Tourist Attractions & Monuments Finland

To find out about outdoor activities, find accommodation (large choice of chalets), understand how transportation works on the islands and ask for useful addresses or all kinds of advice. The tourist office provides all the information and maps you need for walking, ice climbing or canoeing. The tourist office also organises guided tours. It also provides information about the different museums in the city, or other cultural activities. Brochures can be downloaded from the Internet.

A rather intriguing museum located on the second floor (and a half) of a well-built building (with beautiful stained glass windows in the hall). Organized into different sections, it focuses as much on Lenin's history as on that of the USSR in general, with a particular emphasis on its links with Finland. There are numerous historical documents, a small store and original period archives. A special mention for the checkroom, which is well worth a visit. A pleasant visit, if not compulsory!

As the owner of one of the largest husky farms in the world (nearly 450 dogs), the centre offers a variety of activities all year round. In the summer, the guides introduce you to the animals and their work as sled dogs, and in the winter, we get into the action with safaris. Also reindeer sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, igloo overnight stays and multi-day hikes. In summer, it's canoeing, rafting, fishing and hiking. Our favorite safari in the region with a warm welcome and good guides, do not hesitate to go there!

Created more than 2,000 million years ago, the amethyst mine was formed in the bowels of ancient mountains. The only amethyst mine in Europe, you can admire this stone and discover how it is extracted. During the visit, in addition to enjoying a superb view from the top of the hill, you can even dig yourself to bring back your own stone, which has become a good luck charm. The visit is fascinating and you learn a lot! Afterwards, you can have a snack or a drink at the Lampivaara café.

This complex allows visitors to take their brands to discover the region and especially the Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park. An auditorium presents a little film of about minutes on Lapland and its landscapes, a temporary exhibition returns to the customs and habits of the inhabitants of the region, finally an information point allows to find brochures, maps, information about possible activities. Also a nice boutique and coffee.

The oldest part dates back to the 11th century, but the cathedral was destroyed several times by the Great Wars and was renovated in the 18th century. Under the ground of the cathedral and in its courtyard many inhabitants were buried until 1789. The church of Porvoo became a cathedral in 1723. If from the outside it doesn't look like much, the interior is sober and really beautiful. Note the presence of a tall ship suspended towards the nave, on the right. It is said to have been offered by the fishermen, to pray for them.

With its 110 km², it is one of the country's largest hiking sites located in the Suomussalmi region near the Russian border, northeast of Kajaani. For lovers of fishing and hiking: marked trails, rock paintings, mills... You can also rent canoes and kayaks, bicycles, fishing equipment... You can even dive in the clear waters up to 40 m deep. Go to the visitors' centre to get all the necessary information (maps, rentals, activities, events...)

She is a sculptor, Eila Hiltunen, who pays tribute to the famous composer Sibelius by a fairly original contemporary work. Indeed it sticks hundreds of tubes to each other. Located in the Sibelius park, north of the city centre, the work (Passio Speculum) has been established as one of Helsinki's masterpieces. " The steel forest, "as the Helsinkiens called it, caused much controversy. Made up of 580 tubes of steel, of uneven length, in the image of some imaginary, conifères organ reminiscent of the importance of nature in the composer's work. The monument does not usually leave anyone indifferent. The head of Sibelius, close to a rock, seems almost unusual in this context… Eila Hiltunen delivered a similar work at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

In this beautiful park of Salla Poropuisto, there are about thirty reindeer that can be approached quite easily. For more complicity, you can make a circuit pulled by a reindeer. It is also possible to make a dogsled ride and even in summer by canoe. A beautiful place to visit in all seasons, to experience Finland the way you like it! There are activities for everyone at affordable prices.

This monument is dedicated to the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (1865-1967). This work, created by the Finnish sculptor Eila Hiltunen and entitled Passio Musicae, quickly established itself as one of Helsinki's masterpieces. "The Steel Forest", caused much controversy when it was inaugurated in 1967. Made of more than 600 stainless steel tubes of unequal length, like an imaginary organ. Next to it is a portrait of Sibelius. You can walk under the work to hear the echoes of the wind or you can have fun generating them yourself

Completed in 1931, against a backdrop of national romanticism, the Eduskuntatalo perfectly embodies the Finnish Parliament, with its Greek temple appearance. The guided tour (on reservation only, sometimes in English or French - enquire by email or phone) provides a better understanding of the country's legislative system. Possibility to attend all plenary sessions in the gallery of the session room (doors are open 15 minutes before the session).

No office in France but you can send brochures by going to the website.

Since 2014, we have been enjoying a breathtaking view of the city and its archipelago from this 40-metre-high attraction with its 30 cabins, in order to compete with the famous Viennese Prater Ferris wheel... And if you've read our special report on the sauna, you know that one of these cabins closes one! The must: the VIP cabin which can accommodate 4 people with a glass floor and leather seats. Reduced price for Helsinki Card holders.

The museum strives to push back the traditional boundaries of art museums by continuously following the development of the visual arts: originality and novelty are the watchwords of its exhibitions. The museum presents post-1960 contemporary collections in a superb building completed in 1998 to designs by Steven Holl: paintings, media works, spatial works and photographs. On several floors, white predominates, with an exceptional emphasis on natural light and remarkable work on volumes. Every year, the museum acquires around a hundred new works by Finnish and foreign artists. Room X showcases the most recent works, while the Printti section gives pride of place to the graphic arts. The first floor features a pleasant café-restaurant with wi-fi. Kiasma also has an auditorium where events are regularly presented in connection with all contemporary forms of performing arts (dance, theater, music), often in collaboration with festivals. The exhibition schedule is available on their website, as are theater and performance programs. Don't miss the official website to find out what's on, which is always surprising, exciting and attractive. Finland's most visited museum! Free with Helsinki Card and every first Friday of the month.

Built of granite in the early ^20th century (1909-1919), this superb station is the work of architect Eliel Saarinen and marks a turning point in Finnish architecture. The national Romantic style was gradually replaced by cleaner lines. The station building blends Art Nouveau and functionalism. Its austere facade, the flagship of Art Nouveau, is softened by the subtlety of the copings and the integration of figurative elements. Four massive, solemn busts of men, carrying luminous globes, frame the main entrance - signed by Finnish sculptor Emil Wikström. The pair even have a name: Lyhdynkantajat, which roughly translates as "the lantern bearers" (Emil Wikström also created the bear sculpture in front of the National Museum). The 48 m tower with its verdigris roof features a 3 m-diameter clock. It is considered the most important work of national Romanticism. Inside the station, the Pullman fresco on the second floor is by Eero Järnefelt, one of Finland's great artists. The station provides access to the largest metro station and an underground shopping passage. The station is often cited as one of the most beautiful in Europe and the world. The station has often been featured in advertisements for Finland's railways. In 2013, the statues were restored and the globe lights replaced with LEDs.

Located in Porvoo's old town hall, which dates back to 1764, you can see the works of Albert Edelfelt and the sculptures of Ville Vallgren, who also sculpted Havis Amanda on Helsinki's Market Square. There is also an exhibition on the Diet of Porvoo in 1809, which marked the beginning of Finnish autonomy and on the nobility of the city. There are also more than 220,000 archaeological and art objects on display, as well as archives including maps...

Completed in 1752, the church is located in the heart of the forest. You can reach it through a 5 km trail. it's a magical place, where some couples get married.

The elves have finally authorized the disclosure of the location of this unique place in the heart of the forest where everyone can discover the true story of Christmas. True tradition lovers will be happy to discover this address lost in the middle of nature, where many superb activities await them. But this dream comes at a (very expensive) price, because there's no question of coming by car and spoiling the fairy-tale atmosphere. We will pick you up in town or you will have to take a shuttle.

Tampere, Finland, is the country's most attractive city, according to the Finns! Its secret is its originality and ability to surprise again and again: there's always something new going on! A practical and reasonably-sized city, it's situated between two lakes and offers a wide variety of activities in both the natural and urban environment, and is even perfect for walking! As the sauna capital of the world, you absolutely must try one of the 60 public saunas in the region during your visit.

Experience 365 has been designed to offer you a multitude of activities adapted to the climatic conditions and geographical location of "Sea Lapland". In winter, break the ice aboard the Icebreaker Sampo; in summer, enjoy the beach and activities available once the ice has melted. And don't forget SnowCastle, a village of villas with sea views, restaurants and an indoor ice sculpture park open in winter.

Kopara Reindeer Park organizes beautiful, authentic experiences with reindeer and professionals. By choosing the offer that suits you best, you'll have the chance to walk with reindeer, be pulled, feed them, and learn about their lives, all in the company of an experienced guide. Experiences last between 30 minutes and an hour. If the park offers other activities outside winter, these reindeer experiences usually take place from November-December to mid-April. On-site restaurant and store.

Europe's largest aquatic park. In the winter, only the indoor swimming pool is open. The small hill outdoors allows you to enjoy the joys of alpine skiing. Cross-country skiing is also available. In summer, indoor and outdoor swimming pools are open.

Located in Järvenpää north of Helsinki, Ainola is the home of Jean Sibelius, the famous Finnish composer who settled there with his family at the beginning of the century and remained there until his death in 1957. He has composed over 150 works. Become a pilgrimage place for many music lovers. Very special atmosphere.

The Finnish science centre Heureka, located in Vantaa, was inaugurated in 1988. Heureka with its planetarium, multivisions and hemispheric films (from the style of the Géode to La Villette) is divided into four sections devoted to the universe, life, human society and production, respectively. Very playful.

35 min boat trip to Svartholma sea fortress. This fortress was built in 1748 by the Swedes to protect themselves against the Russian invasion. Suomenlinna's big sister, so to speak. Destroyed by the British during the Crimean War, it has since been rebuilt. On the small island, you will find a small museum (free entrance) to understand the history of this fort which was built between Russian and Swedish laws. Also on the spot, there is a small bistro to have a drink or a bite to eat.

This ethnological museum gives back the period of time with numerous farms from different parts of Finland and lifts here with their greniers and fenils. The peasant interiors have preserved their appearance in the past.

Lake Inari is the third largest lake in Finland (1,043 km²) and the second deepest (92 m). It is studded with a myriad of islands (over 3,000). In good weather, the boat takes you to the sacred island of the Sami: Ukonsaari (a sanctuary for nearly a thousand years). In case of bad weather, you simply sail around the island. Remains of sacrificed reindeer antlers evoke the divinatory and votive rites practiced by these ancient nomadic peoples. A short 20-minute stop allows you to climb to the top.

Aavasaksa Hill has several points of interest. The most important is the Emperor's House (Imperial Lodge). Built in 1882 as a hunting cabin for Tsar Alexander II, this chalet, a little unusual in its decoration and function, has been restored and now serves as a museum. The second site to be seen on this hill is the Observation Tower, built in 1969, in red bricks. You can also take a walk through the open-air theatre and the Aavasaksan Paviljonki restaurant, a renovated 1927 pavilion with a pretty terrace. Several trails criss-cross the hill.

Nearly 3,000 precious and semi-precious stones are kept in this interesting gallery, which does not look like much. Upstairs, there is also a mini-exhibition on the jewels adorning the most famous European crowns, including the real crown of the King of Finland. For each jewel, there is an explanation with a bit of history. Also reproduction of the jewels of the crown of Elizabeth II and the necklace of Marie-Antoinette.

This Lutheran cathedral was originally built in 1777 as a tribute to King Gustav III of Sweden. Originally made of wood, it was partly destroyed during the fire of 23 May 1822 that ravaged the city. Rebuilt after the fire, its pale yellow exterior and the 17th century portraits it contains make it a jewel of northern Finland's sacred art. The church was made an official cathedral in 1900, when the bishopric was transferred from Kuopio to Oulu. It is the ecclesiastical centre of Northern Finland.

Completed in 1797, this neoclassical church is one of the measuring points of the Struve geodesic arch, which is part of the Unesco World Heritage. The point on the tower of the church was measured in 1842. It was marked in the clock tower and can still be seen on the walls. There was probably a wooden church in its place already in 1208. Surrounded by a quiet area by the water, you can spend a day here with a visit of the church.

Inaugurated in 2005, Turku's magnificent ecumenical chapel is located in the Hirvensaloet district and was designed by Matti Sanaksenaho. The altarpiece, doors and pews are the work of Kain Tapper while the stained glass windows were painted by Hannu Konola. Initially built for patients of the nearby hospital, it eventually became ecumenical. Thus, Lutherans, Catholics, Orthodox, Adventists, Baptists, Methodists, Pentecostals, the Free Church and the Salvation Army can use it. Art exhibitions, concerts and other events.

The office is not open to the public, but the website is extremely comprehensive and is essential for any preparation of a trip to Finland. It contains information, photographs, files about Finland and its many facets. It is also rich in information on events in the capital and on excursions to the Helsikian agglomeration or, further afield, to Lapland. It is available in French.

Previously located in the main railway station, a new tourist office opened in October 2022. It provides information on the city's activities, events, restaurants and bars. Free maps of Helsinki are also available. The friendly staff will be happy to guide you if you need help or have any questions. Another tourist office, near the Old Market Hall, is open from late May to mid-September; the one at the airport is closed for good...

In the heart of Vaasa, the Tikanoja Museum is an art museum with many surprises in store for you. Paintings by Gauguin, Daumier, Degas, Picasso but also by famous Finnish painters... These are some of the superb pieces in the collection of businessman Frithjof Tikanoja. This art collector has collected no less than 1,000 pieces by Finnish and international artists. They are now on display in the museum named after the famous Vaasa business man. In addition, the museum organises many events and activities.

Opened in 2007, this beautiful two-storey design museum of modern art is well worth a visit. Well located in the town of Vaasa, it is only a few steps away from the market square and the seafront. The museum is named after art collector Simo Kuntsi (1913-1984) and the art collection he created - and which can be seen here - is considered one of the most important collections of modern and contemporary art in the country. The temporary exhibitions are always very interesting.

Guides who speak all languages are available through this association if you wish to take a walking tour. Ask at the tourist office, and they'll organize a tour with one of the English-speaking guides. We recommend Anu Salminen, who speaks perfect French, knows Turku by heart and, as her husband is a pastor, will teach you a lot about the religious history of the city (and of Finland in general).

In a bourgeois house built in 1700, a pharmacy preserved in its original state was set up in part of the building in the 19th century with two period laboratories. It is the oldest pharmacy in Finland and well worth a visit. At the same place, there is also the Qwensel House Museum. In it you can follow the history of the family of Joseph Pipping, a professor of medicine who lived in the building in the 18th century.

The archipelago offers pleasant walks, you can practice some activities such as paddle or windsurfing. You can also opt for a day by boat to discover the islands of the Espoo archipelago. Departure from Otaranta to Otaniemi, from Kivenlahti or Suomenoja, for a trip from island to island around Espoo including Iso Vasikkasaari, Stora Herrö, Rövaren and Gåsgrundet. The choice is yours: classic boat, catamaran or speed boat for thrill-seekers. Summer and winter activities are available. A very pleasant nature excursion.

For design enthusiasts, it's a must! Cradle of the national company known throughout the world for its famous orange scissors, Fiskars is the village that saw the creation of this small workers' bastion. The museum traces the history of the factory and its inhabitants from the 17th century to the present day. Fiskars is a foundry company founded in 1649. In 1832, they launched the country's first cutlery factory and in 1967, they made themselves known worldwide with their famous orange chisel. On site: museum, café and souvenir shop.

The medieval cathedral (a rare sight in Finland that deserves to be highlighted!) of Saint-Matthieu dates from the end of the 15th century. Note the admirably preserved ancient mural paintings, representing the history of mankind but also scenes from everyday life. Next door, a pleasant walk in the park-cemetery. As a matter of fact, the church was granted the status of a cathedral in 2004, when the diocese of Espoo was separated from the diocese of Helsinki.

Sandy beaches, a seaside restaurant that serves smoked fish, family and relaxed atmosphere. Petit Deauville swimming huts with its colourful changed. Ideal for swimming in summer, opposite the large ferries to the neighbouring countries. You can also walk along the cliff and collect bays or mushrooms in the forests of the island.

In Helsinki's former working-class district, at the top of the hill (or rock, hence the name kallio), the church designed by Lars Sonck between 1908 and 1912 gives a good insight into the romantic national school and the influence of Art Nouveau in the city's architecture. Lars Sonck (1870-1956) is an architect who designed among others the Ainola residence of Jean Sibelius, the cathedral of Tampere, the Mikael Agricole church (not far from the district in Punavuori)...

With its twin 74-metre-high spires, this neo-Gothic Lutheran church, built between 1888 and 1893, is the largest in the city. Renowned for its acoustics, it hosts a number of concerts. The Divine Revelation was painted by Eero Järnefelt, brother-in-law of Jean Sibelius. The church takes its name in part from the hill on which it was built, a place that has traditionally been the site of Midsummer fires for centuries.

This fun-filled family museum tells the story of the passionate relationship between Helsinki and its tramway, from its origins to the present day. An original way to learn about the city's development and its unique character. Relatively small, it's well suited to younger visitors, with its many interactive panels. You can play streetcar driver and imagine yourself traveling on these big machines every day. Free of charge, it's the perfect way to spend a little time.

A breathtaking (and free) view of the city from this magnificent fourteen-storey tower, built in 1928 to designs by the architectural brothers Bertel and Valter Jung (Jung & Jung - who also designed Helsinki's Kulosaari church). Don't hesitate to explore the hotel's interior, and if you're feeling a little thirsty, take a seat on the terrace of the Ateljee Bar to enjoy the view through the bay windows for a while longer. And don't forget to visit the ladies' toilets for the best view of the capital!

Beard to Daddy and good-natured atmosphere in this old-fashioned amusement park. Each year, the park is enriched with an additional attraction. Don't miss one of the first roller coaster of all time (all made of wood) and the free ride in the observatory tower. A dozen small rides and attractions, designed for the youngest, are free of charge. Ideal for families and for children, their eyes shining in front of this small magical world. Good to know: the park belongs to a children's foundation! In 1950, the park was founded by six associations which joined forces seven years later to create the Children's Day Foundation. All profits from the park are now donated to the foundation. Among the six associations are the following:

Barnavårdsföreningen i Finland: aims to protect disadvantaged children and their families.

The Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters: which aims, among other things, to prevent domestic violence.

The Central Union for Child Welfare : whose most important tasks are to promote the interests of children and to pool expertise in child protection.

The Mannerheim League for Child Wel fare: to protect children, young people and young families

Parasta Lapsille : a national organization that organizes camps, activities, clubs...

Save the Children: which helps children with family difficulties

An underground amusement park with Santa Claus as its main theme. Here, you'll meet elves, reindeer and all the logistics that go to make up the Christmas miracle! Fun with children, the atmosphere is cheerful and exotic, and despite the high prices and permanent crowds, it's an extra dimension to the Santa Claus Secret Forest that's worth appreciating. Reservations recommended. Tickets valid for all attractions on two consecutive days. Be warned: the area is very, very, very touristy!