Is Finland worth seeing?

Finland is absolutely worth seeing for travellers seeking authentic natural experiences, unique cultural encounters, and year-round adventures that differ from typical European destinations. This Nordic country offers pristine wilderness, spectacular natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and midnight sun, and a distinctive culture centred around sauna traditions and connection with nature. Whether you’re drawn to winter activities in destinations like Ruka or summer explorations across thousands of lakes, Finland provides experiences you simply cannot find elsewhere in Europe.

What makes Finland different from other Nordic countries?

Finland stands apart from its Scandinavian neighbours through its distinct Finno-Ugric language, unique cultural identity, and unparalleled wilderness areas. Whilst Sweden, Norway, and Denmark share linguistic and historical roots, Finnish belongs to an entirely different language family, reflecting the country’s separate cultural heritage. This difference extends beyond language to a quieter, more introspective national character that values personal space and authentic connection with nature.

The Finnish landscape offers something truly special. With over 188,000 lakes and 75% forest coverage, Finland provides access to pristine wilderness that feels genuinely untouched. The country’s eastern location means you’ll experience more extreme seasonal variations, from the magical midnight sun that never sets in summer to the dancing Northern Lights during long winter nights. These natural phenomena are more reliably visible here than in neighbouring countries.

Sauna culture represents perhaps the most distinctive Finnish tradition. With over 3 million saunas for a population of 5.5 million, sauna isn’t just recreation but a way of life deeply embedded in Finnish identity. This practice goes far beyond what you’ll find in other Nordic countries, serving as a space for relaxation, socialisation, and even business meetings. At destinations like Ruka, you can experience authentic sauna traditions alongside lakeside settings that have remained unchanged for generations.

When is the best time to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland depends entirely on which natural phenomena and activities interest you most. Winter months from December to March offer the Northern Lights, snow-covered landscapes, and winter sports, whilst summer from June to August brings the midnight sun, warm weather, and endless outdoor activities. Each season provides completely different experiences, making Finland a genuine year-round destination rather than a single-season wonder.

Winter transforms Finland into a snowy wonderland perfect for those seeking Arctic experiences. In destinations like Ruka, you’ll find excellent conditions for skiing, snowmobiling, and husky sledding from December through April. The Northern Lights are visible from September to March, with peak viewing during the darkest months of December and January. We offer comprehensive holiday packages to Finland during winter that combine cosy log cabin accommodation with Northern Lights viewing opportunities and winter activities, allowing you to experience the magic without worrying about complex planning.

Summer reveals a completely different Finland. From late May to early August, the midnight sun creates nearly 24-hour daylight in Lapland, offering unique opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching at unconventional hours. The weather is surprisingly pleasant, with temperatures reaching 20-25°C in many areas. Lakes warm enough for swimming, forests filled with berries, and long days perfect for exploration make summer ideal for nature lovers and families.

The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer their own rewards. Spring brings the awakening of nature and longer days without summer crowds, whilst autumn showcases spectacular foliage colours called “ruska” and marks the beginning of Northern Lights season. These periods often provide better value and a more peaceful experience of Finland’s natural beauty.

What can you actually do in Finland?

Finland offers an extraordinary range of authentic outdoor adventures and cultural experiences that justify the journey from anywhere in the world. Winter activities include snowmobiling through frozen forests, husky sledding across pristine landscapes, ice fishing on frozen lakes, and cross-country skiing through silent wilderness. These aren’t tourist fabrications but genuine ways Finns have interacted with their environment for generations, making them feel authentic rather than staged.

Summer opens entirely different possibilities. You can kayak or canoe across the lake district, hike through national parks with well-maintained trails, forage for wild berries and mushrooms, and experience the unique phenomenon of fishing under the midnight sun. The extensive network of “everyman’s rights” allows you to roam freely through nature, camp in most areas, and pick wild berries, giving you genuine freedom to explore.

Cultural experiences add depth to outdoor adventures. Every visit to Finland should include proper sauna experiences, from traditional smoke saunas to modern lakeside facilities. You can explore Sami culture in Lapland, visit design districts in Helsinki, or experience local food traditions featuring fresh fish, game, and foraged ingredients. At Ruka, we combine these elements in our holiday packages to Finland, offering stays in traditional log chalets where you can experience authentic Finnish hospitality alongside access to diverse activities throughout the year.

The breadth of experiences means Finland suits different travel styles. Adventure seekers find endless winter sports and wilderness challenges. Families enjoy safe, well-organised activities in stunning natural settings. Those seeking relaxation discover peaceful lakeside retreats and rejuvenating sauna traditions. You’re not limited to a single type of holiday but can blend adventure, culture, and relaxation in ways that match your interests.

Is Finland expensive to visit compared to other European destinations?

Finland is more expensive than southern European destinations but comparable to other Nordic countries and major Western European cities. Accommodation ranges from budget hostels at €30-50 per night to luxury hotels at €200-400, with mid-range hotels and holiday apartments typically costing €80-150. Restaurant meals average €15-20 for lunch and €25-40 for dinner, whilst supermarket shopping for self-catering offers significant savings and costs similar to other Northern European countries.

Activity pricing varies considerably. Many of Finland’s greatest experiences, like hiking, berry picking, and enjoying nature under everyman’s rights, are completely free. Organised activities such as husky sledding, snowmobile safaris, and guided tours typically cost €100-200 per person. National park entry is free, though some facilities charge modest fees. The key to managing costs is balancing paid activities with free natural experiences that are equally memorable.

Transport represents another significant cost consideration. Domestic flights between cities are reasonably priced when booked in advance, whilst trains and buses offer comfortable alternatives. Hiring a car provides flexibility for exploring remote areas but involves higher costs for both rental and fuel. In destinations like Ruka, choosing holiday packages to Finland that include airport transfers and accommodation can provide better value than booking elements separately, whilst also simplifying logistics.

The value perspective matters when assessing Finland’s costs. You’re paying for pristine natural environments, safe and well-maintained facilities, unique experiences unavailable elsewhere, and a high standard of service. The midnight sun, Northern Lights, vast wilderness areas, and authentic cultural experiences justify higher costs for many travellers. We structure our packages to maximise value by combining quality accommodation, activities, and local experiences at rates more favourable than booking independently, allowing you to experience Finland’s best offerings whilst managing your budget effectively.