In Finland, the world’s happiest country for seven consecutive years now, Tampere is the most beloved city. 38% of Finns see themselves living in a blend of city life and nature. It integrates culture, food, and city convenience with the natural beauty that surrounds it. Besides that, Tampere is known as the Sauna Capital of the World.
Whether you’re a sauna enthusiast, a food lover, or a nature explorer, Tampere promises an unforgettable experience.
The Sauna Capital of the World
Tampere proudly holds the title with 66 public saunas that invite visitors to experience Finnish sauna culture authentically. The city’s sauna tradition’s deep roots reach back to Pispala‘s Rajaportti Sauna, founded in 1906 — the oldest operating Finnish public sauna.
Modern establishments like Sauna Restaurant Kuuma offer a cozy, New Nordic-style atmosphere with wood-heated and smoke saunas, which both first-time visitors and experienced sauna-goers can enjoy. The good thing about Kuuma is that you can have dinner on-site to satisfy that post-sauna hunger.
No visit to Tampere is complete without a trip to the legendary Rauhaniemi Folk Spa. Its captivating lakeside views comprise a serene backdrop for traditional Finnish saunas and the new yurt-style Sauna Temple. Its proximity to popular beaches makes it a convenient summertime spot. Winter visitors can dare to try authentic ice swimming.
Visitors to the beautiful Pereensaaren Sauna will find a laid-back sauna experience with breathtaking lake views and several swimming options. Each Tampere sauna offers a unique experience.
Explore Tampere Beyond Saunas
Beyond the saunas, Tampere activities highlight its history and natural beauty. The Roof Walk at Finlayson offers elevated city views while guides share local history. The region is home to the Finlayson Art Area, which features free art exhibitions every summer and year-round museums.
From there, head to Tampere Hall, the largest cultural center in the Nordic countries, to observe the changing exhibition area. Tampere Hall also houses the world’s only Moomin Museum, wherein fans of Tove Jansson’s IP can see her work in great detail.
In 2019, Tampere Hall became carbon-neutral, partly due to its use of renewable energy, energy-efficient improvements, and eco-friendly initiatives like rooftop solar power plants and a rooftop garden.
For those looking for a comfortable stay right next to the Tammerkoski River, the heart of the city, the Radisson Blu Grand Hotel Tammer offers an exceptional experience. The property combines old-time charm with modern comforts. Some rooms even feature private saunas right in your room.
Tampere’s “secondhand” culture celebrates hand-me-downs and heirlooms through its network of secondhand shops curated by Second Hand Tampere. Vintage Garden and other community consignment shops offer sustainable fashion with unique pieces, drawing both vintage enthusiasts and eco-conscious shoppers.
Exploring Tampere’s Food Culture
Spas are not Tampere’s only luxury offerings. The area’s culinary scene offers visitors a taste of traditional Finnish cuisine, like black sausage and Finnish cheese, alongside access to Tampere Market Hall, a historic indoor market dating back to 1901.
Tampere cafes and restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus that utilize rotating ingredients as they become available. Restaurant Villit ja Viinit’s menu comprises ingredients from no more than 40 miles away. Their innovative dishes pair with fine wines or non-alcoholic juices in a cozy atmosphere. Its impeccable service and commitment to quality make it a favorite among locals and visitors.
Ravinteli Haarla also offers a dining experience with a menu emphasizing local seasonal ingredients. Their warm ambiance and excellent service merge traditional Finnish flavors with modern techniques. Their menu offers the local KOTO Spirit, an artisan distillery founded by three cousins in Lempäälä. KOTO’s award-winning, must-try dry gin stole gold in the International Wine and Spirit Competition’s (IWSC) Gin & Tonic category.
Adventurous Ways To Explore Tampere’s Nature
Nature is never far away in Tampere. The city’s surrounding lakes and forests make it easy to escape the city and connect with the environment. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking along scenic trails or kayaking on Lake Näsijärvi. Visitors can also bicycle through forests or picnic in one of the town’s many parks.
The city’s natural beauty peaks during morning walks on Pyynikki Ridge, the world’s largest gravel ridge. Visitors can climb the centuries-old Pyynikki Observation Tower and relish breathtaking views of Tampere. After a morning walk, indulge in Pyynikin Munkkikahvila’s doughnuts, which many claim are the best in Finland.
For a more immersive nature experience, “Gone with the Forest” offers revitalizing activities and is perfect for nature lovers. Dancer-turned-nature enthusiast Karoliina Laitinen leads the experience, emphasizing sustainability and environmental respect. Participants sample wild berries, walk along forest trails, and enjoy forest sounds and scents. All the while, serene surroundings work their stress-reducing magic.
River floating in Lempäälä’s Kuokkalankoski Rapids is a unique, adventurous, but relaxing experience for adventure seekers. Safety boats accompany participants as they don waterproof suits and navigate the river, enjoying the tranquil — and occasionally thrilling — currents.
This activity, which mimics the effects of deep sleep, allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty and enjoy unspoiled nature.
Embrace Happiness in Tampere
Tampere is a city that combines wellness, culture, and natural beauty effortlessly. Its welcoming, laid-back atmosphere and friendly people make it a relatively unknown bucket list destination. Through its soothing saunas, nature expeditions, and culturally rich culinary offerings, among other enticing amenities, Tampere shows visitors it prioritizes residents’ and newcomers’ happiness and well-being.
