Northern Lights

The tourist attractions in Finland cover a wide range of interests, hereby there will be plenty to see and do. When it comes to the Nature, the best thing to do is to witness Finnish Northern Lights, the prime attraction to see here.

Winter is the best time to admire the breathtaking scenery of the Nature. The best place to see the Northern Lights is Lapland region; the birthplace of Santa, which is situated within the boundaries of the Arctic Circle, that’s why the lights are best seen exactly in this adventurous place. Various Finnish tours include Northern Lights as one of the main and most attractive things to do while you are in Finland.

Lakes and Rivers

Many lakes and rivers in Finland are open from May to September. You will visit many majestic places and feel closer to the Nature. There are countless opportunities to enjoy some of the Finland sights from a unique perspective. Besides, the different trips also include visiting Helsinki and Turku; two fascinating cities famous throughout the world.

National Parks

There are over 35 National Parks in Finland, Archipelago National Park being most popular among them. It’s listed in UNESCO world heritage. During summer the number of visitors increases but you can also enjoy the park hiking trials in late spring.

Castles in Finland

If you want to explore Finnish history and culture deeper, the best way is to visit the stylish and medieval castles representing different centuries and the development course of various civilizations. The amazing art values you will see in castles and cathedrals will make you feel the soul and the lifestyle of Finnish people who are always happy to welcome you in their snowy country. Most of the castles are open and there is no entrance fee, so it’s a must to be part of different rituals and ceremonies, and just explore a piece of culture.

Finland is always happy to welcome you!

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4

Savonlinna Opera Festival.

Finland has 190,000 lakes, rivers and coastline inlets. Most of Finland is heavily wooded. The natural beauty is an unending vista of nature and the environment at its best.

Savonlinna is a city occupying three islands located on an inland lake. This spectacularly beautiful area was favored by Russian royalty for many years. Originally renown for natural beauty and spa treatments, Savonlinna became popular, in 1912, for its annual Opera Festival. In 2012, the festival will be held from 5 July through 4 August. The Savonlinna Opera Festival is held each year in the courtyards of the Olavinnlinna Castle, built in the early 16th century. For lovers of nature and opera, this is a “must visit” festival. For many this location and event are high on their lifetime bucket list. To tie everything together, stay at the accommodations favored by festival attendees. The Hotel Rauhalinna, just a few miles away from Savonlinna is a destination in its own right.

Summer Chamber Music and Glass Art Works Festival

During the first ten days of June, the city of Riihimaki holds chamber music concerts, as part of the festival. Some of the best concerts are at night in the Finnish Glass Museum, Hall for Exhibitions. This venue allows festival attendees to enjoy both music and Finnish works of art, in glass.

Near Sodyankla is the Midnight Sun Film Festival. This is certainly one of the most unusual film events in the world. Important International and Finnish films are shown out of doors, in the magic of the dim midnight sun. If they show this years big BAFTA hit, The Artist the evening should be surreal with the midnight sun playing on the quite and silent screen of the Artist.

There are also Art Festivals, Kids Festivals, Food Festivals and Music Festivals of many different types. If travelling to Finland for one of the festivals mentioned above, make sure you arrange cheap travel insurance before you depart on your Finnish festival adventure.

Before seeing what events the country offers, let’s talk about the summer weather. Finnish summer is unique and original. After the cold and strong winter during which the snow on the ground can remain for up to 90 to 120 days, a mild summer format is well deserved and comes along.

Festival in Turku

If you happen to visit Finland in summer, you must take part in Finnish famous festivals quite popular not only with the inhabitants but also among the tourists. For example, world-known art city Turku becomes a summer exhibition center during this period and the street culture becomes more and more popular along the banks of the River Aura.

A vampire circus is planned to visit Turku called the Cirque Dracuk at the Palace. This is part of a 10 day circus theme and event, which ends with elements near the River Aura on the Night of Ancient Bonfires. The Festival consists of opera at the Turku castle, jazz at Suomen Joutsen old sailing ship and all this ends with Tall Ship Races on the river Aura, which moors at the public dock for spectating.

Finnish relaxing lakes

Finland is the home of alluring lakes giving you an excellent opportunity to dive in summer activities and enjoy spectacular and breathtaking scenery of the Nature. You can take a ship and organize a nice picnic in family-friendly atmosphere at the same time getting pleasure with the amazing beauty of surroundings.

Finland is tourism’s diamond in the rough when it comes to outdoor life. Among the tourists and locals Nature walks, hiking and fishing what both tourists and local residents love doing in Finland. I’d even say they are a most favorite activity.

Shopping

Many big cities offer a range of different shopping centers with big sales. There are special fairs, where you can buy almost everything you wish. And don’t forget that you are abroad, so consider buying typical Finnish souvenirs for friends and relatives.

Out of the many countries in the world Finland stands out with unique beauty and culture. So visit this cold but at the same time warm country, where you will fully relax and enjoy a most beautiful summer without cursing the annoying hot weather.

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4

The Sauna Open Air Metal Festival

Usually referred to just as Sauna, the Sauna Open Air Metal Festival is Finland’s largest open-air metal festival. It takes place every June in Eteläpuisto Park, in the city of Tampere in Southern Finland.

The first Sauna Open Air Festival took place in June 2004 and the event now attracts thousands of metal enthusiasts. 2011 saw over 26,000 people flock to Tampere for the eighth Sauna Festival.

The line-up for Sauna never fails to impress metal fans. Recent performers have included well-known acts such as Judas Priest, Ozzy Osbourne and Twisted Sister. Details of the next festival have yet to be released, but the event is bound to be a sell-out.

The Savonlinna Opera Festival

The Savonlinna Opera Festival takes place in the beautiful medieval setting of Olavlinna Castle every July. Savonlinna is a truly magical event, celebrating the best of Finnish and international opera.

Established in 1912, by Finnish soprano Aino Ackté, it is celebrating its centenary this year with special jubilee program. In addition to classic operas, visitors will also have the privilege of attending not one but two world premieres this summer.

With its unusually varied selection of stunning operatic performances, the Savonlinna Opera Festival is a must-see for opera fanatics from across the globe.

The Kaustinen Folk Music Festival

The Kaustinen Folk Music Festival is a major folk music and dance festival held annually in July in the town of Kaustinen in central Finland.

The program for the festival is organized by theme and is based around a different country each year. Folk music and dance traditions from the chosen country combine with traditional and contemporary Finnish folk music, creating a diverse and exciting line-up.

The festival typically selects a folk band of the year to headline at the festival. In 2012, the band of the year is the Sibelius Academy Folk Big Band.

The Lantern Festival

Also known as Shan Yua, the Lantern Festival in the Finnish capital of Helsinki is a large public celebration, held at the end of the Chinese New Year festivities.

The event takes place on the fifteenth day of the first month of the Chinese calendar, following the Chinese tradition in which children go out with paper lanterns at night, to celebrate the New Year.

The Lantern Festival is also popular with fans of oriental cuisine and there is plenty of tasty Chinese food on offer. The rice dumplings are a traditional Chinese New Year delicacy and are not to be missed! Book early as hotels and guest houses fill up fast at this time of year.

Espoo Ciné

Fans of the big screen may be familiar with Espoo Ciné, Finland’s largest international film festival. Launched in 1990, this festival takes place every July in Espoo, Finland’s second-largest city.

Espoo Cine places the emphasis on European cinema, showing a mixture of short films and full-length feature movies. The festival is a member of the European Fantastic Film Festivals Federation and is a firm favourite with fans of fantasy films.

It also screens movies based around selected themes, such as lesbian and gay cinema or political films. Open-air screenings in the suburb of Tapiola have proved especially popular with those attending.

Choose a sunny day because these kind of tours are provided only when it’s sunny.They don’t work on rainy days. The “walking trip” starts from Senate Square and comes to its end at Helsinki Railway Station.

The Senate Square is situated in front of the Russian tzar Alexander II monument. One of the most astonishing and historical squares of Helsinki was designed in 1800s at the height of the Russian Empire’s fascination with the architectural glories of ancient Greece and Rome. There is not much to see here but walking around is quite pleasant. You are given a unique chance to visit the Lutheran Cathedral as well; a typical Finnish castle with four small cupolas ringing its central dome. This elegant building represents a piece of Finnish culture.

Afterwards, visit the Library of the University of Helsinki. Some critics say it is the most beautiful building created by Engel. Standing like a stone lady it warmly welcomes people. It’s considered the most visited library in Helsinki.

The tour also includes visiting Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, which alsowas again designed by Engel in 1827. With its nice ocher-colored facade  it looks most charming.

Kaisaniemi Park is a track of waterfront land and is the favorite place of many inhabitants of Helsinki. The Park includes the Botanical Gardens of the Helsinki University. The natural atmosphere and the amazing surroundings will definitely attract you. Don’t you want to have a crazy picnic here? I would love to!

There are numerous of cafes at the Railway station where you can take a break and taste something original and Finnish. You will love it.

We wish you an unforgettable walk in Helsinki!

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4

Guided Tours in Finland

To see as much as possible and to get the most out of this magical getaway, the best way is to make use of a guided tour in Finland. Available in Finnish, Swedish, English, German and Russian, Finland guided tours and natural expeditions will take you very close to both natural and man-made wonders of the country, making your vacation an intriguing and awe-inspiring adventure.

From Polar Safari Adventure (6 days/5nights), where you’ll have the unique opportunity for an icebreaker cruise, to the thrilling Magic of Lapland (4 days/3 nights), where you’ll visit Lapland’s main attractions in their winter coats and be amazed by the kaleidoscopic Aurora Borealis, to Scenes of the North (14 days/ 13 nights), promising splendid scenery and dynamic capital cities, you’ll experience the ultimate in terms of sightseeing, fun and relaxation. In a nutshell, guided tours in Finland are sure to set your imagination running. The maximum recommended group is 25.

Car Driving in Finland

If you are more of an independent sightseer, then renting a car (with car insurance, of course,) is the perfect way to accomplish your own version of Finland travel. In case you insurance is expired, you can also take advantage of buying renew car insurance online.

Compared to downtown Manhattan, driving in Finland is truly a stress-free, relaxing and enjoyable experience with much to offer the visitors. The only thing you should do is to get the country’s map and abide by Finland’s law of driving. The three things you must have with you are: your driving license, vehicle registration document and certificate of motor insurance.

Driving in Finland in winter months can be hazardous and icy road conditions are common. Snow tyres are a legal requirement between December to February and engine heaters are strongly recommended. The most interesting thing about driving in Finland is that you’ll see a variety of wild animals on your way, like deer, fox, rabbits, moose, etc. Remember! If you hit an elk or deer in Finland make sure to report it to the police.

Vacation during Off-Peak Periods

Taking a travel vacation during the busy times of the year would cost you a lot of money. To keep the costs down, and to avoid crowds, plan a vacation during the off-peak season. Cheaper airfare and accommodation, more cultural events and fun – this really sounds fantastic. Cheap flights to Finland are easily found during the winter months when the darkness looms earlier in the day. But as far as tourist attractions in Finland cover a wide range of interests, you’ll definitely enjoy a memorable holiday.

Photo credits to 1,2,3,4,5

Club Helsinki

Club Helsinki is very popular and one of the most visited places of the Finnish capital both among the inhabitants and tourists. This old and legendary club is situated in the main shopping district in the very heart of Helsinki. It was opened in 1971 and since then became the venue where the best nightlife of Helsinki is guaranteed. The music of the best European DJs and the wild but very attractive surroundings inspire many young people who like visiting this place and enjoy dancing on a very huge dance floor.

People organize various events such as birthday parties or launches, fashion shows and press conferences there. So this club is not only for the young generation, but also for senior and serious people.

Molly Malone’s

This bar was chosen as one of the best 50 Irish bars in Europe. the visitors themselves confirm its being the best and most attractive bar in Helsinki. The club offers its visitors three bars blessed with subtle drinks, dance floors and rocking music, and the best Irish happy atmosphere in the heart of Helsinki. It is a must see attraction in Helsinki. If you are in search of tranquility and peace, you can have a sit at the bar. If you are looking for noisy dancing and music, here you are; everything is prepared for any kind of taste. The bar decoration is in Irish style, hereby you will not find a big difference between Dublin and Helsinki bars.

So the only thing you have to do is to go out and enjoy the Finnish nights embellished with thousand lights and adventures. Helsinki is one of the most popular Scandinavian cities boasting of wide range fashionable clubs and bars with special and unique offers.

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4

Cafe Ekberg

It’s worth mentioning that one of the oldest Helsinki cafes Cafe Ekberg has become the favorite place of many inhabitants and tourists. Established in 1852 it presents unique and old Finnish culture. The cafe is very stylish and well-designed; you can taste yummy pastries and cakes here. The cafe is full of old ladies enjoying their morning coffee and teens having breakfast or lunch.

Many people love Ekberg because it’s close to various attractions. Other than that, the staff is always smiling and that creates a warmer atmosphere. Ekberg has an outdoor cafe from where you can follow the hustle and bustle of the Helsinki summer. Ekberg has also a small shop where they offer gourmet food. The cafe is closed at summer weekends, so you have to look for another place on those days.

Cafe Carusel

Cafe Carusel is situated in Kaivopuisto Park and is one of the most popular venues in Helsinki. This is also a much visited place because of the breathtaking sea scenery. The evenings here become spectacular and exotic because you can take a sit at a small table with candles and admire the incredible sea view. At summertime Carusel offers its visitors live blues on Thursday evenings. Carusel is more like a bar and here the food is served in Spanish style, and most importantly, the prices will not shock you.

Cafe Summer Edge

Cafe Summer Edge is located in the inner yard of the Bock House and the City hall. The cafe offers homemade cakes and different flavored teas and coffees. It’s an ideal place for morning breakfasts or afternoon talks.

Make your summer awesome and unforgettable visiting one of the most beautiful cities of Scandinavia. Helsinki will warmly welcome you offering countless opportunities to enjoy every minute of your stay. Bonnee Voyage to Helsinki!

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4,5

Public transport in the city is affordable and comprehensive. There is a complex network of buses, subway trains, commuter rail lines and trams that will give you access to all areas of the city quickly and efficiently.

Malmi and Helsinki airports serve the city, with more flights heading to the larger public airport of Helsinki located 12 miles north of downtown Helsinki.

Helsinki has many restaurants, catering to a wide variety of tastes. The most popular restaurants are Café Engel, Klippan, Tori and Café Delicato. These are all popular with locals and tourists alike and can offer you either fine dining or delicious light snacks.

For culture lovers visiting Helsinki, a trip to the National Museum of Finland is a must. Guiding you through the 500-year history of the city, the museum has exhibits ranging in age from the prehistoric to modern day. The museum is housed in a striking neo-medieval castle.

Another attraction of those interested in art is the National Gallery, which is home to many sculptures and paintings from Finnish artists ranging from as late as the 1950s to as early as the 18th century. There are fine pieces of work from artists such as Pekka Halonen, Akseli Gallen-Kallela and Albert Edelfelt. You will also find pieces from internationally renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rodin and Cezanne.

For a really tranquil and relaxing time in Helsinki, take a short ferry ride to the island of Suomenlinna, which is dominated by the ruins of the once great fortress that stood on the island. After viewing the ruins, it is a perfect place to take a picnic or try out one of the many small cafes.

The beautiful Uspenski Cathedral is located on the island of Katajanokka and is a great place to visit if you are interested in architecture. The cathedral was constructed in 1868 in the Byzantine-Slavonic style and is an Eastern Orthodox Church. If you visit the cathedral on a Sunday afternoon, you will be able to watch one of the candlelit services.

For those only in Helsinki for a short space of time, the many Helsinki city tours can provide a good trip around all of the main sights to see in the city. In the summer, the tours run between 10.00am and 2.00pm and take you on a one-and-a-half-hour excursion that will give you a view of the most spectacular attraction of the city. You can also get a running commentary in English.

The Seurasaari Open Air Museum is open daily and gives you the chance to see traditional outhouses, manors and 18th- and 19th-century Finnish houses. Situated on a small island not far from the centre of Helsinki, the museum also has guides wearing traditional dress who will show you how Finnish people danced, wove threads and embroidered blankets.

For the more adventurous traveller, the Itakeskus Swimming Hall is an underground bomb shelter carved from solid rock that has been converted into a swimming complex.

The Linnanmaki Amusement Park is a great visitor attraction for those who are travelling with children, or who wish to free their own inner child. The park has roller coasters and other rides and every night there is a firework display. The park donates all its profits to organisations that help children in need.

During the summer months cycling is a good way to get around Helsinki and the islands. One of the best ways to do this is to use Green Bike, a firm that rents bicycles either by the day or week at a cost between 15 and 60 Euros.

For dedicated shoppers, downtown Helsinki has everything you might wish for. Along with the usual fashion outlets and well-known brands there is a surprising large number of music and book stores. The most popular of these are Disndat Records and Academic Books, which have much to offer those with wide-ranging musical and reading tastes.

If you are looking for some night-time entertainment, then the Ooppera Talo often features the Finnish National Opera, along with other classical music and ballet performances.

For those with slightly less high-brow tastes there is Rymy Eetu, a traditional Bavarian beer house, or Hartwell Arena, where major ice-hockey matches are played. There are also many pubs and nightclubs located around the university area of the city.

Seurasaari is a very famous Open-Air Museum located on a green and beautiful island just fifteen minutes by tramway from the city center. It’s a calm and fantastic oasis where you can see many typical Finnish cottages and explore the traditional life of Finnish provinces. The Museum gives a great opportunity to the visitors to admire the breathtaking view of the scene of this fairytale and admire the glaring view of the Nature listening to the warm conversations of squirrels and the happy singing of birds. Seurasaari Museum was founded in 1909 and it represents old Finnish life through wooden buildings coming from 18th to 20th centuries. Nowadays there are over 87 separate buildings at this museum. You can also attend various shopping centers where you can buy Finnish souvenirs and various items. The museum is open from May 15 till September 15. It’s closed in winter.

Karuna church built in 1685 is one of the most renowned churches in Helsinki and it’s mostly known due to original and amazing wedding ceremonies. So if you are planning to organize something unique and perfect for your wedding, here you are. The banquet hall of the church decorated and furnished both in antique and modern styles, a big chandelier blessed with thousands of lights and the world-class service will definitely satisfy you.

Nordic Walking is recommended to everyone who visits this place; it will bring you closer to the Nature. There are special tours each offering different hours for Nordic Walking: from 2 hours to 3 or more. The prices vary — they start at 39 euros for adults and at 5 euros for kids. During your walking you can have a cup of coffee at Cafe Angelina.

If you ask Finnish people where to go to feel a real Finland and take a piece of this wonderful country, they will surely recommend you Seurasaari Museum, because here everything is Finnish. We wish you a productive tour in this open-air museum and hope you will enjoy your being there to your heart’s content!

Photos credits to 1,2,3,4