Sian Victoria © - Sunset shining on flowers along an ocean cliff edge

Guide to Finland's Sightseeing and Winter Themed Attractions

If, like me, you want to escape the same old routine of spending winter in the UK and dream of swapping rain for something more stunning, Finland is a great place to enjoy unique winter activities. The country is a gorgeous winter wonderland, offering many exciting things to do in the snow. From the beautiful snowy landscapes to the sparkling lights of Lapland, Finland is the place to be if you want to experience a fairytale Christmas.

Whether you're interested in dog sledging through the pristine forests, witnessing the magical Northern Lights, or relaxing in a traditional sauna after a day of adventure, Finland has it all. The fusion of nature and cultural experiences makes Finland a genuinely must-visit destination in the winter. So, let's look at some of the incredible winter activities you can enjoy in Finland to make the most of this European gem.

1. Helsinki

Helsinki, the dynamic capital of Finland, undergoes a magical change during the winter season. Senate Square is a great place to start, especially with the Helsinki Cathedral standing proudly against the snowy scenery. Walking around the attractive streets of the Design District is a must, offering an excellent opportunity to find one-of-a-kind Finnish souvenirs and tuck into local delicacies at cosy cafes. The renowned Temppeliaukio Church, carved into solid rock and beautifully illuminated during winter, is also worth a visit.

When visiting Helsinki in the winter, a stop at the Old Market Hall should be at the top of your itinerary. You can warm up here with traditional Finnish treats like salmon soup and cinnamon buns. Alternatively, outdoor enthusiasts will love Nuuksio National Park, a short drive from the city centre, which offers fantastic snowshoeing and winter hiking opportunities. Additionally, Helsinki's seaside location means you can enjoy invigorating ice swimming in the Baltic Sea, which pairs perfectly with a visit to a traditional Finnish sauna.

To end your day on a high note, stroll along Esplanadi, a famous promenade that comes alive with a spectacle of lights and cheerful decorations during the holiday season. Helsinki is a beautiful mix of cultural displays and natural appeal in winter, making it a must-visit destination during the Finnish winter.

2. Lapland

Finnish Lapland, where you’ll find the ultimate adventure in northernmost Finland, is an incredible destination that captures the winter wonderland aesthetic. This area features vast, snow-covered landscapes, charming Sámi villages, and various winter activities. A must-do experience in Lapland is meeting Father Christmas at his village in Rovaniemi, where you can also send a postcard from the Father Christmas Main Post Office.

For adventure seekers, snowmobile safaris offer a stimulating way to explore the snowy terrain, while reindeer sleigh rides provide a more peaceful journey through the Lappish wilderness. Ice fishing on frozen lakes is a traditional pastime that immerses you in the local culture.

A stay in a glass igloo or ice hotel provides an exceptional experience of the Arctic environment and, if lucky, the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The region's rich Sámi culture can be explored through guided tours, where you can learn about traditional crafts, music, and the unique lifestyle of the Indigenous people.

3. Husky Sledding Adventures

Husky sledging is a top attraction in Finland. It's a fantastic way to experience the beautiful winter landscapes. The experience involves a team of enthusiastic huskies pulling you through snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. The adventure begins with meeting your team of lively huskies known for their friendly nature and endless energy.

After a quick introduction to mushing, you'll take the reins and guide your sledge through the breathtaking scenery. The sound of paws crunching the snow and the sight of your breath in the crisp air add to the magic of the experience.

Finnish Lapland is one of the best places for husky sledging, offering various tours for different skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musher, an adventure awaits you. Many tours also allow you to visit a husky farm, where you can learn about caring for and training these magnificent dogs. However, if you feel the dogs are not being treated well, don’t hesitate to back out of the experience.

Some experiences even include a campfire stop, where you can get toasty with hot beverages and traditional Finnish snacks. Husky sledging is not just an activity; it's a unique way to connect with nature and create rare memories in the Finnish wilderness.

4. Northern Lights Watching

The northern lights, often called the Aurora Borealis, are a humbling natural display that can be witnessed in Finland during winter. This stunning phenomenon is created when solar particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, producing vibrant shades of pink, purple, and green in the night sky. The best time to see this hypnotic light show is between late September and early April, when the skies are clear and dark, providing optimal viewing conditions.

For the most exceptional experience, consider visiting Finnish Lapland. Remote locations far from city lights increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Popular destinations such as Rovaniemi, Inari, and Kakslauttanen offer unique vantage points and accommodations designed for observing the Northern Lights.

Guided tours provide transportation, expert guidance, and even photography recommendations to help you capture the perfect shot. Many tours also offer extras like hot beverages and snacks to keep you warm while waiting for the lights to appear.

5. A Day Trip to Russia

For those who fancy a chilly getaway, two neighbouring destinations come to mind: Finland and Russia. So why not consider a day trip to Russia to infuse international appeal into your Finnish winter adventure? Helsinki's proximity to Saint Petersburg allows a day's exploration of Russia's cultural hotspot. Start your adventure with a morning train ride on the Allegro high-speed service, which conveniently links the two cities in less than four hours.

Upon arrival, explore the architectural sights of Saint Petersburg with a visit to the iconic Hermitage Museum, where you can see numerous art and artefacts. Then, stroll along Nevsky Prospect, the city's main street with historic structures, shops, and dining places. Of course, a visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, renowned for its exquisite mosaics and colourful domes.

If time allows, visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, a significant historical site. Try traditional Russian delicacies like borscht and blini at a local restaurant before catching the evening train back to Helsinki.

An excursion from Finland to Russia allows you to experience different cultures. It adds an intriguing dimension to your winter holiday, as both countries are equally stunning. However, if you choose to do this, ensure you have obtained the necessary Russian visa to avoid disappointment.

6. The Archipelago Trail

For those like me who love hiking and nature, the Archipelago Trail offers a unique winter experience through Finland's stunning archipelago, which comprises over 20,000 islands. The journey begins in Turku and takes you through attractive villages, landscapes, and sea views, all covered in a blanket of winter snow. This 250 km route is accessible by car, bicycle, or ferry, providing options for all types of explorers.

During the trip, you can stay in cosy accommodations in pleasant guesthouses and traditional Finnish cottages. While here, sample local specialities like fresh fish dishes and the famous Karelian pasties. For winter sports enthusiasts, there are opportunities for ice skating on natural ice rinks and cross-country skiing along well-maintained trails that offer spectacular sea views.

The islands of Nagu and Houtskär are incredibly appealing in the winter, with their scenery and welcoming local communities. The Archipelago Trail also provides excellent chances for wildlife observation, including the opportunity to spot seals relaxing on the ice and various seabirds braving the cold.

7. Ice Fishing on Frozen Lakes

Ice fishing on the frozen lakes of Finland is a classic winter activity. It's a traditional pastime that involves drilling a hole through the thick ice, setting up a fishing line, and eagerly awaiting a nibble. Popular spots for ice fishing include Lake Inari and Lake Saimaa, both known for their stunning scenery and abundant fish populations, such as perch, pike, and trout.

Guided tours provide all the necessary equipment and instruction, making it accessible even for beginners. These tours often include a cosy ice fishing tent equipped with a heater to keep you warm while waiting for your catch.

One unique aspect of ice fishing in Finland is the opportunity to learn about local customs and techniques from experienced guides, who are often eager to share stories and tips. After a successful day on the ice, it's common to cook your catch over an open fire to enjoy the fresh, simple flavours of your hard-earned meal.

8. Santa Claus Village

The iconic Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is situated directly on the Arctic Circle and is open all year round, but the winter months are incredibly fascinating. Visiting Santa Claus's Office is a highlight, as visitors can meet Father Christmas and take photos with him. Another must-do is sending a postcard from the Santa Claus Main Post Office with a special Arctic Circle postmark.

The village has magical shops offering unique Finnish gifts, including handcrafted items and traditional Christmas decorations. Visitors can indulge their sweet tooth at the cosy cafés, enjoying hot chocolate, gingerbread biscuits, and other festive treats.

For families with children, Santa's Reindeer is a big hit. Kids love meeting and feeding the gentle animals and can even enjoy a short reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. The Elf School is another fun stop, offering workshops where kids can learn about the daily lives of Santa's helpers. The village is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, creating a warm and magical atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of Christmas.

9. Finnish Saunas

It's a winter essential to experience the Finnish sauna culture. Saunas have many benefits, and they are deeply ingrained in Finnish life and found in homes, hotels, and workplaces. The sauna experience usually starts with heating it to a cosy 80-100°C, providing a warm retreat from the cold. Finns typically relax on wooden benches, letting the heat envelop them.

A unique feature of Finnish saunas is the "löyly," which is the steam created by pouring water over hot stones, intensifying the heat and offering a unique, refreshing sensation. Many saunas are situated by lakes or the sea, allowing for the invigorating tradition of jumping into icy water or rolling in the snow between sauna sessions, which is believed to enhance circulation and rejuvenate the body.

For an authentic experience, try a smoke sauna. This traditional type lacks a chimney; the room is filled with smoke before airing out, leaving a lingering, aromatic warmth. Finnish saunas provide a tranquil escape and a deeper appreciation of a cherished national tradition.

10. Snowmobile Safaris

Snowmobile safaris in Finland offer an exciting way to explore the snow-covered wilderness. Riding a snowmobile, you can speed through forests, over frozen lakes, and across rugged terrains, engaging yourself in the stunning beauty of Finland in winter. These guided tours are suitable for all abilities. Before your adventure, you'll receive thorough instructions and safety gear, ensuring a safe experience.

Many tours in Finnish Lapland take you through remote areas, where you can soak up untouched nature and perhaps catch a glimpse of wildlife such as reindeer or arctic foxes. Some safaris include stops at scenic viewpoints, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes. Others offer the opportunity to visit traditional Sámi villages, providing insight into the Indigenous culture and way of life.

For an extraordinary experience, consider a night-time snowmobile safari. Lapland’s dark, clear skies provide an excellent backdrop for witnessing the Northern Lights. Snowmobile safaris are an exceptional way to blend adventure and natural beauty, making them a must-try activity during your winter trip to Finland.

11. Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing in Finland is a fantastic winter activity that lets you peacefully explore snowy lands. Finland has a great network of well-maintained trails suitable for all skill levels, so you'll find the perfect route whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier.

Urho Kekkonen National Park and the trails around Saariselkä are popular destinations offering a variety of routes through breathtaking scenery. Gliding through silent, snow-covered forests and open fields is genuinely magical. You only hear your skis and the occasional rustle of wildlife, which adds to the calmness of the experience.

If you're new to cross-country skiing, many places offer equipment rental and introductory ski lessons to help you get started. You'll also find cosy huts along many trails where you can take a break, warm up with a hot drink, and enjoy the serene surroundings.

12. Ice Hotel Stay

Visiting an ice hotel is an extraordinary activity to experience the Arctic environment. These unique accommodations, constructed entirely from ice and snow, offer a surreal combination of art and architecture. Each room is adorned with intricate ice carvings and illuminated by soft, ambient lighting, creating a magical atmosphere. One of the most famous ice hotels is the Snow Castle of Kemi, rebuilt every winter with a new design theme.

Your stay includes all the essentials to keep you warm, such as thermal sleeping bags and reindeer hides. Guests are surprisingly warm and comfortable despite room temperatures hovering around -5°C. Ice hotels often offer additional facilities, such as ice bars serving drinks in ice glasses and ice chapels where you can witness an ice wedding or renew your vows.

Many ice hotels provide a variety of activities to enhance your stay, from ice sculpting workshops to guided tours explaining the fascinating construction process. Guests can also enjoy traditional Finnish cuisine in a restaurant made entirely of ice.

13. Reindeer Sleigh Rides

Reindeer sleigh rides are essential to the Finnish winter experience and are the best way to connect with Finland's Arctic heritage. They offer a peaceful journey through the snowy surroundings pulled by these magnificent creatures. The Sámi people, who deeply connect with reindeer, provide guided sleigh rides to give you a glimpse of their traditional way of life.

During your reindeer sleigh ride, you will be wrapped in a cosy blanket as you glide through the pristine wilderness and hear the soft jingling of bells attached to the reindeer harnesses; with their impressive antlers and calm demeanour, it’s a beautiful experience to get up close to these incredible animals.

Many tours start with an introduction to Sámi culture, where you can learn about their traditional clothing, crafts, and the special bond they share with their reindeer. The rides often end with a visit to a warm Sámi tent, known as a "kota," where you can enjoy a cup of hot berry juice by the fire.

14. Turku

Turku, the oldest city in Finland, is a beautiful combination of history and winter magic. When you visit, start at Turku Castle, a medieval fortress from the 1200s packed full of history. The castle's grand halls perfectly illustrate Finland's rich history. Not far from there is Turku Cathedral, a historical gem that becomes even more enchanting when surrounded by snow.

For a unique experience, you should check out the Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum. This open-air museum gives a peek into Finnish life in the 18th and 19th centuries. During the winter, the museum hosts special events and demonstrations of traditional crafts, providing a fascinating look into the past.

You should take advantage of the Turku Christmas Market, which takes place in the Old Great Square. The market boasts many stalls selling handmade crafts, festive foods, and seasonal drinks like glögi, a warm-spiced wine. Carollers and performers add to the lively atmosphere, making it a superb winter outing.

For those who love the outdoors, Ruissalo Island, located nearby, has beautiful trails perfect for winter walks and birdwatching. To end your day, consider visiting one of Turku's many cosy cafés, where you can warm up with a cup of Finnish coffee and a pulla, a traditional sweet bun. With its blend of historical attractions and winter festivities, Turku is a must-visit during your Finnish adventure.

To conclude

Finland's winter season offers many exceptional activities, including snowmobile safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, the Northern Lights, and one-of-a-kind stays at ice hotels. Whether you're interested in the culture of Helsinki and Turku or the scenery of Lapland, there's something for every adventurer.

Finnish activities like unwinding in a sauna or ice fishing on frozen lakes guarantee lasting memories. Blending natural beauty with cultural heritage in a genuinely fascinating environment, a winter vacation in Finland is the place to be for a true winter wonderland.

*SHOP THE POST

These products may be useful before your winter wonderland experience in Finland. First, ensure you're cosy with a thermal base layer set, perfect for keeping warm during frosty outdoor activities. Next, capture the breathtaking northern lights with a DSLR digital camera. For those eager to experience the thrill of snow sports, a durable pair of snowshoes will let you easily explore Finland's stunning landscapes. Keep your fingers toasty with touchscreen thermal gloves, allowing you to use your devices without exposure to the cold. Finally, a portable power bank ensures your gadgets stay charged.

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