Central Finland Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Central Finland with our detailed travel guide. Discover the best things to do, stay, eat, and buy in this Nordic region.


Introduction to Central Finland

Central Finland, located in Finnish Lakeland, is a beautiful region in the heart of Finland. Known for its pristine lakes, lush forests, and charming towns, Central Finland is a popular destination for both adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. With its strategic location, Central Finland serves as an excellent base for exploring other Nordic countries and European destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Central Finland

If you are planning a trip to Central Finland, here are some fantastic places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alvar Aalto Museum
  • Jyväskylä Art Museum
  • The Craft Museum of Finland
  • Keuruu Old Church
  • The Finnish Forest Museum Lusto
  • The Finnish Airforce Museum
  • The Korpilahti Local Museum

Natural Attractions of Central Finland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Päijänne National Park
  • Jyväsjärvi Lake
  • Pyhä-Häkki National Park
  • Leivonmäki National Park
  • Himos Ski Resort
  • Ähtäri Zoo
  • BikePark Himos

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Finland

Central Finland boasts a vast network of hiking and biking trails, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Päijänne Risteilyt
  • Isojärvi National Park
  • The Tourist Route of Old Vaasa
  • The Wilderness Route in Äänekoski

Best Things to Do in Central Finland: Activities and Tours

  • Take a cruise on Lake Päijänne
  • Visit the Alvar Aalto Museum in Jyväskylä
  • Enjoy a bike ride in Leivonmäki National Park
  • Ski or snowboard at the Himos Ski Resort
  • Try ice-swimming in one of the region’s many lakes
  • Go on a wildlife safari at the Ähtäri Zoo
  • Taste local food and drinks at the Jyväskylä Market Square

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Finland

Here is a sample itinerary to help you plan your week-long trip to Central Finland:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Jyväskylä, explore the city’s cultural attractions and enjoy Finnish cuisine at a local restaurant.
2 Take a cruise on Lake Päijänne or go hiking in Päijänne National Park.
3 Visit the Alvar Aalto Museum and the Craft Museum of Finland.
4 Enjoy a day at the Himos Ski Resort or go snowshoeing in Pyhä-Häkki National Park.
5 Go on a wildlife safari at the Ähtäri Zoo.
6 Explore the natural beauty of Jyväsjärvi Lake and bike in Leivonmäki National Park.
7 Try ice-swimming in Jyväskylä or Keuruu and shop for souvenirs in Jyväskylä Market Square.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Finland

Central Finland is renowned for its delicious local cuisine and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try foods and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kalakukko (baked fish in a rye crust)
  • Lihapullat (Finnish meatballs)
  • Salmiakki (salty liquorice)
  • Karjalanpaisti (Karelian stew)

Local Beverages

  • Kossu (Finnish brandy)
  • Olut (Finnish beer)
  • Glögi (Finnish mulled wine)
  • Vichy (Finnish mineral water)

Where to Stay in Central Finland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Finland has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Yöpuu (Jyväskylä)
  • Solo Sokos Hotel Paviljonki (Jyväskylä)
  • Revontuli Resort (Hankasalmi)
  • Jyväskylän Congress Hotel (Jyväskylä)
  • Himmerki (Jämsä)

What to Buy in Central Finland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Central Finland offers a variety of unique local products and souvenirs to bring back home. Here are some popular options:

  • Handmade glassware from Jyväskylä’s top glassblowers
  • Finnish design items from Alvar Aalto and Marimekko stores
  • Finnish berry wines and liqueurs
  • Traditional Finnish hats

Local Culture and Customs of Central Finland

Finland has rich cultural traditions, including Finnish saunas, which are still widely used. Finnish language is also an essential part of the culture and is considered to be one of the most challenging languages in the world to learn. When you are out to dinner, it is customary to tip the waiter or waitress about 10 percent of the total bill.

Best Time to Visit Central Finland

The best time to visit Central Finland is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and the countryside is lush and green. Alternatively, winter months (December-March) are perfect for outdoor winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-swimming.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Finland

Do:

  • Try local Finnish food and drinks
  • Respect Finnish culture and traditions
  • Learn some basic Finnish language
  • Use the Finnish saunas

Don’t:

  • Be too loud or boisterous in public
  • Discuss sensitive political or social issues
  • Expect to do business on Sundays or national holidays
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s house

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Finland

Central Finland is considered to be one of the safest regions in the world. It is advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and money in touristy areas.

Health in Central Finland

Central Finland has excellent medical facilities and hospitals. It is recommended that you have proper medical insurance if you are traveling to the country.

Getting to Central Finland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Finland

  • Jyväskylä Airport (4 km from the city center)
  • Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (144 km from Jyväskylä)
  • Helsinki Airport (280 km from Jyväskylä)

Bus Stations Near Central Finland

  • Jyväskylä Bus Station (in the city center)
  • Keuruu Bus Station
  • Äänekoski Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train (Finnish national railway, VR, operates all over the country and serves Jyväskylä)
  • Car (rentals available at airports and in the town centers)

How to Get Around in Central Finland

The easiest and most convenient way to get around Central Finland is by car, especially if you plan to travel outside of the main cities and towns. Alternatively, public transportation, such as buses and trains, is also available.

Where to Go Next from Central Finland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central Finland’s strategic location provides an excellent base for exploring other Nordic countries and European destinations. Here are some popular options:

  • The Finnish Archipelago
  • Stockholm, Sweden
  • St. Petersburg, Russia
  • Tallinn, Estonia

Conclusion

Central Finland is a hidden Nordic gem that offers adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With its vast network of hiking and biking trails, scenic views, and affordable accommodation options, Central Finland is an excellent destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Visit Central Finland and discover a new side of Finland today!

Typical natural harmony between lakes and forests in Central Finland Typical natural harmony between lakes and forests in Central Finland A moose in a rock painting in Saraakallio A moose in a rock painting in Saraakallio Cyclon rollercoaster at Nokkakivi Cyclon rollercoaster at Nokkakivi


    Karstula
    Keuruu
    Kyyjärvi
    Leivonmäki National Park
    Muurame
    Salamajärvi National Park
    Toivakka
    Viitasaari
    Äänekoski