Ho Ho Ho! Welcome to Santa’s homeland!
Yes, you heard that right; the city of Rovaniemi in the is considered the home of Santa Claus and there’s even a theme park here to capture your imagination with Santa’s post office and the chance to see Santa himself!
From seeing the Northern Lights, visiting a sauna, trying the cuisine to hiking one of the 41 national parks, it’s easy to see why Finland is famous for tourism; there’s plenty to see and do here! Before we jump into that, let’s go over some tourism statistics in Finland!
Visitor Trends: What to Know About the Finland Tourism Industry
Let’s begin with how many tourists visit Finland each year? In tourist accommodation, Finland tourists per year look like this:
Of these, who visits Finland the most? In 2023, of the almost 6 million international overnight stays in Finland, the largest group of non-resident tourists came from Germany:
- Germany: 680,486
- United Kingdom: 567,125
- Sweden: 503,920
- United States: 382,658
- France: 322.215
While Finland doesn't get as many tourists as other Nordic countries or rely on tourism, the Finland tourism industry made a significant contribution of 4% to the country's GDP. By 2025, the revenue generated by tourism is forecast to exceed 25 billion euros.
You might be asking, what is the most touristic city in Finland? This would be the capital, Helsinki! In 2023, Helsinki welcomed more than 2.4 million foreign tourists, with United States in the lead at 100,167, followed by Germany (95,410), Sweden (78,958), UK (64,493), and France (36,313)
Some more tourism Finland facts!
- In 2022, 41% of tourism consumption went to Uusimaa.
- 82% of international tourism demand was at Uusimaa (61%), Lapland (16%) and Åland (5%).
- As for Finland crime statistics, Finland ranks 13th in the world on the Global Peace Index.
- The majority of visits to Finland are for leisure purposes at 73%, followed by business-related purposes at 27%.
- Finns also love to travel! In 2023, the most popular tourist designations for residents of Finland were Sweden (1,720,000), Estonia (1,670,000), Spain (840,000), Greece (390,000) and Germany (360,000)
What Are the Most Popular Destinations in Finland?
Finland offers tourists both extreme landscapes and endless possibilities. Whether racing huskies under the northern lights, kayaking alongside rare seals in forested lakes or diving into Helsinki’s creative design scene, there’s actually a plethora of fun activities to do here. With national parks, vibrant cities and the home of Santa Claus, this country is packed with surprises for every traveler.
Here’s a quick guide to the best places to visit in Finland:
- Helsinki: A mix of design, nature and culture; visit Suomenlinna fortress, enjoy saunas, explore the Design District and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Rovaniemi: Lapland’s Arctic hub; meet Santa, ride reindeer sleds and watch the northern lights from a glass igloo or snow hotel.
- Tampere: Vibrant lakeside city with museums in former mills, live music venues and must-try blood sausage (mustamakkara) at the market hall.
- Åland Islands: Ideal for island-hopping with bike trails, sea eagles and cozy cottages; explore nature at your own pace.
- Nuuksio National Park: Just outside Helsinki; hike, canoe and spot wildlife with the option to stay in cabins.
- Kuopio: Gateway to Finnish Lakeland; enjoy lake cruises, smoke saunas and panoramic views from the revolving Puijon Tower.
- Turku: Finland’s oldest city with a 13th-century castle, cathedral and top-tier restaurants like Michelin-starred Kaskis.
- Porvoo: A charming old town with cobblestone streets, red wooden houses and local boutiques; perfect for a scenic day trip from Helsinki.
FAQ: Is Finland expensive for tourism? It can be, with tourists spending an average of €807 per trip.
Unforgettable Finnish Festivals and Events to Experience
Finland hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich culture, music and traditions, as well as the re-emergence of the sun! These events offer unique experiences for both locals and tourists.
- Midsummer (Juhannus): Celebrated in late June, Juhannus marks the longest day of the year. Finns head to lakeside cottages to relax and enjoy saunas, barbecues, midnight swims and bonfires under the midnight sun.
- Helsinki Festival: Held in late August and early September, this is Finland’s largest multi-arts festival, featuring music, art exhibitions, theater and performances. It aims to make culture accessible to all and draws the most visitors of any cultural event in Finland.
- Flow Festival: Taking place each August in Helsinki’s former Suvilahti power plant, Flow blends music, art and design. Known for showcasing international and local artists, it also features installations, film screenings and gourmet food.
- Tampere Theatre Festival: Since 1969, this festival in Tampere has spotlighted both Finnish and international theatrical productions. It features dramas, experimental works, workshops and seminars, promoting creativity in the theater world.
- Pori Jazz Festival: Established in 1966, Pori Jazz is one of Europe’s oldest and largest jazz festivals, attracting 120,000–160,000 visitors each July. It features jazz legends and pop icons, with past headliners including Alicia Keys and Phil Collins. Visitors often enjoy picnics while soaking in the groovy sounds.
Finnish Food Guide: Traditional Dishes to Try on Your Trip
Finland offers travelers more than just stunning landscapes; it’s also about all the unique foods you can taste in a country lying in the Arctic Circle. Finnish food is full of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that vary season by season, whether it be fresh berries and mushrooms in the warmer months or root vegetables and rich meats in the colder ones.
If you’re visiting Finland and sitting in a restaurant or browsing the streets and don’t know what to eat, here are some traditional Finnish dishes you shouldn’t miss:
- Ruisleipä (Rye Bread): Dense, 100% rye bread, central to Finnish cuisine for centuries. Often served dried for sandwiches or enjoyed with butter or soups.
- Leipäjuusto (Bread Cheese): Also known as ‘squeaky cheese,’ this fresh cheese pairs perfectly with cloudberry jam and coffee.
- Karjalanpiirakka (Rice Pies): A rye-crusted pastry filled with rice porridge or mashed potatoes, often topped with egg butter. Originally from Karelia, it’s enjoyed as breakfast or a snack across Finland.
- Kalakukko (Fish Pie): A Savonia specialty, baked with rye flour and stuffed with fish, pork and bacon. The long cooking process gives it a moist filling.
- Lohikeitto (Creamy Salmon Soup): A classic soup with salmon, potatoes, vegetables and cream, served with rye bread.
- Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer): Thinly sliced reindeer cooked with cream or beer, served with lingonberries, mashed potatoes and pickles.
- Muikku (Fried Vendance): Small freshwater fish fried whole in butter, offering a crispy, flavorful snack.
- Mustikkapiirakka (Blueberry Pie): A summer favorite made with blueberries and yogurt, served with fresh milk.
- Korvapuusti (Cinnamon Buns): A type of Pulla, these fluffy buns are full of cardamom and are traditionally enjoyed with coffee.
- Salmiakki (Salty Licorice): A strong, black candy with an intense salty taste, also used to flavor ice cream and drinks.
Best Time to Visit Finland: Winter Wonderland vs. Summer Adventures
Finland sits in northern Europe, partially inside the Arctic Circle, sharing borders with Sweden, Norway and Russia, and a coast on the Gulf of Finland. This means its climate varies by region: the north has a semi-continental climate, while the south has a temperate climate. Interestingly, and luckily for travelers, due to the Gulf Stream, Finland is warmer than other places at similar latitudes.
Generally, the north (Lapland) is generally 5°C colder than the south, while coastal areas remain milder, but here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Finland.
Summer (June–August):
- Mild temperatures: Peaks in July and August, averaging around 20–25°C, occasionally reaching 30°C.
- Midnight Sun: In the far north (Lapland), the sun doesn’t set from May 17 to July 27. Southern regions see extended twilight.
- Climate change impact: Summers are becoming warmer every year.
Autumn (September–November):
- Vibrant foliage: Lapland’s autumn begins in late August with stunning gold and red landscapes.
- Cooling temperatures: By October, southern Finland averages 5–10°C, and Lapland 0–5°C.
- First snowfalls: Snow begins in September in Lapland and October in the south.
- Storms: November brings the first winter storms, often starting as blizzards.
Winter (December–March):
- Extreme cold: Helsinki averages -10°C and Lapland can reach -20°C or lower.
- Snow cover: Lapland gets snow from October and the south from Christmas until March. Snow depth can reach 100cm in the north. Sudden rain on warmer days creates hazardous roads due to the ice.
- Polar Nights: In Lapland, the sun doesn’t rise for weeks in December and January. The Northern Lights appear 200 times a year in Lapland and sometimes in Helsinki.
- Climate change effects: Winters are getting shorter and warmer.
Spring (March–May):
- Melting snow: By April, coastal regions are snow-free, but Lapland stays snowy until late May.
- Rising temperatures: Southern Finland warms to 7°C in April and 15°C in May, while Lapland nights remain chilly.
- Unpredictable weather: Spring can bring surprise snow or sleet, even in May.
How to Travel Around Finland: Transport Tips for Tourists
Finland’s transportation system is quite extensive and reliable to help you get around the country, with air, rail, road and water networks running smoothly. To help you in your travels, these transportation options make traveling across Finland smooth and enjoyable, no matter the season or destination.
Flights
Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel across Finland. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the main hub, with both international and domestic services from airlines like Finnair, Norwegian and SAS. There are 27 airports in total, with booking in advance often providing cheaper fares, especially for flights to the north.
Trains
Operated by VR, these are comfortable and cover the entire country. Trains can reach speeds of 200km/h and offer services like onboard snacks, drinks and sleeper cabins for long trips. Eastern Finland’s railway routes are especially scenic, providing views of the region’s many lakes. Trains are a preferred option for those seeking convenience and comfort.
Ferries and Boats
Popular for both coastal and inland travel. They connect mainland Finland with the Åland Islands and other Baltic Sea destinations. Ferries also operate year-round across lakes and rivers, becoming festive during summer with onboard entertainment.
Buses
Reach areas that trains cannot, covering 90% of Finland’s public roads. Companies like ExpressBus, Onnibus and Matkahuolto offer long-distance services with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and extra personal space. Buses are ideal for reaching remote attractions along smaller roads.
Car Rental
A great way to explore Finland, though winter driving can be tricky. Drivers must follow right-hand traffic rules, use snow tires from December to February and stay alert for wildlife such as elk and reindeer. Petrol stations are easily accessible and an International Driving Permit is required for foreign visitors.
Taxis
Known as Taksi, these are widely available and can be booked through hotels or by calling local numbers. They are modern, comfortable and accept credit cards. Uber also operates in some areas, though coverage may be limited in rural regions. There is no need to tip, though rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Biking
A popular mode of transport, especially in cities like Helsinki, with bike rentals available from April to October. Cyclists must wear helmets and ensure their bikes have proper front and rear lights, particularly when riding at night or early in the morning.
Electric Scooters
Lime, Voi and Tier scooters are available for short trips, with each charge lasting around 40km. They are eco-friendly and can be rented by anyone aged 12 or older.
What to Know Before You Go to Finland
Finns are known for being relaxed and calm and their social norms reflect this, however, understanding a few key cultural practices can make your visit smoother.
Dos:
- Maintain personal space, as Finns value privacy. Whether you’re queuing or interacting, standing too close can make people uncomfortable.If you do need help, though, locals are quick to assist without expecting anything in return.
- Drink the tap water — it’s among the best in the world.
- When using a sauna, enter and exit quickly to keep the heat from escaping. Avoid standing in the doorway to look for a seat, as this is seen as inconsiderate.
- Plan ahead by booking tickets and making reservations for activities, festivals and attractions, as many require advance arrangements.
Don’ts:
- Avoid small talk. Finns prefer meaningful conversations or silence, even in everyday interactions. If you ask, ‘How are you?’ expect a detailed answer rather than a casual reply.
- Greeting strangers without reason might leave them puzzled.
- Stay quiet on public transport. Loud behavior is frowned upon, though people are unlikely to confront you about it.
- Avoid visiting in November, when the weather is cold, grey, and sunless, making it the most depressing month.
- Tipping isn’t customary. Some card readers may ask for tips, but skipping it is completely acceptable.
What Are Finland’s Tourism Projections for 2025 and Beyond?
Tourism in Finland, which contributed 2.7% to the pre-pandemic GDP, dropped to 1.4% in 2020 but has since recovered to 1.8% by 2022. By 2025, tourism revenue is expected to exceed €25 billion, with the Travel & Tourism market projected to generate $3.4 billion in 2024. International tourist arrivals are forecast to grow steadily, reaching 3.06 million in 2025 and 3.34 million by 2027.
Finland’s 2022–2028 tourism strategy, ‘Achieving more together,’ focuses on becoming the Nordic region’s leader in sustainable tourism. Key priorities include sustainable development, digital transformation, improved accessibility and fostering a competitive business environment to boost growth and job creation nationwide.
Conclusion
Ready to book yourself a trip to the world’s happiest country? You might find yourself needing a private tour guide when there or even feel the desire to book a private tour.
Magic awaits you in Finland so start building your itinerary and have a fabulous trip!
