Finland – Santa’s homeland

Finland is the big surprise of the Nordic countries; natural wonderland with more trees than people and more islands than any other country in the world. Finland is characterized by endless kilometers of wilderness, 188.000 lakes, temperate climate, renovated palaces and industrial areas, phenomenal boulevards and monuments, fascinating restaurants and wonderful cafes, Gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries and antique museums that represent a rich cultural heritage.

One of the most visited tourist destinations in Scandinavia, Finland invites travelers from all over the world to explore its wondrous attractions and spend a vacation that will always stay in memory. Have you ever thought about swimming in icy water? In Finland, this is a sport and it is considered excellent for your health: it improves circulation, eases arthritis symptoms and simply makes you feel happy and satisfied. But, in addition to health benefits Finland is represented by a very strong, competitive spirit of its people. The men and women between 20 and 60 years of age are competing in swimming in icy 25 meters, in various parts of the country for the whole year, and all for the glory of acknowledgement that they swam in the icy depths of the sea and survived to tell the story about it. So, be the part of the fun and enjoy a “frozen” vacation in the icy Scandinavian country.

When to travel?

The tourist season in southern Finland lasts from early June to late August, when all the attractions are open, steamers and ferries are circling the lakes and rivers, and festivals are in full swing. This is the time of the long, bright nights, when Finland does not seem to sleep. The tourist season in northern Finland, including Lapland, is different. Mosquitoes can be unbearably boring in July, but September is much more comfortable with its autumn colors. October and February / March are good months to visit Lapland.

What to visit?

Aland Islands – a unique group of islands, with their own different culture, flag and postage stamps. The islands are dotted with medieval churches and old fishing villages, and are particularly interesting for biking, camping or holiday in a log cabin.

Lapland – Land of the midnight sun and northern lights, Finnish province of Lapland is one of the world’s largest wild and untouched regions, sparsely populated very friendly and hospitable people. With its mountains, uninhabited forests, magnificent clear lakes, streams and rapids, etc. this region offers tourists a dream holiday. Lapland is also home to Santa Claus. Visit the Santapark and meet Santa Claus in person.

Inari – This is the main community of Lapps (Saami) in the region and the center of the original Lapps’ handicrafts – even though the galleries and shops are a little commercialized, this is the best place in Finland to buy real Lappish handmade textiles, jewelry, silver and woodwork.

Oulu – one of the cities in Finland to visit with the utmost pleasure. Centre extends over several islands, linked by elegant pedestrian bridges. This arrangement has created the ideal conditions for cycling, and Oulu has a network of bike paths, which is one of the best in Europe. Oulu, the biggest city north of Tampere and the sixth largest in Finland, it is also one of the world’s leading technological cities.