Lahti is a city located in southern Finland, around 100 kilometers northeast of the capital Helsinki. It is the eighth-largest city in Finland with a population of around 120,000 people. Lahti is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lahti
- Lappeenranta is a city located in southeastern Finland, near the Russian border. It is situated on the shore of Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, and has a population of around 73,000 people. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lappeenranta
- Lohja is a town located in southern Finland, about 60 kilometers west of Helsinki. It is the administrative center of the Lohja sub-region and has a population of around 48,000 people. The town covers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lohja
- Mariehamn is a town and the capital of the Åland Islands, an autonomous territory of Finland. It has a population of approximately 11,000 people and is located on the island of Åland in the Baltic Sea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mariehamn
- Mikkeli is a town located in the southern part of Finland, in the province of Eastern Finland. It is the capital of the region of South Savonia. Mikkeli has a population of about 54,000 people and it ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mikkeli
- Naantali is a beautiful town located on the southwest coast of Finland, situated on the shores of the Gulf of Finland. With a population of around 20,000 people, it is one of the oldest towns in the c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Naantali
- Nurmijärvi is a municipality located in southern Finland, about 40 kilometers north of Helsinki. It has a population of approximately 43,000 people and covers an area of 362.46 square kilometers. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nurmijärvi
- Nurmo is a municipality located in the western part of Finland, in the region of South Ostrobothnia. The municipality has a population of around 9,500 inhabitants and covers an area of about 399 squar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nurmo
- Oulu is a city located in northern Finland, with a population of approximately 200,000 people. It sits on the Gulf of Bothnia, which is part of the Baltic Sea. Oulu is known for its high-tech industry... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oulu
- Paimio is a town located in southwestern Finland, about 140 kilometers from Helsinki. It's surrounded by forests and lakes and has a population of around 11,000 people. Paimio is famous for its functi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paimio
- Pori is a city located on the west coast of Finland, with a population of approximately 85,000 people. It is known as a cultural center of the Satakunta region, hosting several annual events suc... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pori
- Porvoo is a charming city located in southern Finland, about 50 kilometers east of Helsinki. The city is known for its well-preserved old town, which features colorful wooden houses and narrow cobbles... CONTINUE here for a trip to Porvoo
- Rauma is a coastal town located in western Finland, known for its unique and well-preserved wooden old town, which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. Rauma has a population of aro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rauma
- Riihimäki is a small city located in southern Finland, about 70 kilometers north of Helsinki. It has a population of approximately 30,000 people and covers an area of about 34 square kilometers. Riihi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Riihimäki
- Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland, located in northern Finland, just a few kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. It is mostly known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and is a popular destinat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rovaniemi
- Salo is a town located in the southern part of Finland, in the province of Western Finland and the region of Southwest Finland. It has a population of about 53,000 people and an area of 1,279.19 squar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salo
- Savonlinna is a small city located in southeastern Finland. It is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the lake Saimaa, which is the largest lake in Finland. The city is known for the Olavinlinna Cas... CONTINUE here for a trip to Savonlinna
- Seinäjoki is a city located in western Finland. It is the regional center of South Ostrobothnia and has a population of over 63,000 people. Seinäjoki is known for its numerous cultural events such as ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Seinäjoki
- Sipoo is a municipality in the province of Southern Finland and is located in Uusimaa region, just east of Helsinki. It covers an area of approximately 695 square kilometers and has a population of ar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sipoo
- Tampere is a city located in southern Finland. It is the third-largest city in the country and is known for its industrial heritage, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. The city is situated betw... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tampere
- Tornio is a town located in the Lapland region of Finland. It is situated on the border between Finland and Sweden, with the Tornio River separating the two countries. Tornio has a population of appro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tornio
- Turku is a city located on the southwest coast of Finland and is the oldest city in the country. It is the former capital of Finland and has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Today, the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turku
- Vaasa is a city in western Finland located on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. It is the regional capital of Ostrobothnia and has a population of approximately 67,000 people. The city has a strong Sw... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vaasa
- Vantaa is a city located in southern Finland, about 20 kilometers north of the capital Helsinki. It is the fourth largest city in Finland in terms of population. Vantaa is known for its international ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vantaa
- Vihti is a municipality located in the Uusimaa region of southern Finland. It has a population of approximately 29,000 people and covers an area of 519 square kilometers. The landscape of Vihti is cha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vihti
- Ylivieska is a town situated in the Northern Ostrobothnia region of Finland. It has a population of around 15,000 people and it is known for its beautiful landscape, forests, and lakes. Ylivieska offe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ylivieska


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: