There is something about Finland that lingers long after you’ve left.
Perhaps it is the silence of a lakeside morning, broken only by birdsong. Perhaps it is the warmth of a traditional sauna after a day spent exploring forests and fells. Or perhaps it is the simple pleasure of sharing a meal crafted from ingredients gathered from nature’s doorstep.
Finland has long captivated travellers with its wild beauty, northern lights and endless landscapes. Yet beyond the postcard perfect scenery lies another side of the country waiting to be discovered. One that can be experienced through every flavour, every tradition and every moment spent around the table.
The “Have Some Finnish” campaign from Visit Finland, invites visitors to do exactly that.
This is not simply about food. It is about understanding the Finnish way of life.
In Finland, nature is never far away. Forests cover much of the country, lakes shimmer across the landscape and every season brings its own bounty. Wild berries ripen beneath the midnight sun. Mushrooms emerge from ancient woodlands. Fresh fish are pulled from crystal clear waters. These ingredients form the foundation of Finnish cuisine, a culinary tradition rooted in simplicity, seasonality and respect for the natural world.
Every dish tells a story.
A bowl of creamy salmon soup speaks of generations who relied on the lakes and seas for sustenance. Fresh rye bread reflects centuries of tradition, while cloudberries gathered in the far north offer a taste of Lapland’s untamed wilderness. The focus is never on excess. Instead, Finnish cooking celebrates the beauty of pure ingredients and authentic flavours.
For visitors, it offers a chance to experience Finland through all the senses.
Across the country, local chefs and producers are showcasing regional specialities through carefully curated tasting experiences. From the rugged coastlines of the archipelago to the tranquil shores of Lakeland and the vast landscapes of the Arctic north, every region reveals a different chapter of Finland’s culinary identity.
Yet food is only one part of the story.
To truly understand Finland, you must also experience the sauna.
More than a wellness ritual, the sauna is woven into the fabric of Finnish life. It is a place to unwind, connect and embrace a slower pace. Whether overlooking a frozen lake beneath a star filled sky or nestled among peaceful woodland, the experience offers a glimpse into the values that shape Finnish culture.
It is perhaps no surprise that Finland consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world.
Happiness here is not about grand gestures. It is found in everyday moments. Sharing a meal with loved ones. Gathering around a fire. Walking through nature. Taking time to pause.
For travellers seeking something deeper than a typical holiday, Finland offers a refreshing perspective. Here, luxury is measured not by extravagance but by experiences. A quiet cabin beside a lake. A feast of locally sourced ingredients. A sauna followed by a dip in cool, clear water.
These are the moments that stay with you.
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, Finland offers the chance to combine its culinary traditions with one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Across Lapland, unique Aurora dining experiences invite guests to savour authentic Finnish cuisine beneath the dancing Northern Lights. Whether enjoying a gourmet meal in a glass igloo, dining beside a crackling fire in a traditional kota hut or indulging in locally sourced Arctic delicacies under a star filled sky, these extraordinary evenings connect visitors with both Finland’s natural wonders and its rich food heritage. It is an experience that perfectly captures the Finnish way of embracing nature, culture and togetherness, creating memories that linger long after the last course has been served.
The “Have Some Finnish” invitation is ultimately an invitation to slow down and reconnect. To discover a culture that values balance, wellbeing and a profound connection with nature.
Whether you are exploring the Arctic landscapes of Lapland, wandering through charming coastal villages or uncovering hidden gems in the heart of Lakeland, one thing becomes clear. Finland’s greatest treasures are often its simplest.
So when the opportunity arises, take Finland up on its offer.
Have some Finnish. Read more here with Travelmole.
You may find that what begins as a taste of the country becomes something much more meaningful. A new appreciation for nature, a slower rhythm of life and a little of the secret behind the world’s happiest nation.
