The Best Things to do in Finland

The 25 Best Things to do in Finland

A striking blend of rugged beauty, modern design, traditional gastronomy, and a phenomenal sauna culture, Finland really is a magical place. Head out into the snow-swept countryside, and you could go for days without seeing another person. Or spend your time in the dazzling cities and be surrounded by twinkling cosmopolitan lights and a captivating urban atmosphere. 

Whenever you visit, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Finland. Winter is one of the most magical times to explore, when frosty subzero temperatures provide the perfect conditions for winter sports and steamy saunas. Head into the wilderness and pet a real reindeer or captain your very own Siberian husky sled and go wherever your heart takes you! 

Alternatively, plan your trip to coincide with Finland’s summer, when the country comes to life with upbeat music festivals, lazy beach days, and outdoor art exhibits. The temperatures are surprisingly warm at this time of year, giving you ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and simply enjoying the great outdoors. 

With so many cool things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Finland. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Finland bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring Santa’s homeland! 

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Finland

1. Meet the Real Santa Claus

Best Things to do in Finland: Santa Claus Village

However old you are, one of the coolest things to do in Finland is to meet the real Santa Claus! We all know Santa comes from Finland, and you can visit him at his office throughout the year. You’ll find Santa’s official office in the Santa Claus Village in the town of Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle.

Step inside, and you can have a personal chat with Father Christmas. Don’t forget to tell him what you want this year. Whether you visit with your enchanted little ones or as adults for a bit of nostalgia, this is something you’ve absolutely got to include on your Denmark sightseeing itinerary. 

While being able to meet Santa is definitely the highlight of this attraction, there are loads of other things to do here, too. There’s an Elf School you can attend to learn how to build toys and other useful elfish skills. You can also hang out with Mrs. Claus, who will show you how to make the very best gingerbread around.

Experience a Santa Claus Village Tour


2. Be Enchanted by the Seurasaari Open Air Museum

Fun Things to do in Finland: Seurasaari Open Air Museum

Tucked away on Helsinki’s Seurasaari island, you’ll find one of the most fascinating museums in all of Finland. Known as the Seurasaari Open Air Museum, this captivating attraction invites you to step back in time and discover what it was like to live in Finland centuries ago. 

Take a look around, and you’ll discover 87 individual buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You can step inside and explore all kinds of cool structures, from rustic farm buildings and traditional folk houses to grandiose manors and regal palaces. 

To really help you get in the mood, local guides are dressed up in period clothing and will take you on a tour throughout the open-air museum. They’ll regale you with all sorts of stories about the things that used to go on, as well as teach you about typical crafts of the time, such as spinning and embroidery.  

Book a Seurasaari Open-Air Museum Tour


3. Check Out the Imatra Rapids

Finland Things to do: Imatra Rapids

You’ll find some of the best sights in Finland on the Vuoksi River in Imatra. Known in Finnish as Imatrankoski, the Imatra Rapids have been amazing visitors since the late 1700s and form one of the most impressive attractions in the Saimaa Geopark in southeast Finland.

These powerful rapids are more than 5,000 years old and were created by gushing waters from nearby lakes collecting in a single point. Frustratingly, a dam was built in 1929 to control the rapids, so they’re not always visible. However, they are released several times each day during summer, so you can enjoy the natural wonder of the surging waves.

The best spots to watch the thundering rapids are Koskipuitso Park and the Koskisilta Bridge. The rapids are also sometimes released on special occasions, such as Finnish Independence Day and New Year’s Day. Check the website to see if you’ll get to watch the show during your vacation.

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4. Embrace your Bohemian Side at the Midsummer Festival

Best Things to do in Finland: Midsummer Festival

If you’re planning on visiting Finland at the end of June, you’ve got to check out the Midsummer Festival. Held on a Saturday each year between June 20 and 26, this magical festival sees the country’s rural areas and beaches lit up with huge bonfires.

Throughout the country, you’ll find great big gatherings of people eating, drinking, and celebrating. There are fantastic music concerts, group barbecues, fishing expeditions, and organized boat trips to celebrate the beginning of summer.

Because the sun doesn’t set at this time of year, it can be difficult to tell when it’s time for the party to end. That’s why you’ll see parties, events, and festivals carrying on until the very early hours. If you’re close to a lake or the sea, you’ll even see people taking a dip in the middle of the night!

Most locals spend this time in small cottages away from the city. So if you’re in Helsinki at the end of June, you may find the place deserted.  


5. Take a Break at the Archipelago National Park

Must do things in Finland: Archipelago National Park

When you want to get away from the city and surround yourself with nature, one of the top things to do in Finland is to spend some time at the Archipelago National Park

Hidden away off the coast of southern Finland near Turku, this stunning natural space was first opened to the public in 1983. The scattering of islands that make up the park offers a fascinating fusion of Russian, Swedish, and Finnish heritage. Wherever you look, you’ll be treated to spectacular sea views and dazzling horizons. 

One of the best ways to explore is to hit the water. Depending on how energetic you’re feeling, you can hire a kayak or rent a sailboat and hop from island to island. While you’re sailing over the water, keep an eye out for local wildlife. 

This part of Finland is teeming with curious seals and babbling sea geese. If you’re into fishing, you’ll also spot huge numbers of pike and trout.


6. Learn about Local Pioneers at the Siida Museum

Cool Things to do in Finland: Siida Museum

The best place in Finland to learn about Sámi culture, the Siida Museum is set on Inari island in the center of the sparkling Lake Inari in the very north of Finland. This intriguing center is dedicated to telling the story of the Sámi people, the semi-nomadic tribe who once wandered all across Finland. 

Here you’ll discover all kinds of interesting exhibits, from photo galleries and interactive displays to all kinds of genuine artifacts and information about what the land looked like centuries ago.

As well as the permanent exhibits, the Siida Museum also boasts a number of temporary exhibits that change throughout the year. So even if you’ve already visited the museum before, it’s still worth visiting again. 

Sámi culture states that nature and culture are closely linked. The museum explores the concept by following the history of the Sámi people from ancient times up to today. It’s a real eye-opener and will help you appreciate the local people and your surroundings for the rest of your trip. 

Get your Siida Entrance Ticket


7. Have Cheese for Dessert

What to do in Finland: Juustoleipa

Sampling the local food is one of the most fun things to do in Finland. If you’ve left room for dessert, we suggest trying juustoleipä. Also known as bread cheese and Finnish squeaky cheese, this unique delicacy is a typical Finnish dessert that you’ll find in all grocery stores, cafes, and local restaurants.

Juustoleipä is a solid fresh cheese made from rich cow’s milk. In Finland, you may also come across it made from goat milk or even reindeer milk. It’s warmed up in a skillet with a bit of butter until the outside just starts to turn brown, then it’s dished up on a plate and topped with delicious cloudberries. 

You can buy top-quality juustoleipä from Lentävä Lehmä (the Flying Cow) at the Hakaniemi Market Hall in Helsinki. Take it home, heat it up, and enjoy it with some sweet berries, jam, or jelly for the perfect dessert or afternoon sweet treat!

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8. Explore the Historic Olavinlinna Castle

Best Things to do in Finland: Olavinlinna Castle

One of the best things to do in Finland is to explore the country’s many castles. If you’ve only got time for one, we suggest you visit Olavinlinna Castle. Standing proudly in Savonlinna, this remarkable castle dates back to the 15th century and is instantly recognizable thanks to its three dominating towers.

The spectacular castle was built perched on a rock in the middle of a glassy lake. This smart position meant it was well protected from enemy attacks. Today, it means it’s a little tricky to get to. You’ve got to traverse a number of creaking wooden bridges to get to the fortress, but the journey is worth it for what you’ll discover when you arrive.

You can explore on your own or sign up for one of the guided tours. These take an hour and let you in on all the goings on that happened in and around the castle during its heyday. 


9. Relax in a Public Sauna

Best Things to do in Finland: Loyly

When it’s time for a break from all the Finland sightseeing, take it easy and unwind in a public sauna. Saunas are hugely popular throughout the country. In fact, some people go every single day before work. Being able to relax in silence is a wonderful way to cleanse your mind and body, as well as prepare yourself for another day of exploring! 

With more than three million saunas scattered throughout Finland, you’ve got plenty to choose from. Whether you want an ultra-modern chic experience or a traditional rustic experience, you’ll find it here. 

Rajaportin sauna in Tampere is the oldest public sauna in Finland that’s still in use today. It’s still heated by wood, just like it was when it opened over 100 years ago, and also offers excellent massages. 

For something a bit more modern, check out Löyly in Helsinki. Located on the waterfront, this stylish hotspot offers three individual saunas, plus a swimming pool and restaurant.

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10. Admire Wild Reindeer at the Salla Reindeer Park

Fun Things to do in Finland: Salla Reindeer Park

What makes Salla Reindeer Park special is that it’s one of the few remaining parts of Finland where you’ll find reindeer that are still looked after by traditional herders. These animal experts have worked with these incredible creatures for generations and take wonderful care of them. 

Not only can you enjoy the stunning snowy scenery of the park, but you can also sign up for all kinds of exciting tours. Kayaking expeditions, dog sleigh rides, reindeer safaris, ice fishing, ice swimming, Northern Light hunts, and Arctic snowshoe walks are just some of the amazing things you can do here.

Unique Things to do in Finland: Salla Reindeer Park

Don’t be disappointed if you’re planning to visit the northern Lapland region in the summer. The park stays open all year, and there are plenty of things you can do in the warmer months. You can visit and feed the reindeer, enjoy a midnight hike, visit the husky farm, and canoe across a sparkling lake.


11. Zoom Down Snowy Slopes in Levi

Must do things in Finland: Levi

If you’re a fan of high-speed thrills, one of the must-do things in Finland is to hit the slopes and go skiing or snowboarding in Levi. The most popular ski resort in the country, Levi is home to the annual Alpine World Cup Race, so you just know it’s going to have superb slopes.

Here you can zoom down 43 individual slopes that offer something for all ages and abilities. There are also 26 well-spread-out ski lifts that will whisk you to the top with minimal effort. Levi boasts a total of 124 miles of trails, including cross-country skiing sections, as well as black runs for expert downhill skiers. 

Are you a fan of snowboarding? You’ll be happy to hear there’s also a dedicated snowboard park in the resort with loads of slopes and places for cool tricks. Even if you’re not interested in skiing or snowboarding, there are still plenty of things to do within Levi. There’s a reindeer park and husky sled rides, plus snowmobiles and ice karting.


12. Catch a Late-Night Movie at the Midnight Sun Film Festival

Fun Things to do in Finland: Midnight Sun Film Festival

For an experience unlike any other, check out the Midnight Sun Film Festival. This cool event takes place each June – a special time in Finland when the sun never sets. To make the most of the super long nights, the city of Sodankyla shows international and national films for five days straight.

The city has been doing this since 1986, and it’s always a huge hit. As the sun never sets during these five days, there’s no reason to stop watching! The movies are broadcast across a number of locations, and they cover all sorts of cool themes, so you’ll always find something to watch.

As well as the movies, the Midnight Sun Film Festival also welcomes a number of famous guests who will host talks, workshops, and other events throughout the festival. Check the website to see what’s going on during your visit and start planning.

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13. Check Out the Fascinating Architecture

Finland Things to do: Fascinating Architecture

The eye-catching buildings are some of the best things to see in Finland. Whether you’re city-slicking in Lapland or Helsinki, you’ll discover that the place is bursting with amazing architecture from centuries ago up until today.

Take a look around, and you’ll find everything from rustic wooden churches to contemporary pieces by famous architects like Alvar Aalto and many others. If you don’t know where to begin, we definitely recommend you check out the Löyly Sauna, Amos Rex Museum, and Oodi Library in Helsinki. These stunning structures have been featured in publications all over the world because of their sheer beauty.

You don’t have to visit a major city for stellar architecture. Even visiting a small-town library (such as the new Fyyri library in Kirkkonummi) can give the architecture lover inside you a bit of a thrill. 

A lot of these spots are so much better to see in person than they are in pictures. Finnish architects are well-known for understanding the interplay between nature and ever-changing light – something you can only experience if you visit these places yourself. 


14. Make the Best Sandwiches Ever with Ruisleipä

Unique Things to do in Finland: Ruisleipa

If you’re planning on making a picnic during your vacation in Finland, you’ve got to pick up some ruisleipä. A sandwich-must, ruisleipä is classic Finnish rye bread that’s made from a mixture of all-purpose flour and rye flour.

It can be light or dark in color and is typically denser than bread made with just wheat flour. This makes it great for heartier ingredients, like smoky sausages, pickled herrings, and hard-boiled eggs. 

Fun Things to do in Finland: Ruisleipa

Despite being made with just a handful of ingredients, ruisleipä is packed with layers of flavor and an amazing texture you won’t be able to get enough of. Take a slice, spread on some butter, and you’ve got the perfect Finnish breakfast. 

This type of bread is so popular that you’ll find it in all grocery stores, cafes, and hotel breakfast buffets. But for the best Finnish rye bread, we recommend you visit a local bakery. Anton & Anton in Helsinki dishes up incredible ruisleipä, as well as loads of other special Finnish treats. 


15. Snap a Photo of the Kummakivi Balancing Rock

Best Things to do in Finland: Kummakivi Balancing Rock

For one of the most unique things to do in Finland, take a trip to Ruokolahti. Here you’ll find Kummakivi – one of the most unusual attractions in the country. Known in English as Strange Rock, this landmark is hidden away deep within the woods, but the trek is definitely worth it to see something like this!

The colossal rock is perfectly balanced on top of a smaller rock, almost as if by magic. It’s not a human-made attraction. While there are folktales that tell of giants placing the 23-foot-wide rock on the smaller rock, it’s more likely that powerful glaciers took the giant rock with them and deposited it in just the right place. 

Although no one knows for sure, most experts think the rock is around 8,000 years old, making it one of the oldest things you’ll see in Finland!

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16. Visit One of the Oldest Zoos in the World in Helsinki

What to do in Finland: Korkeasaari Zoo

Korkeasaari Zoo first opened its doors to visitors in 1889, making it one of the oldest zoos on the planet. It’s located on Korkeasaari Island and boasts a huge collection of animals, with more than 150 individual species, plus over 1,000 kinds of plants.

The zoo spans a whopping 52 acres and is full of different environments designed to replicate the habitats that the animals have in the world. Take a look around, and you’ll come across tiny pygmy marmosets, Amur tigers, European bison, agile snow leopards, and spectacular peafowls. The zoo is also home to a number of indigenous Finnish creatures, including the European forest reindeer, wolverine, and bears. 

With every visit, you’re supporting the zoo’s efforts to conserve biodiversity and endangered species. The zoo is open throughout the year and offers a different experience each season. If you’re planning on visiting during winter, you can hide in the tropical houses when you need to warm up.


17. Hike Wherever You Like

Best Things to do in Finland: Hike Wherever You Like

Hiking is one of the top Finland activities – and for good reason, too. Finland protects everyone’s (locals and visitors) rights to walk and hike anywhere they want in the country as long as they clean up after themselves and respect the environment. 

The naturally beautiful country boasts more than 40 individual national parks just begging to be explored. With dazzling lakes, verdant forests, sandy beaches, and wide-open spaces, Finland offers countless opportunities for climbing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and simply exploring. If you visit in the winter, you’ll also have the chance to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tobogganing.

Finland Things to do: Hike Wherever You Like

Finland’s national parks are incredibly well-maintained and feature clearly marked hiking routes, information boards, nature trails, and picnic sites. Many of the parks also have well-equipped campsites if you want to spend the night under the stars. If that’s a little too adventurous for you, a lot of parks also have cabins with beds you can rent. 


18. Let Your Hair Down at the Linnanmäki Amusement Park

Best Things to do in Finland: Linnanmaki Amusement Park

For a fun day out, spend the day at the Linnanmäki Amusement Park in Helsinki. This theme park may have opened way back in 1950, but loads of modern additions have been made over the years to bring the park up-to-date. 

Traditional attractions include bumper cars, a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a wooden rollercoaster built in 1951. Some of the more modern attractions include the Ukko roller coaster, which zooms at 65 mph, the Taiga roller coaster, which takes you upside down four times, and the Raketti tower, which shoots 200 feet up into the sky in 2.5 seconds!

If you’re not really into rides and attractions, Sea Life Helsinki may be more your style. This family-friendly aquarium within the park is open every day (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) and is home to all sorts of tropical creatures from around the world.

When you need a break, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. There’s a huge range of stores where you can pick up all kinds of delicious snacks, plus plenty of casual cafes that dish up international eats.

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19. Check Out Finland’s Traditional Wooden Houses

Finland Bucket List: Traditional Wooden Houses

The cute red houses you find all over the country are some of the top Finland attractions. Centuries ago, all the houses here were made from wood and painted red. A handful of yellow and blue houses were thrown into the mix to keep things colorful. 

Although that’s not what the country’s modern houses look like today, there are still well-preserved towns filled with these houses. They look exactly the same today as they did hundreds of years ago! Walking around the houses and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere is a great way to imagine what it was like to live in old Finland. 

Fun Things to do in Finland: Traditional Wooden Houses

You’ll find these preserved towns dotted all over the country, with some of the best ones in Helsinki. These districts are known as Vallila and Käpylä and are easy to access when you’re exploring Finland’s capital.

If you’re planning a road trip, Old Porvoo is also an excellent place to check out. It’s around an hour’s drive from Helsinki and is filled with traditional houses that run along the waterfront. 


20. Grab Your Dance Shoes at Hit the Floor at Tangomarkkinat

If you’re planning your trip for the beginning of July, you’ve got to check out Tangomarkkinat. This isn’t just the oldest tango festival in Finland, it’s the oldest one in the world! Held each July in Seinäjoki, this festival sees the country’s most talented tango dancers, composers, and singers come together to compete for top prizes.

The biggest and most prestigious competition is the tango singing contest. This is known as the Tango Royal, and it determines the Tango King and Tango Queen of the year. 

In addition to all the contests, there are also loads of live music performances and public dances. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to tango. Although tango dancing is encouraged, you’re free to dance to the music however you like.

People get really glammed up for the event, so make sure you don your best clothes and fanciest shoes.


21. Warm Up with Comforting Lohikeitto

Finland Things to do: Lohikeitto

One of the most comforting things to do in Finland in winter is to cozy up with a great big bowl of lohikeitto. This iconic Finnish soup is a creamy fish chowder filled with big flakes of salmon, fluffy potatoes, sweet carrots, buttery leeks, and rich fish stock. It’s incredibly delicious and comforting, especially on a cold day when it’s snowing out. 

This dish is so popular that you’ll find it served in pretty much every cafe and restaurant throughout Finland, especially during the colder months. If you’re in Helsinki, check out Ekstrom Seafood. This restaurant serves up the very best lohikeitto. It’s super creamy and served with freshly-baked bread.

Restaurant Sea Horse is another top location for lohikeitto. You can order it as an appetizer or entrée size, along with all kinds of other local Finnish dishes. Here it’s sprinkled with freshly-chopped chives and looks like a work of art.

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22. Explore a Cave from the Ice Age

Finland is filled with fascinating wonders, and you’ll find one of the best on the outskirts of Helsinki. Högberget Cave, also known as the Womb of Mother Earth, is an amazing cave that dates all the way back to the Ice Age.

The cave got its nickname because the inside looks a lot like the inside of a womb. The only light you can see is the daylight that filters through tiny cracks in the cliff. It can feel a bit eerie, especially if you’re claustrophobic, but there’s something unusually calming and comforting about being inside the cave. 

When you’re done exploring, you’ll find plenty of other things to check out in the local area. The region is well-known for being one of the best places in Finland to go hiking. You’ll find a number of amazing trails you can follow that reward you with spectacular views. 


23. Hunt for Amethysts at the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine

Best Things to do in Finland: Lampivaara Amethyst Mine

Buying jewelry from a store is fun. But do you know what’s more fun? Hunting for sparkly gems yourself! One of the coolest things to do in Finland, spending the day at the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine is a great way to get your hands on a stunning gemstone without paying a small fortune.

The amethysts in Lampivaara date back to around 200 million years ago and are located in the only mine of its kind in Europe. The only catch is that getting to the mine is tricky. You need to either hike or ride a snowmobile through the Pyhä-Luosto National Park to reach the hillside where the mine is located. 

Cool Things to do in Finland: Lampivaara Amethyst Mine

After you’ve learned all about the history of amethysts in Finland, it’s time for the fun part – hunting for them yourself. You get the chance to use traditional mining techniques that have been used for centuries to uncover glistening amethysts. The best thing is that you can keep every gemstone you find as long as it’s smaller than your fist. 

Experience an Amethyst Mines Tour


24. Sleep Under the Northern Lights

Finland Bucket List: Northern Lights

Finland is an incredible place to see the Northern Lights. Although seeing them is never guaranteed, you’ve got an excellent chance of spotting them when you visit in winter. At this time of year, known in Finland as Kaamos, the sun disappears for months, and it’s almost completely dark.

The sparkling white snow, the dazzling moon, the bright twinkling stars, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights create a magical nightscape you’ll never forget. To increase your chances of watching the show, spend the night inside a glass hut. It’s a great way to stay warm and cozy while watching the breathtaking spectacular before you. 

Ideally located for spotting the Northern Lights, the Kakslauttanen Arctic is one of the best places to stay in Finland for an unforgettable experience. The resort offers a number of glass igloos that allow you to lie in bed, covered by warm furs, and gaze up at the night sky. 

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25. Test Your Taste Buds with Salmiakki

Must do things in Finland: Salmiakki

If you love trying new things, you’ve got to give salmiakki a go. This local delicacy may look like ordinary licorice, but bite it, and you’ll be in for a big surprise! Salty licorice is huge throughout Scandinavia, especially in Lapland.

Here licorice is flavored with salmiak salt, also known as ammonium chloride. While it may be an acquired taste for anyone unfamiliar with the unique treat, it’s hugely popular in Finland. If you don’t want to try the licorice on its own, you’ll find it in alcohol, candy, milkshakes, ice cream, sauces, muffins, and cakes throughout the country. 

Salmiakki is so popular throughout Finland that you’ll find it available from every grocery store, as well as in specialty candy stores. A lot of locals say you can only really enjoy the flavor if you’ve been eating it since you were little. But try it and see what you think!

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Finland. What’s your favorite thing to do in Finland?


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About the Author:

  • Nicola Quinn

    Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since.

    From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places.

    The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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