Beach holidays in Finland in summer. Finland in summer. Capital service for any choice: for nudists, families with children and vacationers with pets

Since childhood, every person has firmly associated the country of Suomi with the patrimony of Santa Claus, northern lights, polar night and ski resorts. Upon closer examination, it suddenly turns out that a beach holiday is not the delirium of a tourist overheated in the local hot sauna, and if you wish, you can enjoy the sun even on the shores of the northern seas and lakes.

Where to go to sunbathe?

In a country where the number of bodies of water amounts to thousands, there is always a place for leisurely recreation in nature, especially since rushing is not at all in the tradition of hot Finnish guys:

• In the vicinity of the Finnish capital there are about thirty sandy beaches, the most popular of which is Hietaniemi. Visitors have access to changing rooms and a cafe, sun loungers and umbrellas.
• On the island of Suomenlinna you can swim and sunbathe on several beaches. Along the way, you will be able to take a fascinating excursion to the local fortress. And getting here won’t be difficult: a passenger ferry departs from the pier every quarter of an hour to the island.
• A bus from the center of Pori will take everyone thirsty for sun and sea to the golden sands of Yyteri. In addition to lazy relaxation, active recreation also flourishes on Yyteri - playing volleyball, golf and surfing. Part of the beach legally belongs to lovers of complete fusion with nature - nudists.
• Fishing flourishes on the Alan Islands. Everyone fishes here, from young to old, and in between meditations they swim and sunbathe in the rocky coves with a fishing rod.

Weather features of a beach holiday in Finland

Moderate transitional climate from maritime to continental Suomi and warm sea ​​currents provide fairly warm summer weather, despite the northern coordinates of Finnish beaches.
At the height of the swimming season, the air temperature may well rise to +28°C, but the norm in July and early August is more likely to be the usual +25°C in the south of the country.

In the metropolitan area

About three dozen metropolitan beaches offer recreation for every taste. In addition to the aforementioned Hietaniemi, in Helsinki you can take a dip in cool water after a hot sauna on Rastila Beach, where it is customary to stay at a tent camp. Marjaniemi Beach will especially appeal to those with a sweet tooth: the local ice cream parlor offers many types of the popular summer dessert. Vuosaari Beach is ideal for active and sporty people, where there is an excellent gym right on the sand, and healthy food is served in the restaurant overlooking the port. Kids and their parents prefer Mustikkamaa Beach, located near the Helsinki Zoo. Nudists gather at Pihlajäsaari, a few kilometers from the city center.

Golden Sands of Yyyteri

The Finns consider the beach 16 km west of the city center of Pori to be a unique natural masterpiece. Corner of the pristine northern nature on the shores of the Baltic Gulf of Bothnia is a six-kilometer long beach covered with fine golden sand.
Beach holiday in Finland on Yyteri - this means enjoying the picturesque seascape, horseback riding among high dunes covered with pine trees, and various water activities - from sailing to jet ski racing.
Surfers respect Yyyteri for its flat and smooth bottom and excellent waves, allowing them to enjoy the wind and salty sea ​​air.

Riviera of Suomi country

The Kalajoki resort area on the Gulf of Bothnia is called the Finnish Riviera. There are many clean beaches here, each of which is filled to capacity during the swimming season. In addition to the typical beach infrastructure, tourists are offered water parks and spas, saunas and health complexes, restaurants and nightclubs. Hotels in this resort area are cottage complexes, which, judging by the reviews, are in great demand among both local residents and foreign travelers.

Helpful information

There are rules of behavior on the beaches of Finland that should be followed to avoid problems with the law:

• It is not allowed to have picnics or set up tents outside specially equipped areas or campsites.
• You cannot leave trash or start a fire.
• It is strictly forbidden to bring or drink alcohol.

Finland is one of the countries that can boast the most clean water, and therefore any violations in recreation areas are punishable by high fines and serious administrative liability.

Many people associate the word “vacation” with the sea and warmth. But such a holiday also has its drawbacks - for example, a huge number of tourists in popular destinations. Fortunately, there are quieter and even more interesting places. Let's try to figure out what a trip to close, but still unusual Finland can amaze a traveler with.

Getting to know Northern Europe

It will be useful for novice tourists to know some of the “baseline data” of this northern country. Let's start with geography.

Where is Finland

It borders only four countries - Sweden, Norway, Estonia and Russia (in the east).

From the west and south it is washed by the Baltic Sea, as well as the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland.

About a quarter of the territory is located beyond the Arctic Circle. If you look at the map, it turns out that the country is stretched from north to south. This is true: between extreme points lies 1030 km, while the length from east to west is half that.

This is a land of thousands of islands and lakes: the surface of the water occupies 8% of the territory, and there are almost 180 thousand islands. The area is wooded and rugged, but this does not deter visitors - there is a lot to see in Suomi (as the Finns call their country).

How to get there from Moscow

The fastest way to Helsinki is by Aeroflot airliners, running daily from Sheremetyevo. 150 euros, about 2 hours in the air - and you are in Vantaa (20 km from the center of the Finnish capital).

There is also a more budget option: flights from Finn Air (80 euros) starting in Domodedovo. But you will have to pay for the savings in time - in St. Petersburg Pulkovo there is a transfer, so the entire transfer will take about 11–12 hours.

The only way to reach remote corners of Finland is by ferry. This exotic costs 50–55 euros per trip.

You can also choose land options. Thus, the branded train “Lev Tolstoy” runs from Leningradsky Station. Departing Moscow at 22:50, it passes through St. Petersburg (06:02) and arrives in Helsinki at 12:00 the next day (with a slight adjustment for customs clearance). The asking price is 100 euros for a seat in a compartment and 145 for a suite.

If you don't have tickets, you can go by bus. Most often, the cost ranges from 6,000–8,000 rubles. True, this is an option for the most persistent - the journey will take at least 20 hours, and many companies practice transfers during the flight (plus there may be queues at customs).

Popular holiday destinations

Tours to neighboring Finland are usually associated with the following locations:

• Helsinki with its architecture and beaches;
• cozy Tampere (local lakes are especially popular);
• Turku;
• Porvoo;
• Lapland (with its center in Rovaniemi);
• Vantaa.

Beach lovers will enjoy:

• Åland Islands;
• Lappeenranta;
• Pori.

Those who want to improve their health a little will like thermal resorts, among which Vuokatti and Naantali hold the lead.

And of course ski centers with routes for every taste. There are more than 80 of them throughout the country, but in terms of price-service-difficulty of trails the best are considered to be:

• Kuopio;
• Kuusamo-Ruka;
• Tahko;
• Hasa;
• Ellivuori.

Planning active winter holidays, keep in mind that in Finland, places at the most popular resorts have been booked since the summer. If the moment, as they say, is missed, it doesn’t matter: tour operators will select another place that will also be at the same level (the service in Suomi is rightfully considered one of the best in the world).

Finland and the weather (winter and summer)

Even before contacting a travel agency, think about whether the climate there is suitable for you (after all, it differs from the “warm” resorts familiar to our fellow citizens).

In water

The best months for water recreation are summer. But be prepared that even in a shallow lake the water will be cool: in August its average temperature reaches +15...+16 °C (+17 °C is already rare, and such figures are recorded on the coast of Imatra and Lahti). In this regard, June is preferable, when the sea can warm up to +19 °C.

If we take population density, then according to this indicator the country is considered the least populated state in Europe.

In early September swimming season ends: already at its beginning the water does not heat up above +12 °C, by the middle of the month it cools down to +8...+9 °C. The same numbers are recorded in May, so an early opening of the swimming season is not for Suomi.

On air

Among novice tourists, the Finnish climate is considered harsh, although experienced people and meteorologists correct them - yes, it is cool and moderate, but heat still reaches here from the Atlantic. On the other hand, if you go north, you can see the real polar night, which lasts 1.5–2 months.

The average daytime temperature in “ski” February ranges from –6 °C in the south to –14…–15 °C in Lapland. During the day, the thermometer can even show -2 °C, but by night it gets colder. There is little precipitation - from 25 to 40 mm per month, which makes the end of winter ideal for active rest.

The same indicators (but already in July): +14...+17 °C with a comfortable +20...+22 °C during the day and a night minimum of +9 °C. Although this is still rare - usually by morning you can see +13...+15 °C.

Let us note that the Finns consider the June heat to be quite acceptable +25 °C (but there are no more than 5–7 such days even in the south of the country).

Don't forget to take an umbrella: the local climate and regular precipitation have long been synonymous.

Beach holidays in Finland

Holidays in summer Finland attract with its beaches, most of which are ideal for family relaxation. It’s simply unrealistic to cover everything, but tours almost always include such coastal sites as:

• Hietaniemi. Convenient location (almost the center of Helsinki) and an extensive cultural program made it a top destination among visitors. But this also turned out to be a disadvantage - there are a lot of people here.
• Lake beaches in Tampere. There are about 200 lakes here, and all of them have a gentle entrance, which, coupled with their shallow depth, attracts families with small children.
• Myllysaari (Laapenraata) with access to the clean Saimaa Lake.
• Rocky beaches on the Åland Islands, the most popular of which are Degersand, Sandviken and Karingsand.
• Beaches at Cape Yuteri near the city of Pori. This strip takes up several kilometers, and even a toddler can enter the fairly warm water - the shore is flat and the bottom is smooth.
• Active tourists recommend the coast in the Hanko area. But this is not an acquired taste - the long (about 130 km) coastal strip is densely dotted with sand dunes.

A nice thing: in Finland, all municipal beaches are free. Those who are going there for the first time should remember that you can only pitch tents and have picnics in coastal campsites. Naturally, you cannot drink strong drinks or litter on the beaches - the police react quickly and fine you for such offenses without much regret.

When buying health insurance, it is better to contact a trusted company - the paper purchased at the office “around the corner” may turn out to be nothing more than a “dummy” that will allow you to cross the border, but will not provide any benefit if necessary.

June-July is best suited for such visits, while in August a noticeable cooling occurs in some regions.

Leisure

Finland can please everyone - from a fisherman to an experienced extreme sports enthusiast. And the time of year does not play a special role.

The snowy country has given the world many famous athletes. The championship, of course, belongs to hockey players and skiers, but there are also many legendary racers among the Finns. For example, Mika Hakkinen twice (in 1998 and 1999) became world champion in Formula 1. Keio Rosberg (1982) and the current competitor Kimi Raikonen (2007) were noted in the same class once each.

In summer

Among the traditional Finnish entertainments, “summer” tourists usually choose:

• Canoe or kayak trips. The whole country is dotted with rental centers, but it is better to choose a simple route along national parks Repovesi or Koli. Although the landscapes in the vicinity of Laapenranta are also strikingly beautiful. If you are a beginner, take care of the instructor, remembering to be careful: a small stone may turn out to be a boulder, and this is already dangerous.
• Cycling routes. For the average tourist, a 5-kilometer trail like the Fox Trail near Kouvola is also suitable. For people with training, longer tours are offered (up to a trip around the Turku archipelago - 250 km of difficult roads take up to a week).
• Rope parks, among which Atreenalin in Laappennraat stands out. Height difference - from 1.5 to 22 m.
• The more determined ones head to Imatra, where every summer you can fly over a rock canyon and waterfall. There are a lot of impressions, especially since you have to fly... upside down. But there are also nuances, such as the need to make a “reservation” (there are many people willing, but the road opens only at 7 pm).
• You can look for caches (this sport is called geocaching). The routes are laid out so that tourists can photograph the most secluded corners. Almost all national parks provide such services.
• Floating. There are “points” in Imatra or Fluoks where you can put on a special suit (only your face remains open), go into the cold lake water and soar over its surface for an hour. The extreme factor is added by the fact that there is no capsule, and the “flight” speed reaches 20–25 km/h.

All these entertainments have one thing in common - the need to follow instructions and soberly calculate your strength so as not to spoil your vacation.

in winter

In winter, Finland, covered with snow, is even more spectacular and hospitable, including for thrill-seekers.

The first thing that comes to mind is ski runs and descents. Hasa, Kuopio, Dachshund and other mountains ski resorts have everything necessary for such a sport.

When preparing to master skiing, pay attention to the rigidity of special boots. For beginners, this index should be 7–8 units (for those with more endurance - up to 10).

Pros are attracted to the most difficult (“black”) slopes, while beginner extreme sports enthusiasts will have enough safe descents on the hills of Pagliaki or Ellivuori, Pagliakki or Saariselka. All such resorts have courses for children, and the pleasure is quite inexpensive.

Keep in mind that in winter the ski resorts in Finland are densely populated with tourists from different levels preparation. Therefore, when going downhill or just skiing, look around.

But the tourist does not live by skis alone.

The first settlements on the territory of modern Finland date back to 8500 BC. e.

There is something to do for lovers of other types of recreation:

• Avid fishermen should definitely visit the Åland Islands or Imatra. A separate topic is sea fishing (although it depends on the weather on a particular day).
• A family snowshoe walk will also provide a lot of impressions.
  Having put on these “bast shoes”, you will not fall through even a 2-meter layer of snow, and a trip to the nearest forest will remain in your memory for the rest of your life.
• Husky or reindeer riding. While elk are not found everywhere, sled dogs are found in almost every tenth household.
  Trying to steer a team, you will get a lot of impressions. But it’s better not to let children take the reins.
• For lovers of color, spending the night in an igloo on the outskirts of the village is suitable - there are a lot of such buildings there.
• More serious adventure can be found near the coastal town of Kemi. You will be taken for a ride on a real icebreaker, and at the end of the excursion you will be allowed to plunge into an ice hole (after putting you in a suit).
• Let’s not forget about the legendary saunas with the obligatory jogging in the snow and diving into the same ice hole. But don’t rush to impress the Finns - if you have cardiovascular problems, then you should definitely avoid swimming.

Attractions and best places

In addition to action-style relaxation, there are a huge number of places in Suomi that are worth seeing. There are many locations, but the “way sheets” of almost all tours necessarily contain such items as:

• Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi). This is a real Lapland fairy tale - the residence of the wizard and the general surroundings of the village immerse everyone in a festive atmosphere. You can spend the night at the Arctic Hotel, built... out of ice! By the way, there is also the Arktikum Museum with observation deck, overlooking the Ounasjoki River.
• Lake Inari. Imagine 3,000 islands, the bays between them filled with blue and green water. The country's largest body of water is surrounded by pristine forests, where you can wander freely and pick berries. It is better to go here in the summer (the fact is that the surface of the lake is covered with ice for half the year).
• Saima is not inferior to it in size. The lake near Imatra boasts the Olavinlinna fortress, which stands on one of the islands. It began to be built in 1475, and now it is open all year round.
• Turku Cathedral, completed in 1300 and completely restored after a fire.
  It is famous for its interior, which is strikingly different from the strict church setting.
• Moominland (Naantali 15 km from Turku). Once here, children will be delighted. Of course, in the Moomin settlement you can freely enter their houses and communicate with these characters.

Trying to get into the leisurely rhythm of Finnish life, do not lose your vigilance in places where tourists gather. Thieves of all stripes love such “dots” (unfortunately, our compatriots are also among them).

• Rapids of Imatrankoski near Imatra. Every summer day at 18:00 a 20-minute show starts here - the release of water from the dam. Huge masses fall from a height of 18 m to the music of Finnish composers.



• Pyyuniki Park with lakes and steep slopes.
  Be sure to visit the summer theater - its hall rotates, offering a stunning view of the surrounding area. There is an observatory nearby, entrance to which costs 8 euros.
• Mini-restaurant in Iisalma. Imagine - a hall with an area of ​​3.6 square meters. m! Furniture includes a counter, a table and two chairs. You can get into the miniature establishment only by appointment - it is only open in the summer, and seats must be reserved.
• Sapokka Park (Kotka). The waterfall, streams and numerous paths surrounded by centuries-old greenery are worth visiting this place. Moreover, this area is officially recognized as the most environmentally friendly park on the planet.

However, you can see the architectural (and other) symbols of Finland without even leaving Helsinki. The capital is literally replete with interesting things, of which the following stand out:

• Sveaborg Fortress built in 1748. It was once a defensive line of the city, which has now been turned into a museum complex. But even without museums there is something to see here - the stone walls along the coast impress everyone.
• Senate square. A strict but sophisticated location led by Cathedral. It is no coincidence that the monument to Alexander II is here - architectural ensemble took shape when Finland was part of the Russian Empire.
• Esplanade Park, which has become the center of cultural and informal life of the city. Its symbol is a sculpture of a nymph, which, after its installation at the beginning of the last century, caused indignation among the local population (the reason for this was the nudity).
• Sibelius trumpets. The monument in the form of 600 empty pipes resembles an organ, but in reality it is a pure abstraction, pleasing the eyes of townspeople for 50 years.

Jean Sibelius was noted not only for his grandiose contribution to the musical art of his country - the composer was among the founders of one of the Masonic lodges in Helsinki.

• Kauppatori (Market Square), where you can buy souvenirs and plunge into the atmosphere of the “good old days”. On weekdays it is quiet here, but on weekends everything changes - trade is literally in full swing, and Finns sometimes demonstrate a far from northern temperament.



• You can hide from the bustle of the world for a while in Temppeliakio. The church is carved into the rock. The stone walls have not yet been processed (but the temple was opened in 1969). The appearance is completed by 180 (!) windows and an organ.
• Winter Garden. A stunning greenhouse that welcomed its first visitors over 100 years ago. The entrance is free.
• Seurasaari Island. This is both a green area and a museum under open air. It is also known for the abundance of squirrels, which are not at all afraid of people, willingly accepting treats and posing for photos.
• A design museum that began its work even before design became a separate art form.
  Here you can find a lot of old, funny, unusual and just strange things collected from all over the country.
• Andersen and Athenaeum Art Museums. While the first specializes in local art of the 20th century, the second (together with the Kashima Center) covers the entire history of Finnish painting and sculpture.
• A zoo that amazes everyone with its inhabitants: native species coexist with exotic southern breeds. From the same series is the Sea Life marine park, where behind thick glass you can see not only schools of colorful fish, but also a natural shark.

Intercity carrier ExpressBus offers weekly passes for 150 euros. For an active tourist, this is a direct saving (a single ticket from Helsinki to Turku would cost 25).

• Waterpark "Serena". This is the largest establishment of its kind in all of Northern Europe. Part of the room is carved into the rock, which adds color. There are all kinds of water attractions here, and in the summer there is an open area.

As you understand, there is a lot to see (and these are just the “best” places).

Nightlife in northern Europe

In the unhurried rhythm of life of the Finns, there was also a place for nightclubs.

Judging by the reviews, the top 5 such establishments in Helsinki include:

• Ahjo (Vulevardi St., 2). Leading European DJs often work here. The interior is also up to standard - the club is part of an old hotel.
• We Got Beef (Iso Roobertinkatu str., 21) is designed for informal people, skate fans and simply creative individuals. The settings and track list are appropriate.
• Kaarle XII (Kasarmikatu str., 40) in a medieval setting. Wide oak tables will withstand any dancing - they are not prohibited here. True, in terms of music, this location is more suitable for those who are a little over 30: the set list is left to the Eurodance style.
• Navy Jerrys (Hietaniemenkatu str. 2), reminiscent of the old one a cruise ship. A paradise for lovers of cocktails and bright shirts.
• Kaivohuone (1 Iso Puistotie street). Strictly speaking, this is not even night club in the modern sense, but a place of communication for the metropolitan elite. The establishment was opened 180 years ago and has several rooms.

It may seem sparse, but you can have a blast in small clubs, of which there are quite a few here (but their repertoire and atmosphere are close to the “standard”).

In 1952, the country hosted the Olympic Games. It is noteworthy that they were the debut for the Soviet team.

And there are themed cafes at every step here - from the music lover Hard Rock Café to the Siltanen bar, which is favored by hipsters. There is nothing to say about pubs - there are countless of them here.

Food, accommodation and travel in Finland

Regardless of when you have planned your vacation - in summer or winter, it is worth thinking about the purely everyday nuances of staying in Finland in advance, even before visiting a travel agency. And the first step will be choosing a home.

Where to stay

When choosing a route, inquire about the availability of rooms in a hotel or hostel - during peak months (February, June, July) it will be problematic to find accommodation for the night directly “on site”.

Prices will vary depending on the city, location and, of course, type of settlement:

In summer you can find bike rental shops all over the country. Convenient: by paying 2–3 euros as a deposit, you get your own (albeit two-wheeled) transport, which costs only 10–15 euros per day.

And remember about simple rule for all budget tourists: the earlier you book, the cheaper it will be. And chain hostels often organize various promotions that you can “catch” on the Internet long before your trip.

Car rent

In an effort to see as much as possible, visitors often rent a car.

To get behind the wheel of a rental car in Suomi, you need to have:

• international driving license with an open category;
• at least one year of driving experience;
• credit card (part of the money from it is blocked as a deposit).

Many companies will provide a car if you are over 18 years of age (although many are more strict in this regard, trusting only people over 21).

The minimum rental period is 1 day. If the goal is to get to the other end of the country and leave the car there, then you will also have to pay for its transportation to the base, with an increase in gasoline.

There are plenty of rental companies here: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget and many smaller companies. If the car was booked with prepayment, then all that remains is to pay the remaining amount.

Prices differ depending on the class: a small hatchback will cost about 75–80 euros, while a solid BMW will cost at least 120 euros.

Please note that the price per day is fixed, and if you return the car after half a day or 15 hours, you will not receive the remainder.

Where to have breakfast, dinner, lunch

Let’s make a reservation right away: prices in Helsinki, with some degree of relativity, can be considered average for the country (not as expensive as in Lapland, but a little more expensive than in the villages).

The coldest day in the history of weather observations was January 28, 1999, when residents of the polar village of Kittilä saw an impressive -51 ° C on their thermometers.

We will focus on them.

Once in the Finnish capital in the morning, experienced tourists try to visit the following bars and cafes:

• Ciao! at Senate Square. An Americano here costs 2.3 euros, an espresso is even cheaper - 1.7. Focaccia and ciabatta as a bite will cost 5 euros.
• Roberts Coffee. This is a chain of cafes where you can get coffee and a croissant for 5 euros.
• Ursula overlooking the bay. You have to pay for the atmosphere - a salad is no cheaper than 12.5 euros.
• Сafé Ekberg, which has been operating for 165 years. For 3.30 you can buy a delicious Napoleon there. Although it is not always possible to get there - tourists have heard a lot about this place.

For an inexpensive lunch, chain spots are suitable - SFC, Golden Rax or Unicafe Ylioppilasauko near the station. A complex portion costs on average about 8–10 euros.

The best place for a hearty dinner with local flavor would be any cafe on Kauppatori Square. Traditional cream soup is usually priced at 7-8 euros.

Ravintola Lasipaplatsi is suitable for gourmets. The modest interior is somewhat at odds with the prices (roast - 30 euros, dessert - 10), but the portions are large, and the dishes are made according to traditional recipes.

Shopping places

Trying to bring something original, many people start shopping from the markets of Helsinki. They have their own specifics:

• Kauppatori (Market Square) is famous for its herring;
• Valtteri and Hietalahti are flea markets, but the second one is more focused on quite expensive antiques;

The beginning of sales is signaled by signs with the inscriptions “Ale” or “Allenus”, which are hung on the doors of stores.

• Hakaniemi Indoor Market will be best place for those who want to buy a Finnish souvenir or just an unusual magnet.

As for large shopping centers, the following stores stand out among them:

• Antilla;
• Biltema
• Forum;
• Hobby Hall;
• Jumbo;
• Kamppi;
• KappAhl;
• Lindex;
• Sokos;
• Stockmann.

They contain almost everything - from food and household items to exquisite outfits.

The discounts here are purely seasonal. Everyone knows about traditional Christmas (after December 25), but there is another period when tourists can save big. This is the end of June - beginning of August, when the “reset” can reach a significant 60–70%.

And one moment. If the purchase is tax-free, then upon presentation of the receipt and unpacked goods at customs you can return part of the money (10% for products and 12–16% for manufactured goods). This amount will be returned at the airport or VAT refund point.

But there are also some nuances. For example, you can get such a discount when purchasing a product priced over 40 euros. In addition, this benefit does not apply to printed materials and cigarettes.

Features of rest: how to avoid problems

A law-abiding tourist in Suomi has nothing to fear. Problems can only be caused by ignorance of all the intricacies of crossing the border.

So you're getting ready for your trip. Make sure that:

• Visa and travel health insurance are available. The procedure for obtaining a visa is typical for Schengen.
• The cost of collected items does not exceed 430 euros.
• In terms of money: you can import up to 1,500 euros without a declaration.
• You have taken the legal limit of alcohol. This is where many of our compatriots are cut off. Let us recall the maximum standards. Young people 18–20 years old cannot import drinks stronger than 22 revolutions (before this age, the import of alcohol is prohibited).
  Those who are older can take up to 2 liters of such products or 1 liter of stronger liquids plus up to 16 liters of beer. Alcohol is prohibited (like anything stronger than 80 degrees).
• The same story applies to tobacco - up to 250 g of such raw material, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars (regardless of age).
• Calculate the doses of products. The duty-free maximum includes up to 100 g of tea, 125 g of caviar, 0.5 coffee. Eggs, honey and seafood - up to 2 kg. Potatoes and meat and dairy products are prohibited (as are the raw materials for them).

30% of the country's territory is occupied by swamps.

After you have rested and stocked up on hotels, keep in mind that when leaving Finland you can take no more than 3 liters of alcohol (tobacco standards remain the same). The limit on purchased goods is $1500 or 50 kg of weight. If it is exceeded, a duty of 30% of the cost is paid on the “excess”.

Antiques must have a certificate for export (by the way, fresh fish also needs a similar document).

And the final touch - you can import finished products into the Russian Federation in whole packages, but not more than 5 kg.

Now you know almost everything that gives novice travelers an idea about tourism in Finland. We hope such a trip will bring only positive and pleasant impressions. More new discoveries!

If they tell you that in Finland there is no sea ​​holiday, believe. In principle, it is not customary to come here for a brown tan and white sand. For this there are Spain, Greece and Bulgaria. You are unlikely to buy a special tour to Finland with a vacation at sea. But pay attention - there are beaches here. Including sea ones. And they rest on them.

Holidays on the beaches of Finland are designed for tourists who prefer a mild climate without aggressive sun and frankly cool water. Beach season lasts from June to September. People mostly sunbathe here, although many take the risk of swimming.

There are 300 beaches in Finland. Of these, 29 are located in and 4 are located on the banks of the Vantaa River. Crowds of tourists and Finns themselves flock here to the capital's beaches every year. All places designated for swimming are thoroughly checked for compliance with European standards and regulations and are distinguished by accuracy.

Hietaniemi Beach is located in the center of Helsinki. It's worth a visit for many reasons. Firstly, it's easy to get here by car. public transport, on foot or by bike. Secondly, concerts are regularly held here for vacationers. In the evenings, picnics are organized on Hietaniemi, a bar with an outdoor terrace is open all summer, and there are all conditions for playing volleyball and football.

Best vacation on the Finnish sea near Pori, on Cape Yuteri. Sandy beaches stretch for several kilometers, the seabed here is flat and smooth. Fans of active recreation will also find something to their liking: beach volleyball, surfing and others aquatic species sports Towards the end of summer, the sea water warms up to + 20°C. There is even surfing here, and beginner surfers are given lessons here. In summer, surfers, both professionals and beginners, can be found on the beach.

The beaches of the Åland Islands are more rocky and partly wooded. This archipelago has more than 6,500 islands, the largest cluster in the world. True, they live here only on 60 islands. The best among these beaches are Karingsand, Sandviken and Degersand. On the western side of the beach there are several beautiful old villages.

Hanko Beach near the village of Hanko in Uusimaa has 130 km of coastline with beautiful sand dunes and is ideal for windsurfing.

Built between two lakes, Näsijärvi in ​​the north and Pyhäjärvi in ​​the south, the beaches of Tampere are popular in summer. They are shallow and receive a lot of shade from the forest.

The most popular public beach in Lappeenranta is Myllysaari Beach and the clear waters of Saimaa. The Myllysaari coastal sauna is located nearby.

Municipal beaches in Finland are free to visit. During the swimming season, on each beach, a special stand provides information about the sanitary condition and water temperature. It is prohibited to bring or drink alcoholic beverages on the beaches. It is not customary to have picnics. You cannot put up tents; there are campsites or specially designated areas for this. Garbage must be placed in special containers.

Snow-white houses, restaurants, cafes along the embankment: it seems that you are not in the capital of Suomi, but in a Mediterranean resort. Warm and soft sand, picturesque landscapes– an excellent place for active (with sports games, for example) or leisurely relaxation.

st. Utelantie, 10 min. walk from Vuosaari metro station

Perhaps the most popular beach in the city. It’s easy to get to because it’s located almost in the city center. Volleyball and mini-golf, music, a nice cafe, changing cabins, a store with beach props and even swimsuits, playground for children - all conditions have been created for those who want to bask in the sun or swim. It is only worth noting that due to large quantity vacationers, the beach is not the cleanest.

st. Hiekkarannantie

It is located near the capital's zoo, so after visiting the animals, you can go here with peace of mind. By the way, they not only swim and sunbathe here: they even barbecue. The place is quite quiet. Vacationers can sit on the sand, rocks or grass, watching the sailboats sail by. Some play beach volleyball, if you wish, of course, you can join. To get to the beach, you can take bus number 16 from Kulosaari metro station.

st. Mustikkamaapolku 2

Popular place among families who go here for a picnic. Swimming, sunbathing, steaming in a sauna, having lunch in a restaurant - all this can be done here. If you want to relax on the islands, a small ferry from the Kaivopuisto pier will take you here in three minutes.

Created for solitude with nature within the city. Clean air, swans, typical Finnish gardening plots from the beginning of the last century all around, calm and peaceful. The cafe on site sells delicious ice cream, which is so refreshing in the summer heat. In addition, the establishment keeps cute and fluffy rabbits. There is also a path where visitors can see outdoor art. The beach is located a 15-minute walk from the Kulosaari metro station.

Kivinokan ulkoilupuisto

People come here not only to touch the history of the fortress and see it with their own eyes. Many people purposefully spend their holidays here, basking on the rocks and swimming. You can often see companies having a picnic. If you forgot food, then this is not a problem: there are restaurants and cafes, and a brewery on site. Ferries to Suomenlinna leave every 40 minutes from the Market Square (Kauppatori).

Beautiful place, where it is pleasant to spend a fine summer day. Here they cook barbecues, bask in the sun, play all kinds of games, ride wakeboards or just sunbathe on the warm sand. A ferry runs from Kaivopuisto pier to the island.

Photo: vihreatsylit.fi, plus.google.com, en.wikipedia.org, luminoucity.net, helsinki.cityseekr.com, wisnar.cz

Residents northern countries and the regions really lack sea and warmth. 11 months a year we look forward to summer, dreaming of the opportunity to go to the sea. And the sea is very close, just as salty, endless, caressing and calming, with incredible views and fabulous beauty in places. Welcome to the Finnish seaside!

Photo: VisitFinland.com. Yyteri Beach

The Baltic Sea may not immediately come to mind in summer dreams, but believe me, this northern sea can surprise and give unforgettable experience from a summer holiday on the coast. Moreover, it is so easy to get to it, even for a short weekend vacation, and have a small picnic on the shore, bask on the hot stones or soak up the white sand.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

So let's dream a little about summer and imagine the perfect seaside holiday in Finland.

1. COTTAGE BY THE SEA

The coast of the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea is literally strewn with beautiful, cozy cottages and dachas. Some of them are rented out to tourists. This is surprising, but for many Finland is associated with lakes, but the Finns themselves love their sea with all their hearts and every summer they try to spend a short vacation on the coast, or at least have a picnic on the shore several times during the summer.

Photo: VisitFinland.com. Island KLOVHARUN.

This small hut on the island of Klovharun - secret place Tove Jansson, the famous Finnish writer and creator of the Moomin fairy tales. Here she hid for the summer, on a stone island in the middle of the sea, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Here was everything she needed to inspire her. The island is currently open to tourists for a very long time. a short time in the summer due to weather conditions, bird nesting season, and also because this place is reserved most of the time by artists as a residence for inspiration.

COTTAGES ON THE COAST OF THE GULF OF FINNISH AND THE BALTIC SEA IN FINLAND:

2. BEACHES ON THE COAST OF FINLAND

The sea coast stretches along Finland for many hundreds of kilometers. There must be great beaches, is not it? That's right! And there are beaches for every taste.

Want to stone, harsh, northern beaches that warm up under the rays of the sun and where it is so pleasant to warm up after a swim? Please, there are a huge number of such beaches in the eastern part of Finland and the Gulf of Finland.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

Do you want clean ones? sandy beaches with a gentle entrance into the water? Beaches surrounded by pine forests? Please, starting from the city of Hanko and further west, the Baltic Sea coast in many places turns into long strips of sand and dunes. Even the city of Helsinki has some great sandy beaches for sea lovers.

Photo: VisitFinland.com. (c)_Jussi_Hellsten

3. ISLANDS, ISLANDS, ISLANDS...

The Finnish coastline boasts the largest archipelago in the world. According to some estimates, there are about 70,000 islands in Finland. There are so many islands here! There are islands inhabited and completely wild, stone without a single tree, or islands with lush forests. Islands favored by seals or birds. Islands that people have chosen and set up small campsites, restaurants and recreation areas on them. There are islands that can be reached by ferry, and there are islands that can only be reached by boat. Are there such amazing islands, How .

So you can relax on the islands not only in the Maldives, but also in Finland! Moreover, in Finland you can choose either an island for a luxurious holiday or a more modest option, like Tove Jansson.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

4. LIGHTHOUSES

There are approximately 50 lighthouses along the Finnish Baltic Sea coast. About a third of Finnish lighthouses are currently open to tourists and are a maritime attraction. On islands with lighthouses there are restaurants, cafes, saunas and accommodation options, usually in a lighthouse hotel. The unique location of the lighthouse islands in the sea guarantees guests peace and quiet, the pristine sounds of the sea and unity with the natural elements.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

It's truly an incredible feeling. On a sunny day, it’s nice to walk around the island, take a swim, climb to the top of the lighthouse and imagine sailors peering into the distance in the hope of seeing a signal light.

And on a bad day, when the elements are raging, driving waves onto the shore, the sea is agitated and bubbling, the wind is whistling around, a person understands what a grain of sand he is against the powerful forces of nature. And it becomes a little creepy, but at the same time it’s so nice to realize the safety and support under your feet, being at such moments on solid ground and not in the sea.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

5. FERRY

Finland has a very developed network free sea ferries(or "sea movable bridges"). In the Turku archipelago, many islands are connected by similar platform car ferries. You can also get to some islands with attractions by such a ferry.

In the Turku archipelago, you can create a circular route around the islands and visit all the most important natural attractions and interesting places. On the ferry you can travel by car, by bicycle or simply on foot.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

If there is no free ferry to the island of the archipelago you are interested in, then most likely you can find a route on a ferry of a slightly different design and for a not very large fee. In any case, no matter which route around the islands is chosen, exceptional views and unforgettable experiences are guaranteed.

6. MARINE COASTAL CITIES

The ancient wooden towns and fishing villages along the coast add a special charm to the Finnish coast of the Baltic Sea. Life here, especially in summer, is amazing and soulful: small craft markets with products self made, where you can find unique items, small cafes and restaurants with local cuisine and baked goods, village shops and souvenir shops, local events, holidays and small festivals - all this creates an amazing atmosphere that cannot be found in any other part of Finland.

Photo: VisitFinland.com. Photo (c)_Jussi_Hellsten

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

7. SUNSETS AND SUNRISES. STORM AND CALM

Incredibly beautiful sunsets can only be seen on the sea coast. Every day the sunset will be different, but always beautiful and mesmerizing.

It’s also nice to meet the dawn on the shore, listening to the sounds of the sea, which whispers what the coming day will be like. A cup of hot aromatic coffee with a fresh bun will only complement this harmony.

While relaxing on the sea coast of Finland, you can observe the natural elements with the curiosity of a researcher: storms, cyclones, winds, calms, clouds.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

8. BIRD AND SEAL WATCHING

The Finnish Baltic Sea coast is an ideal nesting place for birds. Many migratory birds return here year after year. In summer they nest on the islands of the archipelago and breed their offspring.

The barnacle goose is especially popular in Finland. This large bird can be seen in large numbers on the streets and parks of Helsinki, as well as on all the nearby islands.

When walking around Helsinki in May-June, be careful! If a large black and white goose approaches you, menacingly flaps its wings, sticks out its tongue and hisses, and also tries to pinch your leg, you know that its spouse is hatching eggs somewhere nearby and it is better to stay away from this place.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

The Baltic Sea is inhabited by the cutest creatures - seals. Many small rock islands of the archipelago are favorite habitats of seals on land. A small island from afar may seem alive and moving, but if you look closely, you’ll be surprised how every centimeter stone island busy with these funny creatures. By the way, the seal is quite curious and can swim up to the boat and examine the fisherman, as well as climb onto the island next to people if they do not make a lot of noise.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.

9. SEA FISHING

And of course, fishing in the Gulf of Finland and sea fishing in the Baltic Sea is a must-have attribute of a holiday in Finland on the coast. There are many companies in Finland that organize sea ​​fishing on equipped boats with all the necessary gear. You can try your fishing luck yourself, both from the shore and from a boat. Your own sea catch! What could be nicer? Perhaps only a cooked aromatic dinner from freshly caught fish.

Photo: VisitFinland.com.