Helsinki and Rovaniemi: Finland travel tips (with northern lights)
- November 11, 2024
- Matthma
- 3 min
Finland is a very special land that can captivate with its tranquility and mysterious charm.
In just a few days I experienced two completely different souls of this country: Helsinki, the modern capital, and Rovaniemi, in the heart of Lapland. A trip that allowed me to discover how Finland can be both cosmopolitan and wild at the same time.
Helsinki is a city that can be both quiet and lively, where history and innovation go hand in hand. I spent the first three days here, exploring neat streets and savoring the local cuisine. I tried such specialties as“karjalanpiirakka,” a delicious savory rice cake,“lohikeitto,” a rich salmon soup, and several preparations of smoked reindeer-dishes that perfectly tell the story of the connection between Finns and the resources of their land.
The Design District is a stop you can’t miss. It is the creative heart of the city, filled with design stores and art galleries. Interestingly, this district was born after the bombings of World War II, becoming a symbol of Helsinki’s rebirth as a center of innovation.
Another surprising discovery was the Amos Rex Museum. It is a contemporary art museum that is striking not only for its exhibitions but also for its ultra-modern architecture, which seems to take you to another world.
It is really worth a few hours, including engaging installations and innovative artwork.
Rovaniemi: where Lapland shows its magic
After Helsinki I flew to Rovaniemi, where I spent three days immersed in nature and the magical atmosphere of the north. Everyone knows it as the town of Santa Claus, and in winter it really feels like a fairy tale. But this town has much more to offer than just the famous Santa Claus house.
I recommend trying the local cuisine at Ravintola Roka street bistro, one of the best restaurants in town. I tasted a local ham that surprised me with its delicacy and flavor. It is amazing to think that they can raise pigs in such low temperatures, but they have been doing it for generations and the results are excellent. If you want to try something really special, order the reindeer burger: it is a unique dish that combines tradition and innovation with a flavor you won’t forget.
The most exciting moment was undoubtedly the hunt for the Northern Lights. With an experienced guide, we ventured into the woods outside the city, away from artificial lights. Despite the -22 degrees, it was an unforgettable experience. We were lucky enough to see the aurora: green lights dancing in the dark sky, a sight that leaves you speechless.
To close this magical evening, we dined around a fire lit on a frozen lake, under a sky full of stars. Despite the bitter cold, there was something special about being there, in perfect harmony with nature. A midnight dinner like this, with only the sounds of nature and the light of the fire, is an experience I recommend to everyone visiting Lapland.