Tampere Uncovered: Top Things to Do in Finland’s Coolest City

Visiting a Scandinavian country had been on my bucket list for a long time. During the pandemic, I connected online with some lovely people from Finland – and decided it was finally time to explore the happiest country in the world myself (yes, again ranked No. 1 by the UN World Happiness Report – for the 7th time!).

Technically, I had been to Finland before… for a couple of hours. Just enough for a quick stroll through Helsinki, but definitely not enough to experience what a Finnish city really has to offer. My trip to Tampere was about to change that. So – what to do and see in Tampere? Let’s find out.

✈️ Arrival in Helsinki & Getting to Tampere

Landing at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport instantly felt… calm. Especially if you’re used to large, chaotic airports. In Finland, things are simply different: fewer people, less stress, more serenity. Maybe that’s part of the secret to Finnish happiness?

Tampere is around 176 kilometers from Helsinki. Although Tampere has its own airport (Tampere-Pirkkala), I opted for a flight from Frankfurt to Helsinki – better flight times and a chance to enjoy the train journey north.

📍 Tampere – What you need to know

Tampere is Finland’s third-largest city, home to about 250,000 people. Nestled between two lakes – Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi – the city is connected by the Tammerkoski rapids, giving it a distinct natural charm.

During my three days in Tampere, I fell in love with the city’s mix of old and new:

• Industrial heritage meets modern architecture (hello, Nokia Arena!)
• Student vibes meet rich cultural traditions
• And then there’s the food… 🍗 but we’ll get to that!

Fun fact: Chicken wings are a thing in Tampere. I wasn’t prepared for how popular they are here – but let’s just say, I didn’t leave disappointed.

👟 My Top Tip #1: Explore the City on Foot

Yes, Tampere has excellent public transport – buses and a sleek, modern tram system (built in 2021). But honestly? Walking is the best way to explore this city. It’s compact, walkable, and the street layout is simple – you won’t get lost easily.

Start your walk at Keskustori (Central Square). Here you’ll find the theatre, town hall, and an adorable wooden church from 1824. From there, it’s just a short stroll to the Finlayson area – a beautifully preserved former factory district full of galleries, museums, shops, and cozy restaurants.

Cultural Highlights in Tampere

If you love quirky museums and beautiful old buildings, you’re in for a treat.

Finlayson Area: Industrial Charm Meets Culture

One of Tampere’s most fascinating spots is the Finlayson Area – a former industrial site turned cultural hotspot. Once home to one of the most important textile factories in the Nordics, the red-brick buildings have been lovingly repurposed and now house everything from museums and restaurants to cafés, galleries and even a cinema.

The whole area has a creative, urban flair while still paying tribute to its industrial roots. It’s a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon – whether you’re grabbing a coffee, visiting an art exhibition, or catching a movie. I loved how history and modern city life blend together here, creating a space that’s both vibrant and atmospheric.

Moomin Museum

Tove Jansson’s iconic characters come to life in this immersive museum – a must-see for Moomin fans, families, and art lovers alike.

Tallipiha Stable Yards

Once actual stables, these charming wooden buildings now host small boutiques, craft shops, and a cozy café. I visited in March and was greeted by an amusing mix of Christmas trees decorated with Easter eggs. Magic!

☕ Tallipihan Kahvila: I fell in love with this cozy little café! Try their delicious pastries and relax in the peaceful atmosphere – especially with a cup of hot tea or coffee on a chilly day.

🍽️ My Top Tip #2: Eat Your Way Through Tampere

Vanha Kauppahalli (Old Market Hall)

This place is foodie heaven! Local pastries, fish, cheese, meats, fresh produce, artisan products – you name it. Whether you’re after a quick snack, a traditional Finnish breakfast, or a relaxed lunch: this is your spot.

🌳 My Top Tip #3: Explore Nature Around Tampere

This one’s a no-brainer: if you’re in Finland, you absolutely have to explore the great outdoors. Renting a car and heading out of the city is the perfect way to see what this country is really about – peaceful lakes, endless forests, and those famously fresh Finnish skies.

The Tampere region is surrounded by countless lakes and hiking trails, making it ideal for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, wild swimming, cycling or cross-country skiing in winter – there’s something to do year-round. In summer, many locals spend their weekends at a mökki (a lakeside cottage), often with a private sauna, jetty, and a boat. It’s their way of disconnecting from the hustle of daily life and reconnecting with nature – in total peace and quiet.

We didn’t see any moose this time, but those “Beware of Moose” signs along the road made me smile every single time. I’ll keep my eyes open on the next trip!

Finland’s natural beauty is endless – and in Tampere, it’s right at your doorstep.

💬 Final Thoughts: Tampere Surprised Me!

If you’re looking for a destination that offers culture, cuisine, nature, and Nordic calm, Tampere is a fantastic choice. It’s vibrant yet peaceful, compact yet full of character.

Three full days is the perfect amount of time to soak it all in. I’ll definitely be back – for the atmosphere, the food, and the people. Tampere: you’ve won me over.