There’s so much more to Finland than Nokia, saunas, lakes and Moomins. You can enjoy stunning natural landscapes, wonderfully welcoming service and unforgettable dining experiences. Here are our top 10 reasons to visit this beautiful country.

Skyline of Helsinki

The world is opening back up for tourism, and we can finally go visit those places we have been holding off on for over a year. However, restrictions are still in effect in many countries, and we recommend all travellers to take precautions and read the entry guidelines for their destination carefully.

1. Exotic natural landscape

The thousands of lakes in Finland are surrounded by beautiful forest-covered hills and valleys. There is untouched and exotic nature here like nowhere else, snow-capped mountains and trees, as well as the spectacular aurora borealis or Northern Lights! Visit Saimaa, Finland's largest lake, located in the beautiful Lakeland region. You also have the ”Right to Roam” in Finland, which is a law that allows you to set up a tent anywhere you like as long as you are not disturbing any people or the surrounding nature.

Lakeland in Finland Photo: Juko Kuva/Visit Finland.

Finland: Camping under Northern Lights Perhaps you might even experience the Northern Lights while visiting Saimaa? Photo: Mikko Nikkinnen/Business Finland.

2. Kind and friendly people

Finns love their country and are proud of Finnish nature and culture. They will always greet you with openness, warmth, and hospitality, and quickly introduce you to their way of life.

Clarion Hotel Aviapolis, Helsinki, Finland - Couple in bar_16_9 Have a drink with new friends or enjoy the Helsinki vibe, just the two of you.

3. Beautiful architecture

Finland's architecture is deeply rooted in the surrounding nature. The Finnish architect Alvar Aalto has created many impressive and beautiful buildings that will take your breath away, all just through simple lines, forms, features, and the use of natural materials.

Helsinki, Finland: Finlandia HallFinlandia Hall is a conference and event space located in the center of Helsinki created by Alvar Aalto.

4. Fantastic National Parks

Experience Finland's magnificent national parks with their rolling river valleys, beautiful lakes, forests, mountains and fantastic wildlife. Here in Finland you can find king eagles, grouse and reindeer roaming in the wild. Visit the Oulanka National Park or Nuuksio National Park, perfect for those wishing to experience wildlife and wilderness.

5. Helsinki

The capital city Helsinki offers culinary experiences, great shopping, beautiful art and cultural history, and outstanding architecture. What do you need? Deep relaxation, activities for young and old or a vibrant nightlife? First time travelling to Helsinki? Here are 4 tips on what to see and do on a weekend trip!

Helsinki, Finland: CathedralHelsinki Cathedral is a must-see when visiting the capital.

Helsinki, Finland - City tram_16_9 A great way to see the city is to hop on the tram.

6. Skiing in powdery snow

Do you like skiing? Look out over the beautiful landscape while you ski on powdery fine snow down one of Finland's many exciting mountains. Kittilä in Lapland offers very good skiing opportunities. You can visit the Ylvas or Levi ski resorts which offer both beautiful nature and lots of fun.

7. A Mecca for shopping enthusiasts

Finland's many charming shops and large shopping centres offer iconic, exclusive and affordable textiles, jewels, furniture and much more. The Stockmann Department Store in Helsinki is Scandinavia's largest shopping mall with more than 50,000 square metres over 10 floors, in other words a Mecca for shopping enthusiasts and well worth a visit!

Helsinki, Finland: Stockmann Department store Stockmann Helsinki Centre is located in the heart of Helsinki.

8. Unique dining experiences

Why not try Finland's many restaurants and eateries, and enjoy delicious delicacies from Finnish nature such as chanterelle soup, a sweet blueberry pie or exquisite fresh salmon. For those seeking a unique dining experience, authentic Finnish food, delicious flavours and wild herbs, Restaurant Juuri in Helsinki is definitely a must!

9. Finnish sauna

Ok, so we had to include a sauna. A Finnish sauna is an important part of Finnish culture and is used both for relaxation and health, but is also a meeting point for business and festive gatherings. How about going to a sauna at a height of 40 metres? The Skywheel Ferris wheel at the Helsinki Market Square has its own sauna trolley that offers views of Helsinki city and the sea beyond.

Sauna at Quality Hotel Alexandra

Helsinki: Skywheel sauna Photo: Skywheel Helsinki.

10. Island hopping and beach life

Do you fancy island hopping between the beautiful little islands, swimming on the chalky white beaches or relaxing on top of a nice rock with a fantastic view? Outside Helsinki, you can island hop from Lonna to Vallisaari and Suomenlinna. Finland offers everything you could wish for!


Fancy a trip to Finland? We have a great range of hotels in Helsinki. You can view some of our hotels in this Nordic capital below.

Hotel Kämp

Hotel Kämp offers a majestic retreat in the heart of Helsinki. The beautiful classic design, gourmet restaurants and traditional-meets-modern spa facilities mean the hotel is well worth a visit in its own right!

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Clarion Hotel® Aviapolis

Clarion Hotel® Aviapolis is just 2 kilometres away from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. This is a perfect meeting place with stylish design, warm and luxurious atmosphere, sauna and fabulous food.

Clarion Hotel Aviapolis - Facade_16_9

Clarion Hotel® Helsinki

Clarion Hotel® Helsinki is an urban hotel, well known for its proximity to the city's amenities, its beautiful style, its unique meeting point on the hotel's rooftop terrace with a pool and sauna, Sky Bar with a view over the city and gourmet cuisine from The Social Bar & Bistro.

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Clarion Hotel Helsinki, Finland - Lobby_16_9

Clarion Hotel Helsinki, Finland - Swimming pool_original

GLO Hotel Art

Are you a fan of Art Nouveau? GLO Hotel Art was built in 1903 and stands firm as an authentic gem of a place in the middle of Helsinki's otherwise largely modern Nordic design. Get your castle vibe on and immerse yourself in the exceptional level of comfort and service at GLO Hotel Art.

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GLO Hotel Kluuvi

GLO Hotel Kluuvi is the place to be for foodies! Check into a room brimming with style and head down to The TRAY with a friend or nine, where amazing street food experiences with exciting sharing plates await. You certainly won’t go hungry when you stay here!

reception-glo-hotel-kluuvi

GLO Hotel Sello

If you’re seeking a stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then GLO Hotel Sello in Espoo is your best bet! With tasty barbecued dishes served all the year round, this is the ideal location for company events and weekend breaks with friends and family!

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Hotel F6

Centrally located with immediate access to shopping streets and culture, Hotel F6 is popular because of its beautiful design, luxurious style, cultured atmosphere, and healthy and delicious breakfast featuring the finest Finnish cuisine.

Inner entrance Hotel F6_16_9

Hotel Fabian

Are you seeking a second home in Helsinki? Hotel Fabian offers guests an unrivalled homely feel for ultimate relaxation. With 50 beautifully furnished rooms and comfortable lounge areas, this friendly boutique hotel will provide you with wonderful lasting memories until you return!

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Hotel Haven

The boutique hotel Hotel Haven is centrally located next to the South Harbour, just a short walk from the best bars, restaurants and attractions that Helsinki has to offer. Sea view? Most definitely!

Hotel Haven in Helsinki, Finland - Bar Haven_16_9

Hotel St. George

Hotel St. George takes wellness to a whole new level by focusing on relaxation and healthy traditions. Take a trip to the spa or admire the over 400 works of art displayed throughout the hotel. Our aim is to bring joy to your soul.

Hotel St. George in Helsinki, Finland - Spa pool_original

Klaus K

Klaus K is like something straight out of a fairytale. Inspired by Finland's epic poetry, the Kalevala, and featuring elements of Finnish folklore and mythology, this hotel is sure to transport you deep into the heartlands of Finnish history and culture.

Klaus K in Helsinki, Finland - Lounge_16_9

Lilla Roberts

Elegance, luxury and a good dash of warmth - all brought together with stunning Art Deco style. Lilla Roberts is a must for arty metropolitan wanderers who enjoy classic elegance and luxury during their travels. Finnish food and fashion are the foundation of this unique concept hotel.

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View a list of all our hotels in Helsinki.