Verified Facts
Quick Facts
Location & Borders
Finland is located in Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Finland, and the Arctic Circle. It shares borders with three countries: Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east. The country is situated between the 60th and 70th parallels north, making it one of the most northerly countries in the world. The geographic location of Finland has a significant impact on its climate, with the country experiencing long, cold winters and short, mild summers.
Finland's borders stretch for over 2,600 kilometers, with the majority being with Russia. The country's western border with Sweden is approximately 586 kilometers long, while the northern border with Norway is about 736 kilometers long. The southern coast of Finland borders the Gulf of Finland, which is connected to the Baltic Sea. The country's unique location, with its proximity to the Arctic Circle and the Baltic Sea, makes it an interesting and diverse destination for travelers.
Terrain & Landscape
Finland's terrain is characterized by thousands of lakes, forests, and islands. The country is often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Lakes," with over 188,000 lakes covering about 30% of its surface area. The largest lake in Finland is Lake Saimaa, which is also one of the largest lakes in Europe. The country's landscape is relatively flat, with the exception of the fjells in the north, which are a series of rugged hills and mountains. The highest point in Finland, Halti, is located in the Lapland region, which is also home to many of the country's national parks and wilderness areas.
Finland's forests cover about 70% of the country's land area, making it one of the most forested countries in the world. The forests are dominated by coniferous trees, such as spruce and pine, and are home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and elk. The country's coastline is also unique, with thousands of islands and skerries scattered along the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea. The Archipelago Sea, which is located off the southwestern coast of Finland, is the largest archipelago in the world, with over 50,000 islands and islets.
The unique combination of lakes, forests, and islands in Finland creates a diverse and complex landscape that is both beautiful and fragile. The country's natural environment is protected by a network of national parks, nature reserves, and wilderness areas, which provide habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.
Climate By Season
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | December to February | -2°C to -10°C | 30-50 mm | Cold, snowy, and icy |
| Spring | March to May | 0°C to 10°C | 30-60 mm | Mild, sunny, and wet |
| Summer | June to August | 15°C to 25°C | 60-100 mm | Warm, sunny, and humid |
| Autumn | September to November | 0°C to 10°C | 40-80 mm | Cool, rainy, and windy |
Best Time To Visit
Best months: June to August. Why: The summer months offer warm weather, long days, and a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Avoid: December to February, as the winter months can be very cold and dark, with limited daylight hours and some tourist attractions closed.
Natural Highlights
- Lapland is a unique and fragile natural environment, with thousands of lakes, forests, and mountains, and is home to the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights.
- Oulangan National Park is one of Finland's most popular national parks, with its unique river delta and old-growth forests.
- Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland and is home to a wide range of wildlife, including Saimaa ringed seals, which are one of the most endangered species in the world.
- The Archipelago Sea is the largest archipelago in the world, with over 50,000 islands and islets, and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
- Nuuksio National Park is a beautiful park located just outside of Helsinki, with its unique rock formations and old-growth forests.
- Koli National Park is a popular park located in eastern Finland, with its unique fjells and old-growth forests, and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing.