Finland is where you can find the home of Santa, the Northern Lights, ice castles with beautiful rooms made of ice and snow, wide rivers, natural beauty of lush green islands, and so much more! However, if you’re looking to decide which city you should visit, here are the best cities to explore in Finland.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Ever wonder where Santa Claus makes those gifts to make everyone happy for Christmas? Rovaniemi, Finland is the official address of Santa. He lives in Santa Claus Village, which is open all year round. You can actually send him letters through the Arctic Circle Post Office in this Finnish town. If you’re ready for a festive adventure, you’re welcome to visit him and his crew in Rovaniemi. Moreover, aside from the Santa Claus village, visitors can enjoy skiing, kayaking, river cruising, and many more exciting activities around here.

Rauma, Finland

Imagine old, traditionally built wooden houses lining a historic street, each painted with vibrant colors and carrying a history that often surpasses your own life experiences. That’s the romantic and historic town of Rauma in a nutshell. This charming city in the western part of Finland allows its visitors to escape the busy, fast-paced life we often find ourselves in.

If you’re keen on relishing rich history in well-preserved infrastructures, then the Old Rauma district is perfect for you. Here, you can step back to the 17th century. It is recognized worldwide as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its colorful, old wooden houses. About 600 of these structures are well-preserved, making it the largest collection of wooden infrastructures in Scandinavia.

Saariselka, Finland

This northern village, known for skiing, igloos, and the Northern Lights, lies in the mountainous area of northern Finland. Surrounded by lush green forests, valleys, and waterfalls, Saariselka is a relaxing destination. While it may be cold, its beauty and warm, welcoming people create an inviting atmosphere. Here, visitors can indulge in spas and resorts, but also take advantage of sports and thrilling activities like skiing and hiking. Interestingly, its stunning winter landscape attracts many couples seeking to hold “white weddings” in this enchanting place.

Saariselka is also home to the Kakslauttanen Igloo Village, a unique resort made up of igloos with glass ceilings, allowing guests to gaze at the breathtaking northern lights while they relax. This makes for an unparalleled winter holiday experience, seamlessly merging luxury with nature.

Kemi, Finland

This town is a haven for ice lovers and boasts some of the best snow castles in the world. Located by the Bothnian Bay, Kemi is known for the massive snow castle that is erected each year. The Lumilinna snow castle has been constructed annually since 1996, and each year, a chapel, restaurant, and hotel are created within its icy walls, complete with ice tables, rooms, a bar, and cozy reindeer fur-covered seating. Staying in this castle truly feels like enjoying a lavish vacation in the largest snow building globally, which is a testament to its world-class reputation. Here, you can enjoy delicious local Finnish cuisine in a unique setting, surrounded by stunning views. However, it’s important to note that this experience is exclusive to the winter months.

Kemi also features a gemstone gallery showcasing a replica of the Crown of Finland, which was never originally made. This gallery also houses other notable pieces, such as the Imperial State Crown of Britain and the Sceptre of Czar in Russia.

Savonlinna, Finland

Prepare your heart for Savonlinna, a stunning Finnish city that embodies the essence of love at first sight. Visitors are sure to fall for its beautiful historical structures, captivating lakes, and lush greenery that flourishes throughout most of the year. Nestled in the Southeast part of Finland, Savonlinna, positioned in the middle of Saimaa Lake, offers an almost ethereal experience reminiscent of a fairy tale.

A must-visit location in Savonlinna is the Olavinlinna Castle, an elegant structure perched atop a rocky island. Crafted from solid stone, it appears gray during most days but radiates warmth in the sunlight during late afternoons. This historic site dates back to the 15th century and is best experienced during the annual International Opera Festival held every summer.

There are many more breathtaking cities in Finland, each offering unique experiences and scenery depending on your preferences. Finland’s geographic diversity and rich history make it an intriguing place to visit, not to mention the friendly and hospitable locals. This country, known as Santa’s origin, embraces a culture of giving, making it a delightful destination for any traveler.