Are you planning a family vacation to Finland? You’re in for a treat! Finland has endless natural beauty, with forests, lakes, and islands perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation. In this Finland travel guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan the perfect family trip to Finland. From the best places to visit and activities to do in Finland, to tips on where to stay and what to eat, you’ll have a clearer idea for your Finland travel with kids. So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and start planning your Finland travel with kids!
Why Go to Finland With Kids?
Finland is a great destination for families because it offers various activities and attractions that appeal to children of all ages. Here are a few reasons why you should consider Finland for your next family vacation:
- If your family loves nature: Finland is known for its natural beauty, and many national parks and nature reserves offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and canoeing. The country also offers a range of outdoor activities that are fun for the whole family, such as hiking, camping, and swimming in the lakes. If you are a nature-loving family, Finland is the perfect destination.
- If your kids are into winter sports: Lapland, the northern part of Finland, becomes a winter wonderland for practically half of the year. If your family enjoys winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, you will love Finland for its top-notch ski resorts. And even if you’re not into winter sports, there is a range of winter activities that your family will love, such as husky sledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer sleigh rides.
- If you love Christmas: Located in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa, Santa Claus Village is perfect if you have small children. But even your teens and the adults in your family will be taken by the Christmas spirit. You can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, send letters from Santa’s post office, and have a magical holiday experience. Plus, Finland has Christmas markets that you will love.
- If you want something educational: If your kids like science, or you want to incorporate something educational in your family vacation, Finland has science centers like the Heureka Science Center in Vantaa and Science Centre Pilke in Rovaniemi. They are great for kids as they offer hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that keep them entertained while learning.
- If you like to go to museums: Is your family into museums? Finland has many of them, catering not just to grown-ups but to kids. There’s the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, Finnish Natural History Museum, Sederholm House – Children’s Town, Music Museum Fame, and National Museum of Finland, among others. Most have programs designed for children and offer fun and educational activities.
- If you want your family to be safe: Finland is a very safe country for kids and adults, with low crime rates and a clean environment, which makes it a perfect destination for families with kids.
- If you’re curious about Finnish culture: Finland is known for its unique culture and lifestyle, including their love for the sauna, reindeer meat, coffee, having a summer cottage, Moomins, and weird sports (like wife-carrying). A visit to Finland offers a chance to learn more about Finnish culture and traditions while experiencing the country’s renowned hospitality.
Where to Go in Finland With Kids
Finland is a large country with plenty of interesting destinations to choose from, but here are a few of our top recommendations for families:
- Helsinki: As Finland’s capital and largest city, Helsinki is a great place to start your trip. The city has a rich cultural history and is home to numerous museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions. Some highlights for families include the Helsinki Zoo, the Helsinki Art Museum, and the National Museum of Finland. You can also take day trips from Helsinki, such as Porvoo.
- Lapland: If you’re looking for a true taste of Finnish wilderness, a trip to Lapland is a must. Located in the far north of the country, Lapland is home to the famous Santa Claus Village, where you can visit Santa’s workshop and go on a reindeer safari. Lapland is also a great place to see the Northern Lights, which are visible from September to March. We went to Rovaniemi and Levi, both in Lapland. There are tons of things to do in Lapland with kids.
- Turku: Located on the southwest coast of Finland, Turku is the country’s oldest city and a great place to experience Finnish culture and history. The city is home to numerous museums and churches, a beautiful castle, and a charming old town. And it’s nearby the town of Naantali, home of Moomin World.
- Tampere: Located in southern Finland, Tampere is known as the “Manchester of Finland” due to its history as a hub of industry and innovation. Today, the city is home to several cultural attractions, including the Tampere Art Museum and the Vapriikki Museum Centre.
- The Lakeland area: a region known for its thousands of lakes and forests, perfect for hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
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What to Do in Finland With Kids
No matter where you go in Finland, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Some popular things to do in Finland in summer include hiking, fishing, and boating. And there’s skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing in winter. Finland is also home to a number of theme parks and water parks, including the popular Särkänniemi Adventure Park in Tampere and Linnanmäki amusement park in Helsinki.
Your Finland travel with kids depends on what your family wants to experience. Finland offers a wide range of activities for tourists to enjoy, including:
- Winter sports: Finland is a popular winter destination for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. Other things to do in Finland in winter include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and husky sledding.
- Outdoor activities: Finland’s nature is known for its forests, lakes, and rivers, making it perfect for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping.
- Sightseeing: Finland is home to many historical and cultural sites, such as the Fortress of Suomenlinna in Helsinki, Turku Castle, and the Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village.
- Northern Lights: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can be seen in the northern parts of Finland, particularly in Lapland.
- Saunas: Saunas are an important part of Finnish culture, and many hotels and vacation rentals have saunas that visitors can use.
- Festivals: Finland hosts many festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, art, film, and food.
- Shopping: Finland is known for its design and fashion, and there are many shops and markets where visitors can find unique and high-quality items.
- Spa and wellness: Finland is also known for its spa and wellness centers, where you can relax and rejuvenate.
- Visit the archipelago: Finland’s archipelago is a great place to explore by boat, bike, or foot.
- Gastronomy: Finnish cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and traditional dishes, such as smoked fish, reindeer meat, and cloudberry jam.
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Where to Stay in Finland With Kids
Now that you know where to go and what to do, let’s talk about where to stay. Finland has various accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to cozy cabins. For your Finland travel with kids, it’s a good idea to look for accommodation with family-friendly amenities, such as children’s pools, playgrounds, and kid-friendly menus. Some popular hotel chains in Finland that cater to families include Sokos Hotels and Scandic Hotels.
If you prefer a more rustic experience, you might consider renting a cabin or holiday home. Many cabins and holiday homes in Finland come equipped with kitchens, allowing you to prepare meals for your family and save on dining costs. There are also many campsites throughout the country, which are a great option for families who want to spend their days exploring the great outdoors.
Finland offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, including:
- Hotels: Many hotels in Finland’s cities and towns range from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
- Vacation rentals: Visitors can also choose to stay in a vacation rental, such as a cabin or a cottage, which can be found in many popular tourist destinations.
- Campsites: Finland is a great destination for camping, and there are many campsites throughout the country, many of which offer basic facilities such as showers and kitchens.
- Hostels: Hostels are a budget-friendly option and can be found in cities and towns throughout Finland.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a great option for travelers who prefer a more personal and intimate experience.
- Glass igloos: You can stay in a glass igloo, a unique accommodation option that allows you to see the Northern Lights.
- Ice hotels: You can sleep in a room carved from ice. What can be more unique than that?
- Safari houses or cottages: For a unique experience, visitors can stay in a safari house or cottage located in the wilderness, offering a chance to experience nature up close.
It’s important to note that the availability of different types of accommodation can vary depending on the location and the time of year, so it’s best to research and book in advance.
What to Eat in Finland With Kids
Finally, let’s talk about food. Finnish cuisine is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes, many of which are made with locally-sourced ingredients. Some traditional Finnish dishes that your family might enjoy include:
- Karelian pasties: These savory pastries are filled with rice and traditionally served with a side of butter. Your kids will like this.
- Lohikeitto: This creamy salmon soup is a popular winter dish in Finland.
- Reindeer: Reindeer meat is a staple of Finnish cuisine and can be found in dishes like reindeer stew, reindeer burgers, or reindeer meatballs.
- Smoked fish: Freshwater fish, such as salmon, trout, and whitefish, are popular in Finnish cuisine. They can be served smoked, grilled, or in a traditional fish soup.
- Pulla: This sweet bread is often served with coffee and is a popular treat in Finland.
- Berries: Finland is known for its wild berries, such as lingonberries, blueberries, and cloudberries, which are often used to make jams, pies, and other desserts.
- Rye bread: Rye bread is a staple in Finnish cuisine, which is often served with butter and cheese or used to make traditional dishes such as open-faced sandwiches.
Finns also like dairy products, such as fresh milk, cheese, and butter. Your kids will enjoy desserts, including pancakes, pastries, chocolate, and ice cream.
In addition to traditional Finnish dishes, you’ll also find a wide range of international cuisines in Finland, particularly in the larger cities. Many restaurants in Finland offer children’s menus or smaller portions, making it easy to find something that will appeal to your kids. There are also international fast-food chains such as Burger King and McDonald’s and homegrown chains like Hesburger and Kotipizza. So, in your Finland travel with kids, you won’t have a problem looking for where to eat, even with the most picky children.
What to Wear in Finland
The type of clothing to wear in Finland will depend on the time of year and the activities you plan to do. Here are some general guidelines to help you plan your wardrobe:
- Winter: During the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so it’s important to dress in layers and warm clothing. This includes a base layer of thermal underwear, a middle layer of fleece or wool, and an outer layer of waterproof and windproof clothing. Also bring a warm hat, gloves, a scarf, and a pair of insulated boots.
- Spring and Fall: During the spring and fall, temperatures can be mild, but it’s still important to dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Bring a light jacket or sweater, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Summer: During the summer, temperatures can be mild to warm, but be prepared for the occasional rain.
- Outdoor activities: If you plan to participate in outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, or skiing, wear appropriate clothing and footwear. For example, bring a good pair of hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent if you plan to go hiking.
- Special activities: If you’re planning to participate in special activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, or reindeer sledding, check with the tour providers what kind of clothing they recommend you to wear and if they provide any. The proper winter boots are essential. Some of them also rent winter gear.
What to Wear in Lapland in Winter
During the winter, temperatures in Lapland can drop well below freezing, so it’s important to dress warmly and in layers to stay comfortable and safe. Here are some guidelines for what to wear in Lapland in the winter:
- Base layer: Start with a base layer of thermal underwear made of moisture-wicking material to keep you dry and warm.
- Middle layer: Add a middle layer of fleece or wool to provide insulation and warmth.
- Outer layer: Wear a waterproof and windproof outer layer, such as a ski jacket or parka to protect you from the cold and snow.
- Head and hands: A warm hat, a scarf, and gloves or mittens are essential to keep your head, neck, and hands warm.
- Feet: A pair of insulated boots or winter shoes with a good grip is necessary to keep your feet warm and protected from the snow and slush.
- Accessories: Goggles or sunglasses and a neck warmer will protect your eyes and face from the glare of the sun and cold wind.
Keep in mind that it’s always better to dress in layers so that you can remove or add layers as needed. Pack extra clothes, including a set of dry clothes, in case of an emergency, and don’t forget to bring extra socks.
It’s also important to remember to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, and to be prepared for all types of weather, as the weather in Lapland can change quickly.
When to Go to Finland
First, let’s talk about the best time to visit Finland. The country experiences distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. While the winter months offer plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, the summer months are generally considered the best time to visit Finland with kids. June through August offer long days with plenty of sunlight, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
On the other hand, Finland is often associated with Lapland in winter. So it’s equally a great, if not better, time for your Finland travel with kids.
Of course, the best time to visit Finland depends on the activities and experiences you are looking for. Here are a few things to consider:
- Summer: Finland’s summers are relatively short, from June to August, and the weather is warm and pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming. You can visit in August when it’s not as crowded and expensive as the peak summer months of June and July.
- Winter: Finland’s winters are long, from December to April, and the weather can be quite cold and snowy, making it a great time for winter sports and other winter activities. January and February are the coldest, and they are the peak months for ski resorts. November and early December are cold and dark but not as crowded.
- Northern Lights: If you want to see the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is between September and April, when the nights are long and dark.
- Midnight Sun: If you want to experience the Midnight Sun, the best time to visit is between May and August, when the nights are short, and the sun doesn’t set.
- Festivals: If you want to attend a festival, research when they take place and plan your trip accordingly. They are usually held in summer, spring, and autumn when Finns do more outdoor events.
- Crowds: during the peak tourist season, which is during the summer months and Christmas, the most popular tourist destinations can get crowded, and prices tend to be higher.
- Budget: If you’re on a budget, the low season is generally considered to be between October and April, when prices tend to be lower.
How Long to Stay in Finland
The length of your stay in Finland will depend on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Here are a few things to consider:
- Sightseeing: If you’re planning to visit several cities and attractions, you’ll likely need more time to see everything. A week or more is recommended.
- Outdoor activities: If you want to spend your time hiking, fishing, canoeing, or camping, you’ll likely need more time to explore Finland’s beautiful nature parks, lakes, and coasts.
- Winter sports: If you’re going to Lapland to go skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country skiing, you’ll likely need at least a week to enjoy the slopes and have time for other activities.
- Northern Lights: If you want to see the Northern Lights, you’ll need to plan your trip during the right time of year and be prepared to spend several nights in the northern parts of Finland. They don’t always show up, so factor that in.
- Budget: If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider a shorter trip, maybe three days in Helsinki and four days in Lapland.
Ultimately, the length of your stay in Finland will depend on your interests and priorities. A week or two is a good starting point, but you can always extend or shorten your stay depending on what you want to see and do.
1-Week Finland Travel Itinerary
Here is a sample itinerary for a one-week trip to Finland:
- Day 1: Arrive in Helsinki and spend the day exploring the city. Visit the Fortress of Suomenlinna, the Temppeliaukio Church, Senate Square, and Market Square.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to the archipelago of Turku. Visit Turku Castle and take a boat tour to explore the islands. Alternatively, make a side trip to Porvoo and go back in time.
- Day 3: Take a train to Rovaniemi and spend the day exploring Santa Claus Village and the Arctic Circle.
- Day 4: Take a day trip to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park for hiking and skiing.
- Day 5: Take a bus to Lapland and spend the day dog sledding, reindeer sledding, or snowmobiling, depending on the time of the year. Levi is a great option, as it’s not too far north.
- Day 6: Take a train to Tampere and spend the day exploring the city and its industrial history.
- Day 7: Take a train back to Helsinki and spend the last day shopping, visiting museums, or relaxing before departing.
This itinerary is just a sample and can be adjusted to suit your interests and preferences. For example, instead of spending the whole week on the mainland, you could also explore the Åland islands or spend more time in Lapland if you’re interested in winter sports or the Northern Lights.
2-Week Finland Travel Itinerary
For your Finland travel with kids, this is a sample itinerary for a two-week trip to Finland:
- Day 1-2: Arrive in Helsinki and spend the first two days exploring the city. Visit the Fortress of Suomenlinna, the Temppeliaukio Church, Senate Square, and Market Square. Take a boat tour of the archipelago of Turku and visit the Turku Castle. Spend an afternoon in Porvoo Old Town.
- Day 3-4: Take a train to Rovaniemi and spend two days exploring Santa Claus Village and the Arctic Circle. Take a day trip to the Ranua Wildlife Park to see Arctic animals.
- Day 5-6: Take a bus to Lapland and spend two days exploring the area. Try activities such as dog sledding, reindeer sledding, or snowmobiling, depending on the time of the year. Spend one night in a traditional Finnish cabin or a glass igloo to enjoy the Northern Lights.
- Day 7-8: Take a train to Tampere and spend two days exploring the city and its industrial history. Visit the Tampere Art Museum and the Tampere Market Hall.
- Day 9-10: Take a train to the Lakeland area and spend two days exploring the area’s thousands of lakes and forests. Go hiking, fishing, or canoeing.
- Day 11-12: Take a train to the Åland Islands and spend two days exploring the archipelago. Visit the Kastelholm Castle, and the Åland Maritime Museum and take a boat tour around the islands.
- Day 13-14: Return to Helsinki and spend the last two days shopping, visiting museums, or relaxing before departing.
You could spend more time in Lapland if you’re visiting in winter and skip Tampere, the Lakeland, and Åland Islands.
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How to Go to Finland
There are several ways to travel to Finland, depending on your location and budget:
- Fly: The most common way to get to Finland is by flying. Finland has several international airports, including Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, Turku Airport, and Rovaniemi Airport, which offer direct flights from major cities worldwide.
- Ferry: Several ferry routes connect Finland to other countries, including Sweden, Estonia, and Germany. So, if you’re coming from these places, Finland is just a short ferry ride away.
- Train: Several train routes connect Finland to other countries, including Russia, Sweden, and Estonia.
Though not recommended, other ways to go to Finland are by bus or car. It just takes too long to be on the road. This is not a good way to spend your Finland travel with kids. For example, coming from Stockholm, Sweden, it takes about an hour to fly to Helsinki, about 17 hours by ferry, 11 hours by car ferry, 17 hours by train, and over 20 hours by car. Save your time by flying.
Travel restrictions may apply due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the situation may change over time, so check the latest travel advice and regulations before planning a trip.
It’s also important to have all the necessary documents, such as a passport or ID card, if required, and to check the visa requirements for your specific country of origin and the duration of your stay.
How to Get Around Finland
There are several ways to get around Finland, depending on your location, budget, and preferences:
- Public transportation: Finland has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams, which connect major cities and towns. Riding the iconic trams in Helsinki is a must.
- Car rental: Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the countryside or want more flexibility. However, don’t drive within a city like Helsinki. You’re better off taking the bus or tram.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Finland’s major cities, but they can be expensive. So skip them.
- Bicycles: cycling is a popular way to get around in cities and towns, and many cities have bike-sharing schemes.
- Walking and hiking: Exploring by foot is a great way to see the cities and towns. Many tourist attractions in Helsinki are within walking distance. And in the countryside, you can enjoy nature by hiking.
- Boats: In the Archipelago of Turku and Åland Islands, getting around by boat is the best way to explore the islands. You can take organized boat tours or rent your own boat.
How Much to Travel to Finland
The cost of traveling to Finland will depend on several factors, including your travel dates, itinerary, your accommodation choices, and transportation method. On average, your Finland travel cost can be broken down as follows:
- Airfare: The cost of a round-trip flight to Finland can vary depending on your departure location and the time of year, but it generally ranges from $500 to $1000 or more.
- Accommodation: The accommodation costs range from $50 to $200 per night.
- Transportation: Budget around $5 to $50 or more per day.
- Food: A basic meal in a restaurant costs around $15 to $25.
- Activities: The cost of activities ranges from $20 to $100 or more per activity.
- Entertainment and shopping: It generally ranges from $5 to $50 or more per activity.
These prices are just an estimate and will depend on your travel style and the luxury level you want. But generally speaking, Finland is not a budget travel destination. But if you time your visit well, you can get good deals.
FAQs About Finland Travel With Kids
Here are some common questions about traveling to Finland with kids:
Is Finland Good for Kids?
Finland is a great destination for families with children. There are many things to see and do that will appeal to kids of all ages, such as:
- Nature: Finland is known for its beautiful nature, and kids will enjoy exploring the forests, lakes, and rivers. Many national parks and nature reserves offer hiking, fishing, and canoeing opportunities.
- Winter sports: Finland is a great destination for winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, which can be fun for kids of all ages. Even if your kids don’t do winter sports, they can go on husky rides, join reindeer safaris, and try snowshoeing and sledging.
- Santa Claus Village: Kids will just love the experience of meeting Santa and basking in the magic of this place.
- Science centers and museums: There are a lot of interactive science centers and all sorts of museums, from natural history and design to art and music, that will appeal to kids.
- Outdoor activities: Finland is a great place for outdoor activities, such as swimming, playing and having a picnic in the park, or playing on playgrounds. Many cities and towns have playgrounds and parks perfect for kids to run around and play.
- Zoo and wildlife parks: Visiting places like the Ranua Wildlife Park or Ähtäri Zoo, where kids can see a wide variety of animals, will be an exciting experience for children
- Children’s festivals: There are several children’s festivals and events that take place throughout the year, such as the Children’s Culture Festival in Turku, which offers a variety of fun and educational activities for kids.
- Hotels’ kids clubs: Some hotels and resorts offer children’s programs and facilities, such as playgrounds, swimming pools, and children’s clubs, making them a perfect option for families with kids.
What’s the best age to take a child to Lapland?
Lapland is a great destination for families with children, and the best age to take a child to Lapland will depend on your child’s interests and abilities. Generally, your Finland travel with kids best suits toddlers and older.
For very young children, it may be best to wait until they are old enough to appreciate and enjoy the activities, such as meeting Santa Claus, reindeer sledding, and snowmobiling. Children under the age of two may not be able to participate fully in these activities and may not remember the experience.
Children between the ages of 3 and 7 will enjoy the magical experience of meeting Santa Claus, visiting Santa’s village, and seeing the reindeer and other Arctic animals. They will also enjoy many activities such as visiting the snow igloos, ice fishing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Children between the ages of 8 and 12 will enjoy the same activities as younger children but will also be able to participate in more adventurous activities such as snowshoeing, husky sledding, and cross-country skiing.
For teenagers, Lapland is a great destination for winter sports and adventure activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.
How many days in Finland is enough?
The length of your stay in Finland will depend on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Your Finland travel with kids should be at least one week but ideally two weeks.
A week is enough to get a taste of the country and see some of the main attractions. However, if you want to explore more and do more activities, such as visiting multiple cities, going to national parks, or experiencing winter sports or the Northern Lights. In that case, you may want to consider staying longer, like 2 weeks or more.
A 2-week trip will give you more time to explore the country and see what Finland offers. It will also allow you to take day trips and excursions to nearby areas, such as the archipelago of Turku, Lapland, or the Åland islands, which are popular tourist destinations.
Ultimately, the length of your stay in Finland will depend on your interests and priorities. A week or two is a good starting point, but you can always extend or shorten your stay depending on what you want to see and do.
Is Finland cheap for vacation?
Finland is generally considered a relatively expensive vacation destination, compared to other European countries. However, the cost of traveling to Finland can vary widely depending on your travel dates, itinerary, accommodation choices, and transportation method.
It’s important to note that prices tend to be higher during peak season. To save money, you can consider traveling during the shoulder season (spring or fall), look for deals, discounts, or special offers, or choose budget-friendly accommodation options, like camping or hostels.
Do they speak English in Finland?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Finland, particularly in tourist areas and in the major cities. Most Finns speak English, and many have a high proficiency in English, so it is easy to communicate with locals and get around the country.
English is taught as a second language in schools, and many Finns have had a lot of exposure to the English language through international media, such as movies and TV shows.
Many signs, menus, and other information in tourist areas, such as hotels, restaurants, and museums, are in English, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to navigate and find what they need.
Many Finns also speak other languages, such as Swedish, German, and French, so it’s possible to communicate with them in those languages as well.
However, it may be more difficult to find English speakers in some rural areas or in small villages. In general, you should have no problem communicating with the locals in English.
In conclusion, Finland is a great destination for families looking for an adventure-filled vacation. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and wide range of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. So why wait? Start planning your family trip to Finland today!