Top Places to Visit in Finland: Discover Cities, Lakes, and Forests 

Finland offers something special for every traveler. This northern country has a calm, unpretentious charm, from historical cities to quiet forests. 

A Guide to Finland’s Highlights, From South to North

Here are some of the most notable places to explore:

1. Helsinki – A year-round city of culture and design

Finland’s capital blends history, design, and culture. Key spots include the Helsinki Cathedral, the bustling Market Square, and Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spread across six islands.

Suomenlinna Fortress is accessible by a short ferry ride from the city center, the ferry is part of Helsinki’s public transport system.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Helsinki. The long, light-filled days make exploring the city’s parks, outdoor cafés, and festivals enjoyable.

Around Christmas, Helsinki transforms into a cozy winter destination with charming markets and twinkling lights.

2. Porvoo – A charming small town with wooden houses

This small town near Helsinki is known for its cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses.

The Old Town’s unique charm draws visitors year-round. Still, it feels especially magical in the winter under a blanket of snow. 

Porvoo is also home to many cozy cafés and restaurants that make exploring the town even more enjoyable.

Just a short trip from Helsinki, Porvoo is one of the highlights of many day trips from the capital. Discover more ideas for day trips from Helsinki here.

3. Tampere – The sauna capital by two lakes

Tampere is often called the sauna capital of Finland. Public saunas like Rauhanniemi on a lakeshore are great places to experience authentic Finnish sauna culture. The city sits between two large lakes, giving it a relaxed, natural feel. 

Don’t miss the Pyynikki Observation Tower, where you can view over the city to the lakes, and sample its famous freshly baked doughnuts.

Beyond saunas, Tampere is also famous for its lively restaurant scene. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Tampere here.

4. Turku – Historic charm by the Aura River

Finland’s oldest city and former capital, Turku, is a great summer destination. The Aura River is the heart of the city, with its lively riverboats and waterfront dining. Turku Castle, a medieval fortress, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history. 

Nearby Naantali, a charming village with wooden houses, is perfect for a summer day trip.

5. Rauma – A peaceful, living old town

Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Finland’s oldest towns, known for its beautifully preserved Old Town. The area is a maze of cobblestone streets lined with colorful wooden houses, charming courtyards, and unique boutiques. 

Unlike many historical districts, the Old Town isn’t a museum but a peaceful neighborhood where locals live and work.

For a truly memorable stay, consider booking a room in one of the Old Town’s cozy inns, guesthouses or rental apartments, housed in charming wooden buildings. Waking up in the heart of this tranquil community, surrounded by history and local life, offers a calming and authentic Finnish experience.

In summer, the nearby beaches and islands provide a perfect escape for nature lovers.

6. Archipelago – Stunning island views

Finland’s Archipelago Sea is one of the world’s largest. It’s best explored by car in the summer. 

The “Saariston Rengastie” (Archipelago Trail) is a circular route starting and ending in Turku. Because of ferry schedules, it is accessible only from May to September.

The trail may not be ideal for cycling as the roads are narrow and there is significant car traffic. 

Note that ferries also connect Turku to Stockholm and Åland, offering stunning views of the islands.

7. Lake Saimaa and the Finnish Lakeland – A paradise for nature lovers

Lake Saimaa is a paradise for nature lovers. The Punkaharju Ridge is a standout feature, a narrow strip of land separating two lakes in the Saimaa system. It’s considered an iconic Finnish national landscape.

Savonlinna, located on the shores of Saimaa, is home to the medieval Olavinlinna Castle and hosts an annual Opera Festival. 

Lappeenranta, on the other end of the lake, is also a starting point for scenic lake cruises on historical ships.

The region offers cultural and outdoor experiences, with boating, fishing, and berry picking among the favorite activities.

8. Koli National Park – Iconic Finnish landscape

Koli National Park is famous for its serene lake views and hiking trails. 

The iconic vistas have inspired Finnish artists and poets for centuries. It’s a peaceful spot for hiking or simply enjoying the outdoors.

9. Lapland – A magical winter escape

In the north, Lapland is best known for its snowy winters and the magical Northern Lights. Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a popular stop, especially in December and January, when snow is guaranteed, and the nights are at their longest.

The Northern Lights are visible from late August to April, with the clearest skies in midwinter. Lapland also offers unique experiences such as husky and snowmobile safaris and reindeer sleigh rides, making it a magical winter wonderland for all ages.

Visitors should prepare for the extreme cold by dressing in layers and using proper winter gear.

Getting to Lapland is easy from Helsinki, with direct flights or comfortable night trains. 

During the holiday season, Lapland experiences a surge in visitors, with direct flights from major European cities. Popular destinations like Rovaniemi and Levi fill up quickly, and accommodation prices are at their peak. Booking activities and lodging well in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

10. Outdoor Adventures in Lapland – Ski, hike, and enjoy the wild

Lapland is home to Finland’s best ski resorts, including Levi, Ylläs and Ruka. Levi and Ruka are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying lively after-ski parties. 

Kuusamo region offers hiking trails like the famous Karhunkierros Trail and adventures in Oulanka National Park.

With longer days and milder weather, March and April are ideal for skiing. 

For hikers, September is popular for its autumn colors, while summer offers the midnight sun. However, mosquitoes can be a challenge in mid-summer. 

In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy activities like rafting in the rapids and picking berries and mushrooms in the wilderness. 

11. National Parks – Finland’s tranquil nature trails

Finland has 41 national parks, each showcasing the country’s close relationship with nature. These parks offer hiking, biking, camping, and berry-picking opportunities, all supported by Finland’s “Everyman’s Right” law.

• Nuuksio National Park: Close to Helsinki, with easy access to forest trails and lakes. Nuuksio is family-friendly, with guided trails suitable for first-time visitors and designated fire pits where you can grill Finnish favorites like sausages.
• Oulanka National Park: Known for its stunning rapids and the Karhunkierros hiking trail.
• Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: Arctic fell landscapes in Lapland.
• Lemmenjoki National Park: Finland’s largest, featuring remote wilderness in northern Lapland.

Finns value forests deeply, seeing them as places for both relaxation and activity. Visiting a national park is not just about nature but experiencing a way of life.

Finland’s beauty is in its simplicity. Whether strolling through historical towns, hiking in a forest, or watching the Northern Lights, there’s something grounded and honest here. No flash, just Finland.