Welcome to Lakeland

There's no scene more Finnish than a cottage by the lake surrounded by an emerald green forest, or a frozen lake with endless possibilities for skiing and skating.

Credits: Vastavalo, Juha Määttä

About Lakeland

Lakeland is where Finns come to recharge and reconnect with nature. The region offers things to do all year round, from cruises to fishing, paddle boarding, ice swimming and skating. And where there's a lake, there's sure to be a cottage. Find one and experience the Finnish way to kick back and relax. After all, as Europe's largest lake district, Lakeland offers plenty of space for all and a special spot just for you.

5 reasons to visit Lakeland

From experiencing authentic Finnish culture and cuisine to the saunas and cottages by the thousands of freshwater lakes; here are the best reasons to visit Finnish Lakeland.

Kick back like the Finns do

Finns are known to have a strong connection to nature and the best work-like balance in the world — and we're more happy to share our secrets! Many Finns escape to Lakeland to truly kick back and relax, and we think you should, too.

Credits: Julia Kivelä

Go for the cottage life

Some call them cottages or cabins, others call them summer houses. No matter what the title is, Lakeland is full of them! Rent a private cottage or stay in a resort, relaxation is guaranteed.

Credits: Alexander Mazurov

Relax in a sauna

If the very essence of Finland were to be summed up in a single experience, it would be the extraordinary sensation that comes from dipping into a chilly lake after a visit to the sauna. You'll feel relaxed like never before! You can find saunas at cottages, hotels, and in cities, like Tampere, where public saunas are widely available. There are even saunas made of ice!

Credits: Laura Vanzo / Visit Tampere

Try a water activity

Finland is known as the land of a thousand lakes and most of them are located in Lakeland. These clean, freshwater lakes provide an excellent opportunity for year-round activities, from kayaking and swimming in the summer to ice-skating and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Credits: Mikko Nikkinen

Experience Finnish culture and charming towns

In Lakeland, you'll find many cultural events in charming towns from the Savonlinna Opera Festival to the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival and everything in between. Lakeland is also a great place to discover charming towns and authentic Finnish cuisine. Try a local delicacy, like karjalanpiirakka or kalakukko. They are a must!

Your local Lakeland source

To discover even more reasons and local tips about traveling to Lakeland and its many regions, go to Visitlakelandfinland.com.

Credits: Ömer Acar

Get to know the region

All of Finland’s four regions are special in their own way. Here are a few things that are unique about this one.

Your guide to a cottage holiday in Finland

A cottage holiday is how Finns do summer – a cabin by the lake, daily sauna and no particular plans. Our complete guide covers where to go, what to expect and how to book your Finnish mökki holiday.

Best food experiences in Finland's Lake Saimaa region

Discover the best food experiences in Finland's Saimaa region: Michelin-level lakeside dining, vendace fishing, wild foraging and Karelian feasts.

What to eat in Finland – guide to iconic Finnish foods

Taste the best of Finland with these must-try foods from rye bread and salmon soup to summer potatoes, reindeer stew, and truly unique local delicacies.

Must-experience saunas in Lakeland

Relax and unwind at some of the most unique and spectacular must-experience saunas in Finnish Lakeland.

Classic Finnish restaurants you should visit

Taste authentic Finnish cuisine at historic local restaurants and bistros across Finland from Helsinki to Lakeland and the coast. These classics serve tradition on a plate.

Family holiday in Finland: everything you need to know

Planning a family trip to Finland? From what to pack for winter to sauna tips for kids, nature activities and travel costs – here's everything families need to know.

Top five things to do during summer in Lakeland

Discover five unique things to experience during summertime in Lakeland and plan your visit to Finland.

Guide to Alvar Aalto's architecture in Finland

Explore Alvar Aalto’s architecture in Finland, from Helsinki to Rovaniemi. Visit his iconic works and discover why he is one of the world’s most influential modern architects.

Discovering Finnish landscape: Koli

Learn what to do and see in Koli, a place Finns love to visit for its beautiful landscapes.

13 best things to do around Lakeland

Deep-dive into Finnish history in Lakeland

Family-friendly destinations in Lakeland

Explore Lakeland by bike

Tour Lakeland's UNESCO World Heritage sites

Find your inner sports enthuasiast in Lakeland

Lakeland destinations

Here's a look at some of the most interesting towns and destinations around the Lakeland area.

Things to do in Lakeland

View all things to do in Lakeland

Inspiration for your visit

View all routes

Here are a few selected routes through Lakeland with suggestions for what to see, eat and do. When you find something you like, click the heart icon to save it.