Finland is a nature-rich North-European country that is located between Sweden and Norway in the West and Russia in the East. This country not only holds stunning natural beauty but also rich art and historic architecture. Finland has a unique geographical setting with 188,000 lakes and 179,000 islands which makes it a peaceful and serene getaway in Europe. This Nordic country is also considered to be among the safest countries in the world for traveling. Finland has numerous ski resorts, ports, national parks, snow playgrounds, unique summer and winter activities, museums, and of course, a rich history. While a lot of people won’t miss the largest and capital city of Finland, Helsinki, it is notable that there are numerous smaller cities filled with natural wonders that you cannot miss in this country. Check out our list of best places to visit in Finland.
1. Lapland
Lapland is located in the northernmost point of Finland and is home to the very popular Santa Claus Village. Lapland is a winter dreamland that offers a real treat to eyes of tourists. It is one of the most beautiful Finnish destinations that is known for the very famous northern lights. Another breathtaking natural phenomenon to witness in this sub-arctic region is the midnight sun. Explore the Baltic Sea, enjoy the stunning beauty of the numerous ski resorts, try fun dog and reindeer sled rides, Game of Thrones-themed ice hotel and many other attractions in Lapland. Enjoy interacting with the indigenous Sami people and the local foods served in the restaurants of this amazing city.
2. Helsinki (from USD 59.61)
The capital city and a historic place in Finland, Helsinki offers more than just lush gardens and beautiful lake views to its visitors. The city is one of the most frequented places in Finland and is indeed a very lively place. You can go on a ferry ride to Helsinki Market Square to have a taste of both Finnish food and culture. When speaking of Finland, Helsinki is a default go-to spot that has a lot of resemblance to early 19th-century Russian architecture. The notable attractions in this city are the Lutheran Cathedral, Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, Parliament House, National Museum of Finland, Temppeliaukio Church, and many other museums and galleries.
Helsinki: Private Tour with a Local Guide
Duration: 2.0 to 6.0 hour
3. Turku
Turku is another popular tourist destination is Finland and it was the country’s former capital city. Turku was the seat of the Finnish government for a long time until the late 19th century, after which Helsinki took over its place. Hence, this city on Finland’s southern shore is filled with numerous historic sights that you cannot miss. The city is famous for Turku Castle that was built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. There are also sights like the old town market square, church, and Swedish theater that speak of the country’s rich history even today. Another important must-see spot in this beautiful city are the riverside restaurants. These restaurants are a treat to all the senses. It is notable that in the early 19th century, a huge fire broke out in this city and yet a number of historic architectural sites have survived despite the calamity. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time and witness the rich history and immortal architectural glory of Turku.
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4. Porvoo (from USD 68.4)
Porvoo is the second oldest town in the country loaded with rich history that is more than 600 years old. The first eye-catching sight you will witness in this beautiful city is its stunning wooden homes located amidst its breathtaking natural beauty. Did you know? Porvoo Cathedral was first built in the 11th century. You will also be able to witness numerous architectural delights in Old Porvoo’s streets that have buildings from as early as the 13th century. This city is not only popular for its rich heritage and art but also its delectable candies and pastries which are a must-try in Porvoo. Go on a guided tour in this stunning city to understand how it was once a major attraction for artists and poets.
Porvoo: 5-Hour Town Tour from Helsinki
Duration: 5 hour
Finland Tour Guide
Ann Travel Finland (Anna Siukola)
Hi, my name is Ann, and I offer author’s Helsinki and Southern Finland tours in English to individual travelers, families, friend groups, and large groups. My style is educative and entertaining, so you will have a lot of facts presented in an easy, fun, and friendly manner. I am knowledgeable in various fields, but my tours are not boring history lessons. Instead, we will have a lively narrati... Read more
5. Suomenlinna
The Fortress of Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a popular destination among locals and visitors. Learn about the country’s brave military history at Suomenlinna Fortress Museum. This fort is located at an easy commuting distance from Finland’s capital, Helsinki, and there are frequent ferry rides that will take you back and forth to Suomenlinna. This World Heritage Site was built by the Swedish people in the year 1847 with fabulous tunnels, museums, and trails around the incredible sea fortress. Other attractions in Suomenlinna are the 250-ton (227 metric tons) Vesikko submarine, Ehrensvärd Museum, Doll and Toy Museum, and Suomenlinna Summer Theater. The city is also popular for its glassblowing, handicraft and pottery shops, as well as evening entertainment during summers.
Tip from tour guide
One of the best places to visit in Suomenlinna is the Suomenlinna Toy Museum inside the Exhibition Centre WeeGee. Here, you can view a great collection of vintage toys! Research enthusiasts, meanwhile, can head to Ehrensvärd Museum to explore mindblowing artworks, decor, and vintage items.
6. Hameenlinna
Like every other Finnish destination, Hameenlinna is also an amazing historic town that houses the Tavastehus Castle built in the 13th century. Hameenlinna is known for its unique red-brick architecture as well as its scenic reserve forest cover. Aulangonvuori Hill, with its stunning forest and lake views, Aulanko Nature Reserve, which is part garden and part forest reserve, and Joutsenlampi Lake and its scenic trails are indeed a treat to your eyes. You can also check out the historic museums and ruins of the fabulous town, especially Sibelius Museum and Hämeenlinna Historical Museum.
7. Kemi
Kemi is another beautiful city in Finland’s Lapland region which is popular for its fabulous Snow Castle. This snow castle is built every year in this beautiful ice-capped Arctic city. A number of events and live performances are organized in this castle where you can also avail an overnight stay at the snow hotel. Kemi is also popular for its pulp mills, lively nightlife, and arctic icebreaker cruise. Satisfy your love for snow at these amazing destinations in Kemi.
8. Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is another notable destination in Finnish Lapland. The best of Finland’s beauty can be experienced in the snow-covered cities of its northern end near the Arctic Circle. While winter is seen as a time to stay indoors in most parts of the world, Finnish people have woven a lot of creativity into its long winter-struck cities and this attracts a lot of tourism. One such breathtaking attraction is Rovaniemi which is home to Jätkänkynttilä Bridge, Pilke Science Center, Arktikum Science Museum, Korundi House of Culture, and many other sights. Jätkänkynttilä Bridge is popularly dubbed as “the gateway to the Arctic”. One of the must-try experiences in this town is the dog/reindeer sled safari.
9. Aland Archipelago
Aland Archipelago is made up of a bunch of beautiful islands on the Baltic Sea that is accessible through ferry shuttles. As you enjoy the breezy ferry rides on the sea check out these major attractions on the islands: Kastelholm Castle, Aland Maritime Museum, and of course, the city’s numerous resorts and hotels. The must-try local delicacy here is a dessert pancake with whipped cream and plum stew topping. Did you know? Aland Archipelgo is a collection of more than 6,500 islands and taking a ferry ride is similar to a bus ride in this water-locked place. Although this wondrous place is part of Finland, it is thickly populated by the Swedes. Check out this natural Finnish gem on your next trip.
10. Savonlinna (from USD 67.0)
Savonlinna,one of the islands in Lake Saimma, is a major sightseeing destination that is popular for for its ballet and opera festivals. The city is a gem in the Finnish Lakeland with a number of underground caves, galleries, open-air theaters, museums, and the very popular 15th-century Olavinlinna St. Olaf’s Castle. Savonlinna is also home to the world’s biggest wooden church, Kerimaki Church. There are also the Orthodox Museum, Provincial Museum, and Savonlinna Market Square that have stood the test of time. Another major attraction of this city is the fresh, local food oozing with delicious flavors. If you are looking for a historic tour in Finland, then this five-hour sightseeing tour in Savonlinna awaits you.
Savonlinna Custom Sightseeing Tour
Finland, a country that will quench your wanderlust
Finland is a country of castles, rich culture, art, and history that is worth exploring. It is also a place of wonderful and incredible natural beauty that ensures a once-in-a-lifetime experience to its visitors. This beautiful country and its scenic snow towns, islands, and lakes is a must-go destination in every wanderer’s bucket list. Do check out these amazing cities for a memorable trip to Finland.
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