Get to know Finland's market halls

In the old days, Finns did their grocery shopping at local marketplaces, where traders, farmers, bakers, butchers, and fishermen gathered. In the 19th century, European-style market halls became popular because indoor halls offered a more comfortable shopping experience. To this day, they remain the best place to explore local products, immerse yourself in Finnish food culture, and discover new tastes, all under one roof.

Here's a look at traditional Finnish market halls across the country.

Turku Market Hall is a lively meeting place where traditional craftsmanship meets global flavors. Opened in 1896, it’s Finland’s second-oldest market hall and a true cultural heritage gem. The atmosphere is created by a mix of butchers, fishmongers, bakers, tea and spice vendors, and local producers. The hall offers everything from classic Finnish pastries to dishes inspired by Mexico, Vietnam, and the Middle East.

If you'd like to find high quality reindeer and game meat, pop by at Heinoset shop, which has been operating since 1969. Wine lovers shouldn’t miss Vive, the cutest little wine corner in Turku. If you're craving something sweet, stop by one of the many bakeries and try a freshly baked leivonnainen – that's Finnish for pastry. A viineri (Danish pastry) is a popular choice. Despite the name, it's a true Finnish classic.

Kuopio Market Hall has been the heart of this Lakeland city since its opening day in 1902. The Savo region is known for its hearty delicacies, the most famous being kalakukko, a rye-crust pastry filled with local small fish. Visit Irene Partanen’s legendary shop in the market hall to buy one of these local treats. In addition to kalakukko, try Karelian pies, bilberry pastries, meat pies, and local rye bread, and for dinner pick up some fresh lake fish from local fishermen. When you need a break, stop by Café Trube, which has been serving coffee and pastries to shoppers since 1913.

Oulu Market Hall has been welcoming visitors since 1901. Inside this landmark Neo-Gothic building, you’ll find traditional fish, meat, and vegetable vendors, along with cafés and shops selling crafts, gifts, and home décor. In front of the market hall, you'll find the famous Toripolliisi statue guarding over the city.

One highlight of the hall is Kylmänen, a game shop that has operated since the 1930s, specializing in Finnish reindeer and elk, as well as wild birds and delicacies like Serrano ham and Parma prosciutto. Kalaliike Pekuri, with over 45 years in the hall, offers fresh fish, smoked and cured specialties, and local fish products straight from nearby waters. The cozy Kauppahallin Kahvila serves up Finnish comfort foods from morning to lunch. Start your day with traditional rice porridge or stop by later for salmon soup, rössypottu (blood sausage stew), or reindeer dishes.

Vaasa Market Hall may be small, but it’s full of charm. Housed in a striking Gothic Revival building, Vaasa Market Hall is a true landmark in the seaside city of Vaasa. Stalls offer fresh local produce, fish, meats, cheeses, and veggies, along with cafés and eateries. Make sure to visit Ruotsala Fish Shop, the city’s only dedicated fishmonger, known for local catches from the Kvarken Archipelago – a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site – and specialties like Sundom smoked fish. For dessert, stop at Caffettino Little Bakery, that blends Finnish and Italian café culture with its organic house-roasted coffee and fusion pastries.

The history of Lahti Market Hall goes back more than a hundred years. Today, products from over a hundred small local producers can be found under one roof at the Hallin Heila store. From bakeries to breweries, cheese shops to fishmongers, you’ll discover the best of what Finland has to offer. The market hall’s own café-restaurant is a popular lunch spot, and its cake selection deserves a special mention.

Further north in Lakeland, the Iisalmi Market Hall makes for a unique pitstop on a road trip. The building has an interesting history – it even served as an ammunitions depot during the Second World War. The highlight is the traditional butcher’s shop, Väisäsen Kotiliha, which also offers homely, traditional Finnish lunches. Don’t skip dessert: the local pastries are to die for.