Finland is a land of contradictions, where contemporary city chic rests alongside untamed wilderness. Helsinki on the Baltic coast is one of Europe’s trendiest destinations for young people looking for culture and a good time, while the north is where you can find snow sports, sledging and Santa Claus' Village. Anyone with a sense of exploration will find something to love in this special corner of North Eastern Europe.
Helsinki is one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. The city is full of parks, woodland and lakes that are great to hang out in during the warm summers. Those want to venture further afield should head up to the magical Lapland area, the heartland of Finland’s native Sami people. If you time your trip well you may also be lucky enough to see the world famous Aurora Borealis or ‘Northern Lights’.
The dining scene in Finland is a combination of exotic flavours and sophisticated Scandinavian minimalism. Our top tip is to try reindeer meat (maybe not one for the kids who don’t fancy eating Rudolph), cooked to perfection in an elegant Helsinki restaurant. Another favourite is Lihapullat – the Finnish challenge to Sweden’s famous meatballs. Finland has a good appreciation of fine wines and beers, whilst the proximity to Russia ensures the vodka keeps flowing all night.
Finnish
GMT +2
€6
€30
2.5 hrs
(from London)
Euro