Think Finland is just Santa Claus and snow? Let me tell you, there’s something wild about a country where summer days never end and winter nights light up with aurora. I’ve watched the midnight sun turn lakes to gold and sat in steamy saunas while snowflakes dance outside – this place is full of magic!
From glass igloos under starlit skies to sun-soaked islands where you can kayak until 11pm, these are the most beautiful places to visit in Finland that show off its year-round magic. Ready to discover my 12 favorite spots that make this Nordic wonderland so special?
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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Finland
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Finnish adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last year, I flew to Helsinki for just $350 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by buying meals or ingredients from supermarkets like K-Market, S-Market, and Lidl. The lunch buffets (lounaspöytä) at local restaurants are also great value – for around €10-12 you get a full hot meal with salad, bread, and drinks. At supermarkets, you’ll find ready-to-eat meals, sandwiches, and salads for under €8.
- Transport: I recommend getting a multi-day HSL card in Helsinki. It covers all public transport including the ferry to Suomenlinna. For intercity travel, book VR trains in advance using their mobile app. I’ve found savings of up to 60% this way compared to last-minute tickets.
Finland may have a reputation for being one of Europe’s most expensive countries. With these money-saving strategies, you can explore this Nordic gem without emptying your wallet. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Finland:
1. Lapland
- 📍 Location: Northernmost region of Finland
- 🏆 Best For: Winter magic ❄️, Northern Lights chasers 🌌, cultural explorers 🧤
- 📸 Top Experiences: Staying in a glass igloo, meeting reindeer herders, watching the aurora borealis
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for snowy adventures and aurora sightings 🌨️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos – Unique stay offering clear-roofed rooms for aurora views
Lapland feels like another world entirely. Located above the Arctic Circle, this region transforms into a snow-covered dreamland each winter. Northern Lights dance across the sky, reindeer wander through the forest, and the silence of nature hits differently in the deep cold. It’s peaceful, powerful, and completely unforgettable.
Culture runs deep here too. The indigenous Sámi people have lived in harmony with this landscape for centuries. Visiting their villages or joining a reindeer sleigh ride adds depth to the experience. You’ll gain a better appreciation for traditions shaped by long winters and endless light in summer.
Adventure lovers are also in the right place. Try husky sledding, snowshoeing, or even ice fishing on a frozen lake. Then warm up in a sauna before falling asleep under the stars in a glass igloo. Lapland is a destination that stays with you long after you leave.
2. Helsinki
- 📍 Location: Southern coast of Finland
- 🏆 Best For: City explorers 🏙️, architecture fans 🏛️, design lovers 🪑
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Helsinki Cathedral, relaxing at Löyly Sauna, visiting the Design District
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for mild weather and coastal walks 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel F6 – Chic boutique hotel near Market Square with Scandinavian design
Helsinki is a capital that knows how to keep things stylish and simple. It’s clean, walkable, and full of unexpected charm. One moment you’re standing in front of a massive neoclassical cathedral, and the next you’re in a waterfront café sipping coffee beside locals who actually enjoy quiet moments.
The Design District is where Helsinki truly shines. Shops, studios, and galleries showcase the city’s creativity, with everything from furniture to fashion reflecting that classic Finnish minimalism. Even the public spaces feel curated with thought and balance.
Beyond the art and architecture, Helsinki offers nature in the form of coastal trails, urban islands, and easy ferries to nearby escapes like Suomenlinna. Whether you’re hopping between museums or relaxing in a sauna with a sea view, the city gives off a peaceful energy that’s refreshing in a capital.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Cities in Europe
- For a longer island escape: Best Things to Do in the Åland Islands
3. Turku
- 📍 Location: Southwest coast of Finland
- 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏰, island hoppers 🚤, relaxed city breaks ☕
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Turku Castle, exploring the Turku Archipelago, strolling along the Aura River
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for warm weather and ferry access 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Kakola – Stylish hotel in a former prison overlooking the city and river
Turku is the kind of city that quietly surprises you. Known as Finland’s oldest city, it balances medieval charm with modern creativity. The Aura River runs through the heart of town, with cafés, galleries, and walking paths stretching along both banks.
Turku Castle is a standout, offering a deep dive into Finnish history through centuries-old stone halls and exhibitions. Right outside the city, the Turku Archipelago unfolds into a web of over 20,000 islands. Whether you’re cycling, sailing, or relaxing by the water, the pace slows in all the right ways.
Local markets add color and flavor, especially in the summer when fresh berries and Finnish pastries are everywhere. With its mix of old and new, Turku is a great stop for travelers who want history, nature, and culture without big-city chaos.
- Another stunning Finnish archipelago to explore: Best Things to Do in the Åland Islands
4. Rovaniemi
- 📍 Location: Southern Lapland, near the Arctic Circle
- 🏆 Best For: Holiday magic 🎅, Arctic adventures ❄️, family travel 👨👩👧👦
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Santa Claus Village, watching the Northern Lights, river cruising on the Kemijoki
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for snowy landscapes and festive experiences 🎄
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Arctic Light Hotel – Cozy design hotel with Northern Lights vibes and hearty breakfasts
Rovaniemi feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe. Located right on the Arctic Circle, it’s known worldwide as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Snowy rooftops, twinkling lights, and reindeer on quiet roads make the city feel magical, especially in winter when it’s blanketed in white.
Santa Claus Village is the highlight for families. You can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle line, and send postcards with a special North Pole stamp. The magic doesn’t stop with Christmas attractions though. Rovaniemi also offers aurora viewing spots, wildlife parks, and frozen forest trails.
When summer rolls around, the vibe changes completely. The midnight sun casts a golden glow over the city, keeping rivers and lakes bright almost all night. Whether you’re visiting for snow sports or summer hikes, Rovaniemi makes the Arctic feel welcoming and unforgettable.
5. Savonlinna
- 📍 Location: Saimaa Lake District, Eastern Finland
- 🏆 Best For: Castle lovers 🏯, lake escapes 🚤, opera fans 🎼
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Olavinlinna Castle, cruising Lake Saimaa, attending the Savonlinna Opera Festival
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to August for festival season and lake cruises 🎶
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Spahotel Casino – Lakefront hotel with relaxing views and sauna access
Savonlinna brings medieval history into the middle of Finland’s largest lake system. The town is small and peaceful, surrounded by forests and sparkling blue water. It’s the kind of place where you wake up to misty lake views and go to sleep after a sunset boat ride.
Olavinlinna Castle is the star of the show. Built in the 15th century, it sits proudly on an island and hosts the world-renowned Savonlinna Opera Festival each summer. Whether you’re into music or not, attending a performance in this dramatic setting is something special.
Beyond the castle, Savonlinna is a perfect base for exploring the Saimaa region. Local cruises take you across narrow waterways and past remote islands. With fresh lake fish in the markets and calm trails nearby, this town offers a gentle mix of culture and nature.
6. Porvoo
- 📍 Location: Southern Finland, east of Helsinki
- 🏆 Best For: Romantic getaways 💕, history lovers 🏡, art and culture fans 🎨
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking along the red shore houses, visiting Porvoo Cathedral, exploring local art galleries
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for river cruises and sunny strolls 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Pariisin Ville – Intimate boutique stay in Old Porvoo with vintage charm
Porvoo feels like it was made for slow days and scenic walks. Cobblestone streets lead through one of Finland’s oldest towns, where pastel wooden houses and art-filled windows line narrow alleys. The red shore houses by the river are the town’s most iconic sight, especially when lit by the soft glow of evening light.
While small, Porvoo offers more than pretty views. Its cathedral dates back to the 13th century, and the museums and galleries scattered around the old town highlight Finnish design and local creativity. Handmade chocolates, antique shops, and cozy cafés keep the experience warm and welcoming.
Outdoor lovers can follow trails along the river or rent a kayak for a peaceful float. Instead of rushing between sights, Porvoo invites you to slow down, notice the details, and enjoy a slice of small-town Finland at its most picturesque.
7. Åland Islands
- 📍 Location: Between mainland Finland and Sweden
- 🏆 Best For: Island hopping 🛶, cycling trips 🚴♀️, slow travel seekers 🌿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the Åland Maritime Museum, relaxing in Mariehamn, kayaking through quiet bays
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for warm weather and long daylight hours ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Pommern – Modern stay in Mariehamn with easy access to shops and the harbor
The Åland Islands deliver a different kind of Finnish experience, one shaped by salt air, open landscapes, and a strong seafaring legacy. This autonomous region leans into its Swedish roots, giving it a cultural flavor that stands apart from the mainland.
Island life here revolves around simplicity. In Mariehamn, quiet streets lead to maritime museums and docks where sailboats bob gently in the harbor. Further out, art studios and roadside farm stands add surprise to every ride, especially along the popular cycling routes between villages and coastlines.
Traveling through the islands feels organic. You won’t find towering landmarks or crowded tourist spots, but instead, a rhythm shaped by wind, water, and open space. It’s ideal for travelers who want less noise and more depth, where even a ferry ride becomes part of the story.
- Ready to explore? Here’s my complete guide: Best Things to Do in the Åland Islands
8. Tampere
- 📍 Location: Between Lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, Southern Finland
- 🏆 Best For: Urban nature lovers 🌲, museum goers 🖼️, cultural weekends 🎭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Pyynikki Observation Tower, visiting Vapriikki Museum, strolling through the Finlayson area
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for lake views and outdoor cafés ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Lapland Hotels Arena – Stylish hotel with rooftop views and Nordic-inspired interiors
Tampere blends city buzz with lakeside calm in a way that feels both modern and grounded. Built between two expansive lakes, the city has incredible water views from nearly every angle. A short walk from downtown puts you in forest parks, sauna houses, or by the water with a local coffee in hand.
The Finlayson area, once an industrial zone, now houses shops, restaurants, and museums that tell the story of Tampere’s creative shift. Vapriikki Museum Center adds variety with exhibits on everything from Finnish hockey to natural history, all under one roof.
For a classic local experience, head to the Pyynikki Observation Tower. The view is incredible, and the doughnuts from the café downstairs are legendary. Tampere feels more relaxed than Helsinki but still full of energy, especially in summer when the lakes sparkle and the festivals bring the city to life.
9. Kuopio
- 📍 Location: Finnish Lakeland, Eastern Finland
- 🏆 Best For: Lake lovers 🚤, foodies 🐟, panoramic view seekers 🌄
- 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Puijo Tower, eating kalakukko at Kuopion tori, relaxing in a lakeside sauna
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for festivals and lake adventures 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Scandic Kuopio – Comfortable lakeside hotel with easy access to nature and downtown
Kuopio is a city shaped by water, surrounded by lakes that stretch toward the horizon. Life here leans into the landscape, with locals fishing, swimming, and enjoying sauna sessions along the shore. Even in the city center, the lake feels close, and nature blends into everyday routines.
Puijo Tower offers one of Finland’s most iconic views. From the top, you’ll see green forests and blue water stretching in every direction. Down below, the market square is full of regional flavor, literally. Local dishes like kalakukko, a baked fish pie, give a taste of the region’s roots.
Time slows down in Kuopio. Boat cruises, floating saunas, and peaceful hikes keep the days full without ever feeling busy. It’s a great pick for travelers looking to balance cultural experiences with the calming effect of nature.
10. Oulu
- 📍 Location: Northern Finland, on the Gulf of Bothnia
- 🏆 Best For: Tech lovers 💻, coastal city breaks 🌊, local market vibes 🍓
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Oulu Market Hall, relaxing at Nallikari Beach, walking through Hupisaaret Park
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for beach days and cultural events 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Lapland Hotels Oulu – Contemporary hotel near parks and downtown with Arctic-inspired design
Oulu brings together a curious mix of innovation and laid-back coastal life. It’s a tech hub with a creative pulse, yet the city still feels approachable and rooted in nature. The riverfront is dotted with walking trails, bridges, and leafy parks that are perfect for slow exploring.
The Oulu Market Square is where locals gather for coffee, produce, and people-watching. Nearby, the red-brick Market Hall serves up traditional treats in a cozy setting. A short ride away, Nallikari Beach offers soft sand and shallow waters that are surprisingly warm in midsummer.
Despite its modern energy, Oulu doesn’t try to be flashy. It’s a place to discover at your own pace, whether you’re exploring the museums, enjoying live music downtown, or just biking along the coast with a sea breeze in your face. The mix of nature and innovation gives it a unique rhythm.
11. Vaasa
- 📍 Location: Western Finland, Gulf of Bothnia
- 🏆 Best For: Coastal views 🌅, cultural history buffs 🏛️, nature getaways 🐦
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Kvarken Archipelago, visiting Old Vaasa ruins, browsing Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to August for hiking trails and island access 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Astor – Classic hotel near the city center with charming rooms and hearty breakfast
Vaasa blends coastal scenery with cultural richness in a way that’s both relaxed and engaging. The city feels bright and open, with sea breezes, Swedish-Finnish heritage, and plenty of green spaces that keep the pace easygoing. It’s the kind of destination that feels welcoming right away.
One of the region’s highlights is the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by the Ice Age. Wooden bridges, birdwatching spots, and glacier-carved terrain make it a dream for outdoor explorers. Back in town, the Kuntsi Museum and local cafés add a dose of creative energy.
Old Vaasa offers another layer of interest, with quiet ruins and stories from the city’s early days. It’s easy to switch from nature to culture in a single afternoon. With its bilingual roots and strong connection to the sea, Vaasa leaves a lasting impression.
12. Kemi
- 📍 Location: Finnish Lapland, on the Gulf of Bothnia
- 🏆 Best For: Arctic experiences ❄️, snow and ice lovers 🧊, bucket-list travelers ✨
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the SnowCastle, cruising on the Sampo Icebreaker, visiting the Gemstone Gallery
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for snow attractions and frozen adventures 🌨️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Seaside Glass Villas – Cozy waterfront cabins with panoramic views and winter sky watching
Kemi feels like stepping into a winter fantasy. This small city in Lapland is known for its snow sculptures, icy landscapes, and creative takes on cold-weather travel. The vibe is playful and surreal, especially when the SnowCastle rises each year with new designs carved entirely from snow and ice.
Another must-do is boarding the Sampo Icebreaker. This massive ship plows through frozen seas while visitors tour the engine room, walk on the ice, or float in insulated suits in the icy water. It’s unlike anything you’ll find in southern Finland.
The rest of Kemi moves at a quiet, peaceful pace. You can visit the Gemstone Gallery, enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor, or just bundle up and watch the northern sky shift into shades of green and purple. Kemi may be small, but its atmosphere and experiences feel larger than life.
