Which city in Finland is better to go. The most beautiful city in Finland

Finland is one of the most mysterious countries in the world. With its endless forests, thousands of lakes, stunning northern nature, hot sauna and fish cuisine, it attracts everyone every year. more tourists and lovers of ski resorts. Holidays in Finland will be interesting for large groups of friends and family. Among the most beautiful cities Finland and the places that you should definitely visit are the following:

1. Helsinki;

3. Aland Islands;

4. Hämeenlinna;

5. Jyväskylä;

6. Lemmenjoki National Park;

7. Sights of Oulu;

9. Lake Savonlinna;

10. Tammisaari archipelago;

11. Tempera.

Each of the above cities and places of rest has its own characteristics, subtleties of architecture and landscape, but they are united by all the hospitable residents and a mass of corners of nature that have not been known to you until now, which will amaze you to the core and will certainly leave behind unforgettable impressions.

Helsinki is the capital of the "Land of a Thousand Lakes"

The first in our list of attractions in Finland is rightfully its heart - the capital of Helsinki. The lively northern city will amaze untouched nature, but at the same time a very developed infrastructure and a huge number of historical and cultural monuments. It is difficult to say exactly what is the hallmark of Helsinki, since each of the cultural monuments is interesting and beautiful in its own way, but you can note such places as the National Museum, the Gallery rich in masterpieces, as well as three huge theaters. In the suburbs of the city, connoisseurs of antiquity can visit several churches made of gray stone. In Helsinki, there is the largest Assumption Cathedral in Western Europe and the Lutheran Church, which is built in the Temppeliaukio rock. The church is equipped with a glass ceiling, so during the day during the service in the temple, a lot of light gets inside and you can watch the play of shadows. It is very difficult to convey in words the beauty of what is happening during the liturgy, you really need to see it with your own eyes.

Aland Islands untouched by modernity

The Åland Islands have their own unique and very interesting history. Today, 27,500 people live on the island. The whole industry of the island is in shipping, which is reminded to tourists by the Shipbuilding Museum and Sea Square. Nearby there is another no less interesting corner - the Jan Karlsgården Museum. It clearly displays all the nuances of an old island farm that existed in 1890.

Hämeenlinna - a village that honors its famous inhabitants

Speaking of the most beautiful cities in Finland, one cannot fail to mention the city of Hämeenlinna. It is located on a lake surface called Vanajavesi. In this city, there is a famous landmark of Finland - the Red Brick Castle. Spread out nearby beautiful park named after the composer Jean Sibelius, once born here. The locals appreciate their well-known countrymen, so they honor their memory. Also, in Hämeenlinna there are museums named after composers, and a church with a bust of another resident of the city - the poet Paavo Cajander.

Industrial center of Finland

Jyväskylä combines several features - it is considered a fundamental transport hub, as well as an industrial appendage, where most of the woodworking and metallurgical industries are concentrated. The city is famous for its festivities and a combination of medieval stone buildings and wooden dwellings. In Jyväskylä, you can see the old neo-Gothic City Church, the Municipal Theatre, a couple of monuments to Finnish poets and government offices.

Northern Lights inspiring poets

If you have already had the opportunity to visit the country where Santa Claus or Santa Claus lives, as he is called there, then look Northern Lights, you just have to. For modern people to see this spectacle is a dream, but the inhabitants of the country see it quite often. In winter, all tourists are guaranteed a show of lights. Many hotels are being built so that guests of the country can observe this miracle.

Lake Saimaa and Savonlinna

This part of the country has more water than land in its possession. Hills, shores, lakes and coniferous forests are the main features of the city of Savonlinna. This is a resort town located on one of the islands. Having visited this village, you will immediately catch the eye of such a landmark of Finland as Olavinlinna Castle. Many halls will plunge tourists into the world of unknown antiquity and tell about cultural heritage Finnish people. In the Chapel of the castle, wedding ceremonies and religious events are often held, if you are lucky enough to participate in them, you will remember it for a long time. For lovers of water walks there are excursions by lakes in neighboring cities countries that will also please with a mass of new impressions.

Scenic spots worth visiting

In addition to the above places, there are still a lot of beautiful cities in Finland and its attractions. Connoisseurs wildlife It will be interesting to visit the Lemmenjoki National Park, the largest park in the country in terms of size, untouched forests cover 1000 square meters. km. Hundreds of paths for travelers, compact cottages with a hearth and a hot Finnish sauna will surprise the most demanding travelers. In Lemmenjoki Park, you can find a wide variety of wild animals.

It is also worth visiting such beautiful cities in Finland as Turku - the oldest city in Finland and Vaasa with a giant nature reserve, an indoor water park and a crater from a meteorite that once fell.

The cultural sights of Finland are not limited to these cities, you can independently think over your route and move to those places that will be of interest to you and your family. In any case, you will definitely be happy that you have chosen this particular country for your vacation.

No matter what eyes Russian immigrants look at Finland, this country is close and even native. At one time, Finland generally existed as part of Russia. Today, the state has the status of a sovereign territory, and the living conditions of Finnish citizens can be envied even in Western Europe. A country where there is practically no corruption really looks interesting for those who are looking for a new way of life. Like any country in the world, Finland has its pros and cons.

Migrants in Finland: number, growth

According to the latest statistics, the number of immigrants who entered for permanent residence is 4% of the country's population, which is about 240,000 people. In addition, approximately 160,000 foreign residents are either temporarily present or have dual citizenship.

... More often than others, requests for a residence permit are sent by citizens of Russia. Common reasons for requesting are: family ties (43%), employment (32%), education (22%)…

http://yle.fi/uutiset/vid_na_zhitelstvo_v_finlyandii_chashche_vsego_zaprashivayut_grazhdane_rossii/6736183

Migration growth in Finland last years increases. The average figure for this indicator is fixed at the level of 500 - 600 immigrants for each year. A significant part of this figure is accounted for by labor migration. Spaniards, Italians, Greeks, Portuguese and, of course, Russians go to work with the Finns. However, at the same time, the number of emigrants is increasing rapidly.

Standard of living in Finland compared to Russia

If you look at the world ranking, the country has been in the TOP-20 in terms of living standards for many years (in 2018 - 15th line). Actually, this is already a distinctive feature of the country, when compared with Russia, which in 2018 took 49th place in the ranking of living standards.

The standard of living in Finnish is a peculiar phenomenon. There are practically no reserves of hydrocarbon raw materials on the territory of the country, as in Russia. There is one wealth - the forest, which the Finns dispose of extremely reasonably and rationally. Meanwhile, Finland is actively engaged in high technology and has moved far ahead in this direction.

Naturally, in such conditions, ordinary people - citizens of the country - live comfortably and comfortably. The government of Finland actively supports and controls the life of citizens. For example, the quality of food products is assessed with the participation of 18 special expert commissions. For comparison: in Russia there are only 4 similar commissions.

Video: first impressions of life in Finland by an emigrant from Russia

The following moment looks random against the background of absolute Finnish prosperity:

…2014 was the last year for 789 Finns who committed suicide. The causes of suicides were poverty, unemployment, depression, alcoholism, and a lonely existence. In 25 years, suicides have been halved. Record 1990 - 1500 suicides. The positive development is due to measures taken that have made it easier for people with mental disorders to access treatment and medication. The attitude of others towards the mentally ill has changed for the better ...

http://yle.fi/uutiset/v_finlyandii_napolovinu_sokratilos_chislo_samoubiistv_s_1990_goda/8631808

Educational sphere

The educational model of the Finns is reminiscent of the Russian (more precisely, Soviet). This is not surprising, since, being part of Russia in the past, the Finns borrowed all the best from the field of Soviet education and, as a result, brought elementary school to an exemplary level. Today, the Finnish school (the prototype of the Soviet one!) Is considered one of the best in the world.

Video: impressions of a Russian student about a Finnish university

Finnish education is free for all levels of study. This moment is used by Russian immigrants. A significant part of them arrive in the country for the purpose of studying. Higher educational institutions of the country are valued for the quality of teaching. Universities stand out in particular:

• Helsinki;
• Turku;
• Aalto.
• Oulu;
• Lappeenranta;
• Finnish Academy of Arts.

All of the listed educational institutions, and, in particular, the last university on the list, are very popular among immigrants from Russia and other countries.

Analyzing the school and family environment, it is worth noting the features of the upbringing of school-age children. The rights of the child are jealously protected by the state. If parents cross the permissible threshold of education, they thereby violate the rights of minors. And this is a serious article of the law, which is immediately applied by the authorities. There are no such rules in Russia. Good or bad, it's hard to judge. But the difference in the lives of citizens of the two countries is obvious here too.

Work and salary

Work on the territory of Finland is the same attractive goal for Russian labor immigrants as study is for students. High earnings up to 3 thousand euros per month are a tasty morsel. The Finns adequately pay even the labor of unskilled workers. Just get here Good work and large earnings for an immigrant is quite difficult. The unemployment rate among Russian immigrants is 30%, while unemployed Finns are slightly more than 8%.

A highly paid position requires a residence permit - a residence permit. Compulsory knowledge of the Finnish language - rule number 1 for specialists. If the requirements are met, the Finnish side is happy to hire Russian immigrant professionals in the field of construction, agriculture, and Internet technologies. Russian immigrants without qualifications remain in demand as servants in the hotel sector and medical institutions.

By level wages Finns are a little behind the leading countries of the European Union. There is a significant difference in wages depending on the scope and type of activity of enterprises. Thus, in state-owned enterprises, labor remuneration is often higher than in private firms. Surprisingly, staff over 65 receive higher salaries than younger workers. Russian life here is different from Finnish.

A striking feature of the Finnish labor market is the small difference between the incomes of the rich and the poor. In Russia, a manager of some raw materials company earns a million rubles a month, and a mechanic at a factory earns 15,000. The Finns, figuratively speaking, earn 4,000 euros for a manager, and 2,000 euros for a factory fitter.

…Finland does not allow a sky-high income gap. Managers of companies earn only two or three times more than ordinary workers. This factor has a strong effect on the crime rate, which in Finland is the lowest in the world…

http://forum.forvip.ru/

Pensions and benefits

The country guarantees a decent level of social protection for the poor, pensioners, children, the unemployed, and young mothers.

The list of social support is impressive:

• supplement to earnings for each child;
• a one-time allowance for the birth of children;
• compensation for the maintenance of housing for pensioners;
• disability payments;
• benefits for unemployed people;
• and a number of other positions.

Pension provision provides for the payment of a labor pension accrued based on the results of labor activity. In addition to the labor pension, the following can be paid:

• national pension;
• pension payment to immigrants;
• disability pension;
• old age pension.

... The minimum pension (national pension) for single pensioners is 496 euros. Family pensioners are paid 436 euros (commune of the 1st category) and 400 euros (commune of the 2nd category). You can only receive a full national pension if you have lived in Finland for 40 years. Recently, for older immigrants (over 65 years old and living in the country for more than 5 years), a special allowance for migrants was established. The amount of the benefit is the same as the national pension...

ELE_alive

http://age60.ru/forum57.html

If the labor pension is assigned according to the actual age - 63 years, then the old-age pension is assigned to persons whose age has reached 68 years. The average amount of pension provision is 1500 euros. At the same time, pension accruals are taxed.

... Russian immigrant pensioners are paid a social minimum. True, the purchase of medicines is paid by the social service. A pensioner goes to a pharmacy, buys medicines there at his own expense, and then the money is returned to him. Pensioners can do eye surgery for free - cataracts, glaucoma, etc. The social service also helps with paying for housing if the pension is small ...

Faina

http://age60.ru/forum57.html

healthcare

Health care in Finnish clearly characterizes such an indicator as life expectancy (79.7 years). Another significant criterion for the quality of medicine is the death rate of newborns (1.3 per 1000 births). Both indicators indicate that Finnish medicine is at a high level.

The healthcare system is built on the basis of state institutions with the involvement of private doctors. Wherein private sector is under the strict control of the state. Medical services are paid. True, contacting state clinics provides for compensation. Therefore, citizens spend no more than 20% of the total cost on treatment.

About Finnish tax policy

The country's tax policy is clearly a separate topic from the discussion of the social benefits of Finnish society. Separate, because thanks to tax collections, all the public goods of Finland are called into question. If in Russia the same pensioners are exempt from taxes on real estate or vehicle, Finnish pensioners pay in full.

The amount of income tax is set individually for each category of the commune (regional territorial division). It could be 20% tax or 36%. Any additional income received is taxed at a rate 1.5–2 times higher. Thus, compared with Russia, the Finns also succeeded here, but not for the better.

How many Russian migrants live in Finland

According to official figures, Russian migrants make up 1% of the total population of the country. A little over 60 thousand people in digital terms. By ethnicity, it is the third largest community in Finland. There are two Russian communities, different in principles of origin. One is the migrants of the old generation who settled on Finnish soil before the 1990s. The other is a new wave of migrants that began arriving in the early 1990s.

Until 1996, the flow of new Russian immigrants was practically unregulated. Settlers from the sub-ethnic group "Ingrian" rushed into the country. According to available data, there are about 25,000 of them today. Later, the Finns tightened the requirements for the criteria of Finnish origin, plus they introduced mandatory knowledge of the Finnish language. And today, Russian immigrants (with the exception of tourists) can no longer cross the Finnish border unless they pass the IPAKI test with level A2 (language test exam).

Are Russians Good Today?

The attitude is quite favorable. However, there are problems of discrimination against Russian-speaking migrants in terms of their employment. This topic was raised even at the level of the Council of Europe. The European Commission on Human Rights noted serious violations. The Finnish authorities quickly responded to the remarks and even initiated the creation of the Russian Culture Support Fund. Nevertheless, the pronounced Russophobia among the indigenous inhabitants of the country cannot be overlooked.

...Finns don't understand why Russians believe that they have become beggars over the past 10-15 years? Has anyone seen Russians with an outstretched hand on the Finnish porch? Finland and Russia are brought together by their neighborhood, but the existing stereotypes make them perceive their neighbors inadequately...

http://e-finland.ru/info/culture/otnoshenie-finnov-k-russkim.html

World of travel

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17.10.18 09:54

Endless forests, picturesque islands, turquoise lakes and clear rivers - Finland is fabulously beautiful! You will not find gassed bustling cities here, the delightful cities and towns of Finland are located in the middle of the waterways, from where the natural wonders of the country of Suomi are within easy reach. High-end shops and fashion boutiques dot the avenues of the tourist cities of Finland, and the Arctic Circle promises real adventures, it's not for nothing that the estate of Santa Claus flourishes here. Historical centers and their ancient wooden buildings are magnificent, museums are famous for their interesting expositions, and the influence of Russian and Swedish architecture is amazing. Here are the most beautiful cities in Finland that are worth visiting.

Magic islands, eclectic architecture: the delightful cities of Finland

Lappeenranta: fortress and resort

Lying on the shores of the largest lake in the country, Lappeenranta was originally a garrison town, but gradually turned into a charming resort. It belonged to the Swedish Empire, and then for some time our compatriots ruled here. A huge fortress, magnificent Lake Saimaa, its picturesque shores (Lappeenranta is part of South Karelia), wonderful cafes and a harbor make the Finnish city a tasty morsel for tourists. And since it is close to Russian border, there is no end to our vacationers here.

Porvoo: a kaleidoscope of wooden houses

The oldest (after Turku) city in Finland, Porvoo is famous for its historical center - with unique warehouse buildings lining the banks of the river of the same name and wonderful cobbled streets. Porvoo was founded in the Middle Ages, and its proximity to Helsinki makes the city a great option for a day trip from the nation's capital. Colorful wooden houses, an excellent culinary "scene", unique cultural events - that's why it's worth visiting Porvoo.

Vaasa: Mecca of students

In Vaasa, formed at the beginning of the 17th century, many Swedes live (the neighboring Scandinavian country is located on the other side of the Gulf of Bothnia, less than 80 kilometers away). The former name of the city of Finland is Nikolaystadt, since the Russians ruled here. Old city heavily damaged by fire, so most of Vaasa is relatively modern. In general, this is a city of young people - it has three universities and many inexpensive bars and restaurants, which have long been chosen by students. The nearby Norra-Kvarken Strait is amazing and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Savonlinna: St Olaf's Castle

Savonlinna is located in the center of the Saimaa lake region, borders Russia and occupies several small beautiful islands. This is an attractive place for lovers of wildlife and breathtaking lake views. The indisputable advantage of the city of Finland is the dramatic 15th-century Olavinlinna Castle (or St. Olaf's Fortress), erected by the Swedes. It has been hosting a fantastic opera festival every year for more than a century. Be sure to take a walk along the harbor, look into its cafes and the market square.

Jyväskylä: popular rally

Another Finnish city located between two lakes (they are called Keitele and Päijänne), Jyväskylä is the largest locality in the Lakeland region. Amazing architecture, noisy night life(there are a lot of teenagers in the city), proximity to magnificent lakes where good beaches, - these are the "trump cards" of Jyväskuli. This is a relatively young city, founded by Emperor Nicholas I in 1837. Since the early 1950s, auto rallies have been held here, and during this “hot” time, the streets of Jyväskuli are filled with visitors.

Rauma: the historical center protected by UNESCO

The old city of Rauma with its rhythmically beating "heart", market square, and atmospheric streets full of wooden buildings - the largest in Scandinavia, since 1991 it has been on the list world heritage UNESCO. In addition, Rauma is an important port on the Gulf of Bothnia. The pride of the city is lace, a week-long annual festival, held since 1971, is dedicated to this craft and craftswomen. Not far from the coast there are several small islands - in the summer there are pedestrian tourist routes, and when the ground is covered with snow, flourish winter views sports.

Turku: former capital

Turku, former capital Finland is beautiful, there is where to spend time! In addition, it is the oldest (and the sixth most populous) city in the country. An impressive castle and cathedral grew up in Turku even before the 13th century. Their ancient atmosphere is perfectly combined with a lively young "aura": Turku is full of students, as well as nightclubs and pretty bars. This is the cultural and scientific center of Finland, a large port, a gateway to the West, from Turku it is easy to get to Stockholm and St. Petersburg (along the E18 highway). Carries its waters through the city beautiful river Aurajoki (here it flows into the Archipelago Sea). In winter, it is Turku that becomes the main city of Christmas with a stunning festive spruce.

Tampere: Rugged Rapids and Galleries

A rich cultural and artistic scene, two huge lakes, picturesque parks leading to tree-lined streets, rapids running through the busy center - Tampere is not without reason considered one of the most beautiful cities in Finland. Once there was a large industrial power plant, then the old buildings were redeveloped, they housed galleries, museums, cinemas. Sculptures, interesting shops, restaurants are scattered around the city, and locals and tourists enjoy spending time at night parties.

Rovaniemi: Santa's Wonderful Home

In the far north of the country, near the Arctic Circle, the most fabulous city Finland - Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and the home of Santa Claus. This is the most popular tourist destination– who among us would not like to go to visit Santa or bring their children here? The city was practically destroyed during the Second World War, so outside the village of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is not the most attractive place with banal typical houses. But, if you look at the "light" to the winter wizard (of course, during the holiday season), you will ride on reindeer sleds, take pictures at elegant buildings and firs winking with multi-colored illumination. And in cultural center Arktikum you will learn a lot about the Sami culture and local traditions.

Helsinki: eclectic architecture and Baltic charm

Of course, our list of the most beautiful cities in Finland cannot be imagined without the capital of the country, magnificent Helsinki, located on the Baltic. There is remarkable architecture here, reflecting both Finland's rich heritage and the influence Russian Empire, - churches and cathedrals, wooden houses, Art Nouveau buildings, boutiques, galleries, shopping centers. Shopping in Helsinki is excellent, as is the menu of the local restaurants. There are fantastic gourmet cafes, eateries with healthy food and national dishes. Islands, forest edges, beautiful beaches - the nature of the surroundings of Helsinki has prepared for travelers a lot of pleasant experiences and charming surprises that can be found in any season, whether gold autumn, bright spring, snowy winter or warm summer.

You know, there are such picture cities that somehow miraculously draw themselves in our minds. A certain collective image of illustrations for children's books, frames of vintage commercials, episodes of famous films, old postcards and photographs...
But there are real images of such cities. It is they who get on all these drawings, frames, episodes and postcards. And when you once find yourself in such a place and your memory starts pulling out small visual fragments from its bins, you begin to become delighted without noticing it.
Perhaps this is the pleasure of contemplating, seeing, being among all that was once only visual images.
I twisted it, I'm surprised myself)
In fact, all this lyrics arise in the head for a reason. Just recently I visited a very beautiful place, which I personally singled out for myself as the most beautiful city in Finland.
This is the town of Porvoo, the oldest city in the country after Turku. There is an absolutely stunning old district in which time has stopped for 100 years, no less. Old wooden houses and warehouses, vintage shops and cobblestone streets... even some cars and people from the middle of the last century.
Porvoo is a ready-made set for classic films, some of which, by the way, were filmed on these streets. I wonder if you can guess the most famous of them?
At the very end of the post I will name it)

2. You could see the city of Porvoo more than once in photographs or postcards. This view: the river and red wooden buildings on the shore. They are the hallmark of Vorvoo and are the most famous cityscape.
These are former port barns. Once upon a time, back in the late 18th century, they were painted red in honor of the arrival in the city of King Gustav III of Sweden.

3. The city of Porvoo was founded almost 800 years ago. As I said, this is the oldest city in Finland after Turku. Somehow it so happened that Porvoo has become something like a bohemian corner of Finland. AT different time many famous Finnish artists and poets lived and worked here, including Johan Ludwig Runeberg, author of the Finnish national anthem.
Porvoo is located 50 kilometers east of Helsinki. In summer, a small steamer goes here from the Finnish capital. Porvoo is not a coastal city in the full sense of the word. It is spread out on the banks of the Porvoonjoki River, a few tens of kilometers from the place where the river flows into The Gulf of Finland. The river runs right through the center of the city and along one of its banks and this oldest Porvoo is spread out, which has been suspended for 100 years in time.

4. Historically, Porvoo was important shopping mall, therefore, goods and exotic delicacies brought from distant lands were stored in its coastal barns, and in numerous shops on the streets you could buy something that you could not buy in the rest of Finland

5. Many of these shops have survived to this day. And you can still buy things in them that you can’t buy in the rest of Finland. True, now these are not overseas goods, but local vintage goods and souvenirs.

6. In fact, every old house on the streets of the historic district of Porvoo is a shop or a restaurant. True, not all, but part of it. The owners live in the other part of the house. This area has not become exclusively popular, but remains an ordinary residential area. Today, its population is about 700 people and on many houses there is a sign "Private" so that tourists do not disturb.

7. Trading shops side by side with the most ordinary residential buildings and this has its own charm - you do not feel like in an ethnopark.

8. Showcase of a chocolate shop.

9. Toy Store Showcase

10. Of course, Moomin trolls are sold here ...

11. ... and simple souvenirs

12. I really like the design of local souvenir shops!

13. Coffee house. By the way, coffee houses and restaurants are another visiting card of this old district.
In general, for lovers of delicious food, Porvoo is the number one city in southern Finland. Back in the 19th century, the inhabitants of Helsinki came here on purpose to taste delicacies in local cafes and restaurants.

14. Each street is a texture, each gateway is a paradise for a photographer

15.

16. Old Porvoo is one big open-air museum. Residential quarter, there are no shops or taverns at all

17. And this main square old Porvoo. Here, on the contrary, everything is commercial and offers delicious food. But it was the same 100 years ago. Area is area

18.

19. As I said, there are many private households here, which are guarded by "Private" signs and gentle dogs.

19. It is interesting that in Porvoo a large percentage of the inhabitants are Swedes, which is eloquently evidenced by the names on the door plates. Here, even some of the signs are in two languages ​​- Finnish and Swedish.

20. In the courtyard of one of the houses

21. Have you guessed yet what kind of famous film was shot in these places? Remember)

22. Summer in Finland

23. Figures on the windows of residents

24. And in the yards

25. Stone residential building. Clumsy, but beautiful in its own way

26.

27.

28. At the top of the city hill, a local landmark is the cathedral. It was built in the 15th century. In 1809, it was here, in the Porvoo Cathedral, that the Diet of Borgo was held. At a meeting of the Seimas, in the presence of the Russian Emperor Alexander I, the broad autonomy of the Grand Duchy of Finland was approved. For its long history Cathedral burned five times. The last fire was quite recently, in 2006. After reconstruction, the cathedral reopened in 2008.

29. Monumental bell tower of the cathedral

30. These are the cars found on the local streets.

31. A hill with an arboretum rises above the old Porvoo.

32. From here you have a panoramic view of Porvoo. It is this view that is captured in many famous paintings by Finnish artists.

33. Bank of the river Porvoonjoki

34. Boats at the former port hangars

35. Now there are restaurants and just residential buildings

36.

37. Yes, did you remember the film?
"For matches" Leonid Gaidai. In the film, the city is called Yoki, and its real prototype is the East Karelian city of Joensuu.

Finland is tough northern country. Ecotourism is popular among travelers coming to this country. Finland is famous for its nature - numerous lakes, water channels, National parks. All this creates an excellent ecology in the country. The climate of the country allows tourists to travel all year round. In summer, tourists prefer to visit amusement parks and open air museums. And in the snowy winter ride on ski resorts or to the residence of Santa Claus.

Quite a few interesting places located in cities. Museums, fortresses and castles, ancient religious buildings - the choice is incredibly large. Sights are located not only in the capital. AT historical centers small towns such as Rauma and Porvoo, you can see the old buildings. Many of them are magnificent examples of Scandinavian architecture.

The best hotels and hostels at affordable prices.

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What to see and where to go in Finland?

The most interesting and Beautiful places to visit, photos and a short description.

1. Senate Square and Cathedral (Helsinki)

2. Esplanade Park (Helsinki)

The park is 400 meters long, with lime trees planted around the perimeter. Founded in the 1830s. The undoubted decoration of the park are beautifully decorated luxurious flower beds. The park contains many monuments to famous and historical figures. Cultural entertainment is represented by the Swedish Theatre, as well as one of the oldest restaurants, Kappeli. Artists of various genres perform daily on its stage.

3. Sveaborg Fortress (Helsinki)

The impregnable bastions of the walled city of Sveaborg are located on rocky islands near Helsinki. This place is under the protection of UNESCO. Located in the fortress a large number of museums of various subjects - a military museum, a customs museum, a weapons museum, a toy museum. Guided tours of the submarine, which participated in the Second World War. On two islands, you can see the remains of military fortifications.

4. Olafsborg Fortress (Savonlinna)

The first fortress in the defense military affairs of Finland, which was built taking into account protection from artillery fire. Its construction began in 1475. It's popular at the moment tourist place, it houses several museums of various subjects - from the history of the castle to Orthodox iconography. Every year, opera festivals are held within the walls of the fortress. The event lasts about a month and is attended by approximately 60,000 people.

5. Abo Castle (Turku)

One of the most ancient castles in the country, located in, founded in the XIII century. The impressive size, as well as the durable building material - granite and brick, made it possible to use the castle not only for defense, but also as a prison or storage. The castle looks like a harsh military fortification, it has a medieval atmosphere. But inside its walls a solemn atmosphere is created, the halls of the castle are often rented for events.

6. Old Rauma

Historic center of Rauma. The city was founded in the 15th century, but the very first buildings of Old Rauma date back to the 18th century. Most of the old wooden buildings burned down in fires. Interesting wooden buildings are the House of the sailor Christie and the house of the shipowner Marel. They house museum exhibits. Rare stone buildings are represented by the Church of the Holy Cross and the City Hall.

7. Porvoo Old Town

A popular area of ​​the city with buildings from the 18th century. New buildings were erected here after the fire of 1760. Travelers are attracted by the flavor of the Middle Ages in cozy small courtyards and narrow cobbled streets. Of particular interest is a walk along the embankment of the Porvoonjoka River, surrounded by small wooden houses of brown-red color. Porvoo Cathedral is one of the most popular religious buildings in Finland.

8. Monument to Sibelius (Helsinki)

Dedicated to one of Finland's most revered composers, Jean Sibelius. Sculptor Eila Hiltuten worked on the monument project for almost 10 years. It is a composition of 600 steel pipes. The music created by the wind creates an image of nature, which often sounded in the compositions of Sibelius. The ambiguity of the monument is often criticized, while it is one of the most visited places by tourists.

9. Temppeliaukio (Helsinki)

One of the most unusual churches in the world. Its interior is carved into the rock, and natural light enters it through glass domes. Rough and untreated rocks create unusual acoustics in the church. The church organ has 3001 pipes. One of the masses of the church in 2016 was held to heavy rock music. About half a million people visit the church every year.

10. Kamppi Chapel of Silence (Helsinki)

The shape of the chapel resembles a wooden bowl without a handle. The interior walls are made of black alder, the exterior facades are made of spruce laths, and the furniture is made of ash. Silver altar cross. There are no windows in the chapel. Services are not held in it, its purpose is meetings and conversations in silence, far from the hustle and bustle of the world. Psychological assistance to parishioners is provided by both chapel ministers and social workers.

11. Assumption Cathedral (Helsinki)

The height of the cathedral is 51 meters. Built at the end of the 19th century. Red brick walls are crowned with 13 gilded domes. The interior of the cathedral is made in the traditional Byzantine style. The columns are made of solid blocks of granite; arched vaults decorated with paintings rest against them. The main drawing is made on the upper part of the vault and above the altar. The Holy Spirit is depicted in the middle, and the starry sky is around.

12. Turku Cathedral

Lutheran church, built in the 13th century in the Gothic style. The building survived a strong fire, several reconstructions and rebuildings. Currently, the height of the vault of the main nave is 24 meters, and the height of the tower of the cathedral is 101 meters. The walls of the cathedral are decorated with frescoes, and the chapels are decorated with stained-glass windows. The landmark of the cathedral is an organ with 81 registers. The church has a museum dedicated to the history of the Cathedral.

13. Arktikum (Rovaniemi)

Modern architectural complex, which includes a museum and a science center. A feature of the building is a glass atrium 172 meters long. It is called the "portal to the Arctic". The tunnel is located on the embankment of the Ounasjoki River. It is decorated with natural materials typical of the region. Various exhibitions tell visitors about the culture and history of Lapland, nature and Arctic exploration.

14. Ateneum (Helsinki)

Art Museum with the largest art collection in the country. The museum has collected more than 20,000 exhibits of various types of art - sculptures, graphics, paintings. The works of masters from the middle of the 18th century to the middle of the 20th century are presented. In total, more than 4,000 paintings and about 700 sculptures are exhibited. The museum's collections contain paintings by famous artists - Repin, Van Gogh, Levitan, Chagall, Shishkin.

15. Seurasaari (Helsinki)

Open-air museum island. The houses and buildings of the museum are designed to acquaint visitors with the way of life and traditions of the Finnish people. 87 buildings are collected from all over the country. Among them are examples of rural architecture of the 17th century, and estates of wealthy peasants of the 19th century. The oldest building of the museum is a wooden church from the village of Karuna built in 1686. Every year the museum is visited by several tens of thousands of visitors.

16. National Museum of Finland (Helsinki)

It was built at the beginning of the 19th century in the style of romanticism of national architecture. The decoration of the building is a high cone-shaped tower. The expositions of the museum tell about the history of Finland - from the Stone Age to the present. Most of the exhibits were found in archaeological excavations. The museum's collections are extensive in terms of subjects - coins, weapons, orders, jewelry, they tell about the culture and traditions of the country.

17. Kiasma (Helsinki)

Modern Art Museum. Considered one of the most visited in Finland. It was opened in 1998 and by now has collected a collection of works by contemporary masters from 4,000 exhibits. Paintings, photographs, video installations, spatial art objects are presented. The building itself attracts attention no less than the exhibits within its walls. Its architecture is interesting with curved lines, mirrored windows reflect the sun's rays.

18. Turku Art Museum

Located in a Romanesque castle with gray walls. The building was built on Puolalanmäki hill. The museum has a rich collection of art objects - paintings, drawings and sculptures, works by foreign and Finnish masters. There is an exposition of medieval wooden sculptures, a collection of weapons, coins and old toys. Art objects belong to different historical periods - from the Stone Age to the present day.

19. Helsinki Central Station

A world famous example of Finnish architecture. The building was built in the Northern Art Nouveau style, designed by the architect Eliel Saarinen. The station was opened in 1919. practical architecture modern building embellished with interesting details. The clock tower, almost 50 meters high. The walls of the restaurant hall are decorated with paintings. Sculptures with lanterns in their hands were installed at the main entrance.

20. Old Covered Market (Helsinki)

Founded in 1815, located on the embankment near the Market Square. It attracts the attention of not only tourists, but also gourmets of Helsinki. Gastronomy shops offer a wide range of dishes - both traditional products and delicacies from Lapland. In total, the market has about 40 outlets. Recently, for a large-scale reconstruction, the market was closed for more than a year.

21. Woodworking factory in Verla

The industrial village of Verla has a unique atmosphere. The woodworking factory in it was founded in 1872; it is a UNESCO protection site. Now it is a real industrial museum. In it you can learn the history of the development of the country's forest industry. The original factory buildings, factory machines and workers' houses have been preserved. The cardboard made at the factory was delivered to different parts of the world, even to South America.

22. Pyynikki Observation Tower (Tampere)

Located on the territory of the reserve in the city of Tampere. The tower was built on top of the ridge in 1929. The height of the tower is 26 meters, so its viewpoint located at an altitude of 180 meters above sea level. From it opens beautiful view on the city and two lakes. There is a cafe on the ground floor of the tower. It sells delicious donuts, and local artists arrange exhibitions of their paintings there.

23. Lemmenjoki

The largest park in Finland and one of the largest national parks in Europe. Its area is 2850 km². Most of the park is occupied by impenetrable forest. More than 60 hiking trails have been laid in places accessible to tourists. Trails lead to the main attractions of the park - Ravadasköngäs waterfall, Lemmenjoki river valley, Ukonsaari Island. You can also try your hand at gold mining - there are gold mines in the park.

24. Urho Kekkonen

Picturesque national park in northern Finland. The main excursions start in the village of Saariselkä. About 180,000 tourists visit the park every year. Including families with children - resort areas are equipped for them on the border of the park area, where you can even go skiing. The unofficial landmark of the park is the Korvatunturi fell. According to local legends, Santa Claus lives on this hill.

25. Coastal Islands

The national park was founded in 1938 and is part of the UNESCO reserve. Its feature is an unusual landscape - several thousand islands and rocks. On the major islands there is a permanent population. From the animal world, moose are interesting representatives; seals and seals live in coastal waters. There are a number of attractions on the islands - stone and wooden churches, lighthouses and fortifications.

26. Lake Saimaa

Most big lake Finland is formed by eight bodies of water connected to each other. The area of ​​the entire water surface is more than 4000 km². There are about 13,000 islands of various sizes in the waters of the lake. Among the abundance of inhabitants, one can single out rare salmon pitchforks and the endangered Saimaa seal. Dense coniferous forests grow along the banks. This is a great place for outdoor recreation.

27. Saimaa Canal

The water channel, 60 km long, connects the Gulf of Finland and Lake Saimaa. It has eight locks, three of which are located in Finland, the rest - in Russia. Both river and sea ​​vessels. Boat trip on Saimaa Canal popular with tourists. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the nature of the coast, historical sites, monuments and attractions.

28. Sapokka (Kotka) Water Park

A picturesque and well-groomed park in, beautiful at any time of the year. The flowers in it are planted so that their blooms succeed each other. The main feature of the park is the use of water as the main element of landscape design. Ponds, streams, waterfalls create a special atmosphere. Natural stone is also used to decorate the park. Original compositions from it have repeatedly received awards at international competitions.

29. Imatrankoski (Imatra)

30. Yuyuteri Beach (Pori)

Sandy beach in the west of the country, about 6 km long. Popular not only local residents but also for travelers. Large areas of shallow water warm up well, and entry into the water is smooth. This is especially appreciated by vacationers with small children. For lovers of surfing and kiting, Yyuteri beach is one of the the best places in the country. The waves here are not particularly high, but stable, which is especially valuable for beginners in these sports.

31. Särkänniemi (Tampere)

An amusement park of incredible size - its area is 50,000 m². There are 34 attractions for any category of visitors. For kids there are small play areas, for adult thrill-seekers there are 30-meter slides. A separate entertainment area was created based on the Angry Birds game. In addition to attractions, Särkänniemi Park has a planetarium, an oceanarium, a mini zoo and the highest observation tower in the country.

32. Linnanmäki (Helsinki)

An amusement park located in the capital of the country. It has 43 attractions, slot machines, an aquarium, an observation tower, cafes and restaurants. Popular artists in Finland perform on the open stage in the summer. The annual number of visitors to the park is more than a million people. The most popular attraction is the wooden roller coaster. The carousel, installed in Linnanmäki in 1896, still operates in the park.

33. Joulupukki Village (Rovaniemi)

The village of Joulupukki (Santa Claus, or Father Frost) is located in Lapland, inside the Arctic Circle. It is traditionally believed that this is where the Finnish Christmas grandfather lives permanently. This place is one of the most visited by tourists. The Joulupukki residence has a lot to offer. There is a fabulous post office, a snowmobile museum, a reindeer farm. Guests are attracted by the Snowman Ice World zone with slides and ice sculptures.

34. Vejo Rönkkönen Sculpture Park

The park is located in the forest thicket. All 500 concrete sculptures of the park were created by the self-taught master Vejo Rönkkönen. The sculptor spent about 50 years creating the works. He depicted people, animals and fabulous creatures. Caricature figures evoke different emotions in visitors. Someone they admire, someone calls them ugly and creepy. But no one remains indifferent. Entrance to the park is free, this is the desire of Vejo Rönkkönen himself.

35. Moomin Country (Naantali)

One of the best theme parks in the world where you can immerse yourself in a fabulous atmosphere. In it, you can meet your favorite characters and look at their lives. The park is located on an island and is an image of the Valley of the Mummy Trolls. It has a Moomin house and houses of other characters, a laboratory, talking trees. Artists in the characters of Tove Janson's books play with children. There are performances on the stage several times a day.