Finland Tourist Attractions

Finland is becoming a more popular family holiday destination for families staying in self catering apartments and holiday cottages. Finland is the Nordic country located in Northern Europe. The Saimaa Lake in Finland is the fifth largest lake in Europe. The lakes are surrounded by beautiful holiday cottages that can be rented direct from the holiday home owners.

Similar to any other Nordic country, Finland also has a temperate climate. Some of the places in Finland experience the sub Arctic climate. Other places in Finland experience a combination of continental and maritime climate. Holidaying in Finland is exciting due to a large number of attractions. The famous mythical residence of Santa Clause and the Korvatunturi Mountain are in Finland. Finland's Savolinna town is famous for the Olavinlinna castle. This was the military castle founded in 1475 by Erik Axelsson Tott. The castle has three towers. The Castle Museum holds the collection of artefacts that were found in the castle. Near to the castle are many holiday homes and cottages all available to rent.

Many tourists come to Finland and stay in a holiday apartment or cottage and use these as a base to explore the local culture. Lovers of nature and wildlife will be pleasantly surprised while visiting Finland. The country has 35 national parks. Punkaharju ridge is another famous spot in Finland. During the winter period Finland provides outstanding opportunities for cross-country skiing. There is also a Santa Claus village in the town of Rovaniemi in Finland this place attracts tourists in large number.

Helsinki is by far the most populous city in Finland. There is a rich culture to be found in Helsinki, starting with the National Museum of Finland. The University of Helsinki also has many museums of worth, including the Natural History Museum and the University Museum.

Most of Finland's castles are situated in the southern part of the country. There was a time in history when Sweden ruled the land and because of the threat of Russian invasion, castles were built around Finland. Olavinlinna castle is situated in the city of Savonlinna and was first built around 1945 and again was built to stop Russian invasion. Today Olavinlinna castle has two museums where religious and historical artefacts are displayed, the huge summertime Opera festival is also held at the castle and it costs just a small fee to enter and tour around the castle.

Turku is another city that has a famous castle; Turku castle has been largely restored and is one of the largest buildings in Finland. Kuusisto castle is mostly in ruins but the history is amazing and it is worth a visit. Lastly Hame castle which was erected in the 14th century offers visitors a complete tour, Hame castle has been lovingly restored and was originally a Royal castle. In the 18th century Hame castle became a prison.