Finland is a country of forests, 188,000 lakes, tens of thousands of islands and Arctic wilderness, with calm, safe and well-organised cities. It is easy for first-time visitors: almost everyone speaks English, everything works on a card, and nature is never far away. This guide covers where to go, when to visit, how to get around and the customs worth knowing before you arrive.
The best places to visit
Helsinki
The capital is compact and walkable. Its highlights include the sea fortress of Suomenlinna (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a short ferry ride from the Market Square), the Design District, Oodi Central Library, the white Helsinki Cathedral and many seaside saunas. Two or three days is a good start.
Turku
Finland's oldest city and former capital, two hours west of Helsinki. It has a medieval castle, a 700-year-old cathedral and a lively riverside. See our guide to the top things to do in Turku.
The Turku Archipelago and Naantali
Tens of thousands of islands connected by bridges and free road ferries, plus Naantali's wooden old town and Moomin World. Read our archipelago guide and Naantali day trip guide.
Lakeland
Central and eastern Finland is a maze of lakes and forests. Savonlinna, with its medieval Olavinlinna castle and summer opera festival, is a highlight, as is a stay in a lakeside cottage with a sauna.
Tampere
A lively city between two lakes, known for its industrial heritage, the Moomin Museum and its saunas. See Turku to Tampere.
Rauma and Porvoo
Two charming small towns with wooden old towns. Old Rauma is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Porvoo is an easy day trip from Helsinki.
Lapland
Northern lights, huskies, reindeer, the midnight sun and Santa Claus Village. Start with our Lapland trip planner.
When to visit Finland
Summer (June–August): long, bright days, with nearly 19 hours of daylight in the south at midsummer. It is the season for lakes, islands, festivals and terraces. It is the most popular time for southern Finland.
Autumn (September–October): colourful forests and quieter cities, and the northern lights return in Lapland.
Winter (December–March): snow, Christmas and Lapland's best season. In the south, winters are darker and more variable.
Spring (April–May): the snow melts and days lengthen quickly. It is a calm, affordable time for city trips.
For Lapland specifically, see our best time to visit Lapland guide.
Getting around
Trains: VR trains are comfortable and connect Helsinki, Turku, Tampere and the north, including night trains to Lapland.
Flights: the quickest way to reach Lapland, mostly via Helsinki-Vantaa.
Buses: long-distance coaches reach towns that trains don't, often at low prices.
Car hire: ideal for the archipelago and Lakeland. Roads are excellent, but watch for elk and reindeer, and winter tyres are compulsory in winter.
Taxis and transfers: prices vary by company, so check before you ride. Read our guide to taxi prices in Finland.
Money, language and practicalities
Currency: the euro. Cards and mobile payments are accepted almost everywhere, even for small purchases.
Tipping: not expected. Service is included.
Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, and English is spoken widely. A "kiitos" (thank you) is always appreciated.
Tap water: excellent everywhere. There is no need to buy bottled water.
Alcohol: beer, cider and lighter wines are sold in supermarkets, and stronger drinks only in the state-owned Alko stores, which have limited hours.
Safety: Finland is one of the safest countries in the world. The main risks are icy pavements and the cold in winter.
Entry: Finland is in the EU and the Schengen area.
Local customs
Sauna is everywhere. There are millions in a country of 5.6 million people. Shower first, sit on a towel and enjoy the heat. Many public saunas are mixed and require swimwear.
Personal space and quiet are valued. Finns may seem reserved, but they are friendly and very helpful when asked.
Punctuality matters. Be on time for tours, meetings and transfers.
Everyman's rights let everyone walk, camp briefly and pick berries and mushrooms in nature, as long as you respect homes and the environment.
Take your shoes off when entering a Finnish home.
Sample itineraries
5 days in southern Finland
Spend two days in Helsinki including Suomenlinna. Travel to Turku on day 3 for the castle, cathedral and river. Day 4 is a day trip to Naantali or the archipelago, and on day 5 you return to Helsinki or fly from Turku.
7 days: Turku, the archipelago and Lapland
Spend two days in Turku and one on the archipelago, then fly north for four days in Rovaniemi or Levi.
10 days: the classic route
Helsinki (2 days), Turku and the archipelago (3 days), Tampere or Lakeland (2 days), then Lapland (3 days).
Frequently asked questions
Is Finland expensive?
Prices are similar to other Nordic countries. Accommodation and eating out are the biggest costs, while public transport and nature are good value.
Do I need cash in Finland?
Rarely. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including taxis, buses and market stalls.
Arriving in Turku?
Aura Rides offers fixed-price transfers from Turku Airport, the harbour and the train station, and longer trips to Helsinki, Tampere and the archipelago. Book your ride online.
