Are you planning a trip to Finland in 2023 and looking for the best places to visit? look no further! In this guide, we’ll explore the top destinations in Finland for the ultimate travel experience. Finland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world which has a lot to offer to its tourists.
Finland is known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, from the rugged fells of Lapland to the archipelago sea, dotted with thousands of islands.
The country is also famous for its unique culture and traditions, such as the Midnight Sun, the Northern Lights, and the Finnish sauna. From viewing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights to discovering the wonders of winter, this guide will help you discover the best places to visit in Finland in 2023.
Let’s explore the Best Places to Visit in Finland in 2023
1. Helsinki
Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland, and it is a vibrant and modern metropolis with a rich history and culture. One of the best ways to experience the city is by taking a leisurely stroll through historic Senate Square, where you can admire Helsinki Cathedral, Helsinki’s iconic symbol.
Originally built in 1852 and most recently renovated in 1830, this stunning church is a wonderful example of neoclassical architecture, with its grand neo classical colonnade and 84-meter-tall dome. Another great way to appreciate the beauty of Senate Square and Helsinki Cathedral is to go during sunset or at night when the square and cathedral are lit up.
Helsinki is one of the most beautiful places in Finland in winter. Additionally, the square hosts many events throughout the year, such as concerts and markets, which can add to the overall experience of visiting the area.
2. Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is a city located in Finnish Lapland and known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, it is one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who love nature and outdoor activities. The Santa Claus Village is a popular attraction, where visitors can meet Santa Claus and learn about Finnish Christmas traditions.
Rovaniemi offers activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris, as well as the opportunity to view the Northern Lights as it is one of best places in Finland to see northern lights. Also Consider as most beautiful places in Finland in winter.
The Arcticum Science Center and Museum is another must-see in Rovaniemi, a great place to learn about the history, culture and nature of the Arctic region. Rovaniemi is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Finland and learn about the culture of Lapland.
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3. Turku
Turku is a city located in the southwest of Finland and is considered one of the best places to visit in the country. Known as the oldest city in Finland, Turku offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.
The city boasts beautiful medieval architecture, including Turku Cathedral and Turku Castle, both of which are must-see attractions. Turku also has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, art galleries and annual events such as the Medieval Market.
The city also offers riverboat cruises in the archipelago of Turku which can be a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area. Turku is the perfect destination for history and culture enthusiasts as well as those who want to experience a traditional Finnish city.
4. Porvoo
Porvoo is a beautiful historical town located in southern Finland, and is considered one of the best places to visit in Finland for those interested in history and culture. Porvoo’s old town is a must-see, where visitors can stroll charming streets lined with wooden houses and colorful buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Porvoo Cathedral is another notable attraction, a beautiful medieval stone church that provides a peaceful sanctuary for visitors to admire the stunning architecture and art. The city is also known for its art galleries, museums and traditional Finnish handicrafts.
Tourists can also take a scenic boat tour along the Porvoo River to enjoy the beautiful Finnish countryside. Porvoo is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the charming atmosphere of a small Finnish town while immersing themselves in the country’s culture and history.
5. Savonlinna
Savonlinna is a small town located in the Finnish Lake District, known for its beautiful nature, rich history and cultural heritage. It is considered one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who love outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
The most notable attraction in Savonlinna is Olavinlinna Castle, a medieval fortress that was built in the 15th century and has served as a defensive stronghold, a prison, and the residence of local governors.
Visitors can also take a boat tour on one of the many lakes surrounding the city to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Savonlinna is also famous for its annual Opera Festival, which takes place in the palace and attracts opera lovers from all over the world.
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6. Levi
Levi is a popular Ski Resort located in the northern part of Finland. It is considered one of the best places in Finland for winter sports enthusiasts, as it offers a wide range of skiing and snowboarding activities. The resort has several ski slopes of varying difficulty levels and a variety of terrain parks, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Visitors can also enjoy other winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing, reindeer safaris, and husky rides. Levi’s also has a lively après-ski scene with a variety of bars, restaurants and shops. In summer visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and river rafting.
Levi is a popular destination for viewing the northern lights, but it is not one of the best places in Finland to see them. Overall, Levi is a great destination for those looking for a winter holiday full of adventure and excitement, or a summer holiday with a mix of nature and activities.
7. Tampere
Tampere is a city in southern Finland, known for its rich industrial history and cultural heritage. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Finland for those interested in history and culture. Tampere is a beautiful city with a mix of modern and old architecture.
Tampere Art Museum, Tampereen Teatteri, and Tampereen Teatterikesä are must-see attractions for art and theater lovers. Tampere also has a variety of delicious local restaurants, many of which specialize in traditional Finnish dishes such as smoked fish, venison and hearty stews.
Visitors can also take a hike in one of the many nearby national parks, including Pyniki, Ruhaniemi and Pisplan Utotunneli, or take a cruise on one of the many lakes surrounding the city, such as Nasijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. Tampere is the perfect destination for those who want to experience Finland’s rich culture and history while enjoying the beauty of nature.
8. Aland Archipelago
The Åland Islands, also known as the Åland Archipelago, is an archipelago located in the Baltic Sea between Sweden and Finland. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who love nature and outdoor activities.
The archipelago consists of 6,500 islands, of which only 80 are inhabited. The islands are known for their beautiful landscapes and unspoiled nature, with rolling hills, rocky cliffs and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and fishing. The islands also have a rich maritime history, and visitors can explore old shipwrecks, lighthouses, and maritime museums.
The islands are also home to many traditional villages and towns, where you can explore the local culture and taste delicious local food. The Åland Islands are an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature.
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9. Kemi
Kemi is a city located in the northern part of Finland, known for its natural beauty and unique experiences. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who want to experience the arctic wilderness and culture. Kemi is home to the Kemi Snow castle, a castle made entirely of snow and ice.
Which is open during the winter season and is an attraction for winter enthusiasts. Visitors can also take a ride on the icebreaker Sampo, an old ship that was converted into a cruise ship, which takes visitors on a tour of the Gulf of Bothnia, where they can view the beautiful archipelago and see icebreaking in action Huh.
In the summer, visitors can hike near Kemihara Falls and view beautiful arctic flora, or take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Gulf of Bothnia. Kemi is a great destination for those who want to experience Finland’s unique arctic culture and wilderness.
10. Finnish Lakeland
The Finnish Lakeland, also known as the “Lake District” of Finland, is a region located in the southern part of the country and is considered one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who love nature and outdoor activities. is believed. The region is characterized by its thousands of interconnected lakes and islands, which provide a vast range of recreational opportunities.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking in the summer and cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling in the winter. The Finnish Lakeland is also home to a number of towns and villages, where visitors can explore local culture and sample delicious local food.
The region is also home to several national parks, such as the beautiful and serene Lake Saimaa and the wild and rugged Repovesi National Park, where visitors can experience the unspoiled nature and diverse wildlife of the Finnish wilderness. Finnish Lakeland is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Finnish wilderness.
11. Ylläs
Ylläs, located in the Lapland region of Finland, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and is considered one of the best places to visit in Finland. With its 7 slopes and 30 ski lifts, Ylläs offers a wide range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels.
Visitors can also enjoy other winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice-fishing, and reindeer and dog-sledding. The area is also home to Aurora Village, dedicated to viewing the northern lights. So it is also one of the best places in Finland to see northern lights. In summer, visitors can hike the vast network of trails in the surrounding hills and valleys and enjoy the midnight sun.
Ylläs is a great destination for those looking to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Lapland. With its many outdoor activities, the area offers something for everyone from families to thrill seekers.
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12. Kuopio
Kuopio, located in the eastern part of Finland, is a city known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is considered as one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who appreciate art, music and Finnish culture.
Kuopio is a city located in the region of Northern Savonia in Finland. It is known for its beautiful lake views and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kuopio include the Kuopio Market Square, St. Nikolaos Cathedral, and Puijo Tower.
Additionally, the nearby Kallawesi Lake is a popular spot for boating and fishing. For those interested in history, both the Kuopio Museum and the Kuopiankartano Manor are worth a visit.
The nearby Natura 2000 protected area, Kanavanranta, is a great place to explore the local flora and fauna. Kuopio is one such destination that offers visitors a mix of culture, nature, and fun, making it one of the best places to visit in Finland.
13. Inari
Inari, located in the Finnish Lapland region, is known for its spectacular natural beauty and rich Sami culture. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who appreciate unspoiled wilderness and traditional Finnish culture.
The area is home to Seida, the Sami Museum, and the Northern Lapland Nature Center, which offer visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the indigenous Sami people. Visitors can also explore the nearby Lemmenjoki National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, such as reindeer, foxes, and wolverines.
Inari is also a great destination for those who want to experience the Northern Lights, as it is best places in Finland to see northern lights. In addition, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing in the winter. With its unique culture, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Inari is certainly one of the best places to visit in Finland.
14. Urho Kekkonen National park
Urho Kekkonen National Park located in Finnish Lapland is one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who appreciate unspoiled wilderness and outdoor activities. Named after the former President of Finland, the park is the largest national park in the country and covers an area of over 2,500 square kilometres.
It is home to a variety of landscapes including forests, streams and rivers, and is home to several species of wildlife, including reindeer, wolverine and lynx. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing in the winter.
The park also offers a variety of nature trails, including the Paarvi Wilderness Trail and the Kulathippu Trail, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty.
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15. Pyha-Luosto National Park
Pyhä-Luosto National Park is one of the best places to visit in Finland for those who appreciate the natural beauty of the country. The park, located in Finnish Lapland, covers an area of more than 200 square kilometers and is home to a variety of landscapes including forests, waterfalls and rivers.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, wolverines, and lynx. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing in the winter.
The park also offers a variety of nature trails, such as the Paiha-Luoston Rieti and the Kultahippu Trail, which provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty.
Experience the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of the best natural phenomena to witness in Finland. The best time to see the lights is during the winter months between September and April, when the nights are longest and the skies are clearest.
The Northern Lights can be seen in many parts of Finland, but the best places to see them are in the northern parts of the country, such as Lapland. Visitors can take a tour or join a guided tour to view the lights, or they can go on their own and try to find a good spot to view them.
Northern lights can be seen in many colors like green, pink, purple and blue. To increase your chances of seeing the lights, it is best to go to a location that is away from city lights and other light pollution. The Northern Lights are one of the most spectacular natural phenomena to see in Finland and a must-see for anyone visiting the country.
FAQ
1. What are the best places in Finland to see northern lights?
- Lapland (Rovaniemi, Inari, Ylläs, Kittilä)
- Finnish Lapland National Park
- Urho Kekkonen National Park
- Pyhä-Luosto National Park
- Kemi
- Kuusamo
- Torassieppi Reindeer Farm
- Levi
- Nellim Wilderness Hotel
- Aurora Village in Saariselkä
2. When is the best time to see the aurora lights?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is usually between September and April, with the peak season being in December and January. However, sightings can never be guaranteed, as they depend on solar activity and weather conditions.
3. What are the unique things to do in Finland?
- Visit the Center for Sami Culture in Inari to learn about the indigenous people of Finland and their traditional way of life.
- Take a dip in a traditional Finnish sauna and cool off by rolling in the snow or jumping into an icy lake.
- Explore Koli National Park, known for its picturesque landscapes and hiking trails.
- Go dog sledding in Lapland, an exciting way to experience the arctic wilderness.
- Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi and meet Santa himself.
- Take a snowmobile safari to spot reindeer and the Northern Lights.
- Visit the Aalto Design Factory, a unique innovation center where students and companies collaborate on design projects.
- Try ice fishing on one of Finland’s many frozen lakes.
- Take a scenic train ride on the Santa Express or the Arctic Express, which take you through the beautiful winter landscapes of Finland.
- Take a cruise on the Archipelago Sea, a region of Finland known for its thousands of islands and picturesque coastal towns.
4. What’s the best way to experience a Finnish sauna?
The traditional Finnish sauna experience can be enjoyed in a public sauna or by renting a private sauna. It is also possible to book a sauna on a lake or in a hotel.
5. How do I get around Finland?
Finland has an efficient public transport system including buses, trains and flights. Renting a car or taking a tour is also a popular option.
6. Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in the south of Finland?
The Northern Lights are usually visible in the northern parts of Finland, but they can also be seen in the south on rare occasions.
7. What are the best outdoor activities to do in Finland?
Some popular outdoor activities in Finland include skiing, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, and ice fishing.
8. What are the best places to stay in Finland?
Some popular places to stay in Finland include traditional Finnish cottages, glass igloos, and luxury resorts.
Conclusion
Finland is a country with abundant natural beauty and unique experiences to offer. With this guide, you’ll be able to discover the best places to visit in Finland in 2023.
Due to its combination of natural beauty, unique culture and traditions, and innovative design and technology, Finland is often cited as one of the best places to visit in Europe. From witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring the wonders of winter, your trip to Finland is sure to be one to remember. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best places to visit in Finland.
For those looking to expand their Scandinavian adventure, consider adding Norway to your trip to Finland. With its stunning fjords, picturesque mountains and charming cities, Norway is unique enough to add to your itinerary offers a wealth of experiences.
From the famous cities of Oslo and Bergen, to the breathtaking natural beauty of the fjords, there are so many best places to visit in Norway. For a more comprehensive and truly unforgettable experience consider traveling to this neighboring country. Consider getting involved.