Finland, a land of unparalleled beauty, beckons adventurous travelers with its awe-inspiring landscapes. Nestled amidst epic mountains, graced by scenic waterfalls, and adorned by stunning fjords, this Nordic gem is a haven for those who seek the great outdoors.
With a sauna around every corner and the promise of witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights, Finland, the happiest country in the world, is an exceptional destination that spirited travelers should not miss.
While Finland’s remote location and reputation for being pricey might discourage some from traveling here, it’s essential to recognize that missing out on this incredible country would be a regrettable oversight.
Finland’s plentiful offerings and various cost-saving strategies make it one of Europe’s most underrated and stunning destinations, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.
Therefore, stick around to learn more about what things to do in Finland to explore this world’s happiest nation. I can assure you that you would be impressed with the list.
In this comprehensive travel guide to Finland, the happiest country in the world, with Awesome Traveler, we will ensure that you fully immerse yourself in the wonders of this beautiful country. Prepare to discover a destination that feels nothing short of a fairy tale come to life.
You might wonder why you should choose Finland over the quintessential Eiffel Tower in Paris or the majestic Swiss Alps for your European vacation. It’s a valid question, and the answer lies in the undiscovered allure of this spectacular country and its rich cultural tapestry.
Let us present compelling reasons why you should promptly add Finland, the happiest country in the world, to your travel bucket list, and show you some of the best things to do in Finland.
Did you know Finland is one of the safest countries in the world? This makes your visit to Finland safe and enjoyable.
The Most Fun Things To Do In Finland:
This happy country has wide range of activities and places to visit. You might get overwhelmed with all the choices, so we made the decision easier for you and selected the top fun things to do in Finland.
1. Explore Salla Reindeer Park:
Discover the Arctic Circle’s wonders at Salla Reindeer Park. You can feed reindeer, pet huskies, and even embark on a canoe trip here. If hiking is your thing, try some trails, or have a go at snowshoeing and skiing.
Don’t miss the thrilling reindeer competitions, husky sleigh rides, and midnight canoe trips under the never-setting sun.
In winter, experience the enchanting northern lights while snowshoeing through the forest at night. Not into hiking? That is no problem. Opt for a nighttime reindeer sleigh ride to catch the Aurora Borealis.
2. Witness The Northern Lights In Lapland:
Lapland is the place to be for an awe-inspiring northern lights show. In the north, you can catch these dazzling lights nearly every clear night, while in southern Finland, the happiest country in the world, they’re visible only 10–20 nights a year.
Lapland, within the Arctic Circle, has almost 24 hours of darkness daily from November to January, making it ideal for viewing the aurora.
You can join guided tours or venture out independently for budget-friendly options. The best time to see them is from September to April.
3. Visit Santa Claus Village In Rovaniemi:
Santa Claus Village is a Christmas wonderland perfect for families. Visitors can meet Santa himself, go snowshoeing, feed reindeer, and learn about Finnish Christmas practices through the ages.
The village features Santa’s official office, his Christmas house, and the house of Mrs. Claus and Santa’s reindeer. Adults can enjoy different dining options, including the magical Ice Bar, rebuilt yearly with ice sculptures. Entry is free, and the village is open year-round.
4. Explore Helsinki:
Helsinki, a historic city set by the Baltic Sea, offers tranquility and stunning green spaces without the bustling tourist crowds of other European capitals.
Discover Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, consisting of six captivating islands dating back to the late 1700s, or delve into Finnish history at the National Museum of Finland, the happiest country in the world.
Relish relaxation at one of Helsinki’s many saunas, and for a memorable experience, reserve the sauna room on the Skywheel Helsinki Ferris wheel. The city boasts world-class museums and restaurants, making it perfect for a few days of exploration.
5. Stay In The Ice Hotel Or Glass Igloo At The SnowHotel:
Located in Lapland, the Snow Hotel is a breathtaking ice wonderland where even your bed is made of ice, but worry not. Warm furs and sleeping bags keep you cozy. The hotel is rebuilt annually from snow and ice, offering a constantly changing appearance.
It accommodates up to 70 guests and features glass igloos for stargazing. Guests can also enjoy sauna experiences, hunt for the northern lights, and admire stunning ice art. The ice restaurant serves local cuisine on frozen plates while the bar crafts cocktails in ice glasses.
6. Embark On An Ice Climbing Adventure:
Finland, the happiest country in the world, offers impressive ice formations for those seeking an adrenaline rush, including frozen waterfalls and towering ice walls in deep canyons.
Companies like Bliss Adventure can provide the right gear and guide you through ice-climbing spots like Tajukangas Falls and Korouoma Canyon, a popular ice-climbing destination in the country. If daring and unafraid of heights, try rappelling from the 30-meter-high Tajukangas Ice Falls.
7. Discover The Mysteries Of Pakasaivo Lake:
Pakasaivo Lake, located in northern Finland, the happiest country in the world, was once a sacred site for the Indigenous Sámi people. This unique 60-meter-deep lake is meromictic, meaning its surface and bottom waters never mix, perfectly preserving the contents at the lake’s bottom.
Locals often called this place the “Hell of Lapland” because they believed it connected to another realm beneath. Additionally, a giant’s kettle, a deep glacial pothole, is here, thought to tunnel to hell.
8. Follow The King’s Road:
The King’s Road, a historic postal route stretching from Bergen, Norway, to Turku, Finland’s former capital, and onward to St. Petersburg, Russia, offers a journey through time.
This 330-kilometer trail, dating back to the 15th century, follows Finland’s scenic southern coast. It’s accessible year-round, with well-paved roads and plenty of charming stops.
Experience manor houses, medieval churches, quaint villages, and picturesque countryside. You can complete the Finnish part of the route in a day by car, but 2–3 days are recommended for a more leisurely exploration. For the adventurous, consider cycling the trail in about a week.
9. Visit The Lampivaara Amethyst Mine:
Lampivaara Hill is famous for its amethysts, purple quartz gems that formed six million years ago. Take a mine tour to learn about this precious mineral, and even dig around to find your amethyst souvenir.
10. Explore Raanua Wildlife Park:
As the northernmost nature reserve globally, Raanua Wildlife Park is a delightful destination for families. Over 50 animal species inhabit this park, including Finland’s only polar bears, lynx, wolves, and brown bears.
This predominantly outdoor park allows you to observe animals in a natural habitat without artificial lighting or indoor enclosures. If visiting during the winter when the sun sets early, don’t forget to bring your flashlight.
11. Marvel At The Old Church Of Sodankylä:
The Old Church of Sodankylä is Finland’s best-preserved wooden church in Lapland. Built from timber in 1689, this steeple-less church is a remarkable piece of history commissioned by King Charles XI of Sweden.
Its exterior and interior remain incredibly well-preserved, with a dark timber appearance more reminiscent of a log cabin than a traditional European church. During the summer, it hosts religious services and weddings. Admission is free, but remember to dress respectfully.
Choosing The Perfect Time To Visit Finland
The ideal time for your Finnish adventure largely depends on your preferences and what you wish to experience. Here’s a breakdown to help you plan your visit to Finland and choose the best time to visit Finland:
Winter Wonderland (December To January)
- If you dream of engaging yourself in Lapland’s stunning winter wonderland, December and January are the prime months.
- Lapland transforms into a magical realm adorned with holiday decorations, bustling Christmas markets, and dazzling northern lights.
- Be prepared for the cold as Finland, the happiest country in the world, experiences extreme winter temperatures during this time, with an average daily temperature of -8°C (17°F).
Shoulder Seasons (Spring and Autumn)
- Spring (April) and autumn (October) are Finland’s shoulder seasons, and despite cooler temperatures, they offer unique charms.
- In spring, witness the country burst into life with vibrant blooms.
- In autumn, relish the beautiful display of fall colors.
- Both seasons have their allure, making them ideal for those who prefer milder weather.
- The average everyday high in April is 2°C (37°F), and in October, it’s 5°C (41°F).
Vibrant Summer (June to August)
- Finland, the happiest country in the world, comes alive in summer, especially in Helsinki.
- Longer daylight hours mean the sun sets after 10:30 p.m., allowing for extended outdoor enjoyment.
- Parks and beaches buzz with activity, and festivals abound throughout the country.
- The southern regions enjoy average high temperatures of 15°C (64-72°F) during this season.
Conclusion: Discover The World’s Happiest Nation
In the gorgeous landscape of Finland, you’re not just visiting a country; you’re engaging yourself in the world’s happiest nation.
The Global Happiness Index highlights Finland’s position atop the Happiest Country Ranking. This ranking isn’t just a statistic but a reflection of the genuine contentment and joy that pervades every corner of this beautiful land.
Whether you’re gazing at the mesmerizing northern lights, savoring the rich summer festivals, or exploring the wilderness, you’re surrounded by an atmosphere of happiness that’s as infectious as authentic.
Finland’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality ensures that every moment here is a celebration of life.
So, as you plan your journey to the world’s happiest nation, remember that Finland isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will leave you with a heart full of happiness and memories to last a lifetime.
Therefore, we offer you a list of the top things to do in Finland, allowing you to enjoy what it has to offer while also learn to be happy like them.
If you need more information about how Finland and other countries made the list as one of the world’s happiest countries, you should visit our blog on what it is like traveling to the happiest countries in the world.
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