Europe
Finland
Continent
Best States to Visit
- Kainuu
- North Karelia
- Central Ostrobothnia
- Central Finland
- Pirkanmaa
Best Cities to Visit
- Helsinki
- Espoo
- Tampere
- Vantaa
- Oulu
Size
338,440 KM2
Population
6
GDP
$26,929
Spending Budget
$1,745 - $2,041
Best Time to Visit
- June
- July
- August
History
A part of Sweden from the 12th century until 1809, Finland was then a Russian grand duchy until, following the Russian Revolution, the Finns declared independence on December 6, 1917. Finland’s area decreased by about one-tenth during the 1940s, when it ceded the Petsamo (Pechenga) area, which had been a corridor to the ice-free Arctic coast, and a large part of southeastern Karelia to the Soviet Union (ceded portions now in Russia). Throughout the Cold War era, Finland skillfully maintained a neutral political position, although a 1948 treaty with the Soviet Union (terminated 1991) required Finland to repel any attack on the Soviet Union.
Present Day
Finland is a Northern European nation bordering Sweden, Norway and Russia. Its capital, Helsinki, occupies a peninsula and surrounding islands in the Baltic Sea. Helsinki is home to the 18th-century sea fortress Suomenlinna, the fashionable Design District and diverse museums. The Northern Lights can be seen from the country's Arctic Lapland province, a vast wilderness with national parks and ski resorts. Finland is heavily forested and contains some 56,000 lakes, numerous rivers, and extensive areas of marshland; viewed from the air, Finland looks like an intricate blue and green jigsaw puzzle. Except in the northwest, relief features do not vary greatly, and travelers on the ground or on the water can rarely see beyond the trees in their immediate vicinity. The landscape nevertheless possesses a striking—if sometimes bleak—beauty.
Future
Finland's aging population poses the greatest challenge for the future. Its extensive welfare and social security system will be strained by the shrinking workforce and increasing population of the elderly. A major difficulty the government faces is the political unpopularity of suggesting reductions in the welfare system. The guarantee of a certain standard of living is considered to be of primary importance to most Finns, but the question of where the money will come from to support this policy has no easy answer. The suggestion made by Finland's most right-wing political organizations—restricting those who are eligible for benefits based on ethnic criteria.
Northern Lights
Ideally visible between September and March in the Finnish Lapland, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is a surreal treat for the eyes that sends onlookers into a trance. A mystical, out-of-the-world experience, these lights in the sky are one of the most breathtaking Finland attractions.
Santa Claus Village
This lovely amusement park nestled in the snowy mountains of Lapland is Finland’s version of a Disneyland. With ice restaurants, husky and reindeer sleigh rides, an igloo hotel, and safaris and excursions, you’re sure to find something that interests you here. Your Finland travel is incomplete without a visit to this visual treat.
Aland
Mostly known for being a nature lover’s refuge, Aland is an old, quaint group of islands. Take a deep dive into old Finnish culture by visiting the maritime museum and the open-air museum here. One of the most peaceful Finland destinations, Aland will make sure you sit back and enjoy your Finland holidays.
Suomenlinna
Built as a sea fortress in the 18th century, this is now a UNESCO World Heritage site frequented by locals and tourists alike. Inside the fortress is a museum rich with Finland’s military history. This is one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Finland.
Helsinki
This beautiful city is the capital of Finland and one of the hottest Finland tourist spots. Modern buildings, lush landscapes, and a bustling city spirit lends this city a special air. Take a ferry ride or taste some traditional Finnish fare at Helsinki’s Market Square, which is one of the major Finland points of interest
Levi
Unblemished snow and limitless ski slopes have landed this ski resort among the most popular Finland tourist places. Located 170 km north of the Arctic Circle, Levi offers consistent subzero temperatures, and a large range of open trails and open lifts. From a beginner to an expert, Levi has something for everyone to enjoy.
Savonlinna
Home to the Olavinlinna Castle and a major spot for Finland sightseeing, Savonlinna is becoming an increasingly visited city. This place plays host to a ballet festival and an opera festival every now and then, and also has open air theatres, museums, underground caves, and galleries.
Sibelius Monument
Established to pay respect to Jean Sibelius, a nationally recognised music composer, this monument is built with more than 600 hollow steel pipes, coming together to form an organ. It is a magnificent sight, conveying volumes on Finnish culture and heritage. It is the perfect place for all history buffs and culture enthusiasts who wish to know more about the Finnish folks!
Turku
The major attraction is the Turku castle built in the 16-17th century, which is now home to the Turku Museum. This old town harbours a shopping center, a Church, a market, and even a Swedish theatre! Not to forget its quirky riverside restaurants which satisfies all senses.
Nuuksio National Park
Nuuksio National Park is rich with wildlife, and is spread over a large area offering many camping and skiing opportunities. With long, uninterrupted trails for bicycling, hiking, and horse-riding, this park is one of the most well-preserved places to visit in Finland. It is surrounded by Finland’s natural bounty and offers stunning views of lush greenery.
Tampere
Blending between the two gorgeous lakes, Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi, Tampere stands proud of its vibrant artwork and thrilling activities throughout the winter season for all kinds of tourists. Don’t miss out on the Amuri open-air park and Moomin Valley Museum that will let you sneak a peek into the nation’s history and various exhibitions.
Porvoo
Known to be Finland’s few medieval settlements, this city has a history of more than 600 years and while many do not know that the town square’s clad in cobble are creations via the directions of the Swedish masters that once used to reside here.