Approx. 3 hours

Finland offers distinct experiences depending on the time of year you visit. In the summer months, typically from June to August, Finland basks under the Midnight Sun, especially in the northern regions. This unique phenomenon provides almost 24 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to indulge in extended outdoor activities. Winter, on the other hand, transforms Finland, particularly Lapland, into a snowy wonderland from December to March. This season is perfect for witnessing the magical Northern Lights, best viewed in the dark, clear skies of Lapland.

For a true winter experience, spending three nights in Lapland can be sufficient, but a longer stay is recommended for avid skiers or those wanting a deeper immersion into the Arctic lifestyle. For a quick taste of summer in Finland—maybe Helsinki, some nature, and the midnight sun—a week is enough. But if you want to explore Lapland, the Lakeland region, or go on longer hikes, two to three weeks is ideal. A rough breakdown based on trip length: 3–5 days: Helsinki + a nearby trip 7–10 days: Helsinki + Lapland or a road trip through the Lakeland region. 2+ weeks: Full Finnish experience (Helsinki, Lapland, the Lakeland region, the archipelago, and even a visit to Karelia).

Finnish, Swedish, Russian, Estonian, English

Not required

Graavilohi - a Nordic dish made from raw salmon which has been cured in salt, sugar and dill. Leipajuusto - a fresh cheese traditionally made from cow's beestings - rich milk from a cow that has recently calved. It's often served alongside coffee or with cloudberry jam. Rye bread - Finland's version is genuine 100% rye bread made from unique Finnish yeasts to give it a dark, dense character. This bread is one of Finland's staple foods and a part of Finns' cultural identity for thousands of years. Leavened rye breads are often dried into thin crisp for open-faced sandwiches or to be snacked on with butter. Lihäpyörykoita (Finnish meatballs) - They can be made from ground beef or reindeer meat. Traditionally, they are served with gravy sauce, mashed potatoes, and lingonberry jam. Hernekeitto (Pea soup) – often also contains ham inside. It is served with mustard which gives uniqueness. Then, it is usually followed by a pancake with berry-type jam. Paistetut muikut - a small-sized fish, covered with flour then fried. Mustikkapiirakka – blueberry pie filled with yogurt and served with fresh milk is a much adored Finnish dessert. Korvapuusti (cinnamon buns) – sweet bread with lots of ground cardamon. Salmiakki (Salty liquorice) Vappusima (Sima) - a traditional Finnish drink made from water, sugar, lemons, and yeast, it is lightly fermented, mildly sweet, and slightly sparkling. Glögi - Wonderfully comforting and cozy warm drink for Christmas time Made from red wine and/or fruit juices with vodka (or without for non-alcoholic option), it's spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, and often sweetened with sugar. It’s served hot, usually with raisins and almonds added for extra flavour. Blackcurrant / Red currant / Blueberry juice Piimä - a traditional Finnish fermented dairy drink, similar to kefir and buttermilk. It has a tangy, slightly sour taste and a thick, creamy texture Water - When visiting Finland, don't forget to enjoy the purest tap water in the world!

Hyvää päivää -Good day Kiitos Thank you/Please Kippis! - Cheers! (used when raising a toast) Hauska tutustua! - Nice to meet you! Miten sanotaan … suomeksi? (“How do you say … in Finnish?