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Regions in Finland

The midnight sun, Northern Lights and superb saunas: there’s no shortage of natural beauty or quirky charm in Finland , it just might come at a premium price. Get the best of the country by using our map of Finland to start planning your trip.

Largely flat and wooded, the Finnish landscape really comes into its own in the North , where the remote wilderness of Lapland allows access to the Arctic Circle. Finland isn’t just husky sleighing and reindeer herding, however: don’t miss the country’s capital, Helsinki , where the architectural grandeur of the neoclassical buildings and wide streets provides a dramatic backdrop to excellent museums of art and national history.

Finally, visit the Lake Region , a huge bay dotted by densely forested islands, one of which boasts the ancient Olavinlinna Castle. If you’re an opera fan, head to the regional centre, Savonlinna , where the renowned opera festival takes place amidst the beaches and harbours of the town’s three islands.

If you are planning to travel, check out Finland itineraries , read more on the best places to go in Finland , learn about getting there and where to stay once you are there.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Finland, created by local experts

City hopping in Finland and Estonia

5 days  / from 1416 USD

City hopping in Finland and Estonia

Helsinki enchants with its blend of modernity and nature, entertainment and tranquility accessible everywhere and all the time. Turku, in turn, was the first capital of Finland, and has a lot to teach about the Finnish History. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is not behind in terms of heritage.

Aurora Feast in Finland, Norway and Sweden

7 days  / from 6102 USD

Aurora Feast in Finland, Norway and Sweden

This tour is perfect for people who want to explore the Arctic. Begin your journey from the southern part of Finland via Sweden up to the northern part of Norway. Most importantly, you will be hunting for the Northern Lights in the best locations! From Nov to March.

Wild Lapland Experience

5 days  / from 1634 USD

Wild Lapland Experience

Explore the surroundings of the Arctic Circle, visit a magical place - Santa Claus Village - try the traditional Lappish food, snow-shoeing, and much more. You will be located in Pello, close to the famous Eeron Polku trail. From Nov to April.

Midnight Sun in Lapland

5 days  / from 1088 USD

Midnight Sun in Lapland

In these five days, we will lead you as you learn more about the culture in Northern Europe, taste Lappish delicacies and explore the Arctic Circle. You will also have the opportunity to visit an Amethyst Mine and witness the midnight sun. From Jun to August.

Magical Finland: Helsinki, Arctic Beauty and Midnight Sun

11 days  / from 3923 USD

Magical Finland: Helsinki, Arctic Beauty and Midnight Sun

Unique Finnish experiences comprise this superb trip. Tour Helsinki and Porvoo, hike in forests and dig for amethysts, before savouring a midnight sun sauna boat cruise. Visit Santa in his Lapland home, cross the Arctic Circle and head out for an overnight bear safari to wrap up a memorable trip.

Fascinating Northern Lights in Lapland

7 days  / from 2431 USD

Fascinating Northern Lights in Lapland

Witness the mesmerizing dance of the Aurora Borealis on six unforgettable evenings. Fulfill your dream of experiencing this natural wonder, an essential highlight of your Lapland adventure. Available from December to April, the optimal months for both Northern Lights and exhilarating activities.

Dreamy Winter Holidays

14 days  / from 5532 USD

Dreamy Winter Holidays

A Finnish dream holiday that encapsulates the essence of a perfect winter getaway. Delve into Lapland's enchanting wonderland through thrilling Arctic escapades: seek Northern Lights, engage with Sami culture, relish Finnish Sauna, and mush with husky dogs. Your ultimate Arctic adventure!

Ultimate Baltics

16 days  / from 4033 USD

Ultimate Baltics

Uncover both renowned attractions and hidden gems across the Baltic States and Southern Finland. Explore UNESCO sites, serene villages, and sandy dunes. From the capital cities of Vilnius, Riga, Tallinn and Helsinki to the beaches in Klaipeda in Pärnu.

Winter Adventure in Rovaniemi

5 days  / from 1308 USD

Winter Adventure in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi, the recognized abode of Santa Claus, serves as the ultimate hub for delving into Arctic landscapes and immersing in Lappish (Sami) heritage. Engage in a diverse array of pursuits, from thrilling snowshoe escapades to chasing the enchanting Northern Lights, or embracing the roles of a husk

Baltic Highlights

10 days  / from 1690 USD

Baltic Highlights

Witness unspoiled landscapes and vibrant capitals. From Vilnius to Riga and Tallinn, move all the way up to Helsinki. Along the way, visit national parks like Laheema and castles like the Trakai castle. Private transfers and unique accommodation choices are included.

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Travel advice for Finland

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updated 17.10.2020

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Finland

Written by Jim O'Donnell and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 26, 2022

From the vibrant art-filled cities of Helsinki and Turku to the depths of the boreal forests and the thinly inhabited outer archipelago, Finland offers a wealth of attractions and beautiful places to visit.

It's also a relatively unknown corner of Europe, likely because it is so far from the mainstream tourist routes, but the country's many cultural and historical sites add to the unspoiled natural surroundings to make it an ideal destination.

Finland's lakes, fells, rivers, and vast wild areas, along with the certainty of snow in the winter make it a Nordic playground for both winter and summer activities.

Helsinki is the main point of entry for most visitors to Finland. The busy Baltic port is where you'll find the most important museums, as well as architecture by some of the greatest Finnish architects, and numerous things to do.

Within easy reach of Helsinki are the charming smaller cities of Turku and Porvoo. But it would be a shame to confine a trip only to the Baltic coast, when so much beautiful open countryside beckons. To the west lie the Finnish lakes, and in the north is the vast area beyond the Arctic Circle, home of the midnight sun, northern lights, and some of Europe's best winter sports.

Winter or summer, Finland offers plenty of things to do. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Finland.

1. Suomenlinna Fortress

2. kauppatori (market square) and esplanadi, 3. rovaniemi and the arctic, 4. helsinki churches, 5. go skiing or ride a dogsled, 6. shop and browse in helsinki's design district, 7. watch the northern lights, 8. åland archipelago, 11. lake saimaa and savonlinna, 13. tampere, 14. lemmenjoki national park, 16. hameenlinna, 17. ranua wildlife park.

Suomenlinna Fortress

One of the world's largest sea fortresses , the 18th-century fort on Suomenlinna is a 15-minute ferry ride from Helsinki's Market Square (a mini-cruise that has lovely views of the city as a bonus attraction).

The main point of interest is the fortress-castle whose construction was begun in 1748 during an era of Swedish rule, originally named Sveaborg. In 1808, troops surrendered the fortress to invading Russians, and its condition deteriorated over the following century.

Finally, after independence was regained in 1917, the Finns took control of the fortifications and began the slow process of restoring the landmark. It was an active submarine base during World War II , and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction.

Begin with the audio-visual experience in the visitor center (it's in English) for a lively history, then explore its ramparts, tunnels, and museums and walk the trails around the beautiful island. Or sign up here for a guided walk to learn more about the fort and its various attractions. Among these are the 250-ton Vesikko submarine, used by the Finnish Navy from 1936 until the end of World War II.

The Ehrensvärd Museum illustrates the earliest Swedish period, and the Doll and Toy Museum displays dolls, dollhouses, and toys in an old Russian villa. Various buildings house studios and shops of glassblowers, potters, and other craftsmen, and in the summer, you can stay for evening dance and musical performances of the Suomenlinna Summer Theatre .

Official site: https://www.suomenlinna.fi/en

Kauppatori, Helsinki

Helsinki's harbor is an integral part of the city, whose important landmarks overlook it. It's also a popular gathering point, with an open-air market of local farmers, craftsmen, food producers, and fishermen , who sell directly from their boats.

You may catch the fragrance of salmon cooking over cedar planks beside the boats, and depending on the season see a rainbow of glistening ripe berries or baskets of foraged woodland mushrooms. The historic 1889 market hall shelters more food vendors, but the outdoor market is a year-round tradition, protected by tarps and tents in the winter.

Stretching from one side of the Market Square, the open swath of the Esplanadi is where the entire city seems to congregate on summer evenings. The tree-lined promenade is bordered by elegant buildings and a pavilion houses the Kappeli Restaurant, whose terrace is especially popular on summer evenings when there are concerts in the bandstand.

A fountain, another work by Eliel Saarinen, supports a statue of Havis Amanda, Helsinki's symbol. Helsinki's most unusual museum, the Street Museum , climbs from market Square to Senate Square, a one-block progression from the early 1800s to the 1930s, with paving surfaces, street lights, mail boxes, and phone booths changing with each era.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Helsinki & Easy Day Trips

Reindeer and sleighs in Rovaniemi

The Arctic Circle runs across northern Finland, right through the town of Rovaniemi, giving it claim to being the Gateway to the Arctic . In the summer, this means the famous Midnight Sun .

While the sun only stays above the horizon for a full 24 hours in Rovaniemi on the summer solstice in late June, from late May to early August it never drops far enough for it to get dark. Locals are out enjoying their great outdoors throughout these "White Nights" and welcome tourists to join them.

Rovaniemi is in the center of a vast natural area of rushing rivers for canoeing, swimming, or fishing, with trails alongside them for hiking and cycling. The city is best known (ask any Finnish child) as the home of Santa Claus, right astride the Arctic Circle at Santa Claus Village . You can meet reindeer here or visit a Sami reindeer farm.

To learn more about the Lapland culture and about the natural history, meteorology and geology of the Arctic, visit the stunning Arktikum Science Museum .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Rovaniemi

Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral

Three of the top places to visit in Helsinki are churches, two of them cathedrals and the third a landmark of modern architecture. Uspensky Orthodox Cathedral rises dramatically above the east side of the harbor, its 13 green-topped spires ending in gold cupolas. This is western Europe's largest Orthodox church, its interior glowing with gold, icons, crosses, altars, and intricately decorated arches. The cathedral serves Helsinki's large Russian population, and visitors are welcome.

On the hill directly behind the harbor and an equally visible landmark to those approaching Helsinki by sea, the huge Neoclassical Lutheran Cathedral is so close and so large that it appears to be standing on the roofs of the harbor-front buildings. The tall green dome and broad steps of the early 19th-century cathedral form the majestic focal point of Senate Square.

The buildings facing the square complete a harmonious enclosure, one of Europe's most beautiful public squares. It is used frequently for celebrations and as the starting point of parades. In December, the entire square is filled with booths selling beautiful local crafts and holiday foods.

While these two cathedrals are firmly in the traditions of their denomination, Temppeliaukio Church is an architectural experiment, carved into solid rock on a relatively small space in the center of the city. Architects Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen designed the church, covering it with a rounded, woven copper roof supported by concrete spokes. The acoustics created by the combination of copper and stone are remarkable, making this a popular venue for musical concerts of all styles.

Dogsledding in Rovaniemi

In the winter, the Arctic region is a paradise for skiers and others who love snow and ice sports. You can ride across frozen lakes and visit Sami villages on a dogsled safari , learn to drive your own reindeer sled, snowshoe, or cross-country ski for miles, and watch the spectacular northern lights.

Downhill skiers should head about 170 kilometers north of Rovaniemi to Levi , a center for all winter recreation, with miles of scenic Nordic ski trails, lighted for night skiing. So are the pistes and slopes of Finland's largest downhill ski area. Many hotels at Levi have rooms with glass ceilings, so you can watch the northern lights from inside.

Design Museum Helsinki

The epicenter of modern Scandinavian design, Helsinki has an entire district devoted to studios, galleries, and even antique shops dedicated to Finish designers and their work. Whether you're shopping or just looking, a few hours in these neighborhoods is a chance to experience this vibrant facet of Finnish arts and culture.

Design District Helsinki brings together creative people in the central neighborhoods of Punavuori, Kaartinkaupunki, Kamppi, and Ullanlinna, where you'll find boutiques, galleries, and studios devoted to contemporary designs in fashion, jewelry, furnishings, tableware and everyday items.

Along with the shops, you can arrange visits to some designer studios, such as Raaka Rå (organic pottery) and Paja (artisan jewelry) to see craftspeople at work; contact them through the Design District website. You'll also find shops specializing in design-driven antiques and vintage Finnish designs, such as Art.fi and Artek 2nd Cycle.

For an overview (and a great shop) visit the Design Forum Finland on Erottajankatu, which showcases the best of Finnish design in everything from dishes to paperclips. To see how Finnish design and craftsmanship have developed, and see some outstanding examples from the past, visit the Design Museum in the Kaartinkaupunki neighborhood.

Official site: https://designdistrict.fi/en/

Northern lights

For most people, seeing these blazing curtains of light drape across the sky is a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights . Although, at times, the lights can be seen even in the southern most regions of the nation, the best place to see them is in the region close to or north of the Arctic Circle.

Here, between September and March, visitors are almost guaranteed a show if the sky is clear. A wide range of hotels in the north cater specifically to people wanting to see the lights. Also, the Finnish Meteorological Institute allows you to sign up for free Northern Lights email alerts.

Åland Island

The Åland Islands (or Åland) are an autonomous archipelago between Sweden and Finland. A predominantly Swedish-speaking province of Finland, Åland is comprised of a few large islands and nearly 10,000 smaller ones. Åland has a unique history. It was ceded to Russia by Sweden in 1809. In 1854, a combined British/French fleet took the islands, destroying the fortress. After that, the entire archipelago was demilitarized and remains so to this day.

About 27,500 people live in Åland, with about 11,000 in the main town of Mariehamn . The main industry of the islands has always been shipping and trade, so the Maritime Museum, the Museum Ship Pommern, and the Maritime Quarter in Mariehamn are worth seeing to understand the islands' fascinating maritime history.

Also worth a visit is the Jan Karlsgården open-air museum in Kastelholm, where you can see what a typical island farm looked like around 1890. However, the big draw to Åland these days is its unspoiled nature and beautiful landscapes.

On midsummer's eve, Åland holds a massive and ancient celebration marking the longest day of the year. The lovely landscapes and seascapes make it a favorite with artists, and their studios and galleries are popular with tourists, who arrive by boat from Turku and Stockholm.

Turku Castle

The southwestern Finnish town of Turku, the country's oldest town and until 1812 its capital, lies on the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Aurajoki River. Turku lies in the area where the successors to the Swedish Vikings landed in the 12th century and set out to conquer what is now Finland.

With eight centuries of history, it is today the most traditional medieval town in Finland, but in addition to its outstanding medieval buildings, you'll find examples of Art Nouveau and modern architecture, such as the Sibelius Museum , by Woldemar Baeckman.

The river is a focal point for the city, lined with historic boats, some of which have been converted into restaurants. In the summer, locals gather along its banks in the evening and in the winter, it becomes a giant skating rink.

On the northeast side of the river is the commercial center with the Kaupatori (market square) shopping center and lovely Orthodox Church . On the opposite bank the medieval cathedral , consecrated in 1290, rises above the Old Great Square . It is a massive brick church in Late Romanesque style with Gothic and Renaissance additions and a massive 97-meter-high tower, which dominates the city.

During the midsummer Medieval Festival , the old square's ensemble of historic buildings regains its medieval air with craft stalls and food vendors.

Tall ships docked on the River Aura in Turku

Just down from the cathedral along the river, two old sailing ships are moored - the "Suomen Joutsen," now a training school for seamen, and the "Sigyn," the last remaining wooden barque used for sea trade. Both are open to the public in summer.

Nearer the harbor is Turku Castle, built around 1300 on what was then an island at the mouth of the river. It was enlarged in the 16th to 17th century and now houses the Turku Historical Museum .

For a look at what Turku looked like in the early 1800s, stroll through the streets of the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum , an entire neighborhood of 40 homes, the only ones saved in the fire that destroyed Turku in 1827. Preserved as a museum village, its homes and workshops now house artisans who demonstrate period crafts.

Porvoo

The country's second oldest town, Porvoo, is 48 kilometers east of Helsinki. It rises from a picturesque riverfront lined with little red wooden buildings, through a charming tangle of old streets and ochre-colored wooden houses to its hilltop medieval cathedral . Highlights here are the ornate 1764 pulpit and wall paintings from the 15th century.

Between the river and the hilltop cathedral is the Market Square with two museums worth visiting. One has exhibits on local history and the other, the Edelfelt-Vallgren Museum , is of particular interest to those fascinated by the Art Nouveau movement. It features the furniture, ceramics, and other works of several artists who formed an art colony here at the turn of the 20th century.

Porvoo is still known for its fine crafts, so allow time for browsing the shops and studios. In the summer, you can visit Porvoo from Helsinki by boat.

Castle Olavinlinna, Savonlinna

The entire eastern portion of Finland is more sea than land. With literally tens of thousands of lakes, rivers, marshes, and ponds, eastern Finland is a fabulous aquatic playground. The dominant lake of the region is massive Lake Saimaa , the "lake of a thousand islands." Lake Saimaa itself has an area of some 1,300 square kilometers - excluding its numerous islands.

The whole lake system is drained by the river Vuoksi, which leaves Lake Saimaa to the north of the town of Imatra and flows into Lake Ladoga in Russia. The hilly shores of the lake and most of the islands are almost entirely covered with coniferous forest, with some birch forest farther north.

Savonlinna is the main city of Finland's lake region. A popular spa and holiday resort, Savonlinna grew up around Olavinlinna Castle, begun in 1475 and Europe's northernmost medieval stone fortress still standing.

The castle, which has been beautifully restored, contains a number of handsome rooms, among them the King's or Knights' Hall , the Congress Hall , and the Great Hall . Three massive round towers have survived, and in one of them, the Church Tower , is a small chapel. In the Great Bastion is a summer café.

East of Savonlinna lies Kerimäki and the largest wooden church in the world. A must do when in the lake region are the boat cruises. From Savonlinna, there are boat trips to the other towns on Lake Saimaa, to Punkaharju , with the Retretti Art Center , the largest in the Nordic countries, to the monasteries of Uusi Valamo and Lintula . Another day trip option is a cruise down the Saimaa Canal to Vyborg in Russia on the Baltic Sea.

Vaasa

Established in the 1300s, Vaasa was an important town in the time that Sweden ruled Finland. The original town burned down in 1852 and was relocated six kilometers northwest near a better harbor. The ruins of the old city are now a giant park (Vanha Vaasa, Gamla Vasa).

The town is about 34 percent Swedish speaking and retains many ties to Sweden. Surrounded by a wide range of cafés, restaurants, and shops, the large market place is the center of city life. This peaceful town offers plenty of attractions. Visitors can walk along the waterfront, which begins in front of the town and extends for miles along the coast.

Other attractions include the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art, down at the harbor, the Ostrobothnian Museum, the Terranova Kvarken Nature Center , the Tikanoja Art Museum, and the Vaasa Maritime Museum .

Just to the east of the city center, on an island, is Tropiclandia and tropical spa , a waterpark inside a heated dome packed with pools, slides, and saunas. South of Vaasa is the famed Söderfjärden crater caused by a meteor millions of years ago. To the north lies the Kvarken National Park , a wild archipelago hosting many great hikes and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Vaasa also hosts a number of notable cultural events, including the Night of the Arts ; the Korsholm Music Festival , one of the most noted of chamber music festivals; and the Vaasa Choir Festival . Vaasa claims to be the sunniest town in all of Finland, so soak up some rays on one of the many beaches.

Orthodox Church in Tampere

Founded in 1779 as an industrial settlement, Tampere is Finland's third largest town, but doesn't feel like a large urban center. It lies between two lakes: Näsijärvi, to the north, and Pyhäjärvi, to the south, which are linked by the Tammerkoski , a stretch of rapids nearly a kilometer long.

Along with its industry, Tampere is known for its active cultural life with an open-air theater and frequent festivals. These include the November Tampere Jazz Happening , a tradition now for more than 35 years, when world-renowned names in jazz perform throughout the city in small concert venues and clubs.

In the Vapriikki Museum, you'll find the Natural History Museum and other exhibitions. Three churches are of note: Tampere Cathedral is known for its unusual paintings and frescoes depicting skeletons in black hooded capes, created in the early 1900s by Finnish symbolist painter Hugo Simberg.

The Kaleva Church, a soaring concrete building constructed in the 1960s has a floor plan in the shape of a fish, an ancient Christian symbol. The green-domed brick Orthodox Church of Saint Alexander Nevsky and Saint Nicholas has a sumptuously decorated interior.

Lemmenjoki National Park

Anyone seeking an Arctic wilderness experience will love Lemmenjoki National Park. The tract of boreal forest is the largest park in Finland and one of the most extensive chunks of wildlands in all of Europe, covering more than 2,589 square kilometers. For the trekker, there are hundreds of kilometers of marked trails, as well as free and open wilderness huts and more sophisticated rental huts with sauna and campfire places.

The namesake of the park, the Lemmenjoki River, is a sight to behold as it flows down from the fells into a stunning valley of towering pines. Visitors can either rent a boat or take a tour. This is the place to find brown bear, wolves, and wild golden eagles, as well as moose and reindeer.

Oulu

Sweet little Oulu lies near the north end of the Gulf of Bothnia, at the mouth of the Oulujoki river. It began as a village clustered around the late 16th-century castle built by King John III of Sweden on the island of Linnansaari at the mouth of the Oulujoki.

At the north end of the busy Kirkkokatu stands the c athedral , originally built in 1770-72. Beyond, at the north end of Kirkkokatu, a small bridge leads into the beautiful island of Ainola , where you'll find a park and the Provincial Museum . Farther north is the Botanic Garden, and on the island of Hupisaari, a summer theater.

Another popular tourist attraction is the Tietomaa Science Center to the east of the Oulu Botanic Garden. In the summer, spend some time at the Market Square over coffee and classic Finnish pastries. A few kilometers up the Oulujoki is the island of Turkansaari , once the home of Russian traders in the city and now an open-air museum.

Hameenlinna

Like many Finnish towns, Hämeenlinna began near a castle, in this case the 13th-century Tavastehus Castle . Its distinctive red-brick fortifications top the list of places to see in Hameenlinna. The other place you shouldn't miss seeing is Aulanko Nature Reserve . Part garden park, part forest reserve, it is the first National Urban Park in Finland.

The English-style park was constructed between 1883 and 1938, and in addition to hiking its well-kept trails among exotic and native trees, you can climb the 30-meter-tall granite tower on Aulangonvuori Hill for views across a typical Finnish forest and lake landscape. More than 50 different species of trees and shrubs are identified along the nature trail round Lake Joutsenlampi. Two historic pavilions and the ruins of a late 19th-century castle are also in the park.

Hämeenlinna was the birthplace of the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) and north of the market Square is the Sibelius Museum; a little bit farther on is the Sibelius Park and the nearby Hämeenlinna Historical Museum .

Lynx in the Ranua Wildlife Park

This park is part zoo and part wildlife preserve, home to more than 50 species of animals who call the arctic their home. Their most famous residents are Venus and Manse, the only polar bears residing in Finland . The park is naturally home to many reindeer, as well as the smaller wild forest reindeer and several varieties of deer.

Other park residents include large mammals like moose and brown bear, canines like the Arctic fox, grey wolf, and the dhole, and smaller animals like mink, otter, and stoat. There is also quite a variety of owls and geese, as well as several eagles and other birds. Visitors can stroll the grounds for a self-guided tour or book an "arctic safari" to learn more about the animals and their habitat.

Address: Rovaniementie 29, 97700 Ranua, Finland

Official site: https://english.ranuazoo.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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Exploring Finland's Neighbor: After seeing so many hints of Swedish culture in Finland, which was a part of Sweden for much of its history, you may be intrigued by this neighbor just across the Gulf of Bothnia. A short flight or overnight ferry trip will bring you to Stockholm and its archipelago. PlanetWare's article on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden can help you plan travels throughout the country.

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More of Scandinavia : Norway is connected to Sweden by land, and thanks to the new Øresund Bridge, you can also reach Denmark by bus, train, or car. To see the best of these countries and their lively capitals of Copenhagen and Oslo, take a look at our articles on the Top Tourist Attractions in Norway and Top Tourist Attractions in Denmark .

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Jun 1, 2022 • 10 min read

Aerial view of fishing boat with young woman and man in blue summer lake in Finland; Shutterstock ID 1950372253; your: Claire Naylor; gl: 65050; netsuite: Online ed; full: Finland best places

From energetic cities to chilled lakeside retreats, here are the best places to visit in Finland © nblx / Shutterstock

Finland moves to its own Nordic beat. This land of geographical and climatic extremes is a land of possibility. A land on the final frontiers of the imagination and a source endless fascination: whether you are flying across the frozen tundra behind a team of yapping huskies in Lapland, with the northern lights swooping overhead, paddling from island to forested island in the Lakeland, with rare Saimaa ringed seals bobbing alongside your kayak, or leaping headfirst into Helsinki’s offbeat design scene.   

There’s so much nature, so much culture, so much otherness here that you could keep returning forever more and still be surprised. Here’s our rundown of the 10 best places to visit in Finland.

People lounge in the sun on some decking by the water in Helsinki

Helsinki is effortlessly cool

Dipping its toes into the brilliant blue Baltic, Helsinki has a generous pinch of everything that makes Finland so special: cutting-edge design, elegant art nouveau villas, galleries brimming with contemporary art, market halls singing of seasonal bounty, and restaurants riffing modern on foraged flavors. There are few capital cities that swing so effortlessly between the urban and the outdoors, with glorious forests, islands and beaches just a walk, pedal, paddle or ferry ride away. And if locals seem remarkably relaxed, you can thank saunas like Löyly Sauna , where you can steam before leaping into the sea (through an ice hole in winter).

You’re bound to find your own favorites, but unmissables include Unesco World Heritage Suomenlinna , a magnificent mid-18th century island fortress, the boutique and workshop-filled Design District and the picnic-perfect Esplanadi park. Put Kiasma for contemporary exhibitions and the palatial, neo-Renaissance Ateneum for Finnish art (including compelling frescoes of the national epic, Kalevala) at the top of your museum wish list. Home to the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, the glass-and-copper Musiikkitalo should be your first choice for high-caliber classical concerts and gigs.

As sunset bruises the sky above the Baltic, book a table at intimate, candlelit, Michelin-starred Demo , where Finnish cuisine is elevated to a new gourmet level in dishes like king crab with nettle pesto, and blackcurrant and liquorice-leaf marinated Åland lamb.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland

Tossing you in at the Arctic deep end, Rovaniemi , is Lapland in overdrive. Granted, you won’t have it to yourself – come Christmas time the city heaves with Santa groupies – but choose the shoulder season to visit and factor in time in the quieter surrounds and you’ll have a ball.

First up on your wish list is likely to be a visit to Santa and his gingerbread-baking elves in the blingy Santa Claus Village , atop the Arctic Circle, and Santapark . But this is really just the tip of the iceberg. Outside there’s scenery straight out of a snowglobe and a million and one ways to explore it: by reindeer-drawn sleigh, snowmobile, dogsled or on snowshoes. You can float in an icy lake spellbound by the northern lights arcing and swaying above, go ice fishing, or stay in a snow hotel or glass igloo. You name the Nordic fun – it’s here.

There’s a flurry of culture too in the form of Arktikum museum, zooming in on Lapland, Sámi culture and the history of Rovaniemi, and providing a fascinating primer on Arctic wildlife.

Tampere is a scenic city with creative energy

Scenically clasped between two lakes, Tampere fizzes with life and creative energy. The Tammerkoski rapids flow through the heart of the city, past the striking red brick facades of revamped fabric mills and industrial buildings now harboring museums, shops, bars and cafes. And with hiking trails, summer cottages, lake cruises and Finland’s oldest public sauna, Rajaportin , right on its doorstep, it’s never a toss up between culture and nature.

Sight-wise, you’ll want to tick off Amurin Työläismuseokortteli , where wooden houses take an insightful peek into workers’ lives from 1882 to 1973, and glass-and-steel Vapriikki , an eclectic exhibition space in the renovated Tampella textile mill. Tampere’s cathedral, Tuomiokirkko , is a whimsical vision of National Romantic art nouveau architecture. And kids (and lovers of cult trolls) go crazy for the Moomimuseo .

Tampere has one of Finland’s hottest food and nightlife scenes, too. Hit the kauppahalli (covered market) for a feast of fish, cheese, meat and pastries. Here you can try the city’s speciality, mustamakkara , blood sausage with lingonberry jam. In summer, there’s always a festival on, but year-round you’ll find live music at artsy Telakka .

A series of red gondolas travel along a wire leading up a ski slope covered in snow in Yllas, Finland

Ylläs is an uncrowded Lapland resort

Folk from more mountainous lands may scoff at the idea of skiing in Ylläs , whose eponymous fell reaches a modest 718m (2355ft), but frankly they are missing a trick. This cute little resort in Lapland, 150km (93 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, has the kind of uncrowded slopes and fresh, downy powder other countries can only dream of. Throw in rime-frosted forests, views out across frozen tundra and the northern lights dancing in night skies, and it is the full on Narnia package.

The skiing scene here is delightfully low key, with pristine snow and 63km (39 miles) of downhill slopes to pound, plus plenty of off piste and cross-country tracks to glide along. And then there’s the clincher: the world’s only sauna gondola , where you can strip off and sweat as you float above the winter wonderland.

Åland Islands is a top summer destination

Dropped into the piercing blue Baltic Sea off the country’s southwest coast, the Åland Archipelago is the summertime Finnish fantasy. Bridges and ferries skip across to one sleepy, forested island to the next (there are 6500 islands and islets in total, but some are little more than nameless specks of red granite). The islands move to their own gentle rhythm, with days spent pedaling or hiking to castle ruins, windmills and beaches, or kayaking to remote islets, where you might spot an elk family swimming from island to island, see a sea-eagle soar overhead, or paddle alongside seals.

By night, it’s back to the summer cottage (many with their own boats and saunas) or campsite for an evening around a crackling campfire under starry skies. The remoter you go to the outer isles, the more magical it gets.

Piece together your own island-hopping itinerary. RO-NO Rent in Mariehamn can sort you out with bikes, canoes and small boats that don’t require a license, or rent a kayak or paddleboard at Paddelboden .

A woman sits on a cliff at the edge of a lake looking out towards forested islets that dot the landscape

Kuopio is a cultured Lakeland city

If you’re seeking a bit of urban buzz before dipping an oar into the waters of Finnish Lakeland, Kuopio , dreamily hugging the shores of Lake Kallavesi delivers. The views out across sapphire waters, forested islands and skerries are an uplifting prelude to this cultured little city. Get your bearings over morning coffee in the revolving restaurant at the top of Puijon Torni . From there, you can dive into Finnish art at bank-turned-gallery Kuopion Taidemuseo and local history in Kuopion Museo , lodged in a castle-like art nouveau mansion.

One look at the sun burnishing the lakes and you’ll be itching to head outdoors to hike in spruce forests, hang out in beer gardens (and, of course, sample the famous local cloudberry liqueur), or cruise and kayak the waters. A steam and lake swim at the city’s huge, fabulously rustic smoke sauna, Jätkänkämppä , is perfect for unwinding at the end of a mellow summer day.

Savonlinna is a forested gateway to national parks

All is forest and water, green and blue in pretty Savolinna, embedded in Finnish Lakeland near the Russian border. Necklaced by islands and topped off by a turreted 15th-century stunner of a castle, Olavinlinna , the town wins hearts on looks alone. But this is also one of Finland’s cultural heavyweights as the host of the country’s most revered festival, July’s Savonlinna Opera Festival , held in the castle’s covered courtyard. Book well in advance to snag tickets to see the town at its aria-singing, life-loving best.

The beauty of basing yourself here is that you are but a splash away from some of Finland’s most serene and enchanting lake escapes: Linnansaari and Kolovesi national parks. The only way to get a true sense of their loveliness is to hire a kayak or canoe and go paddle camping . As you float past cliffs, caves and pine forests, keep a sharp eye out for otters, ospreys and one of the world’s rarest seals: the mottled, big-eyed Saimaa ringed seal. If you want to coo over their fur ball pups, come in spring.

Inari is home to indigenous Sámi culture 

Whether you glimpse its forest rimmed under the glow of the midnight sun or blanketed in snow and illuminated by the northern lights, Inari makes you catch your breath. This tiny speck of a village peers out across Lapland’s largest lake, island-speckled Inarijärvi, 300km (187 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. And it’s here that the pulse of the indigenous Sámi beats strongest.

The phenomenal Siida museum immerses you in Sámi culture, lending insight into their reindeer-herding traditions and Lapland’s unique ecology. Equally riveting is the architecturally striking Sajos , Sámi parliament, with a floor plan designed on a reindeer hide. But you’ll want to go deeper: perhaps taking a snowmobile out to Petri Mattus ’ reindeer farm in winter, or seeing the calving and earmarking in May. There’s a lot happening events-wise here, too: from July’s traditional Inari Weeks festivities to the grand finale of reindeer-racing season at the King’s Cup in late March.

Regardless of season, round out the day with foraged flavors and views of the Jäniskoski rapids at Aanaar , where you can dig into the likes of Arctic king crab with nettle butter, smoked reindeer heart with pine-needle vinaigrette, and cloudberry sorbet.

Inari is also a terrific springboard for forays into the remote fells, forests and gold-panning rivers of Lemmenjoki National Park and canyon-riven Kevo Strict Nature Reserve .

Turku has an exciting food and culture scene

Looking longingly out across the piercing blue Baltic, south coast Turku (in Swedish: Åbo) is an absolute knockout. This was the capital until 1812, when Tsar Alexander I of Russia decided to up sticks to Helsinki. A rich historic and cultural legacy is imprinted on the city to this day in the form of experimental art, upbeat music festivals and one of the country’s most exciting food scenes.

You’ll want to factor in time for a spin of Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova , a museum that whisks you underground to Old Turku’s medieval streets, then pings you back into the present with contemporary art upstairs. Finland’s largest fortress, Turun Linna , rewinds to the 13th century with its dungeons and lavish banqueting halls. And Turun Tuomiokirkko , the "mother church" of Finland’s Lutheran faith, is a Gothic vision in red brick. Visit during the silent hour (9-10am) as the morning sun slants through the windows to see it at its most atmospheric.

Summer turns the heat up a notch with music festivals like Turku Jazz and Ruisrock , boat bars on the south bank of the Aura River and parties fuelled by local craft beers. And when you tire of the city, you can hop on a ferry or kayak across to an island of your choice.

Urho Kekkonen National Park has lots of Finnish wildlife

It’s wild out there… Snuggling up close to the Russian border in the north of Lapland, the Urho Kekkonen National Park has an extraordinary portfolio of all the landscapes you come to the Arctic to see: old-growth pine, spruce and birch forests, high fells (including Korvatunturi, sacred among Finns as the original home of Santa), aapa mires and dazzlingly clear rivers and creeks. The park reels off the "greatest hits" of Finnish wildlife. With luck, patience and a decent pair of binoculars, you might see elk, reindeer, snow grouse, Arctic foxes and golden eagles. Brown bears, wolverines, wolves and lynx are far more elusive, but just knowing they are here adds an extra level of thrill.

Hiking here takes you through some soul-stirring landscapes, and there’s always a wilderness hut with a campfire and sauna where you can rest up after a long day’s trek. The Sámi town of Saariselkä is one of the most accessible gateways to the park.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Finland

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While not technically a part of Scandinavia, Finland boasts some of the same traits as its neighboring countries. Incredible scenery, unspoiled nature and a relatively liberal, modern political system are all positive attributes of Finland. In the winter the Northern Lights can be seen in the northernmost part of the country while in warmer months many Finns love to head to their summer cottages to enjoy some swimming, fishing, barbecuing but most of all the sauna.

When visiting Finland, it is natural to head to Helsinki , but your itinerary should also include other destinations beyond the capital. From small towns to natural wonders, this list highlights the best places to visit in Finland.

10. Levi [SEE MAP]

Levi

With so much unspoiled landscape, Finland is a nature lover’s dream destination. For outdoor enthusiasts, winter resort of Levi is undoubtedly a top pick for fun. Located in Finnish Lapland, Levi boasts miles of trails for skiing and snowboarding. There are also opportunities for more unusual activities such as reindeer safaris, ice fishing expeditions and relaxing in large outdoor saunas. The nightlife in Levi is a major draw for Finnish residents, so don’t leave until you have explored the bars, lounges and clubs in Central Levi.

9. Tampere [SEE MAP]

Tampere

Although it is the third-largest city in Finland, Tampere is still not a huge urban area, and it feels more like a collection of neighborhoods than a major metropolis. To get an understanding of Tampere’s history and heritage, check out the Vapriikki, a museum complex housing the Natural History Museum and the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame, among others. Outdoor recreation like skiing and hockey are incredibly popular in Tampere, but the less athletically inclined can settle for a stroll through outdoor hubs like Duck Park or the Hatanpää Arboretum. The popular Särkänniemi Adventure Park on the edge of downtown features an aquarium, a planetarium, a children’s zoo, an art museum and an observation tower with great views of the forests and lakes.

8. Aland Archipelago [SEE MAP]

Aland Archipelago

In the heart of the Baltic Sea is a collection of islands known as the Aland Archipelago. While they technically do belong to Finland, the islands run relatively autonomously. Unusually, this is one part of Finland where you are more likely to hear residents speaking Swedish than Finnish! Ferries shuttle visitors between the Aland Islands, offering you the chance to see attractions like the ship turned museum called the Pommern, the Aland Maritime Museum, the 14th century castle called Kastelholm and the miles of stunning hiking trails. Don’t miss the culinary specialty of the archipelago, a dessert pancake topped with stewed plums and whipped cream.

7. Kemi [SEE MAP]

Kemi

Industrially, Kemi is a city in Finnish Lapland that is known best for its pulp mills. Travelers, however, know Kemi best as the location of the iconic snow castle. The castle is built yearly, and it can be three stories tall and serve as the venue for weddings and live musical performances. Guests can even stay overnight in the snow hotel, should they choose! Kemi also has a bustling nightlife scene, and the destination is where you can board the arctic icebreaker tour that winds through the arctic waters in search of breathtaking icebergs and incredible views.

6. Finnish Lakeland [SEE MAP]

Finnish Lakeland

As the name suggests, Finnish Lakeland is as area of Finland where there is an abundance of lakes. There are about 55,000 lakes here that are at least 200 meters (660 feet) wide! The region is spread across central and eastern Finland, and it is bound by the stunning Salpausselkä Ridges as well as the Russian border. The largest lake in the district is Lake Saimaa, where you can swim, boat or just hike the perimeter and soak in the views. While in Finnish Lakeland, you can also explore the university town of Jyväskylä or the medieval St. Olaf’s Castle.

5. Turku [SEE MAP]

Turku

Along the coast of Southern Finland is Turku, a city that served as the capital of Finland for much of the 19th century and is also believed to be the oldest in the nation. Although Helsinki has long since taken over as the capital, Turku is still a major destination in Finland, and it is home to countless historic attractions and cultural landmarks. Some of the top things to see in Turku include the 13th century Turku Castle, the twin museums called Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova and the neighborhood of Luostarinmäki, which is one of the few areas with architecture that survived the early 19th century fire in the city.

4. Porvoo [SEE MAP]

Porvoo

The second-oldest town in all of Finland is Porvoo, a destination known for its unique and picturesque wooden homes. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Porvoo, known to locals as Vanha Porvoo, you can see landmarks from the 13th century, although much of the wooden architecture was constructed at the end of the 19th century. Other great ways to pass the time in Porvoo include touring the 11th century Porvoo Cathedral, exploring local art and heritage at the Porvoo Museum and indulging in delicious local pastries and candies at the Brunberg shop, an iconic business in the city.

3. Savonlinna [SEE MAP]

Savonlinna

A small city in the heart of Finnish Lakeland, Savonlinna is a charming historic destination worth a visit on your next trip to Finland. Located in the middle of Lake Saimma on a series of islands, the area’s biggest attraction is unquestionably Olavinlinna, or St. Olaf’s Castle, which was built in the 15th century. Since the castle’s location wasn’t militarily or politically important for centuries, it has withstood the test of time and remains largely intact and furnished. Also worth checking out in Savonlinna is the Orthodox Museum, the Savonlinna Provincial Museum and nearby Kerimäki, where the world’s biggest wooden church is located. In Savonlinna’s market square, be sure to dig into muikku, or a local herring dish, from one of the many vendors in the area.

2. Rovaniemi [SEE MAP]

Rovaniemi

If you want to experience the beauty of Lapland, then Rovaniemi is the ultimate gateway to it all. The capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi was completely destroyed at the end of the Second World War. As a result, much of the architecture is mid-century and brutalist in design. While Rovaniemi is home to a number of wonderful attractions, a highlight is undoubtedly that it serves as the official Finnish home to Santa Claus. Visitors can tour Santa Claus Village, get stamps from the Santa Claus Post Office and even visit the Santa-themed underground amusement park. None-Christmas attractions in Rovaniemi include the Korundi House of Culture, the Pilke Science Center and the engineering feat known as the Jätkänkynttilä Bridge.

1. Helsinki [SEE MAP]

#1 of Best Places To Visit In Finland

As the country’s capital, Helsinki is the most popular place to visit in Finland and a destination you won’t want to miss. If Helsinki looks a lot like St. Petersburg , it is because it was built to replicate the Russian city’s style in 1812. Today, some of the main attractions in Helsinki include the many churches, the three most important of which include the Lutheran Cathedral, the Church in the Rock and the Uspenski Cathedral. The stadium that served as the site of the 1952 Olympics is worth a visit, as is the art deco architecture of the Parliament House. While there are dozens of excellent museums and galleries in Helsinki, one of the best to see is the National Museum of Finland, which does a great job of tracing Finnish history over time.

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February 14, 2020 at 8:53 am

The Best country in Europe

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June 10, 2017 at 2:39 am

No kvarken archipelago? Or Kilpisjärvi? Rauma Vaasaa and Pori? you need to up the number to at least 20 places to visit. Finland is awesome.

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October 11, 2016 at 11:02 pm

Rovaniemi, definitely!

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Map of Finland

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Tourist Information

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Tourist information offices in Finland

In almost every town in Finland you’ll find a local tourist office or bureau. Usually keeping normal office hours, these bureaus provide free brochures and maps of the town or region, and details on all the best attractions.

Most of them also handle reservations for accommodation, and sell tickets for events and happenings, boat cruises. If there are local guides or guided tours, they will also have information on these too, as well as details on restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Discovering Finland have provided contact information and map locations for local and regional tourist offices, including the many that operate as part of National Parks.

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All Tourist Map

Tourist Map of Finland

Northern Europe has a natural reference point and that is Finland, with a large part of its territory made up of natural spectacles. Its location, crossing the Arctic Circle invites you to watch impressive Northern Lights and visit remote villages with millennia engraved in their memory. To make you understand how magical this country is, Santa Claus himself has his own house. Here, Christmas is a tradition that never sleeps. A country with more than 70% of its territory made up by protected areas, thousands and thousands of lakes surely have that perfect corner you have longed for. The challenge is to go on a tour around its most impressive regions, and this tourist map will be a good tool to learn what is on everyone’s lips. From its capital Helsinski to its most remote places there is a space that you will have that connection with.

  • 1 Tourist Map of Finland
  • 2 Tourist guide of Finland
  • 3 What to see in Finland
  • 4 Hotel map in Finland

Finland is a reference of happiness, Christmas and relaxing baths inside amazing natural spaces. A country that can be easily reached from Spain in only 3 hours of flight approximately. It is an ideal escape, and even a seasonal refuge. Many people wonder what the Finns are really like, since the basic reference we have is from cold and reserved northern people. On the contrary, we assure you that they will receive you with great warmth, an open mind and enough confidence as if they were waiting for you all their lives. What could be better than their natural ice-breaking environments for a naked dip (you might think so) in their accessible ice-baths or saunas in locations such as the Thousand Lake District or Nukksio National Park. You may want to add a medieval touch with Turku or St. Olaf’s Castle.

finland tourism map

To the north we find Lapland, a vast region with several towns and parks like Rovainemi and Levi, with Santa Claus, bars and restaurants that offer a young and anecdotal atmosphere, not to mention plenty of activities on the ice like fishing and reindeer sledding. There are places that have it all, just like Suomenlinna, ideal for spending a whole day with the family visiting its historical sites, lying on its grass and going through tunnels feeling the ancient marches of Swedish armies. The history of Finland can be separated into two, with the Siida Museum where you will understand the way of life of the ancient Saami people, authentic native clans that emerged thousands of years ago, and of course, the Museum of the History of Finland in its capital Helsinki that tells the story from the Middle Ages to the modern age with mere precision.

Tourist guide of Finland

This season, think about experiencing new things in a place that is worth its beauty and the hospitality offered by its people. Even if you dare to visit on holidays, you will see that moving around in the happiest country in the world will leave you with the best memories, along with the nuances of its landscapes defined by each season. The simple fact of contemplating the sun at night or the fleeting change from the urban to the historical is a gift. Come and learn more with this tourist guide to Finland. We will make special mention to its natural and historical sites spread all over the geography. All of them are a real surprise box, so keep an eye on our reviews to program the best tourist route in Northern Europe.

What to see in Finland

finland tourism map

Helsinki Tourist Map

Suomenlinna.

finland tourism map

It is an archipelago that had a lot of historical activity due to its strategic position; center of dispute with Sweden and Russia. Today you can visit and tour as a quiet or adventurous walks. The fact is that with the family, that special person or with a group of friends will have a great time and a special afternoon can take any color in this magnificent place. First of all we have the famous Zanders fortress, which besides being the jewel has a lot of history to tell us. Try also its network of tunnels, to quench your thirst for adventure. If you prefer the numerous green areas provide the perfect environment to admire the sunset thanks to the picnic. The good thing is that the archipelago, made up of six islands is completely visitable and several environments are restaurants and cafes, to the order to give you a whole afternoon fabulous.

finland tourism map

The Lapland region is a curious place located within the margins of the Arctic Circle. An unusual space in terms of long sunsets most days of the year. And in winter times when the sun is practically absent, at least partially, the sky and the horizon turn into a set of spectacular colors produced by the northern lights. This municipality has a unique culture with a nourished population in spite of the location. It is known to be the home of Santa Claus, in fact, it is his own post office, here Christmas happens every day! The region has a lot of forests and lakes that can be enjoyed through guided tours. Thanks to the snowmobiles or snowshoes you can go on an adventure on the snow and admire the winter fauna led by reindeer.

finland tourism map

Levi is the land of the ski, the best thing for this activity in the region of Lapland; this together with its wild environment. Besides, it has a rich culture that is waiting for you to integrate. You will have the opportunity to try its traditional dishes. The spirit here is hospitable and cheerful. This town has a fresh atmosphere that invites you even in winter to enjoy its streets full of bars, cafes and restaurants. That’s not to mention the many cultural activities that take place here and that attract the attention of outsiders. You can go ice fishing, or stay in glass igloos, as well as take a tourist cruise along the coast.  It’s simply an accumulation of experiences under the snow with many interesting stories.

Hossa National Park

finland tourism map

Taking a walk through this park is an encounter with the ancestral spirits of nature. They probably interacted with the first Saami people, natives of the ancient lands of the Philippines. Their footprints are duly documented in their three-thousand-year-old rock art in view of their various routes. This park is of recent creation and coincides with the centenary of Finland’s independence. It has more than 100 square kilometers of beautiful landscapes and reindeer sanctuaries. There are campsites within the park and from there you can go canoeing in the protected area. It has hundreds of clean water lakes perfect for photography. In autumn when the foliage takes on a different shade and bathes the banks of the reservoirs.

Siida Museum

finland tourism map

Lapland is a special place for Finns. Admired for its countless natural beauties, the northern zone has the places with the greatest evidence of indigenous life. The Sami, a well-known indigenous Scandinavian people, have roots in this region. And they are thousands of years old, as evidenced by the various tools and footprints, protected by the Siida Museum. From the beginning to the present day, including the events of the Second World War. Through several fixed and rotating exhibitions and depending on the seasons you can witness its art and culture. There is a photographic room fitted out all year round to appreciate the way of life of the contemporary saamis; hunting, fishing, their cultural attire and social codes. There is also a shop where you can buy their handicrafts.

Nukksio Nature Park

finland tourism map

This beautiful park is characterized by a wide extension of greenish landscapes. Different species make life in its lagoons, cliffs and gullies. In fact, it is home to some endangered species of mushrooms. Besides, this area is a faithful interpreter of the migrations of the first settlements that were established in the middle of the ice age, and their evolution in the stone, iron and bronze ages. With easy access from the capital Helsinki, many hikers prepare their luggage to undertake in groups a journey of several days where you can camp in natural environments, in order to cross an extensive network of trails. There are many areas set up for water sports, including cycling, horseback riding and fishing.

St. Olaf’s Castle

finland tourism map

Also known as the Olavilinna Castle is located in a town in the lake area of Saimaa. It dates from the fifteenth century and is considered the largest defensive construction in Finland. Built by the Danish knight Erick Axelsson Tott, it reveals its medieval past where the sound of heavy swords and armor are mere echoes of the past through its walls. Its colossal towers, which originally numbered 5, adorn the watery landscape dominating the edge of Savolinna. In fact they became the first structures to house canyons in the region. It was a bastion of the Swedish crown against Russian incursions for centuries. The castle has a museum of the Orthodox religion and another that interprets the times of its military glory.

National Museum of Finland

finland tourism map

As if it were a time capsule, this museum located in the heart of the capital of Finland. Helsinki is the promoter of historical memory from medieval to modern times. From the beginning and waiting for us with fine paintings belonging to the times of the Russian Tsars, the traces of a complex but exciting history of these ancient monarchs. But from Russian and Swedish kingdoms also the museum offers an excellent ethnographic work about the daily life of the Finns in the Middle Ages. From everyday utensils, hunting and fishing tools to models of houses. The pieces of walls and ceilings invite to learn about the ancestral engineering developed by these ancient inhabitants. You can access for only 10 euros every day of the week except Mondays.

finland tourism map

Turku is a beautiful town, the typical nucleus that includes all the elements of the typical medieval city. It is a pleasure to walk through its cobbled streets and listen to the pleasant noise of its people toasting in some bar. The Aura River runs through the town, but with a serene rhythm, the soul of its historical centre. Castle and museums, both historical and contemporary, and squares are integrated under a young atmosphere. Here the historical space is mixed with musical and cultural events for all ages. It has an aquatic centre that serves as a museum with old barges. If you prefer to immerse yourself in everyday life you can visit its market square.

Thousand Lakes Region

finland tourism map

As its name indicates, it comprises an extensive area of hundreds of thousands of lakes that inject life into the vegetation, giving it a fresh environment. A space that you can canoe across its many bridges.  Explore its group of islands where you can see beautiful houses. Getting here and letting the days go by is no problem as the area has cabins in a lot of places. It’s not worth determining which visit is a priority, it’s about letting yourself be absorbed by this paradise and losing track of time and space. If we are talking about enjoying nature to the full, it is because you will be free to do so. This is what your naturalistic culture suggests, raising your awareness by admiring the autochthonous and magic of nature.

Hotel map in Finland

Finland is a different destination, it allows the adventurous, fantasy and creative spirit to invade you. Being in contact with the unusual is positive if you do it under a cordial treatment, you will surely have reciprocity. It is a fact that unorthodox forms of accommodation are found in this land of contrasts. You will have to spend a whole afternoon if you want to know the places that are in vogue, such as ice hotels, cabins, bed and breakfast, even in Santa’s land. For that you will have plenty of information with our map of hotels in Finland. Do you want an unforgettable experience? Santa Claus Holiday Village in Rovaniemi It is the best option, with the most beautiful night view and the warmth of its saunas and comfortable cabins.

Video of Finland’s most striking places

Maps of Finland

On FinlandMap360° you will find all maps to print and to download in PDF of the country of Finland in Northern Europe. You have at your disposal a whole set of maps of Finland in Northern Europe: detailed map of Finland (Finland on world map, political map), geographic map (physical map of Finland, regions map), transports map of Finland (road map, train map, airports map), Finland tourist attractions map and and other maps of Finland in Northern Europe (black and white map).

All Finland maps

To discover the country Finland, the detailed map of Finland and the maps of the regions and administrative are available. Take the opportunity to discover major cities and locate the capital. To learn a little more about the geography of Finland, physical map and maps of mountains, rivers and elevation will be very useful. To help you move into the country, you may use transportation maps of Finland. It includes the Finland road map, train network and airports of Finland. To visit Finland in Northern Europe, you will find the tourist attractions maps highlighting monuments of Finland, but also the wine map of Finland. You will also find other maps like: blank map of Finland and some old maps of Finland in Northern Europe.

IMAGES

  1. Finland Map of Major Sights and Attractions

    finland tourism map

  2. Finland

    finland tourism map

  3. Map of Finland

    finland tourism map

  4. Finland Maps & Facts

    finland tourism map

  5. Interactive map of Finland

    finland tourism map

  6. Finland Maps

    finland tourism map

VIDEO

  1. Departure at Port of Hanko Finland

  2. Finland winter tourism 20 jan 2024

  3. FINLAND VLOG🇫🇮: my travel to helsinki + explore the city

  4. *😁😁😁#finland #europeantravel #travel #traveldestinations

  5. Rovaniemi Finland Day 1| Finnish lapland

  6. Ultimate Reasons to Visit Finland

COMMENTS

  1. Your Official Finland Travel Guide

    Join us in making Finland one of the world's most sustainable travel destinations and take our pledge. Everything you need to know about snow. Finns are no strangers to winter living but visitors have lots of questions about travelling to this snowy country of ours. Must-visit museums in Finland. From art to history and science - here's a look ...

  2. 14 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Finland (+Map)

    Meanwhile, modern cities and towns stay in tune with the times by offering world-class dining and accommodation options. Here's a look at the top tourist attractions in Finland: 14. Old Rauma. Eevi Alanissi / Flickr. The small city of Rauma was founded in the 1300's, making it one of the most ancient towns in Finland.

  3. Finland travel

    Get to the heart of Finland with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance. Shop Our Guidebooks. Go Beyond Finland and beyond. Beyond Finland. Helsinki. Punavuori & Ullanlinna. Turku & Finland's South Coast. Lapland. ...

  4. Tourism Guide Finland

    Finland has it all. From the incredible scattering of islands in Europe's largest archipelago, to the hilly countryside of Finnish Lapland, the landscape of Finland is a pristine paradise for nature lovers.With midnight sun in the summer, and the ephemeral allure of the Northern Lights in the winter, Finland possesses a wealth of rare beauty, a truly distinctive ambience.

  5. Take a tour of Finland, region by region

    17. Northern Ostrobothnia (Pohjois-Pohjanmaa) Oulanka river in Kuusamo covers 135 km and is part of the River Koutajoki waterway that runs into the White Sea. Photo: Hannu Hautala/Visit Finland. Oulu, the capital of this large region, is known as a city of technology and startups.

  6. Finland Map

    Finland. Finland is a country vast areas of unspoiled nature speckled with comfortable small towns and cities. Scraped flat by sheets of ice during several ice ages, Finland lacks the dramatic mountains and fjords of its Nordic neighbours but makes up for it with 188,000 lakes and a similar number of islands. Overview. Map. Directions. Satellite.

  7. Map of Finland

    Plan your trip around Finland with interactive travel maps. Explore all regions of Finland with maps by Rough Guides. Tailor-made Travel. Destinations. Blog. Shop. Map of Finland. Tailor-made Travel. Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts . I WANT TO TRAVEL IN: Mar 2024. plan my trip. roughguides.com;

  8. Finland tourist info and travel guide

    September 10, 2022. Finland Travel Info is an easy tourist info and travel guide when traveling in Finland. Find the best travel tips from our users, partners and friends around the world! Finlandtravel.fi helps you find accommodation, activities, places to visit and popular local services in Finland!

  9. Interactive map of Finland

    A humble but powerful Finnish invention: Pedestrian safety reflectors save lives. Invented by a Finnish farmer in 1963, the pedestrian reflector is still helping people stay safe all over the world. Tagged in Business Entrepreneurs Finland Finnishness History Innovation Lifestyle Society Technology. Life & society Environment.

  10. 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Finland

    Winter or summer, Finland offers plenty of things to do. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Finland. 1. Suomenlinna Fortress. 2. Kauppatori (Market Square) and Esplanadi. 3. Rovaniemi and the Arctic. 4.

  11. 10 of the best places to visit in Finland

    Finland's largest fortress, Turun Linna, rewinds to the 13th century with its dungeons and lavish banqueting halls. And Turun Tuomiokirkko, the "mother church" of Finland's Lutheran faith, is a Gothic vision in red brick. Visit during the silent hour (9-10am) as the morning sun slants through the windows to see it at its most atmospheric.

  12. Tourism in Finland

    Attractions People hiking in the Koli National Park. Finland is famous for its many lakes, nearly 200,000 of them (larger than 500 m 2 /0.12 acres). Tampere is the biggest city on the Finnish Lakeland with other major cities being Jyväskylä, Mikkeli, Lahti, Joensuu, Lappeenranta, Kuopio, and Savonlinna.Finland is also known to have excellent water quality, and green deep woods and forests ...

  13. Your Official Finland Travel Guide

    /en/web/guest/finland-guide/home/

  14. Finland Travel Guide by Rick Steves

    Finland is a fun, fascinating, sadly overlooked corner of Europe, with a small population filling a sprawling, rocky, forested land that shares a long border with Russia. The Finns often have been overshadowed by their powerful neighbors, the Swedes and the Russians. And yet, they've persevered magnificently, with good humor, a zest for architecture and design, a deep love of saunas, and an ...

  15. 10 Best Places to Visit in Finland (+Map)

    While in Finnish Lakeland, you can also explore the university town of Jyväskylä or the medieval St. Olaf's Castle. 5. Turku [SEE MAP] Along the coast of Southern Finland is Turku, a city that served as the capital of Finland for much of the 19th century and is also believed to be the oldest in the nation.

  16. Finland tourist attractions on the map, View Map of Finland

    Finland tourist attractions on the map, View Map of Finland

  17. Finland Tourist Map

    Tourist Map Of Finland . View In Full Screen . All Destinations in Finland . Click on an Destination to view it on map . 1. Saariselka 2. Helsinki 3. Espoo 4. Huhus 5. Rovaniemi 6. Kajaani 7. Inari 8. Turku ...

  18. Map of Finland

    Map of Finland. Facts and map brochure of Finland in six languages (English, Spanish, Italian, French, German and Russian). Downloads. Download. File format PDF . Map Tourism. Edited: 17.12.2015. Related files. ... The outlook for the travel industry in Finland looks very positive. Safe and sustainable business environment creates a strong ...

  19. Tourist Information

    Tourist information offices in Finland. In almost every town in Finland you'll find a local tourist office or bureau. Usually keeping normal office hours, these bureaus provide free brochures and maps of the town or region, and details on all the best attractions. Most of them also handle reservations for accommodation, and sell tickets for ...

  20. Tourist Map of Finland in 2024

    1 Tourist Map of Finland. 2 Tourist guide of Finland. 3 What to see in Finland. 4 Hotel map in Finland. Finland is a reference of happiness, Christmas and relaxing baths inside amazing natural spaces. A country that can be easily reached from Spain in only 3 hours of flight approximately. It is an ideal escape, and even a seasonal refuge.

  21. Finland maps: transports, geography and tourist maps of Finland in

    To help you move into the country, you may use transportation maps of Finland. It includes the Finland road map, train network and airports of Finland. To visit Finland in Northern Europe, you will find the tourist attractions maps highlighting monuments of Finland, but also the wine map of Finland. You will also find other maps like: blank map ...