Best Things to Do in Finland: Northern Lights, Saunas & Nature

Finland captivates with its blend of Arctic wonders, endless forests, and glittering lakes. From the ethereal dance of the northern lights to invigorating saunas and vast national parks, this Nordic gem offers diverse experiences for nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and families alike. Dive into our guide to the must-do activities that reveal Finland’s soul.

Chasing the Aurora Borealis in the Arctic North

The northern lights, known locally as *revontulet* or fox fires, transform Finland’s dark winter skies into a canvas of swirling greens, purples, and blues. Lapland stands out as a prime viewing spot due to its position above the Arctic Circle, minimal light pollution, and clear nights from September to March.

Legends among the indigenous Sámi people portray the auroras as ancestral spirits, inspiring reverence and silence in their presence. Visitors often join guided tours from bases like Rovaniemi or Saariselkä, equipped with thermal suits for comfort during extended vigils. For an extraordinary twist, try aurora ice floating on frozen lakes, where you drift in survival gear while gazing upward.

• Best spots: Utsjoki, Inari, Levi for remote skies.
• Tips: Check forecasts via apps; stay in glass igloos for uninterrupted views.
• Duration: Peaks align with new moon phases for optimal darkness.

Immerse in Rovaniemi’s Year-Round Christmas Magic

Rovaniemi, Santa Claus’s official hometown, buzzes with festive cheer beyond December. Straddling the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village welcomes all ages to meet the man in red, send stamped postcards from the on-site post office, and ride reindeer sleighs.

Year-round attractions include SantaPark, a magical cave with elf workshops, gingerbread baking, and immersive shows. Families adore whispering wishes in Santa’s grotto, while adults appreciate the surrounding wilderness for snowmobiling or husky sledding. In summer, the midnight sun replaces snow with berry picking and river rafting.

Paddling Through the Heart of Finnish Lakeland

Eastern Finland’s Lakeland boasts around 55,000 lakes, creating a watery labyrinth of forests and islands. Lake Saimaa, with the world’s longest lake coastline, serves as an ideal hub for kayaking or canoeing amid deserted bays and wildlife.

Spot the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, otters, or elk while navigating channels. Guided tours from Savonlinna or Punkaharju include campfire dinners under starry skies. For hikers, Linnansaari National Park offers the 7km Pieni Karhunjärvi trail, weaving through cliffs, echoes, and lean-to shelters.

• Access: Rent gear in cottages; no permit needed for day trips.
• Best time: Summer for seals, winter for ice fishing.

Venture into Urho Kekkonen National Park’s Wilderness

Spanning 2,550 sq km, Urho Kekkonen is Finland’s largest national park, a haven for hikers and skiers east of Saariselkä toward Russia. Traverse ancient pine forests, birch groves, and fells like the mythical 486m Korvatunturi, linked to Santa lore.

Multi-day treks follow marked trails with huts for overnight stays (first-come basis). Cross brooks, summit ridges for panoramic views, and embrace ‘everyman’s right’—the freedom to roam, camp wild, and forage berries. Winter brings 200km of ski routes through powder snow.

Wildlife includes reindeer, bears, and wolverines; pack bear spray and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Experience Finland’s Revitalizing Sauna Traditions

Saunas number over 3 million in Finland—one per two people—rooted in cleansing rituals dating millennia. Public saunas like Helsinki’s Löyly offer wood-fired steam with sea plunges, embodying the hot-cold cycle for relaxation and recovery.

In Lapland, smoke saunas follow traditional heating without chimneys, filling with birch-scented vapor. Pair with ice swimming in frozen lakes for an adrenaline rush, as in Kuopio or Helsinki. Modern designs by architects like Alvar Aalto blend into nature, enhancing light and landscape interplay.

• Types: Electric, wood, smoke; always nude or towel-clad.
• Etiquette: Shower before, cool off between rounds.

Delight in Moominvalley Worlds and Whimsy

Tove Jansson’s Moomins enchant with hippo-like trolls in storybook tales. Naantali’s Moominworld spans an island with houses, caves, trails, and theater—perfect for kids to explore.

Tampere’s Moomin Museum houses original sketches, dioramas, and interactive exhibits delving into the creator’s life. Fans wander Hattifatteners’ paths or join themed cruises on Lake Saimaa, blending fantasy with Finland’s serene backdrop.

Ski and Snowboard Across Lapland’s Powder Paradise

Levi and Ylläs shine for uncrowded slopes with reliable snow from November to May. Over 230km of Levi pistes cater to all levels, plus off-piste for experts. Ylläs offers 400km of cross-country trails amid fells.

Rovaniemi provides family-friendly hills with night skiing under auroras. Après-ski features Lappish cuisine like reindeer stew in cozy kota huts.

Forage Berries and Savor Wild Harvests

Finland’s forests yield free everyman’s bounty: cloudberries in Ranua bogs, lingonberries, and mushrooms. Join guided picks to learn identification, then bake pies or infuse liquors.

Ranua’s Arctic Circle vibes pair foraging with wildlife parks housing bears and wolves.

Explore Historic Sea Fortresses and Archipelagos

Helsinki’s Suomenlinna UNESCO fortress sprawls over islands, reachable by ferry. Wander tunnels, bastions, and museums chronicling naval history.

Turku Archipelago’s 40,000 islands beckon kayakers through skerries, spotting seals and eagles. Hike to the Three-Country Cairn in Kilpisjärvi, tripoint of Finland, Sweden, Norway.

Uncover Architectural Marvels and Design Icons

Helsinki blends Gothic spires like the Cathedral with modern gems: Oodi Library, Amos Rex’s undulating roof, Temppeliaukio’s rock church. Porvoo’s wooden old town charms with cafes.

Alvar Aalto’s influence shines in Tampere and Jyväskylä buildings harmonizing with nature.

FAQs

What is the best time for northern lights in Finland?

September to March, with peak activity in late winter; clear, cold nights ideal.

Is wild camping allowed in Finland?

Yes, under everyman’s right: tent one night, 150m from homes, no fires in dry seasons.

How many saunas are in Finland?

Over 3 million, integral to social life.

Can I see Santa Claus anytime?

Yes, Rovaniemi’s village operates 365 days.

What’s the largest lake in Finland?

Saimaa, spanning 4,400 sq km with extensive coastline.