10 Best Budget Weekend Breaks in Finland

Tampere is the biggest inland city in the Nordics and one of the Finland’s most popular vacation destinations. Compact and picturesque, it offers plenty for anyone on a budget. If you’re only passing through, check out the old industrial buildings around the Tammerkoski Rapids and eat well at one of the city’s cheap restaurants. A longer stay should include a long walk or cycling trip around nearby Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi, and visits to local landmarks, such as Kaleva Church and the city’s many museums and galleries. During the summer, there is also a plethora of outdoor events, many of which can be enjoyed for free. The city centre is easy to explore on foot or with a rented bicycle. There is also a cheap and highly reliable public bus system. The city’s numerous sights and its energetic and youthful atmosphere make it one of Finland’s go-to destinations – book your visit now!

Finland’s former capital, Turku, definitely won’t break your budget. The city centre is divided in two by the Aurajoki River. Within walking distance from its banks, you’ll find many memorable sights, such as the magnificent Turku Cathedral, the idyllic Luostarinmäki Handicrafts Museum and the iconic Turku Castle. Budget-friendly eats can be found in the historic Turku Market Hall or at cheap Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants, some of which are located just a stone’s throw from the river. Turku also serves as a gateway to the islands of the Archipelago Sea. The nearest, such as Ruissalo, are a quick bus or bicycle ride away. Those looking for a truly unforgettable experience should consider a comprehensive tour via the famous Archipelago Trail. It can be done cheaply if you travel by bus or bicycle and sleep in a tent. Turku has a cheap and well run public bus system and the banks of the Aurajoki and nearby attractions can be visited on foot. When you need some peace and quiet, be sure to check out one of the city’s beautiful parks, such as the scenic Luostarivuori.

If you want to visit Northern Finland, the best option for a cheap vacation has to be Oulu. The compact city centre offers a wide range of beautiful landmarks, such as Oulu Cathedral, the neoclassical Oulu City Hall and the famous Toripolliisi Statue, which can all be visited free of charge. There are also numerous museums and galleries which, though not free, definitely won’t break your budget. From late spring to early fall, you can also spend a day on Nallikari Beach or head for a picnic in Ainola Park. Those looking for something truly unique should consider taking a bus to the island of Hailuoto. If you plan to move on from Oulu to other parts of Northern Finland, bear in mind that many of the services and shops found here won’t be available anywhere else. So even -- or especially -- if you’re on a budget, remember to stock up!

Jyväskylä offers plenty for those on a budget: beautiful scenery, Alvar Aalto’s architecture and a range of events. The nearby lakes can be visited from spring to autumn, while in the dead of winter you can bask in the light provided by the city’s famous light installations. Jyväskylä has strong links to Finland’s most famous architect, Alvar Aalto. This is where he went to school, started a family and also began his illustrious career. In total Jyväskylä boasts 16 buildings that were designed by Aalto, plus numerous other Aalto-themed attractions, such as the Alvar Aalto Museum. Natural wonders aren't far away either. The nearest nature trail is just a few blocks from the city centre, on the banks of the small Tourujoki River. In hot weather, you can also walk further west and go for a swim at Viitaniemi Beach. Before you visit Jyväskylä, don’t forget to head online and check the city’s impressive events calendar. The summer months offer a wide variety of music and sports events. The winter’s top attractions are the annual Christmas fair and the famous urban lights festival, the City of Light. Thanks to its central location, Jyväskylä is easy to reach by public transportation or by automobile.

Kuopio is a historic city with plenty to offer for those on a budget. You can start by checking out the main sights, such as Kuopio Market Square and Market Hall, Kuopio Cathedral and city’s numerous art galleries. When you need a break, head to one of the city’s cheap restaurants for a large plate of Finnish, Middle Eastern or Chinese fare. If the weather permits, after your meal, a good option is to head south to Vainolanniemi, where you’ll find a beach, beautiful scenery and also a few sights, such as the historic Peraniemi Casino building. When you want to experience nature like never before, catch a bus to the nature trails of Korkeakoski, Pisa or Tahko. And before you leave Kuopio, don’t forget to visit the famous Puijo Tower. Though not free, it’s not expensive either, and the views are stunning.

Vantaa is full of surprises: in addition to its well-known airport, the city offers a popular science center, scenic nature trails and locations, and historic sights from many different eras. The city’s top attraction is Heureka, a long-serving science center for all ages. However, those on a budget should also check out the city’s lesser-known natural and historic sights. In just one day you can easily visit the beautiful Vantaankoski Rapids and the nature trails of Kuusijärvi, or the vast Sipoonkorpi National Park. History, meanwhile, is on offer at locations such as the Vantaa City Museum, the Finnish Aviation Museum and the city’s free hidden gem, the Fortifications of Länsimäki. When you know the exact dates of your visit, don’t forget to also check the city’s events calendar. Thanks to its world-famous airport, Vantaa is easy to reach by just about every possible means of transportation. Come, see and enjoy – Vantaa is full of surprises!

Lapland’s biggest city, Rovaniemi, offers many interesting sights, a wide range of shops and restaurants and quick access to Lapland’s wilderness. Though the city centre is urban, even hectic, peace and quiet are never far away: just cross the Kemijoki River and head for the hiking trails of Ounasvaara and the hustle and bustle will be no more than a memory. Only a few miles outside the city, you’re more likely to encounter reindeer than humans. In the city, be sure to check out the buildings designed by Alvar Alto and the impressive Jätkänkynttilä Bridge. When you get hungry, a good restaurant is never far away. Local food can be relatively expensive; if you’re on a budget, try one of the Chinese or Middle Eastern restaurants. Rovaniemi can be reached by automobile, plane, bus or train. From Helsinki, the cheapest option is a long-distance bus, but beware: the trip will take at least 11 hours. Rovaniemi is Lapland’s transportation hub, so it’s always relatively easy to catch a bus to further destinations, such as Inari or the various ski resorts.

Mikkeli is a great destination for nature lovers and anyone interested in Finnish history. Though it’s best visited in the summer, there are things to see and do in the colder seasons too. Apart from the tours and certain activities, nothing is expensive, so you’ll have no problems even on a tight budget. During WWII the headquarters of the Finnish army was located in Mikkeli. As a result, most of the city’s landmarks and sights have something to do with the military. These include the Infantry Museum, Headquarters Museum and Mannerheim’s Sedan Automobile, all of which can be visited for a minimal fee. The beauty of nature can be experienced on the waters and islands of Saimaa, or in nearby locations, such as the rugged Repovesi National Park, scenic Neitvuori or on the shores of Astuvansalmi, where you can also admire prehistoric rock paintings. Those wishing to catch a glimpse of the endangered Saimaa ringed seal can try their luck on the waters of Puumala. Guided tours can be expensive, so for those on a budget, the best option is to head out on a rented boat. During cold or rainy weather, be sure to check out some of the city’s cultural attractions, such as Mikkeli Art Museum, Suur-Savo Museum or the city’s historic theater, Mikkelin Teatteri.

In Western Lapland you won’t find a better travel destination than Kittilä. For those on a budget, this all-year destination offers incredible fells, huge national parks and a broad range of low-budget activities. During the winter months, the area’s top destination is the ski resort of Levi. From spring to autumn many also head for the Pallas-Ylläs and Lemmenjoki National Parks or drop in for a visit at one of the many events hosted in various locations in, or near, the city of Kittilä. The activities on offer will not disappoint. Budget-friendly options include various scenic trails, regular and mountain biking, frisbee golf, skiing and bathing, to name a few. Though it also has to be said that many are happy just enjoying the incredible peace and quiet, evenings in the sauna and/or the northern lights. If you want to get to Kittilä quickly and with minimum fuss, you should book a flight to the city’s Kittilä Airport. If that’s not possible, you can rent a automobile or catch a bus from Rovaniemi.

Lapland is a vast area offering a number of sights and activities all year round. If you’re on a tight budget, avoid the ski resorts – just about everything else can be experienced on the cheap. Depending on the length of your stay, even with a meager budget you can explore untouched fells and huge national parks, discover the area’s unique Sámi culture and enjoy some of the region’s less-expensive services. The Finnish part of Lapland alone covers a huge area encompassing both growing tourist destinations, such as Rovaniemi and Levi, and seven national parks of incredible, serene beauty. In short, there is something – and plenty of room – for everyone! Individual attractions that can be visited on a budget include Pilke Science Park and Santa Claus Village (both in Rovaniemi), the Snow Castle of Kemi (Kemi), the Gold Museum (Saariselkä), Ranua Wildlife Park (Ranua) and the Luosto Amethyst Mine (Luosto), to name a few. That said, Lapland’s primary draws will always remain the peace and quiet, its uniquely beautiful scenery and that unidentifiable something, symbolized by the glorious northern lights. Lapland is magic!