Known for its breathtaking landscapes, thick forests, Northern Lights and, vast areas of unspoiled wilderness I can never get enough of this mysterious and intriguing country. From jaw-dropping Finnish Lapland to funky, design-loving Helsinki, here are my favourite places I’d love to share with you…
1. Helsinki
The Finnish capital was such a unique city! I also thought it was strikingly beautiful with an eclectic mix of neoclassical, Art Deco and modern architecture, designer restaurants, lively bars, creative cafes, beautiful boutiques, and art galleries all set against a backdrop of lush green parks and the expansive Baltic Sea.
It was also a compact place with a relaxed yet vibrant vibe. As well as its stylish eye for design, I also loved its quirks and eccentricities – I saw locals casually walking across the frozen sea during mid-winter, long rows of busy retro-looking heavy metal bars, and the super-cute Moomin cafe!
It was also a very progressive place with a flourishing vegan scene, a strong commitment to being as green and sustainable as they can and a welcoming friendliness!
It’s located in southern Finland on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, which is part of the Baltic Sea. Founded in 1550, it became the capital in 1812 and is now home to around 650,000 people.
I spent a fun four days here and explored the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, strolled through the picturesque Esplanadi Park, visited the impressive Helsinki and Uspenski Cathedrals, discovered contemporary Finnish art at Kiasma, gazed at the unique Temppeliaukio Church (aka the rock church), enjoyed a traditional Finnish sauna at Löyly, strolled along the Katajanokka district (the Art Nouveau residential district), photographed the Sibelius monument and sampled seriously tasty local cuisine at the bustling Old Market Hall.
- Location: South part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (to enjoy the festivals, outdoor cafes, and long sunny days).
- Activities on offer: Sightseeing, visiting museums, exploring art galleries, dining, and shopping.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous Folks Hotel Konepaja – I loved its trendy boutique styling, the exposed red brick walls and high ceilings in my loft room, the onsite Finnish sauna and the cool Smeg refrigerator which doubled as a minibar!
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2. Rovaniemi
This was the capital of Lapland! I thought it was a unique gem, with surreally breathtaking Arctic landscapes dotted with modern architecture and cute cosy houses. It had a magical, adventurous vibe, made even more enchanting by being the official hometown of Santa Claus!
I absolutely loved how it had a magical, adventurous and a very festive atmosphere and how its residents really embraced the legend of Christmas!
It’s located in northern Finland, right on the Arctic Circle, and serves as the administrative capital and commercial centre of Lapland (the country’s most northernmost province). Founded in 1783 it’s now home to population of around 63,000 as well as being a much-loved family tourist destination.
I flew into Rovaniemi Airport and spent an extraordinary four days here. I spent my time visiting Santa Claus Village (and meeting Santa himself!), exploring the Arktikum Museum and learning all about Arctic life, spotting the incredible Northern Lights from a glass igloo, and trying sledging and snowmobiling too!
- Location: North part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Winter (for the Northern Lights and Christmas experiences).
- Activities on offer: Northern Lights viewing, visiting Santa Claus Village, and snowmobiling.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Visiting Santa Claus Village – I loved crossing the white line that ran through the village, marking the Arctic Circle! The super-cute official Santa Claus’ Main Post Office was also awesome and I saw letters arriving from children all over the world and even watched outgoing mail get stamped with a special Arctic Circle postmark.
- The locals telling me about their magical Midnight Sun – this is when the sun never sets in the summer months of June and July!
3. Suomenlinna
This was a historic sea fortress and an UNESCO World Heritage site! I thought it was a gem of a place with an attractive blend of rugged coastal landscapes and historic architecture, including well-preserved fortifications, charming wooden houses, lush green spaces, gorgeous views of the Baltic Sea, a tranquil, laid back vibe and a small community of residents all set against the backdrop of the scenic Helsinki archipelago!
I found it nestled just off the coast of Helsinki accessible via a short ferry ride from the city centre across the Helsinki harbour. Spanning across six islands, it houses about 800 residents and was constructed in 1748 as a maritime fortress and naval base.
I took a 15-minute ferry ride from the Market Square in Helsinki and spent the day there. I explored the sprawling fortress with its massive walls and cannons, visited the interesting Suomenlinna Museum and the Submarine Vesikko and learnt about its military history, strolled along the scenic waterfront paths, enjoyed a picnic on its grassy fields, and browsed local crafts in the quaint shops scattered throughout the islands.
- Location: South part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for walking tours and exploring the fortress in pleasant weather).
- Activities on offer: Exploring the sea fortress, walking tours, visiting museums, and enjoying coastal views.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Being able to see Helsinki’s skyline in the distance – it was great to see how the domed green roof of Helsinki Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko) stood out like a beacon above the city!
4. Arctic Resort Kakslauttanen
This was a very Insta-worthy travel experience! It was a seriously breathtaking spot with unique glass igloos and cosy log cabins nestled in the pristine snowscape of Lapland, where as I guest I could gaze at the Northern Lights from the comfort of my bed!
It felt both serene and magical – like I was sleeping under the stars but still being super cosy and it was a truly spectacular experience to watch the Aurora Borealis shimmer and dance across the sky! I have to admit it wasn’t a cheap stay (prices ranged from €450 to over €800 per night), but it truly was a once in a lifetime experience!
It’s located deep in Finnish Lapland, near the town of Saariselkä, about 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. With a population of around 2,000, it’s part of a sparsely populated region. It served as a important trading post and a gateway to Arctic explorations.
- Location: North part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Winter (for the glass igloos and Northern Lights views).
- Activities on offer: Northern Lights viewing, staying in glass igloos, sledging, and snowshoeing.
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- The whole experience! It was especially very fun though to try out the world’s largest smoke sauna there where I experienced a traditional Finnish sauna ritual involved being gently tapped the body with a vihta (birch branch bundle) to boost circulation and then ending with a very refreshing dip in an ice hole!
5. Nuuksio National Park
This was a nature lover’s dream! I discovered this protected area was a gem of a place with tranquil forests, clear sparkling lakes, green rolling hills and miles of well-marked hiking trails. I really enjoyed the serene and untouched wilderness vibe which made me feel really immersed in nature!
It’s located in the southern part of the country, near the city of Espoo, just about 30 kilometres northwest of Helsinki. Established in 1994 to preserve the diverse Espoo region ecosystem and it spans around 55 square kilometres.
I drove here from Helsinki which took 30 minutes and when here I hiked along well-marked trails such as the Haukankierros Trail, canoed on the serene Lake Haukkalampi (there were canoe rentals located there!), spotted rare woodland birds and flying squirrels, participated in guided nature walks, stayed overnight in a cosy traditional Finnish huts (there was also designated camping areas), and exploring the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia, which had interesting interactive exhibitions.
- Location: South part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and cycling.
- Accommodation: Nuuksio Hostel, Haltia Lake Lodge, and nearby camping sites.
- Map Location and Directions
- Nuuksio National Park Website
My favourite highlights…
- Hiking the 4 km Haukankierros Trail (Hawk Trail) which took me two hours to complete and took me through peaceful pine and birch forests and scenic views of the Haukkalampi Lake. I especially loved seeing the small cave-like crevices, which the nature centre guide told me were once used as natural shelters by early inhabitants!
6. Porvoo
This is Finland’s second oldest town! I thought it was very pretty with a picturesque riverside setting adorned with colourful old wooden houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a handful of striking historical landmarks.
To me, it felt quaint and artistic, filled with a sense of history and a lively cultural charm that flowed from its antique shops, local galleries, riverside restaurants and cosy cafés lining its old streets.
I found it nestled along the Porvoo River in the southern part of the country, a 50 minute drive from Helsinki. As one of only six remaining medieval towns, it was first know about in the 14th century. Today, with a population of around 50,000, it’s famous for its well-preserved wooden houses and rich cultural heritage.
I drove here on a day trip from Helsinki which took 50 minutes. After I arrived I explored the very attractive Old Town with its colourful wooden houses, visited the medieval Porvoo Cathedral, strolled along the riverfront, enjoyed unique shops and local crafts at the Brunberg Chocolate Factory, dined in charming cafes, and took scenic photographs from the old railway bridge for (where there were stunning views of the gorgeous city)!
- Location: South part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (to explore the historic town and enjoy the riverside atmosphere).
- Activities on offer: Sightseeing, visiting historic sites, shopping in local boutiques, and riverside dining.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Dining at SicaPelle Restaurant – I loved the very intimate dimly lit bistro setting (there were only five tables!), the trendy but romantic vibe which was perfect for couples on a date night and my pumpkin bowl dish which came with tofu, miso, ginger!
7. Lake Saimaa
This is Finland’s largest lake! I discovered it was also a gorgeous beauty spot with vast, clear shimmering waters dotted with forested islands, charming lakeside cottages, sandy and rocky beaches, and picturesque wooden saunas that blended seamlessly into the unspoiled Finnish wilderness! I was totally taken with how peaceful and rejuvenating it felt here – it was a perfect escape into nature!
Located in the southeastern part of the country, it spanned multiple regions including South Karelia and South Savo and covers around 4,400 square kilometres. It was formed after the last Ice Age, has been a vital waterway for trade and travel for centuries, and is surrounded by small towns and villages.
I drove three hours from Helsinki and stayed for a week in the summer, it wasn’t overly crowded with tourists, but there were other visitors here. I cruised through its scenic waterways on a boat tour, explored Linnansaari and Kolovesi National Parks and spotted the rare Saimaa ringed seal in a wow-inducing moment, relaxed in traditional lakeside saunas, swam from sandy beaches, visited the medieval Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, and enjoyed kayaking, hiking and island hopping across its vast, unspoiled waters!
- Location: Southeast part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for boat tours and seeing the Saimaa Ringed Seal).
- Activities on offer: Boat tours, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Hiking the very scenic 7km Linnansaari National Park Hiking Trail which took me three hours to complete taking me past Lake Saimaa and its archipelago as well as old-growth forests and rocky cliffs. I loved stumbling across the secluded fire-pit and lean-to shelter used by weary hikers and finding the ‘echo cliff’ (located near Linnavuori Hill) where I shouted and my voice bounced back perfectly across the water – like nature’s own speaker system!
8. Oulanka National Park
I was completely wowed by this very special place! It was an extraordinarily beautiful and unspoiled spot with dramatic landscapes of rushing rivers, deep canyons, dense boreal forests, sprawling lakes, rustic wilderness huts and suspension bridges. During the winter (when I visited!) it turned into a frozen magical wilderness with temperatures dropping from around -10°C to a very biting -30°C.
To me, it felt like a wild and adventurous escape, immersing me in untouched nature far removed from modern life – truly remote and liberating!
It was located in northeastern Finland, near the Russian border, and spanned the regions of Lapland and Northern Ostrobothnia, with its main entrance near the town of Kuusamo. The park was established in 1956 and covered around 270 square kilometres.
I flew into Kuusamo Airport and then it was a 50 km bus ride which felt like we were driving deep in the heart of the snowy wilderness. I stayed a week at the rustic eco-lodge Basecamp Oulanka and we hiked the locally famous Karhunkierros Trail on snowshoes, admired the frozen Kiutaköngäs Rapids, went cross-country skiing through silent snow-covered forests, spotted wild reindeer, learnt how to build a quinzee, stayed in cosy wilderness huts, and then experienced the Insta-worthy magic of the Northern Lights over the pristine Arctic landscape (my photo above)!
In summer, I was told by the local guides that visitors came to hike the Karhunkierros Trail, go canoeing or kayaking on the Kitka and Oulanka Rivers and explore the park’s scenic viewpoints and waterfalls.
- Location: Northeast part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Winter (for Northern Lights and snow-covered landscapes).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing, and river rafting.
- Accommodation: Basecamp Oulanka, Oulanka Wilderness Camp, and nearby cabins.
- Map Location and Directions
My highlights…
- Going for a very refreshing evening dip in the large outdoor hot tub in Basecamp Oulanka and tasting the delicious homemade cloudberry liquors at their onsite bar! We were told by the staff that they picked the golden-orange berries locally in the park during the summer months and they were considered a rare Arctic delicacy!
9. Turku Archipelago
I thought this was a wonderful hidden gem! The proud locals told me they thought it one of the most breathtaking places in the world, and I could totally see why, it was a landscape of lush green islands set in clear, sparkling waters and dotted with quaint wooden cottages, historic lighthouses, picturesque harbours, and pristine sandy beaches.
I was completely charmed by the peaceful, slow-paced vibe and the distinct character of each island, which, together, forged a tight-knit community. It was the mix of individuality and communal spirit made the place feel very unique and special!
Located off the southwestern coast of the country, it stretched from the city of Turku and extended toward the Åland Islands in the Baltic Sea. It consisted of over 20,000 islands and they’ve have been a key part of Finland’s maritime history since the medieval era. They’re home to around 40,000 residents but they also attract thousands of tourists each year.
I flew into Turku Airport from Helsinki, then drove to the archipelago staying for a very relaxing week. Traveling around the islands was so easy with the network of ferries, there was no need to rent a car I just rented a bicycle instead.
I went on a boat trip, kayaked between the islands, cycled along the scenic Archipelago Trail, explored the medieval Turku Castle, visited the charming seaside town of Naantali which was home to the quirky and fun family-friendly Moomin World, hiked the Archipelago National Park, relaxed on the beaches of Pargas, and enjoy local cuisine in picturesque waterfront restaurants.
- Location: Southwest part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for island hopping and cycling through the islands).
- Activities on offer: Island hopping, cycling, sailing, and kayaking.
- Accommodation: Archipelago Inn, Saaristohotelli Vaihela, and island cottages.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous 4-star Hotel Nestor & Restaurant Back Pocket – I loved how the hotel was owned by artist Pia Rousku and designer Frank Hellgren and housed in a renovated barn, its trendy decor, private beach access and the unique sensory trail which was designed to be walked barefoot!
10. Utsjoki
This remote village was located near the Arctic Circle! I thought it was breathtaking with pristine Arctic landscapes, areas of vast untouched wilderness, rolling hills and the meandering Teno River dotted with traditional Sámi wooden houses. The peaceful, remote setting and the solitude it offered made me feel deeply connected with nature, far removed from the bustle of everyday life.
It was tucked away in the far northern part of the country, in the Lapland region, near the border with Norway, and is the northernmost municipality in Finland, located along the Teno River. It has a population of around 1,200, has a rich Sámi cultural heritage and it great for Northern Light spotting, so it attracts around a few thousand visitors annually.
To get there, I flew into Ivalo Airport and then it was a 160 km bus ride away which took three hours. I stayed for four days and snow-shoed through snowy forests, went cross-country skiing in the surrounding hills, spotted the magical Northern Lights, visited traditional Sámi villages, learnt about the local people in the Utsjoki Sámi Museum and explored the snowy trails in the Kevo Strict Nature Reserve.
- Location: North part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Winter (for the Northern Lights and Sámi culture).
- Activities on offer: Northern Lights viewing, hiking, learning about Sámi culture, and fishing.
- Accommodation: Utsjoki Aurora Holidays, Holiday Village Valle, and riverside cabins.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Taking the 6km trail to the summit of Ailigas Hill, also known as the “Saami’s Holy Mountain” which took me two hours to complete – it was awesome to see the panoramic views of the Utsjoki River Valley and the expansive tundra.
11. Naantali
This was a very pretty resort town filled with Finnish culture! I found it incredibly attractive, with colourful wooden houses nestled in the historic old town, a serene harbour lined with cosy cafés and boutiques, and a handful of peaceful sandy beaches.
The picturesque waterfront along the archipelago, lush gardens, and the stunning backdrop of the Baltic Sea further added to its allure. I was also won over by the slow pace of life, unique old-world atmosphere and small seaside town charm!
Located in the southwestern part of the country, on the coast of the Baltic Sea, just 15 kilometres west of Turku Naantali, it was founded in the 14th century, and now has a population of around 20,000. Festivals such as the Naantali Music Festival take place every June from the 6th to the 17th and they attract visitors from around the globe.
I travelled here ferry from a nearby island of Väski Island and stayed for two days. When here, I explored the charming cobblestone streets of the old town, enjoyed the peaceful harbour area which had lots of interesting cafés and boutiques, visited the elegant Kultaranta Palace and Gardens which were built in the late 19th century, visited the wonderfully whimsical family-friendly Moomin World theme park, took a stroll along the beautiful seafront, discovered the historic Naantali Church and the nearby upscale Naantali Spa.
- Location: Southwest part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for festivals, waterfront views, and exploring the Old Town).
- Activities on offer: Exploring the Old Town, visiting Moominworld, enjoying waterfront views, and attending festivals.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Going for a unique full body massage at the chic Naantali Spa the which used local seawater and molecular technology. I also loved the large atmospheric swimming pool!
12. Mariehamn
I thought this was a delightful gem! It’s the capital of the gorgeous Åland Islands and I thought this place was so dreamy with its beautiful for its serene waterfront, traditional wooden houses, pretty harbour, sandy beaches like Slemmern Beach. I also loved its relaxed, slow pace and the quaint, maritime charm that permeated the area.
It’s the capital of the Åland Islands, a cool little autonomous spot right in the Baltic Sea, tucked between Finland and Sweden. With a population of around 11,000, it boasts a long maritime history, having been a key port and centre of trade for the archipelago since its establishment in 1861.
I caught a ferry from the nearby island of Föglö and spent a peaceful three days here. I explored the charming harbour with its historic wooden houses, visited the interesting Åland Maritime Museum and the Museum Ship Pommern, strolled through the picturesque Jungfruheten Park, relaxed on the sandy shores of Slemmern Beach, enjoyed local delicacies at waterfront cafés, browed the cute quaint shops and cafes on Torggatan (which was the main pedestrian street in the centre) and took a boat tour of the surrounding archipelago.
I loved how easy it was to explore this charming shipping town on foot after catching a ferry here. I could stroll from one end to the other without ever needing a car and just gaze at its charming scenery and picturesque streets!
- Location: Southwest part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for pleasant weather and exploring the Åland Islands by foot or bike).
- Activities on offer: Sightseeing, cycling, visiting museums, and exploring the Åland Islands.
- Accommodation: Hotel Arkipelag, Park Alandia Hotel, and cozy guesthouses.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Trekking up to Badhusberg a small hill and scenic viewpoint – I loved being able to see panoramic views of the pastel-coloured buildings, the shimmering blue waters of the Åland archipelago and even the iconic masts of the Pommern museum ship!
13. Saariselka
This remote resort village was a great place to watch the Northern Lights! I also discovered a stunning spot with pristine Arctic landscapes of snow-covered hills and forests dotted with cosy wooden cabins and chalets. It had an unearthly tranquil wilderness where I felt very far away from the hassles and pace of modern life!
It was located in the far north of the country, in the Lapland region, about 250 kilometres above the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best places in Finland to experience the Arctic wilderness, winter sports, and the Northern Lights. It was established as a tourist resort in the 1970s and has a population of around 300.
I flew into Ivalo Airport and then a shuttle bus took us to the village which was 28 kilometres away and I stayed for a wonderful three days. I went skiing at the Saariselkä Ski Resort, took a fun snowmobile safari through snowy forests, experienced the magic of the Northern Lights, snow-showed through the pristine Urho Kekkonen National Park, relaxed in traditional Finnish saunas, and explored nearby Inari, an interesting little town which was rich in Sámi culture and history.
- Location: North part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Winter (for the Northern Lights and winter sports).
- Activities on offer: Northern Lights viewing, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobile safaris.
- Accommodation: Northern Lights Village, Star Arctic Hotel, and holiday cottages.
- Map Location and Directions
My favourite highlights…
- Trying the tasty delicacies local of Sienikeitto (Wild Mushroom Soup) which was made with hand-picked local chanterelle mushrooms and herbs and the hearty ‘Puolukka Vispipuuro’ was was Whipped Lingonberry Porridge made with locally-picked berries and semolina.
14. Repovesi National Park
This was an unspoilt and very scenic nature reserve! I thought it was gorgeous tucked away gem where I discovered rugged landscapes, thick forests, clear mirror-like lakes, interesting wildlife and lots outdoor adventures! It was a genuine tranquil escape into nature where I could just hear the sounds of birdsong and flowing water and not much else!
It’s located in the southern part of the country, around 130 kilometres northeast of Helsinki, in the Kymenlaakso region, near the towns of Kouvola and Mikkeli. It was once a site for intensive commercial forestry but it was successfully transformed into a protected area in 2003 and spans around 15,000 hectares.
I took a two hour drive from Helsinki during the summer and when here, I hiked scenic Ketunlenkki and Harju Trails, experienced the breathtaking views from Olhavansalmi, kayaked on the park’s pristine lakes, crossed the famous Lapinsalmi Suspension Bridge, and stopped by the cosy Metsästäjä’s Lodge.
- Location: Southeast part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking, canoeing, and exploring the wilderness).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, canoeing, rock climbing, and wildlife watching.
- Accommodation: Tentsile Experience EcoCamp, Repovesi National Park cabins, and nearby lodges.
- Map Location and Directions
- Repovesi National Park
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the very Insta-worthy Jávri Lodge – I loved its jaw-dropping contemporary design, finding out from the staff it was originally built as the official residence of Finland’s former President Urho Kekkonen, the cool industrial-chic interiors and its intimate, personalised service (there were only 13 rooms)!
15. Lake Pielinen
This large, scenic lake was wow-inducing! I found vast, clear waters surrounded by dense green forests and islands, dotted sandy beaches perfect for swimming, and charming lakeside cottages and traditional wooden buildings. I loved how it felt like a nature-filled retreat with a zen-like, idyllic atmosphere.
Located in the eastern part of the country, mostly in the North Karelia region, Lake Pielinen is the fourth-largest lake in Finland. It’s surrounded by scenic landscapes and lush forests, with the town of Lieksa nearby, home to about 20,000 people. The area has a long history of fishing and forestry.
I flew into Joensuu Airport and from there it was 90 km away which took two hours and I stayed for five days just kicking back and enjoying the nature!
I also squeezed in a scenic boat tours to explore its picturesque islands, hiked the nearby Koli National Park which had stunning panoramic views, visited the interesting Koli Nature Centre, went kayaking on the lake’s serene waters, relaxed on the sandy Pielinen Beach, and learnt about traditional Finnish culture at the Pielinen Museum in Lieksa.
- Location: East part of the country.
- Best time to visit: Summer (for hiking and cycling with beautiful lake views).
- Activities on offer: Hiking, cycling and boating.
- Accommodation: Break Sokos Hotel Koli, Pielinen cottages, and lakeside guesthouses.
- Map Location and Directions
My personal highlights…
- Hiking the 3.5 km Koli Peaks Trail (Huippujen Kierros) which took me two hours to complete and started and ended at Ukko-Koli Nature Centre. My favourite parts were arriving at the viewpoint the Ukko-Koli which was the highest peak in the park where I saw a spectacular panoramic view over Lake Pielinen (one of Finland’s largest lakes)!
