Finland is considered a modern country with its organized towns and cities. Beyond that, it is one of the world’s most technologically advanced countries. Despite its modern affairs, Finland still has a wide expanse of unspoiled nature. It also remains grounded to its roots with a well-preserved history. The top attractions of Finland reflect the country’s efforts to keep its nature, culture, and architecture intact.
UNESCO World Heritage Site in Helsinki, Suomenlinna
1. Saint Olafs Castle. The Medieval fortress is situated on Savonlinna, a picturesque island in Finland. Eric Knight Akelson Toth built it in 1475 for two main reasons – to control the Finland-Russia border and protect Savona. In the next few centuries, each subsequent king played a role in the continued development of the castle’s architecture until it turned out to its current eclectic state. Today, it is the venue of the Savonlinna Opera Festival each year.
2. Seurasaari Island. The island is only a few miles from Helsinki and has a unique, outdoor museum that portrays the traditional way of life in Finland. Estates and mansions reminiscent of past centuries were relocated to the island. Farmhouses and cottages are also part of the outdoor museum as these are typical of Finland. The outdoor museum is set in the midst of a serene oasis with beautiful sceneries and fresh air
3. Koli National Park. Much closer to nature than the Seurasaari Island, it is a nature reserve which protects mountain ranges and forests within its scope. Some of the mountains it protects are believed to be 2 billion years old. Within the national park are unbelievably thick forests which serve as homes to a wide range of animals and plants.
Lake Pielinen seen from a hill in Koli National Park.
4. Helsinki Cathedral. Currently the most popular tourist spot in all of Finland, the Lutheran cathedral receives more than 350,000 visitors each year. It has a traditional Greek cross base, a main square, and four extensions facing the north, south, east, and west. Completing its architecture is a colonnade and pediment. Inside, Helsinki Cathedral is even more stunning. It is one of the top reasons to visit Finland.
5. Market Square. Its market hall is near the South Harbour. All sorts of foods and commodities are sold there including spices and hand-crafted souvenirs. Nearby is the market café which although overcrowded, still provides a quick escape from the busy market area. If you drop by there on the first week of October, you will have the chance of experiencing the Baltic Herring Festival. It is a traditional celebration where a variety of fresh fish, handicrafts, and black islander bread are sold by fishermen on their boats.
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