FAQ:
Finland offers a diverse range of excursions to cater to different interests. You can enjoy nature hikes, wildlife watching, lake cruises, Northern Lights tours, cultural and historical tours, city walks, and winter sports adventures. During the winter, you can also participate in snowmobiling, ice-fishing, and dog sledding excursions.
Yes, Finland is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. It's recommended to book a guided excursion in Lapland between September and March for the best chances to see this natural phenomenon. Some tours even offer overnight stays in glass igloos for an immersive experience.
Absolutely, Finland is very family-friendly, and there are plenty of excursions tailored for families with children. These include visits to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, family-friendly hikes, wildlife safaris with a chance to spot reindeer and bears, and interactive museum tours. Many of these excursions are designed to be educational and fun for all ages.
Depending on the region and season, you may encounter a variety of wildlife on a nature excursion in Finland. In the forests, you might spot elk, reindeer, bears, wolves, and rare birds. In the coastal areas and archipelagos, you might see seals, sea birds, and occasionally even whales during certain times of the year.
For most excursions, especially outdoor activities like hiking or snow sports, it's important to have appropriate clothing and gear for the weather conditions. Providers usually offer essential equipment for activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, or skiing. For summer activities such as hiking, good walking shoes, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Excursions can be booked through travel agencies, tour operators, or directly with local excursion companies. Many hotels also offer excursion booking services for their guests. It's possible to book online in advance, which is advisable, especially during peak tourism seasons or if there's a specific experience you don't want to miss out on.
Yes, there are several excursions available that focus on the indigenous Sami culture of Northern Scandinavia. These might include visits to Sami villages, experiencing traditional Sami foods, participating in reindeer sleigh rides, and learning about the Sami way of life through storytelling and craft-making workshops.
During the summer months, consider the long daylight hours and try to take advantage of the "midnight sun," especially if you're going to North Finland. Prepare for varying weather conditions and bring layers, as it can be warm during the day but cooler in the evenings. Also, booking in advance is wise for popular attractions such as national parks and guided city tours.
Finland, known as the land of a thousand lakes, offers numerous water-based excursions. You can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and boat tours on the lakes and along the coastline. For a truly Finnish experience, consider a traditional sauna followed by a refreshing dip in one of the lakes—a common Finnish pastime.
Yes, it's possible to embark on excursions that cross over into neighboring Sweden, Norway, and even Russia. These might include day trips or more extended tours that allow you to experience the Arctic Circle, visit the border towns, or even take a train from Helsinki to St. Petersburg. Make sure to check visa requirements and travel restrictions based on your nationality before planning such an excursion.