Finland Tourism Shines with 13 Percent Growth in Helsinki: C… | kbnmart

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Finland offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences. Explore vibrant cities like Helsinki and Turku, and enjoy the serene wilderness of Lapland. In summer, the midnight sun illuminates stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring pristine lakes. Winter transforms Finland into a wonderland where the northern lights dance across the sky, and you can enjoy activities like husky sledding, skiing, and ice fishing. You will see the country’s commitment to sustainability in its eco-friendly accommodations and practices. Delight in Finnish cuisine, with its emphasis on local and sustainable ingredients, and embark on a delightful culinary journey. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Finland provides an unforgettable travel experience.

In Finland, the Travel & Tourism market is poised for significant revenue growth, with projections indicating it will reach $3.39 billion by 2024. This revenue is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.39% from 2024 to 2029, resulting in a projected market volume of $4 billion by 2029. The Hotels market is the largest segment, projected to generate $1.53 billion by 2024. By 2029, the Hotels market is expected to serve 3.45 million users.

According to Statistics Finland, the number of nights spent by non-resident tourists in Finland rose by 13 percent in June 2024 compared to the previous year, with Helsinki taking the lead with the highest numbers of foreign visitors coming from Sweden, Germany, and the United States. A total of 2.31 million overnight stays were recorded, with resident tourists accounting for 1.80 million nights and non-resident tourists for 0.51 million nights. This marked a three percent increase in total overnight stays from the previous year, with a one percent increase for resident tourists. Most overnight stays were in Uusimaa, which saw a 19 percent increase, while Pirkanmaa and Southwest Finland experienced decreases of seven percent and five percent, respectively.

In addition to the notable increase in overnight stays by non-resident tourists in Finland, the country has also streamlined travel for visitors by allowing visa-free entry to 72 countries, including all Schengen nations. This policy makes it easier for tourists from these countries to visit Finland, contributing to the overall rise in international travel and enhancing Finland’s appeal as a top destination for tourists from around the globe.

Tourism and Accommodation Trends

In September 2023, arrivals at accommodation establishments in Finland totaled approximately 1.02 million, encompassing both resident and non-resident stays. Visitor arrivals in May 2024 recorded 169,801 people, up from 129,852 the previous month.

World Happiness Report:

The World Happiness Report is conducted annually and is based on polls of people living in various destinations around the globe. Residents provide self-assessments of their lives by placing themselves on the Cantril Scale, which ranges from 10, the happiest you can be, to 0, the least happy you can be.

The report measures and investigates several factors that could correlate with variations in the average happiness of each country’s population. These factors include generosity, income, freedom of choice, and life expectancy.

Finland the best place to retire:

Recently, Finland was named the best place in the world to retire. The study conducted by We Buy Any Home awarded Finland the top spot based on factors including healthcare, pollution, and the happiness index. Finland emerged as the best country to retire with a perfect score of 100, thanks to its outstanding healthcare system, low pollution levels, and high happiness index.

Finland topped the scale due to high scores in generosity, income, freedom of choice, and life expectancy. For instance, residents in Finland reported that they thought it would be “highly likely” to see lost possessions returned, reflecting a strong sense of community and trust.

Experience Lapland’s Northern Lights:

Lapland, Finland, is a prime destination for witnessing the extraordinary northern lights. This Arctic region transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the aurora season, offering not just a breathtaking visual spectacle but also a variety of activities. These include immersing oneself in local culture and exploring the pristine nature, making for a truly unique experience.

The optimal period to experience the northern lights in Lapland is from late September to March. These months feature sufficiently dark nights, creating an ideal canvas for the auroras’ display. To increase your chances of witnessing this celestial phenomenon, plan your visit to coincide with the new moon phases, as minimal light pollution during these times significantly enhances visibility.

Sustainable Tourism Progress in 2023

The ‘State of Sustainable Tourism 2023’ report by Visit Finland showcases advancements in sustainable practices within the travel sector. Notably, nearly half of the companies participating in Visit Finland’s Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program actively track their carbon footprint.

Despite widespread climate change mitigation measures, the report highlights concerns about nature loss. While many companies in the STF program are successfully reducing emissions, the battle against habitat loss is still in its early stages.

Emission Reduction Efforts

Most companies in the STF program are actively engaged in climate change mitigation, achieving significant emission reductions. To aid businesses in managing and reducing their carbon outputs, Visit Finland has developed the Tourism Carbon Footprint Calculator.

Reflecting tourism’s growing environmental consciousness, over 70 Finnish tourism industry businesses have joined the Glasgow Climate Declaration. This initiative aims for zero emissions by 2050 and a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030. Signatories emphasize the need for collective efforts in cutting emissions and enhancing the environment, including peatland restoration.

Global Leadership and Future Goals

Finland ranks third globally in the number of signatories to the Glasgow Climate Declaration. Visit Finland is committed to increasing this number, demonstrating leadership in sustainable tourism practices.

Finnish Food Tourism

Purity, Healthiness, and Quality
Finnish food is renowned for its purity, healthiness, and quality. The ingredients thrive in the pure air, soil, and water of the Northern climate. The Nordic diet emphasizes health-promoting foods like fish, rapeseed oil, whole grains, berries, root vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.

Food Tourism Offerings
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of culinary experiences in Finland. These include:

• Restaurant Meals: Enjoy tasty meals based on local ingredients and stories.
• Home-Cooked Food: Experience traditional Finnish home-cooked dishes.
• Street Food: Savor delicious and convenient street food options.
• Guided Cooking: Participate in guided cooking sessions of Finnish food.
• Wild Ingredients and Foraging: Engage in food tourism products related to wild ingredients and foraging.
• Nature and Cultural Dining: Dine in natural and cultural environments.
• Food Routes and Events: Explore various routes and events centered around food tourism.
• Marketplaces and Specialist Stores: Visit marketplaces, cheese factories, vineyards, distilleries, and small breweries, and enjoy the programs built around them.

Connection to Stories and Locality
Food tourism in Finland is deeply connected to stories, locality, and purity. These elements enhance the overall experience, making it unique and authentic.

Interactive and Memorable Experiences
At its best, a food tourism product involves participation and activity, allowing visitors to learn something new. This interactive approach makes the travel experience memorable and enriching.

Best Time to visit Finland:

The Nordic country of Finland is truly unique, with its distinct culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. It offers a plethora of experiences for travelers of all types. Deciding the best time to visit Finland depends on your interests, as each season presents a unique aspect of the country’s culture.

Summer in Finland

Running from June through August, summer is the peak season for visitors. The sun is out, and the weather is warm, attracting travelers from Europe and beyond. This is the best time to enjoy Finland’s natural beauty. You can go on cruises, fish at the iconic lakes, or pick berries in the countryside. Additionally, the world-famous Midsummer festival, celebrating the summer solstice, takes place during this season. It offers an unforgettable experience, making summer the ideal time for many to visit Finland.

Winter in Finland

Winter in Finland, from December to February, offers a different kind of charm despite the cold. The Finnish Lapland becomes a dreamy, white winter wonderland. Visitors can go skiing, partake in reindeer excursions, try dog sledding, and witness the ethereal Northern Lights. If these activities excite you, then winter is the best time to travel to Finland.

Vesku the Reindeer Charms Tourists on Social Media

Engaging Activities
Vesku the reindeer, the star of Visit Finland and Lapland’s regional tourism organizations’ joint campaign, has indulged in various activities during filming. These include forest walks, mountain climbing, and yoga sessions, highlighting the diverse experiences Lapland offers.

Starring Role in Summer Campaign
Vesku plays a pivotal role in this campaign aimed at raising awareness about Lapland’s summer offers for active holidaymakers. The campaign showcases the unique and appealing facets of Lapland during the summer months.

Captivating Social Media Presence
In a captivating social media initiative, Vesku, known as @veskuthereindeer, explores Lapland’s picturesque landscapes. Through engaging posts, Vesku connects with followers from around the world, showcasing the best of Lapland’s summer.

Collaborative Effort
Visit Finland collaborates with five regional tourism organizations—Ruka-Kuusamo, Visit Rovaniemi, Visit Levi, Visit Ylläs, and Lapland North Destinations. Together, they aim to promote the unique attractions and activities that make Lapland a prime destination for summer tourism.

Sustainable Hotels to Stay Overnight in Finland

Lehmonkärki, Asikkala, Lahti Region
Lehmonkärki is a family-owned holiday resort with a history spanning almost 60 years. It offers 20 different villas and cottages, accommodating a total of 140 beds. Guests can enjoy quality accommodation, restaurant and sauna services, and various group activities. Independent customers have access to equipment like kayaks and electric mountain bikes. Located on the picturesque lakeshore of Päijänne, one of Finland’s largest lakes, Lehmonkärki is less than a 2-hour drive from Helsinki and about 40 minutes from Lahti.

The resort has long been committed to sustainable development. It uses 100% renewable electricity, environmentally friendly products, and resource-efficient technology. In the past five years, Lehmonkärki has installed solar panels, complementing its existing geothermal heating systems and energy-efficient air source heat pumps.

Järvisydän, Rantasalmi, Savonlinna Region
Hotel & Spa Resort Järvisydän, known as LakeHeart in English, offers a range of accommodations along with restaurant, spa, and activity services. It is situated by the clear waters of Lake Saimaa and Linnansaari National Park. The hotel has 184 rooms and a total of 550 beds. Located about 3.5 hours from Helsinki, Järvisydän is a 45-minute drive from Savonlinna and its airport, and just over an hour from Kuopio and its airport.

Sokos Hotels, Nationwide Chain
Sokos Hotels is Finland’s largest hotel chain, operating nearly 50 hotels in 30 locations. While many Sokos Hotels are in city centers, there are rural options such as Break Sokos Hotel Bomba in Nurmes, Northern Karelia, and Break Sokos Hotel Koli in Koli National Park. In 2024, Sokos Hotels will open a new hotel in Helsinki’s Katajanokka district. Jukka Kaartinen, Development Manager at S-Group Chain hospitality management, states, “The new Solo Sokos Hotels Pier 4 aims to be the most environmentally responsible hotel in Finland.”

All Sokos Hotels hold the Green Key label, reflecting their sustainability commitment. Kaartinen highlights the importance of guest trust and turning sustainability promises into actions. Sokos Hotels is regarded as the most sustainable hotel chain in Finland, according to the yearly Sustainable Brand Index study, which reflects customer views. The Green Key label not only helps customers recognize sustainable hotels but also provides concrete steps for hotels to reduce their ecological impact.

Places to Stay in Finland

The Barö, Inkoo, Helsinki Region
The Barö hotel, opened in summer 2021, is a model of sustainability. Utilizing modular construction, the hotel minimized wildlife disruption, reducing building noise and preserving trees. Today, wildlife thrives around the hotel, with deer often visible near its panoramic windows. The Barö offers 18 separate accommodation rooms, accommodating up to 45 guests, and includes two meeting spaces. The Berg restaurant, part of the hotel, emphasizes sustainable cuisine made from local ingredients or those sourced from trusted suppliers. “At The Berg, we pride ourselves on offering sustainable cuisine crafted from local ingredients or those sourced from trusted suppliers,” says Netta Paavoseppä, Marketing Director and partner of The Barö.

Bearhill Husky, Rovaniemi, Lapland Region
Bearhill Husky, a family-owned husky kennel company in Rovaniemi, offers a memorable wilderness experience just a half-hour drive from the city center. Guests can enjoy thrilling husky activities and cozy accommodation just a few hundred meters from the kennel. The cabins, immersed in tranquil wilderness, come equipped with modern amenities. Visitors can relax in a personal wooden sauna, unwind in the hot tub, and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Viiksjärvi lake.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Finland

The highly anticipated Michelin Guide Nordic Countries for 2023 was released in June, with the city of Turku in Finland taking center stage. This year’s guide features an impressive selection of 271 restaurants, with 81 earning the coveted Michelin star. Additionally, 34 restaurants received the Bib Gourmand rating, and 38 were honored with the Michelin Green Star, recognizing their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This highlights Finland’s culinary excellence and dedication to sustainable dining.

New Additions to the Michelin-Starred Family
Among the exciting announcements, five exceptional Finnish restaurants were welcomed into the Michelin-starred family. With Olo, Tapio, Gaijin, Le Ankka, and Nokka making the list, Finland’s culinary prowess was showcased on an international stage. Each establishment offers a unique dining experience, demonstrating a passion for culinary innovation and gastronomic perfection.

Highlighted Restaurants

Olo

• Address: Pohjoisesplanadi 5, Helsinki, 00170, Finland
• Description: An attractive harborside townhouse hosts this cool, minimalist restaurant. Its four rooms have a delightfully understated feel. Guests can choose from seasonal 6 or 9 course menus featuring local meats such as moose and elk, presented in exciting, innovative dishes. Passionate chefs often proudly deliver and explain the flavorful creations.

Tapio

• Address: Rukatunturintie 9, Ruka, 93830, Finland
• Description: Situated near the slopes in the ski resort of Ruka, this charming restaurant is run by British Chef Connor and his Finnish partner Johanna. They serve around 20 guests in a warm, relaxed setting adorned with vintage skiing posters. Each dish is based on excellent produce, such as hand-dived Norwegian scallop or local trout, with accompaniments that add real depth of flavor, like a rich foraged cep sauce with the scallop.

Gaijin

• Address: Bulevardi 6, Helsinki, 00120, Finland
• Description: Gaijin features dark, contemporary décor, a buzzing atmosphere, attentive service, and a focus on sharing. The experienced owners offer boldly flavored, skillfully presented modern takes on Japanese, Korean, and Northern Chinese recipes. Tasting menus provide a great way to sample the different cuisines.

Le Ankka

• Address: Huvilakatu 28, Helsinki, 00150, Finland
• Description: This tiny restaurant has a natural buzz, enhanced by an open kitchen that feels like part of the room. A racing green and matte black color scheme adds to the moody décor. The cooking pairs Finnish produce with classical French techniques and flavors, exemplified by dishes like vichyssoise made with ‘almond potatoes’ from Lapland. The wine list features mostly natural and organic choices.

Nokka

• Address: Kanavaranta 7f, Helsinki, 00160, Finland
• Description: Marked by a huge anchor and propeller, this harborside warehouse features three high-ceilinged rooms juxtaposing brick with varnished wood. An on-view kitchen allows diners to watch wonderful, sustainably sourced ingredients being prepared in a rustic style. The cooking has a strongly Finnish heart, with classic dishes like freshly made blini topped with crème fraîche, pickled red onions, and vendace roe. Friendly, professional service enhances the experience.

Helsinki Airport Receives Top European Airport Award

Best European Airport of 2023
Helsinki Airport, managed and developed by Finavia, has been awarded the prestigious title of Best European Airport of 2023 in its size category by the Airports Council International (ACI). This accolade highlights the airport’s excellence in various operational areas and underscores its commitment to sustainability, innovation, operational efficiency, and resilience. Helsinki Airport saw approximately 15.3 million passengers in 2023, making it Finland’s busiest airport. The airport continues to be a central hub for international and domestic travel in Finland.

Sustainability and Innovation
ACI recognized Helsinki Airport’s significant sustainability achievements and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2025. The consolidation of two terminals into a single facility was also acknowledged as a remarkable accomplishment, enhancing both resilience and operational efficiency.

Exceptional Service Quality
In addition to the ACI award, Helsinki Airport received the ASQ (Airport Service Quality) award, naming it Europe’s best airport in its size category. This recognition is based on passenger interviews and assessments, further solidifying the airport’s dedication to exceptional service quality and passenger satisfaction.

Completion of Major Investment Program
The year 2023 marks a significant milestone for Helsinki Airport as Finavia’s billion-euro investment program, initiated a decade ago, nears completion in early autumn. This program has resulted in gradual expansion, service enhancements, and process reforms, transforming Helsinki Airport into an architectural masterpiece that features Finnish design and state-of-the-art services.

Other Airports in Finland:

Rovaniemi Airport
Rovaniemi Airport is the second busiest in Finland, attracting visitors worldwide to see the northern lights and visit Santa Claus Village, located just three kilometers from the airport. The Ounasvaara area offers a ski resort and various nature activities year-round. In 2023, Rovaniemi Airport handled over 735,000 passengers.

Oulu Airport
Located 10.6 km southwest of Oulu city center, Oulu Airport is Finland’s third busiest airport, following Helsinki-Vantaa and Rovaniemi airports. It handles around 10 daily flights to Helsinki and serves as a training base for the Finnish Air Force. Managed by Finavia, the airport has offered free wireless network access since May 2007 and handled 554,096 passengers in 2023.

Top Tourist Spots in Finland

• Northern Lights
  No list of Finland’s tourist spots is complete without mentioning the Northern Lights. Visible from September to March in the Lapland region, the Aurora Borealis is a mystical treat you cannot miss. One of the best ways to experience this mesmerizing phenomenon is to sleep in a glass cottage or hut surrounded by quiet nature.
• Helsinki
  Our list of Finland tourist spots begins with the country’s capital city. With a jaw-dropping view of the waterfront and bays, you can enjoy delicious local cuisine, visit authentic Finnish street fairs, or simply walk down the scenic streets of this beautiful city.
• Santa Claus Village
  Located in Rovaniemi, in the Arctic Circle, Santa Claus Village is among the top Finland tourist spots as it is home to Santa Claus. This quaint village has an enchanting atmosphere perfect for families. Children and adults alike can enjoy a chat with Father Christmas, sip a warm cup of hot chocolate, and explore the snow-bound terrain.
• Lake Saimaa
  This ancient freshwater lake covers an area of 4,500 sq km and is one of the most important natural bio reserve ecosystems in the country. Visitors might even get a chance to see one of the most endangered seal species, the Saimaa ringed seal, during their visit.
• Lemmenjoki National Park
  This national park spans 3,000 sq km and is perfect for those who enjoy scenic hikes through snow-covered greenery and along clear rivers. Lemmenjoki National Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
• Turku
  Situated on the banks of the Aura River, Turku dates back to the 13th century. Notable attractions in this historic city include Turku Castle, Turku Cathedral, and the Turku University Botanical Garden.

Places to visit in Finland:

Suomenlinna

Location: Helsinki, Finland, Europe
Suomenlinna, known as the ‘fortress of Finland,’ spans a cluster of car-free islands connected by bridges. This UNESCO World Heritage site, originally built by the Swedes as Sveaborg in the mid-18th century, is visually striking and historically evocative. Visitors can enjoy at least a day’s worth of diversions, including several museums, bunkers, fortress walls, and Finland’s only remaining WWII submarine. The islands also offer plenty of cafes and picnic spots.

Serlachius Museum Gösta

Location: Finland, Europe
Once the private home of Gösta Serlachius, this world-class art gallery is one of Finland’s premier cultural attractions. Located 2km east of Mänttä’s town center in an exquisitely maintained garden, it comprises two buildings: a spectacular 2014 wooden pavilion designed by Spanish architectural firm MX_SI, showcasing Finnish and international contemporary art exhibitions, and the original 1935 manor housing an excellent collection of Finnish golden-age works and European masterpieces, including works by Claude Monet, Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot, and Camille Pissarro.

Bomarsund Fästningsruin

Location: Finland, Europe
Following the war of 1808–09, Russia began constructing this major military structure as its westernmost defense against the Swedes. The fortress was still incomplete when the Crimean War began in 1854, and a French-British naval force heavily bombarded it from the sea. Within four days, the Russians were forced to surrender it.

Ateneum

Location: Helsinki, Finland, Europe
Housed in a palatial 1887 neo-Renaissance building, Finland’s premier art gallery offers a comprehensive overview of the nation’s art. It features Finnish paintings and sculptures from the ‘golden age’ of the late 19th century through to the 1950s, including works by Albert Edelfelt, Hugo Simberg, Helene Schjerfbeck, Pekka Halonen, and the von Wright brothers. The highlight is Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s triptych from the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, depicting Väinämöinen’s pursuit of the maiden Aino.

Kastelholms Slott

Location: Finland, Europe
One of Åland’s premier sights, this striking 14th-century castle is located on a picturesque inlet (signposted off Rd 2). The keep towers are 15m high in parts, with walls of 3m-thick red granite, showcasing how it once ruled over Åland. Exhibits highlight the castle’s evolution and archaeological finds, including a medieval silver-coin hoard. English-language tours, included in the admission, depart at 2 pm on Saturdays and Sundays from June to early August and last around 45 minutes.

Finland offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether you explore vibrant cities like Helsinki and Turku or enjoy the serene wilderness of Lapland, each visit promises memorable adventures. In summer, the midnight sun illuminates stunning landscapes perfect for outdoor activities, while winter transforms Finland into a magical wonderland where the northern lights dance across the sky, offering activities like husky sledding, skiing, and ice fishing.

The country’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly accommodations and practices. Finnish cuisine, emphasizing local and sustainable ingredients, offers a delightful culinary journey. The travel and tourism market in Finland is poised for significant growth, with increasing revenue projections and a thriving hospitality sector.

Finland’s accolades in various domains, from its top-rated sustainable hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants to its award-winning airports, underscore its global appeal. As you plan your visit, consider the seasonal highlights and diverse attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this unique Nordic country. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Finland welcomes you with open arms and a wealth of opportunities to explore and enjoy.