While the northern nation of Finland may often be forgotten when naming the great tourist destinations of Europe, the country has many attractions to keep any vacationer delighted.

Though a great year round travel spot, the country is known for its winter and seasonal activities and we are featuring Finland as one of our top locations for December.

Finland is known most for its natural beauty. The country has many lakes, nearly 200,000 altogether even when not counting the smallest ones. The wilderness is very accessible and you can sit at peace with nature by a lake or in one of the deep and lush forests, watching a moose or reindeer pass by. Saimaa, Inari and Paijanne are just some of the larger lakes in Finland, and accommodate tourists year-round. Finland also has a long coastline and many small islands to visit during your stay.

During the summer months, the days are long and the sun does not even set for many northern cities in Finland at all. While not a very mountainous country, hiking is popular in Finland because of its expansive natural beauty and many lakes. You may also wish to try your hand at fishing or canoeing in some of the clear waters that are abundant in the countrside.

Winter Sports and Pastimes Abound

Finland comes alive in the winter months, even while the days are short and dark. Cross-country skiing is quite popular, and there are some places available for skiing downhill as well. You may wish to take a trip in a reindeer or dog sleigh. The lakes are put to good use in the winter where you can get moving and play some ice hockey or just sit patiently as you try some ice fishing. The Finnish town of Kemi is home to the largest snow castle in the world, which is rebuilt differently every year. Serving as a hotel and restaurant, the snow castle is home to many ice sculptures and is a popular location for musicians to perform.

The capital city of Helsinki is a great place to set up camp on your vacation, even as you traverse the country. Home of the international airport and named the 2nd safest city in the world, Helsinki is a small but busy city waiting to be explored. The Linnanmaki Amusement Park operates in the city, giving visitors the chance to ride roller coasters and other rides.

Chrismas in Finland

As a bit of interest for children and parents alike, the northern town of Rovaniemi is home to Santa Claus Village. Many believe Father Christmas hails from Finland and the month of December is a special time there. The village is home to many shops and attractions, including Santa Claus’ office. A line drawn to represent the Arctic Circle cuts right through the park, and is a very popular photo opportunity for tourists.



Any trip to Finland in December is not complete without trying some of the nation’s alcoholic drinks, an important part of the Finnish culture. The national vodka, Koskenkorva, is very popular and has a definite sense of Finnish patriotism attached with it. Celebrate the holidays or ring in the New Year with this popular Finnish libation.

Finland is also a great place to see the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights. Located in the north as it is, winters can be especially cold so be sure to pack extra warmly as you prepare for your December trip to the exciting nation of Finland!