A Guide of All the Best Things to Do in Tampere, Finland

Often described as the Finn’s favorite city, Tampere, Finland, has so much to offer both the local and tourist populations. With a population of 340,000, Tampere is the most populous inland city in the Nordic countries (fun fact!) and attracts visitors from around the country as well as the world. Its popularity stems from its status as the ‘Sauna Capital of the World’ and the many vibrant festivals that bring the city to life.

Easily accessible by train from Helsinki, the city is situated between two large lakes in the historic province of Satakunta, making the scenery as stunning as the city is charming.

The city has long been associated with industrial and working-class histories thanks to its significant role in Finland’s manufacturing industry, with a particular focus on textile production.

Tampere is a welcoming place where it’s easy to make friends with locals, enjoy cultural events such as the Tampere Film Festival, and explore all that this jewel-box of a city has to offer.

Here are all the best things to do in Tampere, Finland:

Restaurants	Saunas	Bars	Hotels
Shopping	Festivals	Culture	Nature

Restaurants	Saunas
Bars	Hotels
Shopping	Festivals
Culture	Nature

Where is Tampere located?

Tampere is located in southern Finland, about 170 kilometers north of Helsinki, the capital. It’s Finland’s third-largest city and a vibrant hub known for its industrial history, stunning lakes, and lively cultural scene.

Where to eat: Best restaurants in Tampere

Wondering what modern Finnish food is like? Modern Finnish cuisine is a blend of traditional dishes and contemporary influences, often featuring local ingredients sourced from the forests and lakes for which Finland is known. Those traditional Finnish dishes include cured reindeer and “Leipäjuusto,” (Finnish squeaky cheer or bread cheese).

Overall, Finnish food is excellent: high-quality and fresh ingredients combined in inspiring and exciting ways, all with the aim of being both tasty and nutritious. Tampere’s diverse selection of restaurants reflect this excellence. Take a look at the best restaurants in the city:

Restaurant Peroscope

This is a must-visit in Tampere. Restaurant Peroscope is located in a tower off the Kauppakeskus Ratina shopping center, including a large restaurant complex that offers a wide range of delicious food, all handcrafted with skill and heart.

Periscope is known for its casual and cozy atmosphere. One of its highlights is the impressive views over the city of Tampere and Lake Pyhäjärvi.

Restaurant Muusa

Restaurant Muusa is a unique eatery located in the Olympia-kortteli complex in Tampere. It’s known for its diverse and delicious menu, which includes vegetarian and vegan options as well as hearty meat dishes. One of the standout features of Muusa is its variety—the menu is a mix of “comfort nibbles” and colorful main dishes.

The restaurant is part of the Olympia-kortteli cultural and entertainment complex, that includes a music venue, exhibition space, a cocktail bar, and a courtyard terrace.

It’s definitely a spot worth checking out if you’re looking for a memorable meal or evening out in Tampere!

Restaurant Apaja

Apaja is an acclaimed restaurant located in the Sisäpiha courtyard in Tampere. Opened by Juuso Ahvenainen and Tuomas Norri in 2022, the restaurant is housed in a tiny 100-year-old railway workers’ house that has served various functions over the years, adding to its charm. In addition to the two main eating rooms, there is a cozy bar where you can continue the evening with a glass of wine or a drink.

Though the interior is homely and relaxed, the restaurant serves haute cuisine. Despite the high level of cuisine, the food is unpretentious in the truest sense of the word.

Apaja’s menu is really something special: it changes every two weeks and is built around local ingredients like pike, wild game, vegetables, and wild herbs. This ensures that the food is fresh, seasonal, and unique. Diners have raved about the flavors being beyond their imagination and the atmosphere being one-of-a-kind.

The chefs at Apaja also carefully select wines and drinks to complement the tastes of the dishes, enhancing the dining experience even further. No wonder it has quickly become a favourite among fine dining enthusiasts.

Tampereen Kauppahalli (Tampere Market Hall)

Dating back to 1901, Tampere Market Hall is one of the oldest market halls in Finland and offers a vibrant mix of fresh produce, local delicacies, and handicrafts. It’s a great place to sample Finnish specialties and soak in the lively atmosphere. You’ll likely see older couples leisurely browsing the stalls alongside young professionals grabbing lunch or picking up fresh ingredients for dinner.

Here, you can try cured reindeer, “mustamakkara” or blood sausage (known to be best when bought and eaten fresh at market stalls), and even the local firewater: “Salmiakki Koskenkorva,” which is a variety of Koskenkorva infused with salmiakki (salty licorice), providing a unique and distinctly Finnish flavor. For a quick and easy snack, the national favorite is “karjalanpiirakat” or Karelian pastries, with a thin rye crust filled with rice.

For the cheese-lovers amongst us: don’t miss the “Lapin Kulta,” a popular Finnish cheese produced in Lapland that is often smoked and has a distinctive flavor. “Leipäjuusto,” also known as Finnish squeaky cheese or bread cheese, is a traditional Finnish cheese made from cow, goat, or reindeer milk that is commonly served warm with cloudberry jam.

Where to relax: Best saunas in Tampere

Tampere is known as the sauna capital of Finland, which is really saying something. In fact, Tampere has the most public saunas in the whole of Finland. With over 30 public saunas to choose from, visitors can experience authentic Finnish sauna culture in various settings, from traditional wood-fired saunas to modern urban spas.

Beyond its wealth of public saunas, Tampere boasts numerous picturesque lakes where sauna-goers can cool down between sauna sessions. Expert tip: Starting your holiday with a sauna will prime your body and mind, helping you feel refreshed and ready to embrace every moment of your trip.

Rauhaniemi Folk Spa

Just a short drive from Tampere, Rauhaniemi Folk Spa Kaupinoja sauna offers two traditional Finnish saunas. The sauna is situated by a lake, allowing for cool-down swimming in the summer and exhilarating hole-in-the-ice swimming in the winter.

The saunas are open every day of the year. In winter, you can take a thrilling plunge into ice-cold water, and in summer, Rauhaniemi becomes one of Tampere’s most popular beaches, perfect for soaking up the sun.
 

Rajaportti Sauna

The most famous sauna in the center of Tampere is undoubtedly Rajaportti Sauna, located in the Pispala neighborhood.

It’s not just the oldest public sauna in Finland that’s still in operation — it’s actually older than the country itself! Built in 1906, this traditional sauna boasts a wood-burning stove, a relaxed atmosphere, and a fascinating history.

Built in 1906 in Pispala, Tampere, it has retained its original atmosphere over the years, offering a unique experience for visitors. The only update to the space came in the 1930s, when a wall was erected to separate the men’s and women’s washrooms.

In addition to men’s and women’s sauna rooms, there is also a coffee house and massage therapist available, making it a great spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. You can buy a drink to enjoy in the sauna, and don’t miss out on the sauna sausages, that were traditionally cooked over the sauna’s hot stones. For those eager to delve into genuine Finnish sauna culture, this sauna is a must on your checklist.

Serlachius Art Sauna

Located amidst the serene Finnish landscapes in Mänttä-Vilppula, Serlachius Art Sauna offers a unique blend of contemporary art and traditional Finnish sauna culture. Set within the renowned Serlachius Museum Gösta, guests can indulge in the soothing heat of a wood-burning stove sauna, surrounded by minimalist Nordic aesthetics and views of Lake Melasjärvi.

The sauna itself is a masterpiece, designed by the acclaimed architectural firms Mendoza Partida and BAX Studio to harmonize with its natural surroundings. Cool off with a refreshing dip in the lake or simply bask in the sun on the museum’s terrace. Expert tip: don’t miss the freshly caught fish prepared directly in a smoke oven on-site, or their beef steaks from the grill.

After a rejuvenating sauna session, visitors can explore the adjacent Serlachius Museum Gösta, known for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The museum grounds offer tranquil paths through the forest, perfect for contemplation and unwinding after your sauna experience.

Even More Saunas in Tampere

There are over 50 public saunas in the Tampere region, so there’s no need to stick to the traditional sauna experience.

From art saunas to floating sauna party boats, sauna cars, luxurious wellness spas, and a sauna with views of the football stadium, Tampere offers unique sauna sessions that you never even knew you needed!

And given that Tampere is the city of saunas and festivals, it’s only natural that there’s a sauna festival in early June where you can immerse yourself in the rich sauna culture with a variety of sauna-themed events.

Where to go out: Best bars and clubs in Tampere

The nightlight in Tampere is vibrant, with many fun places to go out and have a drink, dance, or just enjoy the city by night.

The Sauna Restaurant Kuuma

Because this is Tampere, the first bar we’ll suggest also has a sauna, of course.

At Kuuma you will find summer and winter terraces and a cafe-restaurant. Before some delicious casual drinks, you can visit in the two public saunas or take a dip in the lake Pyhäjärvi.

Moro Sky Bar

Moro Sky Bar is a stunning sky bar with a tremendous view over the city of Tampere, located on the 25th floor of the Solo Sokos Hotel Torni Tampere. It’s a classy yet laid-back cocktail bar that pays tribute to the olympic medalists of Tampere.

Moro Sky Bar is open for visitors all ages during the day; after 6:00 pm underage persons are welcome when accompanied by adults and after 9:00 pm the age limit is 18.

Yo-Talo

Yo-Talo Tampere is a legendary club in Tampere, Finland. It’s been around for over 50 years, offering live music, concerts, and theme club nights. The place has a rich history in the Tampere music scene and continues to host various concerts and theme club nights, such as Disco45 and Block of Flats.

Thrasherie Bar

Love metal music? This is the place for you! Have a drink and get ready for metal tunes of all kinds throughout the night. The atmosphere is friendly and fun, with an enthusiastic staff and a lively patronage.

Where to stay: Best hotels in Tampere

Looking for hotels in Tampere, or maybe an Airbnb in Tampere? We have you covered for your Tampere hotel booking with this great selection.

Lillan Hotel & Kök

This unique, four star boutique hotel is located in the Viinikka district, just next to the historical Viinikka’s church, a few kilometers from the city center.

Originally constructed in 1927, the building served as a nursing home for retired maids. Since then, it has undergone extensive renovation to transform into a charming hotel and restaurant, focusing on creating a warm ambiance, providing exceptional service, and offering delicious food. The hotel is very family-friendly thanks to its inviting atmosphere and central location. The hotel is accessible to Nokia Arena Tampere University Tampere Bus Terminal, and Tampere Hall.

The hotel’s restaurant, Lillan Kök, is popular with travellers and locals alike, offering a fusion of Scandinavian flavors and international bites.

Hämeenkatu Apartment

If you’re in the mood for a modern, self-contained apartment rather than a hotel room, “Hämeenkatu” Apartment is a great choice. Located in a renovated historical building, this apartment has charming Finnish interior elements.

Even though it’s in a residential building, the apartment is soundproof so you won’t be bothered by the sounds of the city. This is an idea place to stay in Tampere for couples and families.

Dream Hostel & Hotel

The world-renowned Dream Hostel is a unique, modern design hotel on a small, lovable scale. Want clean, minimalist Scandinavian design for an affordable price, and well-located in Tampere? This is the spot for you. It’s a no-fuss, functional space that still feels social and inviting. What else do you need?
 

Taivasalla Glamping at Niemi-Kapee

Looking for a touch of luxury with a glamping spirit? Taivasalla, which means “under the open sky,” is the perfect spot for cyclists and couples wanting to bask in the beauty of a summer night in the Finnish countryside. As autumn sets in, you can stay cozy with their heated blankets.

Taivasalla is one of five charming cottages on the Niemi-Kapee farm, just 55 minutes north of Tampere, each nestled on the shores of Lake Näsijärvi. Every cottage comes with its own private lakefront and a separate wood-heated sauna, offering a peaceful retreat. Run by the farm’s third generation, these cottages blend modern style with a deep respect for the surrounding nature.

Their traditional Finnish sauna is heated by burning wood for 6 to 8 hours and then letting the smoke out before you enter, the sauna can accommodate up to 20 people for a very Finnish sauna experience.

If relaxation alone isn’t enough, how about some adventure? The farm offers canoeing, biking, e-biking, guided hikes, and more to add a dash of excitement to your vacation.
 

 

Where to shop: Best fashion and design stores in Tampere

After all your great food, drink, exploring, and celebrating in Tampere, you may want to do a spot of shopping. Luckily there are many fantastic local shops. Our shopping guide will help you find the best places to shop.

Pispala Clothing

Have you heard of artwear? It’s a collaborative concept between fashion and visual artists, and it’s at the root of Finnish brand Pispala. The brand’s clothes are all unisex (tbh all clothes are unisex) and created within this fantastic partnership of design and art, resulting in unique, maximalist, and quirky pieces that everyone will be asking you about.

Shop, listen to music, and enjoy a cup of coffee in their art-filled flagship store.

Yesterday Second Hand

If you’re looking for flamboyant retro and vintage style from the 1950s to the 1980s, pay a visit to Yesterday Second Hand. Here you can expect to find stand-out pieces for everyone, ranging from flashy leather jackets to glamorous evening gowns.

Where to celebrate: Best festivals in Tampere

One thing Tampere has in spades? Festivals! How many festivals are in Tampere? Let’s just say you can barely throw a stone without hitting a festival, and they run the range from film festivals to music festivals to poetry festivals and more.

Tampere Film Festival

The Tampere Film Festival is a prestigious international event in the world of short film, running since 1969. It is the largest short film festival in the Nordic countries and takes place annually early March over five days, and attracts around 30,000 visitors every year.

Celebrating short films, with a diverse selection of around 500 shorts from all over the world, Tampere Film Festival is one of the Oscar®, BAFTA and EFA qualifying film festivals. The festival includes a national Finnish competition, industry events, and film-related discussions; it’s a really well-rounded experience for attendees.

The city truly lights up for this festival, with lots of public events from screenings of classic Finnish cinema in cathedrals to after parties in old university halls. It’s a great opportunity to meet both locals and international film-makers.

Annikki Poetry Festival (Annikin Runofestivaali)

Did you know that Finns are very into poetry? It’s true! So it’s no surprise that they have multiple poetry festivals; one of the most prestigious and international of these is the Annikki Poetry Festival, held every other year and running since 2003.
 

 

The festival began when residents of the Annikki wooden quarter in Tampere set up a courtyard poetry event. It has since developed into something much bigger and more inclusive, including Anikki OFF, a program of events all over Tampere.

Tampere Jazz Happening

The charmingly named Tampere Jazz Happening takes place every November and features modern jazz, improvised music, world music, and jazz with rock influences. It’s been running since 1982 and also includes workshops and art exhibitions.

“The Happening,” as it’s known, provides a platform for Finnish and global modern jazz artists.

Other Festivals in Tampere

We also recommend checking out some of these niche festivals and music events in Tampere:

What to experience: Best cultural activities in Tampere

Tampere is a vibrant city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and unique museums. Whether you’re seeking adventure that push you out of your comfort zone, or prefer leisurely strolls to soak in the atmosphere, Tampere offers a myriad of exciting cultural experiences!

Kick Sleding, Ice Skating & Ice fishing

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Tampere, maybe it’s time to consider a kick sleding and ice fishing adventure.

Kick-sledding is used to get across the frozen lake to Siilinkari, a little island with a lighthouse on Lake Näsijärvi. It may not be the fastest way to get around, but it’s fun and totally different from anything you’ve tried. We recommend giving it a go whether you plan to go ice fishing or not.

Alternatively, you can ice skate, ski or ride a fat bike across the frozen lake. And don’t worry about the ice; it’s quite literally thick enough to drive a car over!

Ice fishing is a popular winter activity — the season is from December to April — with perch being the most common catch. Guided ice fishing tours are available on request, which usually include sleigh rides, instruction, and a visit to a lucky fishing spot.

Learn how to drill a hole in the ice using an ice auger drill (it’s a workout!), before enjoying the fishing process. Don’t catch anything? No problem! There’s the Siilinkari Winter Café hut café on the frozen lake by the lighthouse, where you can pop in for hot chocolate and Finnish hot dogs.
 

Visit the Moomin Museum

Tampere is the only city in the world with a museum dedicated to the beloved Moomin characters created by Finnish author Tove Jansson. The Moomin Museum features original artwork and exhibits showcasing the whimsical world of the Moomins.

The Moomin Museum, located in Tampere Hall, is a unique and enchanting experience for Moomin fans and art lovers of all ages. The museum is home to over 2,000 original Moomin illustrations and artworks by Tove Jansson.

The Moomin Museum may not be the largest museum you’ve ever visited, but it’s still full of magical exhibits. The museum features a cozy reading room where you can browse Moomin books in various languages and a gift shop where you can find Moomin mugs, Moomin toys and Moomin prints for the home.

The museum also houses a 2.5-meter high miniature Moomin House, built by Tove Jansson herself in the 1970s. Overall, this museum is a charming and intimate space that celebrates the world of Moomins in a way that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Tallipiha Stable Yards

The Tallipiha Stable Yards is a complex of Russian Karelian-style cottages from the 1880s that have been restored and now house gift shops, artisans’ workshops, and a café. It’s a charming place with a lot of history and there are often seasonal events like Midsummer celebrations, market days, and artisans’ work demonstrations.

Tallipihan kahvila cafe is famous for its karelian pastries, meringues, and old-fashioned creamy smoked salmon soup served daily from 11am to 2pm.

Nearby, you’ll find the Sara Hilden Art Museum, which exhibitions contemporary art in a gorgeous modern building with floor to ceiling windows looking out over Lake Näsijärvi, as well as lovely sculpture park.

Sara Hildén was a Finnish feminist icon and contemporary art collector; her collection, now in the museum, includes the works of Joan Miró, Francis Bacon, Paul Klee, and Alberto Giacometti, among others.

Where to explore: Best parks and hikes in Tampere

There is so much to explore in Tampere. There are four national parks in the Tampere region, several nature reserve areas, and beautiful hiking trails. There are great nature programs provided by several companies of good quality including hiking, canoeing, fishing, SUP boarding, and forest yoga.

Tampere is the biggest city in the “Finnish Lakelands.” The Lakelands is Europe’s largest lake district and is where Finns go to enjoy nature, stay in charming cottages, and take part in all the activities that the outdoors have to offer.

The Best Parks in Tampere

Tampere boasts a fantastic array of parks and green spaces for visitors and locals to enjoy. Here are a few general highlights:

 

Koskipuisto Park

Koskipuisto Park runs along the shores of the Tammerkoski rapids. The park has evolved over time, with major changes taking place in the 1930s when a power plant dam was built. Today, the park features a festive promenade that is lit with arched lights, decorative plantings, and unique stones from the rapids. It’s a popular spot for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the beautiful scenery and atmosphere.

 

Sorsapuisto

Sorsapuisto translates to “Duck Park;” it is a popular and picturesque 4.2-hectare recreational area located in the Tulli district of Tampere. The park features a pond with ducks (hence the name) and a natural spring, making it a great spot to kick back and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. In winter the park is a stunning location for ice skating. For kids, there’s an excellent playground with a jungle gym, carousel, and climbing nest.

Sorsapuisto Park, Tampere

Särkänniemi Amusement Park and Näsi Park

Hike (or take a stroll) on a Nature Trail

There are many nature trails near Tampere, offering opportunities for hiking, running, and cross-country skiing. Some popular nature trails near Tampere include:

 

Tammerkoski nature trail

Tammerkoski nature trail is a strong choice for a family-friendly outdoor activity right in the center Tampere. The trail is only 2.6 km long, making it a manageable length for children, and it offers educational opportunities with information on local wildlife and flora available at signposts along the trail.

 

Pyynikki Nature Trail

Pyynikki Nature Reserve is a nature preserve that offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. There are scenic views from both the Pyynikki Vista Point and the Pyynikki Coffee Shop & Observation Tower.

 

Tampere Shore Route

This trail offers a moderate hike along the shores of Lake Näsijärvi. Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as the trail can be windy and exposed in some areas.

 

Suolijärvi Nature Trail

This trail is low-impact and offers scenic views of the Suolijärvi area. Bring a pair of binoculars and keep an eye out for birds, as the area is a popular spot for bird watching!

 

Kintulammi Nature Reserve

A stunning nature reserve 20 kilometers northwest of Tampere, famous for its serene forests, tranquil lakes and wetlands. There are 18 kilometers of hiking trails with duckboards for navigating wet areas. There are six fire pits and four ecologically designed lean-to shelters equipped with a woodshed and dry toilet facilities.

The Best Photography Spots and Views in Tampere

Tampere offers some fantastic photography spots for capturing its unique skyline, beautiful views, and must-see landmarks. Here are a few suggestions:

This is just a starter list; thanks to the wealth of natural beauty found throughout Tampere, there are many more photography spots to discover. Feel free to explore and find your own hidden gems!

FAQs about Tampere

What language is spoken in Tampere?

Finland has two official languages: Finnish and Swedish In Tampere, the majority of people speak Finnish as their native language. You can definitely survive in Finland with English. You’ll find that signs, menus, and public transportation info are often available in English, making it quite easy to get around.

What is the population of Tampere?

The population of Tampere is around 240,000 people, making it Finland’s third-largest city. It’s big enough to offer plenty to do but still has a cozy, friendly feel.

How do you pronounce Tampere?

Pronouncing Tampere is pretty straightforward: say “TAHM-peh-reh.” Just imagine you’re on a delightful trip to Finland, chatting with locals about the best spots to visit in their lovely city.

Is Tampere Finland worth visiting?

Tampere is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history, lovely lakes, vibrant cultural events, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Read more about Finnish pulla bread, how to elope in Finland, Finnish hiking trails, Swedish-speaking Finns, and cabin retreats in Finland.

 
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