Finland

Hello to all Finland enthusiasts! Pronouncing 'hyvääiltapäivää' might be a tongue twister, but embarking on a journey to explore Finland is a breeze. If you've decided to spend your holidays in Finland, let us give you plenty of reasons to fall head over heels for this incredible country. From witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, to immersing yourself in the rich history and meeting friendly locals, a trip to Finland promises unspeakable sightseeing delights.  

For the food lovers, Helsinki offers one of the most vibrant culinary scenes in Europe. Plus, while touring Finland, you might stumble upon Santa Claus's home, fulfilling that childhood dream. The country is also known for being a great place for skiing, and it's the homeland of the beloved Moomins. Touring Finland is all about embracing these unique experiences. Are you ready for an adventure?  

• Capital: Helsinki
• Languages: Finnish, Swedish
• Border countries: Sweden, Norway, Russia
• Population: 5,5 million
• Area: 338,424 sq km
• Time Zone: EET (UTC+2)
• Summer (DST): EEST (UTC+3)
• Climate: Temperate coniferous-mixed forest zone with cold, wet winters
• Currency: Euro
• Government type: Parliamentary Republic
• Country code: FIN  

Some exceptional Finnish dishes to savor during your trip:

• Creamy salmon soup – A magical blend of salmon, leek, and potato, garnished with dill. You'll understand why salmon tastes divine in Finland.
• Kalakukko – If you're a fish lover, this is your perfect choice – a fish pie baked in a thick rye bread crust.
• Mämmi – A traditional Easter porridge with a rich molasses flavor, often served with milk, cream, and sugar. Simple, yet so good!
• Mustamakkara – Sausages made from pork, rye seeds, and pig blood. Sounds unusual, but wait until you try it with famous lingonberry jam – you'll fall in love with it!  

Consider these unique Finnish souvenirs:

• Kuksa: A wooden drinking cup.
• Designs from Marimekko: This Finnish design company is known for its bright and colorful printed fabrics and simple styles.
• Moomin books by Finnish writer Tove Jansson or souvenirs featuring Moomintrolls.
• Unusual glass birds: A traditional Finnish gift, designed by prominent artists like Oiva Toikka, Giorgio Vigna, and Anu Penttinen.
• Sauna essentials: Explore sauna wrap, brushes, thermometers, and linens, as the sauna is a significant part of Finnish life, where family, friends, and even business partners share precious moments.  

Some interesting Finnish habits and beliefs:

• Killing a spider is said to bring rain the next day.
• Leaving an open book upside down is believed to erase the information it contains.
• Certain physical sensations, like a tickling nose, turning red, or a loose thread exceeding your clothes, are thought to indicate someone is thinking of you.
• Finns believe they can predict the future from the froth of coffee.
• A bubble moving toward the drinker signifies more money, while one moving away predicts financial loss.
• Seeing 100 red cars and the license plate of the hundredth car revealing the initial of your future lover.  

The most popular cities:

• Helsinki: Finland's capital, and its most populous city since 1812, is a hub of culture and economy. Helsinki boasts a plethora of restaurants serving local delights, along with numerous museums and a vibrant city life.
• Rovaniemi: The capital of Lapland is a winter wonderland and home to the Finnish Santa. It's a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the Village of Santa Claus.
• Tampere: As the second-most populous city in Finland, Tampere offers picturesque views of Finnish lakes. During winter, it's a paradise for outdoor activities, with ice skating and skiing being popular choices.
• Savonlinna: Located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Savonlinna is a beautiful town, known for the Olavinlinna Castle. It's an ideal destination for a weekend getaway, complete with relaxing spas.
• Turku: As Finland's oldest city, Turku continues to be a popular destination due to its role as an important passenger port. It boasts rich cultural landmarks, interesting museums, and captivating historical architecture.  

Finally, let's highlight the top 5 places to visit in Finland:

• The Fortress of Suomenlinna in Helsinki: A top tourist destination, this fortress, built on six islands near the Finnish capital, can be reached by ferry. Inside, you'll discover historical treasures and perfect spots for picnics.
• Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna: Situated on a small island between two lakes, this castle is a sight of beauty. Explore its beautiful rooms and take a boat cruise around the castle for a complete experience.
• Temppeliaukio Church in Helsinki: Also known as the Rock Church, this architectural wonder is literally built into a rock. Its outstanding acoustics make it a great spot for concerts.
• Lapland: Home to the Finnish Santa, Lapland is a highly recommended destination, especially during December when you can witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
• Lake Saimaa: This incredible natural attraction offers a perfect outdoor exploring experience, especially during the summer. Cozy cottages along the lakeshore make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway and a taste of Finland's nature.  

The best time to visit Finland?

The ideal time for your Finnish adventure depends on your preferences and the duration of your stay. For budget travelers, autumn is the cheapest time to visit. If you're chasing the Northern Lights, December is perfect. And for those seeking milder weather, May and June offer the best conditions for your visit.  

A big thanks to Visit Finland for their engaging video. Watch it as you prepare for your trip.