Tampere

Scotsman James Finlayson's industrial district, one of the biggest in the Nordic countries, is a diverse cultural centre today, housing several cafés, restaurants, and other places of interest such as the children's cathedral, the Spy Museum, and Westras, the free Labour Museum. Don't miss the Finlayson outlet to get some design inspiration.

The former Workers' House, which hosted Lenin and Stalin in their first meeting, provides an evocative setting to tell you about Finnish-Soviet relations and the life of one of the most significant communist leaders. The place is also unique in that it is the only museum dedicated to Lenin outside Russia in the whole world.

Opened in 1901, Tampere Market Hall is the largest indoor market in the Nordic countries, therefore, the perfect place to soak up some Finnish culture and mingle with the locals doing their grocery shopping. It's also the perfect place to try the local black sausage (mustamakkara), among other delicacies.

Näsinpuisto Park is the green oasis of Tampere with plenty to do and see: browse the craft shops of Tallipiha Stable Yards or hunt the mini sculptures of the Fairy Tale Park. The Baroque Näsilinna palace, once the home of Peter von Nottbeck, an owner of the Finlayson cotton mill, is also found here, housing a museum and an elegant café-restaurant.

The historic Tampella factory hall has found new life as a cultural hub, housing a diverse array of attractions. Within its storied walls, visitors can explore the wonders of the Natural History Museum, delve into the world of postal history at the Postal Museum, and marvel at the beauty of minerals in the Mineral Museum. For sports enthusiasts, the Hockey Hall of Fame pays homage to the nation's passion for the game.

Muumimuseo is a whimsical experiential art museum dedicated to Tove Jansson and her world-famous comic strip heroes, the Moomins. This enchanting place boasts a wide selection of models and computer displays, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating world of these beloved characters. Don't forget to explore the delightful gift shop, where you can find a treasure trove of Moomin-themed items to take this adorable family home with you.

Tampere Cathedral celebrated as the most beautiful church in Finland, is a masterpiece of the National Romantic style, meticulously designed by Lars Sonck and constructed between 1902 and 1907. Within its sacred walls, visitors are captivated by famous frescoes, including the evocative "Garden of Death" by Finnish artist Hugo Simberg.

The church of the Kaleva parish, inaugurated in 1966, stands as a testament to modern architectural brilliance. Its innovative design, marked by an extensive use of space and light, sets it apart as one of the most exceptional religious landmarks not only in Finland but also on an international level.

Take a romantic walk along the well-preserved wooden houses in what previously was the largest workers' district in Tampere, built on a sand ridge shaped by the ice age. The area's famous landmark is the Shot Tower, and Rajaportti Sauna, Finland's oldest public sauna, is also found here.

No visit to Finland is complete without a relaxing sauna session. Built in 1906 in Pispala, this public sauna is Finland’s oldest and is the perfect place to relax in the löyly, the steam rising up from hot stones.

Tampere City Library, a modern architectural marvel designed by Raili and Reima Pietilä, graces the city with its unique combination of styles. Constructed in the 1980s, this library is a three-level wonder, featuring impressive reading rooms, exhibition spaces, and even a cosy café. It's not just a hub for literature; the library also hosts the captivating Moominvalley exhibition and the fascinating Tampere Mineral Museum.