Parkano Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Parkano in Finnish Lakeland, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink, where to stay, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Parkano

Parkano is a small town located in the south-western part of Finland, in the region of Pirkanmaa, within the area known as Finnish Lakeland. Parkano may be small, but it has a lot to offer for travelers who want to experience the Finnish countryside and explore the local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Parkano

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Parkanon Kirkko – Parkano Church was completed in 1782 and still stands today as a beautiful example of Finnish architecture from that time. The church is known for its simple yet elegant design and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Finnish history and culture.

Parkano Museum – Parkano Museum is housed in an old school building and provides an insight into the daily life of Finland, including agriculture, handicrafts, trade, and industry. The museum has a fascinating collection of traditional Finnish clothing, textiles, and handicrafts on display.

Natural Attractions of Parkano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Haralanharju Scenic Hill – This hill is a great hiking spot and offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. There are several trails that lead up to the hill, and the view from the top is simply breathtaking.

Parkano Lake Nature Trail – This 7 km trail is a great way to experience the beautiful nature surrounding Parkano Lake. The trail is easy and suitable for all ages, and it takes you through a forested area with several observation towers offering great views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Parkano

Haralanharju Nature Trail

This 4 km nature trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The trail is well-marked and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Parkano-Pyhän Olavin Polku Trail

This 15 km trail is great for more experienced hikers and takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, marshes, and lakes. Along the way, you will pass several cultural and historical sites, including the Parkano Church.

Best Things to Do in Parkano: Activities and Tours

Halinen Vineyard

This family-owned vineyard offers wine tastings and tours of the vineyard. The picturesque location of the vineyard next to Parkano Lake makes for a great day trip.

Aavasaksa Hill Hiking Tour

This tour takes you to the top of Aavasaksa Hill, located in the nearby town of Ylitornio. It is a great day trip that involves hiking, breathtaking views, and a chance to experience Finnish Lapland.

Week-Long Itinerary for Parkano

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Parkano Church, Parkano Museum, and Haralanharju Scenic Hill
Day 2 Take a stroll along Parkano Lake Nature Trail and visit Halinen Vineyard
Day 3 Go on the Parkano-Pyhän Olavin Polku Trail
Day 4 Explore nearby towns, such as Ylitornio or Tampere
Day 5 Spend the day fishing on Parkano Lake or nearby lakes
Day 6 Visit the nearby national parks, such as Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas or Seitseminen
Day 7 Relax in one of the many saunas in Parkano or nearby areas

Food and Drink Scene of Parkano

Must-Try Dishes

Kalakukko – This traditional Finnish dish is made with rye dough and filled with fish, bacon, and pork. It is a great option for lunch or a light dinner.

Perunamuusi – Mashed potatoes are a staple in Finnish cuisine and often served as a side dish. They are creamy and delicious.

Local Beverages

Lonkero – This grapefruit-flavored long drink is a favorite among Finns during the summer months.

Sahti – This traditional Finnish beer is made from malted barley and rye and is often seasoned with juniper berries.

Where to Stay in Parkano: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Parkano Hotel – This hotel is located in the center of Parkano and offers comfortable rooms and great value for money.

Parkano Guesthouse – This guesthouse is a great option for travelers on a budget and offers a homely atmosphere and free Wi-Fi.

What to Buy in Parkano: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Moomin Products – The Moomins are a beloved Finnish cartoon family and are often featured in souvenirs. You can find many Moomin-themed products in Parkano.

Handicrafts and Textiles – Parkano is known for its traditional handicrafts and textiles. You can find beautiful textiles and handicrafts made by local artisans in many shops and markets in town.

Local Culture and Customs of Parkano

Finnish culture places a high value on nature, and you will often find that many activities and traditions are tied to it. Finnish saunas are also an essential part of Finnish culture, and many people in Parkano and other parts of Finland take a sauna at least once a week.

Best Time to Visit Parkano

The best time to visit Parkano is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and the days are long. The fall months (September to November) offer stunning foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it a great time to go hiking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Parkano

Do:

  • Respect Finnish culture and customs, such as taking off your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Explore the beautiful nature and go hiking or biking as much as possible.
  • Try traditional Finnish dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Interrupt someone while they are speaking, as Finns value quietness and do not like to be disturbed.
  • Wear shoes inside a Finnish home.
  • Forget to bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly in the evenings during the summer months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Parkano

Parkano is a safe place to visit, and crime rates are low. However, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions.

Health in Parkano

Finland has excellent healthcare facilities and services, and there are several hospitals and health centers in the area.

Getting to Parkano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Parkano

The nearest airport to Parkano is Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP), which is approximately 75 kilometers away. Helsinki Airport (HEL) is also close by and offers more international connections.

Bus Stations Near Parkano

Parkano Bus Station is located in the center of town and offers connections to other nearby areas.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great way to explore Parkano and the surrounding areas, and there are several car rental companies located in the area.

How to Get Around in Parkano

The best way to get around Parkano is by car or bike. There are several car rental companies in the area, and bikes can be rented from hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Go Next from Parkano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tampere

Tampere is a university town located about an hour’s drive from Parkano. It offers several cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and galleries.

Virrat

Located about 45 kilometers from Parkano, Virrat offers a serene natural landscape and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.

Conclusion

Parkano is a hidden gem in Finnish Lakeland, and a great place to experience Finnish culture and nature. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an outdoor adventure, Parkano has something to offer for everyone.

Parkano church Parkano church