Finland

Known for fine landscapes, functional architecture and taciturn people, Finland is a country that attracts travelers from far away places. This large and clean country is proud of some great wilderness, friendly people and an interesting culture. No matter which part of Finland you might prefer to visit, you will always find a vibrant, friendly country of sophistication, fascinating history and unspoiled natural beauty. From the spectacular archipelago in the south to exotic Lapland in the north, there are so many things to explore and discover that one trip is not enough.

Finland has many historic towns, however, the best ones to visit are Turku, which is the oldest city in Finland, Porvoo, Rauma, Hamina, Naantah and Hanko. Helsinki, the sophisticated and charming capital of the nation faces the Gulf of Finland. The versatility of this city is such that it was one of Europe's Cities of Culture in the year 2000. It features the best of both the worlds - eastern and western cultures. Apart from Kiasma, the national museum of contemporary art located in Helsinki, other museums that are worth a visit are Ateneum and Retretti, Seurasaari, Luostarinmaki, Arktikum and Saamelaismuseo. There are some magnificent Castles and Manor Houses, of which the greatest and best preserved medieval castle is Olavinlinna, located in Savonlinna.

Often known as “the land of thousands of lakes” or “the land of the midnight sun”, Finland is a big country which shares borders with Sweden to the west, Russia to the east and Norway to the north, while it southern part is bordered with Estonia. The country's cold but temperate climate is just perfect to come to this beautiful place during any time of the year.  Finnish food has some Swedish and Russian influences and there are some dishes such as snow grouse, reindeer stew, glowfired salmon or raw pickled salmon that are worth tasting.