What to Do in Finland in 2025: Top Leisure Activities
Finland offers an abundance of indoor and outdoor leisure activities, making it an ideal destination for all age groups. Whether you’re exploring the vast wilderness or enjoying the cozy warmth of Finnish homes during snowy winter days, there’s something for everyone. In 2025, Finland continues to be a country where outdoor adventures, sports, and cultural experiences blend seamlessly with relaxation and wellness. Below are some of the best leisure activities to experience in Finland this year.
Embrace Nature with Outdoor Activities
1. Hiking and Trekking in Finland’s Stunning Landscapes
Finland is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with over 75% of the country covered in forests and more than 188,000 lakes. Hiking and trekking are popular ways to explore the Finnish wilderness, especially in national parks like Nuuksio and Oulanka. In 2025, there will be more well-marked trails, including eco-friendly routes and hiking paths that allow you to experience the vibrant nature year-round.
You can hike through dense forests, trek along rocky paths, and enjoy the peace and serenity of Finland’s natural surroundings. Many trails offer views of stunning lakes, waterfalls, and vast forests, making it a rejuvenating experience for anyone who loves the outdoors.
2. Kayaking and Boating on Finland’s Lakes
Finland is often called the “Land of a Thousand Lakes,” and it’s no surprise that kayaking and boating are favorite activities. In 2025, Finland’s pristine lakes continue to offer some of the best kayaking spots in Europe. Paddle through peaceful waters, explore hidden coves, or join a guided boat tour on Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest lake. Kayaking allows you to get up close to Finland’s stunning nature while enjoying some exercise. Boating is also popular, with many lakes offering boat rentals for those who want to spend a relaxing day on the water.
3. Fishing on Finnish Lakes
Fishing in Finland is a relaxing way to spend time surrounded by nature. Whether you prefer fly fishing, ice fishing, or just a quiet day on the lake, Finland offers countless opportunities. Popular fishing destinations include Lake Inari and Lake Pielinen, where you can catch local fish like perch, salmon, and pike. For those new to fishing, many lakeside accommodations offer fishing gear rentals, making it an accessible leisure activity for all skill levels.
4. Skiing and Fat Biking in Winter
Winter in Finland is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, with snow-covered landscapes offering excellent skiing and fat biking opportunities. Skiing remains one of Finland’s most beloved winter activities, with both downhill and cross-country skiing options available in areas like Levi, Ruka, and Ylläs. If you’re looking for something unique in 2025, try fat biking—riding specialized bikes with wide tires over snow-covered trails. It’s a fantastic way to explore Finland’s winter landscape while getting some exercise.
Relax and Unwind: Indoor and Wellness Activities
5. Sauna and Swimming
The sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture, and no visit to Finland is complete without experiencing it. Finland has more than 2 million saunas, making it a country where you can relax and rejuvenate in this age-old tradition. Whether in a smoke sauna by a lake or a modern sauna in a luxury spa, the experience is deeply relaxing and healing.
In 2025, you can enjoy the Finnish sauna in combination with swimming. Many Finns take a dip in an ice-cold lake or the sea after spending time in the sauna. It’s said to boost circulation, enhance relaxation, and improve mental well-being. For those visiting in the winter months, swimming in the snowy outdoors can be an invigorating and unforgettable experience.
6. Sledging with Huskies: A Unique Winter Adventure
Sledging with huskies is one of Finland’s most popular winter activities. In 2025, dog sledding trips are available in several Finnish Lapland regions. Whether you’re new to the experience or an avid adventurer, husky sledding is a thrilling way to explore Finland’s snow-covered landscapes. You’ll be guided by expert mushers and have the chance to interact with the sled dogs, making it an exciting and memorable experience for all ages.
Experience Finland’s Unique Wildlife and Nature
7. Chasing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
One of the most magical things to do in Finland in 2025 is to witness the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. Finland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural light display, with Lapland being a prime location. Whether you choose to watch the lights from the comfort of a glass igloo, take a snowmobile tour, or venture out on a guided hike, the Northern Lights are a must-see phenomenon. Expect to see vibrant green, pink, and purple hues dancing across the night sky, creating an unforgettable experience.
8. Pet Reindeer: A True Finnish Experience
In the northernmost regions of Finland, reindeer are a symbol of the local Sámi culture. In 2025, tourists can visit reindeer farms and even interact with these gentle animals. While it’s not possible to take reindeer on walks, many farms offer the chance to pet and feed reindeer, and some even allow visitors to ride in a reindeer sled. Petting reindeer provides a deeper connection to Finland’s rural life and is an experience that the whole family can enjoy.
Cultural and Community Activities
9. Library Visits and Cultural Events
For those seeking a quieter form of leisure in 2025, Finland’s municipal libraries provide a wonderful cultural experience. Libraries across Finland offer a variety of events, from storytelling hours for children to language cafes for practicing Finnish. Many libraries also have quiet spaces for reading or studying and host community events that focus on arts, crafts, and local culture. These libraries are open to everyone, making them an excellent resource for both locals and visitors.
10. Sports and Fitness Classes
Finnish cities offer a wide range of sports and fitness activities for people of all ages. Whether you’re interested in yoga, cycling, or exercise classes, Finland has numerous sports clubs and municipal facilities where you can join group activities. Many areas also offer classes aimed at immigrants or those new to Finland, including women-only sports groups. Swimming and skiing are especially popular, and many municipalities offer beginner courses to help people get started.
What to Do in Finland in 2025: The Perfect Leisure Destination
Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, wellness seeker, or culture enthusiast, Finland in 2025 offers an incredible variety of leisure activities that cater to all interests. From exploring the great outdoors to unwinding in the sauna, chasing the Northern Lights, or enjoying community events, Finland provides a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. No matter the season, Finland is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a unique and enriching leisure experience.
