When it comes to tourism, there’s nowhere in Europe like Finland. This is a country that’s quietly unique, offering something a little bit different to many of its rivals on the continent, and even in other parts of Scandinavia. If you’d like to take a break from the conventional European city break, and enjoy an experience that’s a little bit more authentic and unexpected, then this might well be the place to find it.
Where Nature and Everyday Life Exist Side by Side
In Finland, dense urban spaces often sit alongside forests, lakes, and scenic coastal areas. Thus, you’re never too far away from the sense of peace and tranquillity that comes with green space. Thus, a city break here is ideal for those looking to take it slow, and to enjoy a holiday that’s more grounded.
Calm, Creative Cities With a Strong Cultural Identity
Finnish holidays tend to be calming for another key reason: the way that the culture, and the city spaces, are arranged. For one thing, Finnish cities, like Helsinki, tend to be a great deal smaller than many other European capitals. Less than a million people live there, for one thing. The pace is a little more sedate, and you’ll rarely have to shoulder your way through a crowd. The architecture and the way that pedestrianised spaces are designed around it are also something worth appreciating. For travellers in search of city breaks that stand apart, in other words, this is a great place to start.
A Country of Contrasts: Silence, Sound and Seasonal Extremes
You might think that Finland is an exceptionally cold country. This is the case during winter – but it’s more useful to think of Finland as a nation of extremes. Like neighbouring Norway, Finland has made a massive cultural contribution to metal music, with acts like Nightwish and Children of Bodom hailing from this part of the world.There’s more to Finnish music than metal, however. Pay a visit to one of the smaller festivals and you might be surprised by the diversity of music on offer.
Of course, if you’d like to stray from the well-trodden tourist trail, you might also venture into the country’s famous pine forests, like Pyhä-Häkki, in the south. But Finland’s natural beauty is not limited to just forests, there are also thousands of lakes scattered throughout the country. In fact, Finland is known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” and it’s easy to see why.
The crystal clear waters of these lakes are perfect for swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying a peaceful boat ride. You can even rent a traditional Finnish sauna by the lake and relax in the heat while taking in the stunning views. And if you’re lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
The Magic of Lapland
Beyond the excitement of meeting Father Christmas, Lapland in the North transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Imagine gliding through silent, snow-covered forests on a reindeer or husky sleigh, the crisp winter air on your cheeks. Families can also chase the elusive Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), watching in awe as vibrant curtains of green and purple dance across the night sky. With cosy log cabins and accommodations, traditional saunas, and a landscape straight out of a fairy tale, Lapland offers a truly immersive and enchanting holiday experience.
