Top Things to Do in Finland: Nature, Culture, and Adventure in the Land of a Thousand Lakes
Finland, often known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, is a Nordic treasure brimming with pristine wilderness, rich folklore, fascinating architecture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, exploring Helsinki’s vibrant design scene, or canoeing through crystal-clear lakes, Finland is a year-round destination that enchants every kind of traveler.
Finland cities, nature, adventure, culture, food, and seasonal highlights. Let’s explore what makes Finland one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world.
Explore Helsinki: Finland’s Capital of Cool
Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is a stylish and compact coastal hub blending modern design with historical charm. Here are the must-see experiences in Helsinki:
Visit Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square
This neoclassical masterpiece is the iconic face of Helsinki. Climb the steps and enjoy panoramic views of the square below.
Wander Around Market Square
Near the harbor, you’ll find the bustling Kauppatori (Market Square), where local vendors sell berries, salmon soup, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Experience Finnish Design at Design District
Finland is world-famous for minimalist design. Visit the Design Museum, Marimekko stores, and boutiques featuring local designers.
Relax in Loyly or Allas Sea Pool
Enjoy a modern Finnish sauna by the sea, followed by a dip in the Baltic waters. Loyly’s architecture alone is worth the trip.
Visit Temppeliaukio (Rock Church)
Carved into solid rock, this unique Lutheran church is known for its acoustics and spiritual ambiance.
Chase the Northern Lights in Lapland
If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, head to Finnish Lapland in winter.
Best Places to See the Aurora
- Rovaniemi: The capital of Lapland, also home to Santa Claus Village.
- Saariselka and Ivalo: Less crowded, perfect for aurora spotting and snow adventures.
- Kilpisjarvi: In the far north, with high aurora visibility due to minimal light pollution.
Tips for Aurora Hunting
- Visit between September and March.
- Check aurora forecasts.
- Stay for multiple nights to increase chances.
- Unique Experiences
- Stay in a glass igloo or aurora cabin.
- Try aurora snowshoeing or aurora chasing by snowmobile.
Visit Santa Claus in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is a magical place for travelers of all ages.
Things to Do in Rovaniemi
- Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, send a postcard from the official Santa Post Office.
- SantaPark Arctic World: An underground Christmas theme park.
- Arktikum Museum: Learn about the Arctic region, Sami culture, and Northern Lights.
Enjoy Finnish Sauna Culture
The sauna is deeply ingrained in Finnish life. With over 2 million saunas in a country of 5.5 million people, it’s a way of life.
Where to Try a Sauna
- Traditional smoke sauna: Try in places like Savonlinna or lakeside cottages.
- Urban saunas: Loyly (Helsinki), Rajaportin sauna (Tampere), or Kuuma (Tampere).
- Ice dipping: Combine sauna with a dip into an ice hole in winter—invigorating and truly Finnish!
Sauna Etiquette
- Shower before entering.
- Nudity is common in same-gender saunas.
- Don’t stay too long; take breaks and hydrate.
Discover the Finnish Lakeland
Finland’s central and eastern regions are filled with lakes, forests, and islands. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful retreat or water-based adventure.
Top Experiences in Lakeland
- Canoeing or kayaking across Lake Saimaa.
- Stay in a lakeside cottage (mokki) with your own sauna.
- Cruise in Savonlinna, home to the medieval Olavinlinna Castle.
- Fishing, berry-picking, and hiking through the vast national parks.
National Parks to Explore
- Koli National Park: Famous for panoramic views of Lake Pielinen.
- Linnansaari and Kolovesi: Ideal for paddling and spotting endangered Saimaa ringed seals.
Adventure in the Finnish Wilderness
- Finland’s vast forests, fell regions, and tundras offer year-round adventure.
- Summer Activities
- Hiking in Lapland’s national parks like Urho Kekkonen or Pallas-Yllastunturi.
- Cycling along forest trails.
- Canoeing and wild swimming in the many lakes and rivers.
Winter Activities
- Husky safaris and reindeer sleigh rides in Lapland.
- Skiing and snowboarding in Levi, Yllas, or Ruka.
- Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing.
- Everyman’s Right (Jokamiehen Oikeudet)
This Finnish law allows anyone to roam freely in nature: camp, forage, and hike—as long as you respect the environment.
Experience Sami Culture in Northern Finland
- The Sami people, indigenous to Lapland, have a vibrant and living culture.
- Where to Learn About Sami Culture
- Siida Museum in Inari: Traditional crafts, reindeer herding, and spiritual heritage.
- Sami festivals: Experience music, storytelling, and cultural performances.
- Reindeer farms and joik singing: Participate in guided cultural experiences.
- Respect for Sami traditions and customs is essential. Always choose tours that are Sami-led and ethical.
Take the Train Across Arctic Circle
- Finland’s train network is clean, efficient, and scenic.
- Recommended Rail Journeys
- Helsinki to Rovaniemi: Overnight sleeper train known as the Santa Claus Express.
- Helsinki to Tampere or Turku: Fast day trips to vibrant cities.
- You can even take your car on the train to Lapland, then explore on your own.
Taste Finnish Cuisine
Finnish food is hearty, seasonal, and often locally foraged. While simple, it reflects a deep connection to nature.
Must-Try Dishes
- Karjalanpiirakka: Karelian rice pies with egg butter.
- Kalakukko: Savory fish and pork pie.
- Ruisleipa: Rye bread, a Finnish staple.
- Poronkaristys: Sautéed reindeer with mashed potatoes and lingonberry.
- Lohikeitto: Creamy salmon soup.
- Salmiakki: Love-it-or-hate-it salty licorice.
Where to Eat
- Traditional taverns (kellari) in cities.
- Lapland-themed restaurants in Rovaniemi or Helsinki.
- Seasonal markets: Enjoy fresh berries, mushrooms, fish, and street snacks.
Celebrate Finnish Festivals and Culture
Finland’s festivals reflect its deep-rooted traditions, love for music, and seasonal rhythms.
Popular Celebrations
- Juhannus (Midsummer): Huge bonfires, lake parties, and all-night sunshine.
- Christmas in Lapland: A magical wonderland with reindeer and elves.
- Vappu (May Day): Students and families celebrate spring with balloons, picnics, and doughnuts.
- Flow Festival (Helsinki): International music festival featuring art, sustainability, and urban culture.
Discover Historic Towns and Coastal Beauty
Finland’s towns offer history, sea views, and slow travel charm.
Top Picks
- Porvoo: Cobblestone streets and red riverside houses.
- Turku: Finland’s oldest city with a medieval castle and riverside cafés.
- Rauma: UNESCO-listed Old Rauma with wooden houses and lace-making traditions.
- Hanko: A summer paradise with sandy beaches and Swedish-Finnish culture.
Visit the Aland Islands
This autonomous Swedish-speaking archipelago is a peaceful retreat in the Baltic Sea.
Things to Do
- Bike the scenic routes between islands.
- Visit Kastelholm Castle and maritime museums.
- Enjoy slow life: sea kayaking, local cuisine, and quiet beaches.
- Take a ferry from Turku or Helsinki to explore these unique islands.
Go Beyond the Arctic Circle in Winter
Winter in Finland is truly otherworldly. Snow blankets the forests, reindeer roam freely, and the skies dance in green light.
Bucket List Winter Activities
- Ice hotel stay: Sleep on ice beds in Levi or Kemi.
- Snowmobile safaris: Zoom across frozen lakes.
- Winter photography: Capture blue-hour beauty and frost-covered landscapes.
- Visit the SnowCastle of Kemi: A massive snow and ice structure with a chapel, hotel, and restaurant.
Take Part in Finland’s Unique Traditions
The Finnish way of life includes quirky, heartfelt customs.
- Silence is golden: Respect the peaceful vibe, especially in nature.
- Coffee culture: Finns drink the most coffee per capita! Try a korvapuusti (cinnamon bun) with your brew.
- Education and libraries: Visit Oodi Library in Helsinki—one of the world’s best public libraries.
- Wife-carrying contest: A real sport in Finland!
Finland is more than just a travel destination—it’s a way of life. From the quiet magic of the Arctic to the dynamic design of Helsinki, from the warmth of the sauna to the thrill of winter sports, Finland offers a rich, serene, and soul-refreshing experience. Whether you’re visiting in summer for its endless light and green forests or in winter for the Northern Lights and snowy adventures, Finland will leave a deep, lasting impression on your heart.
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