Finland Editor Picks

Dating from the 14th century, Porvoo was once Finland’s second biggest city. Today it’s known for its lovely and unique Old Town, where boutiques and craft shops mingle with galleries, small museums, and restaurants – all just an hour northeast of Helsinki.

Once the seat of Swedish dominion over Finland, Turku Castle is now one of the largest surviving medieval castles in all of the Nordic countries. Dating from the 13th century, the castle is one of Turku’s most prominent landmarks as well as Finland’s most visited museum. Begin your visit in the Castle Cottage, where you will learn about the castle’s construction history and then move into the main castle to appreciate the architecture first-hand. The museum, also located in the main building, contains collections ranging from historic ceramics and jewelry to costumes and toys.

Iittala is Finland’s premier glassmaking company, world renowned as the creator of highly stylish, yet exceedingly functional, housewares (starchitect Alvar Aalto even designed a line of items for them). Head to this compound of museum, factory, and outlet where you can learn about the history of their products and watch them being made. Afterward, swing by their shop and pick up a few items to bring home.

The most beloved of Finland’s many beloved architects and interior designers, Alvar Aalto is regarded locally as the Father of Modernism. This museum dedicated to his work, and located in the city where he opened his first office in 1923, houses both permanent and temporary exhibitions. See scale models, drawings, and photographs of his work.

In case you didn’t know, Santa Claus lives in northern Finland where, according to Finnish legend, his home and workshop are located in the impossible-to-reach mountains of Korvatunturi Fell. Not too far away, however, the jolly old man founded Santa Claus village, where you can see one of the elves’ toy factories, sign up for Arctic Circle snowmobiling expeditions, and explore Finnish Christmas traditions. Reputedly the country’s most popular tourist destination, the site captured the world’s attention when Eleanor Roosevelt visited in 1950. Flights to nearby Rovaniemi Airport triple in December to accommodate the influx of the Christmas curious.

This central municipal pool and sauna is one of the most beautiful anywhere. The classical 1928 edifice has curtained booths for privacy on the upper floor and a café for that all important post-sauna beer. Since swimming is clothing-optional, opening days are separated by gender – inquire before setting out.

Originally constructed in 1748 under Swedish rule, this island off the coast of Helsinki makes an enriching excursion. Wander the sprawling ramparts, explore the old church, visit museums of toys, arms, and more, and stop at one of the many cafés for coffee and cake.

Finland’s most significant collection of works by old masters (mostly Italian, Flemish, and Swedish) is housed in a former brewer’s office. That’s fitting, since the collection was begun by a brewer and his actress wife, who encouraged their social set to make donations, a trend that still continues.

Finland’s filmmaking Kaurismaki brothers, Aki and Mika, have another hit with their Soviet-chic café/bar kitted out with around nine pool tables, an adjacent vodka bar (Kafe Mockba/Moskova) and, downstairs, a cabaret stage (called Dubrovnik), and the Andorra cinema.