Destinations in Finland
LAPLAND
The northern most part of Finland, Lapland, is the magical arctic region full of contrasts. In fact, contrasts are a key factor in the allure of Lapland where 24-hour sunlight in the summer replaces the dark winter days filled with Northern Lights.
Every season in Finnish Lapland is uniquely different from each other. The inhabitants of the region say that Lapland actually has 8 seasons instead of 4. In the wintertime, Lapland is as close as reality gets to those who dream of a winter wonderland. Spring brings along light that follows the long season of ‘kaamos’ (arctic night in Finnish). During the spring time, the snow covered hills and fells offer exciting experiences for all winter outdoors enthusiasts from skiiers to snowshoe walkers.
Summer in Lapland is a season like no other – there are endless white nights and peaceful arctic nature as far as the eye can see. Summer’s glow is followed by the majestic season of fall when Lapland gets its truly iconic ‘ruska’ colors. This is the best season to go for a hike in one of Lapland’s many national parks. It is meditation and mindfullness all wrapped in one in one of the world’s most unique and breath-taking sceneries. And don’t forget the best and purest air and water this planet has to offer.
After you have recharged in nature, Lapland also offers other interesting places to visit. Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, try one (or two!) of Lapland’s great restaurants, visit a reindeer or a husky farm, venture out to a quirky festival or go look for gold.
Finnish Lapland is all this and more.
LAKELAND
Finland has over 188,000 lakes and around 180,000 islands, many located in the Lakeland district, the largest in Europe. Finnish Lakeland is a blue labyrinth of lakes, islands, rivers and canals, interspersed with forests and ridges, stretching for hundreds of kilometres in a placid and staggeringly beautiful expanse.
There is no scenery more Finnish than a summer cottage by the lake surrounded by emerald green forest. In fact, over 90% of Finland is covered in either forest or water. But it’s about much more than just an iconic view. Nature is a huge part our identity, and a significant source of wellbeing for millions of Finns. It is also something we treasure: Finland has the cleanest water in the world.
The best way to experience Lakeland and to slow down is to try the iconic Finnish triad of cottage, sauna and water. Swim, hop on a steam boat, try a SUP board and simply admire the view. Relaxation is guaranteed.
HELSINKI REGION
Helsinki, the sustainable capital of Finland, is a vibrant seaside city of beautiful islands and great green urban areas. Helsinki marches to a wonderful and unique beat of its own with dynamic food, design, architecture – and sauna! – scenes. Helsinki and its Nordic culture are made by the locals.
Helsinki is the largest city in Finland and the metropolitan area is the home of 1.4 million people. When you look at a map, Helsinki is in the northernmost corner of the Europe but it is an easy hub to reach with fast flight connections from East to West. No flight? No problem. Helsinki can be reached from St. Petersburg, Estonia and Sweden via the Baltic Sea. In fact, the sea is one of the most characterizing elements of the city. The Helsinki Archipelago consists of over 300 mesmerizing islands.
The rhythm of Helsinki is laid-back and the city is easily approachable, literally. The public transportation system is one of the best in the world – with that one beautiful metro line – and it is also easy to walk and bike everywhere.
In addition to Helsinki, the capital region is made of a hub of other interesting cities and sights to visit. These include the neighboring cities of Espoo and Vantaa, the historical town of Porvoo, Järvenpää-Tuusula area – famous for its artistic heritage – as well as the ironwork villages west of Helsinki. There are 6 national parks less than 2 hours away from Helsinki and countless other nature sites to visit.
Venture out to the forest, enjoy a concert, flow to a festival, enjoy a Nordic dinner or try one of those iconic public saunas – it’s all here.
COAST AND ARCHIPELAGO
Finland’s coast boasts the world’s largest archipelago. Old wooden towns, lighthouses, historical manors and stone churches, large national parks stretching over land and sea – this sums up coastal Finland in a nutshell.
The laid-back islander lifestyle and a strong maritime culture are key characteristics of this fascinating area. Finland’s capital, Helsinki, has also held onto its maritime charm. Beaches, handicraft markets, small town events, cafés and village shops – Finnish coastal towns are especially lively in the summer months. Finland has seven Unesco World Heritage sites, of which three can be experienced in the coastal area.
