Finland City & Culture
Tourism Sites
Kastelholm Castle
🧠 Fact: The only medieval castle in Åland, dating back to the 14th century
💡 Tip: Visit the nearby open-air Jan Karlsgården Museum.
Info - Kastelholm Castle is a picturesque medieval fortress located on the Åland Islands. Dating back to the 14th century, the castle once served as a royal residence and stronghold under Swedish rule. Overlooking a tranquil inlet and surrounded by lush countryside, Kastelholm features restored rooms, museum exhibitions, and atmospheric ruins that reflect centuries of Nordic history. Visitors can explore its towers, dungeons, and banquet halls, or learn about famous historical figures connected to the site. Nearby, Jan Karlsgården open-air museum complements the visit with traditional Åland farmsteads.
Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum
🧠 Fact: Original wooden houses that survived the Great Fire of 1827
💡 Tip: Great place for families—watch artisans at work.
Info - Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum is an open-air museum in Turku, preserving the city’s pre-1827 Great Fire wooden houses. It’s the only historic district to survive the devastating blaze. The museum showcases 18th- and 19th-century artisan workshops, homes, and streets, offering a glimpse into Finland’s urban life of the past. Costumed guides demonstrate traditional crafts like shoemaking, printing, and weaving. The picturesque courtyards and cobbled lanes create an immersive, atmospheric experience. Luostarinmäki provides visitors with a charming and authentic look into Turku’s craftsmanship and cultural history.
Mariehamn Maritime Museum
🧠 Fact: Home to maritime artifacts and the famed Pommern ship.
💡 Tip: You can board and explore the actual sailing ship.
Info - The Mariehamn Maritime Museum is a fascinating tribute to Åland’s rich seafaring history. Located in the capital of the Åland Islands, the museum houses ship models, maritime artifacts, and historical exhibits about the region’s proud sailing tradition. Its highlight is the four-masted barque Pommern, a preserved windjammer moored just outside, open to visitors in summer. Inside the museum, immersive displays and nautical treasures tell stories of brave sailors, trade routes, and life at sea. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in maritime culture and island heritage.
Northern Lights Tours by Snowmobile
🧠 Fact: One of the best places in Finland to see the aurora borealis.
💡 Tip: Choose a tour that includes a traditional Lappish meal.
Info - A Northern Lights tour by snowmobile offers an exhilarating way to chase one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. Departing from destinations like Rovaniemi, guided nighttime rides take adventurers deep into the snowy wilderness, far from city lights for optimal Aurora Borealis viewing. As the snowmobiles glide across frozen lakes and through silent forests, the skies may dance with ribbons of green, pink, and purple light. Most tours include warm refreshments and expert guides who share stories of the Northern Lights’ folklore. It’s an unforgettable Arctic adventure beneath the polar night sky.
Old Town Porvoo
🧠 Fact: The well-preserved wooden houses date back to the 18th century.
💡 Tip: Walk the cobblestone streets and visit small boutiques and artisan cafes
Info - Old Town Porvoo is one of Finland’s most charming and well-preserved medieval quarters. Its cobblestone streets, colorful wooden houses, and riverside red shorehouses create a postcard-perfect atmosphere. Dating back to the 14th century, the area is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries. Visitors can wander narrow alleys, explore historic homes, and enjoy the timeless ambiance. Old Town Porvoo beautifully reflects Finnish small-town life, offering a peaceful escape filled with history, charm, and picturesque river views just an hour from Helsinki.
Porvoo
🧠 Fact: : Porvoo is the second-oldest town in Finland, known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town.
💡 Tip: : Wander through cobblestone streets, visit local artisan shops, and try chocolates from the renowned Brunberg factory.
Info - Porvoo is one of Finland’s oldest towns, celebrated for its medieval charm, colorful riverside houses, and scenic landscapes. Just 50 kilometers from Helsinki, it’s a favorite destination for day trips and weekend getaways. Highlights include the atmospheric Old Town, the historic Porvoo Cathedral, and lovely cafés and boutiques tucked into centuries-old wooden buildings. Nature lovers can explore surrounding forests, riverbanks, and coastal archipelago islands like Klovharun. Blending rich history, artistic tradition, and serene natural beauty, Porvoo offers visitors a peaceful, picture-perfect slice of Finnish heritage.
Porvoo Cathedral
🧠 Fact: Originally built in the 15th century, it has been rebuilt multiple times after fires
💡 Tip: Check for classical concerts often held inside.
Info - Porvoo Cathedral stands as a proud symbol of the town’s rich history and spiritual heritage. Originally built in the 15th century, the cathedral has endured fires and restorations over the centuries. Its Gothic architecture, whitewashed stone walls, and serene interior make it a peaceful place for reflection. The cathedral famously hosted the first Diet of Finland in 1809, when Finland came under Russian rule. Nestled in the heart of Old Town Porvoo, it remains a beloved landmark and an essential stop for visitors exploring the region.
Riihisaari – Savonlinna Museum
🧠 Fact: Explore exhibitions on Saimaa’s lake culture and history.
💡 Tip: Rent a canoe or kayak nearby to explore the area yourself
Info - Riihisaari – Savonlinna Museum
Riihisaari – Savonlinna Museum is a cultural and historical center located by Savonlinna’s harbor, next to Olavinlinna Castle. The museum highlights the region’s fascinating history, from medieval times to the present, with exhibitions on local life, Lake Saimaa’s unique nature, and the area’s famous steamships. Seasonal displays and changing exhibitions keep the museum lively and relevant. It also serves as a visitor information hub and starting point for lake cruises. Riihisaari offers a meaningful and educational look into the rich cultural tapestry of the Savonlinna region.
Santa Claus Village
🧠 Fact: Cross the Arctic Circle and meet Santa any time of the year.
💡 Tip: Don’t miss mailing a postcard from the official Santa Claus Post Office.
Info - Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a beloved destination where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round. Located right on the Arctic Circle, visitors can meet Santa Claus in his cozy office, send postcards from the official Santa Claus Post Office, and cross the Arctic Circle line. The village also features souvenir shops, festive restaurants, reindeer sleigh rides, and snow activities in winter. Perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts, Santa Claus Village brings festive magic to life with twinkling lights, snowy landscapes, and heartwarming traditions in the heart of Finnish Lapland.
Savonlinna Castle (Olavinlinna)
🧠 Fact: One of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Nordic region.
💡 Tip: Visit during the Savonlinna Opera Festival for a magical experience.
Info - Savonlinna Castle, also known as Olavinlinna, is a medieval stone fortress nestled on a rocky islet in Lake Saimaa. Founded in 1475, it was built to defend against Russian invasions and remains the world’s northernmost medieval stone castle still standing. With its impressive towers and thick walls, the castle offers guided tours, exhibitions, and stunning lake views. Every summer, it hosts the world-famous Savonlinna Opera Festival, attracting audiences to its atmospheric courtyard stage. Olavinlinna is a cherished symbol of Finland’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
🧠 Fact: Showcases Finnish rural life with historical wooden buildings.
💡 Tip: Great picnic spot and relaxing walks around the island.
Info - The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum is a charming heritage site on a serene island near central Helsinki. Established in 1909, it showcases traditional Finnish rural life through a collection of historic wooden houses, farmsteads, and manors relocated from across Finland. Visitors can explore the centuries-old buildings, interact with costumed guides, and learn about the country’s folklore, customs, and craftsmanship. Nestled amid lush forests and walking paths, Seurasaari offers a tranquil escape from the city while providing a fascinating window into Finland’s cultural and architectural heritage.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress
🧠 Fact: A UNESCO World Heritage Site spread across 6 islands
💡 Tip: Visit the tunnels and museums for a complete experience.
Info - Suomenlinna Sea Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Helsinki’s most famous attractions. Built in the mid-18th century across six islands, it was originally constructed by Sweden to defend against Russian expansion. Today, Suomenlinna is a lively district with museums, cafés, and walking trails amid historic fortifications, tunnels, and old cannons. It offers visitors a glimpse into Nordic military history while providing stunning views of the Helsinki archipelago. Easily reached by a short ferry ride, Suomenlinna is both a living community and a cherished cultural treasure.
Tampere Art Museum & Moomin Museum
🧠 Fact: The only museum in the world dedicated to the Moomins.
💡 Tip: Visit both museums in one trip for a full art & culture experience
Info - Tampere offers two unique cultural gems for art and literary lovers. The Tampere Art Museum showcases Finnish art from the 19th century to modern times, featuring works by national masters and contemporary artists. Nearby, the Moomin Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated to Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin characters. The museum’s enchanting exhibits include original drawings, dioramas, and manuscripts, immersing visitors in the whimsical Moomin world. Together, these museums highlight Tampere’s rich cultural scene, blending fine art with one of Finland’s most iconic literary treasures.
Tampere Market Hall (Kauppahalli)
🧠 Fact: The largest indoor market hall in the Nordics.
💡 Tip: Try the local black sausage with lingonberry jam.
Info - Tampere Market Hall, or Kauppahalli, is Finland’s largest indoor market and a culinary hub in the heart of Tampere. Opened in 1901, this lively market is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau-style building, featuring dozens of stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, pastries, and traditional Finnish delicacies. Local favorites like smoked fish, rye bread, and handcrafted chocolates tempt visitors and locals alike. The market also boasts cozy cafés and lunch spots, making it the perfect place to sample authentic flavors while soaking in Tampere’s everyday atmosphere.
Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
🧠 Fact: Built directly into solid rock.
💡 Tip: Check the concert schedule—acoustics are world-famous.
Info - Temppeliaukio Church, known as the Rock Church, is one of Helsinki’s most remarkable landmarks. Opened in 1969, it’s built directly into solid granite bedrock, creating a dramatic and peaceful atmosphere. The church’s circular structure, copper-domed roof, and rugged stone walls offer outstanding acoustics, making it a popular venue for concerts as well as worship. Natural light streams through skylights surrounding the dome, enhancing its serene interior. Located in the Töölö district, the Rock Church beautifully blends modern architecture with nature, reflecting Finland’s deep connection to its natural landscape.
Turku
🧠 Fact: As Finland's oldest city, Turku boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene.
💡 Tip: Visit the Turku Castle and Cathedral, stroll along the Aura River, and explore the nearby archipelago.
Info - Turku, Finland’s oldest city and former capital, is a vibrant blend of medieval heritage and modern urban culture. Nestled along the Aura River, Turku boasts historic landmarks like Turku Castle and Turku Cathedral, alongside lively cafés, galleries, and markets. The city is a gateway to the stunning Turku Archipelago, with thousands of islands to explore. Visitors can wander cobbled streets, enjoy waterfront parks, or experience traditional crafts at Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum. Rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, Turku offers a charming and dynamic experience year-round.
Turku Castle
🧠 Fact: Over 700 years old, the castle houses a historical museum.
💡 Tip: Join a guided tour to learn about Finland’s royal history
Info - Turku Castle, or Turun linna, is Finland’s oldest and most significant medieval building, dating back to the late 13th century. Located by the Aura River in Turku, this impressive stone fortress has witnessed centuries of battles, royal visits, and political intrigue. Today, it houses a museum featuring medieval artifacts, historical exhibitions, and beautifully restored rooms. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, banquet halls, and chapel, immersing themselves in Finland’s rich past. Turku Castle stands as a proud monument to Finnish history and medieval architecture.