Finland is a beautiful Nordic country known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, the Northern Lights, and unique cultural heritage. Here are the top 20 tourist destinations in Finland that you should explore:
1. Helsinki
The capital city of Finland, Helsinki, is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural scene. Key attractions include Suomenlinna Fortress, Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, and the Design District.
2. Rovaniemi & Santa Claus Village
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers magical experiences year-round. Santa Claus Village, the Arctic Circle, and Arktikum Museum are must-visit spots.
3. Lapland & Northern Lights
Lapland is a winter wonderland famous for its reindeer safaris, husky sledding, and the Northern Lights. The best places to see the Aurora Borealis include Levi, Saariselkä, and Inari.
4. Suomenlinna Fortress
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna is a sea fortress built on six islands near Helsinki. It’s perfect for a day trip filled with history and scenic walks.
5. Turku & Turku Castle
Turku, Finland’s oldest city, is rich in history with its medieval Turku Castle, the Aura River, and the Forum Marinum Maritime Museum.
6. Porvoo
One of Finland’s most picturesque towns, Porvoo features charming red wooden houses, cobbled streets, and the 13th-century Porvoo Cathedral.
7. Lake Saimaa & Savonlinna
Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest lake, is a paradise for nature lovers. Savonlinna, a lakeside town, is home to the impressive Olavinlinna Castle and the world-famous Savonlinna Opera Festival.
8. Koli National Park
Located in eastern Finland, Koli National Park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and the iconic view from Ukko-Koli Hill.
9. Levi Ski Resort
One of Finland’s top ski destinations, Levi in Lapland is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports. It’s also a great place for spotting the Northern Lights.
10. Åland Islands
An autonomous archipelago between Finland and Sweden, the Åland Islands are perfect for cycling, kayaking, and exploring maritime history at the Åland Maritime Museum.
11. Oulu
A charming northern city, Oulu is known for its tech scene, cultural festivals, and the beautiful Nallikari Beach. It’s also a gateway to the Arctic.
12. Pyhä-Luosto National Park
A stunning national park in Lapland, Pyhä-Luosto offers majestic fells, deep gorges, and the Amethyst Mine, where visitors can dig for real amethysts.
13. Tampere
Often called Finland’s "Manchester" due to its industrial past, Tampere is famous for its Moomin Museum, Särkänniemi Amusement Park, and stunning lakeside scenery.
14. Hanko
Finland’s sunniest town, Hanko, is known for its beaches, sailing culture, and 19th-century wooden villas. A great summer destination!
15. Ranua Wildlife Park
Located near Rovaniemi, this wildlife park is home to Arctic animals like polar bears, lynxes, and reindeer. A great family-friendly attraction.
16. Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
Located on an island near Helsinki, this museum showcases traditional Finnish wooden houses, farms, and churches from different regions of Finland.
17. Repovesi National Park
An adventure lover’s paradise, Repovesi offers stunning landscapes, suspension bridges, and amazing hiking trails.
18. Kuopio & Puijo Tower
Kuopio is famous for the Puijo Tower, offering panoramic views, and the Kalakukko fish pies. It’s also a gateway to Lake Kallavesi.
19. Ylläs & Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
One of Finland’s top outdoor destinations, Ylläs is ideal for hiking, skiing, and seeing the Northern Lights.
20. Nuuksio National Park
Located near Helsinki, Nuuksio is a fantastic place for hiking, camping, and spotting the endangered Siberian flying squirrel.