Komfort-Mietwagenrundreise "Finlandia"

About the destination: Helsinki is situated on a little peninsula on the southern tip of Finland. Approach Helsinki from the sea and you’ll see neoclassical buildings of elegant lines and pastel colours, and a marketplace overflowing with strawberries and salmon. The city has grown with attention to harmony. In summer many residents abandon urban tranquillity for their country cottages, but in winter the capital comes alive with theatre, political institutes and over 20,000 university students. Architecture buffs will love Helsinki. The handsome neoclassical buildings surrounding Senate Square were designed almost singlehandedly by German architect Carl Ludwig Engel in the early 19th century, just after Helsinki replaced Turku as Finland’s capital. The crowning piece is the Lutheran Cathedral, which has recently been refurbished and looks better than ever, with the 12 apostles on the roof once again looking down at the world below. Elsewhere in the city, the bold, simple creations of the city’s great 20th century architects, notably Aalto and Saarinen, blend with the clean neoclassical lines. The stunning Jean Sibelius Monument, dedicated to Finland’s most famous composer, consists of hundreds of steel pipes sculpted by Elia Hiltunen. The monument is in Sibelius Park. The Kansallimuseo, National Museum, has wonderful displays of Finnish culture. The exhibits of the City Museum illustrates the history of the city. The islands surrounding Helsinki make excellent daytrips. The sandy beaches and smooth rocks of Pihlajasaari make it a popular summer spot for tanning Finns. Every summer there are many free outdoor concerts in one of the city’s numerous parks. Afternoons, all kinds of music resound on the leafy Esplanadi. Helsinki is a small city if you compare it to those gigantic cities around the world but the spirit is still quite cosmopolitan. Helsinki is a beautiful city, especially in the summer. The streets are clean and you can always find a peaceful spot, in case you need one. Some say that Helsinki is "the biggest village in the world" and it is a great place for tourism, history, museums, galleries, theatre, music, shopping, restaurants, clubs, etc. all environmentally friendly, free of pollution and traffic congestion.

About the destination: Porvoo is a city and a municipality situated on the southern coast of Finland about 35 kilometres east of the city border of Helsinki and approximately 50 kilometres of the city centre. It is one of the six medieval towns in Finland, first mentioned as a city in texts from the 14th century.

About the destination: Lahti is the capital of the region of P.I.J.nne Tavastia, located on the shores of Lake Vesij-rvi. It is the seventh largest city in Finland.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Mikkeli is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern comforts. Known for its sprawling landscapes dotted with thousands of lakes, this picturesque town invites travelers to explore its serene environment and indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you're kayaking on the pristine waters of Lake Saimaa, hiking through lush forests, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic by the lakeside, Mikkeli provides an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure alike. Mikkeli is not just about its natural allure; it is steeped in history and culture that beckons to be explored. The town is home to a variety of museums and historical sites, such as the Mannerheim Headquarters Museum, which offers a glimpse into Finland's wartime history. Stroll through Mikkeli’s vibrant market square, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique Finnish crafts. The city’s architecture, a mix of traditional wooden houses and modern structures, provides a charming backdrop for your explorations. Art enthusiasts will find Mikkeli to be a delightful destination, with its array of galleries showcasing both contemporary and traditional Finnish art. The annual Mikkeli Music Festival is a highlight for visitors, featuring performances by world-renowned musicians in stunning settings. For those seeking wellness and relaxation, Mikkeli’s numerous spas offer rejuvenating treatments, making it an ideal destination for a holistic getaway. Whether you're seeking tranquility amidst nature, a dive into Finnish culture, or simply a unique travel experience, Mikkeli promises to deliver. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with a wealth of activities, makes it a destination worth exploring in any season. From the vibrant hues of autumn foliage to the magical winter landscapes, Mikkeli is a year-round destination that captivates the hearts of those who visit.

About the destination: The lakes in Finland are often connected to each other by numerous streams and form a very complex lake and river system. The great majority of these lakes is of glacial origin. Indeed, during the different glaciations the ice sheets covered the north of Europe, including Finland. These ice, by phenomena of glacial erosion, stripped and brushed the granitic craton of Scandinavia. The last layer of ice, installed during the Würm glaciation ended about 10,000 years ago, depositing after its withdrawal glacial reliefs such as moraines (such as those of Salpausselkä and Suomenselkä, two terminal moraines located in the south and oriented from east to west) . These moraines blocked most of the time the numerous Finnish water courses, leaving only a few gaps to reach the sea. This aspect, combined with the low altitude and a slight relief, gave rise to the formation of lakes upstream of these natural dams. Other lakes, however, were born from the impact of a meteorite (such as Lake Lappajärvi) or are the result of an artificial dam (such as the Porttipahta or Lokka lakes). These lakes, with very sharp contours, also have many islands, sometimes up to several thousand in the largest lakes, formed by granite rock eroded by glacial reliefs (eskers in particular) and the remains of ancient mountain chains called tunturis.

About the destination: Kuopio is the largest city of North Savonia. Founded in 1775, Kuopio is a thriving, modern city, where science and technology blends into the verdant natural beauty of the local environment. Surrounded by Lake Kallavesi, much of Kuopio has been developed on islands. Kuopio is also a hugely popular holiday destination for sports enthusiasts, with three highly recommended ski centres in Tahko, Kasurila and Puijo for winter sports, as well as providing plenty of water based alternatives in the summer, such as sailing, wind-surfing, jet-skiing, and water-skiing.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Finland, Kajaani is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this charming town is surrounded by lush forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque landscapes that are sure to captivate any nature lover. Whether you're visiting in the winter for a snowy wonderland or in the summer for endless daylight, Kajaani offers a plethora of activities and attractions for every season. Start your journey by exploring the historical landmarks of Kajaani. The Kajaani Castle ruins, dating back to the early 17th century, provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Although only the foundations remain, the site is steeped in history and offers a picturesque setting along the banks of the Kajaani River. Nearby, the Kajaani Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of Finnish contemporary art, while the Kajaani Church, with its stunning neo-gothic architecture, is a must-visit for those interested in local culture and history. For outdoor enthusiasts, Kajaani is a paradise. In the winter months, the region transforms into a snowy playground, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The nearby Vuokatti Ski Resort is a popular destination, offering well-maintained slopes and a range of winter sports activities. During the warmer months, the surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking, cycling, and fishing. The beautiful Lake Oulujärvi, often referred to as the "Sea of Kainuu," is perfect for boating and offers breathtaking sunsets that are not to be missed. After a day of exploration, indulge in the local cuisine and hospitality. Kajaani boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Finnish dishes, such as reindeer stew and fresh fish from the nearby lakes. Don't forget to try the local Kainuu cheese, a regional specialty. With its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, Kajaani promises an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to explore the true essence of Finland. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this charming town offers something for everyone.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Finland’s mesmerizing Lapland region, Kuusamo is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Known for its stunning landscapes, Kuusamo offers an escape into a world where lush forests, pristine lakes, and rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop. Whether you are visiting in the warm summer months or the enchanting winter season, Kuusamo promises an unforgettable experience with activities that cater to all tastes. In the summer, Kuusamo becomes a haven for hikers and wildlife watchers. The region boasts a myriad of trails, including the famous Karhunkierros (Bear’s Trail), which winds through verdant forests and past cascading waterfalls. As you explore, keep an eye out for the rich wildlife that inhabit the area, such as elk, reindeer, and various bird species. For those seeking tranquility, the serene lakes offer opportunities for kayaking and fishing, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature. The Midnight Sun phenomenon also adds a magical touch, allowing for extended daylight hours to immerse yourself in outdoor adventures. As winter descends, Kuusamo transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for winter sports and cozy retreats. Ruka, one of Finland’s premier ski resorts, offers excellent slopes for skiing and snowboarding, catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Beyond the slopes, you can experience the thrill of husky safaris, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. For a truly unique experience, embark on a snowmobile safari across the snow-covered landscapes, where the Northern Lights often dance in the sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle that is sure to leave you in awe. Kuusamo is not just about outdoor adventures; it also offers a glimpse into local culture and traditions. Visit the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Centre to appreciate stunning wildlife photography or explore local Finnish cuisine at cozy restaurants serving hearty dishes. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural insights, Kuusamo is a destination that captivates the heart and soul, inviting travelers to discover the enchanting beauty of Finland's Lapland.

About the destination: Saariselkä (Northern Sami: Suoločielgi, literally islandback) is a village located in a mountainous area in northern Finland. It is a popular tourist destination, providing activities such as skiing, hiking and a spa. It is located in Northern Lapland and belongs to the Inari municipality.

About the destination: Inari is Finland's largest municipality (but one of the most sparsely populated), with four official languages, more than any other in the country. Its major sources of income are tourism, service industry and cold climate testing. With the Siida museum in the village of Inari, it is a center of Sami culture. The airport in Ivalo and the country's key north-south European Route E75 bring summer and winter vacationers seeking resorts with access to a well-preserved, uncrowded natural environment.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Sirkka is a charming village that serves as a gateway to the enchanting world of arctic adventures. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Sirkka is the perfect destination for those seeking both tranquility and excitement. Whether you're drawn to the snowy landscapes for winter sports or the midnight sun of summer, Sirkka has something to offer year-round. During the winter months, Sirkka transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. Levi Ski Resort, one of Finland's premier skiing destinations, is located just a stone's throw away. With its extensive network of slopes and trails, both beginners and seasoned skiers can find the perfect run. Beyond skiing, visitors can indulge in unique arctic experiences such as husky sledding, snowmobiling, and even witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights dance across the night sky. As the snow melts and summer arrives, Sirkka reveals a different kind of magic. The lush green landscapes and pristine lakes provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, cycling, and fishing. The Midnight Sun Marathon is a highlight for many, offering a unique opportunity to run under the never-setting sun. Nature enthusiasts will relish exploring the nearby Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, where serene trails and breathtaking vistas await. Sirkka's charm extends beyond its natural wonders. The village itself exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with cozy accommodations, delightful local cuisine, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in Finnish traditions, from relaxing in a traditional sauna to sampling local delicacies like reindeer stew. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Sirkka promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Lapland.

About the destination: Lying just south of the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is the Finnish capital of Lapland. It is located at the confluence of Lapland's mighty rivers Kemijoki and Ounasjoki. Beautiful colours all year round, relatively warm summers, real snowy winters, Santa Claus, many sport resorts, great hotels and services, for all this and more Rovaniemi is an obligatory northern stop. Moreover, it is a good place to explore the Lapland region and to observe the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. The Lumberjack Candle Bridge, Jätkänkynttilä, has become a symbol of Rovaniemi. The bridge has a high pylon with bright yellow light on top and a massive bronze lumberjack statue. The Arktikum museum is a one-stop cultural centre for all things Arctic, it is dedicated to exhibits relating to Lapland's geology, climate, plants, animal life and cultures. Aside from the exhibits, the Arktikum's highlight is definitely its long glass corridor with its views on the river behind the building. Outside Arktikum there's a garden of arctic plants. Rovaniemi is, of course, Santa Claus hometown. At Santa Claus Village you can meet Santa Claus, send friends and relatives greetings from the Arctic Circle at the Santa Claus Post Office and visit the Christmas Exhibition, which explains some of the Christmas traditions from around the world. Rovaniemi is the best place to make a Christmas wishlist and to experience awe-inspiring wilderness, traditional Sámi culture, and enjoy a range of different activities surrounded by a wonderful natural landscape.

About the destination: Kemi is located in Southern Lapland, in a region referred to as Sea Lapland. It is easily reachable by air, rail and road. Kemi is the centre of trade and services in Sea Lapland. It houses the paper mills of Stora Enso and Metsä-Botnia as well as the Outokumpu Kemi mine. Digipolis Kemi Technology Park offers top-flight expertise for the industrial sector. The city centre has a number of special stores for great shopping. CULTURE AND MEETINGS NEXT TO THE PLEASANT GUEST MARINA Kemi Culture Center offers various spaces for congresses and meetings equipped with modern technology. Just a stone’s throw from the sea, the Culture Center also houses the city library, the city orchestra, the Kemi art museum and the city theatre. The sheltered Kemi Guest Marina is located on a beautiful spot, just a few hundred metres from the city centre. Local yacht clubs with their restaurants, saunas, and other services provide pleasant visits. BREAK THE ICE ON AN ICEBREAKER Post-meeting activities in Kemi range from snowmobile and husky safaris in the winter to kayaking and dinner cruises in the summer. The most famous of Kemi’s attractions is the icebreaker Sampo. Having formerly served the Finnish government opening frozen seas, Sampo now offers unique cruise experiences on the Gulf of Bothnia. Feeling the majestic steel crushing arctic ice is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced. Board the Sampo and get a taste of the vast arctic sea scenery, and maybe even dip in the freezing Bothnian Sea! A BIG SNOW CASTLE AND JEWELS The SnowCastle of Kemi is a true showcase of architectonic snow-work by local constructors. In 2014, the SnowCastle will be built for the 19th time, and it continues offering wonderful experiences for both children and adults. Kemi Gemstone Gallery is an exciting and educational adventure into the mysterious and enchanting world of gemstones! The crown of the King of Finland (who never came to be) is stored here.

About the destination: Oulu is a city in Oulu province, northern Finland. One of largest northerly cities in the world, Oulu has grown from an ancient trading centre to a modern city, packed with museums and galleries, and host to numerous cultural and music festivals every year. These include the Oulu Music Video Festival, the International Children's Film Festival and the Musixine Music Film competition, the rock festival Qstock, Jalometalli Metal Music Festival and Jalometalli Winterfest, the Festival of Irish Music, the Oulu Music Festival in winter, the Oulunsalo Music Festival in summer.

About the destination: Vaasa is in Ostrobothnia, Western Finland. With almost 20 museums, numerous art galleries and a city orchestra, Vaasa can lay claim to being the cultural heart of Ostrobothnia. A visit to Vaasa is always a rewarding experience, especially when you arrive during the Vaasa Choir Festival, the Korsholm Music Festival, the prestigious Jorma Panula Conducting Competition, or on Vaasa's popular Night of the Arts. Nature lovers know Vaasa for Terranova, which introduces the wonderful Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and will delight in the Nature Trail at Öjberget which takes in the Öjbergsmossen bog, a giant's pot hole, a 'devil's field' and a dwarf pine-covered meteorite crater.

About the destination: Jyvaskyla is the largest city in the province of Central Finland. This university town is surrounded by hills, forests and hundreds of lakes. It is a pleasant and happening town that offers a wide range of events and it is home to significant museums. The main campus of the university located on Seminaarinmäki is a place worth checking out. There are many buildings by the famous architect Alvar Aalto, as well as by a couple of other renowned architects. The campus is also a botanical garden, serving as a conservation unit of plants used in research. Other interesting building by Alvar Aalto around the city are the Kaupunginteatteri, the town theatre, and the Alvar Aalto Museum, which is specialised in architecture and design and functions as the national and international centre on all things Aalto. It is located in a building designed by Aalto himself. Another building worth visiting is the Petäjävesi Old Church, a UNESCO’s world heritage site and a prime example of Nordic wooden architecture. As a university city, Jyvaskyla has a lively nightlife. Nightlife is centred in the downtown part of Kauppakatu and cross streets, some also in the uptown part of Kauppakatu, near the University. As most of the bars are situated on Kauppakatu or very close to it, pub crawls can be easily arranged in Jyvaskyla. Start from Yläkaupunki and work your way down to the clubs in Alakaupunki. The heart of the city, the pedestrian street, runs through the stone compass pattern at the junction of Asemakatu and Kauppakatu. The compass is the most popular meeting place in the centre. The centre of Jyvaskyla provides a pleasant setting for shopping, wandering around and enjoying a relaxing cup of coffee or tea.

About the destination: Tampere is the third largest city in Finland with around 213,000 inhabitants and a metro population of nearly half a million. Located between the two lakes of Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, which are only connected by the narrow rapids of Tammerkoski, Tampere is truly pretty. The rapids were used for generating electricity and Tampere was the first industrial city in Finland when factories started to rise near the rapids that gave the city the moniker ‘Manchester of Finland’. Still a major industrial and business hub, the city has come a long way from its heavy industry roots and transformed into a pleasant and attractive town with wonderful sites, culture activities and nature to see around. Tampere Cathedral, known as Tuomiokirkko, is one of the city's best-known sites. Surrounded by a small park, this beautiful church looks just like a stone castle. Also the interior is well worth seeing with decorative paintings and stained glass windows. Another major religious building in Tampere is The Russian Orthodox Church. It is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Tampere and the finest masterpiece of Byzantine-style architecture in the Nordic countries. Its seven domes represent the seven sacraments. Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi are great places for relaxing, swimming and sailing. Museums abound and most concentrate on Tampere’s industrial history. Amuri Museum of Workers' Housing is highly recommended to learn more about the history of Tampere. The kids and the kids at heart will enjoy the Moominvalley, a museum that outlines the history of the famous cartoon characters created by author Tove Jansson. With a nice city centre, a good night life, beautiful scenery and a good museums Tampere is a great place to unwind. Also worth exploring is the countryside around Tampere is amazing with rolling hills and stunning lakes with little cottages and saunas on their shores.

About the destination: Turku is a city in the Southwest coast of Finland at the mouth of Aura River. The oldest of all Finland's cities, Turku was actually once the Finnish capital, although is now actually the country's fifth-largest city. Although very few medieval attractions remain in Turku, the city has successfully managed to retain a strong historical character and various archaeological exhibits are to be found within its museums. Few sights in the city are more impressive and eye-catching than Turku Castle itself, which boasts no less than two dungeons and dates from the latter part of the 13th century. Equally famous is Turku Cathedral, which ranks amongst Finland's most significant churches and contains many interesting side chapels. Considered to be a suburb of the city, the island of Ruissalon is easy to reach and home to a zoo, University Botanical Gardens and a renowned golf course.

About the destination: Helsinki is situated on a little peninsula on the southern tip of Finland. Approach Helsinki from the sea and you’ll see neoclassical buildings of elegant lines and pastel colours, and a marketplace overflowing with strawberries and salmon. The city has grown with attention to harmony. In summer many residents abandon urban tranquillity for their country cottages, but in winter the capital comes alive with theatre, political institutes and over 20,000 university students. Architecture buffs will love Helsinki. The handsome neoclassical buildings surrounding Senate Square were designed almost singlehandedly by German architect Carl Ludwig Engel in the early 19th century, just after Helsinki replaced Turku as Finland’s capital. The crowning piece is the Lutheran Cathedral, which has recently been refurbished and looks better than ever, with the 12 apostles on the roof once again looking down at the world below. Elsewhere in the city, the bold, simple creations of the city’s great 20th century architects, notably Aalto and Saarinen, blend with the clean neoclassical lines. The stunning Jean Sibelius Monument, dedicated to Finland’s most famous composer, consists of hundreds of steel pipes sculpted by Elia Hiltunen. The monument is in Sibelius Park. The Kansallimuseo, National Museum, has wonderful displays of Finnish culture. The exhibits of the City Museum illustrates the history of the city. The islands surrounding Helsinki make excellent daytrips. The sandy beaches and smooth rocks of Pihlajasaari make it a popular summer spot for tanning Finns. Every summer there are many free outdoor concerts in one of the city’s numerous parks. Afternoons, all kinds of music resound on the leafy Esplanadi. Helsinki is a small city if you compare it to those gigantic cities around the world but the spirit is still quite cosmopolitan. Helsinki is a beautiful city, especially in the summer. The streets are clean and you can always find a peaceful spot, in case you need one. Some say that Helsinki is "the biggest village in the world" and it is a great place for tourism, history, museums, galleries, theatre, music, shopping, restaurants, clubs, etc. all environmentally friendly, free of pollution and traffic congestion.