Car Hire Finland - Mini guide to Finland
A country that seems forgotten about, Finland is becoming increasingly popular as a summer destination. It is uncrowded and full of history, both Scandinavia and Russian. Lapland in the north has its own unique beauty, while the south is covered in lakes and makes for pretty touring.
Situated on a peninsula, Helsinki is Finland’s cultural, financial and economic center, yet is refreshingly made up of green parks and waterways, with plenty of open-air cafés and a busy market square.
Depite lacking any remarkable ancient architecture the city has many fine old buildings. The atmosphere is unhurried and there are lively pockets to hang out in by night. Notable museums and galleries include; the Ateneum, the National Museum and Raitioliikennemuseo. Also worth seeking out is the bizarre Rock Church, hacked out of solid stone. A short ferry ride away is Suomenlinna Island, with its fortress ruins and Ehrensvärd Museum.
Turku is the country's oldest city. Despite being gutted over the centuries by several fires and transfer of the capital to Helsinki in 1812, it’s a pleasant and busy city. The only surviving medieval quarter is Luostarinmäki with its old wooden houses full of artisans. The oldest major building however is the 13th century Turku Castle, including a museum and palatial period rooms. Turku Cathedral is another attraction in the city.
Rauma is a remarkably well preserved wooden town, still operating with many artisans, lace makers and goldsmiths working in small studios. There are several interesting house museums and a 15th century Franciscan church. The market square takes you back 300 years, with exception of the pavement cafes. Not surprisingly it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kristinestad is another museum town, dating from the 17th century, with its narrow streets, maritime museum and curious Ulrika Eleonora's Church.
