Travel in Finland

Traveling in Finland: A Complete Guide to What to See, When to Go, Road Rules, and Local Cuisine

Finland is a unique destination captivating with its pristine landscapes, rich culture, and spectacular winter experiences. From the modern cities of the southern coast to the forests and lakes of the north, this country offers adventures for every type of traveler. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip: what to see, when to go, road rules, general information, and what to eat.

Road Rules and Driving in Finland

Driving in Finland is safe and enjoyable, but there are a few rules to know:

Drive on the right, as in the rest of the European community.
Speed limits:
- Urban centres: 50 km/h
- Extra-urban roads: 80 km/h
- Highways: 120 km/h
Headlights on during the day: Mandatory all year round.
Winter tires: Mandatory from November to April in the areas Arctic.
Watch out for wildlife: Reindeer and moose may cross roads, especially at dusk.
Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving: Finland enforces strict alcohol limits.

Practical Tips

Clothing: Dress in layers, especially in winter. A hat, gloves, and waterproof shoes are essential.
Transportation: Trains and buses are reliable. Renting a car is recommended for exploring rural areas.
Language: Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken.
Currency: Euro (€).

What to see in Finland

Main cities and cultural destinations

Helsinki: The capital is a perfect mix of modern and historic architecture. Don’t miss the Helsinki Cathedral, the Port Market, and the Design District. Nearby islands, such as Suomenlinna, offer insight into Finnish military history.
Rovaniemi: Located in Finnish Lapland, it is famous as the hometown of Santa Claus. It is the ideal place for Arctic experiences, such as reindeer safaris, dog sledding, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Turku: One of Finland’s oldest cities, with its medieval castle and vibrant old town.
Savonlinna: Known for Olavinlinna Castle, it is nestled among the lakes of central Finland and offers summer concerts and cultural performances.

Nature and national parks

Koli National Park: Offers breathtaking views and hiking trails perfect for nature lovers.
Urho Kekkonen National Park: Ideal for hiking and winter sports, here you can observe reindeer and enjoy the tranquility of the Arctic landscapes.
Petkeljärvi National Park: Perfect for those who love hiking, serene lakes, and wilderness.

Unique Experiences

Northern Lights: Visible mainly in Lapland between September and March.
Midnight Sun: During the summer, in the north of the country, the sun doesn’t set for weeks.

When to go to Finland

Each season has its own charm and activities:

Winter (December-March): Ideal for winter sports, dog sledding, and Northern Lights viewing.
Spring (April-May): Nature awakens, perfect for hiking and berry picking.
Summer (June-August): The famous white nights allow you to enjoy long days, lake excursions, and outdoor activities. Outdoors.
Autumn (September-November): Warmly colored landscapes and the opportunity to pick mushrooms and berries.

Practical tip: If you want to combine the Northern Lights and outdoor activities, the best months are November to March.

Finnish Cuisine: What to Eat

Finnish cuisine is simple yet tasty, based on fresh, local ingredients:

Fish Dishes: Smoked salmon, trout, herring.
Typical meats: Elk, reindeer, pork.
Local specialties:
- Karjalanpiirakka: Rice and rye pastries.
- Kalakukko: Bread filled with fish and pork.
- Mustamakkara: Black pudding served with blueberry jam.
Sweets and snacks: Blueberries, cloudberries, and wild berries are widely used.

Local curiosities and customs

The sauna is a fundamental part of Finnish life. Prepare to experience a public or private sauna, often followed by a dip in ice-cold water.
Finns have a strong respect for nature and privacy.
Finland is among the safest countries in the world, but it’s always advisable to respect local rules and nature.

Finland is a country that surprises in every season: modern cities, pristine nature, unique experiences, and authentic cuisine make every trip memorable.