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- New horizons: Finland’s wonders for 2025
As we set out to explore new horizons for 2025, Finland sets the bar high as a sustainable and inspiring destination to host events that leave a lasting impression. From vibrant cityscapes to serene countryside retreats, Finland offers a unique mix of venues and accommodations to suit every occasion providing an ideal backdrop for unforgettable events. Finland’s capital Helsinki is bustling with art and culture and this Nordic gem is easily accessible with enhanced new travel connections from many parts of the world. Finland: A global gateway Photo by Olli Vainio You can fly, cruise or even drive to Finland. Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) airport is the country’s biggest airport and offers many connections to and from other parts of the country and abroad. Besides Helsinki, there are a handful of national airports, such as Rovaniemi (RVN) and Kittilä (KTT) in Lapland, that offer direct international flights. Finland's aviation sector appears to be bouncing back from the coronavirus pandemic, according to figures from Statistics Finland. Nearly two million passengers passed through Finnish airports in December 2024. In other travel news, Japan Airlines (JAL) is increasing its Helsinki-Tokyo route to five weekly flights starting March 30, 2025. With JAL’s upgraded service connecting Helsinki and Tokyo, Finland strengthens its role as a global gateway for business and leisure travelers alike, making it easier than ever to host international events in this Nordic gem. Global art in Helsinki This summer, Finland's capital Helsinki comes alive with the Helsinki Biennial 2025, organized by Helsinki Art Museum (HAM). This global art event transforms the city into a hub of creativity, offering a stunning cultural backdrop for your next event or visit. New hotels in Helsinki For those seeking contemporary luxury, Helsinki welcomes exciting new hotels: A breathtaking waterfront property redefining Helsinki’s hospitality scene blending wooden architecture, maritime surroundings, and serene ambiance of the hotel rooms with a stunning terrace with breathtaking 360-degree views of the sea An exquisite, luxurious, elegant property in the heart of the city including spacious rooms, luxury suites, a ballroom , chapel, and state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities, as well as a destination boutique featuring esteemed Finnish designers. An ideal base for both leisure and business guests, it offers an extensive range of conference and event facilities, including a stunning grand ballroom that is perfect for meetings and events. Unique accommodations near Helsinki Finland’s proximity to nature and its commitment to sustainability shine through in its unique accommodations, perfect for intimate gatherings or corporate retreats. Here are some unique accommodations found in Finland: An eco-friendly archipelago hotel ideal for a serene retreat and exclusive events. A stylish and cozy 24 room boutique hotel in the heart of a historic property. A historic manor surrounded by lush gardens, blending charm and elegance for unforgettable experiences. Eco-friendly luxury villas in a Finnish National Park, combining modern comfort with stunning natural surroundings. From serene waterfront retreats to charming historical settings and eco-friendly escapes in the heart of nature, the country offers countless possibilities for hosting private and corporate events alike. Discover how Finland can transform your next event into something extraordinary!
- A new era for Helsinki’s winter cruise tourism
A historic first for Helsinki and Next Travel Helsinki has made history by welcoming international cruise ships during the winter months for the first time, and Next Travel Finland has been pivotal in ensuring the success of this unique accomplishment. According to Selja, Project Manager, Cruise Operations at Next Travel, this achievement marks a significant milestone for Helsinki and the cruise industry in Finland, in general. Virve Kataja (on the left) and Selja Suominen (on the right) “This is the first time ever there have been winter cruise ships in Helsinki. It’s a huge milestone!” Selja says enthusiastically. “Previously, the last cruise ships of the year would typically leave in late October, but now we’re seeing ships in December and January. This demonstrates Helsinki’s potential as a year-round destination,” she explains. “It’s a privilege to be part of such a historic moment for both Helsinki and Next Travel!” she adds. “We closed 2024 with the last cruise ship on December 20 and opened the new year with cruise calls on January 2 in the port of Rauma and on January 5 in port of Helsinki,” Selja reflects. This historic winter cruise season not only showcased Helsinki’s winter beauty but also positioned Next Travel as a leader among Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in Finland. “Next Travel stands out by offering comprehensive services that highlight Finland’s culture and nature in innovative ways,” Virve Kataja, Director of Sales and Operations at Next Travel explains. "This season’s success is a testament to the city’s growing appeal and Next Travel’s commitment to play a key role in the growth of winter tourism year-round," Virve adds. As Helsinki strengthens its status as a year-round destination, Next Travel’s innovative approach ensures visitors leave with unforgettable memories of Finland’s winter magic also made in Helsinki and the capital region. Let’s take a look at what took place this Winter Cruise season! The Winter Cruise Season in Finland The state-of-the-art Ponant vessel, ‘Le Commandant Charcot’ designed for polar exploration did a series of cruises around the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. For instance, the vessel’s Scandinavian wonderland and Christmas markets cruises began on November 25 with subsequent departures on December 2 and December 11 starting in Helsinki. Selja, Virve, Gustavo (from left to right), Next Travel's Cruise Operations team In addition, the vessel’s Winter Magic in the Gulf of Bothnia cruises embarked on December 20 from Helsinki and during 9 days the ship cruised from Helsinki to the port of Kemi visiting along the way the ports of Stockholm, Rauma, Luleå and Oulu. On December 28, the cruise ship turned around in Kemi returning to the port of Helsinki passing the same route. The role of Next Travel In Helsinki, Next Travel arranged transfers and private tours for the embarking and disembarking guests on the ship’s turnaround days on November 25, December 2, December 11, December 20 and January 5. “On December 20 alone, we handled about 50 transfers to and from the ship, hotels, and the airport, as well as 5 private tours and 3 pre- and post-cruise programs”, Selja notes. “These turnaround logistics, especially in the wintertime, are placing Helsinki on the map as a turnaround port and it is a milestone for the future of cruise tourism in Helsinki”, she adds. In addition to the turnaround operations, Next Travel tailored pre- and post-cruise programs to showcase Finland’s unique offerings in wintery capital area. From Helsinki’s urban charm to immersive nature experiences, every detail was designed to delight the guests. Pre-cruise and post-cruises programs Exploring Helsinki’s Christmas Market and enjoying local delicacies Christmas Market in Helsinki, Finland (Photo by Jussi Hellsten) Venturing into the Finnish Archipelago for nature walks, sauna experiences, and an exhilarating float in icy waters equipped with a survival suit. Ice-floating arctic experience Discovering a picturesque city near Helsinki and enjoying glögi, Finland’s traditional spicy mulled wine. Picturesque wooden towns near Helsinki Visiting the capital of Estonia, Tallinn and its medieval old town that is a short distance by boat from Helsinki, the capital of Finland. Tallinn, Estonia Enjoying forest therapy in a National Park near Helsinki, meeting reindeer and embarking on a husky hike. Feeding reindeer in Finland “For the pre- and post-cruise programs, we organize everything from transfers, hotels, restaurants, guides, and activities, all tailored to our guests’ preferences. The majority of the guests of 'Le Commandant Charcot' were French-speaking, and we ensured they had French-speaking guides and seamless experiences throughout. There were English-speaking guides and experiences offered in English, too,” Selja explained. Next Travel’s dedication to seamless logistics was evident throughout the winter season. “Our team -Selja, Gustavo and I- has truly gone above and beyond to make this season memorable which continues until April 1 when the last winter cruise call in Finland takes place,” Virve explained. Gustavo Helal, Project manager, Cruise Operations, Next Travel “This winter season represents a new era of winter tourism. Next Travel is proud to be part of this process, offering unparalleled experiences in Finland’s winter wonderland!” Virve remarked. Welcome to Helsinki and Finland in winter and throughout the year!
- Explore Finland in 2025
Kick-off 2025 with purposeful travel that inspires and energizes. Finland offers business travelers and incentive groups unique opportunities to combine work and leisure while embracing adventure, growth, and wellness resolutions . This time of year people self-reflect and think about their New Year aspirations. Top New Year's resolutions often align well with travel, especially for business travelers seeking unique experiences. Here are some of the most common resolutions and how they can inspire resolution-focused and growth-centric incentive trips in Finland: Explore new places : Finland offers diverse destinations from urban metropolises such as Helsinki for urban exploration, Lapland for Arctic adventures, the Lakeland region for tranquility or the Coast and Archipelago for cruises. Stay active : Encourage physical activity through snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, or even ice swimming challenges. These activities not only promote health but also foster team-building. Learn a new skill : Finland provides unique opportunities for skill development, such as ice sculpting, wilderness survival workshops, or mastering traditional Finnish crafts like glassblowing. Improve work-life balance : Wellness retreats in Finnish nature (mindful forest practices) or luxurious resorts are excellent for promoting relaxation and mental clarity while rejuvenating hard-working professionals. Why is Finland ideal for business travel in 2025? Bringing your groups to Finland in 2025 ensures an impactful and memorable experience due to its world-class infrastructure, unique venues, pristine nature, safe environment, and focus on sustainability. Whether you're planning a conference, incentive trip, or business travel, Finland is the ideal destination for combining business with unique, resolution-inspired experiences. Here are ways individuals can reach their own resolutions when travelling to Finland: 1. Explore new places Helsinki: Wander through the design district, explore the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress, or visit the contemporary Oodi Library for cultural immersion as a local. Lapland: Embark on an Arctic safari to see the Northern Lights, visit Santa Claus Village, or take a reindeer sleigh ride for a magical winter adventure. Lakeland: Discover the tranquility of Saimaa Lake with a cruise, or relax in a lakeside cottage surrounded by serene forests. Coast and Archipelago: Experience the idyllic charm of islands, perfect for summer cruises or cycling along coastal trails. 2. Stay active Snowshoeing: Explore snowy forests and frozen lakes while enjoying the serene silence of nature. Nordic skiing: Ski along well-maintained trails with stunning views of Finland's iconic lake landscapes. Ice swimming: Challenge yourself at luxury or traditional saunas, where you can take a refreshing dip in icy waters followed by a hot sauna. Ice floating: Float around in a survival suit in frozen waters before warming up with a hot drink around a campfire. 3. Learn a new skill Ice sculpting: Attend a workshop where you can carve your own masterpiece from blocks of ice. Wilderness survival in a National Park: Learn essential skills like building a fire, navigating nature, and finding edible plants. Glassblowing in Fiskars Village: Try a hands-on experience engaging in this traditional Finnish craft in one of the artisan workshops. 4. Improve work-life balance Forest therapy: Join a mindful forest walk, combining Finnish nature with techniques to reduce stress and boost creativity. Wellness retreats: Stay in lakeside spa hotels offering yoga, sauna rituals, and guided meditation. Digital detox: Unplug entirely by staying in an off-grid cabin, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature. Finland is an ideal destination for travelers seeking fulfillment and balance in the new year. Tailored incentive travel in Finland Discover how Finland’s unique offerings align perfectly with your team’s New Year’s resolutions. Whether your goal is fostering innovation, promoting wellness, or rewarding top performers, Finland delivers unforgettable experiences that motivate and inspire. 1. For teams seeking collaboration and innovation Resolution: Foster creativity and teamwork Team-building in the Finnish Archipelago: Plan a retreat amidst Turku’s scenic islands. Engage in activities like sea kayaking and island hopping, paired with fireside brainstorming sessions that encourage collaboration in a relaxed setting. Inspiring design tours: Finland’s design landmarks, such as Helsinki’s Design Museum and Alvar Aalto’s iconic works, provide fresh perspectives for innovative problem-solving Follow the light . Finland’s winter light festival Lux Helsinki is a must-see. It is an annual light art festival, takes place in January and February, showcasing stunning light installations from artists around the world. Take a guided walk tour and discover the charm of the unique art installations at night. 2. For teams wanting to recharge and reconnect Resolution: Prioritize wellness and work-life balance Corporate wellness retreats: Recharge in the pristine north with activities like snowshoeing, aurora hunting, and sauna sessions—perfectly combined with business discussions to rejuvenate the workforce. Forest therapy in a Finnish National Park: Guided nature walks reduce stress and enhance focus. Wrap up the day with an outdoor networking dinner under the stars. Traditional sauna experiences: Strengthen team bonds in a classic Finnish sauna, followed by delicious local treats like smoked salmon on rye and craft gin or beer—all enjoyed with spectacular views. Indulge in a luxurious spa. Finland’s luxury spa treatments often combine modern wellness techniques with natural therapies inspired by Finnish traditions and natural ingredients. Indulge in a Nordic Sea salt scrub or try an Arctic cloudberry peel to rejuvenate your skin. 3. For adventure-loving incentive groups Resolution: Reward top performers with adventure Ice rally driving in Lapland: Test the thrill of driving on a frozen lake, then celebrate successes with an award ceremony in an Arctic venue. Husky safaris: Lead a team of sled dogs across snowy trails and end the adventure with a hearty meal in a traditional kota hut. Canyon hike: Marvel at frozen waterfalls during a winter hike and enjoy a warm lunch by an open fire in the peaceful Arctic wilderness. Arctic survival courses: Build camaraderie through unique challenges like ice-floating, shelter-building, and ice fishing. 4. For business travelers combining work with exploration Resolution: Balance work and cultural experiences Culinary experiences: Network while savoring Finland’s innovative cuisine at top restaurants, such as those focusing on Nordic flavors and local ingredients. Cultural immersion in Porvoo: Take a step back in time with a guided tour of this historic town’s cobblestone streets, vibrant artisan shops, and quaint charm. Midnight golf: Whether it’s summer under the Midnight Sun or winter snow golf, this activity is perfect for team bonding or client entertainment. Sauna healing: Combine relaxation and relationship-building in luxurious saunas, paired with gourmet meals overlooking the Baltic Sea. Forest therapy: Join a mindful forest walk, combining Finnish nature with techniques to reduce stress and boost creativity. Wellness retreats: Stay in lakeside spa hotels offering yoga, sauna rituals, and guided meditation. 5. For eco-conscious professionals Resolution: Travel sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint Carbon-neutral meetings: Host events at eco-certified venues that blend sustainable practices with Finnish hospitality. Green transport alternatives: Opt for trains or electric buses for intercity travel, allowing you to enjoy Finland’s scenic landscapes while minimizing your environmental impact. Walk the talk: Walk on foot and enjoy sightseeing with an expert local guide. Let Next Travel help plan your next business adventure in Finland—get in touch today!
- Finland: A winter wonderland
When you hear 'Finland', the first thing that comes to mind is a 'Winter Wonderland'. What’s not to love about traveling to Finland in winter? Imagine breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, mesmerizing Northern Lights, thrilling winter adventures, festive Christmas markets, and the irresistible warmth of a sauna after a day outdoors. Remember that winter kicks off in October or November in Lapland, and a little later in southern Finland. Snow covers the ground until April (sometimes until May) and Northern Lights dance in the sky brightly in spring when the skies are clear! Sleep under the Northern Lights If you've ever dreamed of watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky from the comfort of a cozy bed, Finland makes that dream a reality. In Finnish Lapland, you can experience nature’s most spectacular light show from glass-roofed cabins, Arctic treehouses, or Lappish-themed huts with transparent walls. Fun fact: Did you know that the Northern Lights are visible on roughly 200 nights a year in Finnish Lapland? For the best chance to catch them, head north between late August and April, when long, dark nights that twinkle with starry skies are your friends. Tip: Apart from sleeping in a snow hotel in Lapland, you can also get married in a snow chapel, or even build your own snow hut under expert guidance (and then sleep in it). You can also enjoy a meal in a snow restaurant, grab a drink at an ice bar, or explore a snow castle that looks like it’s straight out of a winter fairytale. Meet Father Christmas in Lapland What could be more magical than meeting Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle? A visit to Lapland is not complete without dropping by to see Father Christmas himself. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just embracing the holiday spirit with your colleagues, it’s a heartwarming experience that brings joy to everyone. Tip: Send Christmas postcards to your friends and family or request a unique letter from Santa Claus that will be mailed from Santa Claus' Main Post Office and get the official Santa’s special stamp and Santa Claus’ Main Post Office postmark, which you can’t get from anywhere else in the world. Snowmobiling on frozen lakes If you’re after adventure, snowmobiling across frozen lakes and forests is a must! It’s a thrilling way to experience Finland’s winter landscapes. Many of Lapland’s top ski resorts also offer snowmobile safaris. Reindeer and husky safari: Travel the traditional way For something more laid-back but equally special, why not hop on a reindeer or husky safari? You'll settle into a comfy sleigh while reindeer pull you through the picturesque wilderness. Many reindeer herders will even offer cinnamon buns and coffee by the campfire as they share stories of reindeer herding, adding a cozy, cultural twist to the adventure. Break the ice – literally! For a truly unique experience, board the Arctic Icebreaker Sampo, a majestic ship that once worked Finland’s icy seas for trade. Now, it takes visitors on one-of-a-kind cruises, where you can hear the ship’s steel hull breaking through thick layers of ice. As if that’s not thrilling enough, you can even take a dip in the freezing sea in a survival suit! Christmas markets and pikkujoulut As the Christmas holiday season approaches, Finns love to gather for ' pikkujoulut ' ('little Christmas' or 'Pre-Christmas' parties) or strolls around the Christmas markets. Christmas markets light up the streets of all major cities, filled with seasonal cheer. Sip on hot glögi (Finnish mulled wine) while you wander through the festive stalls. You’ll find gingerbread cookies, salmon soup, and all sorts of local delicacies, perfect for embracing the spirit of the season. It’s an experience that warms you inside and out! Contact us at info@nexttravel.fi and get an offer for your group! Welcome to Finland!
- Spooktacular Finland
This Halloween season, embark on a chilling journey through haunted spots, spooky sites with chilling stories around Finland. The autumn season is warm, and cozy with the spectacular bloom of foliage colors (‘ruska’ in Finnish) but it is the time when the days are getting darker and the leaves are dying. Yet nature shows its ‘sisu’ (perseverance, courage) and goes into survival mode. Seasonal gastronomy is flourishing using fresh ingredients foraged above and below the ground and as the hunting season starts different kinds of game are added to the cuisine. Get inspired by some of the programs Next Travel can organize for your group! 🐻War history, mythical rocks and bear watching at Saimaa in Lakeland Finland Eastern Finland holds a treasure, the enchanting Lake Saimaa with its pure nature. Saimaa is unique in Europe. Situated in the heart of Europe’s largest lake district, is one of the best places in Europe to visit for a unique holiday. An important Saimaa Geopark Geosite and a national shrine is Astuvansalmi , one of the biggest rock painting sites in the Nordic countries. The paintings are on steep bedrock approximately 10 metres above the current water level. The paintings are estimated between 4500 and 6000 years old. Mystic figures, elks, human figures and handprints are displayed on the rock. This impressive site is watched over by a ‘rock god’, a rock that resembles a human head. The 184-metre high Neitvuori (‘maiden’s hill’) with its peak being 110 metres above Lake Saimaa was named after a maiden who plummeted to her death from a cliff, when fleeing the Russians during the Great Northern War. From Neitvuori, in clear weather, you will have beautiful forest views and a panorama of the Luonteri archipelago in the labyrinthine Lake Saimaa. 🐾Bear watching in Eastern Finland Experience the most unforgettable nature experience in Eastern Finland: watching the Finnish national animal, the brown bear. We can organize a wildlife safari with adventure enthusiasts to spend the night in a hide inside a booth or small cabin quietly from evening to morning, and watch through tiny windows as the predators arrive to eat the carcass hidden in front of the booth. Bear safaris are 100% safe – not suitable for the youngest children in the family. 😬The spooky Parikkala Sculpture Park Visit this peculiar park full of hundreds of weird concrete statues, made by the Finnish folk artist Veijo Rönkkönen. Located in Parikkala, eastern Finland, Veijo Rönkkönen's sculpture park is home to hundreds of bizarre statues, some even featuring real human teeth. As Finland’s most significant collection of contemporary folk art, these concrete figures are known for their haunting facial expressions, which give the park an unsettling atmosphere. Adding to the eerie vibe, some statues are accompanied by sound effects, enhancing the park’s spine-chilling ambiance. 😱Haunted walking tours in Helsinki and Suomenlinna Fortress Island Helsinki is filled with haunted houses, execution sites and other frightful attractions. The historically and culturally significant buildings of the Alexander Theatre and the Finnish National Theatre are homes to ghosts. The legend has it that the bricks for Alexander Theatre came from a fortress that was bombed during the Crimean War and alongside the bricks came a ghost who loves opera and likes to open doors! The Finnish National Theatre is also the residence of half a dozen restless spirits that are said to inhabit the building, walking around the main stage, backstage and changing rooms. The ghost of Urho Somersalmi sits in the director’s stall and disappears if anyone spots him! Finnish actor Urho Somersalmi murdered his wife with an ax he received as a gift from the Finnish Actors' Union and he later on hanged himself. Gallows rock in Arabia shoreline of Helsinki The oldest execution site in Helsinki was erected along the Arabianranta shoreline in 1550. Thieves and murderers, as well as many high-ranking nobles were instantaneously sent to the scaffold and were also hanged there. The Dreadful Suomenlinna -tour Explore the hidden spaces inside the imposing stone walls of Suomenlinna Fortress island on a guided tour. Beneath lofty vaults and within the depths of dark corridors, the history of the fortress unfolds in a whole new way! The Dreadful Suomenlinna -tour is based on historical facts and figures, and it focuses on the dark side of human life. In the past, those who had done wrong often ended up serving time in the fortress. In the 1700s and 1800s, in the margins of the fortress community lived also women, who had fallen through the cracks and ended up in equally infamous professions. The tour also discusses lethal agents invisible to the eye: diseases! 😱Lodge glamping and the unsolved mystery of Lake Bodom in Espoo (Helsinki Metropolitan Area) Autumn is a season for lodge glamping so you can experience the best of Finnish nature as the tent allows sounds and the pure scents of nature inside while keeping the rain and wind out. We can organize your transportation, accommodation, nature activities, and hiking in the woods. This lake in the suburbs of Espoo may seem idyllic, but it was the location of one of the most gruesome unsolved crimes in Finnish history. In June 1960, four teenagers on a camping trip were attacked in the night. There has since been a lot of speculation and theories of what happened that night, but the mystery remains unsolved. The lake itself is beautiful and peaceful but it is disturbing to walk around it with this knowledge. With this theme, we can also organize an escape room team working experience for your group . 🏰 The haunted Mustio Manor in Raseborg Over 200 years old and a home to many ghost stories, such as ‘the grey lady’ that haunts the corridors at night. The grounds at Mustio now house a hotel, a restaurant, a summer theatre and a museum. Experience an unforgettable Halloween at Mustio Manor, come and feel the chills and listen to captivating ghost stories at Southern Finland's most famous haunted manor. Join a Halloween ghost tour through the manor's historic rooms and most secret corners for chilling stories about the manor's past and tales of former residents, ghostly phenomena, and unexplained events. Contact us at info@nexttravel.fi and get a quote for your group! Welcome to Finland!
- 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.