15 Cities in Finland You Must Visit

Finnish Summer, Northern Lights, Unspoiled Lakes, Endless Wilderness, Picturesque Landscapes, and Midnight Sun- all of this tells us about a vacation in Finland.

Going on a Finnish holiday is everyone’s dream. Moreover, it is on every traveler’s bucket list. But why is Finland so popular among globetrotters? Because of its untouched cities, unparalleled vistas, and many natural phenomena. There are numerous cities in Finland that are thronged with beautiful attractions, picturesque streets, majestic old buildings, and much more.

A lively holiday in Finland will definitely leave you in awe. As soon as you land in this happiest country in the world, you will feel a ray of joy in your heart. The adrenaline rush to explore every part of this beautiful country will make its way into your soul.

So, if you are en route to Finland and wondering which cities to explore, here is your guide to pick the best ones first. We have compiled a list of the best cities to visit in Finland for you to skim through.

15 Best Cities in Finland to Visit on Your Finnish Vacation

Tick off the following cities from your bucket list:

1. Helsinki

The capital city of Finland, Helsinki, is a treasure trove of the Nordic region. Teeming with vibrant hues of summer, green lands, surreal evenings, astonishing architecture, picturesque landscapes, and bustling streets, Helsinki is the true heart of Finland. This delightful city is always on the list of places to visit in Finland.

Whether you are on the lookout for an adventurous vacation, tranquil escape, photograph-worthy landscapes, culinary delights, or a contemporary art museum, Helsinki has it all. Helsinki beautifully blends history, modernization, art, nature, and architecture in one place. That’s why it is one of the best cities in Finland to visit for an unforgettable holiday.

Things to See in Helsinki- Helsinki City Museum, Finnish Museum of Natural History, Helsinki Art Museum, Market Square, Seurasaari Open Air Museum, etc.

2. Rovaniemi

Famously known as the home of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is among the most-visited cities in Finland, which has so much for its travelers to explore. If you are visiting Finland during Christmas, you shouldn’t miss Rovaniemi. It decks up with Christmas decorations and fairy lights that shine through the white snow during the winter.

One of the must-do things here is to visit Santa Claus village. There, you can enjoy dog sledding and ice fishing. Besides, Rovaniemi is a bustling cultural hub that has a rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes to capture. Situated in the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is one of the best cities to visit in Finland throughout the year.

Things to See in Rovaniemi- Santa Claus Village, Midnight Sun, Northern Lights, Santa Park, Rovaniemi Church, etc.

3. Porvoo

The oldest town in Finland, Porvoo, beholds beauty, history, and quaint coastlines. From its traditional houses to cobblestone streets, pretty cafes, and small boutiques, Porvoo always makes it to the best cities in Finland. Porvoo keeps teeming with its art scenes, music festivals, vibrant fairs, bustling flea markets, and riverside attractions.

It is a favorite city among all the artists and designers who love to admire art. Every part of the city features charming art and designs that leave you in awe.

Things to See in Porvoo- Poorvo Old Town, Cathedral, The Runeberg Home, Castle Hill, Doll & Toy Museum, Town Hall Square, etc.

4. Hanko

If you are seeking a sun-soaked holiday, Hanko is one of the best cities in Finland for a coastal holiday. Nestled on the southern coast of Finland, Hanko offers a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday experience. Hanko provides you with seaside fun, outdoor activities, beautiful accommodations near the sea, an abundance of beauty, vibrant culture, and so much history.

There are plenty of things to do here on a holiday, such as hiking unspoiled trails, strolling on the lovely streets, and paddleboarding in the water. Certainly, Hanko is one of the must-visit cities in Finland.

Things to See in Hanko- Hanko Casino, Bellevue Beach, Tulliniemi Nature Path, Hanko Museum, Path of Love, etc.

5. Savonlinna

Savonlinna is another jewel of Finland that lies in the pleasant Saimaa Lake region. One of the best cities in Finland, Savonlinna is a picturesque town set amidst lakes, forests, and islands. Settled perfectly in the Finnish Lakeland, Savonlinna is best known for its Opera festival. It is a soulful hub for all the opera-lovers.

The best part about holidaying here is you can experience the best of kayaking, paddleboarding, concerts, guided tours, and summer theatre. Savonlinna has so much to explore and see. It is one of the best cities to visit in Finland for many reasons.

Things to See in Savonlinna- Olavinlinna Castle, Riihisaari, Savonlinna Little Church, Kerimaki Church, etc.

6. Mariehamn

Mariehamn, the capital of Aland, is one of the most-loved tourist destinations in Finland. Aland is an autonomous region that consists of over 6500 islands that offer many things for travelers to indulge in. Mariehamn is among the best cities in Finland to visit for a fulfilling Finnish vacation. It is a cute small town that has so many cafes, shopping stops, restaurants, and cultural experiences to embrace within the city.

You can also enjoy outdoor things like pop events, jazz festivals, and other activities. There are numerous attractions that showcase the cultural heritage.

Things to See in Mariehamn- Aland Islands Art Museum, Aland Maritime Museum, Cultural History Museum of Aland, etc.

7. Turku

The oldest city in Finland is Turku. It was also the former capital of Finland. Today, it is one of the best cities in Finland that brims with cultural heritage, spectacular architecture, buzzing nightlife, impressive restaurants & bars, and vibrant festivals & events. All of its attractions date back to the 13th century and are all sorts of treasures for tourists to unveil.

Turku dazzles with ancient touch and youthful vibe with thriving art scenes and music festivals going on in now and then. Being one of the best cities to visit in Finland, Turku set the stage for a fun-filled vacation.
 
Things to See in Turku- Turku Art Museum, Luostarinmaki Open-Air Museum, Ett Hem Museum, Turku Cathedral, etc.

8. Tampere

For a laid-back vacation, Tampere is one of the most gorgeous cities in Finland. Settled between the two lakes, Tampere is famous for its scenic landscapes, breathtaking architecture, riverbank trail, and various festivals. Tampere is also most prominently known for its saunas. There are approximately 55 saunas in Tampere. These saunas offer a day of rejuvenation on your Finland holiday.

Tampere has all the reasons to be one of the best cities to visit in Finland, from pretty cafes to vibrant art galleries, buzzing nightlife, and numerous film, theatre, jazz, & art festivals.

Things to See in Tampere- Lenin Museum, Tampere Art Museum, The Hiekka Art Museum, Sara Hilden Art Museum, etc.

9. Oulu

Oulu is the most beautiful city in Finland. It dazzles with advanced technology, tourist attractions, and summer fun. Unlike most cities in Finland, Oulu is more of a summer destination. With lakes and waterways, Oulu offers a rejuvenating holiday experience. There are city squares swamped with restaurants, cafes, shops, and food stalls, making it an ideal place to indulge in sunshine strolling.

You can enjoy many summer activities here, such as kayaking, cycling, and cafe-hopping. If you are on the lookout for a joyful time in Finland, you should visit Oulu.

Things to See in Oulu- Galleria MABD, Oulu Music Center, Hupisaaret Islands, Turkansaari Open-Air Museum, Nallikari Beach, etc.

10. Espoo

Espoo, the most sustainable city in the world, is one of the largest cities in Finland. Positioned on the Baltic Sea, Espoo has so much history, outdoor activities, island fun, and museums to immerse yourself in. Espoo is a blend of contemporary life and quaint nature. From its modern art museum to its beautiful seashore, lake-filled highlands, and ancient cathedrals, Espoo offers so much to explore, feel, and witness.

With all this and more, it is undoubtedly one of the best cities in Finland to visit. Every landscape of this city is filled with cultural landscapes, architectural marvels, and nature-rich attractions.

Things to See in Espoo- Espoo Museum of Modern Art, Espoo Cathedral, Nuuksio National Park, Espoo Vanha Kiskko, etc.

11. Rauma

Rauma is among the oldest towns in Finland. Settled on the western coast of Finland, Rauma is a medieval town with wooden-built houses that speak the history of Finland. It is on the list of top cities in Finland that has ample pretty cafes, lovely boutiques, contemporary museums, and charming gardens.

If you are a photography enthusiast, Rauma is a must-visit place. One of the immersive experiences of Rauma is its art and culture. Throughout this city, you will see different sculptures and beautiful medieval buildings.

Things to See in Rauma- Rauma Summer Theatre, Old Rauma, Rauma Art Museum, Rauma Maritime Museum, Rauman Museo, etc.

12. Lappeenranta

Lappeenranta is one of the most popular summer cities in Finland. Among the most gorgeous destinations in the country, Lappeenranta is famed for its unmatched nature, modern infrastructure, and charming experiences. Lappeenranta is an idyllic Finnish city. It has lakes, forests, countryside, historical significance, and natural beauty, which make tourists stay here longer.

Packed with countless tourist attractions and things to do, Lappeenranta is making its way to all the tourist’s hearts. Certainly, it deserves to be on the list of best cities to visit in Finland for its untouched nature.

Things to See in Lappeenranta- Galleria Pihatto, South Karelia Museum, Lappeenranta Museum of Art, Ylamaa Gem Village, Cavalry Museum, etc.

13. Vantaa

Positioned in southern Finland, Vantaa is an impressive city in the country, packed with historical attractions, shopping malls, art museums, and natural trails. Vanta is one of the best cities in Finland for day trips, walking tours, and sightseeing excursions. Moreover, there are so many things to do for thrill-seekers in Vantaa.

Whether you want to indulge in a shopping spree, take a swim in the lake of Kuusijarvi, or explore beautiful tourist attractions, Vantaa has everything you want on a Finnish holiday. If you are on the hunt to find a stunning city in Finland for your upcoming vacation, add Vantaa to your list.

Things to See in Vantaa- Vantaa Agricultural Museum, Vantaa Art Museum, Vantaa City Museum, Jokiuoma Riverside Park, etc.

14. Joensuu

Joensuu is one of the university towns in Finland, famous for its youth population. It is one of the most fascinating cities in Finland, teeming with folk music, rock festivals, and art scenes. There are various beautiful gardens and butterfly parks that house different plant species. Due to its proximity to Helsinki, you can also explore these breathtaking places within a day.

Most of Joensuu’s population is youthful so you will feel the city has a zestful vibe and ambiance. That’s not it. Joensuu also thrives on its gorgeous tropical landscapes, which are no less than a natural attraction for tourists. Therefore, it is one of the best cities in Finland to visit for every right reason.

Things to See in Joensuu- Joensuu Art Museum, Botania Art Garden, Kukkola Farm, Joensuu Bunker Museum, North Karelian Museum, etc.

15. Kuopio

Another majestic charm on the list of popular cities in Finland is Kuopio. It is fondly known as the Lakeland city because of its location. Settled in the Lakeland region of Finland surrounded by two giant lakes, Kuopio has a mix of urban buzz and nature’s quietness. This splendid city has incredible museums, restaurants, and the greatest sauna in the world.

Every landscape here is blessed with the best of nature, architecture, and culture. The night scenes of Kuopio are the cherry on top for your Finnish vacation. You can also immerse yourself in some street shopping at Kuopio Market Square.

Things to See in Kuopio- Vanuvuori Observation Tower, Savolanniemi Beach, Pisa Nature Preserve, Kuopio Animal Park, Kuopio Art Museum, etc.

Explore: 20+ Best Things to Do in Finland

Discover the Best Cities in Finland with Dook

Finland is a wonderland that awaits you. It is a gateway to dreamland swamped with everything you ever want to experience or see. Be it the midnight sun, northern lights, UNESCO sites, lush landscapes, Lakelands, or snow resorts, everything here is beyond a traveler’s expectations.

If after reading this post, you feel like holidaying in Finland, get in touch with Dook International right away! We have affordable and customized Finland tour packages. There are ongoing discounts on our Finland travel packages that you shouldn’t miss.

We keep the travel preferences of travelers in mind and ensure you enjoy a stress-free holiday in this gorgeous country. So, what’s holding you back from booking a much-needed holiday in Finland? Book now with us and enjoy!

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