The place has many stunning landscapes, rich culture, and experiences that will make your visit adventurous and unforgettable. Finland is the best option if you want to enjoy an adventure, learn history, or relax at the same time. But before that, you should fulfill your visa requirements and essential paperwork, as you’ll need your visa to visit here.
Now that you have your Finland visa and packed your suitcases, here are the top 15 things to do in Finland that will make your visit memorable to this beautiful Nordic country.
1. Northern Lights: Witness the Magic of the North in the ‘Land of the Midnight Sun’
One of the greatest magical experiences in Finland is seeing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Imagine the sky changing color. You can fulfill this imagination by traveling north to Lapland during the winter, where you’ll have the best chance to see these amazing dancing lights. It is a speechless experience.
Location: Certain regions further to the north, such as Lapland
Best Time: From September to March
Local Attractions: Near Santa Claus Village, there is Levi Ski Resort
2. Architectural Wonders in Helsinki
Helsinki has stunning architecture. Everywhere you look, you’ll see a mix of old and new, each place has its own story. From the modern Kamppi Chapel of Silence to the historic Helsinki Cathedral.
Do not forget to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site Suomenlinna an 18th-century sea fort, which offers magnificent views and insight into Finland’s military history. Walking through the streets of Helsinki feels like stepping into a beautiful storybook where every corner reveals another architectural wonder.
Location: Helsinki
Best Time: Any time of the year
Nearby Attractions: Market Square, Uspenski Cathedral, Esplanadi Park
3. Enjoy a Sauna Experience
Saunas are a big part of Finnish life. Imagine yourself sitting in a traditional sauna by a quiet lake, or in a modern sauna downtown. There is a wide choice of places for relaxation and gaining new strengths—all over the country, over two million saunas.
You can experience a traditional sauna next to a lake during your visit or go to a sauna in the city. It will help you to get stress-free and recharge you completely.
Location: All over Finland
Best Time: Any time of the year
Nearby Attractions: Several lakes, public saunas in cities
4. Visit Santa Claus Village
This is likely the most beautiful fun park in the snow mountains of Lapland and often gets referred to as the Disneyland of Finland. There are many restaurants, rides, a hotel made of igloos, and many kinds of safaris and outings.
Make your journey worth remembering visiting during winter or around Christmas. Who hasn’t dreamt of seeing Santa Claus? You can live that dream not only by seeing him but also by crossing the Arctic Circle.
Location: Rovaniemi
Best Time: From December to January
Nearby Attractions: Arktikum Museum, Ounasvaara Ski Resort, Ranua Wildlife Park
5. Ski in Levi
Levi is a well-known ski resort in Finland. It is a fantastic destination for skiing and snowboarding vacations. It offers slopes perfect for all skill levels and a range of winter sports activities you can enjoy. Skiing in Levi during winter is a good way to dive into the winter sports culture in Finland.
The snowy landscapes add even more to the beauty. If you go snowboarding there, it will be one of the best experiences of your life, whether you’re a beginner or an expert. And at the top, you get to enjoy the beautiful winteristic view.
Location: Levi
Best Time: December to April
Close By: Levi Ice Gallery, Luvattumaa Levi Ice Hotel
6. Go to Savonlinna Along with the Castle
The city is best known for its medieval Olavinlinna Castle. This castle hosts the popular Savonlinna Opera Festival each year. You can explore Savonlinna and go through most of Finland’s history and culture.
The sight across the lake makes the town even more beautiful where you’ll see scenes that will leave impressions on your memory.
Location: Savonlinna
Best Time: From May to September
Nearby Attractions: Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna Market Square
7. Explore Åland Islands
It is a quiet getaway in beautiful surroundings with a history behind it. Come here if you want to feel nature around you and be aware of the cultural aspects. These islands will provide a lovely experience with pretty street views and interesting museums. The beauty of the Åland Islands will make your trip special.
Location: Near Åland Islands, an autonomous region within Finland
Best Time: From June to August
Nearby Attractions: Mariehamn, Kastelholm Castle, Pommern Museum Ship
8. Take a look at the Sibelius Monument
The monument in Helsinki is dedicated to the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. This amazing structure was made with hundreds of steel pipes. The stand is in Sibelius Park. A visit to the monument will let you feel Finnish art and culture. The area surrounding the park is calm and serene.
Location: Helsinki
Best Time: Whole year
Nearby Attractions: Sibelius Park, Temppeliaukio Church
9. Explore Turku and Its Castle
Turku is the oldest city in Finland. It gives you a mix of history and modern fun together. Turku Castle is among the best recommendations, to get an insight into the medieval past of the city.
Walking through Turku feels like traveling back in time. As you explore, you’ll discover a lot of vibrant sights and activities, making it a unique historical experience.
Location: Turku
Best Time: Round the year
Nearby Attractions: Turku Castle, Turku Art Museum, Aura River
10. Nuuksio National Park
It is a beautiful location near Helsinki. It has hiking trails, lakes, and forests, ensuring a great hiking experience. A single visit to Nuuksio will help you appreciate Finland’s nature and provide a break from the hustle of city life.
Location: Near Helsinki
Best Time: May to October
Nearby Attractions: Finnish Nature Center Haltia, Espoo
11. Learn About the Industrial History of Tampere
Most visitors to Tampere know about its industrial history as its culture is quite vibrant. The city’s history and industry are well documented at the Vapriikki Museum. Visiting Tampere helps you learn, how Finland has evolved from an exciting past. Anyone who learn about Finnish history, it is a must-visit with such amazing attractions and an energetic vibe.
Location: Tampere
Best Time: Whole year
Nearby Attractions: Vapriikki Museum, Näsinneula Observation Tower
12. Visit Porvoo Old Town
Porvoo’s Old Town is beautiful with its colorful wooden buildings and cobblestone streets. Visit to this place makes you feel like you are traveling back in time because of these attractive old buildings. You can immerse yourself in this historic place and cozy cafes are spread in Porvoo. It is a perfect day trip out of Helsinki to get a glimpse of Finnish history and charm.
Location: Porvoo
Best Time: Round the year
Nearby Attractions: Porvoo Cathedral, Runeberg’s Home
13. Shopping at Kauppatori Market Square
The Kauppatori market in Helsinki is always lively with many stalls selling local crafts. It is a perfect place to explore Finnish culture and to pick up presents. Don’t forget to buy special knick-knacks to remind you of your trip.
Location: Helsinki
Best Time: Throughout the year
Nearby Attractions: Helsinki City Hall, Allas Sea Pool Located beside Lake Saimaa
14. Relax at Lake Saimaa
Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland. It has a fantastic view and a wide range of activities available. You can practice boating, fishing, and trekking in this peaceful place. While chilling beside Lake Saimaa, it’s more like a calming experience with nature. It’s a perfect place for nature lovers to relax and adore the beauty of Finland.
Place: Eastern Finland
Best Time: June to August
Nearby Attraction: Lappeenranta, Savonlinna, Linnansaari National Park
15. Feeling the Midnight Sun in Lapland
The most surprising part of summer in Finnish Lapland is when the sun does not sink below the horizon. Its golden rays shine at midnight, too. The endless activities that mix perfectly include hiking, fishing, or relaxing in nature’s lap when the sun never sets. A good time to experience the beautiful Finnish wilderness, with a surreal atmosphere.
Location: Finnish Lapland
Best Time: End of May to the middle of July
Nearby Attractions: Pyhä-Luosto National Park, Inari Lake, Ylläs Ski Resort
Summing up
Finland is a country of natural beauty, a long history, and its unique culture, and thus, always teems with something to do or somewhere to go. Finland shopping center is another attraction where you can buy souvenirs and gifts for your friends and yourself. From its rural landscapes and charming cities to its rich cultural history and lively nightlife, Finland meets everyone’s needs and desires.
Frequently Asked Questions about Places To Visit In Finland
1. What time can I view the Northern lights in Finland?
The best season for watching the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland occurs from September to March. The period where this light display of nature can be best observed is during the dark winter months.
2. What are the best destinations to visit in Helsinki?
Check out the magnificent design showcased at the Helsinki Cathedral. The Kamppi Chapel of Silence is another serene and worthy place to visit. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress speaks loads of history. Wander over to the Sibelius Monument for an interesting art piece. These places showcase the beauty and culture of Helsinki and are a must-visit.
3. When is the best time to visit Turku?
Anytime in the year is fine to visit Turku, though the best times are from May until September with good weather that doesn’t make you feel too worn down.
4. How do I get around Helsinki?
The city of Helsinki showcases a very organized public transport system with buses and trains; you can move throughout the city by bicycle or walking around. Tickets can be purchased from the mobile app or through kiosks around the city.
5. What should I know before visiting Finland?
Before visiting Finland, please go through the Finland visa requirements based on your nationality. Also, know the local customs and weather conditions to ensure a smooth trip.