Finland Things To See

Finland boasts a variety of cities and regions that host a rich collection of attractions. Whether you are drawn to bustling urban centers or serene natural landscapes, these destinations will offer compelling experiences.

• Helsinki – The capital brimming with design and culture, Helsinki's top sites include:
  • Helsinki Cathedral
  • Fortress of Suomenlinna
  • Uspenski Cathedral
  • Design Museum
  • Market Square
• Turku – Known for its medieval charm, Turku features:
  • Turku Castle
  • Turku Cathedral
  • Archipelago Sea
  • Children's Museum
  • Ruins of Abo Castle
• Rovaniemi – The gateway to Lapland, Rovaniemi is famous for:
  • Santa Claus Village
  • Arktikum Museum
  • Rovaniemi Art Museum
  • Ounasvaara Hill
  • SantaPark
• Lapland – A region of stunning nature, notable sites include:
  • Kemi SnowCastle
  • Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
  • Levi Ski Resort
  • Saariselkä Resort
  • Skiing and winter trails
• Porvoo – A picturesque old town, Porvoo offers:
  • Old Porvoo streets
  • Porvoo Cathedral
  • Brassica Nature Trail
  • Porvoo Museum
  • Riverside cafes

Finland offers a diverse range of attractions, from its rich historical sites to stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture or explore the great outdoors, creating a memorable experience.

Finland's history is reflected in its castles and historic sites that tell the stories of its past.

• Helsinki Fortress - Helsinki
• Turku Castle - Turku
• Olavinlinna Castle - Savonlinna
• Raseborg Castle - Ekenäs
• Hämeenlinna Castle - Hämeenlinna

Cultural experiences abound in Finland, from art to music festivals celebrating local talent.

• Helsinki City Theatre - Helsinki
• Finnish National Gallery - Helsinki
• Alvar Aalto Museum - Jyväskylä
• Oulu Museum of Art - Oulu
• WeeGee Exhibition Centre - Espoo

Museums in Finland provide insights into local culture and history, making them a must-see.

• National Museum of Finland - Helsinki
• Science Centre Heureka - Vantaa
• Lapland Museum - Rovaniemi
• Vapriikki Museum - Tampere
• Tampere Museum of Contemporary Art - Tampere

The natural beauty of Finland is unmatched, featuring numerous parks and lakes.

• Nuuksio National Park - Espoo
• Repovesi National Park - Kouvola
• Oulanka National Park - Kuusamo
• Koli National Park - Lieksa
• Pyramidia - Lappeenranta

Family-friendly attractions create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.

• Visiting Santa Claus Village - Rovaniemi
• Fauna Park - Luosto
• Serena Water Park - Espoo
• Adventure Park - Rovaniemi
• Powerpark Amusement Park - Kauhava

Fortresses in Finland stand as powerful symbols of the country's history and architectural heritage. These structures reveal fascinating stories of the past and provide great insight into the strategic importance of their locations.

• Turku Castle – Turku – This medieval castle has played a central role in Finnish history since the late 13th century.
• Olavinlinna – Savonlinna – A stunning 15th-century castle, built to defend against Russian invasions.
• Hämeenlinna Castle – Hämeenlinna – An impressive fortress dating back to the late 13th century, reflecting Finnish heritage.
• Raseborg Castle – Ekenäs – A beautiful ruin from the 15th century that stands as a monument of Swedish influence.
• Kotka Fortress – Kotka – With scenic views and historical significance, this fortress dates back to the 18th century.
• Suomenlinna Fortress – Helsinki – A UNESCO World Heritage site, this maritime fortress exemplifies military architecture from the 18th century.
• Ruins of Uusikaupunki Fortress – Uusikaupunki – A historical site reflecting the naval strategies from the times of Sweden.

National parks and protected areas in Finland play a crucial role in conserving the country's rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. These spaces offer great opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking to wildlife watching.

Located just outside Helsinki, Nuuksio is a peaceful retreat known for its dense forests, lakes, and various hiking trails. Perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

This park boasts rugged cliffs and pristine lakes, ideal for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Entry is usually free, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Famous for its dramatic landscapes and rich flora and fauna, Oulanka offers fantastic trails, including the Karhunkierros Trail, which is popular among trekkers.

Koli is celebrated for its scenic vistas and traditional Finnish landscapes, perfect for hiking and experiencing seasonal changes.

A beautiful area for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its hiking paths and beautiful views of the northern lights in winter.

This island, while a bit off the beaten path, is a unique spot for history enthusiasts interested in former leprosy hospital ruins and beautiful nature walks.

• Other notable protected areas:
  • Saimaa Lake Region
  • Selkä-Suomen National Park
  • Västervik Nature Reserve

Finland is rich in spiritual and architectural heritage, featuring stunning landmarks that speak to its diverse religious history. Some of the sites represent important cultural milestones and reflect Finnish artistry.

These serene places offer insights into the monastic tradition within Finnish culture.

• Valamo Monastery - Heinävesi - An active Orthodox monastery known for its stunning architecture and serene environment.
• Lintula Convent - Heinävesi - Home to a community of Orthodox nuns and offers hospitality and peace.

Churches in Finland reflect various architectural styles and historical contexts.

• Helsinki Cathedral - Helsinki - A neoclassical masterpiece overlooking the Senate Square.
• Uspenski Cathedral - Helsinki - A stunning Eastern Orthodox cathedral known for its distinctive golden domes.
• Turku Cathedral - Turku - The national shrine of Finland, symbolizing its Christian heritage.
• Old Church of Mannerheim - Helsinki - A quaint wooden church showcasing charming local decor.
• Kirkkonummi Church - Kirkkonummi - A historical church with a beautiful 19th-century design.

To make the most of your visit to attractions in Finland, planning ahead is essential. Here are some practical tips to enhance your experience.

• Check opening hours online before your visit.
• Consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid queues.
• Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.
• Be respectful when taking photographs, especially in religious sites.
• Learn about local customs and etiquette to enhance your interactions.
• Research how to get to remote sites, as transportation can vary.
• Take guided tours for deeper insights into historical attractions.
• Use a local currency for transactions; credit cards are widely accepted.
• Stay safe by keeping your belongings secure in crowded places.
• Be mindful of wildlife when hiking or exploring natural parks.