Top 15 Breathtaking Places To Explore In Finland

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 and have visited many times now. From jaw-dropping Finnish Lapland to funky, design-loving Helsinki, here are my favourite places I’d love to share with you…

1. Helsinki

I thought 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 felt both chilled and buzzing at once, with a compact layout and a cool, edgy streak in some corners. As well as its stylish eye for design, I also loved its quirks and eccentricities – I saw locals casually (and a little concerningly!) walking across the frozen sea during mid-winter (my photo is above!), long rows of busy retro-looking heavy metal bars, and the super-cute Moomin cafe! 

I found it refreshingly forward-thinking – with eco-friendly values, a booming vegan scene, and genuinely friendly locals. Located in southern Finland on the Gulf of Finland, part of the Baltic Sea, the city was founded in 1550 and became the capital in 1812.

Over four days, I explored Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, wandered leafy Esplanadi Park, admired both cathedrals, browsed Kiasma’s modern art, marveled at the rock-carved Temppeliaukio Church, sauna’d at Löyly, explored elegant Katajanokka, photographed the Sibelius Monument, and tasted my way through the Old Market Hall.

• Location: South part of the country.
• Activities on offer: Sightseeing, visiting museums, exploring art galleries, dining, and shopping.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Staying at the trendy 4-star Folks Hotel Konepaja – I loved the boutique vibe, the exposed red brick walls and high ceilings in my loft room, the onsite Finnish sauna and my cool Smeg refrigerator which doubled as a minibar! 

2. Oulanka National Park, Finnish Lapland 

I was very in awes of 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! 

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 spent a week at the rustic eco-lodge Basecamp Oulanka, snowshoed the iconic Karhunkierros Trail, admired the frozen Kiutaköngäs Rapids, skied through silent snowy forests, spotted wild reindeer, built a quinzee, stayed in cozy wilderness huts, and watched the Northern Lights dance over the Arctic landscape (my photo is above)!

In summer, I was told by the local guides that visitors came to hike the Karhunkierros Trail, went 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.
• Map Location and Directions

My highlights… 

• Gazing at Insta-worthy views from the large outdoor hot tub at Basecamp Oulanka while sipping on cloudberry liquors – 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!

3. Arctic Resort Kakslauttanen

Staying at the Arctic Resort Kakslauttanen was seriously 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.

I flew into Ivalo Airport from Helsinki which was a one and half hour flight and then a shuttle service met me at the airport. I stayed for an incredible three nights and as well as experiencing a very unique stay in a glass igloo, I also rode a snowmobile through the snowy wilderness, experienced a traditional Finnish sauna, and went on an incredible day trip to the nearby unspoilt Urho Kekkonen National Park, one of Finland’s largest protected areas.

My highlights… 

• Tying out their world’s largest smoke sauna – I experienced a traditional Finnish sauna ritual where I firstly was gently tapped all over the body with a vihta (a birch branch bundle) which they told me would boost my circulation and then it ended with a very refreshing (maybe a bit too refreshing!) dip in an ice hole! 

4. 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! 

I flew into Rovaniemi Airport and spent an extraordinary four days at the Insta-worthy Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle Resort. 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 (and seeing them!), 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, reindeer sledding, and snowmobiling.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Visiting Santa Claus Village, I loved crossing the white line marking the Arctic Circle and watching letters from around the world arrive at the super-cute Santa Claus’ Main Post Office, where outgoing mail got stamped with a special Arctic Circle postmark while the scent of pinewood and gingerbread filled the air! 
• The locals telling me about their magical Midnight Sun – this is when the sun never sets in the summer months of June and July!

5. 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 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!

6. Saariselkä

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!

I flew into Ivalo Airport and then a shuttle bus took us to the village which was 28 kilometres away and I stayed for an extraordinary four days at the wow-inducing 4-star Star Arctic Hotel.

I spent my days skiing at Saariselkä, snowmobiling through fairytale forests, snowshoeing across untouched wilderness, warming up in wood-fired Finnish saunas, watching the Northern Lights shimmer, and uncovering Sámi traditions in the historic town of Inari.

• 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 husky safaris.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights… 

• Trying the local earthy and aromatic Sienikeitto – wild mushroom soup made with hand-picked chanterelles and herbs – and also the hearty whipped lingonberry porridge, Puolukka Vispipuuro, made with foraged berries and semolina.

7. 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 drove 50 minutesHelsinki and stayed for a long weekend at the stunning and romantic 4-star gem Hotel Haikko Manor & Spa. I strolled the cobbled streets of Porvoo’s colorful Old Town, admired the historic cathedral, tasted heavenly chocolate at Brunberg, browsed quirky boutiques, lunched in quaint cafés, and took gorgeous photos from the old railway bridge.

• 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 hearty pumpkin bowl dish which came with tofu, miso, ginger and potent cloudberry liqueurs! 

8. 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.

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 at the Insta-worthy Utsjoki Arctic Resort 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 (my photo is above).

• Location: North part of the country, near the border with Norway
• 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.
• 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

9. 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! 

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.
• Map Location and Directions

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)! 

10. 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!

I drove here from Helsinki which took 30 minutes and stayed for a weekend at the unique Haltia Lake Lodge Nature Boutique Hotel & Glamping. I followed forest trails like the Haukankierros, paddled across calm Lake Haukkalampi, watched flying squirrels dart between trees, joined an interesting nature walk, and checked out the hands-on displays at Haltia Centre.

• 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.
• Map Location and Directions

My favourite highlights… 

• I hiked the 4 km Haukankierros Trail (Hawk Trail) in two hours through peaceful pine and birch forests with gorgeous views of Haukkalampi Lake—and I loved spotting the small cave-like crevices once used as natural shelters, according to the nature centre guide!

11. 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! 

I drove three hours from Helsinki and stayed for a week in the summer at the cosy family-friendly Resort Naaranlahti. It felt peaceful but not deserted – I cruised tranquil waters, explored Linnansaari and Kolovesi, spotted the elusive Saimaa ringed seal, relaxed in lakeside saunas, swam from soft sandy beaches, visited medieval Olavinlinna Castle, and spent days kayaking, hiking, and hopping between wild islands.

• 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 scenic 7 km trail in Linnansaari National Park in three hours, passing Lake Saimaa’s archipelago, old-growth forests, and rocky cliffs—I loved stumbling on the secluded fire-pit and lean-to shelter, and finding the ‘echo cliff’ where my voice bounced perfectly across the water!

12. 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! 

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.
• 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! 

13. 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!

I travelled here ferry from a nearby island of Väski Island and stayed for two days at the chic boutique Bridget Inn. I strolled cobblestone lanes, lingered at cute harbor cafés, toured the impressive Kultaranta Palace and its gardens, had fun at the wonderfully whimsical Moomin World, soaked up sea views on a coastal walk, explored the town’s historic church, and unwound at the elegant Naantali Spa. Locals told me the June Naantali Music Festival was great too!

• 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! 

14. Mariehamn

I thought this was a very pretty 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.

I caught a ferry from the nearby island of Föglö and spent a peaceful three days at the chic but homely 4-star Park Alandia Hotel. I explored the charming harbour with its historic wooden houses, visited the interesting Åland Maritime Museum and the Museum Ship Pommern.

I also 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.
• 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! 

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. 

I flew into Joensuu Airport and drove 90 km (about two hours) to the unique and rustic Tarina-Aho Resort, where I spent a blissful five days unwinding in 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, boating, and fishing.
• Map Location and Directions

My personal highlights… 

• Hiking the 3.5 km Koli Peaks Trail (Huippujen Kierros) in two hours, starting and ending at the Ukko-Koli Nature Centre—my favourite moment was reaching Ukko-Koli, the park’s highest peak, where I saw a spectacular panoramic view over Lake Pielinen, one of Finland’s largest lakes!