10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

Finland is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the outdoors, take in some culture, and explore the great city of Helsinki. Popular activities include visiting the medieval city of Turku, the World Heritage Site of Suomenlinna, and the northern lights in Lapland. Other attractions include the Santa Claus Village, the Northern Lights Village, the Saimaa Canal, and the Sami Culture. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to do in Finland like skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Finland is also a great place to experience delicious food, meet friendly locals, and take in the beautiful scenery.

 

1. Helsinki

Finland

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. It is a vibrant, modern city with a rich cultural heritage. There are many attractions to explore in Helsinki, including the historic Old Town, the beautiful architecture, the lively nightlife, and the many parks and green spaces. A great way to start exploring Helsinki is to take a guided walking tour. There are several companies offering these tours, and they will take you to some of the most interesting places in the city, including Senate Square, the Sibelius Monument, and the Rock Church.

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, head to the nearby islands of Suomenlinna, Pihlajasaari, and Vallisaari. Here you can explore the castles, forts, and nature trails. You can also take a boat tour of the islands and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the sea. If you’re in the mood for some shopping, Helsinki has plenty to offer. Visit the traditional market square Kauppatori, where you can find a variety of Finnish souvenirs and crafts or head to the Kamppi Shopping Centre for the latest fashion and designer labels. 

For some culture, visit the National Museum of Finland or the Finnish National Gallery. To experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, head to Kallio or Punavuori for some of the best bars and clubs in town.
No matter what you’re looking for, Helsinki has something for everyone.

2. Lapland

Lapland is a great place to visit for both adults and children. There are plenty of activities to do in this region of Finland, such as dog sledding, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and reindeer sleigh rides. You can also visit Santa Claus Village, the Ice Hotel, and the Ranua Wildlife Park, or enjoy a Northern Lights tour. Lapland also has plenty of cultural attractions to explore, including the Sami culture, traditional villages, and the Sámi Museum. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful natural landscape, Lapland has something for everyone.

 

 

 

 

 

3. Turku

Turku is a city in southwestern Finland and is the oldest city in the country. With a population of over 200,000, it is the sixth-largest city in Finland.

There are many things to do in Turku, from historical sites to museums and galleries to shopping and entertainment. A few of the must-see attractions in Turku include the Turku Castle, the Turku Cathedral, and the Turku Art Museum. You can also take a boat tour to explore the city’s many islands. If you are looking for something a bit more active, there are several parks and trails to explore, as well as the Turku Zoo.
In addition to the attractions, Turku has a thriving restaurant and bar scene. There are a variety of international restaurants, as well as traditional Finnish eateries. You can also find nightlife spots, live music venues, and cinemas. Turku is a great destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday. With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored!

 

4. Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland in Finland and is a great place to visit. There are many activities to enjoy while in Rovaniemi.
1. Visit Santa Clause Village – Located right at the Arctic Circle, Santa Clause Village is a must-visit for anyone visiting Rovaniemi. Here, visitors can take pictures with Santa and explore the village’s many shops and attractions.
2. Explore the Arctic Circle Crossing – The Arctic Circle Crossing is a unique experience that takes visitors across the Arctic Circle. Those who make the crossing receive a certificate of participation.
3. Visit the Arktikum Museum – Arktikum is a museum and science center dedicated to the culture and history of the Arctic. Visitors can explore the many exhibits and learn about the region’s unique environment.
4. Go Dog Sledding – Dog sledding is a popular activity in the area, and visitors can take a ride in a traditional sled pulled by huskies.
5. Enjoy the Nightlife – Rovaniemi has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.
6. Take a Reindeer Sleigh Ride – Reindeer sleigh rides are a fun and traditional way to explore the area. Guests can take a ride in a sleigh pulled by reindeer and enjoy the winter scenery.

5. Tampere


Tampere, sometimes known as the Manchester of Finland, offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors. The city boasts one of the most vibrant cultural scenes in Finland and is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theatres. For those looking for outdoor activities, Tampere is one of the best places in the country for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor sports. The Tampere Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, while other attractions include the Tampere Water Tower, the Särkänniemi amusement park, and the Sarkanniemi Aquarium. The city also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Tampere Jazz Happening and the Tampere Film Festival.

 

 

 

6. Porvoo

Porvoo is a city in the southeastern region of Finland, about 50km east of Helsinki. The city is known for its beautiful old town, with cobbled streets, quaint wooden buildings, and unique boutiques and restaurants.
There is plenty to do in Porvoo, from visiting the city’s many museums and galleries to exploring its picturesque canals and waterways. The city is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Porvoo Food and Culture Festival and the Summertime Jazz Festival. For a taste of traditional Finnish culture, visitors can visit the historic Porvoo Cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century. Or, take a stroll through the idyllic old town, where you can find plenty of interesting shops, galleries, and cafés to explore.
Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in and around Porvoo as well. The region is home to several nature reserves, including the Nuuksio National Park, where you can admire the stunning views of Lake Päijänne and the surrounding forests. No matter what your interests are, Porvoo is sure to have something to offer. Whether you’re looking for culture, nature, or something in between, you’re sure to find something to love in this charming Finnish city.

 

 

 

7. Kuopio


Kuopio is a vibrant city located in the heart of Finland. It is well known for its stunning natural beauty and its many cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting Kuopio:
1. Take a boat ride on the stunning Lake Kallavesi. On the lake, you can witness some of the most beautiful landscapes in Finland.
2. Visit the Kuopio City Hall, which is the largest wooden building in Northern Europe.
3. Explore the Kuopio Art Museum, where you can see a variety of works from both Finnish and international artists.
4. Head to Puijo Tower and enjoy the view of the city from the top.
5. Take a stroll through the Kuopio Market Square and browse the many stalls.
6. Visit the Kuopio Cathedral, a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture.
7. Take a walk around the Kuopio University Botanical Gardens and admire the diverse range of plants and flowers.
8. Visit the Kuopio Science Center, where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and experiments.
9. Go on a nature walk in the nearby Pyhä-Luosto National Park and explore the beautiful forests, lakes, and rolling hills.
10. End your trip with a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in Kuopio.

 

8. Levi

Levi is a popular tourist destination in Finland, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. There are many things to do in Levi, including skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and snow tubing. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests, explore the local culture, or relax at one of the local spas. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from, as well as plenty of shopping opportunities. The nearby town of Kittilä is also worth a visit, as it is home to the Levi Ski and Snowboard Resort, the largest in Finland.

 

 

 

 

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9. Saariselka

Saariselka is an attractive destination for tourists who are looking for a combination of outdoor adventure and relaxation. The resort town is nestled in the wilderness of northern Finland and is known for its picturesque views of the nearby Urho Kekkonen National Park. Visitors can explore the park by skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking, or head out on a guided tour to spot the area’s diverse wildlife. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from. Popular activities include visiting the local shops, taking a reindeer safari, and soaking in the natural hot springs. In the winter, the local ski slopes provide plenty of fun and thrills, while the nearby ice rink is a treat for ice skating fans. No matter the season, Saariselka is an ideal destination for an unforgettable holiday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

10. Olavinlinna Castle

Olavinlinna Castle, also known as Olofsborg, is a 15th-century castle located in Savonlinna, Finland. Built in 1475, it is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in the country and a popular tourist attraction. The castle is situated on a small island in Lake Saimaa and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery. It is home to several museums and hosts events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and theatrical performances. Visitors to the castle can explore the grounds, visit the museum, and take part in guided tours.

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