Finland Travel Guide 2025

October 21, 2025 6 min read.

For the eighth year in a row, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world. And it’s no coincidence: this beautiful territory in northeastern Europe, together with its Nordic neighbors, is among the safest, most peaceful, educated, and advanced countries on the planet.

Finland is a destination that offers almost everything (except, of course, a tropical experience). Its capital, Helsinki, blends modernity with history and is a paradise for lovers of architecture, design, and culture. Here, a vibrant artistic and cultural scene attracts thousands of visitors each year, with world-class museums, innovative galleries, and an exciting calendar of festivals and events.

But Finland’s charm goes far beyond its capital. The country is famous for its endless forests, crystal-clear lakes, and unique natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun in summer. These experiences, combined with a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, make Finland a destination that captivates travelers in search of pristine nature, peace, and authenticity.

One unmissable highlight is Finnish Lapland, the most magical region of the country. Located north of the Arctic Circle, it offers dreamlike snowy landscapes, husky and reindeer sled safaris, and the chance to sleep in glass igloos beneath the Northern Lights. It is also home to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, a destination that enchants both children and adults.

Things to Do in Finland

Traveling to Finland means discovering a country that combines the best of two worlds: the modernity of its growing cities and the timeless traditions reflected in its people, culture, and nature.

Helsinki:

The capital is a mosaic of design, history, and innovation. Don’t miss:

Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square, symbols of the city.
Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built across several islands.
Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Museum of Finland.
The Old Market Hall, perfect for tasting local specialties like salmon, herring, and pastries.
The Design District, the creative hub showcasing Finland’s design identity.

Finnish Lapland:

Located north of the Arctic Circle, the country’s most magical region.

Turku:

Finland’s former capital and one of its most historic cities, with Turku Castle and a lively cultural scene.

The Lakeland Region:

Famous for its thousands of lakes and endless forests, perfect for hiking, fishing, kayaking, or relaxing in a lakeside cabin with a private sauna.

Tampere:

Once an industrial city, now a cultural hub with museums, parks, and easy access to nearby lakes.

National Parks:

Finland has more than 40 national parks. Notable examples include Nuuksio, near Helsinki, ideal for day hikes, and Koli, with iconic landscapes that have inspired Finnish artists for centuries.

Traveler Tip: Don’t miss the experience of a Finnish sauna: a true cultural ritual and one of the most authentic ways to relax like a local.

What is Lapland

Finnish Lapland lies north of the Arctic Circle and is one of Europe’s most magical destinations. Known for its snowy landscapes, the Northern Lights, and the Midnight Sun, it offers unique experiences such as husky and reindeer sled safaris, overnight stays in glass igloos, and visits to the famous Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. It’s the perfect place both for adventure seekers and families looking for an unforgettable trip.

Finnish Cuisine

Finnish cuisine reflects its close connection with nature: simple, seasonal, and fresh. Though less internationally known than other European cuisines, it surprises with its authenticity and flavors.

Typical dishes to try:

Kalakukko: bread filled with fish and meat.
Karjalanpiirakka: Karelian rice pies, usually served with egg butter.
Lohikeitto: creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill.
Poronkäristys: reindeer stew, a specialty of Lapland.
Korvapuusti: cinnamon rolls, a Finnish coffee-time favorite.

Curious options:

Salmiakki: salty licorice, beloved across Finland.
Kalja: a traditional low-alcohol beer brewed from rye bread.

When to Visit Finland

Summer (June–August): long days with the Midnight Sun, ideal for exploring nature, lakes, and festivals.
Autumn (September–November): colorful fall landscapes, perfect for hiking and photography.
Winter (December–February): the best time for Northern Lights, skiing, and Lapland adventures.
Spring (March–May): melting snow and longer days create unique scenery and milder weather.

Visa and Practical Information

Visa: Citizens of the EU and many Latin American countries can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days).
Currency: Euro (€).
Time zone: UTC+2 (winter), UTC+3 (summer).
Languages: Finnish and Swedish. English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas.
Connectivity: Excellent nationwide; free Wi-Fi in airports, stations, and hotels.
Transport: Excellent train, bus, and ferry networks; domestic flights for longer distances.

Traveler Tip: In winter, dress in layers and wear thermal clothing, as temperatures in the north can drop to –20 °C or lower.

Language in Finland

The official languages are Finnish and Swedish, though many Finns, especially in cities, speak English fluently, making communication easy for travelers.

Tip: Learn a few basic phrases such as Moi (hello) or Kiitos (thank you). Locals always appreciate the effort.

How to Travel to Finland

Main international airports:

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport: the country’s main gateway.
Rovaniemi Airport: Best for Lapland.
Turku and Tampere-Pirkkala Airports: with good European connections.

International connections:

From Europe: direct flights from Madrid, Barcelona, Paris, London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome, and more.
From North America: connections via New York, Chicago, or Toronto.
From Latin America: connections through Europe.
From Asia: direct flights from Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing to Helsinki.

Travel Tips: Combine trains and domestic flights to explore the country. Consider the VR Rail Pass if you plan extensive train travel. In summer, take advantage of ferries to visit Finland’s many islands.

Interesting Facts about Finland

Population: over 5.5 million people and more than 3 million saunas (almost one per resident!).
Around 70% of the territory is forest, making it one of the greenest countries in the world.
In Lapland, the Northern Lights can be seen up to 200 nights a year.
In summer, in the north, the sun doesn’t set for several weeks.
Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus.

Conclusion

Finland is a unique destination that combines modernity, nature, and tradition. From the cultural vitality of Helsinki to the magic of Lapland, from tranquil lakes to the timeless ritual of the sauna, every corner of the country offers something unforgettable.

With its hospitality, safety, and breathtaking landscapes, a trip to Finland is not just a vacation: it’s a transformative experience you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.