Heading to Finland this summer? Here’s our pick of things to do on your trip

Finland’s largest rock festival Rockfest is returning this summer and is welcoming thousands of dedicated rock and heavy metal lovers to the heart of Hyvinkää. The third annual edition of the event will take place just 40 minutes north of the Finnish capital Helsinki. Home to everything from historical attractions to modern design districts, national parks, ski resorts and even vantage points for the Northern Lights, Finland has it all! With the event right around the corner, we’ve put together a list of 5 Rad things you can do in Finland during your summer trip to Rockfest! 

1. Swim on a Ski Jump Tower 

Located just under an hour east of Rockfest is the Lahti Ski Jump Tower. The beloved winter attraction transforms into a summer paradise with an open-air swimming pool at the base of the jump tower. The seasonal feature is the only ski jump tower in the world that offers year-round facilities. If you prefer to stay dry, you can still take advantage of the chairlifts and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. For an even greater view, you can find an observation deck at the top of the 380-foot tall structure, offering panoramic views of the city and nature. 

facebooktwitterpinterest Photo credit: Lahden kaupunki

2. Attend a Crazy Competition

Taking place throughout the entire summer in Finland, the locals have found a way to channel their crazy inner competitor. Some of the craziest summer events include the Wife Carrying Championships, the Mobile Phone Throwing Championship, Air Guitar World Championship, Milking Stool Throwing Contest and even the Mosquito Swatting Championship! 

facebooktwitterpinterest Photo credit: Air Guitar World Championships – Ilmakitaransoiton MM-kisat

3. Check out Helsinki Zoo

Opening its doors in 1889, Helsinki Zoo is renowned for being one of the oldest zoos in the world. Sitting on Korkeasaari Island, the 52-acre attraction features more than 150 different species of animals; ranging from native and Nordic to Amazonian, African and more. You can also discover more than 1000 different plant species spread out across the island. The zoo also participates in preserving the natural habitats and original homes of the various species and works toward preserving biodiversity. 

facebooktwitterpinterest Photo credit: Korkeasaaren eläintarha

4. Sleep under the Stars

Tucked away in the northern Finnish village of Saariselkä, the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is quite possibly one of the most iconic hotels in the world. Known for their world famous glass igloos, if you have a couple of days to spare, you definitely don’t want to miss an opportunity to sleep under the stars. Although the aurora season lasts from August – April, you can still enjoy the Arctic at a fraction of the cost; with plenty to see and do. The resort also offers a range of activities such as Midnight Sun Viewing on quad bikes and horse carriages; as well as smoke saunas, gold panning, hiking, river rafting, fishing and more. 

facebooktwitterpinterest Photo credit: Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort

5. Experience a Finnish Sauna

No trip to Finland is complete without an authentic Finnish sauna experience. The inventors of the Sauna pride themselves on the distinctive experience and saunas can be found in just about any building in Finland. For a unique sauna experience, check out Löyly in Helsinki. Located on the edge of the sea, Löyly is known for having one of the best saunas in the world. If you get too hot, you can simply jump into the Baltic right outside to cool off! Löyly also features fireplaces and a restaurant with delicious local cuisine. 

facebooktwitterpinterest Photo credit: Löyly