Finland - The Land of a Thousand Lakes and Northern Lights
Finland is a land of extremes: over 180,000 lakes, endless forests, deep sauna culture, and the official home of Santa Claus. From glass igloos under the Northern Lights to the Midnight Sun in summer - Finland offers unforgettable nature experiences.
Finland at a Glance
- Capital: Helsinki
- Population: ~5.5 million
- Language: Finnish, Swedish (English widely spoken)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Best Time: Dec-Mar (winter), Jun-Aug (summer)
- Saunas: Over 3 million (for 5.5 million people!)
Top Destinations in Finland
Finnish Lapland
The northern part of Finland is a winter wonderland with perfect conditions for Northern Lights, husky safaris, and snowmobile adventures. In summer, experience the Midnight Sun and endless hiking opportunities.
Rovaniemi - Santa Claus Village
The capital of Lapland sits right on the Arctic Circle. Here you'll find the official Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa year-round. The Arctic Circle runs right through the village!
Helsinki
Europe's design capital impresses with its unique blend of Nordic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and famous sauna culture. Visit the Temppeliaukio Rock Church and relax in a traditional seaside sauna.
Unique Experiences
Glass Igloos & Aurora Hotels
Sleep under the Northern Lights in a heated glass igloo. The most famous include:
- Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort: The original glass igloos
- Arctic SnowHotel: Ice suites + glass igloos
- Arctic TreeHouse Hotel: Design treehouses with panoramic windows
Finnish Sauna Culture
For Finns, the sauna is more than wellness - it's a way of life. Traditional experiences:
- Smoke Sauna: The most original form
- Ice Hole Swimming: Jump into the ice hole after sauna!
- Public Saunas: Löyly and Allas Sea Pool in Helsinki
Northern Lights
Finnish Lapland offers visible Northern Lights on up to 200 nights per year. The best months are September to March, away from cities in the wilderness.
Outdoor Activities
- Husky Safaris: Multi-day tours through the wilderness
- Snowmobile Safaris: Pure adrenaline on frozen lakes
- Reindeer Rides: Traditional with the Sami people
- Ice Fishing: Relaxation on a frozen lake
- Hiking: Karhunkierros Trail and Urho Kekkonen National Park
- Canoeing: Explore the lake landscape in summer