41 Facts About Finland

The Land of a Thousand Lakes

Finland is home to around 188,000 lakes and 179,000 islands. With so many lakes, it comes as no surprise that Finland has one of the highest concentrations of lakes in the world.

The Northern Lights

During the winter months, Finland offers spectacular views of the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. The pristine Arctic wilderness provides the perfect backdrop for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Saunas

Saunas are deeply ingrained in Finnish culture. In fact, Finland has the highest number of saunas per capita in the world. It is estimated that there are over 3 million saunas in the country, which equates to almost one sauna per household.

Education System

Finland is well-known for its exceptional education system. It consistently ranks among the top countries in terms of education quality and student performance. The emphasis is on individualized learning, equality, and encouraging creativity.

Midnight Sun

During the summer months, parts of Finland experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun. This means that the sun remains visible above the horizon for 24 hours a day, providing extended daylight hours for outdoor activities.

Santa Claus Village

Finland is often associated with the magical home of Santa Claus. The Santa Claus Village, located in Rovaniemi, attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience the enchantment of meeting Santa Claus himself.

Moomins

The beloved Moomins are fictional characters created by Finnish author Tove Jansson. These adorable creatures have captured the hearts of people worldwide through their books, cartoons, and merchandise.

Mobile Phone Throwing Championship

In Finland, there is an annual event called the Mobile Phone Throwing Championship. Participants compete to see who can throw a mobile phone the farthest. It’s a fun and unique way to let off some steam!

Heavy Metal Capital

Finland is considered the heavy metal capital of the world. The country has a strong metal music scene and has produced internationally acclaimed bands such as Nightwish, HIM, and Children of Bodom.

Helsinki Cathedral

Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is home to the stunning Helsinki Cathedral. This iconic landmark dominates the city’s skyline with its white neoclassical architecture and green dome.

National Bird

The national bird of Finland is the Whooper Swan, known as “laulujoutsen” in Finnish. These elegant birds can often be spotted in Finland’s lakes and wetlands.

Ice Swimming

Ice swimming is a popular pastime in Finland. Many Finns enjoy taking a plunge into freezing water and then warming up in saunas. It is believed to have numerous health benefits.

Freedom to Roam

Finland has a unique concept called “everyman’s right,” which allows anyone to freely explore and enjoy the country’s nature. This means you can camp, hike, and pick berries or mushrooms anywhere, as long as you respect the environment.

The Saami People

The Saami people are an indigenous Finno-Ugric ethnic group who inhabit the northern regions of Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia. They have a distinct culture, language, and reindeer-herding traditions.

Finnish Design

Finland is renowned for its innovative and functional design. Brands such as Marimekko and Iittala have gained international recognition for their stylish products, including clothing, home decor, and tableware.

Licorice Lovers

Finns have a strong affinity for licorice, particularly salty licorice. It’s a popular candy flavor, and you can find a wide variety of licorice products in Finland.

Olympic Success

Despite its relatively small population, Finland has produced many successful Olympic athletes. The country has won numerous medals in various sports, including athletics, skiing, ice hockey, and figure skating.

Invented the First SMS

The first SMS, or text message, was sent in Finland in It was a groundbreaking technological development that revolutionized communication worldwide.

Land of Santa’s Reindeer

Reindeer are an integral part of Finnish culture and folklore. They are often associated with Santa Claus and are even used for sleigh rides in Lapland.

Dip in the Baltic Sea

Finland boasts a long coastline along the Baltic Sea, offering plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months.

Cleanest Air in the World

Finland is known for having some of the cleanest air in the world. The country’s vast forests and minimal pollution contribute to the exceptional air quality.

Biggest Coffee Consumers

Finns are among the biggest coffee consumers globally. It’s not unusual for a Finn to consume several cups of coffee a day.

The Santa Claus Secret

Many letters addressed to Santa Claus arrive in Finland from children all over the world. The Finnish postal service even has a special Santa Claus secret post office that handles these letters.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Finland is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Fortress of Suomenlinna, Old Rauma, and the Kvarken Archipelago.

Famous Architects

Finland has produced world-renowned architects, including Alvar Aalto. Aalto’s designs, characterized by organic forms and innovative use of materials, have left a lasting impact on modern architecture.

Strong Coffee Culture

Coffee breaks, known as “Fika” in Finnish, are an important part of Finnish culture. It’s common to take a break and have a cup of coffee and a pastry, especially during working hours.

The Midnight Golf

Due to the extended daylight hours during the summer, Finland offers a unique experience for golf enthusiasts – playing golf in the middle of the night! Several golf courses stay open all night long.

Santa Claus’ Official Hometown

Rovaniemi, located in Finnish Lapland, is officially recognized as the hometown of Santa Claus. It attracts visitors year-round who come to meet Santa and experience the magic of Christmas.

Language Diversity

Finland has two official languages, Finnish and Swedish. Finnish is a Uralic language, whereas Swedish is a Germanic language. Many Finns are bilingual and can speak both languages fluently.

Sibelius Monument

The Sibelius Monument in Helsinki is dedicated to Finland’s most famous composer, Jean Sibelius. The abstract sculpture resembles organ pipes and is a popular tourist attraction.

Berry Picking Tradition

Finns have a strong tradition of berry picking during the summer months. The forests are abundant with delicious berries such as blueberries, lingonberries, and cloudberries.

Most Saunas Per Capita

As mentioned earlier, Finland has the highest number of saunas per capita in the world. It’s an integral part of Finnish culture and a place for relaxation and socializing.

Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz, also known as “Suomenpystykorva,” is a breed of dog that originated in Finland. It is known for its fox-like appearance and its distinctive vocalizations.

Rich Folklore

Finland has a rich tradition of folklore and mythology. Tales of mythical creatures, such as trolls, giants, and forest spirits, are deeply woven into Finnish culture.

Literary Legacy

Finland has produced many acclaimed writers and poets, including Aleksis Kivi, Eino Leino, and Tove Jansson. Their works have made a significant contribution to Finnish literature.

A Respect for Nature

Finns have a strong appreciation and respect for nature. The country emphasizes sustainable practices and strives to protect its unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

Ice Hockey Dominance

Ice hockey is the most popular sport in Finland. The Finnish national team has achieved great success, winning several medals in international competitions.

The Finnish Flag

The Finnish flag, also known as the Blue Cross Flag, was adopted in 1918 when Finland gained independence from Russia. The flag’s design represents the country’s lakes and blue skies.

Paavo Nurmi

Paavo Nurmi, known as the “Flying Finn,” was one of the greatest middle and long-distance runners in history. He won a total of nine Olympic gold medals and set numerous world records.

Fazer Chocolate

Fazer chocolate is a beloved Finnish brand that has been satisfying sweet cravings since Some of their most popular creations include Fazer Blue and Karl Fazer Milk Chocolate.

The Saimaa Ringed Seal

The Saimaa Ringed Seal, found only in Lake Saimaa in Finland, is one of the rarest seals in the world. It is also one of Finland’s most endangered species and is protected by conservation efforts.

These are just a few of the fascinating facts about Finland. From its stunning natural landscapes to its rich cultural heritage, Finland offers a unique blend of traditions and innovations. Discovering the wonders of this Nordic country is an experience like no other.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Finland is a fascinating country with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique culture. It is known for its high standard of living, strong education system, and commitment to technological advancements. From the enchanting Northern Lights to the unspoiled wilderness, Finland offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cities of Helsinki and Turku or immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Finnish Lakeland, there is something for everyone in Finland. Don’t forget to indulge in the Finnish sauna culture and try delicious local dishes like reindeer meat and rye bread.With its clean and safe environment, Finland is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience the Nordic way of life. So, start planning your trip to Finland and get ready to be captivated by its beauty and charm.

FAQs

1. What is the capital city of Finland?

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland.

2. What language do they speak in Finland?

The official language of Finland is Finnish, but Swedish is also recognized as a co-official language in certain regions.

3. What is Finland known for?

Finland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, sauna culture, high-quality education system, and innovations in technology and design.

4. Is Finland a part of Scandinavia?

While Finland shares some cultural similarities with its Nordic neighbors, it is not considered a part of the Scandinavian countries. It is classified as a Nordic country.

5. What is the best time to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland depends on your interests. Winter is ideal for experiencing the Northern Lights and engaging in winter sports, while summer offers long daylight hours and the opportunity to explore the vibrant Finnish nature.

6. Are mosquitoes a problem in Finland?

Yes, mosquitoes can be a nuisance in Finland, especially during the summer months. It is advisable to use mosquito repellent and carry protective clothing when visiting forested areas.

7. Can you see the Midnight Sun in Finland?

Yes, in the northern parts of Finland, particularly during the summer months, you can experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun remains visible throughout the night.

8. What are some traditional Finnish dishes?

Traditional Finnish dishes include reindeer meat, salmon soup, Karelian pasties, and cinnamon rolls (korvapuusti).

9. How is the public transportation system in Finland?

Finland has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains, buses, trams, and metros in major cities. It is easy to navigate and provides convenient access to various parts of the country.

10. Is Finland a safe country to visit?

Yes, Finland is considered one of the safest countries to visit. It has low crime rates and a well-functioning healthcare system.