Attractions and Places To See in Southern Finland - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Southern Finland include a blend of vibrant urban culture, serene natural landscapes, and rich historical sites. The region encompasses the capital city of Helsinki, known for its iconic landmarks and modern architecture, alongside picturesque old towns like Porvoo and Turku. Southern Finland also features accessible national parks, offering diverse natural beauty with lakes, forests, and cliffs. This area provides a wide range of experiences, from historical exploration to outdoor activities.
Best attractions and…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Helsinki Cathedral
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Senate Square (Senaatintori)
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Vanha Kauppahalli (Old Market Hall), Helsinki
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Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki
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Oodi Helsinki Central Library
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Presidential Palace, Helsinki
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Esplanadi Park
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Despite lots of people either going up or down, cozy and welcoming.
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Mustalampi Picnic Shelter
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Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)
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Statue of Alexander II, Senate Square
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Senate Square (Finnish: Senaatintori, Swedish: Senatstorget) is a square in the center of Helsinki, the Finnish capital. It is located directly on Aleksanterinkatu, one of the city center's main streets, not far from the harbor. With its buildings designed by Carl Ludwig Engel, Senate Square represents a unique neoclassical ensemble. The north side is dominated by Helsinki Cathedral, the city's most famous landmark. On the east and west sides are two other buildings designed by Engel: the old Senate Building, which today houses the Council of State, the Finnish government, and the main building of the University of Helsinki. On the south side of the square stands a series of older buildings, including the Sederholm House from 1757, the oldest stone building in downtown Helsinki. Adjacent to the square is the House of Knights (ritarihuone/riddarhuset), the former seat of the Finnish nobility, and the University Museum. Source: Wikipedia
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Very good place for photos
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During the chaos of the First World War, the building housed a military hospital and in 1917 - after Finland declared independence - the Finnish Senate took over the building. Since 1919, the palace has been the seat of the president. The tsars last visited the palace in 1915. Today, the Finnish presidential palace is only used for representative purposes.
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The neoclassical Presidential Palace stands directly at the crossing from the Helsinki mainland to the island of Katajanokka. The city palace was built between 1816 and 1820 for the wealthy entrepreneur Johan Henrik Heidenstrauch and was bought by the Russian Tsar Nicholas I in 1837.
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The monument, which is 10.67 m high, is in the style of realism. The Tsar stands in the middle on a red granite base. He is depicted in the uniform of a Finnish guard officer, as he wore it when he spoke in the Reichstag in 1863. Four allegorical groups of figures are placed around the base. The most popular allegory is the Law. She holds a sword, is dressed in a bearskin and stands in front of a lion, the heraldic animal of Finland. She is often interpreted as the Maiden of Finland, the personification of Finland. Copies can be found in the House of Estates and the old parliament building, among other places. Also depicted are: Work as a farm laborer couple; Peace as a goddess surrounded by doves of peace and agricultural motifs; Light holds a spectrometer as a symbol of science and is accompanied by an angel with a lyre, representing art.
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In the middle of Senate Square stands a monument to the Russian Tsar Alexander II, who was respected for his pro-Finnish policies. After Alexander II was assassinated in 1881, the Grand Ducal Finnish Diet announced a competition in 1884 to create a monument to the Tsar on Senate Square. The design by sculptor Johannes Takanen won first place, and Walter Runeberg won second place. The jury decided that the two should work together on the final design. However, Takanen died in 1885, so Runeberg was able to put the designs together on his own. The inauguration took place on April 29, 1894, Alexander's birthday.
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Alexander II, Tsar of Russia and Grand Duke of Finland, inspired confidence in his Finnish subjects. After his assassination in 1881, a competition for a monument was organized in 1884.
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The Esplanadi Park is beautifully laid out. You can relax on a bench or on the lawn in the sun. If you're lucky, there might even be musicians playing there. A relaxing place in the heart of the city.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Southern Finland?
Southern Finland is rich in history. You can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, an 18th-century maritime fortress accessible by ferry from Helsinki. Other notable historical sites include the medieval Senate Square (Senaatintori) in Helsinki, the charming Old Town of Porvoo with its historic Porvoo Cathedral, and Turku Castle, one of Scandinavia's largest surviving medieval castles.
Are there any unique architectural attractions in Southern Finland?
Yes, Southern Finland boasts several unique architectural marvels. In Helsinki, don't miss the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church), carved directly into rock, or the modern and innovative Oodi Helsinki Central Library. The grand Neoclassical Helsinki Cathedral and the impressive Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki also stand out with their distinct designs.
What natural parks are best for a day trip from Helsinki?
For a refreshing day trip into nature, Nuuksio National Park is highly recommended due to its close proximity to Helsinki. It offers beautiful landscapes with small lakes, forests, and cliffs, along with numerous marked trails. Another excellent option is Repovesi National Park, known for its dramatic scenery, towering cliffs, and clear lakes, though it's a bit further out.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the attractions in Southern Finland?
Southern Finland offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the moderate Seurasaarenselkä Waterfront Trail or the more challenging Inner City Waterfront Trail. For hiking, there are easy options like the Raven's Loop Trail or the Haukankierros Trail in Nuuksio National Park. You can explore these and more on the Running Trails in Southern Finland and Easy hikes in Southern Finland guide pages.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Southern Finland?
Absolutely! Many attractions in Southern Finland are suitable for families. The Suomenlinna Sea Fortress offers historical exploration and open spaces for children. In Helsinki, Esplanadi Park is great for relaxation, and the Oodi Helsinki Central Library has dedicated spaces for children. The town of Naantali is home to Moominworld, a popular children's attraction. National parks like Nuuksio also offer accessible trails for families.
Where can I experience local culture and cuisine in Southern Finland?
To immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine, visit the Vanha Kauppahalli (Old Market Hall), Helsinki, located by the port, where you can sample Finnish specialties. The Old Town of Porvoo is also famous for its romantic atmosphere, art galleries, antique shops, and local delicacies like Runeberg torte. Fiskars Village is known for its design and craft heritage, offering a unique cultural experience.
What are some notable viewpoints in Southern Finland?
Southern Finland offers several scenic viewpoints. The Senate Square (Senaatintori) in Helsinki provides a grand perspective of the Helsinki Cathedral and surrounding historical buildings. The Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki, standing freely on rocks at the harbor's edge, also offers impressive views. For natural vistas, national parks like Repovesi and Nuuksio feature high cliffs and elevated spots with panoramic views of their landscapes.
Are there any unique industrial heritage sites in the region?
Yes, the Verla Groundwood and Board Mill in Jaala, Kouvola, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's an important industrial monument that offers a fascinating glimpse into Finland's industrial past and is well worth a visit for those interested in heritage.
What is the best time of year to visit Southern Finland's attractions?
The best time to visit Southern Finland largely depends on your interests. Summer (June-August) offers long daylight hours, pleasant temperatures, and is ideal for enjoying national parks, outdoor activities, and city exploration. Spring (May) and autumn (September-October) provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds, perfect for hiking and cultural visits. Winter (November-March) is magical for snow activities and experiencing the festive atmosphere, especially in cities like Helsinki.
Can I find easy hiking trails in Southern Finland?
Yes, Southern Finland has many easy hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. For example, the Haukankierros Trail in Nuuksio National Park is a relatively easy 4 km loop. The Lake Savojärvi Trail in Kurjenrahka National Park and the Seurasaari Loop Trail are also popular easy options. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes in Southern Finland guide page.
What are some lesser-known or 'off the beaten path' attractions in Southern Finland?
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting Fiskars Village, known for its design and craft heritage, offering a charming experience away from the bustling cities. The Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge near Kotka, built for Tsar Alexander III, provides a unique historical insight. For nature, explore Liesjärvi National Park for its peaceful lakes and ridge trails, or Torronsuo National Park, home to one of Southern Finland's largest bogs with an excellent boardwalk.
Are there any coastal or beach destinations in Southern Finland?
Yes, Southern Finland offers beautiful coastal experiences. Hanko, located at the southernmost tip of the country, is known as Finland's 'beach town' with sandy shores, charming wooden villas, and stunning sunsets. The region also includes the Gulf of Finland National Park and Ekenäs Archipelago National Park, offering opportunities for island hopping and enjoying the Baltic Sea scenery.
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