Finland
Finland, located in Northern Europe, is known for its stunning natural landscapes that include thousands of lakes, extensive forests, and the Northern Lights visible in its Lapland region. It boasts a high quality of life, robust education system, and a strong sense of community and social welfare, often ranking high in global happiness and development indexes.
Finnish culture is rich with traditions, famous for its design and architecture, and celebrated for its contribution to music, literature, and cuisine, including the iconic sauna experience.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Moi" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Hyvää päivää" - Good day
- "Anteeksi" - Excuse me
- "Kyllä" - Yes
- "Ei" - No
- "Ole hyvä" - You're welcome
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Helsinki
morning:Start your day with a visit to the historic Suomenlinna Fortress, followed by a delightful breakfast at Cafe Regatta by the sea.
afternoon:Discover the gorgeous architecture of Helsinki at the Senate Square, and then enjoy a traditional Finnish lunch at Savotta restaurant. Make a stop at the Kiasma museum for some contemporary art.
evening:For an unforgettable evening, head to the lively Kallio district for dinner at Putte's Bar & Pizza and then explore the vibrant nightlife at the Tenho Restobar.
Nature & Culture in Tampere
morning:Kick off the day with a leisurely stroll around the serene Pyynikki Park, and treat yourself to a delicious doughnut at the Pyynikki Observation Tower Cafe.
afternoon:Immerse yourself in Finnish culture at the Moomin Museum and Tampere Art Museum, followed by a delightful lunch at Plevna Brewery.
evening:In the evening, savor a memorable dinner at Näsinneula revolving restaurant overlooking the city, then experience the vibrant nightlife at Klubi.
Lakes and Spa in Kuopio
morning:Begin your day with a serene boat ride on Lake Kallavesi, then enjoy a scrumptious brunch at Ravintola Sampo by the water.
afternoon:Relax and rejuvenate at the luxurious Rauhalahti Spa, followed by a visit to the fascinating Puijo Tower for panoramic views of the area and a traditional Karelian pie.
evening:Round off the day with a delectable dinner at Tuba Food & Lounge and then check out the live music scene at Henry's Pub.
Arctic Adventures in Rovaniemi
morning:Embark on an exciting husky safari adventure in the Arctic wilderness, and warm up with a delightful breakfast at Arctic Light Hotel.
afternoon:Visit the enchanting Santa Claus Village and meet Santa himself, then indulge in a hearty Lappish meal at Nili Restaurant.
evening:Dive into the magical Lappish atmosphere with a dinner at Restaurant Roka, and later experience the northern lights and indigenous culture at Arktikum museum.
Finland's Famous Food
Delicacies in Finland you must try!
Salmiakki
A salty licorice candy that is popular in Finland. Available in most supermarkets and candy stores.
Must-Try!
Kalakukko
A traditional Finnish fish and pork pie. Best found in local bakeries and markets, especially in the Savonia region.
Karjalanpiirakka
Karelian pasty filled with rice pudding or mashed potatoes. Widely available in bakeries and markets across the country.
Attractions in Finland
Nice places to capture memories
Santa Claus Village
Located near Rovaniemi in Lapland, offers stunning views of the arctic landscape and the chance to meet Santa Claus.
Helsinki Cathedral
Provides a beautiful vantage point of the city of Helsinki and its surrounding areas.
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
Offers panoramic views of the city of Helsinki from its observation tower.
Kaivopuisto Park
Boasts scenic views of the Gulf of Finland and is an ideal spot for capturing the sunset.
Seasonal Advice
Best times to visit and what to expect in different seasons
Spring (March - May)
Milder temperatures, snow melting, longer days, and the opportunity to witness the spectacular natural phenomena of the Northern Lights.
Summer (June - August)
Warmer weather, longer days with the midnight sun in the northern part, various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and visiting the countless lakes.
Autumn (September - November)
Vibrant fall colors, cooler temperatures, and the chance to see the Northern Lights again as the nights grow longer.
Winter (December - February)
Cold temperatures, the possibility to engage in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, and the stunning beauty of snowy landscapes and frozen lakes.
Outdoor Activities in Finland
Fun outdoor pursuits
Hiking in national parks
Enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of Finland by hiking in one of its many national parks, such as Lemmenjoki or Urho Kekkonen.
Swimming in the Finnish lakes
Experience the refreshing Finnish lakes by swimming in the pristine waters, especially during the summer months.
Canoeing or kayaking
Explore Finland's waterways and coastline by indulging in canoeing or kayaking, offering a unique perspective of the country's natural beauty.
Cross-country skiing
During the winter, embrace the snowy landscapes of Finland by engaging in the popular activity of cross-country skiing.
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Finland, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Tipping is included in the service charges or the prices of goods and services.
Payment
Finland is largely a cashless society, and electronic payments are widely accepted. Debit and credit cards are commonly used for transactions, and mobile payment methods are also popular. Cash is accepted but not always necessary, especially in urban areas.
Local Etiquette
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Personal Space
In Finland, personal space is highly valued, so it's important to respect others' physical boundaries and avoid standing too close or touching people without permission.
Punctuality
Finns place a great deal of importance on punctuality, so it's essential to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Silence is Golden
Silence is considered a sign of thoughtfulness and respect in Finnish culture, so it's acceptable to enjoy quiet moments in conversations without feeling the need to fill the space with unnecessary chatter.
Things to do in Finland
Unique local experiences...
Safety
Safety in this Nordic country is characterized by low crime rates, high public trust in law enforcement, and a strong social welfare system. Violent crime is relatively rare, and petty crime such as pickpocketing is infrequent, allowing residents and visitors alike to feel secure in their daily activities. The police force is generally seen as approachable and effective, contributing to the overall sense of security in communities. Moreover, the country boasts a comprehensive social safety net that supports citizens' well-being, further reducing social tensions and contributing to a peaceful atmosphere. Emergency services are efficient and accessible, ensuring that residents can quickly receive assistance when needed. Additionally, the country’s infrastructure is well-maintained, which also plays a role in public safety. Natural disasters are minimal, but the Finnish government is well-prepared for various emergencies, including severe weather conditions, thanks to its robust emergency management systems. Overall, the combination of low crime, effective law enforcement, strong community welfare systems, and preparedness for emergencies contributes to an environment where safety is a fundamental aspect of everyday life.
Nightlife in Finland
Nightlife in Finland presents a diverse and vibrant experience, blending modern and traditional elements to create memorable evenings. In the bustling cities of Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku, you'll discover an array of bars, nightclubs, and pubs that cater to various tastes and preferences. The atmosphere ranges from laid-back lounges ideal for relaxed conversation to energetic dance floors pumping with the latest beats. Local music plays a significant role in Finnish nightlife, with many venues featuring live performances from both up-and-coming and well-established artists. Jazz bars, rock clubs, and electronic music venues are common, offering something for every music enthusiast. Seasonal variations also influence the Finnish nightlife. During the midsummer period, the celebration of "Juhannus" involves all-night festivities, bonfires, and outdoor gatherings under the endless daylight. In contrast, the darker winter months transform nightlife into a cozy retreat with warm, inviting atmospheres and even the chance to experience a traditional Finnish sauna followed by a plunge into icy waters for the bravest souls. Karaoke is a beloved pastime, and you’ll find many bars dedicated to it, where locals and visitors alike can showcase their singing talents. Additionally, Finland's rich brewing tradition means that craft beer lovers can explore numerous microbreweries and sample unique local brews. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a quiet drink with friends, or immerse yourself in Finnish culture through music and social gatherings, the nightlife in Finland offers a wide range of experiences to enjoy.
Costs of Living
The cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city and region, but here is a general overview of prices for various categories in the country: Housing: - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €800 - €1,300 per month. - Rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €600 - €900 per month. - Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): €150 - €250 per month. Food: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €12 - €20. - Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €60 - €90. - Groceries (monthly for one person): €200 - €350. - A liter of milk: €1 - €1.50. - A loaf of bread: €1.50 - €3. - A dozen eggs: €3 - €4. Transportation: - Monthly public transport pass: €50 - €70. - Single ticket for public transport: €2.50 - €4. - Gasoline (1 liter): €1.60 - €2. Health and Fitness: - Gym membership: €30 - €60 per month. - Doctor's visit (private): €50 - €100. Childcare: - Preschool/kindergarten (monthly fee): €200 - €400. - International school fees: €5,000 - €25,000 annually. Miscellaneous: - Internet (monthly): €30 - €60. - Basic mobile phone plan: €10 - €30 per month. While these figures provide a general sense of the cost of living, actual expenses can be higher or lower depending on personal lifestyle choices and location within the country.
Pet sitters in Finland
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!