Explore Finland: A Week-Long Adventure
Think of Finland and what comes to mind? Moomins, saunas, or Santa, perhaps? Prepare to broaden your horizons on a week-long trip that dives into one of Scandinavia’s quirkiest countries. Whether you’re browsing exquisite art and design in Helsinki, exploring swamps on a berry-picking mission, observing brown bears in their natural habitat, paddling through serene waters in the Lakeland, or witnessing the Northern Lights illuminate the sky against the backdrop of Lappish winter – Finland’s rich offerings can be irresistible.
South: Helsinki – Hip and Historic
If you’re visiting Finland for the first time, starting your journey in Helsinki is recommended, a city that can be explored in two days. With friendly residents, stunning architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere, this Baltic region city is instantly likeable, particularly in summer when outdoor cafes bustle with life. Dedicate your first day to exploring the city center, visiting the neoclassical square Senaatintori, and the Helsinki Cathedral. Consider visiting a gallery or two; impressive frescoes depicting the national epic Kalevala adorn the dome of the National Museum, while contemporary art can be found at the curvaceous Kiasma. Enjoy a coffee and delicious korvapuusti at the nostalgic Café Succès, and taste seasonal dishes at Juuri before unwinding with creative cocktails at the hip speakeasy Liberty or Death (Facebook page).
On your second day, take a 15-minute ferry ride across the water to Suomenlinna, the world’s biggest sea fortress, or explore the vibrant arts scene, trendy cafes, bohemian bars, and vintage shops in the Kallio neighborhood.
Centre: Lakeside Lounging
It’s nearly impossible to look at a map of Finland without noticing its numerous lakes – there are a whopping 187,000 to be precise. The southern and central Lakeland region is defined by its waterways, influencing life much like architecture shapes Manhattan. Many Finns dream of a quaint cottage by a tranquil, forest-rimmed lake, where after an adventurous day of wandering or paddling, they can relax in a wood-fired sauna, enjoy a birch-branch lash, and sip on icy beer.
With just a day or two to explore, choose one destination to immerse yourself in the lakes. Accessible by train from Helsinki, beautiful Savonlinna serves as a connection between islands. The striking 15th-century castle, Olavinlinna, stands proud and is the centerpiece of the world-renowned opera festival in July. Alternatively, if relaxation is your goal, consider summer in Kuopio, further north, with its serene forests and the world’s largest woodsmoke sauna, or fly directly to Tampere, where lakeside charm meets urban innovation. The Moomin Museum is a must-visit for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters, while former factories have transformed into stylish boutiques, museums, and cafes.
If you’re seeking an escape from urban life, consider hiking or kayaking in Linnansaari National Park, where ospreys soar above and endangered Saimaa ringed seals swim in crystal-clear lakes.
East: Embrace the Wilderness
Venturing into Finland is incomplete without stepping foot into one of its expansive, enchanting forests, covering about 76% of the country. Finns adore these natural havens for their abundance of foraged berries (such as cloudberries, lingonberries, and blueberries) in summer and mushrooms in autumn, offering unparalleled tranquility hidden deep in nature.
The east, where Finland meets Russia, is especially captivating with its glass-like lakes, timber cottages, and elusive brown bears amongst the spruce, pine, and birch trees. A day or two in this magical area introduces you to its wonders. Fly into Kajaani to kick off your adventure, where the breathtaking nature is best experienced during midsummer, prime time for the ‘Big Five’ of Europe – brown bears, wolves, wolverines, lynx, and elk. The bear-watching opportunities here are extraordinary. For hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, head to the pristine Koli National Park, renowned for its lush hills and lakes that have mesmerized many Finnish Romantic artists. The nearest airport is Joensuu (www.finavia.fi/en/joensuu).
This remote area is known for hosting some of the world’s most quirky events, such as July’s Swamp Soccer World Championships (suopotkupallo.fi/) in Hyrynsalmi, and the Wife-Carrying World Championships in Sonkajärvi.
West: Experience Finnish Coastline
Finland is also home to one of the world’s largest archipelagos, dotted with lighthouses and boasting around 180,000 islands and islets, inviting those in search of natural beauty. The Finnish people cherish being near the water as much as they love exploring remote forests. Many own wooden summer cottages with saunas, overlooking the Baltic Sea between the west coast and Sweden. Ferries from Stockholm offer access to the culturally rich Turku, Finland’s oldest city and once its capital. Take a day to explore this city, located along the Aura River and featuring the iconic castle and magnificent Gothic cathedral.
If outdoor activities excite you, consider heading north to spend some time in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kvarken Archipelago, where moraine from the last Ice Age emerges from the sea. This beautiful area is ideal for cycling, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with Raippaluoto being the most accessible point linked by Finland’s longest bridge.
North: Winter Wonderland
Imagine the snowfall depicted in that holiday snow globe you once shook as a child; Lapland may just fulfill that wintertime fantasy. While Santa’s official home can be found here, if you’re pressed for time, delve into the remote wilderness filled with soaring fells, frost-laden forests, and the reindeer-herding Sámi people. To truly experience enchantment, visit during the Polar Night (late November to mid-January), when temperatures plummet and the Arctic landscape is cloaked in a serene darkness. This period is perfect for gathering around a flickering fire in a traditional lavvu tent, all while sipping glögi (hot spiced berry juice).
With some luck, you might catch the northern lights in their vibrant display. Known as revontulet, or ‘fox fires’, the phenomenon is steeped in folklore that attributes its creation to a swift Arctic fox running through the snow, scattering sparks into the night sky. Although these lights can be unpredictable, winter boasts the longest nights favorable for viewing, while autumn and spring also increase chances for breathtaking celestial shows. Conversely, summer offers its uniqueness with the Midnight Sun, wild salmon fishing in fast-moving rivers, and hiking through national parks, such as Oulanka.
Considering Lapland’s vastness – which covers one-third of Finland – ensuring you choose your base wisely is essential. Many opt for Rovaniemi, a key transportation hub enriched by the stunning Arktikum, wherein a long glass tunnel houses exhibits showcasing Sámi culture and crafts. Just on the outskirts of the city, you can try your hand at husky sledding, snowmobiling, or spotting the elusive northern lights, and even enjoy rides on reindeer-drawn sleighs.
For those yearning for even deeper seclusion, venture to Utsjoki, situated at the northernmost tip of Finland – its closest airport is Ivalo (www.finavia.fi/en/ivalo). Valle Holiday Village (www.holidayvillagevalle.fi/) and Nuorgam Holiday Village (www.nuorgaminlomakeskus.fi) provide excellent lodging options for a thrilling snowy adventure, featuring exhilarating activities such as snowmobiling, reindeer excursions, as well as night snowshoeing, husky safaris, and ice fishing.
