1. Helsinki
City
Helsinki is known for its striking balance between urban life and nature. The city is surrounded by the Baltic Sea, and its archipelago consists of around 300 islands, which are easily accessible by boat. Visit nearby countries as well as like, Sweden, and Russia, Estonia (Tallinn).
Explore the City
There is an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine such as saunas that are deeply ingrained in Finnish culture. You will find a wide range of both public and private saunas. Many of the city's sights and attractions centre around the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church.
Look out for numerous galleries, theatres, and concert venues including:
Helsinki festival
Flow festival
Lux Helsinki
Wildlife
For those wishing to experience wildlife and wilderness there is thousands of lakes surrounded by beautiful forest-covered hills and valleys, snow-capped mountains and the spectacular aurora borealis (Northern Light). Visit Saimaa, Finland's largest lake and Oulanka National Park or Nuuksio National Park.
You also have the option to set up camp as Finland’s “
Right to Roam” law allows you to set up a tent anywhere you like as long as you are not disturbing any people or the surrounding nature, however, the weather in Helsinki can be quite cold during winter, and averages around -6°C (21°F). Be prepared for much lower temperatures too.
(Oulanka National Park, Finland)
Food
The city offers everything from traditional Finnish cuisine such as chanterelle soup, a sweet blueberry pie or exquisite fresh salmon. Visit local markets like Hakaniemi Market Hall and Hietalahti Market Hall to sample fresh Finnish pastries and seafood.
For those seeking a unique dining experience of authentic Finnish food with delicious flavours and wild herbs then Restaurant Juuri in Helsinki is definitely a must!
Next to the metro station you’ll also find several Middle Eastern restaurants, where you can try a kebab, pitta breads, lentil soup, and kefir and more. There are even a few places where you can enjoy good shisha.
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