What can you find in Finland that you won’t find elsewhere ?
A hot spot for Northern Lights holidays, a haven for families seeking Santa Claus, and a dream for those wanting wilderness hotels and the chance to explore the Arctic Circle – Finland boasts a million unique opportunities for tapping into your imagination. Traveling to Finnish Lapland in the winter is an amazing time to witness the northern lights, gleam against the snow, to see black nights brimming with stars, and to soak up the magic of the Santa Claus village. Husky safaris, snowshoeing and skiing are all popular winter activities here. When the snows have melted, summer travel to Finland showcases white nights, where the sun never sets - particularly in Utsjoki. Helsinki blooms to life with its late-night bars and art nouveau architecture. Beyond the periphery of the city - tranquil lakes and no less than 180,000 islands are just waiting to be explored.
Who is Finland best for ?
Lakes, islands, national parks, wild landscapes – from north to south, Finland is a country full of nature. For those travellers who adore a sense of silence and dream of hiding away in a cabin in the woods, Finland has endless deep dark forests and wilderness hotels. For intrepid travellers who want to plunge into icy lakes and hop into steamy saunas, Finland holidays are sure to get your heart beating strong. For travellers who love a taste of the action - Finland offers winters spent traversing the landscapes by snowmobile, cross country skis or snowshoeing. Summer doesn’t slow down on the action front, with long walks, endless cycling trails, and rowing boats bobbing on the lakes. Finally, culture vultures will also get their fill as Finland holidays in Helsinki offer art deco designs and endless summer festivals, covering everything from jazz to blues, rock and opera.
What are the best ways to discover Finland ?
Be sure to take a weekend in Helsinki, where you can revel in the beauty of its architecture - kick back in the green parks, and head out island hopping. The Suomenlinna fortress is a must see, dating back to the 18th century and declared a UNESCO heritage site. If you want to extend your trip, then just beyond Helsinki are endless national parks filled with wild-flowers and wonder.
A long weekend in Lapland puts you right in the heart of mother nature and depending on the season, you can immerse your senses in landscapes that are dressed in white or green. Admire herds of reindeer or mysterious elk and partake in endless activities that move with the rhythms of nature.
If you have a week to spare, then rent a car and discover Finland at your own pace. Pass quaint towns, impressive castles, shimmering lakes and silent forests on your adventures. For serene escapes, book a wooden cottage deep in the forest and spend your days fishing, swimming, and hiking the pretty trails.
Special things to do in Finland
Helsinki
With 200km of slopes and giant ice sculptures, Helsinki invites the best of both worlds – offering a cultural city break along with the chance to cross-country ski across the great outdoors.
Over in Lapland and the village of Santa Claus
Children and adults alike will fall head over heels for sleigh rides, husky and reindeer cuddles and twinkling lights.
A husky ride is another incredible experience
Listen to the hound’s howl before they take off across the snowy grounds, pulling you and the sleigh into the air as you go. For the truly brave of heart, Finland is an incredible place to take a ride in an icebreaker and even swim alongside giant eerie groaning icicles.