Best Things To Do In Finland This Year

Finland’s breathtaking natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and seasonal contrasts make it an unforgettable destination this year. From witnessing the northern lights in Lapland to experiencing the midnight sun in summer, every season offers something extraordinary. The country’s vibrant cities blend modern design with rich traditions, while its vast wilderness provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether it’s relaxing in a traditional sauna, exploring the stunning archipelago, or indulging in Nordic cuisine, Finland caters to every traveler. With a rising focus on sustainability and off-the-beaten-path experiences, now is the perfect time to explore its wonders. Keep reading for more.

Sleep Under the Northern Lights in a Glass Igloo in Finnish Lapland

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Winter nights in Finnish Lapland offer an unforgettable experience—watching the aurora borealis dance across the sky from a glass igloo. Located in remote Arctic resorts, these heated igloos provide unobstructed views of the celestial spectacle while ensuring warmth and comfort. Away from light pollution, spots like Saariselkä and Levi offer some of the best vantage points for northern lights sightings. The igloos feature thermal glass to prevent frost buildup, allowing clear views all night. Many resorts offer cozy amenities like private saunas, fur-lined bedding, and even midnight wake-up calls when the auroras appear. The experience combines adventure and tranquility, making it a bucket-list activity for travelers seeking nature’s most mesmerizing light show. Winter months from September to March provide the best viewing conditions. Along with the spectacle, guests can enjoy husky sledding, snowshoeing, and reindeer safaris, making it a truly magical Arctic getaway.

Sail Through the Floating Ice on an Icebreaker Cruise in Kemi

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Aboard an icebreaker ship, travelers witness the raw power of engineering as it crushes through the frozen Gulf of Bothnia. Kemi’s renowned Sampo Icebreaker offers an up-close encounter with Arctic waters, where thick sea ice cracks beneath the vessel’s reinforced hull. Passengers can explore the ship’s control room, engine deck, and observation areas while learning about its past as a working icebreaker. The most thrilling part of the journey is the chance to walk on the frozen sea and even float in the icy waters—equipped with a survival suit designed for Arctic conditions. The cruise provides a rare glimpse into Finland’s maritime history and the extreme nature of the north. Operating from December to April, the voyage offers a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience. After the excursion, visitors can warm up with a traditional Finnish meal and explore nearby attractions like Kemi’s SnowCastle.

Walk the Sky-High Suspension Bridge Over Oulanka National Park

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Oulanka National Park’s rugged wilderness is home to one of Finland’s most breathtaking hiking experiences—a suspension bridge soaring over the roaring rapids of the Oulanka River. Located along the famous Karhunkierros Trail, the bridge sways high above the rushing waters, offering panoramic views of the dense pine forests and dramatic cliffs. The park’s well-marked trails lead visitors through pristine Arctic nature, where encounters with reindeer, lynx, and rare bird species are common. Depending on the season, the landscape transforms from lush greenery in summer to a frost-covered wonderland in winter. Autumn brings an explosion of fiery colors, making it an ideal time for photography. The bridge itself is a highlight for thrill-seekers, providing a heart-racing yet accessible adventure. Hikers can extend their journey to explore waterfalls, wooden cabins, and the park’s untouched wilderness, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.

Relax in a Floating Sauna on Helsinki’s Waterfront

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Finnish sauna culture reaches new heights with floating saunas dotting Helsinki’s waterfront. These modern, wood-fired sanctuaries drift peacefully on the Baltic Sea, combining tradition with a unique urban escape. Guests can alternate between the sauna’s enveloping heat and refreshing dips in the cold seawater—a practice known as avantouinti, believed to boost circulation and well-being. Löyly, one of Helsinki’s most famous floating saunas, offers a stylish design with panoramic sea views, while smaller private saunas provide a more intimate experience. The rhythmic cycle of sweating and cold immersion mirrors Finland’s deep-rooted sauna rituals. As the sun sets, the glowing city skyline adds to the ambiance, making it an unforgettable way to unwind. Whether in winter with snowflakes falling or summer under the midnight sun, Helsinki’s floating saunas provide an authentic and rejuvenating Finnish experience.

Discover the Abandoned Snowcastle in Rovaniemi Before It Melts

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Each winter, the SnowCastle in Rovaniemi emerges as a stunning architectural wonder, sculpted entirely from ice and snow. However, by spring, it disappears, leaving only memories behind. Unlike permanent ice hotels, this seasonal structure is rebuilt annually with intricate snow-carved walls, crystalline ice sculptures, and illuminated tunnels. Visitors can explore frozen dining halls, throne rooms, and even an ice chapel before warmer temperatures cause the castle to melt away. Since each year’s design is unique, no two visits are the same. The experience is fleeting, making it a must-see attraction for those traveling to Finnish Lapland during the winter months. Paired with northern lights tours, husky rides, and reindeer encounters, a visit to the SnowCastle offers a surreal, fairytale-like adventure. Timed visits ensure guests witness the structure before nature reclaims it, reinforcing the magic of Finland’s ephemeral winter beauty.

Visit the Quirky Wooden Village of Fiskars, Finland’s Design Hub

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Hidden within Finland’s lush forests, Fiskars offers a glimpse into the country’s rich design heritage. Once an ironworks settlement, this historic village has transformed into a creative hub where artisans, designers, and craftsmen showcase their work. Cobbled streets lined with wooden houses lead visitors to boutique galleries, glassblowing studios, and pottery workshops, reflecting Finland’s deep-rooted craftsmanship. Fiskars Brewery and local chocolate shops add a culinary twist to the experience, making it a perfect destination for both art lovers and food enthusiasts. The village hosts design festivals, summer markets, and open studio events, drawing creatives from across Scandinavia. Surrounded by serene lakes and nature trails, Fiskars offers a blend of cultural immersion and outdoor relaxation. Just an hour’s drive from Helsinki, it’s an ideal day trip for those looking to explore Finland’s artistic side while enjoying the charm of a preserved historical village.

Take a Midnight Sun Hike in the Arctic Circle

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Golden light stretching across the horizon well past midnight sets the stage for an unforgettable hiking experience in the Arctic Circle. During summer, Finnish Lapland enjoys the midnight sun, a natural phenomenon where the sun never sets, allowing outdoor adventures to continue around the clock. Trails in Pyhä-Luosto National Park and Urho Kekkonen National Park lead through untouched wilderness, offering panoramic views of rolling fells, silent pine forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The surreal glow enhances the landscapes, creating a dreamlike atmosphere for hikers. Reindeer herds often roam freely, and the quiet stillness of nature amplifies the experience. While the extended daylight provides more time for exploration, guided hikes ensure visitors make the most of this rare spectacle. Packing layers and insect repellent is recommended, as Arctic summers can bring rapid weather shifts and lively mosquito activity. This otherworldly adventure is a must for nature enthusiasts.

Explore the Underground Temppeliaukio Church, Carved into Solid Rock

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Amid Helsinki’s urban landscape lies a marvel of modern architecture—Temppeliaukio Church, famously carved directly into natural bedrock. Designed in the 1960s, this unique Lutheran church features rugged stone walls that enhance its acoustics, making it a renowned concert venue. A copper dome roof allows natural light to filter through, illuminating the raw rock formations inside. Unlike traditional churches, this subterranean sanctuary blends seamlessly with its surroundings, giving visitors a sense of stepping into an ancient cavern infused with modern design. Tourists and locals alike visit for moments of reflection, while organ performances and choral concerts highlight the building’s exceptional sound quality. Despite its minimalist appearance, the structure’s geological uniqueness makes it one of Helsinki’s top attractions. Located in the Töölö district, the church is easily accessible from the city center and offers a quiet retreat from Helsinki’s bustling streets.

Cycle Through the Archipelago Trail of Turku, Finland’s Most Scenic Route

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Island-hopping takes on a new form along the Archipelago Trail, a cycling route weaving through Finland’s most picturesque coastal landscapes. Starting in Turku, the route covers over 250 kilometers of winding roads, wooden bridges, and ferry crossings that connect idyllic islands. Cyclists pass through charming fishing villages, centuries-old churches, and serene nature reserves, each stop offering a glimpse into Finland’s maritime culture. The journey is as much about the scenery as the experience—cozy cafés and local seafood restaurants provide rest stops along the way. Summer is the best time for this adventure, as ferries operate frequently and daylight lasts longer. Whether tackling the entire loop or opting for a shorter section, the Archipelago Trail offers an immersive way to explore Finland’s coastal beauty. Planning ahead is recommended, as some accommodations and ferry routes require advance reservations during peak travel months.

Walk the Hidden Forest Trails of Nuuksio National Park Just Outside Helsinki

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Dense woodlands, mirror-like lakes, and winding trails make Nuuksio National Park a perfect nature escape just outside Helsinki. This untouched wilderness offers well-marked hiking paths ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, each leading through moss-covered forests, rocky cliffs, and tranquil watersides. Wildlife encounters are common, with Siberian flying squirrels, deer, and native bird species thriving in the park’s protected ecosystem. Visitors can take a break by a lakeside fire pit, where grilling Finnish sausages is a tradition among locals. Unlike busier national parks, Nuuksio’s lesser-known trails provide a peaceful retreat without crowds. Public transport from Helsinki makes access convenient, making it an ideal day trip for those craving nature without venturing far from the city. Whether hiking in summer’s endless daylight or during the crisp golden hues of autumn, Nuuksio offers a refreshing contrast to urban life.

Visit the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum and Feed Wild Squirrels

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Stepping into Seurasaari feels like traveling back in time, where centuries-old wooden buildings showcase Finland’s rural past. Located on a lush island near Helsinki, this open-air museum features traditional farmsteads, thatched-roof cottages, and wooden churches relocated from across the country. While exploring the scenic trails, visitors often encounter curious red squirrels, accustomed to friendly interactions. These small, agile creatures eagerly accept nuts from outstretched hands, making the experience a favorite among nature lovers and photographers. In summer, guided tours bring the history of Finnish country life to life, while winter transforms the landscape into a serene snowy retreat. Wooden bridges connect the island to the mainland, ensuring easy access. Whether admiring the rustic architecture or simply enjoying a peaceful walk surrounded by nature, Seurasaari offers a tranquil escape just minutes from Helsinki’s city center, blending cultural heritage with close encounters with Finland’s wildlife.

Dine in a Traditional Kota Tent and Eat Flame-Grilled Salmon Over Open Fire

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Smoke rising from an open fire signals an authentic Lappish dining experience inside a traditional kota tent. These circular wooden huts, used by the Sámi people, provide warmth and shelter while fresh salmon sizzles over a log-fueled flame. The slow cooking process enhances the fish’s natural flavors, creating a meal deeply rooted in Finland’s culinary heritage. Guests sit around the fire on reindeer hides, savoring the rich, smoky taste of the salmon alongside rustic rye bread and warm berry juice. Some kotas offer additional Lappish delicacies, including reindeer stew and cloudberry desserts. The soft glow of candlelight and the crackling fire create an intimate setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of Arctic adventures. Many locations, particularly in Rovaniemi and Levi, host these immersive dining experiences year-round, allowing travelers to enjoy the cozy atmosphere whether surrounded by deep snow or endless summer light.

Step Inside an Abandoned Soviet Bunker in the Salpa Line

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Buried beneath Finland’s dense forests, the Salpa Line hides a network of abandoned Soviet-era bunkers built during World War II. This formidable defensive structure, stretching over 1,200 kilometers, remains one of Europe’s best-preserved wartime fortifications. Overgrown with moss and partially reclaimed by nature, these concrete shelters offer a haunting glimpse into Finland’s military history. Some bunkers remain open for exploration, with rusting artillery and underground chambers still intact. Guided tours take visitors through narrow tunnels, revealing secret passageways and command posts frozen in time. Near Virolahti, a dedicated museum explains the significance of the Salpa Line and its role in protecting Finland from invasion. The eerie silence and cold, damp air inside the bunkers add to the immersive experience. For history enthusiasts, this hidden wartime relic offers a rare opportunity to walk through an untouched piece of Europe’s 20th-century military past.

Go Ice Floating Under the Stars in the Arctic Wilderness

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Drifting weightlessly in freezing Arctic waters sounds extreme, yet ice floating offers an unexpectedly tranquil experience. Wearing a specialized thermal survival suit, participants slip into an icy lake, completely insulated from the cold, allowing them to relax under the vast northern sky. In Lapland, where light pollution is minimal, the best sessions take place at night when the northern lights might flicker overhead. The contrast between the biting air and the sensation of floating in still water creates a surreal moment of pure stillness. Many guided excursions, particularly around Rovaniemi and Levi, combine ice floating with traditional sauna experiences, ensuring warmth after the plunge. This unique Arctic activity not only calms the mind but also improves circulation, making it both a meditative and exhilarating adventure. As part of a winter escape, ice floating remains one of Finland’s most extraordinary ways to connect with nature.

Stay in a Lighthouse Hotel on a Remote Finnish Island

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Harsh sea winds, endless horizons, and the rhythmic crash of waves define the experience of staying in a remote Finnish lighthouse hotel. Scattered across the Baltic coastline, these historic lighthouses, once guiding ships through treacherous waters, now serve as peaceful retreats for adventurous travelers. Bengtskär, Finland’s tallest lighthouse, offers overnight stays where guests can climb its 252 steps for panoramic sea views. Farther north, the isolated island of Kylmäpihlaja near Rauma provides a more intimate escape, blending rugged nature with modern comforts. Reaching these remote outposts often requires a boat journey, adding to the sense of adventure. Without city lights, the night sky unveils breathtaking constellations, while the untouched shoreline invites exploration. Each morning, the sound of seabirds and salty breeze replace traditional wake-up calls, making lighthouse stays a rare opportunity to experience Finland’s maritime heritage in the most authentic way possible.