Top things to do in Finland in June

June marks the beginning of Finland’s golden season. Nature is lush, lakes are warming up, and the days stretch endlessly. In Lapland, the sun doesn’t set at all. Midsummer, juhannus in Finnish, is one of Finland’s most treasured traditions, celebrated with bonfires, saunas, and time spent in nature with family and friends.

In June, Finland offers endless daylight, vibrant festivals, and nature in full bloom from midsummer bonfires and coastal cycling to lakefront cottage escapes and golden-hour hikes under the Midnight Sun.

Here’s a look at some of the best things to do in June across the country. 

June brings a lively rhythm to the Helsinki region. While some locals head to the countryside, many stay to enjoy the season’s seaside atmosphere, long evenings, and cultural happenings. Unwind in one of the city’s iconic public saunas, enjoy the buzzing summer terraces, savour Nordic flavours at local restaurants and bistros, and end the day with a cocktail under the lingering light of a white night.

Celebrate Helsinki Day

On June 12th, Helsinki celebrates its birthday with Helsinki Day, a citywide celebration filled with free concerts, exhibitions, and family events.

Experience Midsummer in the city

Later in the month, take a ferry to Pihlajasaari or Seurasaari, where traditional Midsummer bonfires light up the night. The Seurasaari Midsummer Bonfires Festival features folk music, maypole dancing, and a festive, welcoming atmosphere.

Party at Helsinki Pride

At the end of June, Helsinki transforms into a vibrant hub of inclusivity and celebration during Helsinki Pride Week, taking place each year at the end of June. As Finland's largest human rights and cultural event, it offers a diverse programme of activities promoting LGBTQIA+ rights and visibility.

Visit an ironworks village

Beyond the capital city, June is a perfect time to visit the region’s charming and historical ironwork villages, ruukkikylät. Spend a day in Fiskars or Billnäs, both under two hours from the city, where you can stroll through artisan workshops, design boutiques and summer cafés in idyllic green surroundings.

For more information about events in Helsinki, visit Helsinki Events Calendar by Myhelsinki.fi.

June is when Finland’s coast and archipelago truly come alive. Ferries connect the islands, harbours hum with activity, and cafés and bnb's open their doors for the season. Also, Finland's old capital Turku comes alive with some of the best spots for foodies in the country.

Cycle through the Archipelago Trail

One of the best ways to experience the maritime charm of southwest Finland is by travelling the Archipelago Trail, a 250 km route that weaves through dozens of islands and coastal villages between Pargas, Nagu, Korpo, Houtskär and Iniö.

Whether you travel by bike, car, bus or even on foot, the Archipelago Trail offers incredible nature, family-friendly activities, local food experiences, and seaside accommodation. The full loop takes about 2 to 5 days, and is open from May to September, with one fee-based ferry between Houtskär and Iniö.

Visit a lighthouse island

If time allows, consider a visit to Bengtskär, the tallest lighthouse in the Nordics, located just off the coast from Kasnäs. Accessible by boat tour, this remote island lighthouse offers sweeping sea views, dramatic history, and even overnight stays for those wanting a truly unforgettable island experience. Remember to book in advance.

Meander through an Idyllic wooden town

Looking for something more historic? Visit the atmospheric wooden towns of Rauma and Old Porvoo. With their cobbled streets, artisan shops, and pastel-hued façades, these towns offer a slow and scenic step into Finland’s past. A slice of cake on a sunny café terrace never hurts either. Here's our article about the iconic wooden towns in Finland.

In June, Lakeland settles into its most iconic rhythm: long days, calm waters, and the timeless tradition of cottage life. This is where Finns go to relax, and it’s also where visitors can experience the deep stillness and beauty of summer in the north.

Try cottage living

Rent a lakeside cabin with a private sauna, a classic Finnish experience. Whether you're drawn to the vast shores of Lake Saimaa or the tranquil stretches of Lake Päijänne, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nothing but water, trees and sky. Take a dip in the refreshing lake, paddle a wooden rowboat, or join a guided SUP or canoe tour from places like Oravi or Puumala, where nature is always just a few quiet strokes away.

Explore some of Finland’s most beautiful kayaking routes

With thousands of lakes and quiet waterways, Lakeland is a dream destination for canoeing and kayaking. In June, explore scenic routes in Linnansaari or Kolovesi National Parks, or paddle through the clear waters of Lake Päijänne. Stop at island fire pits for lunch or stay overnight in a lakeside hut; it’s summer at its most serene.

Visit a local market place

Don’t miss a visit to a local summer market square, tori, where stalls brim with fresh strawberries, peas, and other seasonal treats. Grab a cup of coffee, enjoy some warm muikkus (fried vendace) or a plate of Finnish fried pancakes, muurinpohjalettu, with jam and whipped cream.

In June, Lapland is drenched in light. Quite literally. Above the Arctic Circle, the Midnight Sun keeps the sky glowing around the clock, making it the ideal time for long days in nature and late-night adventures you won't forget. 

Try hiking and mountain biking

Go hiking or mountain biking in places like Ylläs, Pyhä-Luosto, or Saariselkä, where marked summer trails and bike rentals are easy to find. Trails wind through fells, pine forests and open tundra-like landscapes, offering everything from gentle paths to challenging climbs. Many routes include scenic fire pits, lean-tos and panoramic lookout points to pause under the Midnight Sun.

One-of-a-kind movie festival in Sodankylä

June is also the start of Lapland’s summer event season. One standout is the Midnight Sun Film Festival in Sodankylä, held in mid-June. It is a legendary celebration of global cinema where screenings run day and night, mirroring the unending daylight. It’s a rare chance to see arthouse films, meet directors (even Francis Ford Coppola has been there!), and mingle under a sky that never darkens.

Try an activity under the Midnight Sun

There’s something surreal about wandering through Lapland’s wild landscapes at midnight with the sun still glowing softly above. Join a guided walking tour, a husky or horse ride, or a photography excursion to capture the golden light dancing over fells and forests. Here's a link to a selection of Midnight Sun tours in Lapland.