Top 10 Places to Visit in Finland

The dynamic capital city of Finland boasts a captivating blend of historic charm and contemporary flair. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where centuries-old landmarks stand in juxtaposition to sleek modern architecture. On your trip to Helsinki, dive into the city's thriving culinary scene, savoring traditional Finnish dishes like salmon soup and Karelian pastries at trendy eateries and street food markets. With its bustling waterfront, cultural attractions, and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Helsinki is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Finland.

Highlights:

• Delve into Helsinki’s architectural wonders at Temppeliaukio Church, carved into solid rock. Its unique design and acoustics make it a must-see attraction in Helsinki.
• Embark on a ferry journey to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO-listed sea fortress and one of the top places to visit in Helsinki. Explore the fortress walls, museums, and bunkers.   
• Enjoy the quintessential Finnish sauna experience, a great way to relax and socialize with locals. 
• Immerse yourself in the sleek lines and innovative creations of Finnish design at the Design District, showcasing everything from fashion to furniture in its trendy boutiques and galleries.

Insider's tip: Time your visit around the Lux Helsinki Light Festival, which takes place in January, to see the city’s architecture and public spaces illuminated with brilliant light installations.

Santa Claus Village isn’t just a whimsical theme park in Rovaniemi; it encompasses the surrounding area filled with magical experiences, cultural landmarks, and winter activities. The most famous attraction here is the Santa Claus Office, where you can meet Santa. The village sits atop the Arctic Circle and offers tons of activities like reindeer sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and ice fishing, making it one of the best places to visit in Finland for all age groups.

Highlights:

• Enjoy thrilling winter activities like husky sled rides, reindeer sleigh rides, and snowmobile safaris, immersing yourself in the enchanting Lapland landscape during winter in Finland.
• Meet Santa Claus and share your holiday wishes directly with Father Christmas himself.
• Marvel at the magical Northern Lights, a breathtaking natural phenomenon visible from the village on clear winter nights.
• Explore the nearby Arctic Circle Hiking Area, offering scenic trails and opportunities to witness the pristine beauty of the Arctic wilderness.

Insider's tip: Make reservations well in advance to book a private family “meet and greet” with Santa Claus at his cozy cabin.

Lemmenjoki National Park is often described as one of Finland’s most pristine wilderness areas, a reputation that is reflected both in its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful hike through the ancient forests, explore the gold mining history along the Lemmenjoki River, and experience Sami culture at a local reindeer farm before ending the day under the mesmerizing Northern Lights in one of the park’s cozy wilderness huts.

Highlights:

• Embark on a riverboat cruise along the Lemmenjoki River, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
• Hike through the park’s diverse landscapes for breathtaking vistas. 
• Experience the midnight sun phenomenon during the summer months, with endless daylight hours for extended outdoor adventures and exploration.
• Learn about the indigenous Sámi culture and visit local reindeer farms, gaining insight into their traditional way of life.

Insider's tip: Book a guided tour with Sami reindeer herder to experience their traditional way of life and reindeer lasso skills firsthand.

Porvoo is one of the oldest cities in Finland, known for its charming old town with colorful wooden houses and cobblestone streets. The Porvoo Cathedral and the 15th-century old town offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The Porvoo River runs through the town and is perfect for leisurely boat trips and picturesque views. The city also offers cozy cafes, unique boutiques, and a variety of restaurants.

Highlights:

• Visit the Porvoo Cathedral, an iconic landmark dating back to the 15th century known for its stunning architecture.
• Stroll along the picturesque Porvoo River, enjoying the scenic views and tranquil ambiance of the riverside promenade.
• Take a tour of the Porvoo Museum, housed in two historic buildings, where you can delve into the town’s fascinating history and cultural heritage.
• Take a riverboat cruise to see Porvoo from a different perspective.

Insider's tip: Follow the self-guided Porvoo trail through Old Town to explore its historical buildings and cathedral.

The historic city of Turku boasts a wealth of attractions, making it one of the top places to visit in Finland. Discover the beauty of the Archipelago Sea with its stunning islands and coastal charm. Immerse yourself in the city center with iconic landmarks such as Turku Castle and the Turku Cathedral. Explore the lively River Aura and its banks, lined with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and cafes.

Highlights

• Explore Turku Castle, a medieval fortress with over 700 years of history, offering fascinating exhibits and guided tours through its ancient halls and dungeons.
• Visit the Turku Cathedral, a stunning Gothic structure and one of Finland’s most important religious buildings, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.
• Stroll along the Aura River, enjoying the scenic riverfront with its lively atmosphere, charming cafes, and picturesque views.
• Relax in the beautiful Turku Archipelago, a network of over 20,000 islands offering serene landscapes, outdoor activities, and idyllic seaside villages.

Insider's tip: Take a guided kayaking tour along the Aura River that runs through the heart of Turku to experience the city’s medieval architecture from an entirely new vantage point.

Nestled in the heart of Finland’s lake district, Savonlinna is one of the prettiest destinations in the country. Delve into the serene beauty of Lake Saimaa, dotted with picturesque islands and surrounded by lush forests. Immerse yourself in history at the majestic Olavinlinna Castle, a symbol of medieval heritage. Experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Savonlinna Opera Festival, held annually in this charming lakeside town. Explore the quaint streets and waterfront promenades, offering a delightful array of cafes, restaurants, and shops set against breathtaking natural scenery.

Highlights:

• Explore Olavinlinna Castle, a medieval fortress perched on an island. It hosts the world-renowned Savonlinna Opera Festival amidst its ancient walls.
• Cruise the picturesque Saimaa Lake, the largest lake in Finland, dotted with countless islands, offering breathtaking views of the pristine Finnish Lakeland.
• Visit the Savonlinna Market Square, which offers a variety of local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• Explore the Linnansaari National Park, a haven for nature lovers, with its rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife, including the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.

Insider's tip: Attend an opera performance inside the medieval Olavinlinna Castle fortifications during the Savonlinna Opera Festival in July.

Surrounded by the shimmering waters of Lake Näsijärvi and the Tammerkoski Rapids, Tampere offers a serene escape amidst Finland's natural beauty. From the vibrant atmosphere of Hämeenkatu to the historic charm of Tampella, Tampere's diverse neighborhoods promise unique experiences. Explore the lush parks and green spaces that dot the city, providing tranquil retreats from urban life. With its blend of culture, history, and natural surroundings, Tampere stands out as one of the top 10 places to visit in Finland.

Highlights:

• Ascend Pyynikki Observation Tower for panoramic views of Tampere and its surrounding lakes, forests, and parks.
• Explore the Moomin Museum, showcasing the beloved characters of Finnish author Tove Jansson through interactive exhibits and original artwork.
• Stroll along the Tammerkoski Rapids, the heart of Tampere’s industrial heritage, where historic red-brick factories and old mill buildings line the picturesque waterfront.
• Discover the vibrant Finlayson Area, a former industrial district transformed into a cultural hub with trendy cafes, boutiques, and art galleries.
• Visit Särkänniemi Amusement Park, offering thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and family-friendly attractions, including an aquarium, planetarium, and a dolphinarium.

Insider's tip: Experience Tampere's industrial heritage by touring the underground Rajaportti Sauna, a former Soviet prison cellar converted into an authentic smoke sauna, followed by ice swimming in the Tammerkoski Rapids.

Set amid the serene wilderness of Finland's North Karelia region, Koli National Park stands as a testament to the country's breathtaking natural beauty. Towering peaks and ancient forests offer a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails leading to panoramic vistas over the vast expanse of Lake Pielinen. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this pristine wilderness, where the timeless allure of Finland's landscapes unfolds in every direction. From the rugged cliffs of Ukko-Koli to the serene shores of Lake Pielinen, Koli National Park promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the wonders of nature.

Highlights:

• Hike to the summit of Ukko-Koli Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Pielinen and the surrounding wilderness.
• Explore the Herajärvi Circuit Trail, winding through pristine forests, rugged cliffs, and tranquil lakeshores. 
• Visit the Koli Nature Centre Ukko, where interactive exhibits and guided tours showcase the park's natural wonders, geological history, and cultural heritage, providing insights into the region's unique ecosystems.
• Experience the tranquility of Lake Pielinen, whether by kayaking its crystal-clear waters, fishing for trout and salmon, or simply relaxing on its sandy shores, surrounded by the beauty of Koli National Park.

Insider's tip: Hike up Ukko-Koli Hill at sunrise or sunset to witness the "working hours" of light across the region's stunning forests and lakes.

Explore the pristine wilderness of Finland with a visit to Urho Kekkonen National Park, a vast expanse of untouched nature in the heart of Lapland. Named after the former president of Finland, this national treasure is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes of rugged fells, dense forests, and serene rivers. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for wildlife, including reindeer, bears, and golden eagles. Visitors can embark on scenic hiking trails, traverse the snowy terrain on skis, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Northern Lights.

Highlights:

• Hike through the stunning landscapes of Urho Kekkonen National Park, which features diverse trails that traverse ancient forests, sweeping tundra, and rugged highlands.
• Explore the magical world of the Northern Lights. Winter nights offer the perfect backdrop for witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon in one of Finland’s prime aurora-viewing locations.
• Relax in the tranquil Laanila and Kiilopää areas, where you can soak in traditional Finnish saunas, enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, and immerse yourself in the serene Arctic environment.
• Experience the thrill of a husky safari, gliding through snow-covered trails pulled by enthusiastic sled dogs.

Insider's tip: Book an overnight stay in one of the park's traditional Sami-style kodas (teepees) and have an Indigenous Sami guide teach you how to cook fish and reindeer over an open fire using ancestral methods.

Dominated by the serene expanse of Lake Kallavesi, Kuopio's picturesque landscapes offer a tranquil retreat into nature. Beyond its scenic charm, the city boasts a rich cultural tapestry, exemplified by landmarks such as the Puijo Tower, which provides breathtaking panoramic views. Kuopio is a haven for food enthusiasts, renowned for its traditional Finnish cuisine, particularly the famous kalakukko. The city's lively market square, bustling with local vendors, adds to the immersive experience, making Kuopio a delightful blend of scenic serenity and cultural richness.

Highlights:

• Ascend Puijo Tower for stunning 360-degree views of Kuopio, the surrounding lakes, and the picturesque Finnish countryside. 
• Explore the Kuopio Market Hall, where you can sample traditional Finnish delicacies, shop for fresh produce, and browse unique handicrafts.
• Relax at the Rauhalahti Spa, where you can enjoy a variety of wellness treatments, saunas, and hot tubs in a tranquil environment.
• Visit the Kuopio Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of Finnish art, including contemporary works and historical pieces, providing insight into the country’s rich artistic heritage.
• Stroll around Väinölänniemi Park, a scenic lakeside park ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities.

Insider's tip: Kuopio is known for this distinctive regional dish, so taking a kalakukko baking class provides an immersive way to connect with this city's local cuisine and traditions.

If you're looking for the best places to visit in Finland, make sure to include these must-see destinations on your itinerary. Also, check out our guide on the best time to visit Finland and how many days to spend in Finland to plan your trip to this Nordic adventure land. Our guide on things to do in Finland will also come in handy.