Discover the breathtaking national parks in Finland

Finland’s 41 national parks offer some of the most spectacular and accessible nature experiences in Europe. From the sea-kissed shores of the Archipelago and serene lakes of Lakeland to the forest trails near Helsinki and the untamed fells of Lapland, each park showcases the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. 

Whether you're planning a day trip from Helsinki or a multi-day hiking adventure in the north, you'll find pristine trails, quiet beauty, and a deep connection to nature — all year round, and always free to explore.

With 41 parks across the country, each shaped by its own landscape and local culture, there's something for everyone, from relaxed day hikers to seasoned wilderness adventurers. Most national parks are accessible year-round.

In the south, you’ll find easy-to-reach parks like Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi, where quiet forests and lakes sit just a short trip from Helsinki. They're ideal for a quick escape into nature complete with marked trails, campfire spots and occasional forest reindeer sightings if you’re lucky. 

Lakeland’s parks, such as Linnansaari and Kolovesi, are shaped by water. Here, the best way to explore is by canoe or kayak, gliding between forested islands, spotting ospreys, and perhaps even glimpsing the rare Saimaa ringed seal.

On the west coast and in the archipelago, places like Bothnian Bay and Archipelago National Park combine sea and silence. Wind-swept skerries, fishing heritage, and lighthouses make for a truly coastal experience, where the horizon feels endless and the sea air clears your thoughts. 

Lapland, meanwhile, offers vast, untamed fells in parks like Pallas-Yllästunturi and Urho Kekkonen. These northern giants let you roam through tundra-like landscapes under the Midnight Sun – or in winter, snowshoe under the Northern Lights.

There are various ways to experience and enjoy the clean Nordic nature, so whether you are travelling solo or with kids, the parks have plenty of options to choose from. Maybe you want to go fishing in Lapland and do short hikes on accessible routes? Start preparing your trip to a nature reserve with the help of the travel planner.

Make every effort to preserve the wildlife. Show a good example by collecting your rubbish and the trash left by other hikers and taking it to an appropriate waste bin.

If you wander in the forests in the summer and autumn seasons, feel free to pick berries and mushrooms! You are allowed to pick them free of charge – just make sure you get familiar with Everyman’s Right beforehand. 

You can light your campfire only where it is allowed, and camping stoves should be used whenever possible. Read the visitor guidelines to follow the outdoor etiquette in nature reserves.

They say there’s no such thing as bad weather, just unsuitable clothing. Make yourself a favour, and ensure you have weather and season-appropriate gear before entering the wilderness. A good idea is to go through some ready-made packing checklists beforehand.

No car? No problem. You can get to most National Parks environment-friendly by buses and trains. In the Archipelago and Coast Region, you may need a boat or a ferry ride to fully explore the area as the National Parks often extend to the isles.

Start by planning your route to the nature reserve. Once you have booked your trip, you might also want to consider offsetting your carbon footprint.

VR, National Railways of Finland

Perille.fi travel planner