Finland-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Finnish Adventure: Land of Midnight Sun & Northern Lights

Visa Requirements: Check your nationality’s visa requirements for entering the Schengen Area. Many nationalities can enter Finland visa-free for tourism up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Transportation:

  • Flights: Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main international airport.
  • Trains: Efficient and scenic, connecting major cities like Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, Oulu.
  • Buses: A cost-effective option for reaching smaller towns and villages.
  • Ferries: Explore the archipelago and islands, with connections to Stockholm, Sweden.

Currency: Euro (€)

Things to Know:

  • Finnish is the official language but English is widely spoken.
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
  • Embrace the “sisu” spirit - Finnish resilience and determination.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Helsinki - Design & Sauna Culture

  • Arrive in Helsinki, check into your accommodation.
  • Explore Design District: Visit unique boutiques, museums like Design Museum, and enjoy a coffee break at a trendy cafe.
  • Experience authentic Finnish sauna culture at Löyly sauna complex with stunning sea views.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Market Square.

Day 2: Helsinki - History & Islands

  • Visit Suomenlinna Fortress: Take a ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore its historical fortifications and enjoy breathtaking island views.
  • Discover Finnish history at the National Museum of Finland, showcasing artifacts from prehistory to modern times.
  • Evening: Stroll along Esplanadi Park, enjoy street musicians, and have dinner at a traditional Finnish restaurant.

Day 3: Turku - Medieval Charm & Archipelago Cruise

  • Take a train to Turku, the former capital of Finland.
  • Explore the historic Turku Castle, wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, and visit Turku Cathedral.
  • Embark on an archipelago cruise exploring picturesque islands, enjoying fresh seafood lunch on board.

Day 4: Tampere - Industrial Heritage & Nature Escapes

  • Travel to Tampere by train, known for its industrial history and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Visit the Tampere Museum, learn about the city’s past, and explore the Vapriikki museum centre.
  • Hike in Näsi Hill Park, enjoying panoramic views of the lakes and cityscape.
  • Evening: Experience live music at one of Tampere’s many bars or clubs.

Day 5: Lapland - Northern Lights & Arctic Adventure

  • Fly to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus.
  • Visit the Arktikum Museum, learning about Arctic culture, history, and environment.
  • Join a Northern Lights tour (seasonal), chasing the magical aurora borealis in the night sky.

Day 6: Rovaniemi - Husky Sledding & Reindeer Encounters

  • Experience an exhilarating husky sledding adventure through snowy forests.
  • Meet reindeer at a local farm, learn about their life and culture, and enjoy a traditional Lappish lunch.
  • Evening: Relax in a cozy cabin or hotel, soaking in the peaceful arctic atmosphere.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy breakfast with views of the snowy landscapes.
  • Fly from Rovaniemi back to Helsinki for your onward journey.

Optional Activities:

  • Finnish Lakeland: Explore stunning lakes and forests by kayak or canoe.
  • Sauna hopping: Experience different types of saunas, like smoke saunas or wood-fired saunas.
  • Visit Karelia: Discover the unique culture and history of this eastern region, known for its wooden churches and beautiful landscapes.

Enjoy your Finnish adventure!