There’s so much more to Finland than Nokia, saunas, lakes and Moomins. You can enjoy stunning natural landscapes, wonderfully welcoming service and unforgettable dining experiences. Here are our top 10 reasons to visit this beautiful country.
The world is opening back up for tourism, and we can finally go visit those places we have been holding off on for over a year. However, restrictions are still in effect in many countries, and we recommend all travellers to take precautions and read the entry guidelines for their destination carefully.
1. Exotic natural landscape
The thousands of lakes in Finland are surrounded by beautiful forest-covered hills and valleys. There is untouched and exotic nature here like nowhere else, snow-capped mountains and trees, as well as the spectacular aurora borealis or Northern Lights! Visit Saimaa, Finland's largest lake, located in the beautiful Lakeland region. You also have the ”Right to Roam” in Finland, which is a law that allows you to set up a tent anywhere you like as long as you are not disturbing any people or the surrounding nature.
2. Kind and friendly people
Finns love their country and are proud of Finnish nature and culture. They will always greet you with openness, warmth, and hospitality, and quickly introduce you to their way of life.
3. Beautiful architecture
Finland's architecture is deeply rooted in the surrounding nature. The Finnish architect Alvar Aalto has created many impressive and beautiful buildings that will take your breath away, all just through simple lines, forms, features, and the use of natural materials.
4. Fantastic National Parks
Experience Finland's magnificent national parks with their rolling river valleys, beautiful lakes, forests, mountains and fantastic wildlife. Here in Finland you can find king eagles, grouse and reindeer roaming in the wild. Visit the Oulanka National Park or Nuuksio National Park, perfect for those wishing to experience wildlife and wilderness.
5. Helsinki
The capital city Helsinki offers culinary experiences, great shopping, beautiful art and cultural history, and outstanding architecture. What do you need? Deep relaxation, activities for young and old or a vibrant nightlife? First time travelling to Helsinki? Here are 4 tips on what to see and do on a weekend trip!
6. Skiing in powdery snow
Do you like skiing? Look out over the beautiful landscape while you ski on powdery fine snow down one of Finland's many exciting mountains. Kittilä in Lapland offers very good skiing opportunities. You can visit the Ylvas or Levi ski resorts which offer both beautiful nature and lots of fun.
7. A Mecca for shopping enthusiasts
Finland's many charming shops and large shopping centres offer iconic, exclusive and affordable textiles, jewels, furniture and much more. The Stockmann Department Store in Helsinki is Scandinavia's largest shopping mall with more than 50,000 square metres over 10 floors, in other words a Mecca for shopping enthusiasts and well worth a visit!
8. Unique dining experiences
Why not try Finland's many restaurants and eateries, and enjoy delicious delicacies from Finnish nature such as chanterelle soup, a sweet blueberry pie or exquisite fresh salmon. For those seeking a unique dining experience, authentic Finnish food, delicious flavours and wild herbs, Restaurant Juuri in Helsinki is definitely a must!
9. Finnish sauna
Ok, so we had to include a sauna. A Finnish sauna is an important part of Finnish culture and is used both for relaxation and health, but is also a meeting point for business and festive gatherings. How about going to a sauna at a height of 40 metres? The Skywheel Ferris wheel at the Helsinki Market Square has its own sauna trolley that offers views of Helsinki city and the sea beyond.
10. Island hopping and beach life
Do you fancy island hopping between the beautiful little islands, swimming on the chalky white beaches or relaxing on top of a nice rock with a fantastic view? Outside Helsinki, you can island hop from Lonna to Vallisaari and Suomenlinna. Finland offers everything you could wish for!
Fancy a trip to Finland? We have a great range of hotels in Helsinki. You can view some of our hotels in this Nordic capital below.
Hotel Kämp
Hotel Kämp offers a majestic retreat in the heart of Helsinki. The beautiful classic design, gourmet restaurants and traditional-meets-modern spa facilities mean the hotel is well worth a visit in its own right!
Clarion Hotel® Aviapolis
Clarion Hotel® Aviapolis is just 2 kilometres away from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. This is a perfect meeting place with stylish design, warm and luxurious atmosphere, sauna and fabulous food.
Clarion Hotel® Helsinki
Clarion Hotel® Helsinki is an urban hotel, well known for its proximity to the city's amenities, its beautiful style, its unique meeting point on the hotel's rooftop terrace with a pool and sauna, Sky Bar with a view over the city and gourmet cuisine from The Social Bar & Bistro.
GLO Hotel Art
Are you a fan of Art Nouveau? GLO Hotel Art was built in 1903 and stands firm as an authentic gem of a place in the middle of Helsinki's otherwise largely modern Nordic design. Get your castle vibe on and immerse yourself in the exceptional level of comfort and service at GLO Hotel Art.
GLO Hotel Kluuvi
GLO Hotel Kluuvi is the place to be for foodies! Check into a room brimming with style and head down to The TRAY with a friend or nine, where amazing street food experiences with exciting sharing plates await. You certainly won’t go hungry when you stay here!
GLO Hotel Sello
If you’re seeking a stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then GLO Hotel Sello in Espoo is your best bet! With tasty barbecued dishes served all the year round, this is the ideal location for company events and weekend breaks with friends and family!
Hotel F6
Centrally located with immediate access to shopping streets and culture, Hotel F6 is popular because of its beautiful design, luxurious style, cultured atmosphere, and healthy and delicious breakfast featuring the finest Finnish cuisine.
Hotel Fabian
Are you seeking a second home in Helsinki? Hotel Fabian offers guests an unrivalled homely feel for ultimate relaxation. With 50 beautifully furnished rooms and comfortable lounge areas, this friendly boutique hotel will provide you with wonderful lasting memories until you return!
Hotel Haven
The boutique hotel Hotel Haven is centrally located next to the South Harbour, just a short walk from the best bars, restaurants and attractions that Helsinki has to offer. Sea view? Most definitely!
Hotel St. George
Hotel St. George takes wellness to a whole new level by focusing on relaxation and healthy traditions. Take a trip to the spa or admire the over 400 works of art displayed throughout the hotel. Our aim is to bring joy to your soul.
Klaus K
Klaus K is like something straight out of a fairytale. Inspired by Finland's epic poetry, the Kalevala, and featuring elements of Finnish folklore and mythology, this hotel is sure to transport you deep into the heartlands of Finnish history and culture.
Lilla Roberts
Elegance, luxury and a good dash of warmth - all brought together with stunning Art Deco style. Lilla Roberts is a must for arty metropolitan wanderers who enjoy classic elegance and luxury during their travels. Finnish food and fashion are the foundation of this unique concept hotel.
