10 Best Things to Do In Finland

Planning a trip to Finland? You might be wondering what makes this Nordic country stand out. Maybe you've heard about the Northern Lights, the endless summer days, or the cozy winter cabins—but much more awaits you.

The problem? With so many choices, it’s hard to decide where to start. Whether you're looking for nature, city highlights, or seasonal activities, this list will help you make the most of your visit. From snowy adventures to sauna traditions, Finland has something for every traveler.

Keep reading to discover the top things to add to your itinerary!

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the beautiful Northern Lights, Finland gives you one of the best chances to catch them. Lapland, particularly around Rovaniemi, Levi, and Saariselkä, offers clear, dark skies ideal for viewing the dancing auroras. The best time to visit is between September and April, with peak visibility on cloudless nights away from city lights.

Renting a car makes it easier to drive to remote locations, increasing your chances of seeing the lights. If you're up for an adventure, some hotels offer heated glass igloos where you can watch the sky from the comfort of your bed. Just remember to check the aurora forecast before heading out!

If you’re planning to drive in Finland, remember that an International Driving Permit is required for most car rentals. Roads are well-maintained, but winter conditions can be challenging, so ensure your vehicle is properly equipped.

Starting Point & Driving Route:

• Start from Helsinki and drive north via E75 to Rovaniemi (8-10 hours).
• From Rovaniemi, take E75 further north to Levi or Saariselkä (3-4 hours).
• Consider stopping in Kemi to visit the SnowCastle before continuing your journey.

Pro Tip: Check the aurora forecast and head to remote areas away from artificial light. Some rental cabins offer an alarm system that alerts you when the Northern Lights appear!

Just a ferry ride from Helsinki, Suomenlinna Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many centuries of history. Built in the 18th century, this sea fortress is spread across six islands and is home to old barracks, tunnels, museums, and scenic walking trails. It’s a great spot to spend a few hours learning about Finland’s military past while enjoying views of the Baltic Sea.

While you can’t drive within the fortress itself, you can easily park in Helsinki and take the ferry over. If you're exploring the city by car, plan to visit Suomenlinna as part of your Helsinki itinerary before heading out to other destinations.

Starting Point & Route:

• Helsinki is the best starting point, with ferry rides from Kauppatori Market Square to Suomenlinna (15 min).
• Parking is available near the Helsinki city center before boarding the ferry.

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone paths can be uneven. If you're visiting in winter, be extra cautious, as some areas can get icy.

No matter your age, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a fun and festive destination. Open year-round, this village is where you can meet Santa, send postcards from his official post office, and even cross the Arctic Circle. In winter, you can go on reindeer sleigh rides and enjoy snow-covered landscapes, while summer offers long daylight hours to explore.

Driving to Rovaniemi is easy, with well-maintained roads leading from Helsinki or other Finnish cities. If you’re visiting during winter, be prepared for snowy conditions and make sure your rental car is equipped with winter tires.

For more travel tips, check out our Finland driving guide before your trip.

Starting Point & Route:

• From Helsinki, drive north via E75 to Rovaniemi (8-10 hours).
• If flying, rent a car at Rovaniemi Airport and drive 10 minutes to the village.

Pro Tip: Arrive early in the morning at the site to avoid long queues, especially in December. If you're driving in winter, ensure your car has proper snow tires for safer travel.

If you love nature, Urho Kekkonen National Park in Finnish Lapland offers incredible hiking trails, ranging from short day walks to multi-day treks. The park is known for its vast wilderness, reindeer roaming freely, and peaceful landscapes. The Kiilopää Trail is a great option if you are looking for a moderate hike with rewarding views.

Since the park is remote, renting a car allows you to access different starting points easily. Many parking areas near trailheads make leaving your vehicle while you explore on foot is convenient.

Starting Point & Route:

• From Rovaniemi, drive 3.5 hours via E75 to Saariselkä, the gateway to the park.
• Trailheads and parking areas are available near Kiilopää and Saariselkä ski resort.

Pro Tip: Pack layers and be prepared for unpredictable weather, even in summer. If you're hiking in winter, consider renting snowshoes for better mobility.

A trip to Finland isn’t complete without visiting a sauna. This centuries-old tradition is deeply rooted in Finnish culture, with over 3 million saunas across the country. You’ll find public saunas in cities like Helsinki and Tampere, as well as lakeside saunas in the countryside.

If you rent a cabin or cottage, chances are it will come with its own sauna, allowing you to relax in true Finnish style. After heating up, take a cold dip in a lake or even roll in the snow—just like the locals do. If you’re driving around Finland, look out for traditional smoke saunas in rural areas for a more rustic experience.

Starting Point & Route:

• The Löyly Sauna in Helsinki is a great city option.
• Drive to Tampere, known as the Sauna Capital of the World (2 hours from Helsinki via E12).
• For a lakeside sauna experience, drive to Lake Saimaa (3.5 hours from Helsinki via E75).

Pro Tip: If it’s your first time, start with a moderate temperature and gradually increase the heat. Don’t skip the cold plunge—it’s an essential part of the sauna experience!

Old Rauma is a beautifully preserved historic town and a UNESCO-listed site. Its wooden houses, narrow streets, and artisan shops create a charming setting that feels like stepping back in time. As you stroll through the town, you’ll find craft stores, cozy cafés, and small museums that tell the story of the region’s seafaring past.

Driving here is easy, with plenty of parking areas near the town center. If you’re on a road trip through Finland’s west coast, Old Rauma makes for a perfect stop.

Starting Point & Route:

• From Helsinki, take E18 and Route 8 west to Rauma (3 hours).
• Park outside the historic district and explore on foot.

Pro Tip: Visit during summer to see the town in full bloom, with flowers and open-air cafés. Free parking areas are available just outside the historic district.

The Åland Islands, an autonomous region of Finland, are best explored on two wheels. With well-maintained cycling routes connecting islands via bridges and ferries, it’s an enjoyable and scenic way to see the archipelago. You can rent a bicycle at some shops or bring your own if you’re traveling by car.

The main town, Mariehamn, is a good starting point, with easy access to coastal trails and nature spots. Since ferries connect Åland with both Finland and Sweden, you can plan a road trip that includes both cycling and driving.

Starting Point & Route:

• From Turku, take a ferry to Mariehamn (4-5 hours).
• Rent a bike in Mariehamn or bring your own car to explore before cycling.

Pro Tip: If you’re bringing a car, take the opportunity to drive through the main island first, then switch to a bike to explore the smaller islands at a slower pace.

For fans of Finland’s most beloved fictional characters, Moomin World in Naantali and the Moomin Museum in Tampere are must-visit spots. Moomin World is a theme park where kids and adults alike can step into the world of the Moomins while the museum showcases original illustrations and stories by Tove Jansson.

Both locations are easily accessible by car, and parking is available nearby. If you’re planning a road trip with family, adding a Moomin stop is a great way to break up the drive with something fun and nostalgic.

Starting Point & Route:

• Moomin World: Drive 2 hours west from Helsinki to Naantali.
• Moomin Museum: Drive Tampere from Helsinki in 2 hours via E12.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Moomin World, plan your trip in summer, as the park is only open seasonally. For the Moomin Museum, check out the special exhibitions before your visit.

Traditional market halls, or kauppahalli, are a great way to experience Finnish food culture. Helsinki’s Old Market Hall, Tampere Market Hall, and Turku Market Hall are some of the best places to try fresh seafood, smoked reindeer, Finnish pastries, and locally made cheeses. Many of these markets have been operating for over a century, making them a part of Finland’s culinary heritage.

If you’re driving, you’ll find parking near these markets, making it convenient to stop for a bite before continuing your trip.

Starting Point & Route:

• Helsinki’s Old Market Hall is near the city center.
• Tampere Market Hall: Drive from Helsinki in 2 hours via E12.

Pro Tip: Markets usually open early and have the freshest products in the morning. Bring cash, as some small vendors might not accept cards.

During the winter months, Finland’s many lakes become prime ice fishing spots. Locals drill holes in the thick ice and patiently wait for perch, pike, and trout. Popular ice fishing locations include Lake Inari, Lake Saimaa, and various lakes in Lapland.

Many guided tours offer equipment rental, but if you’re traveling with your own gear, renting a car makes it easy to reach more secluded spots. Make sure to check ice conditions before heading out, and dress warmly to stay comfortable in freezing temperatures.

Starting Point & Route:

• Lake Inari: Drive 4 hours north from Rovaniemi via E75.
• Lake Saimaa: Drive 3.5 hours from Helsinki via E75.

Pro Tip: Rent an ice fishing tent to stay warm while waiting for a catch. Always check with locals or guides to ensure the ice has enough thickness for safe fishing.