Finland set for record-breaking winter tourism season in 2025

FINLAND is preparing for what is promising to be a winter tourism season for the history books in 2025. The country is expecting a whopping 1.3 million tourists during the upcoming months, and according to public organisation Business Finland, the total spending by these tourists could reach up to an eye-watering €1.3 billion, blazing a trail and setting records for the winter tourism of Finland.

Lapland and Helsinki: Winter wanderlust

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, remains the primary attraction for foreigners visiting the country in the wintertime. With its jaw-dropping landscapes, clear views of the amazing Northern Lights phenomenon, and winter activities including sledding and visits to the home of Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, the region attracts nearly two thirds of all foreign tourists. 

Of course, the capital is also the apple of travellers’ eyes: Helsinki is also popular with tourists in the wintertime, receiving about 25 per cent of all foreign visitors. The remaining 10 per cent or so of visitors in the wintertime tend to spread out across other regions of Finland, amid spiking growth of the country’s tourism sphere.

Finland beating out Nordic neighbours

Pre-emptively, the winter tourism season in Finland is off to a strong start and is already showing a 10 per cent increase compared to last year. Between December 2025 and February 2026, Business Finland estimates, approximately 500,000 foreign visitors will arrive in Finland, showcasing the country’s strong winter season appeal in international markets, especially from Europe, North America, and Asia. Compared to its Nordic neighbours, Finland is performing particularly well, with surges in visitors from Sweden, Germany, and the US. Finland also receives the largest number of tourists from France, the UK and Switzerland, in comparison to other Nordic countries.

Statistics Finland affirmed that the country’s tourism numbers are returning to pre-pandemic levels.

Finland’s multi-pronged tourism plan, setting it up for success

Finland has had a particular focus on attracting more visitors from Asia, in particular China, Japan, and India. The efforts, so far, have yielded very positive results, and much of the pre-emptive success of the winter tourism season for this year can be attributed to Finland’s strategy.

The country has also focused more on sustainable tourism, with an unwavering commitment to preserving its stunning natural environment. Focusing more on nature-based activities and placing an emphasis on eco-friendly tourist accommodation, Finland is already minimising its ecological footprint while welcoming visitors with a myriad of healthy, fun, and environmentally conscious activities.

In order to properly accommodate all the expected visitors, Finland is also emphasising the improvement of its infrastructure. Finland’s airports, for example, have seen significant works and expansions, in order to handle increased flight capacity. Improved transport and accommodations are also making sure that visitors are as comfortable as possible and are able to explore as much of Finland as they desire.

Finland recognised as top tourist destination for 2026

Not only this, Finland has already been recognised on an international level. Prestigious travel guide Lonely Planet’s Best Destinations to Visit in 2026 features Finland heavily, praising it for its unique touristic experiences and variety of activities, from paddling through tranquil lakes to thrilling winter activities including sledding. Emphasising the country’s idyllic nature and its serene landscapes, Finland was – and continues to be – a head-turning tourist destination.

“Whether you are paddling through Finnish Lakeland in the golden light of a midsummer evening, feeling the heartbeat of Sámi reindeer-herding culture in Inari or embracing the bitter cold of Lapland on a dogsled ride as the northern lights come out to play, you will realize that Finnish happiness is tuning into nature, in touch with your inner child,” said the guidebook.

Lonely Planet described Finland as “the best for finding happiness in wild places.” Specifically, the guidebook mentioned the Finnish towns of Turku, Tampere, Oulu, and of course, the capital of Helsinki.

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