Exploring Finland: 12 Fun and Interesting Facts about Helsinki and Rovaniemi
Finland is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history and unique cultural traditions. From its enchanting northern lights to its world-famous sauna culture, there’s so much to discover. Here are some fun facts and travel tips to make the most of your Finnish adventure.
1. Before arriving in Finland, the idea of Arctic temperatures was daunting. But with proper layer (a thermal base layers, insulated jackets, and my favorite trick of layering leggings and waterproof boots) cold weather became part of the adventure rather than a hindrance.
2. The Finnish love their desserts. You’ll find sweet treats and candies everywhere as in-between snacks. Try local treats like Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pasty), korvapuusti (cinnamon rolls) and salmiakki (salty licorice, if you dare).
3. The sauna culture is more than just relaxation — it’s a social and cultural tradition. Taking a dip in the icy lake after a steaming sauna felt extreme but was surprisingly invigorating. It’s a must-try experience, even for those skeptical about the cold shock.
34. Many of Helsinki’s highlights like cathedrals, markets, and scenic parks are easily explored on foot. The city’s efficient public transportation and widespread Uber availability make getting around effortless.
5. A quick ferry ride to Tallinn, Estonia, was an unexpected highlight. The medieval charm of Old Town was a stark contrast to Helsinki’s modern aesthetic, making for a rewarding side trip.
6. Seeing the aurora borealis is never guaranteed. Booking a Northern Lights Tour increased the chances of witnessing this natural wonder, but cloudy skies can always interfere. Always book a tour for the first night knowing you may have to reschedule. A good tour will give you the heads up so you don’t waste your time.
7. From husky sledding to snowmobiling, Arctic experiences add to the magic of Lapland. Planning ahead and booking in advance ensured the best options were available, especially during peak travel times like New Year’s.
8. Finns tend to be more reserved. They aren’t loud and most likely won’t socialize unless you make the first move. Don’t take it personally!
9. Cards are accepted everywhere, even in smaller towns. There was no need to exchange currency, making transactions effortless.
10. In Lapland, daylight lasted just a couple of hours. While this could have been disorienting, embracing the cozy atmosphere — reading, relaxing by the fire, or enjoying long meals — made it part of the charm rather than a drawback.
11. Public spaces were spotless and everything operated with an understated efficiency. It made traveling stress-free and enjoyable.
12. Instead of hot chocolate, Finns drink hot berry juice (mehu), often made from lingonberries, bilberries, or black currants, because it provides natural energy and vitamins to fight the cold.
Five days in Finland provided incredible experiences, from city exploration to Arctic adventures. The key takeaways? Pack wisely, embrace the cold, and dive into local traditions — the best moments often come from stepping outside your comfort zone. The full itinerary is here.
