Why fall in love with Finland

Whether you are chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, savoring the golden hues of foliage, or enjoying a peaceful sauna by the lake, autumn in Finland offers a unique and serene travel experience. It’s a time to connect with nature, explore the country’s forests and lakes, and enjoy the slow pace of the season. So, if you’re looking for an escape from the ordinary, plan your next trip to Finland and experience the quiet magic of Finnish autumn. You won’t regret it. Next Travel organizes tours since 1990 that leave long-lasting memories in the travelers' minds.

1. Ruska: Finland’s fall foliage at its finest

One of the most stunning aspects of autumn in Finland is 'ruska', the Finnish term for the vibrant color change in the leaves. The forests burst into brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red. Whether you’re hiking in the national parks of Lapland, or taking a leisurely walk through the forests near Helsinki, the beauty of ruska will leave you speechless. In fact, autumn is a favorite time for both locals and travelers to explore Finland’s wilderness, capturing incredible photos of the colorful landscapes.

2. The Northern Lights: early season magic

Autumn is an excellent time to witness the Northern Lights ('revontulet') in Finland, especially in the northern regions of Lapland. From September onwards, the darkening skies provide the perfect backdrop for this natural light show. What makes autumn special is that you can experience the Northern Lights without the deep freeze of winter. Imagine standing under a sky painted with dancing green and purple lights while being surrounded by the crisp autumn air and colorful forests. Popular destinations like Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, and Inari are great places to catch this phenomenon early in the season.

3. Fewer crowds, more peace

While summer is Finland’s peak travel season, autumn offers a quieter, more tranquil experience. Popular attractions and national parks, such as National Parks or lakes, are far less crowded, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature. This is the ideal time to enjoy Finland’s renowned 'jokaisennoikeus' (everyone's right), which allows you to roam freely in nature, pick berries and mushrooms, and explore the forests at your own pace. Whether you’re canoeing on a peaceful lake or hiking a scenic trail, autumn in Finland feels like your own private adventure.

4. Foraging season: berries, mushrooms, and herbs

Autumn is harvest season in Finland, and foraging is a popular activity among locals. Thanks to the 'jokaisennoikeus', anyone can walk into the forests to gather wild mushrooms, lingonberries, cranberries, and cloudberries. September and October are prime months for foraging, and the forests are full of treasures waiting to be discovered. Finnish markets and restaurants also offer an array of seasonal treats, from mushroom-based dishes to delicious baked goods made with freshly picked berries. Whether you're an avid forager or simply enjoy tasting local flavors, autumn is the perfect time to explore Finland's natural bounty.

5. Sauna by the lake: The ultimate Finnish experience

What could be better than soaking in a warm sauna while looking out over a tranquil autumn landscape? Autumn in Finland offers the perfect balance between the crisp, cool air and the warmth of a traditional Finnish sauna. After a day of exploring the forests or foraging for mushrooms, you can retreat to a lakeside sauna and relax. Many traditional saunas are located next to lakes, giving you the chance to take a refreshing dip in the cool water, a quintessential Finnish experience. In regions like Lakeland or near Finland’s national parks, you’ll find plenty of cabins and saunas nestled in peaceful settings. There are also many private and public saunas in Helsinki.

6. Misty mornings and tranquil lakes

Finland is known as the land of a thousand lakes, and autumn is a spectacular time to see them. Early mornings in the fall often greet you with mist rising from the water, creating an ethereal, almost magical atmosphere. The lakes, reflecting the vibrant colors of the surrounding trees, offer stunning scenery for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the shore. The Finnish Lakeland region, which includes lakes like Saimaa and Päijänne, is especially beautiful in autumn, with its golden reflections and peaceful ambiance.

7. Autumn festivals

Autumn in Finland is also a time for celebrating local traditions and seasonal festivals. Many towns hold 'syysmarkkinat' (autumn markets), where you can find local crafts, seasonal foods, and produce. Helsinki, for example, comes alive with markets offering freshly baked cinnamon buns, berry jams, and warm autumn dishes. For those interested in folklore and Halloween-style celebrations, Finland is increasingly embracing spooky traditions, with events and themed walks popping up in cities and rural areas alike. In the countryside, the harvest season is celebrated with community events, giving travelers a chance to experience Finnish culture at its heart.

8. Wildlife watching

Autumn is a fantastic time for wildlife watching in Finland. As animals prepare for the winter months, many species are more active, making it easier to spot them in their natural habitats. In the forests, you may encounter elk, reindeer, and even brown bears as they forage before hibernation. In Finnish Lapland, you can also witness the great migration of reindeer as they move towards their winter grazing grounds. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting migratory birds, as Finland is a key stopover for many species on their way south. Next Travel organizes wildlife watching experiences across Finland.