What to do in finland?

By HotBotUpdated: July 31, 2024

Explore Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, offers a delightful mix of modern innovation and rich historical sites. Start your journey at the Helsinki Cathedral, an iconic symbol of the city with its striking white facade and green domes. The Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art showcases cutting-edge Finnish and international art, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Don't miss the Sea Life Helsinki, an aquarium that offers a fascinating look into marine life. If you're visiting in the summer, the Linnanmäki Amusement Park provides fun for all ages. For a taste of Finnish cuisine, head to the Old Market Hall where you can sample local delicacies like reindeer meat and salmon pastries.

Experience Finnish Nature

Finland is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. One of the best ways to experience this is by visiting Nuuksio National Park, located just outside Helsinki. Here, you can hike through lush forests, canoe on serene lakes, or even stay overnight in a traditional Finnish cabin.

For a more remote experience, head to Urho Kekkonen National Park in Finnish Lapland. This park offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and even spotting reindeer and other wildlife. In the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Discover Finnish Sauna Culture

No trip to Finland is complete without experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna. With over 2 million saunas in the country, you'll have plenty of options. Löyly in Helsinki offers a modern take on the traditional sauna experience, complete with a stunning view of the Baltic Sea.

For a more authentic experience, visit Kotiharju Sauna, one of the oldest public saunas in Helsinki. If you venture to the Finnish countryside, many lakeside cottages come equipped with their own saunas, allowing you to enjoy this quintessential Finnish pastime in a serene natural setting.

Witness the Northern Lights

One of the most magical experiences in Finland is witnessing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is from late September to early April. Head to Finnish Lapland, where the skies are often clear and the lights are at their most vibrant.

Popular spots to view the Northern Lights include Saariselkä, Rovaniemi, and Levi. Consider staying in a glass igloo at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort for an unforgettable experience of watching the lights dance across the sky from the comfort of your bed.

Engage in Winter Sports

Finland offers a plethora of winter sports activities that cater to all levels of experience. Levi is one of the most popular ski resorts in the country, offering slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and even snowshoeing. The resort also provides opportunities for snowmobiling and husky sled rides.

If you're an avid skier, head to Ylläs, which boasts the longest slopes in Finland. For a unique experience, try ice fishing on one of Finland's many frozen lakes, or take part in a traditional reindeer sleigh ride in Lapland.

Visit Historical Sites

Finland is home to numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into the country's past. The Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. Located on a cluster of islands just off the coast of Helsinki, it offers fascinating museums, guided tours, and beautiful walking paths.

The Turku Castle, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest buildings in Finland and provides insight into medieval Finnish life. In Tampere, the Vapriikki Museum Centre houses several museums under one roof, including the Natural History Museum and the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame.

Enjoy Finnish Festivals

Finland hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year that celebrate everything from music to food. The Flow Festival in Helsinki is one of the most popular music festivals in the country, featuring a mix of international and local artists.

For a more traditional experience, visit during Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice with bonfires, music, and dancing. Winter brings the Rovaniemi Christmas Market, where you can meet Santa Claus himself and enjoy festive treats and crafts.

Indulge in Finnish Cuisine

Finnish cuisine is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. Start with a hearty breakfast of Karjalanpiirakka, a traditional Karelian pie filled with rice porridge. For lunch, try Poronkäristys, a dish made from sautéed reindeer meat, typically served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.

In Helsinki, visit Savoy for a fine dining experience that showcases Finnish ingredients and culinary techniques. For dessert, indulge in Korvapuusti, a Finnish cinnamon bun that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee.

Unique and Hidden Gems

For those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, Finland offers numerous hidden gems. The Haltia Nature Centre in Espoo provides interactive exhibits that showcase the diverse ecosystems of Finland. Another unique destination is the Helsinki Art Museum (HAM), which features a collection of public artworks scattered throughout the city.

For a quirky experience, visit the Finnish Postal Museum in Tampere, where you can learn about the history of postal services in Finland. In Turku, the Wäinö Aaltonen Museum of Art offers a fascinating look into the works of one of Finland's most renowned sculptors.

As you can see, Finland offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city life of Helsinki, immersing yourself in the tranquility of Finnish nature, or delving into the country's rich history and culture, there's something for everyone in this Nordic gem. The possibilities are endless, and the choice is yours.

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