finland 2012 tourism

• Travel, Tourism & Hospitality

Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in Finland 2012-2028

Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in finland from 2012 to 2028 (in 1,000 jobs).

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Europe, Finland

2012 to 2018

* Estimate. ** Forecast. Data includes direct, indirect and induced impacts.

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Accommodation

International visitor arrivals in Finland 2022, by country of origin

Leisure Travel

Visitor arrivals in Helsinki 2022, by country of origin

Number of arrivals in tourist accommodation in Finland 2012-2022

Number of international arrivals in tourist accommodation in Finland 2012-2022

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Finnish-ing touches: all you need to know before your trip to Finland

Apr 24, 2022 • 9 min read

In Finland, the sauna is a way of life – and an essential experience for any visitor © Jonathan Stokes / Lonely Planet

Finland is the kind of place a child with a particularly vivid imagination might dream up, complete with flying reindeer, the real Santa and so much snow.

It’s a place of extremes – of darkness and light, of bitter cold and unfathomable wilderness. And it’s bound to be right up there with your Nordic dream destinations, whether you’ve come to dash through frozen forests by husky-drawn sleigh as the Northern Lights flash overhead in Lapland, or hunker down in a back-of-beyond summer cottage on the shores of a placid lake in the undying light of summer.

If you love saunas, silence and nature, you’ll fit right in. Here are the things to know to help you plan and prepare your trip and stay safe and healthy in Finland. 

Planning your trip to Finland

Consider arriving outside of helsinki.

Helsinki is the country’s principal gateway, though if you’re coming to Finalnd for a non-urban adventure you might consider flying into a regional airport like Rovaniemi (gateway to Lapland and Santa HQ) or Tampere (gateway to the lakes) instead. Once you’re in Finland, public transport is pretty good and efficient, with trains and buses joining the dots between major cities and towns. But if you’re heading into the wilds, you should count on renting a car, as distances are vast. Pack drinks and snacks for the journey as there’s little in the way of services between hubs.

The roads that sweep north to Lapland are often empty, but you’ll need to watch out for reindeer (the Porokello app warns of high-risk reindeer-crash areas) and ice in winter. 

Summers are for primeval pleasures; winters are for festive magic 

Finland is too big for just one bite, so plan carefully and resist the temptation to cram everything into one trip. 

Summer, you say? The Finns would agree: after long, dark, snowbound winters, they embrace the lighter days of summer with a truly biological urgency. June to August is a brilliant period for hiking and camping in wilderness areas like the reindeer-bobbled fells of Urho Kekkonen National Park in Northern Lapland , above the Arctic Circle. It’s also a great time to jump into a kayak to paddle the Lakeland (there are 188,000), waving to seals as you drift from one gorgeous little speck of an island to the next in Åland on the Baltic. 

Summer is when Finns tiptoe away from the world and back to nature in middle-of-nowhere cottages, some of which are totally off the grid. Days are spent in gleefully primeval ways: foraging for berries, swimming in ice-cold lakes, relaxing in saunas and spending nights under a canopy of stars. The climax is Juhannus , or midsummer, in late June, when families come together for picnics and dancing around bonfires. 

September is quiet and glorious in Lapland, with forests turning gold and crimson and reindeer beginning to rut. As snow arrives in October, a hush falls over the land and many sights and hotels close. But winter brings festive sparkle and visits to Santa in the Arctic north. As the days get shorter, you’ll enjoy the full-on Narnia effect, with dogsledding, snowmobiling, skiing and overnight stays in ice hotels . Get lucky in Lapland and you’ll see the Northern Lights come out to play (statistically October, November and March are best).

Keep costs down by eating at markets and camping

Finland isn’t cheap, but there are ways to cut costs and save a few euros. Make lunch your main meal of the day, as many restaurants and cafes serve a good-value all-you-can-eat lunch buffet that includes soups, salads and day specials. Most big towns also have a ​​ kauppahalli (covered market hall), where you can grab picnic fixings (breads, cheeses, deli produce, smoked fish) and graze at one of the stalls or cafes selling snacks.

Camping is an inexpensive way to travel around. Most campsites are excellent, with cabins to rent as well as plenty of space to pitch a tent – but they tend to only open from June to August. If you’re willing to forego the warm shower, you can wild-camp thanks to jokamiehenoikeus (everyman’s right) – a great (if adventurous) option in a country with 41 national parks and almost endless expanses of nature. 

Etiquette in Finland: how to fit in with the locals

Keep things casual .

Even in the heart of Helsinki, you can just tell that the Finns are craving the space and solace of the great outdoors, counting down the minutes and hours until they can give civilization the slip and escape to their mökki (summer cottage). The way they dress reflects their nature-loving spirit: casual, practical, sustainable and well suited to the extremes of the seasons. There’s no need to pack lots of fancy clothes, especially if you’re heading beyond the city (as you most likely are). Pack loose layers, thermals and sturdy walking shoes instead. 

Say hello, Finnish style

Kissing on the cheek? No. As a nation that prizes extreme apartness, Finns are a touch more reserved when it comes to greetings. Making eye contact and shaking hands is pretty standard; friends and family tend to hug. “ Hei ” and “ moi ” are two ways to say “hello.” Repeat the latter twice (“ moi moi ”) and it doubles as goodbye. Oh, and remember to be punctual – the Finns always are.

Remember that silence is golden

The old “silence is golden” proverb never rings truer than in Finland. Deep and introspective, the Finns aren’t fans of idle chitchat. Silence here is rarely seen as awkward; if there’s nothing pertinent to say, that’s just fine. You’ll often see friends together in the sauna, silent, perfectly happy in each other’s quiet company. So if a conversation comes to a natural halt, don’t feel as though you have to fill in the gaps with small talk.

And if you’re planning on having a lively chat with your mates in the sauna, think again. In Finland, the sauna demands deep respect – legend even has it that if you behave immodestly, you’ll have to face the fury of the saunatonttu , or sauna elf, who might burn it down in fury.

Give the sauna a whirl – and take it seriously

Stripping naked, roasting in a sauna heated to 175°F (80°C), beating yourself with a circulation-boosting birch whisk (a vasta or vihta ), then diving into an avanto (ice hole): this is a Finn’s idea of fun. Sounds masochistic? This country has 1001 ways to toughen you up and the ritual of the sauna (pronounced “sah-OO-nah” rather than “SAW-nuh”) is just one of them. 

The sauna isn’t a luxury in Finland: it’s a way of life. Marriage, divorce, birth, death, new job: you name the life event and you can bet a sauna is involved. There are around three million saunas in Finland, in a country with a population of just 5.5 million. This is where the Finns socialize, do business, put the world to rights, rest, meditate and cleanse. Learning the art of sauna-going is offers a window into the country’s soul. 

Public saunas are nearly always separated by gender. To sauna like a Finn, shower first, get naked, keep quiet, take a towel to sit on and ladle water onto the stove to produce fragrant löyly (steam), taking care not to splash too freely. You should work up a sweat in around 15 minutes – but remember, it’s not a competition. Take frequent breaks and drink water to rehydrate.

Embrace the outlandish 

This isolated land of extremes has bred a nation of fiercely independent and idiosyncratic people. Squeaky cheese ( leipäjuusto ) you dunk in coffee, salty licorice ( salmiakki ), ice swimming, flying reindeer, Moomins: Finns love things that the rest of the world consider...odd. If you single out any of these quirky institutions for praise, you just might make friends for life here. This passion for the weird and wonderful extends to a crazy line-up of events, with world championships for everything from wife-carrying to air-guitar playing and swamp soccer.

Health and safety in Finland 

Green, clean and conscientious, Finland is incredibly safe. Still, it’s worth bearing a few things in mind to make sure you stay healthy and happy.

Bring the bug spray

Though not exactly a health risk, the swarms of blood-thirsty insects that descend on the country’s north in summer can be a real bugbear. The mosquitoes, sandflies, midges and horse flies are at their most ferocious in July, but all summer long you’ll need to go armed with strong repellent, especially around lakes and in swampy, densely forested areas. In the wilderness, there are plenty of remote huts where you can crash with a mat and sleeping bag, but bringing along your own tent generally offers more protection from the mosquito storms.

Besides repellent, you might want to bring along a mosquito cap or hat and a travel net to cover your bed or your tent flap to keep the pesky biters at bay.

If you encounter any health issues, you’ll be in good hands

Perhaps it’s the air, the crystal-clear water at the turn of a tap, the vast open spaces, the long forest hikes, or the immune system-boosting saunas and ice swims: Finland radiates good health like few other places on earth. And the country has some of the best health care in the world – so if you do get sick you’ll be in the very best hands. As with all the Nordic countries, the level of care is extraordinarily high and doctors and medical staff generally speak excellent English. 

There are specific travel vaccinations to worry about, though you’ll want to make sure you have decent travel insurance all the same, especially if you’re planning on a winter-sports extravaganza in Lapland or straying from the well-trodden-path in the wilds of a national park. 

If you’re a citizen of the EU, European Economic Area (EEA) or UK, you’re entitled to emergency medical treatment with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), though you will still have to pay a daily or per-appointment fee as a Finn would. Otherwise, look into whether your country has a reciprocal arrangement for free medical care in Finland. 

Keep an eye out in the wild

Beyond the cities, Finland is a wild, wild place. As with all extreme climates, there are the obvious risks of exposure, hypothermia and frostbite in the Arctic north, and rivers can be prone to flooding when the snow melts. It goes without saying that you should venture out well prepared with the right thermal gear if you are visiting Lapland in winter, when temperatures can plummet to a bitterly cold -22°F (-30°C). Always take a good map and compass, and inform someone of your whereabouts if you’re heading out into one of the vast national parks in the north. 

Predators like brown bears and wolves roam the forested wilds on the Russian border in the country’s east, though they generally mind their own business and pose no real threat.

You might also like: Capital gains: Helsinki on a budget Autumn in Finland: an alternative fall foliage tour Reindeer, bears and elusive seals: Finland’s finest wildlife experiences

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15 Best Places to Visit in Finland, From the Sauna Capital of the World to Santa Claus Village

From national parks and beautiful lakes to modern cities and the home of Santa Claus, these are the best places to visit in Finland.

Visit Finland

If you’re planning a trip to Finland, there’s a good chance seeing the northern lights is at the top of your list. During the winter months, Lapland, the country’s northernmost region, is known as one of the best places in the world to view the famed natural light display. Amazing as the experience may be, though, spotting the aurora borealis is just one of the many reasons to visit this Nordic country. 

Adventurous travelers and those who prefer fresh air to indoor activities will feel right at home in Finland. Nicknamed the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” the country has around 188,000 lakes, giving way to activities like ice fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, and cruising. Finland is also covered in lush forests and vast wilderness; in fact, there are 41 national parks, all of which showcase the diversity of Finnish landscapes, flora, and fauna. Spending time in the great outdoors is crucial to understanding Finland and what makes it so special — so be sure to save time in your itinerary for a trip to Lake Päijänne or Nuuksio National Park. “The everyday life is rather similar in all the Nordic countries, but I believe Finns appreciate silence and nature even more,” says Riitta Kiukas, CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour . “One hour in a forest every day keeps us happy.” Other places to search for the secret to Finnish happiness include Helsinki (the country’s capital), Rovaniemi (the home of Santa Claus), and any of the country’s traditional saunas. 

Consider giving yourself at least five to seven days to explore Finland. “Geographically, Finland is big, and distances are long. Therefore, I would recommend reserving a week at the minimum,” says Kiukas. And if you get lost or need help during your travels, don’t be afraid to ask a Finn for assistance. “I think one of the biggest misconceptions about Finland is that people are very reserved and cold. As that may be for some, most are truly nice and warm and willing to go a long way just to help somebody out,” says Eero Vottonen, chef of Palace , a Michelin-starred restaurant in Helsinki. 

Meet the Expert

Riitta Kiukas is the CEO of Active Holiday Finland by Skafur-Tour, a Finnish travel agency offering a number of tours and experiences. 

Eero Vottonen is the award-winning Finnish chef at Palace, a Helsinki restaurant that has earned two Michelin stars. 

Interested in learning more about what this Northern European country has to offer? Read on to discover the 15 best places to visit in Finland, according to locals. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit Finland for Outdoor Adventures, Northern Lights Viewing, and More

fotoVoyager/Getty Images

Not only is Helsinki the capital of Finland, but it’s also the gateway to discovering the rest of the country, particularly for international travelers. Like many European cities, Helsinki mixes history — it was founded in 1550 — with modern art, architecture, and a number of incredible restaurants and cafes. For a culturally rich experience, browse the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art , Design Museum , and Galerie Forsblom .

Åland Islands

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Around 6,700 islands make up the archipelago of Åland. Chef Vottonen notes its “beautiful scenery with a lot to explore,” particularly in the summertime. The autonomous region is ideal for island-hopping; the islands with permanent residents are connected by ferry. Not sure where to begin? Kiukas suggests Kökar, “a small island with a unique archipelago nature.” “Our clients just love everything there, and many cycle through the Åland Islands,” she says.

Eduardo Cabanas/Getty Images

Rovaniemi is the “Official Hometown of Santa Claus” and the capital of Lapland. Visitors make their way to the city’s Santa Claus Village — where you can meet the man himself — all year round, although it’s most popular during the holiday season. If you come to Rovaniemi in the summer, however, you’ll get to experience the midnight sun, the natural phenomenon where the sun doesn’t set. 

Related: How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Finnish Lapland — Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Included

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The sauna is central to Finnish culture, and Tampere holds the title of the “Sauna Capital of the World,” with the most public saunas (55 and counting) in Finland. Chef Vottonen describes his former hometown as having “the easiest and [most] chilled vibe.” Those interested in experiencing a traditional sauna should book a session at Rajaportti , the country’s oldest still-operating public sauna.

Nuuksio National Park

Joao Inacio/Getty Images

“Us Finns usually have a relationship with the wild or forest,” says Chef Vottonen. “Hiking or walking through one of [our] amazing national parks shows you the reason why. [They’re] usually very well maintained and with the possibility to reserve indoor sleeping.” Nuuksio National Park is easy to reach from Helsinki, and overnight travelers can reserve a cozy cabin to sleep in after a day of hiking, swimming, or cycling in the park.

Finmiki Images/Getty Images

The oldest city in Finland and the country’s former capital, Turku should be on every traveler’s radar, particularly if they’re interested in Nordic cuisine. Travel + Leisure journalist Tom Vanderbilt highlighted Smör and the Michelin-starred Kaskis in his guide to Turku , but there are a variety of other restaurants — and things to do — to fill your day in the riverside town. Most notably, there’s the 13th-century Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, and the open-air Market Square.

Kiukas adds Posio, “the most sustainable village in Finland,” to her list of the country’s best places to visit. Located in Lapland, Posio is great for “individuals and small groups searching for authentic experiences,” she says. The village is also the center of Finnish ceramic culture; Pentik , the world’s northernmost ceramic factory, and the Arctic Ceramic Centre both call Posio home.

Suomenlinna

Lindrik/Getty Images

You’ll find Suomenlinna , an 18th-century sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a group of islands near Helsinki. Chef Vottonen calls it a “must-visit in the summer,” and recommends travelers have “a picnic, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy the restaurants.” Those interested in the sea fortress’ history can learn more in the six different on-site museums .

Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is the largest lake district in Europe, and there are a variety of towns, villages, and bodies of water to explore in the region. Kiukas recommends starting with Hämeenlinna or Lahti, “southern Finnish towns so close to Helsinki that many travelers just pass by.” “This is where the lake district starts, and you can get a taste of country life — slow down and enjoy silence, lakes, and the nature around you,” she says.

Ranua Wildlife Park

Thomas O'Neill/NurPhoto via Getty Images

If you want to see a polar bear, lynx, arctic foxes, and a large variety of other arctic species, make your way to Ranua Wildlife Park , about an hour’s drive south of Rovaniemi. The animals live in enclosures in the midst of the northern coniferous forest, and the park is open year-round. 

MinttuFin/Getty Images

For a dose of Finnish history, Chef Vottonen recommends visiting Porvoo, the second oldest city in Finland. “[It’s] only a short drive from Helsinki by car,” he says, or travelers can “enjoy the boat ride… and see the beautiful coastline.” The Old Porvoo neighborhood is recognizable for its traditional red-painted wooden houses along the Porvoonjoki River, and its cobbled streets and quaint cafes create a picture-perfect scene for both travelers and locals alike. 

Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld/Getty Images

Winter sports enthusiasts will be interested in visiting Levi, the largest ski resort in Finland. Skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding, winter hiking, and snowshoeing are all available in Levi, and it’s also a great destination for seeing the northern lights. The light show is visible on most clear nights, but you can also take a guided tour to ensure you get the best views.  

Kiukas calls Varkaus a “hidden gem by Lake Saimaa,” and she says there’s a “contrast created by pure lake nature and industrial heritage.” Given its access to the surrounding lakes and canals, it’s a popular destination for those traveling by water. When not exploring the waterways, visitors can stop at the “Museum” of Mechanical Music (with purposeful quotation marks around “museum”), the Taipale Canal Museum , or the Väinölä Art Centre .

Lemmenjoki National Park

Harri Tarvainen/Visit Finland

The largest of Finland’s national parks, Lemmenjoki is known for its natural beauty and its history of gold prospecting. To explore the area, visitors can hike, canoe, or hop aboard a boat on the Lemmenjoki River. Travelers may also get a glimpse of the culture of the Indigenous Sámi people; the park features old housing and hunting grounds. 

Julia Kivela/Visit Finland

Kiukas suggests those traveling to Finland make a stop in Fiskars, an “example of an old industrial village now offering working spaces for artisans and artists.” Billed as a “home of creativity,” the village is the birthplace of Fiskars Corporation, the well-known Finnish company that makes cooking, gardening, and craft products — including the world's first plastic-handled scissors.

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We spend the Finnish Christmas and New Year 2018 in Lapland, Rovaniemi. Very lovely and magical atmosphere. We recommend.

Family Levy

We visited Finland in august 2017. Beautiful country and friendly people. We highly recommend renting a car and just traveling around the country. There is plenty to see.

Thomas Wright

Hossa National Park is definitely worth a visit. Finnish nature is so beautiful and clean. I'm crazy about Finland and we try to visit again as soon as it`s possible.

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Thursday, March 14, 2024 Favorite

Discover Finland ‘s magic: Northern Lights, vibrant cities, and endless nature. A top travel and tourism destination for an unforgettable experience.

Finland travel has become a magnet for travelers worldwide, celebrated for its breathtaking natural scenery, dense woodlands, myriad of lakes, and vibrant cultural scene. In the year 2018, the Finland tourism industry welcomed more than 6.8 million international visitors, with a significant number arriving from countries within the European Union, including Russia, Germany, and Sweden. Finland is distinguished by its numerous water bodies, pristine water quality, and the plethora of winter sports available, including Nordic and downhill skiing. Tourists are drawn to explore the lively urban areas of Finland, such as Helsinki, famed for its traditional seaside marketplace and the Suomenlinna sea fortress. Furthermore, the rich cultural traditions of Finland travel are highlighted in its various museums and art galleries spread across the nation.

By December 2023, the Finland tourism sector saw an uptick in tourism with approximately 0.31 million tourists marking their arrival, a substantial increase from the approximately 0.19 million tourists recorded in the preceding month, underlining the sustained allure of Finland as a travel spot. This growth also indicates a positive trend for the Finland aviation industry and Finland hospitality industry, showcasing the country’s capacity to attract and accommodate an increasing number of visitors.

Finland is an ideal location for those enchanted by the natural world and wildlife, offering chances to witness the aurora borealis, venture through its national parks on foot, and take scenic drives to marvel at its picturesque landscapes. The blend of untamed beauty, modern design, and gastronomic delights renders Finland travel an irresistible destination for those in search of varied experiences. Furthermore, the country is lauded for its dedication to ensuring tourism is accessible and inclusive, making sure visitors with different abilities can fully enjoy the wonders and sites Finland has to offer.

The Finland tourism sector is flourishing, providing an extensive array of experiences for tourists to delve into the country’s natural beauty and profound cultural roots. The positive impacts of this growth are felt across the Finland aviation industry and Finland hospitality industry, highlighting the importance of tourism to the nation’s economy and its global appeal as a top travel destination.

Must-See Attractions in Helsinki

Finland Travel and Finland Tourism spotlight Helsinki as a vibrant capital, showcasing must-see attractions that beckon tourists from around the globe. Places to visit in Finland, especially in Helsinki, encompass:

• Helsinki Cathedral : An impressive white neoclassical edifice in Senate Square, serving as a Lutheran place of worship, highlights the architectural heritage important to Finland Tourism.
• Suomenlinna : A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a maritime fortress sprawls across six islands, offering a glimpse into Finland’s military history, making it a pinnacle of Finland travel experiences.
• Uspenski Cathedral : Western Europe’s premier Eastern Orthodox cathedral captivates with its red-brick facade and opulent gold-domed roof, a must-visit for those exploring the cultural dimensions of Finland Tourism.
• Temppeliaukio Church : Known as the Rock Church, this architectural marvel, carved directly into rock, showcases the innovative spirit of places to visit in Finland.
• SEA LIFE Helsinki : A marine enthusiast’s delight, home to an array of sea creatures, enriching the Finland Tourism experience with underwater exploration.
• Esplanadi : A bustling park and promenade in Helsinki’s core, a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, reflecting the lively urban culture central to Finland Travel.
• Sibelius Monument : Celebrates composer Jean Sibelius with over 600 steel pipes, a unique artistic and musical heritage attraction for visitors interested in Finland Tourism.
• Free Walking Tours Helsinki : Offers a deep dive into the city’s highlights, guided by knowledgeable locals, an essential experience for Finland Travel enthusiasts.
• Old Market Hall : A traditional marketplace brimming with Finnish delicacies, crafts, and keepsakes, showcasing the culinary delights significant to Finland Tourism.
• Seurasaari Open-Air Museum : Brings Finnish history to life, displaying traditional structures and ways of living, a cultural exploration cornerstone for those visiting Finland.
• Kamppi Chapel : Offers tranquility in the bustling heart of the city, a reflective space adding depth to the Finland Travel experience.
• Helsinki Zoo : Situated on Korkeasaari Island, a family favorite displaying a diverse collection of flora and fauna, enriching the biodiversity aspect of Finland Tourism.
• Helsinki City Museum : Delves into the city’s past and present, offering insights into Helsinki’s transformation, an important narrative within Finland Travel.
• Kaivopuisto Park : A scenic park loved for its recreational spaces, events, and winter sports, illustrating the outdoor allure central to Finland Tourism.

Helsinki mesmerizes with its blend of historical depth, cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern flair, promising a memorable visit for those exploring Finland Tourism.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Attractions in Helsinki

For those seeking less trodden paths in Helsinki, consider these unique spots, enriching the Finland Travel experience with the city’s hidden gems:

• Sibelius Monument and Kaivopuisto offer art and serene views, respectively, adding to the diverse fabric of Finland Tourism.
• Old Church Park and Unread Signs (Sculpture) provide tranquility and creative expression, aspects cherished by explorers of places to visit in Finland.
• Lasipalatsi Square and Tove Jansson Park pulse with cultural significance, offering insights into the modern Helsinki vibe crucial for an enriched Finland Travel experience.
• Unexpected Visitor adds an element of mystery and discovery, showcasing the innovative spirit Helsinki contributes to Finland Tourism.

These hidden gems offer visitors a deeper dive into Helsinki’s diverse cultural fabric, an essential aspect of Finland Travel and Tourism.

Top Summer Activities in Finland

Top Summer Activities in Finland underscore the nation as a prime destination for Finland tourism and Finland travel, turning it into a playground for visitors during the summer months. The country offers a plethora of activities that immerse them in the breathtaking nature and rich cultural tapestry, crucial to the Finland travel experience. Here’s what’s on the top of the must-do list for those exploring Finland tourism:

• Kayaking Adventures : Dive into the serene and stunning Finnish waters through kayaking, a highlight of Finland travel. Whether it’s the magical midnight sun kayaking around the Helsinki area or weaving through the intricate Archipelago National Park, kayaking turns into an unforgettable journey, emblematic of the best of Finland tourism.
• Biking Exploration : Pedal through Finland’s diverse terrains, from the urban vibe of Helsinki’s streets to the serene paths of Hanko. Cycling offers an exhilarating method to witness the country’s beauty, blending exercise with exploration, and is a staple activity for those experiencing Finland tourism.
• Trail Hiking : Venture into the wilderness on foot at destinations like Nuuksio National Park, just a stone’s throw from Helsinki. It’s a paradise for hikers, making it a must for Finland travel itineraries with its array of trails, serene lakes perfect for a dip, and spots ideal for camping and barbecue gatherings.
• Outdoor Pursuits : Finland’s landscape is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, central to Finland tourism. From lakeside hiking, sunbathing, and swimming to forest explorations facilitated by the Everyman’s Right, and the popular Nordic walking, the great outdoors calls for discovery for those traveling in Finland.
• Festival Participation : The Finnish summer, a pivotal aspect of Finland tourism, is punctuated with a lineup of events and festivals. Immerse yourself in the music and cultural vibrancy at the Flow Festival, the Helsinki Samba Carnival, or the Tuska Festival, each providing a taste of Finland’s festive spirit and enhancing the Finland travel experience.
• Cultural Traditions : Delve into Finnish cultural practices, especially during the Midsummer celebration of Juhannus, a cornerstone of Finland tourism. It’s a time when Finns retreat to summer cottages, ignite lakeside bonfires, and revel in the year’s longest day amidst nature, friends, and family, offering a unique cultural insight for Finland travel enthusiasts.

Exploring Finland in the summer means engaging with a host of activities that not only showcase the country’s natural splendor but also offer a deep dive into its traditions and cultural festivities, making it a memorable part of Finland tourism and travel.

Key Airports in Finland

Finland’s aviation industry plays a crucial role in the country’s connectivity and Finland Tourism, with several pivotal airports serving as gateways for both domestic and international travelers. These airports facilitate seamless connections across the globe and within its borders, bolstering the Finland tourism industry by enabling easy access to the nation’s myriad attractions. Here are the principal airports that are integral to the Finland aviation industry and Finland tourism:

• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL/EFHK) : Serving as the primary international gateway to Helsinki and the broader Uusimaa region, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finland’s busiest airport. In 2023, it catered to around 15.3 million travelers, including about 2 million transit passengers. This showcases growth from prior years, yet still trails behind the pre-COVID transit figures of 3.6 million in 2019, reflecting the challenges and resilience of the Finland aviation industry. The airport has the capacity to accommodate 16-17 million passengers annually, making it a cornerstone of Finland tourism.
• Oulu Airport (OUL) : Positioned in Oulu, this facility ranks as Finland’s second-largest airport and is pivotal for both national and international connections, supporting the Finland aviation industry’s efforts to enhance regional accessibility and promote Finland tourism.
• Rovaniemi Airport (RVN) : Located in the city famed as Santa Claus’s official home, Rovaniemi Airport is a crucial hub in Lapland for Finland tourism, linking numerous destinations and managing a substantial yearly passenger volume, especially during the holiday season which highlights the symbiotic relationship between the Finland aviation industry and Finland tourism.
• Kittilä Airport (KTT) : Kittilä Airport lies in Kittilä and serves as an essential gateway to Northern Finland, particularly during the winter months. It experiences an influx of international visitors from nations such as Germany, France, and the UK, underlining the importance of the Finland aviation industry in boosting Finland tourism, especially for winter sports and Santa Claus Village.
• Vaasa Airport (VAA) : An important airport in western Finland, Vaasa Airport caters to around 300,000 passengers each year. It offers flights through airlines like Finnair and Scandinavian Airlines to various destinations, playing a vital role in the Finland aviation industry and supporting regional tourism.
• Kuopio Airport (KUO) : Situated in the city of Kuopio, this airport sees about 200,000 passengers annually, providing flights to both domestic and international destinations. It underscores the strategic role of the Finland aviation industry in facilitating access to the heart of Finland for both tourism and business.

These airports are integral to the Finland aviation industry, offering a robust network that underpins Finland tourism by ensuring travelers can easily explore the rich cultural and natural landscapes Finland offers.

Premier Accommodations in Finland

Finland highlight the country’s commitment to offering unique and luxurious lodging options that enhance the Finland tourism experience. The Finland hospitality industry plays a pivotal role in providing unforgettable experiences amid the stunning landscapes of Finland. Some of the top accommodations that contribute to Finland tourism and reflect the excellence of the Finland hospitality industry include:

• Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort East Village : Nestled in Saariselkä, this resort is renowned within the Finland hospitality industry for its distinctive glass igloos and traditional log cabins, perfect for viewing the Northern Lights and boosting Finland tourism by offering a quintessentially Arctic experience.
• Arctic TreeHouse Hotel : Located in Rovaniemi, guests can stay in treehouse-like rooms with expansive windows, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area. This hotel is a testament to the innovative offerings of the Finland hospitality industry, designed to attract Finland tourism enthusiasts looking for unique experiences.
• Arctic Skylight Lodge : Situated in Äkäslompolo, the lodge provides glass-roofed cabins for guests to gaze at the night sky and possibly the Northern Lights, showcasing the Finland hospitality industry’s commitment to creating memorable stays that enhance Finland tourism.
• Wilderness Hotel Nangu : In Inari, this hotel offers diverse lodging options including glass igloos and log cabins, set in picturesque surroundings ideal for nature activities. It’s a prime example of how the Finland hospitality industry caters to various tastes, promoting Finland tourism through nature-based accommodations.
• Arctic Fox Igloos : Found in Ranua, these glass igloos combine comfort with the chance to witness the Northern Lights, offering a unique stay in the Arctic. This accommodation highlights the Finland hospitality industry’s role in providing distinctive experiences that attract tourists to Finland.
• Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle : This Rovaniemi hotel provides glass igloos for a magical Arctic Circle experience, attracting those eager to soak in the polar charm, and is a key player in the Finland hospitality industry, enhancing Finland tourism by offering close proximity to Santa Claus Village.
• Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos : In Sinettä, guests can opt for snow rooms or glass igloos, experiencing the Arctic’s allure in an extraordinary setting, further emphasizing the innovative nature of the Finland hospitality industry in attracting Finland tourism.
• Wilderness Hotel Inari : Offering a mix of log cabins and glass igloos in Inari, this hotel is celebrated for its scenic beauty and array of outdoor activities, showcasing the Finland hospitality industry’s ability to provide immersive nature experiences that boost Finland tourism.
• Marriott : In Helsinki, Marriott offers prime locations like Helka Hotel and distinctive properties including Hotel St. George, Hotel U14, and Hotel Katajanokka. These central hotels feature comfortable accommodations close to major attractions, catering to both leisure and business needs for a memorable stay in the city.
• Scandic : Scandic Expands in Finland with New 144-Room Hotel in Oulu for 2025 Opening. Scandic has entered into a long-term agreement with the developer SRV to launch a new Scandic Go hotel featuring 144 rooms in Oulu, Finland. Slated to open in the latter half of 2025, this hotel will occupy a prime location in Oulu, the largest city in northern Finland, positioning it at the heart of the city’s central area.

These hotels cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors can enjoy Finland’s breathtaking natural wonders in comfort and style, thereby playing a crucial role in the success of Finland tourism.

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