pickyourtrail_logo
Login
PYT - IndiaPYT - United StatesPYT - United Arab Emirates
award-image
  1. Home
  2. Tourism
  3. Finland Tourism Guide : Complete Travel Guide for Your Perfect Nordic Adventure

Finland Tourism Guide : Complete Travel Guide for Your Perfect Nordic Adventure

Pick your next Hassle-free holiday with us

Finland is where nature, innovation, and Nordic charm come together. From the magical Northern Lights in Lapland to the design-forward streets of Helsinki, Finland offers an unmatched mix of wilderness, culture, and comfort. This Finland tourism guide is your all-in-one resource for planning a seamless trip, covering the best time to visit, must-see destinations, travel costs, visa information, and insider tips from local experiences. Whether you’re chasing the auroras, exploring the midnight sun, or immersing in Finnish saunas and lakeside serenity, this Finland travel guide will help you travel smarter, deeper, and more confidently through one of Europe’s most beautiful and sustainable destinations.

Key Takeaways

  • Best time for Finland tourism: December to March for winter activities and Northern Lights viewing, June to August for midnight sun and outdoor adventures, while September offers autumn colours with fewer crowds.
  • Budget planning: Expect INR 8,000–15,000 per day for mid-range Finland travel, including accommodation, meals, and attractions.
  • Essential Finland travel tips: Book Northern Lights tours and husky safaris during winter months in advance, invest in proper winter clothing for Arctic temperatures, use efficient public transport or rental cars for exploring, and plan 7–10 days minimum to experience both urban culture and Lapland wilderness.
  • Best regions: Helsinki for urban culture and design, Rovaniemi for Santa Claus Village and Arctic experiences, Levi for ski resorts and winter sports, or the Lakeland region for summer cottage experiences.
  • Visa requirements: Indian visitors need a Schengen visa applied through the Finnish Embassy or VFS Global, allowing stays up to 90 days within 180 days.

Best Time to Visit Finland: Weather, Seasons & Ideal Months

Finland experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences and activities that define your perfect Nordic adventure.

Winter Season in Finland (December–March):

Finland’s winter is pure magic, with snowy forests, Northern Lights, and cosy igloos. With temperatures between -5°C and -30°C, it’s the best time for husky rides, reindeer safaris, skiing, and visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

Spring Season in Finland (April–May):

As snow melts and temperatures rise to 0–15°C, nature awakens. Expect fewer tourists, lower prices, and vibrant Easter markets. Wildlife spotting and peaceful landscapes make it a serene time to visit.

Summer Season in Finland (June–August):

With 15–25°C days and endless sunlight, summer is Finland’s liveliest season. Enjoy the Midnight Sun, lakeside saunas, music festivals, hiking, and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Autumn Season in Finland (September–November):

Cool 5–15°C days bring ruska, Finland’s autumn foliage season. Ideal for Northern Lights sightings, forest foraging, and harvest festivals, autumn offers tranquillity and vivid natural beauty without the crowds.

Top Tourist Attractions in Finland

Finland combines stunning natural landscapes with innovative urban design and rich cultural heritage across its diverse regions.

Famous Landmarks in Finland

  • Helsinki Cathedral: Iconic neoclassical landmark overlooking Senate Square and Helsinki’s harbour.
  • Suomenlinna Fortress: UNESCO-listed sea fortress spread across six islands, with museums and cafes.
  • Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi.
  • Icebreaker Sampo: Cruise through frozen seas and float in icy waters in survival suits, a true Arctic thrill.

Cultural and Historical Places to Visit in Finland

  • National Museum of Finland: Traces Finnish history from prehistoric times to independence.
  • Ateneum Art Museum: Home to Finland’s greatest artworks and national treasures.
  • Old Rauma: A charming UNESCO wooden town with colourful houses and cobblestone streets.
  • Sami Cultural Centre Sajos: Explore the traditions and modern life of Finland’s indigenous Sami people.

Best Family-Friendly Attractions in Finland

  • Moomin World: Meet the beloved Moomins in this storybook theme park in Naantali.
  • Linnanmäki Amusement Park: Helsinki’s fun park with rides, roller coasters, and an aquarium.
  • Ranua Wildlife Park: Arctic zoo featuring polar bears, lynx, and Arctic foxes in natural habitats.
  • SantaPark Arctic World: An underground Christmas theme park where kids meet elves and Santa all year.

Best Things to Do in Finland

Finland Food Guide: What and Where to Eat

Taste Finland’s pure, hearty cuisine rooted in local ingredients and Nordic traditions. Try karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasties), poronkäristys (sautéed reindeer), and kalakukko (fish-filled rye bread). In summer, enjoy fresh berries and herring; in winter, root vegetables and game meats. Don’t miss Finnish coffee culture; pair your brew with pulla, a cardamom-scented sweet bread.

Shopping in Finland: Best Markets and Malls for Souvenirs

  • Hakaniemi Market Hall: Fresh foods and Finnish crafts since 1914.
  • Old Market Hall, Helsinki: Gourmet Finnish delicacies by the harbour.
  • Stockmann Department Store: Iconic for Finnish brands and festive shopping.
  • Iittala & Arabia Design Centre: Iconic Finnish glass and ceramic design.
  • Rovaniemi Christmas Markets: Handcrafted Lappish souvenirs and winter cheer.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Trails in Finland

  • Northern Lights Tours: Watch the aurora dance across Lapland skies (Sep–Mar).
  • Husky Safaris: Mush through snowy forests on thrilling sledge rides.
  • Cross-Country Skiing: Glide along thousands of scenic trails.
  • Kayaking on Lake Saimaa: Paddle through Finland’s island-dotted lake region.
  • Midnight Sun Hikes: Trek under 24-hour daylight in Lapland’s national parks.
  • Finnish Sauna Rituals: Relax in steamy saunas, then plunge into icy lakes for the true Finnish experience.

How to Reach Finland

From Airports

  • Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL): Just 18 km from the city, connected by the Ring Rail Line (30 mins to Central Station). Finnair buses and taxis offer quick transfers to hotels and downtown.
  • Rovaniemi Airport: Main gateway to Lapland with buses, hotel shuttles, and tour transfers to resorts and the city centre.

Public Transport, Trains & Car Rentals in Finland

  • Trains (VR): Fast, reliable network linking major cities. High-speed Pendolino trains cover the south; overnight sleepers connect Helsinki to Lapland.
  • Public Transport: Helsinki’s metro, trams, buses, and ferries run on unified tickets with real-time travel apps. Other cities have efficient bus systems.
  • Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring nature and national parks. Winter driving requires studded tyres and caution on icy roads.
  • Long-Distance Buses: Connect rural towns and national parks; a budget-friendly alternative to trains with year-round routes.

Where to Stay in Finland: Best Hotels by Budget

Luxury Resorts in Finland (₹20,000+ per night)

  • Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Rovaniemi
  • Hotel Kämp, Helsinki
  • Levin Iglut Golden Crown, Levi
  • Manta Resort, Pyhtää

Mid-Range Hotels in Finland (₹8,000–20,000 per night)

  • Hotel F6, Helsinki
  • Santa Claus Holiday Village, Rovaniemi
  • Break Sokos Hotel Tahkovuori
  • Scandic Tampere City

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses in Finland (₹3,500–8,000 per night)

  • Hostel Café Koti, Helsinki
  • Guesthouse Borealis, Rovaniemi
  • Hotel Cumulus Koskikatu Tampere
  • Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle

Finland Travel Cost: How Much Does a Finland Trip Cost ?

Travel Type

Daily Budget (INR)

Typical Experience

Budget Travel5,000–8,000Stay in hostels or budget hotels, prepare some meals, use public transport, and focus on free attractions and nature.
Mid-Range Travel8,000–15,000Choose 3-star hotels or cabin rentals, dine at casual restaurants, join organised tours, and rent cars for flexibility.
Luxury Travel20,000+Experience 5-star hotels and glass igloos, enjoy fine dining, book private tours and exclusive Arctic adventures.

Finland Visa for Indian Travellers: Schengen Requirements & Application Process

Indian citizens require a Schengen visa for travelling to Finland, with applications submitted through the Finnish Embassy or authorised visa application centres like VFS Global. The Schengen visa allows stays up to 90 days within any 180 days across Schengen member countries. Required documents include a valid passport, a completed application form, recent photographs, travel insurance, flight reservations, hotel bookings, and financial proof demonstrating sufficient funds for the trip. Processing typically requires 15 working days, though applying at least one month before travel is recommended. Visa fees approximate INR 7,000 for standard processing, with additional service charges for visa application centre services.

Finland Travel Essentials: Currency, Language, and Emergency Info

EssentialDetails
CurrencyEuro (€) (1 EUR ≈ INR 90)
VisaIndian citizens require a Schengen visa (up to 90 days)
Major AirportsHelsinki-Vantaa (HEL), Rovaniemi (RVN), Tampere-Pirkkala (TMP)
TransportationTrains, buses, trams, and car rentals
WeatherSubarctic/Continental; Summer (Jun–Aug) 15–25°C, Winter (Dec–Mar) -5°C to -30°C
Emergency NumbersGeneral Emergency: 112
LanguagesFinnish and Swedish (official); English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Why Book Your Finland Holiday Package With Us

Finland represents the ultimate destination for experiencing Nordic culture, pristine wilderness, and unforgettable Arctic adventures. The country offers something magical for every traveller, whether you're couples seeking Northern Lights romance, families creating Christmas memories, or adventurers pursuing outdoor challenges. Planning becomes seamless when booking a Finland holiday package through expert travel services. Knowledgeable advisors design personalised itineraries that balance urban culture with wilderness experiences according to individual interests and seasonal opportunities. Comprehensive support throughout your journey ensures smooth travels and immediate assistance for any unexpected situations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finland Tourism

How many days are enough to visit Finland?

A 7–10 day trip provides sufficient time to experience Helsinki's urban attractions, Lapland's Arctic adventures, and either summer lake regions or winter sports areas, depending on the season.

What is the average Finland travel cost per day?

Mid-range travellers should budget ₹8,000–15,000 per day; budget travellers ₹5,000–8,000; luxury experiences ₹20,000+, including accommodation, meals, transport, and activities.

When is the best weather to visit Finland?

December to March offers prime winter activities and Northern Lights viewing. June to August provides midnight sun, warm weather, and optimal outdoor conditions. September delivers autumn colours with fewer crowds.

Do Indian citizens need a visa to visit Finland?

Yes, Indian travellers require a Schengen visa applied through the Finnish Embassy or VFS Global, allowing stays up to 90 days within 180 days across Schengen countries.

What are the must-visit attractions in Finland?

Essential destinations include Helsinki Cathedral, Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Northern Lights viewing locations in Lapland, Moomin World, and the Finnish Lakeland region during summer

Which regions are best to stay in Finland?

Helsinki for urban culture and design, Rovaniemi for Arctic experiences and Santa tourism, Levi or Ruka for ski resorts, Finnish Lakeland for summer cottage experiences, and Inari for remote wilderness and Sami culture.

Is Finland suitable for honeymooners or family travellers?

Absolutely. Finland offers romantic glass igloo experiences, Northern Lights viewing, and luxury spa resorts for couples, while families enjoy Santa Claus Village, winter activities, Moomin World, and summer lake adventures that create lifelong memories.

Customise your own super hit itinerary
We think you are in .
Update your location?