Finland is a beautiful Nordic country known for its striking natural landscapes, fun winter activities, and warm-hearted people. If you’re considering a winter getaway to Finland, there are some key things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit. With proper preparation, you’ll be ready to embrace the magic of a Finnish winter.
Pack For The Cold Weather
Finland gets quite cold in the winter, with average temperatures ranging from -4°C to -10°C. Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers, including thermal underwear, fleece jackets, wool socks, gloves, and a winter coat. Waterproof boots are also essential to deal with snow and slush. Having the right cold-weather gear will allow you to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities.
It’s wise to pack extra layers that can be added or removed easily as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Be ready for freezing winds by packing a scarf, hat, and goggles as well. Finland is quite dark in the winter as well, so bring a powerful flashlight or headlamp if doing any night-time activities.
Experience Unique Winter Activities
One of the biggest draws of visiting Finland in winter is the array of unique activities and experiences on offer. From reindeer sleigh rides to snowmobiling, there are many ways to enjoy the snowy landscapes.
Popular winter pastimes include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and snow camping. Dog sledging offers an adventurous way to zip through snow-covered forests. Or test your ice-climbing skills on Finland’s frozen waterfalls.
Be sure to sample Finland’s favourite winter sport, ice hockey. Watch a match or join in a pick-up game on a frozen lake. The possibilities for winter fun are endless.
See The Northern Lights
One of the most magical sights in Finland during winter is the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. Caused by solar particles interacting with the atmosphere, the Northern Lights produce awe-inspiring displays of colour in the night sky.
There may have been some decent Northern Lights sightings in the UK, but there’s nothing that compares to heading far north to go and see them properly. The best areas to see the Northern Lights in Finland are Lapland and other northern regions. Go far from city lights on clear nights to maximise sightings. Joining a Northern Lights tour will help you find the darkest viewing spots. Or try Northern Lights hunting on your own by going snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at night. This natural wonder is a must-see.
Visit Santa In Lapland
The Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland is the official hometown of Santa Claus in Finland. Children and adults alike will delight in meeting Santa and his elves and exploring the Christmas-themed amusement park.
Activities include reindeer and husky sledge rides, snowmobiling, ice sculpture exhibits, and a Santa Claus post office. Mrs. Claus cooks traditional dishes like reindeer meatballs in her kitchen. Send a letter to Santa or cross the magical Arctic Circle line during your visit. Seeing Santa in his wintery home is sure to bring joy.
Sample Hearty Finnish Cuisine
Finnish cuisine is well-suited for cold winters, focusing on hearty, filling foods. Be sure to try staples like reindeer, moose, salmon, herring, and mushrooms. Warming soups and stews are common. Don’t miss popular dishes like karjalanpaisti (beef and pork casserole), leipäjuusto (fried cheese), and laskiaispulla (sweet rolls).
Lingonberries, cloudberries, and other foraged berries are featured in juices and jams. And no trip is complete without trying a steaming cup of glöggi, Finnish mulled wine. Fuel up with traditional Finnish foods to fight the winter chill.
Don’t Forget To Bring Some Virtual Entertainment For Bad Weather Days
While Finland offers endless winter fun, you may encounter some bad weather days during your trip. Grey, snowy days can put a damper on outdoor activities. That’s why it’s wise to come prepared with some virtual entertainment options for any time you get snowed or rained in.
Download Films, Shows And Audiobooks
Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi many hotels offer to download content before you go. This way you’ll have movies, TV shows, eBooks, podcasts and more right on your devices without needing an internet connection. Consider shows set in cold, snowy locales to enhance the wintery vibes. Bring compact portable chargers as backup for your devices too.
Pack A Deck Of Cards And Traditional Travel Games
A deck of cards is a handy item when stuck inside. Play solitaire, poker games and rummy with your travel companions. Classic travel games like Battleship, Scrabble, chess, and checkers are other great options. These games never require batteries or charging. If you’re looking to play some card games online, then why not log onto a Finnish casino? Finnish online casinos are great options for having some fun while you wait for the weather to clear up. Bonusetu breaks down the best online casinos in Finland and it’s easy to use. Visit their website to learn more.
Make Playlists For Singalongs And Dance Parties
Music is a fun way to pass the time and lift your spirits on dreary days. Make some lively playlists filled with singalong tracks or danceable hits. Plug in some portable speakers, crank up the music and have an impromptu indoor dance party. You’ll get your body moving and put smiles on your faces.
Do Arts, Crafts And Other Creative Activities
Get your creative juices flowing with arts, crafts, and other projects. Pack some origami paper, knitting supplies, crossword puzzles, adult colouring books and more. Or try creative writing challenges with your fellow travellers. Unleash your imagination to fight boredom.
Embrace The Sauna Culture
Finland boasts over 3 million saunas for just 5.5 million people. Sauna bathing is an integral part of Finnish culture year-round but especially during the winter. Stepping from the freezing air into the dry heat of the sauna is a rejuvenating experience.
Public saunas are easy to find, or you can book a private sauna at your hotel. Be sure to alternate between the sauna and a dip in an ice-cold lake or roll in the snow to stimulate circulation. Then relax with a cold beverage. Sauna etiquette like nudity and not talking is important to follow as well.
With the proper mindset and activities, even the gloomiest weather days can be turned around. Stay flexible, keep your sense of humour and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way on your Finnish winter getaway. Don’t let some bad weather ruin your fun.