Finland is often overshadowed by its high-profile Nordic neighbours, but from its Arctic north to wood-strewn Baltic shores, Europe's seventh-largest country offers tranquil archipelagos ripe for kayaking, snowy winter landscapes perfect for cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing, 188,000 wood-fringed lakes for summer lounging and the unique Sami enclave of Lapland (purported home of Father Christmas!)
Finland is great for city slickers too: Its boulevard-laced coastal capital Helsinki is arguably the world's most design-infused city, from glorious architecture to a vast array of new and second-hand design shops. But there are lesser-known gems too; Turku was the beautiful former capital for centuries, while Tampere is like a hip 'Manchester of the North'.
The Finns are distinctive too. Outwardly quiet but great fun underneath, sharing a drink in a cool bar or warm conversation in one of the two million saunas – blissful steaming then a cooling dip. A perfect balance!
We experience the magic of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville and Verdi's La Traviata performed in a Finnish mediaeval castle set in a lake, travel through silver birch forest for chamber music concerts at Kuhmo on the Russian border and enjoy exploring the attractive capital Helsinki on a guided tour running 19 - 26 July 2020.
A journey by rail and boat between Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki – three of northern Europe’s most exciting cities.
If there's one place you can really feel on top of the world, the North Pole is it
This really is it, the ultimate Northern Lights grand tour! Combining unique highlights of Sweden, Finland and Norway, this 7-night holiday allows you to tick off a huge array of bucket-list experiences. A night at the ICEHOTEL®, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and searching for the Northern Lights in unforgettable locations.
Experience the best of Lapland (exploring across Norway, Sweden and Finland) on this comprehensive self-drive itinerary. Discover lakes, fjords, waterways, national parks and more, and get a true feel for this Sami heartland. The diversity of these three countries is easily distinguished - and there's a range of activities to try on your journey.
A winter adventure activity holiday in Finland, including an introduction to husky sledding
Explore the incredible scenery of Lapland as you travel through frozen forests and winter landscapes. Meet the wildlife of the region and head out on exciting Reindeer and Husky sleigh rides across the Arctic circle. A final night in a Glass Igloo offers a fantastic opportunity to hopefully see the illusive Northern Lights.
The perfect antidote to a cold, wet British winter is a cold, dry Arctic adventure! Away from the crowds, enjoy mesmerisingly peaceful scenes of frozen lakes and snow-covered pine and spruce forests as we explore the silent wilderness.
Scandinavia is rich in history, culture, and natural diversity. Discover them all on this exciting triple centre holiday . Helsinki is a mix of old and new, with glorious art-nouveau buildings. Stockholm is a beautiful waterfront city, compact and easy to explore. Oslo is home to top class museums and galleries as well as excellent restaurants.
The Finnish capital is a great choice for a Christmas market break, and you can even visit the markets of Tallinn, too.
