10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Finland During Your Europe Trip

10 Reasons to Visit Finland

If you are looking for an exciting destination to include in your Europe trip, Finland is worth considering. This Nordic gem proffers an amalgamation of exquisite natural splendour, avant-garde design, and fascinating culture. 

Visit Finland for its over 1,80,000 lakes and sprawling forests. It is a playground for the adventurous, offering hiking, fishing, skiing, and snowmobiling activities. 

Further, Finland's culture is steeped in tradition, from the iconic sauna experience to the unique Sami culture of the Arctic. This article will explore the top 10 reasons Finland should feature in your Europe travel plans and how it truly offers an unparalleled experience.

Reasons Why You Should Include Finland in Your Europe Travel Itinerary 

• Magnificent natural landscapes

Finland’s vast wilderness, and natural landscapes, including thousands of lakes and forests, have remained untouched for centuries. ‘Right to Roam,’ a custom codified into law in Europe, allows you to truly enjoy Finland's natural beauty. You can enjoy hiking, fishing, picking berries and mushrooms, and more without permission from the landowner or authorities, as long as you don’t damage the environment or anyone’s property.   

Also Read: Visit Finland- Enjoy the Views of Stunning Northern Lights

• Sauna culture

The sauna is integral to Finnish life and should not be missed while travelling to Finland. Saunas have been a part of Finnish culture for over a thousand years, and there are over 3 million saunas in the country.

Many spas offer saunas for their guests, and public saunas can be rented by the hour. Some saunas are set in stunning natural settings, such as by a lake or forest, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. 

• Northern lights

The Finnish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. You cannot help but be wonderstruck by the night sky as it turns into beautiful shades of green, pink, blue, and turquoise. 

The region is above the Arctic Circle, where the Aurora Borealis is visible for up to 200 nights a year. Staying in glass igloos is a beautiful way to enjoy the Northern Lights, as they keep you warm while you take in the beautiful sight. 

Also Read: Know the Places to Witness the Spectacular Northern Lights

• Stunning national parks and forests

With over 70% of the country covered in forest, Finland has abundant natural beauty to explore. There are 40 national parks in Finland, each with its unique features and attractions. Nuuksio National Park is one of the popular Finland tourist attractions and is located just outside of Helsinki. It has an extensive network of hiking trails and peaceful lakes. 

Oulanka National Park is another admired spot, home to impressive rapids, canyons, and waterfalls. The country's vast wilderness areas have many species of animals, including reindeer, elk, lynx, wolves, and brown bears.

You should also consider visiting the Archipelago National Park. It makes for an unforgettable experience with thousands of islands and islets, where you can explore the rugged coastline, kayak through narrow channels, or take a ferry to one of the larger islands. 

• Culinary delights

Finnish cuisine is a unique blend of Scandinavian and Russian influences. During your travel to Finland, you can enjoy a range of traditional dishes known for their simplicity and freshness. The use of local and seasonal ingredients, including fish, game meats, berries, and mushrooms, give them a unique, authentic flavour rarely found elsewhere.

Relish salmon soup with rye bread, blueberry pies, dishes made of reindeer meat, fish-filled pastries, and much more. Some of the country's famous drinks, like Finnish vodka and gin, and local beers and ciders are worth trying too!  

• Diverse and outstanding architecture

Finland’s diverse architectural structures are a testament to the country’s long and rich history. From ancient wooden churches to modernist masterpieces, there are many architectural wonders to explore when you travel to Finland. Some of them include the following:

• Temppeliaukio Church
• Suomenlinna
• Helsinki Central Station
• Alvar Aalto buildings 

• Safe and hospitable society

Finland is known to have a safe and hospitable environment, making it an ideal and safe destination for families to enjoy a relaxing holiday. The country has been consistently featured on top by the World Happiness Report for six years, thanks to its progressive social policies and high quality of life. Visit Finland to experience the joy and gracious hospitality of the country and its people.

Also Read: Top Places in Europe to Holiday with Club Mahindra 

• Midnight sun

Finland is often addressed as the “land of the midnight sun” since the sun never sets in the country during the summer months of May to August. When you travel to Finland, you can enjoy midnight sun cruises that take tourists out sailing to enjoy the stunning views of the sun on the horizon. 

These cruises often include food and drinks; some even offer sauna facilities. Further, you can take a trip to Lapland to enjoy a hike, a bike ride, or a kayak trip during the late evenings or early mornings. 

• Amazing Weather

Each season in Finland has its unique charm and offers various experiences for tourists. The snowy landscapes and frozen lakes create a winter wonderland perfect for nature lovers and those seeking adventure during winter. You can enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and ice skating. 

During spring and summer, you can enjoy the midnight sun and make the most of many Finland tourist attractions, like hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, and boating. The Finnish lakes are beautiful during summer. 

In autumn, the country's landscapes transform into stunning colours, with trees changing into vibrant red, yellow, and orange hues. It's a great time to explore the Finnish wilderness and pick mushrooms and berries.  

• Husky or reindeer safari

Husky safaris are an excellent way to explore the country's wilderness and are among the most sought-after Finland tourist attractions. You can ride on a sledge pulled by huskies and enjoy the tranquil scenery as you glide through the snow. Reindeer safaris are another popular activity in Finland, particularly in Lapland, where reindeer herding has been a way of life for centuries.

Some husky and reindeer safaris in Finland offer the opportunity to stay overnight in wilderness cabins or traditional Sámi tents, providing an immersive experience of Finnish Lapland.

Top Finland Tourist Attractions

If you are planning to travel to Finland, here are some places to explore:

1. Helsinki
2. Lapland
3. Turku
4. Tampere
5. Rovaniemi
6. Åland Islands
7. Porvoo
8. Savonlinna
9. Koli National Park
10. Archipelago National Park
11. Nuuksio National Park
12. Olavinlinna Castle
13. Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
14. Santa Claus Village
15. Oulanka National Park

Where to Stay in Finland?

When you visit Finland, you have great stay options in the Club Mahindra affiliate resorts to enjoy a pleasurable and comfortable stay with your family. 

The Holiday Club Saariselkä Resort by Club Mahindra, is a beautiful Finland resort. The premium abode offers an exceptional blend of comfort and luxury. With its spacious rooms, rejuvenating saunas, top-notch restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, well-stocked bars, and therapeutic spa, the resort caters to every need of its guests. Families can look forward to a vacation like no other, where they can indulge in relaxation, rejuvenation, and new experiences. 

Another premium Finland resort is the Holiday Club Saimaa Resort by Club Mahindra. It is a treat for your senses as you unwind and enjoy the many facilities available - for instance, a soothing massage followed by a delectable meal that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. 

The expansive Harmony Spa offers many holistic treatments to revitalize your body and mind. You can then head to the resort's exceptional speciality restaurants, where you can delight in various local and continental delicacies to tantalize your taste buds.

Both Finland resorts offer comfortable and convenient accommodation options with various amenities and activities to suit travellers of all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a winter wonderland experience in Lapland or a summer retreat in the Finnish countryside, these resorts will surely provide a memorable stay in Finland.

Also Read: Finland Diaries - A Great Experience with Club Mahindra