Finland is rich in history and filled with epic landscapes. It holds a reputation as one of the happiest countries in the world. There is no doubt that this incredible country in Europe would cast a spill on you and have you to want so more after a visit. Whether you enjoy recreation activities or natural wildlife, there is a place for everyone in the Nordic country.
There are so many great to see and explore, which make challenging to decide the best things to do in Finland. But we made it easier for you and carefully selected the top 10 things to do in the country.
See The Northern Lights
One of the biggest things to do in Finland, which is the country famous for is Aurora Borealis (or Northern Light).
Many people like to travel to major cities like Rovaniemi or Levi to see the Northern Light phenomena. What causes the Northern Light is when the sun particles enter the earth’s atmosphere and rise to an excited state. Therefore, they emit lights as green, red, and purple.
It is beautiful to see and can stir your sense of wonder. I would highly recommend you see it at least once in a lifetime.
Camping in the Wild
There are a lot of places to camp in Finland, where you can relax and gaze the stars. What good is that about 70% of Finland is covered with trees and contains thousands of lakes. Therefore, it is not hard to find campsites.
There are 41 national parks in Finland with more than 200 campgrounds, so find the best place to camp can be challenging. However, we picked a few locations that I am sure you will love.
To make it easier for you, you should consider a campsite that is near major cities in the wilderness or in the middle of the lake, so you can experience nature at its true essence. I would recommend campsites near Lapland, such as Archipelago National Park
There are many campsites there, but the best campsite is Prästö on the Åland Islands. At this remote location, you can see Bomarsund Fortress or the peaceful wilderness of Mossala Island.
Road Trip Around Finland
In Finland, natural sceneries are everywhere, so you can plan a road trip and takes it all in your own base. No need to rush it. You can travel slowly and enjoy the scenery. Take some pictures along the way.
There are modern road networks that stretch all the way up through the country. The most common once are from Helsinki to Northern Lapland. That is where you should plan your road trip. You will be mesmerized by how beautiful the roads are, so make sure to bring your camera because you might want to capture the moment.
Stay in the IGLOO Hotel
One of the most unique experiences that we ever had visiting Lapland is staying in an Igloo hotel. They are also known as Aurora cabins because the cabins have glass roofs and walls that allow you to see the Northern Light dancing among the sky.
Here is a list of Igloo hotels or Aurora Cabins that we have been to:
- Arctic Treehouse Hotel
- Northern Lights Ranch
- Pyhan Asteli Igloos
- Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos
Visit Santa Park
Santa Park in Rovaniemi is one of the most popular places to visit in Finland. Many people from all over the world flock to Santa’s home each year. What a great way to let the kids within you and experience Christmas in its true form.
You can ride the magic train or enjoy the Jolly Elf show. If that is not enough for you, you can also earn a diploma at the Elf School or decorate cookies in the kitchen of Mrs. Gingerbread. If you have kids, I am sure they will thank you for this magical experience.
Take A Husky Ride
Taking a husky ride is one of the most fun things to do in Finland. The best time of the year to experience this activity is during winter when it is snowing.
I would highly recommend booking a tour at Bearhill Husky Safari in Rovaniemi. You will also have the chance to pet those incredible creatures and if you have food, you can feed them.
Go Hiking in their National Parks
Hiking is one of the most fun and free things to do in Finland. There are 41 national parks in Finland, so finding a beautiful place to hike is easy. I would highly recommend hiking the famous and well-known hike, Karhunkierros trail in Ruka Kuusamo
The hike trail is 82 km long that starts from Hautajärvi (Salla) all the way to Oulanka National Park and end at the center of Ruka, Kuusamo. This hike is one of the most rewarding hikes because you will experience lush green pine forest, passing by river streams (Kitka River and Oulanka River) and Oulanka lake.
There are also waterfalls along the way, which are Konttainen and Valtavaara fells. You might also encounter many rare species of animals and enjoy birdwatching along the way. There are campgrounds in your ways, so you can choose to set back and relax to enjoy the fresh air. No need to rush. It is a life-changing opportunity.
Visit Small Towns and Villages
What amazing about Finland is that it does not have many big cities, and the real treasure layaway within its small towns and villages. Therefore, visiting them is one of the most fun things to do in Finland. You can enjoy their unique charms and characteristics.
Get to know the locals and learn about their habits, culture and tradition. Slow travel and visit those small villages and towns. Eat their food and learn some of their languages. What a great way to spend your vacation. Some of those attractions that I would recommend you visit are Porvoo, Savonlinna and Inari.
Try Their Finest Food
As long as you are OK with trying Salmon and Reindeer, I would say go for it. Finland is known for having the best restaurants that cook Reindeer and Salmon. I would highly recommend you try their barbecue Reindeer. It tastes delicious. For dessert, you can try the traditional dish in Northern Finland. It is called Juustoleipä. You can find it in many restaurants or groceries stores. All you have got to do is heat it up and enjoy it with a cup of coffee.
The Northernmost Stone Fortress in the World – Olavinlinna Castle
One of the top things to do in Finland is the Stone Fortress in Savonlinna. It was built 600 years ago and is still in good shape. It has become a popular tourist destination, especially because of the opera festivals that are held there.
You can enjoy it from the outside and from the inside. It is the kind of place where history, art and culture collide one another. I am sure you won’t be disappointed visiting this magical place.
Located in the middle of Finland’s largest lake, Lake Saimaa, the Olavinlinna Fortress is on the foot of Punkaharju national scenic drive and Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that Finland is one of the most beautiful destinations that you could ever find. This tourist destination is famous for its rich culture and natural wilderness. If you are nature lovers or history geek, there is a place for you in this Nordic country.