It may seem too cold, far away and with too many hours of darkness throughout the year, but the truth is that there are many reasons that could encourage you to travel to Finland : its virgin forests, its many lakes and islands, its unique activities ( bathing in an icy pool, meeting Santa Claus, skiing with reindeer …), the northern lights, the certainty that you will not be surrounded by tourists …
Beyond Helsinki, its capital, there are many places worth visiting in Finland. To prove it, today we are going to tell you about the most beautiful towns in the country. Would you like to join us?
Rovaniemi
How could it be otherwise, let’s start by talking about the town of Santa Claus (yes, Santa Claus lives in Finland). We are referring to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland in Finland. Located in the Arctic Circle, it has become a very modern city, which allows different activities: snowmobiling, reindeer or husky safaris, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, river cruises, watching the sun midnight … Of course, what makes this place one of the most special in the country is that it allows you to enjoy Christmas throughout the year.
Savonlinna
Another place that cannot be missing on this list is Savonlinna, a charming town located in a magical setting. And it is divided into a string of islands distributed between the Haapavesi and Pihlajavesi lakes. What is most impressive about this place is its castle, called Olavinlinna, which is located on an island. Plus, you’ll love the views from the Kyrönsalmo Strait Bridge.
Naantali
Located 20 minutes from the city of Turku, in southwestern Finland, the town of Naantali has become one of the main tourist attractions in Finland, something that is not surprising, since it hides a beautiful old town made up of houses of wood. In addition, it is bathed by the sea on three sides, so during the summer yachts invade the coast of this town.
Salla
Located in Finnish Lapland, straddling Rovaniemi and Kuusamo and very close to the Russian border, we find Salla, a small town of houses built with noble materials, snow of the highest quality and a beautiful forest. Here you can take cruises in large boats (only in summer), enjoy one of the best ski resorts in the world, visit the reindeer and husky park …
Porvoo
Also not to be missed on this list is Porvoo, a picturesque town located 50 kilometers from Helsinki. Considered the second oldest city in Finland (it was founded 800 years ago), it is also a source of inspiration and home to many Finnish artists. De Porvoo highlights its river , which passes through the most important areas of the town, such as the well-known red houses that are on the coast. Apparently, these houses were painted in this color in honor of Gustav III, King of Sweden, who came to Porvoo.
Petäjävesi
Knowing that we left many beautiful villages in the pipeline, we will end our tour of Finland in Petäjävesi, a small and quiet town that houses the so-called Old Church, built in natural pine between 1763 and 1765. Typical example of the tradition architectural of eastern Scandinavia, the Lutheran church combines Renaissance details with other Gothic. It is important to note that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994. Furthermore, Petäjävesi is known for Lake Karikkoselkä, which is formed in an impact crater.