Finland

Finland is consistently ranked as the world’s happiest country for several reasons, including an accessible outdoorsy lifestyle. Winter offers a chance to catch the magical northern lights, encounter reindeer and learn about Indigenous Sámi culture from their herders, and warm up in one of the nation’s many saunas. During summer’s long, sunny days, take a cold plunge in (or a boat ride on) one of 188,000 lakes or walk and forage for mushrooms and berries in beautifully untouched birch, spruce, and pine forests.

red cabins on a lake island in Finland

Finland has been named the world’s happiest country for the sixth year in a row.

Shutterstock

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to Finland.

READ BEFORE YOU GO
HOTELS
AFAR’s picks for the 31 best new hotels in the world.
Airbnb is giving away a stay at Santa’s home in Finnish Lapland to one lucky family. The only catch? The elves might put you to work in the post office.
It’s easy to see why these ski chalets and mountain cabins are among the highest rated on Airbnb.
RESOURCES TO HELP PLAN YOUR TRIP
Hossa is a forest bather’s dream of pine trees, serene lakes, and saunas.
Nope—it’s not Italy or Australia.
From hot springs to a brewery, here are some of the coolest airport features around.
From pickle juice to hearty stews, these post-drinking cures are here to help.
You’ve never slept under the stars like this.
Stay up past your bedtime for these one-of-a-kind experiences.
Europe has some unique ways of celebrating the spring holiday.
Come one, come all (or just come one).
This Is Proof that Finland Is One of the World’s Most Welcoming Countries
A blind man travels to Helsinki to find out if there’s more to Finland’s sauna culture than meets the eye.