Where to Go in Finland Beyond Helsinki for Medieval History and Creative Dining
When most of us think of Finland, chances are you’re imagining Helsinki, the picturesque capital. And truth be told, it’s likely that many of us can’t name any other cities in the Nordic nation aside from the capital. But Finland is filled with a myriad of hidden gem destinations, ranging from an outdoor lovers paradise to a city steeped in Finnish history.
Fresh air and natural beauty are just some of the many reasons to visit the happiest country in the world, but we’d be remiss not to mention that there’s plenty of culture to experience in broader Finland’s cities, including Rovaniemi, the capital of the Lapland region; the quaint wooden town of Porvoo; and the former Finnish capital of Turku. Make sure your Finland itinerary includes time for all three and they might just make Finland your new favorite European destination to visit again and again.
When to Visit Finland
To experience Finland’s wide range of snow activities, visit from late November to March, when the average temperatures range from low to mid-30s. For warm weather jet skiing, horseback riding, and comfortable strolls through town, opt for a late May through early August trip. Make reservations on the early side if you plan to visit during May to August, since tourism is at its height in the countryside during this time.
Rovaniemi
Fans of the great outdoors adore Rovaniemi. The city is filled with outdoor activities for both the cooler and warmer months, making it a great place to disconnect from the bustle of major cities and unwind.
Where to eat in Rovaniemi
While outdoor ventures may be the reason you visit Rovaniemi, you definitely shouldn’t sleep on the city’s budding food scene. Pop by the Arctic SnowHotel Ice Restaurant or the Glass Restaurant for unique winter dining experiences. The Arctic SnowHotel Ice Restaurant serves its meal to you within a restaurant made entirely of ice, whereas the Glass Restaurant offers you an incredible view of the Northern Lights thanks to its all-glass exterior. In the warmer months, head over to Restaurant Nabo or Restaurant Nili to experience classic Finnish dishes and evolving menus based on the season.
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Antti Kurola/Courtesy Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
Where to stay in Rovaniemi
Plan your visit around lodging in the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel to feel as if you’re sleeping in your own private snow globe. Each room is decorated with minimalist white decor, from the furniture and bedding to the walls and floors, along with a large floor-to-ceiling, north-facing window directly in front of the bed that allows for the best views of the Northern Lights during the winter season (and of the gorgeous greenery in the warmer months). The hotel is composed of just seven suites and five glass houses with two bedrooms in each, so books up fast.
What to do in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is known for being the hometown of Santa Claus. The area hosts a wide range of Christmas-related activities (including the Santa Claus Village) during the winter. However, you can also ski, dog-sled, snowboard, and spend all the time in the world doing any winter activity you can imagine. You may have a chance to spot the Northern Lights in winter, but, if you’re not a fan of winter sports or colder temperatures, the city is lovely in the summer as well. With white nights that never fall dark throughout the summer (from late May until early August), you’ll have 24 plenty of daylight to do activities like jet skiing, horseback riding, hiking, river cruising, and visiting husky and reindeer farms. Regardless of which season you choose to visit, you definitely won’t be bored.
Porvoo
When you’ve just arrived in a new country, ready to experience it all, one of the best introductions is to dive right into the food. Porvoo is just the place for that, filled with all things to satisfy a sophisticated palette.
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Where to eat in Porvoo
At first glance, the little wooden buildings of Porvoo may not seem like much, but hidden beneath is an array of charming cafes and exceptional bistros. Make a reservation at The Meat District, an affordable organic restaurant focused on ecological meats, for delicious creations from scratch; make sure you come hungry. If meat isn’t your thing, head to Bistro Sinne or SicaPelle; all are within walking distance of each other.
Where to stay in Porvoo
Porvoo’s hotels are scattered across the city; stay at the Boutique Hotel Onni for an intimate hotel housed right across from the Porvoo Cathedral. Its central location is great for those looking to stay near the city’s main attractions. The Hotel Haikko Manor hotel oozes cozy manor house ambience and is located in the middle of a scenic park by the sea. Since it’s within five kilometers (less than three miles) of the old town of Porvoo, you can get the best of both worlds within the city.
What to do in Porvoo
Old Porvoo is a great area to walk around since it’s filled with colorful wooden houses and winding cobblestone streets. You’ll have a blast exploring and finding beautiful historical scenery and architecture on your journey through the small town. With the city’s reputation for top-notch food, it’ll also be fun to head on a food tour to experience all the different cuisine options that Porvoo has to offer.
Turku
Finland’s former capital, also known as Turku, is filled with Finnish History. It’s also an outdoor playground for those who love hiking or cycling.
Where to eat in Turku
Due to its significant student population, it’s no surprise that Turku has a lively bar and restaurant scene. Head to Båthuset for a delicious breakfast, Cafe Qwensel for afternoon tea, and Nerå for a delicious Finnish and Mediterranean fused dinner. The city has also converted some of its boats along the river banks, including the former Baltic passenger steamer the S/S Bore into a hostel, and older buildings into trendy bars.
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Where to stay in Turku
For a hotel that’s right in the midst of things, opt to stay at the Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone, or Scandic Hamburger Börs. Thanks to their central locations, you can easily pop into a nearby market, explore the city, and experience the beauty of Turku during your stay. Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone’s decor mixes 1920s style with modern-day touches, whereas Scandic Hamburger Börs feels completely new and modern. Both will provide you with the best location to experience the city.
What to do in Turku
Since it was previously Finland’s capital, Turku has more than its fair share of historic attractions. Most of the historic landmarks are clustered around the riverbanks at the city center, making it pretty easy to navigate. However, you should opt to visit the largest medieval building in Finland: the 13th-century castle close to the ferry terminal, the Suomen Joutsen, and its museums, the Forum Marinum. Those who love cycling and hiking can walk along the beautiful nature routes or try their hand at their favorite outdoor activities during the warmer months.[……]
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