Finland uncovered: How long should you stay to experience it all?

Finland is a destination rich in natural beauty, cultural depth and exhilarating adventures. Whether you're drawn to its pristine wilderness, captivating cities or unique cultural experiences, planning the right trip length is essential to make the most of your journey. Preparing for a Finnish holiday in 2025 or crafting your next getaway? – Sunvil’s personalised itineraries ensure every moment is tailored to your interests. Choosing the perfect trip length is key to fully experiencing Finland’s many charms. Let Sunvil guide you in planning the ideal trip:

3 to 5 days: A taste of Finland

A 3 to 5-day visit is perfect for discovering the urban delights and natural beauty of Finland. Start your adventure in Helsinki, Finland’s vibrant capital, where world-class design, culture and nature come together.

• Helsinki highlights: Start your holiday by strolling through the historic Market Square, admire the architectural beauty of the Helsinki Cathedral and explore the Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For a contemporary twist, visit the Oodi Central Library and the striking Amos Rex gallery. Food enthusiasts can savour local delicacies at the city’s lively food markets, while those seeking relaxation can unwind at Loyly sauna or take a dip in the Allas Sea Pool.

• The Archipelago: Helsinki’s surrounding archipelago is a summer paradise. Explore its islands for a scenic escape, perfect for hiking, picnicking and soaking up the coastal beauty.
• Day trips: For a cultural twist, take a day excursion to Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, just a short ferry ride away (2-3 hours). Alternatively, visit the quaint, historic town of Porvoo, known for its cobblestone streets, wooden houses and picturesque riverside views.
• Nuuksio National Park: A short drive from Helsinki, this park offers serene forests and trails ideal for hiking and birdwatching. It's a great escape into nature, right on the city's doorstep.

• Winter Activities: If visiting in winter, venture north to Finnish Lapland for a magical experience. Stay in a glass igloo or at the SnowHotel—both offering incredible views of the Northern Lights. You can also enjoy winter sports such as snowshoeing, ice fishing and visiting the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.
• Travel options: Direct flights from the UK make Finland easily accessible. Fly into Helsinki, Ivalo or Rovaniemi, depending on your chosen adventure.

With so much to offer, a few days in Finland promises an enriching and unforgettable experience, whether you visit in the warmth of summer or the snowy embrace of winter.

6 to 9 days: Immersive nature and culture

For travellers looking to dive deeper into Finland’s landscapes and cultural experiences, a 6 to 9-day holiday offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. With Sunvil’s tailor-made itineraries, you can explore Finland’s hidden gems while also venturing into other Nordic countries.

• Finnish Lakeland: Begin your adventure in the breathtaking Lakeland region, where the shimmering waters and green shores of Lake Saimaa beckon. Stroll through the medieval town of Savonlinna, where the historic lakeside castle stands as a testament to Finland's rich heritage and traditional charm.

• Sauna Culture: No visit to Finland is complete without embracing the restorative experience of a lakeside sauna. Immerse yourself in this vital aspect of Finnish life, where the gentle heat and tranquil surroundings create a serene escape, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature.
• Turku: Discover Turku, Finland’s oldest city, filled with rich history and vibrant culture. Explore its medieval architecture, including Turku Castle or enjoy a boat ride along the Aura River where the rhythm of life unfolds before your eyes.

• Aland Islands: Board a ferry to the enchanting Åland Islands, a unique cultural fusion of Finnish and Swedish influences. Here, the archipelago’s serene beauty invites exploration, from charming museums to peaceful vistas that encourage relaxation and reflection.
• Bothnian Bay: For an unforgettable summer experience, venture along the Bothnian Bay, tracing the coastal path from Vaasa to Umeå in Sweden. This captivating stretch is a haven for sea enthusiasts, offering a wealth of outdoor activities, from island hopping to scenic coastal hikes that celebrate the region’s natural beauty.
• Nordic Capitals Route: Expand your horizons by pairing your Finnish journey with an exploration of the Nordic capitals. Start in Copenhagen, continue to Oslo, then on to Stockholm, before arriving in Helsinki. This route seamlessly weaves together history, modernity and the breathtaking beauty of Northern Europe.
• The Arctic Route: Highlight your adventure with The Arctic Route, a scenic bus service connecting Finland and Norway. It’s a perfect addition to tailor-made itineraries, offering a convenient and picturesque way to experience the Arctic landscape, in summer or winter.

With Finland’s unique combination of natural beauty and cultural richness, a longer stay allows you to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of this Nordic nation.

10+ days: A deeper dive into Finland

For those with 10 or more days to explore, a longer holiday allows for full immersion into Finland’s diverse landscapes, from the southern cities to the remote beauty of Lapland. The extended time gives you the chance to explore Finland at a slower pace, soaking in its natural wonders and cultural richness.

• Lapland: Whether bathed in the glow of the Midnight Sun during summer or painted in the vivid hues of autumn, Lapland offers remarkable journeys into untouched beauty. Autumn, in particular, reveals Lapland at its finest, with fiery foliage and heightened Aurora Borealis displays as solar activity intensifies. Few places on Earth provide such privileged opportunities—watching the northern lights weave across the sky, embarking on reindeer safaris or meeting Sami communities to connect with traditions that have endured for generations.
• Public Transport and Sleeper Trains: Finland’s efficient public transport system makes it easy to explore the country’s vast landscapes. To add a unique dimension to your holiday, board one of Finland’s sleeper trains connecting cities like Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, Savonlinna, and Rovaniemi. These comfortable trains allow travellers to wake up in a new destination, be it the lively cultural scene of Turku or the snowy expanse of Rovaniemi.
• Multi-Country Itineraries: Extending your Arctic adventure from Finland is simple with convenient flights from Helsinki to Tromsø and Svalbard. These connections open a path to explore Norway’s remote Arctic landscapes, where pristine beauty and rare wildlife encounters await.

Longer stays in Finland allow for deeper cultural engagement, fostering sustainable travel practices and encouraging exploration beyond the typical tourist trail.

Why book your Finland holiday with Sunvil?

At Sunvil, we specialise in creating personalised and sustainable travel experiences. Our Finland holidays are designed with attention to detail, ensuring that you enjoy tailor-made itineraries, local insights and a commitment to sustainability. We pride ourselves on offering 24/7 customer support and a personal touch that larger operators cannot match.

Get in touch with our Finland specialists

To begin planning your Finnish holiday, get in touch with one of our destination specialists, who will work with you to design your perfect trip. Contact our general reservation line at 020 8568 4499 or use our live chat feature to discuss your Finland holiday with Sunvil. Our Finland experts—Rosanna, Yasmin and Alison—are here to help.