Finland, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” is a Nordic country located in Northern Europe. It may not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of travel destinations, but Finland offers a unique experience that is unlike any other. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, rich culture, or a peaceful getaway, Finland has something for everyone. If you’re wondering why you should consider visiting this northern gem, here’s a comprehensive guide that explains why Finland should be on your travel bucket list.
1. Stunning Natural Beauty
Finland is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, including vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged coastlines. The country’s natural beauty is one of the primary reasons why people from around the world travel to Finland.
Key Natural Attractions:
- The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): One of Finland’s most magical experiences is witnessing the Northern Lights, especially in Lapland, the northernmost part of the country. These colorful displays of lights in the sky are caused by solar winds and can be seen on dark, clear nights from September to March.
- Thousand Lakes: Finland boasts over 188,000 lakes, making it a haven for water lovers. Popular lakes like Lake Saimaa offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming in serene, unspoiled nature.
- Forests and National Parks: With about 75% of Finland covered in forests, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. National parks like Nuuksio and Oulanka are ideal for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting.
- Midnight Sun: In the summer, the sun stays up for almost 24 hours in the northern parts of Finland. The phenomenon, known as the Midnight Sun, allows for long days of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoying nature.
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2. A Safe and Peaceful Destination
Finland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Its low crime rate, friendly locals, and stable government make it a very peaceful destination, especially for solo travelers or families with children.
Why Finland is Safe:
- Low Crime Rates: Finland has an extremely low crime rate compared to many other countries. Walking around in cities like Helsinki or smaller towns feels safe, even late at night.
- Safe Public Transportation: Whether you’re traveling by bus, train, or tram, Finland’s public transportation is reliable and safe.
- Friendly Locals: Finns are known for being kind, helpful, and respectful. Although they may seem reserved at first, most people in Finland speak English and are more than happy to assist visitors.
3. Unique Finnish Culture and Traditions
Finnish culture is deeply rooted in traditions that are unique to the country. From the famous Finnish sauna to quirky festivals, there are plenty of cultural experiences that set Finland apart from other destinations.
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Cultural Highlights:
- Sauna: The sauna is an essential part of Finnish life. There are more than 3 million saunas in Finland, which means nearly every home has one. Visiting a sauna is a must-do experience when in Finland, offering a chance to relax and detox. Many Finns jump into a cold lake or roll in the snow after a sauna session—don’t worry, it’s all part of the fun!
- Finnish Festivals: Finland has some fascinating festivals, including the Midnight Sun Film Festival, which celebrates films all night long under the midnight sun, and the Wife-Carrying World Championships, a quirky competition where men race while carrying their wives on their backs.
- Sami Culture: The indigenous Sami people live in Finland’s northern region, Lapland. Visitors can learn about their culture, language, and traditional livelihoods such as reindeer herding.
4. Modern Cities and Architecture
Finland’s cities, particularly Helsinki, offer a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Finnish architecture is also renowned for its minimalist style and use of natural materials.
City Highlights:
- Helsinki: The capital city of Finland is a vibrant hub of art, design, and history. Visit the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, walk along the bustling Market Square, or explore the Design District. Helsinki also has several museums, including the Ateneum Art Museum and the National Museum of Finland, where you can dive into the country’s history.
- Turku: As Finland’s oldest city, Turku offers a glimpse into the country’s medieval past with its well-preserved Turku Castle and the beautiful Turku Cathedral. It’s a great destination for history buffs.
- Tampere: Known for its industrial heritage and surrounded by lakes, Tampere is a lively cultural city that blends history with modern urban life.
- Modern Architecture: Finland is home to world-renowned architects like Alvar Aalto, and the country’s modern architecture is an attraction in itself. From churches to libraries, Finland’s architecture often emphasizes clean lines, functionality, and a strong connection to nature.
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You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
5. Winter Wonderland and Activities
If you love winter, Finland is a dream come true. In the colder months, Finland transforms into a snow-covered wonderland offering various winter activities.
Popular Winter Experiences:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Finland has excellent ski resorts like Levi and Ylläs, where you can enjoy both downhill and cross-country skiing.
- Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of energetic huskies through snow-covered landscapes. This is an iconic winter activity in Lapland.
- Ice Fishing: In many of Finland’s lakes, ice fishing is a traditional winter pastime. Tourists can join in this unique activity by drilling a hole in the ice and fishing for local species like perch and pike.
- Santa Claus Village: Finland is home to the “official” Santa Claus, and you can visit him at Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland. This magical destination is perfect for families and anyone who loves Christmas.
6. Sustainability and Clean Environment
Finland is a global leader in environmental sustainability, with a strong focus on protecting its pristine natural environment. The air in Finland is among the cleanest in the world, and the country is famous for its eco-friendly practices.
Environmental Initiatives:
- Green Cities: Finland’s cities are designed with sustainability in mind. Public transportation is efficient, and bike-friendly streets are common. In Helsinki, for example, you can explore the city using e-scooters or electric buses.
- Nature Conservation: Finland is committed to conserving its natural beauty. National parks are well-maintained, and the country has strong policies to protect wildlife and forests.
- Recycling and Clean Energy: Recycling is a part of everyday life in Finland, and the country generates most of its electricity from renewable energy sources like hydropower, wind, and bioenergy.
7. Culinary Delights
Finnish cuisine is simple yet delicious, with a focus on fresh and local ingredients. Seafood, wild berries, mushrooms, and game meats are popular in traditional Finnish dishes.
Must-Try Finnish Foods:
- Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian Pie): A pastry filled with rice porridge or mashed potatoes, typically eaten with egg butter.
- Ruisleipä (Rye Bread): Finland is known for its hearty rye bread, which is a staple of Finnish meals.
- Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup): A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and leeks, perfect for cold days.
- Korvapuusti (Cinnamon Roll): Finland’s version of the cinnamon roll, usually enjoyed with coffee during “kahvihetki” (coffee time).
- Wild Berries: Finland’s forests are abundant with wild berries, such as lingonberries, cloudberries, and blueberries. They’re used in everything from jams to desserts.
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You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
8. Wildlife and Adventure
Finland’s untouched wilderness is home to some incredible wildlife. If you’re an animal lover or adventure seeker, Finland has plenty to offer.
Wildlife and Adventure:
- Reindeer and Huskies: Lapland is known for its reindeer and husky farms, where you can meet and interact with these animals.
- Bear Watching: Finland’s forests are home to brown bears, and you can join guided bear-watching tours for a chance to see these magnificent creatures in the wild.
- Adventure Sports: In the summer, Finland is great for outdoor activities like canoeing, mountain biking, and hiking.
Finland is an underrated travel destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn by the peaceful landscapes, rich culture, thrilling winter activities, or vibrant cities, Finland offers experiences that are unforgettable. Its safety, sustainability, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for travelers of all ages and interests. So, whether you’re planning a solo trip, a family vacation, or a cultural tour, Finland should be at the top of your travel list.
Start planning your adventure to Finland today and experience the magic of this beautiful northern country for yourself!
For more information, you can speak to Happy Face
You can also get a comprehensive guide on how to travel to Finland for free here
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