🌞 How to Spend Your Summer in Finland – Part 1
Hey everyone!
I’m super excited to share this guide on how to make the most of your summer here in Finland. As a student ambassador, I get a lot of questions from new students and visitors about where to go and what to do when the days turn long and sunny.
So, I decided to put together all my Favorite spots - from the must-see places in Helsinki and Espoo to beautiful day trips like Porvoo, Tampere and Turku. Whether you’re into history, nature walks, chilling at a café, or picking fresh strawberries, there’s something here for you. 🌸
Helsinki gems you shouldn’t miss
🏛️ Start with Senate Square
The heart of Helsinki! The stunning white Helsinki Cathedral stands tall here, and it’s perfect to sit on the steps with an ice cream and watch the city go by. This spot is buzzing with tourists, street musicians and pop-up events in summer. Trust me, just chilling here on a sunny day is such a vibe.
🌸 Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden
If you love flowers and calm walks, head over to the Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden. The outdoor gardens are free, and you can have a picnic here in spring, summer or autumn. The glass greenhouse is also beautiful for photos!
🌺 Haaga Rhododendron Park
For some nature right in the city, this park in Helsinki is a hidden gem. In June, the rhododendrons burst into bright colors - pink, orange, yellow, and it feels like walking inside a fairytale garden. Bring a friend and your camera!
🏖️ Espoo – coastal fun & nature escapes
🌊 Lauttasaari Beach
Okay, technically Lauttasaari is still part of Helsinki but right on the way to Espoo. It’s one of my favorite places to watch the sea, have a little picnic or even take a swim if you’re brave. The sunsets here are gorgeous!
🌲 Nuuksio National Park
One of my top recommendations if you want to experience the Finnish forest up close. Just about 40 minutes from Helsinki by train and bus, Nuuksio offers beautiful trails through lush forests, lakes where you can take a break or have a snack, and plenty of fresh air. It’s perfect for a day of hiking or even just a leisurely nature walk.
🍓 Bonus tip: Strawberry fields forever!
When summer arrives, keep an eye out for farms around Espoo and Vantaa that offer strawberry picking. Spending a sunny afternoon picking fresh, sweet strawberries is such a wholesome Finnish summer tradition — and you get to take home boxes of your berries.
So that’s part 1 of our summer guide!
In Part B, we’ll explore beautiful nearby cities like Porvoo, Tampere, Turku, Hämeenlinna, and Hyvinkää, plus I’ll share a bit more about finding berry farms beyond Helsinki.
-Sanower
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How to Spend Your Summer in Finland – Part 2
(Day trips to explore beyond Helsinki & Espoo)Hey again! 👋
So, after soaking up all the amazing spots in Helsinki and Espoo, it’s time to hop on a train or bus and check out some of Finland’s other charming towns and small cities. These places are all close enough for a day trip or a relaxed weekend getaway.