Top Things to Do in Finland: A Nordic Wonderland of Nature and Design
Discover why Finland captivates travelers with its pristine landscapes, cutting-edge design, and tranquil charm. Finland’s breathtaking blend of wild landscapes and vibrant cities offers travelers a rich and varied experience.
Finland, the land of a thousand lakes, seamlessly weaves together its natural beauty and modern innovation. Whether you’re wandering through Helsinki’s architectural wonders or chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland’s unique charm lies in its balance between urban sophistication and serene wilderness. From bustling markets to remote forest trails, the country invites you to explore its soul through design, tradition, and unspoiled nature.
Helsinki: A Hub of Design and Coastal Beauty
Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a vibrant city where contemporary design meets historic charm. Start your exploration at the Helsinki Cathedral, a neoclassical masterpiece whose white domes and green accents dominate the Senate Square. Just a short walk away, the Oodi Central Library offers a modern architectural marvel, blending sleek wood and glass with open, airy spaces designed for communal use. Whether reading, relaxing, or enjoying the rooftop terrace, Oodi is a celebration of Finnish innovation and community spirit.
Stroll through Market Square, where local vendors sell fresh seafood, handmade crafts, and traditional Finnish delicacies. Try a steaming bowl of lohikeitto (salmon soup) and sample karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies) topped with egg butter. Take a ferry from the nearby dock to Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site sprawled across six interconnected islands. Explore its cobblestone paths, museums, and ramparts that once defended Helsinki from seafaring invaders. The fortress, now a peaceful retreat, perfectly encapsulates the city’s blend of history and natural beauty.
Lapland: Northern Lights and Arctic Adventures
Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, transforms into a magical winter wonderland when snow blankets the landscape. Visit Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, where you can meet the jolly man himself at Santa Claus Village. Cross the Arctic Circle, send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office, and marvel at the festive charm that persists year-round. In winter, the area offers dog sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Arctic lifestyle.
For a truly unforgettable experience, stay in a glass igloo at resorts like Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, where the Northern Lights dance across the sky on clear winter nights. During the summer, Lapland becomes a lush paradise where the Midnight Sun bathes the region in endless daylight. Hike the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, where ancient fells and birch forests teem with wildlife. Berry picking, canoeing, and exploring the vast wilderness define summer’s charm in Lapland, contrasting starkly with its snowy, ethereal winters.
Turku: Finland’s Oldest City and Cultural Hub
Turku, once Finland’s capital, blends medieval history with a youthful, artistic vibe. Begin at Turku Castle, a stone fortress dating back to the 13th century, where exhibitions recount the region’s storied past. Just across the Aura River, visit the Turku Cathedral, whose gothic towers dominate the skyline. Inside, ornate altars and centuries-old tombs reveal Finland’s ecclesiastical history.
The riverfront itself is a lively promenade, where historic ships have been converted into floating restaurants. Try the muikku (fried vendace) at Ravintola Smör, or enjoy a cold beer from the local Ruosniemen Panimo brewery. In the summer, riverboats transform into pop-up cafés and bars, making the most of Turku’s fleeting warm months. Whether strolling through the Botanical Garden or attending the annual Medieval Market, Turku’s cultural richness leaves a lasting impression.
Tampere: The Industrial City with a Creative Soul
Tampere, often called the Manchester of Finland, thrives on its industrial heritage and contemporary creativity. Visit the Vapriikki Museum Complex, where exhibits range from natural history to innovations in Finnish design. The Tampere Cathedral, with its striking frescoes and granite structure, stands as a symbol of Finnish romanticism.
A unique local tradition is the public sauna. The Rauhaniemi Public Sauna, located by Lake Näsijärvi, is a favorite spot to experience the quintessential Finnish ritual of sweating out stress before a brisk dip in the icy waters. For something more contemporary, visit Kauppahalli, a historic market hall where modern food stalls offer everything from reindeer burgers to craft coffee. Tampere’s inventive spirit thrives in its eclectic blend of past and present, making it a dynamic cultural hub.
Nuuksio National Park: Wilderness Near the City
Just outside Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park is a haven for nature lovers seeking an escape from urban life. The park’s winding trails lead through dense pine forests, past serene lakes, and across rocky outcrops. Follow the Haukankierros Trail for a moderate hike that loops around Hawk Lake, offering stunning views from the cliffs above.
Wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot Siberian flying squirrels, moose, and a variety of bird species. Rent a canoe to paddle across the clear waters or set up a tent at one of the designated camping spots for an overnight stay under the stars. The Haltia Nature Centre at the park’s entrance offers interactive exhibits that highlight Finland’s rich biodiversity and sustainable practices. Whether trekking, birdwatching, or simply picnicking, Nuuksio’s tranquility rejuvenates the soul.
Sauna Culture: The Finnish Way to Relax
No visit to Finland is complete without experiencing a traditional sauna. More than just a way to unwind, saunas are an integral part of Finnish life, symbolizing purification and social connection. In Helsinki, try Löyly, a modern seaside sauna where wood-fired heat meets Baltic breezes. Enjoy the alternating ritual of steaming and cold plunges, followed by a hearty meal at the onsite restaurant.
In Lapland, rustic lakeside saunas offer a more traditional experience. After heating up, roll in the snow or dip into a freezing lake to complete the rejuvenation process. Locals often follow this with a glass of sahti, a traditional Finnish beer brewed with juniper. Whether at a luxurious urban spa or a simple cabin in the woods, sauna sessions offer a window into Finland’s deep appreciation for wellness and simplicity.
Final Thoughts: Finland’s Harmonious Blend of Nature and Modernity
Whether you’re soaking in a traditional sauna, biking through coastal towns, or chasing the aurora borealis across snowy fields, Finland offers an experience rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and sublime natural beauty. It’s a place where the modern and the ancient live in perfect, peaceful harmony. From the cutting-edge design of Helsinki to the wild beauty of Lapland, every moment in Finland is infused with a quiet magic that lingers long after you’ve left.
