15 places to visit in Finland

When planning a trip to Finland, don't miss the chance to watch the northern lights in Lapland. This region is known for its unrivaled views of the famous natural phenomenon.

In addition, in Finland, you will travel through vast national parks, beautiful lakes, cities with impressive architecture, and even the home of Santa Claus. Travelandleisure.com has prepared 15 most interesting places to visit in this country.

Adventurous travelers and those who prefer the outdoors to staying at home will feel at home in Finland. The country, called the "Land of a Thousand Lakes", has about 188,000 lakes where you can go ice fishing, swimming, paddleboarding and cruising. Finland is also covered with lush forests and vast wilderness: there are actually 41 national parks, each showcasing the diversity of Finnish landscapes, flora and fauna.

Helsinki

Helsinki is not only the capital of Finland, but also the gateway to discover the rest of the country, especially for international travelers. Like many other European cities, Helsinki combines history with modern art, architecture, and a number of incredible restaurants and cafes. For a rich cultural experience, visit the Kiasma Museum of Modern Art, the Design Museum, and Galerie Forsblom.

Åland Islands

Around 6700 islands make up the Åland archipelago. The autonomous region is ideal for traveling around the islands, which are connected by ferry. You can also travel around the islands by bicycle.

Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the "official hometown of Santa Claus" and the capital of Lapland. Visitors head to the city's Santa Claus Village, where they can meet the man himself all year round, although it is most popular during the holiday season. But if you come to Rovaniemi in the summer, you can experience the midnight sun, a natural phenomenon where the sun does not set.

Tampere

Sauna is central to Finnish culture, and Tampere holds the title of "World Sauna Capital" with the largest number of public saunas (55 or more) in Finland. Those looking to visit a traditional sauna should book a session at Rajaportti, the oldest public sauna in the country that is still in operation.

Nuuksio National Park

Nuuksio National Park is easily accessible from Helsinki, and overnight travelers can reserve a cozy cabin to sleep in after a day of hiking, swimming, or cycling in the park.

Turku

Finland's oldest city and former capital, Turku, should be on every traveler's radar, especially if they are interested in Scandinavian cuisine. It features the 13th-century Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral and the open-air Market Square.

Pozio

Located in Lapland, Pozio is great for "individuals and small groups looking for an authentic experience". The village is also a center of Finnish ceramic culture. Pentik, the northernmost ceramic factory in the world, and the Arctic Ceramic Center call Posio home.

Suomenlinna

You'll find Suomenlinna, an 18th-century naval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a group of islands near Helsinki. Chef Vottonen calls this place "a must-see in the summer" and recommends that travelers "have a picnic, swim in the ocean, or visit the restaurants." Those interested in the history of the naval fortress can learn more at six different on-site museums.

Lake of Finland

The Finnish Lake District is the largest lake area in Europe, and the region has a variety of towns, villages, and bodies of water worth exploring. Here you can get a taste of rural life and enjoy nature.

Ranua Wildlife Park

If you want to see polar bears, lynx, arctic foxes and a wide variety of other Arctic species, head to Ranua Wildlife Park, about an hour's drive south of Rovaniemi. The animals live in enclosures in the middle of a northern coniferous forest, and the park is open all year round.

Porvoo

The old district of Porvoo is known for its traditional red-painted wooden houses along the Porvonjoki River, and its cobblestone streets and original cafes create the perfect picture for both travelers and locals.

Levi

Winter sports enthusiasts will be interested in visiting Levi, the largest ski resort in Finland. Skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, winter hiking and snowshoeing are available in Levi, and it is also a great place to watch the northern lights. The light show can be seen on a clear night, but you can also take a guided tour to get the best views.

Varkaus

Given the access to the surrounding lakes and canals, this is a popular destination for those traveling by water. If you're not exploring the waterways, visitors can stop at the Mechanical Music "Museum", Taipale Canal Museum, or Väinälä Art Center.

Lemmenjoki National Park

The largest of Finland's national parks, Lemmenjoki is known for its natural beauty and history of gold prospecting. To explore the area, visitors can hike, canoe, or board a boat on the Lemmenjoki River.

Fiskar

The village, called the "home of creativity," is the birthplace of Fiskars, a well-known Finnish company that produces products for cooking, gardening and handicrafts, including the world's first scissors with a plastic handle.