Top 10 Finland Must-Sees

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Last updated:
21.09.2020

Often people are tempted to book tours to Finland just for this unique opportunity - to meet real Santa Claus! But there is more to Finland than that, it is an extremely welcoming, inspiring and unique country, with hundreds of outdoor activities, food, and unspoiled nature. Here's our top 10!

Ready for a country of thousands of lakes and forests? Spice up your experience with one of our suggested activities, and we are sure this trip will leave an everlasting impression!

1. The Midsummer Sun

Did you know that not only Norway but Finland too is often called the land of the Midnight sun? Yes, it actually is!

midsummer

Those who decide to venture north of the Arctic Circle during the summer will be rewarded with the most spectacular nightless nights, the most iconic natural phenomenon in Finland.

How dazzling it is! You can finally get those extra hours you kept dreaming of in your day! We suggest you travel in June - July, as these are the months during which the nights are almost as light as days.

2.The Unforgettable Northern Lights

As we mentioned in our article dedicated to the Northern Lights, Finland is considered to be one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world.

Moreover, the country's Lapland region has many developed areas designed for Northern Lights enthusiasts. You can even try witnessing the Northern Lights while skiing or as you're warmly snuggled in your impressive glass igloo.

northern lighs

This experience is indeed the most enjoyable for our travelers, and it might become your number one too!

Learn more about the the Northern Lights experiences.

See top destinations for the Northern Lights tours.

Where is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights?
Lapland region has many developed areas designed for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

3. Archipelago National Park

Lovers of the outdoors are spoiled for choice in Finland. Is it you?

If yes, then we suggest visiting at least one national park, though there are 40! One of the most stunning ones is, of course, Archipelago National Park, often described as the world's most beautiful one.

Parks

There are plenty of activities, starting from swimming, cycling, birdwatching, kayaking, sailing, and even diving.

Simply being there magically makes one filled with happiness and peacefulness.

4. Turku City

Finland's oldest city, founded in the 13th century, will surprise you with its rich cultural heritage, churches, museums, and the fantastic river Aura.

In Turku, you can also find one of Finland's most important monuments, Turku Cathedral.

turku

It is a gorgeous place where you can also learn about Finish history since the 14th century.

The medieval Finish city Turku is located just 60 kilometers from Archipelago National Park, or you can conveniently reach it from Helsinki by train (~2,5 hours).

TIP:
You can easily reach Turku via Finnish trains. Book your Helsinki - Turku train online in advance.

5. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

Pin up a pin on your map when visiting Finland! The Fortress of Suomenlinna has defended three different sovereign states since 1748, no wonder it is such a historical, and fascinating place to explore!

Soumenlinna

It was built on a group of islands in the 18th century and is now legally protected under national legislation. It is included in the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

It will take you around ~20 minutes to access it by water from Helsinki, but it is a worthwhile journey, as you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the capital.

Why was Suomenlinna built?
Suomenlinna was built during the Swedish era as a maritime fortress & a base for the Archipelago Fleet.

6. Sauna Gondola and Ice Swimming

When in Finland, you just have to try their sauna. It is one of the oldest and most beloved traditions in Finland.

sauna

No wonder there are so many different ways to enjoy it. One of which - sauna gondola! Most probably the only one like this in the world - you enjoy a breathtaking tour while warming up in the sauna.

Want more challenging and rewarding activities? Try out ice swimming! Yes, you heard it right, if traveling in wintertime, you can combine your sauna experience with a refreshing swim in a lake, a river, or even a sea!

7. Santa Claus & Glass Igloos. Rovaniemi, Finland

Have you ever wondered how incredible it would be to step back into your childhood, that glorious chapter of life?

Well, you can, in Rovaniemi! It is one of the most visited places in Finland, where all year round families and travelers come to find their Christmas Spirit, as it is the official hometown of Santa Claus.

rovaniemi

It is also a great destination to experience the magic of the Northern Lights and offers unique accommodation.

Gazing at the sky in your cozy and warm hotel, or challenging yourself with an even more unique experience and staying in a snow hotel - you have all the choices in Rovaniemi.

8. Arctic Lapland Life: Rovaniemi, Ivalo, Inari

Finland gives you the full spectrum no matter what you seek. Above everything else, though, it is a perfect place to escape back to nature and experience the authentic arctic life. Rovaniemi, Ivalo, and Inari are the most popular places in Lapland, offering an astounding variety of tourist attractions. Feel the beauty of northern nature on a snowmobile safari, reindeer, or husky ride.

lapland

Plunge into the spirit of Christmas in Santa Claus Village and Snowman World. Feel like the real Lappish while staying in the Kakslauttanen Glass Igloo Resort admiring the Northern Lights dance in the clear night skies.

Visit the Sami Museum to learn more about the people and nature of Northern Lapland.

9. Savonlinna

Savonlinna is situated in the heart of the Saimaa lake region, and this is one of those places that surround you with a peaceful atmosphere and rhythm of life.

Savonlinna

The most outstanding landmarks of Savonlinna, including the famous Savonlinna Provincial Museum and the Olavinlinna Castle, should be on your list.

To enhance our travelers' experience we include a magnificent 1,5-hour boat ride around Lake Saimaa, invite to have lunch at the brewery restaurant Huvila, set in an old villa, with a beer tasting of beverages made in the brewery.

10. Helsinki

Summer, Fall, Winter, or Spring, there is no bad time to visit Helsinki! It is a wonderful wonderful city with so many not-to-miss activities regardless of the season.

helsinki

And if you really want to see the best this city has to offer, don't miss its beautiful Old Town and the Market Square, which is the epicenter of life, check out the open-air museum of Seurasaari, and, if you enjoy modern art - visit the Kiasma Museum.

There are also many hallmarks within an easy reach from Helsinki that are worth including in your itinerary: the outstanding Nuuksio National Park, the idyllic old town of Porvoo, and the Punkaharju ridge area with breathtaking sceneries.

What to See in Helsinki?

  • Helsinki Cathedral
  • Temppeliaukion Church
  • Market Square
  • Senate Square
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

If you consider Finland for your next getaway but still have doubts about when to go, what to wear, or which sights to include to make it a trip of a lifetime, read this Trip Planner for Scandinavia, search our tours to Finland, and don't hesitate to contact our travel specialist. We can't wait to see you on one of our tours!