Things To Do
in Finland
Finland is a Nordic nation renowned for its pristine lakes, vast forests, and snowy winters. Its cities blend cutting-edge design with maritime heritage, especially in Helsinki. In the north, Lapland offers Arctic landscapes, reindeer culture, and magical aurora light displays.
Finns value nature, saunas, and a high quality of life in a safe, organized society.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Land in Helsinki and get settled at your hotel. After refreshing, start your journey with a visit to the iconic Sibelius Monument, a tribute to Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful parks surrounding the monument, offering picturesque views of the city.
Head to the historic Market Square for lunch, where you can sample local delicacies such as salmon soup and reindeer meat. Explore the nearby Uspenski Cathedral, a stunning red-brick Eastern Orthodox cathedral overlooking the harbor. Continue your afternoon by visiting the Ateneum Art Museum, home to Finland’s largest collection of classical art.
Dine at a cozy Finnish restaurant in the trendy Kallio district, where you can experience modern interpretations of traditional Finnish cuisine. After dinner, find your way to a local jazz club for a night of live music and vibrant ambiance. Stroll through the streets of Helsinki, enjoying the blend of history and modernity as you wind down.
Visit the fascinating National Museum of Finland to learn about the country’s history from prehistoric to modern times. Engage with the interactive exhibits and enjoy the stunning architecture of the museum. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby Temppeliaukio Church, famously carved into solid rock.
Have lunch at a charming café in the Design District, followed by a tour of the area’s boutique shops showcasing Finnish design. Visit the Museum of Finnish Architecture to get an insight into the innovative designs that have shaped the country. Spend time at the local parks like Esplanadi, where you can unwind and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the waterfront for a dinner cruise around the islands of Helsinki. Admire the stunning skyline while enjoying a buffet filled with fresh seafood and local produce. End your night at a popular rooftop bar, sipping cocktails under the stars as you overlook the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚌One-way public transportation | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning nature and clean, safe environment
- High standard of living and strong design culture
- Extensive outdoor activities year-round
- Efficient public transport and easy travel between cities
- High cost of living in major cities
- Long, dark winters in the north
- Language barriers outside tourist hubs
- Remote areas can be isolated and weather-dependent
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Ole hyvä" - Please / Here you go
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Puhutteko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
- "Missä on ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Kuinka paljon tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Finland
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic white cathedral framed by steps and a lively city square; best at sunrise or blue hour.
UNESCO-listed sea fortress with fortifications, cannons, and waterfront views; easy ferry ride from Helsinki.
Rock-cut church with a copper dome and dramatic natural light from the skylight.
Futuristic architecture and photogenic interiors; popular for modern urban shots.
Dark skies and wide-open landscapes ideal for northern lights photography in winter.
Food in Finland
Finland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional rye crust filled with rice or potato, typically served with munavoi (egg butter). Common across cafes and markets.
Must-Try!
Creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill; a comforting staple found in many taverns and homes.
Tender sliced reindeer with onions and potatoes; a Finnish specialty, especially in Lapland.
A hearty rye crust pie filled with fish and pork; a regional delicacy often found in markets.
Cured salmon served thinly sliced, commonly enjoyed with dill and bread.
Rustic pie made with wild blueberries, often served with vanilla sauce.
Warm, squeaky cheese served with cloudberry jam for a traditional treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Harbor-side market offering fresh fish, berries, pastries, and regional treats.
Historic indoor market with Finnish staples, fish, and produce; excellent for affordable bites.
Historic market area with local foods and snacks; a window into southwestern Finland.
Regional market hall offering local foods, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Finns value punctuality for appointments and trains; arrive on time.
Shower before entering; sit on a towel; many people alternate between sauna and a cold plunge or a roll in the snow if appropriate.
Be straightforward and polite; small talk is common but not required in all interactions.
Respect personal space and avoid loud conversations in public settings.
In private homes, modest gifts are appreciated but not obligatory; follow local hosts' cues in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Finland
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but many services include a service charge.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common; cash use is decreasing; some small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Days are long—especially in the north—with mild to warm temperatures and festivals. Pack sun protection and insect repellent for evenings outdoors.
Snowy scenes and long nights in the north; great for northern lights, but dress in layers and plan indoor activities for midday.
Mild days with melting snow and awakening wildlife; shoulder season with fewer crowds and evolving scenery.
Crisp air and foliage color; excellent for hiking and berry picking; days shorten and weather can be wet.
Finland at Night
Hiking in Finland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and lakes near Helsinki; perfect for day trips.
Fell landscapes and iconic scenery in Lapland.
Rivers, canyons, and dramatic viewpoints in northeastern Finland.
Forest trails and wetlands close to the capital region.
Airports
How to reach Finland by plane.
Main international gateway with quick rail access to Helsinki city center.
Southwestern hub with domestic routes and some international flights; good access to Turku and the archipelago.
Northern gateway with domestic routes and seasonal international connections.
Gateway to Lapland with frequent connections from Helsinki and other hubs; convenient for Arctic adventures.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group, concentrated in urban areas.
A significant Swedish-speaking community with historical roots.
Indigenous group in the north with distinct language and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant winter sport with strong leagues and fan culture.
Widely enjoyed on well-groomed Nordic trails across the country.
Resort-style skiing in Lapland and southern regions.
Popular guided tours across snow-covered landscapes.
A uniquely Finnish sport often played at local clubs.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Finnish menus can be meat- or fish-forward; look for mushroom and root-vegetable dishes, legumes, salads, and vegetable mains. Ask to modify dishes to be meat-free.
Rye bread is a staple; request gluten-free options or substitutions; many places can accommodate with salads, fish, or chicken dishes.
Dairy is common; ask to omit butter, milk, or cream and opt for fish, poultry, or vegetable dishes prepared without dairy.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Finland.