Finland
From bustling cities to vast wilderness
The country of saunas, Santa Claus and untouched nature
For us, Finland is a country full of peace, nature and surprising contrasts. After Tessa had been an Erasmus student in Copenhagen for six months, we decided to continue travelling together through Scandinavia and Finland with Interrail. We visited lively cities such as Helsinki, enjoyed the unique culture and headed north to Finnish Lapland. In the summer you can experience endless days here. Finland feels like a place where you can experience both the silence of nature and the lively city life.
Information about Finland
Finland is known for its vast lakes, endless forests and untouched nature. The country runs from bustling Helsinki to Finnish Lapland. In summer you can enjoy long, light days and in winter snowy landscapes and maybe even the Northern Lights. Finland is also the land of saunas, wooden houses on the water, reindeer and the famous Santa. Thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, strong outdoor culture and well-organized public transport, Finland is ideal for nature lovers and anyone who wants to experience the versatility of Northern Europe.
Capital
Helsinki
Currency
Euro
Language
Finnish
Timezone
GMT+2
Our travel stories of Finland
On this page, you will find all our stories about Finland and Scandinavia: from fun city trips to complete tours with Interrail. Be inspired by our experiences and tips!
FAQ about Finland
What is the best time to travel to Finland?
Finland is worth it all year round. In summer you can enjoy long, light days, endless lakes and green forests. In winter you can experience the snowy landscapes, husky or reindeer rides and the Northern Lights. Spring and summer are ideal for a combination of cities and nature, while winter is perfect for Lapland.
How do you travel to Finland?
Most international travellers arrive via Helsinki. But from Sweden you can also easily travel by boat or bus. In Finland itself you can travel by train, bus or domestic flight to other cities or to Lapland. Public transport is reliable and well organised.
What are popular cities in Finland?
Helsinki is the bustling capital known for design, culture and modern architecture. Other well-known cities are Turku, Tampere and Rovaniemi, best known as Santa’s city in Lapland.
Can you really meet Santa?
Yes! In Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, you can meet official Santa Claus all year round in Santa Claus Village. This is especially popular with families, but it remains a unique experience as an adult.
Is Finland an expensive travel destination?
Although Finland is cheaper than other countries in Northern Europe, it is still relatively expensive. Especially in cities and tourist areas. Public transport and accommodation are well organised, and those traveling on budget can choose hostels, Airbnb’s or campsites.