Title: Southern Finland Travel Guide: Best of Southern Finland, Finland Travel 2026 | Expedia.co.uk [Hotels in Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Finland-Hotels.d6056195.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Holiday Rentals in Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Finland-Holiday-Rentals.d6056195.Travel-Guide-HolidayRentals)[Flights to Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Southern-Finland.d6056195.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Things-To-Do-In-Southern-Finland.d6056195.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Southern Finland Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Southern-Finland.d6056195.Car-Hire-Guide)[Southern Finland Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Southern-Finland.d6056195.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Southern Finland Travel Guide ## Tourist Guide ![Helsinki showing heritage architecture and night scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/178261/0f58e550-8a8b-43ba-9c7b-e5691354eaca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Helsinki showing heritage architecture and night scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/178261/0f58e550-8a8b-43ba-9c7b-e5691354eaca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Finlandia Hall showing theatre scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501186/73099c57-6be1-42cf-acf7-90865b90d3e8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Suomenlinna Fortress featuring general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501184/90c382fc-3669-48e2-a982-c2cce633963b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Southern Finland](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6056195/ed36a197-ced4-4995-b6ec-1e8fd02fba68.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Southern Finland Where to stay Things to do #### Lively cities, secluded villages, miles of pretty coastline and unspoiled national parks feature in Finland’s most densely populated region. From the nation’s vibrant capital city to quaint port towns and pristine wilderness areas, Southern Finland is a tourist region with varied attractions. The region stretches from Finland’s border with Russia, along the Gulf of Finland to the Baltic Sea and out across an archipelago of 6,500-plus islands. Southern Finland is also one of the country’s earliest inhabited regions, making it a destination loved by history buffs as well as outdoor enthusiasts. The region’s heart is the Finnish capital, [Helsinki](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Helsinki.d178261.Holidays-City-Breaks). Its galleries, museums, cafés and centuries-old landmarks exude an air of sophistication and cultural vibrancy. Visit the Ateneum Art Museum and the grandiose Helsinki Cathedral. Attend free festivals at Esplanade Park and tour the UNESCO-protected Soumenlinna Sea Fortress. Travel inland from Helsinki to Hämeenlinna, famous for its medieval castle and the Aulanko Nature Reserve. Head along the eastern coast to Kotka, a gateway to beach, sailing, rafting and islands trips. Nearby Hamina is recognizable for its wooden architecture and star-shaped forts. Pick berries while walking around the lakes and woods in Kouvola. A 2-hour drive west of Helsinki is Finland’s oldest city, Turku, which dates back to the 1200s. Keep heading west to unwind at the tranquil summer retreat of Naantali and admire the wooden houses of storybook Rauma on the west coast. Relax on pristine beaches in Hanko and learn about Finnish mining history in Lohja. Dedicate time to exploring Southern Finland’s beguiling national parks. Hike amid the pine forests, hills and lakes of Repovesi National Park and spot myriad birdlife in Torronsuo National Park. Noux National Park offers excellent hiking and camping close to Helsinki. Rent a bike and discover the quiet country roads of the coastal Uusimaa region. Island-hop around the Åaland Islands, an autonomous, Swedish-speaking archipelago located at the entrance to the Gulf of Bothnia. Worth visiting are Brändö, Kumlinge, Kökar, Sottunga and Vårdö. Reach Southern Finland by flying to Helsinki. Then travel between destinations by bike, boat, rented car and public buses. Summer temperatures are mild and enhanced by the extraordinary midnight sun. With the cold and snowy winter months come opportunities to spot the dazzling northern lights. ### Where to stay in Southern Finland ![Senate Square showing street scenes](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/507708/967f0136-f4a9-4f5d-959f-f30aef346d7d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Helsinki City Centre Noted for its museums and live music, there's plenty to explore in Helsinki City Centre. Top attractions like Senate Square and Presidential Palace are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Vironkatu Station or Hallituskatu Station to see more of the city. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Helsinki-City-Centre.dx553248633981744117) ![Old Church of Helsinki which includes a garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6252018/5a8c3e80-c722-466c-877e-bb660ef72a19.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Kamppi 4.5/5(80 area reviews) Travellers choose Kamppi for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Kamppi Station or Simonkatu Tram Stop and check out top sights like Tennispalatsi Finnkino Cinema. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Kamppi.dx6278775) ![Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6061897/be5772fd-b397-4fe7-99a4-ac743a459c09.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Kluuvi 4.5/5(53 area reviews) Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Kluuvi. If sightseeing is on the list, Helsinki Central Library Oodi is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Rautatientori Station or Rautatieasema Station to see more of the area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Kluuvi.dx178661) ![Pasila tain station in Finland with trains arriving; Shutterstock ID 465841805](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6139010/5a293f58-f981-4802-8221-3040b0fcfcb0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Pasila 3.5/5(7 area reviews) You might enjoy the restaurants while in Pasila. Mall of Tripla is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Pasilan asema Tram Stop or Esterinportti Station to see more of the city. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Pasila.dx6139010) ![Helsinki_Kaartinkaupunki_6361129_09](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6361129/1c631f99-96e1-439c-9d39-11e81bfc0cb1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Kaartinkaupunki 4.5/5(27 area reviews) Known for its ample dining options and captivating waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Kaartinkaupunki. You can visit top attractions like Design Museum and Kauppatori Market Square, and jump on the metro at Kolmikulma Station or Etelaranta Station to see more of the city. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Kaartinkaupunki.dx6361129) ![Katajanokka which includes heritage architecture and a church or cathedral](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/178663/71e7bc8d-fd08-43ba-bb61-4762cac7e650.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Katajanokka 4.5/5(39 area reviews) Known for its abundant dining options and waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Katajanokka. Top attractions like Allas Sea Pool and Bicyclean Helsinki are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Vyokatu Tram Station or Mastokatu Station to see more of the city. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Katajanokka.dx178663) - Top hotels in Southern Finland - Top Holiday Rentals in Southern Finland ![Marski by Scandic](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/6800/6741/56b7c2bf_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Marski by Scandic Mannerheimintie 10 Helsinki £101 15 Feb - 16 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this hotel in Helsinki. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ... 9/10 Wonderful! (1,611 reviews) Amazing Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=15%2F02%2F2026&endDate=16%2F02%2F2026&selected=6741&PinnedHotelID=6741&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6056195) ![Comfort Hotel Helsinki Airport](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/102000000/101300000/101292500/101292489/627385c7_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Comfort Hotel Helsinki Airport Taivastie 1 Vantaa Uusimaa £108 7 Feb - 8 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in Vantaa. Enjoy free breakfast, parking (surcharge) and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Finnish Aviation Museum and Jumbo ... 9/10 Wonderful! (1,237 reviews) Great greakfast Reviewed on 24 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=07%2F02%2F2026&endDate=08%2F02%2F2026&selected=101292489&PinnedHotelID=101292489&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6056195) ![Scandic Grand Central Helsinki](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59660000/59652600/59652561/579fea0b_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Scandic Grand Central Helsinki Vilhonkatu 13 Helsinki £106 15 Feb - 16 Feb includes taxes & fees Stay at this hotel in Helsinki. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness centre and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ... 9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,071 reviews) nice room Reviewed on 22 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=15%2F02%2F2026&endDate=16%2F02%2F2026&selected=59652561&PinnedHotelID=59652561&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=6056195) [See all 1,561 properties in Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=31%2F01%2F2026&endDate=01%2F02%2F2026®ionId=6056195) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Bob W Helsinki Kamppi](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/116000000/115570000/115566200/115566172/d491792c_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Bob W Helsinki Kamppi 20 Lönnrotinkatu Helsinki Stay at this apartment in Helsinki. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Alexander Theater and Sinebrychoff Art ... 9/10 Wonderful! (170 reviews) The room was spacious and clean. The kitchen area was very appreciated. Small detail but I also loved the pressure of the shower. Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Hotels-Bob-W-Helsinki-Kamppi.h115566172.Hotel-Information) ![Bob W KOTI Katajanokka](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/77000000/76610000/76603300/76603279/38707fa6_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Bob W KOTI Katajanokka 4 Kruunuvuorenkatu Helsinki Stay at this luxury apartment in Helsinki. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking (surcharge) and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Helsinki Sky Wheel ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (347 reviews) Perfect place to stay Reviewed on 23 Jan 2026 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Hotels-KOTI-Hotel-Katajanokka.h76603279.Hotel-Information) ![Unity Helsinki - A Studio Hotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/77000000/76310000/76305200/76305167/w3835h2148x5y6-4b33709d_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Unity Helsinki - A Studio Hotel 22 Välimerenkatu Helsinki Stay at this aparthotel in Helsinki. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, a rooftop terrace and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (208 reviews) The room and hotel are very nice. However, when I arrived, there was a lady before me checking in. The receptionist seemed stressed and not very friendly. After a while it was my turn to check in. The receptionist wasn't very welcoming and during my check in, the lady who had checked in before me ... Reviewed on 2 Nov 2025 [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Hotels-UNITY-Helsinki.h76305167.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Southern Finland](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=6056195&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Southern Finland hotel availability [Tonight ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=2026-01-30&endDate=2026-01-31)[30 Jan - 31 Jan](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=2026-01-30&endDate=2026-01-31) [Tomorrow night ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=2026-01-31&endDate=2026-02-01)[31 Jan - 1 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=2026-01-31&endDate=2026-02-01) [This weekend ](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=30%2F01%2F2026&endDate=01%2F02%2F2026)[30 Jan - 1 Feb](https://expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=6056195&startDate=30%2F01%2F2026&endDate=01%2F02%2F2026) ### Popular places to visit ![Scenic summer aerial view of Suomenlinna](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6146531/99245133-d1de-4dbc-b132-24f50610fce0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre Learn about the events happening in Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre during your trip to Helsinki. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this walkable area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Exhibition-And-Convention-Centre-Pasila.d6146531.Attraction) ![Helsinki Cathedral showing heritage architecture and a church or cathedral](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501191/7b6165d7-5c8c-45af-ae93-f04fcb797876.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Helsinki Cathedral Stop at this beautiful Finnish Evangelical Lutheran cathedral to admire its stunning architecture and see a magnificent collection of zinc sculptures. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Cathedral-Helsinki-City-Centre.d501191.Attraction) ![Helsinki_HartwallArena_6061903_02](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6061903/837163af-2513-46c9-abbd-3c9d18a493a4.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Veikkaus Arena Catch an event at Veikkaus Arena during your trip to Helsinki. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this culturally rich area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Hartwall-Arena-Pasila.d6061903.Attraction) ![Finlandia Hall showing modern architecture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501186/a144a2f8-7ff7-4c72-9dba-7e29800b8835.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Finlandia Hall Attend an international music event and take a guided tour of this multipurpose Helsinki venue to learn about its significant architectural history. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Finlandia-Hall-Etelainen-District.d501186.Attraction) ![Helsinki_HelsinkiIceHall_6061911_03](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6061911/026a17b4-d226-4396-a2fe-963fd5c20320.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Helsinki Ice Hall Catch an event at Helsinki Ice Hall during your trip to Helsinki. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and shops in this culturally rich area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Ice-Hall-Etelainen-District.d6061911.Attraction) ![Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Image shot 2015](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501194/35f44c48-2779-4984-a1af-5ee8e571a809.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Olympic Stadium Catch an event at Olympic Stadium during your trip to Helsinki. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this culturally rich area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Olympic-Stadium-Etelainen-District.d501194.Attraction) ## Cities near Southern Finland ![Helsinki featuring a marina, a bay or harbour and general coastal views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/178261/fced659c-eadb-4b9d-a7c5-6579d0a72586.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Helsinki ![Lappeenranta port with boat at autumn day. Sights of Lappeenranta harbor and garden, beautiful fall tree yellow leaves amazing view. October autumn park foliage and lake fog scene, travel in Finland.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/2124/68ac8211-44c5-4ed8-8c6e-29af4848aa1a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Lappeenranta ![Mikkili](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/2301/b9d44422-80b0-43a0-8464-9bfd9006e9c1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Mikkeli ![Adobe](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/3310/5cc7932a-041a-4828-b78b-2ca4c22b8193.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Savonlinna - Cities near Southern Finland - Places of interest [Helsinki](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki.dx178261)[Lappeenranta](https://expedia.co.uk/Lappeenranta.dx2124)[Mikkeli](https://expedia.co.uk/Mikkeli.dx2301)[Savonlinna](https://expedia.co.uk/Savonlinna.dx3310)[Turku](https://expedia.co.uk/Turku.dx3463)[Naantali](https://expedia.co.uk/Naantali.dx4222)[Karjaa](https://expedia.co.uk/Karjaa.dx4224)[Lohja](https://expedia.co.uk/Lohja.dx4231)[Uusikaupunki](https://expedia.co.uk/Uusikaupunki.dx4235)[Pargas](https://expedia.co.uk/Pargas.dx4236)[Vantaa](https://expedia.co.uk/Vantaa.dx4240)[Porvoo](https://expedia.co.uk/Porvoo.dx4689)[Espoo](https://expedia.co.uk/Espoo.dx5270)[Imatra](https://expedia.co.uk/Imatra.dx5272)[Jarvenpaa](https://expedia.co.uk/Jarvenpaa.dx5273)[Kotka](https://expedia.co.uk/Kotka.dx5275)[Lahti](https://expedia.co.uk/Lahti.dx5276)[Riihimaki](https://expedia.co.uk/Riihimaki.dx5277)[Kaarina](https://expedia.co.uk/Kaarina.dx6087)[Rauma](https://expedia.co.uk/Rauma.dx9595)[Kouvola](https://expedia.co.uk/Kouvola.dx10204)[Forssa](https://expedia.co.uk/Forssa.dx177985)[Heinola](https://expedia.co.uk/Heinola.dx177986)[Royla](https://expedia.co.uk/Royla.dx178650)[Masala](https://expedia.co.uk/Masala.dx178656) - [Helsinki Exhibition and Convention Centre ](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Exhibition-And-Convention-Centre-Pasila.d6146531.Attraction) - [Viking Line Terminal ](https://expedia.co.uk/Viking-Line-Terminal-Turku-Harbour.d553248621563233648.Attraction) - [Helsinki Cathedral ](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Cathedral-Helsinki-City-Centre.d501191.Attraction) - [Finlandia Hall ](https://expedia.co.uk/Finlandia-Hall-Etelainen-District.d501186.Attraction) - [Helsinki Ice Hall ](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Ice-Hall-Etelainen-District.d6061911.Attraction) - [Olympic Stadium ](https://expedia.co.uk/Olympic-Stadium-Etelainen-District.d501194.Attraction) - [Kauppatori Market Square ](https://expedia.co.uk/Kauppatori-Market-Square-Kaartinkaupunki.d6061913.Attraction) - [Senate Square ](https://expedia.co.uk/Senate-Square-Helsinki-City-Centre.d507708.Attraction) - [Sello Shopping Centre ](https://expedia.co.uk/Sello-Shopping-Centre-Leppavaara.d6278947.Attraction) - [Helsinki Zoo ](https://expedia.co.uk/Helsinki-Zoo-Kaakkoinen-District.d501195.Attraction) - [Moominworld ](https://expedia.co.uk/Moominworld-Naantali.d6109948.Attraction) - [Stockmann ](https://expedia.co.uk/Stockmann-Helsinki-City-Centre.d6061895.Attraction) - [Linnanmaki Amusement Park ](https://expedia.co.uk/Linnanmaki-Amusement-Park-Keskinen-District.d501177.Attraction) - [Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art ](https://expedia.co.uk/Kiasma-Museum-Of-Contemporary-Art-Helsinki-City-Centre.d6061897.Attraction) - [National Theater ](https://expedia.co.uk/National-Theater-Helsinki-City-Centre.d501188.Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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