Finland with kids offers families Nordic adventure filled with magical experiences. From meeting Santa Claus to witnessing the Northern Lights, Finland welcomes young explorers with open arms.
The country’s pristine nature becomes a year-round playground – summer brings endless days perfect for berry picking and lake adventures
Insider Tips: Exploring Finland with Your Family
The ideal time to visit spans summer (June-August) when the midnight sun creates endless days for exploration, or winter (December-March) for magical Northern Lights and snow adventures that transform the country into a winter wonderland.
The Best Time for a Family Trip to Finland
Summer (June to August) and winter (December to March) are prime seasons for visiting Finland with kids, each offering unique experiences. Summer brings endless daylight perfect for outdoor adventures for kids in Finland.
With temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), ideal for hiking, berry picking, and lake activities. Winter transforms the landscape into a magical snow-covered playground for Christmas festivities and winter sports.
Creating Your Perfect Finnish Vacation Timeline
A trip of 7-10 days provides the perfect duration to experience various kids activities in Finland without rushing. This timeframe allows families to explore Helsinki’s urban attractions, experience Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, and enjoy nature activities in the Finnish Lakeland or Lapland.
Consider adding extra days during winter months when shorter daylight hours may limit outdoor activities.
Everything About Tourist Visas for Finland
As part of the Schengen Area, Finland welcomes families with a straightforward visa process, though requirements vary by nationality:
Key Requirements for Adults:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond planned stay)
- Completed Schengen visa application with current details
- Comprehensive travel insurance covering minimum €30,000
- Confirmed accommodation bookings for entire stay
- Return flight tickets with specific dates
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds (minimum €50 per day)
- Employment documentation or proof of business ownership
- Recent colour photographs meeting Schengen specifications
Special Requirements for Children:
- Child’s passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Birth certificate with apostille or embassy verification
- Parent’s authorisation notarised by both parents if travelling with one parent
- School attendance proof showing enrolled status
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies
- Family status documentation
- Recent photographs meeting specific size requirements
Fees:
- Adult Schengen Visa: €80
- Children (6-12 years): €40
- Under 6 years: Free
- Service fees may apply depending on application centre
Suggested read: Summer in Finland: Midnight Sun, Festivals & Outdoor Fun
Getting Around Finland as a Family
Finland’s comprehensive transport system offers excellent family-friendly options for exploring the country:
- Efficient train network connecting major cities with family carriages and play areas
- Reliable bus services for regional travel with child discounts
- Modern tram and metro systems in Helsinki with stroller accessibility
- Car rentals recommended for Lapland exploration with child seats available
- Ferry services to coastal attractions offering family cabins
- Airport transfers with pre-booked child seats
- City bikes in Helsinki (suitable for families with older children)
- Winter transportation options including snow trains and ski buses
Travel Tips:
- Purchase family travel cards for city transport savings
- Book long-distance trains in advance for better prices
- Consider overnight trains for longer journeys
- Use Helsinki-Vantaa Airport’s family facilities and services
- Download local transport apps for real-time updates
Dream Stays: Kid-Friendly Hotels Across Finland
Experience these top family-friendly stays offering excellent indoor play areas in Finland:
1. Hotel Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Glass igloos for Northern Lights viewing
- Winter activity centre
- Family saunas
- Husky safari experiences
- Children’s snow gear rental
2. Holiday Club Resorts
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Indoor water parks
- Kids’ clubs
- Apartment-style rooms
- Family entertainment centres
- Supervised activities
3. Santa Claus Holiday Village
Kid-friendly amenities:
- Santa’s elves as staff
- Arctic Circle location
- Snow activities
- Family cottages
- Christmas programmes daily
Suggested read: How to Book Finland Visa Appointment
The best attractions for kids in Finland combine natural wonders with cultural experiences, offering year-round entertainment for families:
Santa Claus Village
Located in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland’s capital, this magical destination offers year-round Christmas enchantment and unforgettable cultural experiences for kids in Finland. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, the village features Santa’s Main Post Office, where children can send letters with special Arctic postmarks.
Why kids love this: Meeting the ‘real’ Santa in his home, receiving an Arctic Circle crossing certificate, and experiencing the magic of Christmas any time of year.
Heureka Science Centre
Among the premier museums for children in Finland, Heureka in Vantaa represents Finnish innovation at its finest. This cutting-edge science centre features over 200 interactive exhibits across 8,000 square metres of discovery space.
Why kids love this: Interactive experiments, planetarium shows, and the thrill of making scientific discoveries through hands-on activities.
Linnanmäki Amusement Park
As Helsinki’s beloved amusement parks in Finland, Linnanmäki has delighted families since 1950. The park features 43 rides ranging from heritage attractions to modern thrill rides, plus a spectacular panoramic tower offering 360-degree city views.
Why kids love this: Exciting mix of classic and modern rides, magical evening light shows, and endless carnival treats.
SantaPark Arctic World
Hidden inside an underground cavern in Rovaniemi, SantaPark offers unique indoor play areas in Finland. This subterranean Christmas theme park features an elf school, ice gallery, and gingerbread bakery.
Why kids love this: Graduating from Elf School, exploring magical ice caverns, and baking with Mrs. Gingerbread.
Helsinki Zoo (Korkeasaari)
Among the oldest zoos and aquariums in Finland, Korkeasaari occupies its own island in Helsinki’s archipelago. Home to 150 animal species and nearly 1,000 plant species, it specializes in Arctic and endangered animal conservation.
Why kids love this: Exciting boat ride to the zoo island and close encounters with Arctic animals.
Moominworld
Located in Naantali, this theme park offers enchanting holiday activities for kids in Finland based on Tove Jansson’s beloved characters. The park recreates the Moominvalley through interactive settings and live performances.
Why kids love this: Meeting favorite Moomin characters in real life and exploring the magical world of Moominvalley.
Ähtäri Zoo
Finland’s leading wildlife park specializes in northern species and endangered animals. Set within pristine forest, it offers outdoor adventures for kids in Finland combining wildlife observation with nature activities.
Why kids love this: Watching snow pandas play and joining exciting night safari adventures.
SuperPark
This modern indoor activity park chain provides year-round sports activities for kids in Finland. Locations across the country offer adventure areas, game arenas, and freestyle halls.
Why kids love this: Freedom to try exciting sports activities and master new skills in a safe environment.
Suggested read: Reasons for Finland Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals
Food Adventures: Finnish Flavors Kids Will Love
Dining out with kids in Finland offers a delightful blend of Nordic flavors and family-friendly atmospheres. Here are the top kid restaurants in Finland where families can enjoy memorable meals together:
Harald Viking Restaurant
Located in central Helsinki, this Viking-themed restaurant transforms dining into an adventure. The restaurant serves traditional Nordic cuisine with a theatrical twist. Kids can dress up in Viking costumes while enjoying specially crafted children’s meals served on wooden shields.
The atmospheric dining halls feature long wooden tables, flickering torches, and staff dressed in period attire, creating an immersive dining experience.
Fazer Café
A beloved Finnish institution since 1891, Fazer Café stands as a testament to Finland’s love affair with chocolate and pastries. The café offers child-sized portions of classic Finnish treats, including their world-famous chocolates and freshly baked pastries.
Their signature hot chocolate and interactive chocolate-making workshops make this a favorite spot for families seeking a sweet escape.
Zetor
This unique restaurant celebrates Finnish rural heritage in the heart of Helsinki. Set in a rustic atmosphere complete with vintage tractors and farming implements, Zetor serves traditional Finnish comfort food perfect for families.
Children are entertained by the authentic farm equipment while parents enjoy classic Finnish dishes served in generous portions.
Ravintola Lokki
Situated by the Helsinki waterfront, Ravintola Lokki combines stunning sea views with family-friendly dining. The restaurant specializes in Finnish seafood dishes adapted for young palates, while their weekend family brunches have become a local tradition.
The maritime-themed interior creates a relaxed atmosphere where children can watch boats pass by through panoramic windows.
Klaus K Kitchen & Bar
In the heart of Helsinki’s design district, Klaus K Kitchen & Bar offers modern Nordic cuisine in a family-friendly setting. The restaurant hosts weekend family cooking classes where children can learn about Finnish ingredients and cooking techniques.
Their creative children’s menu features playful presentations of traditional Finnish dishes, making healthy eating fun for young diners.
Robert’s Coffee
This popular Finnish coffee chain has mastered the art of welcoming families. Beyond their excellent beverages, they serve fresh-baked Finnish pastries and light meals perfect for young diners.
Their cozy seating areas and relaxed atmosphere make them an ideal spot for family breaks during city exploration.
Löyly
This modern seaside restaurant combines traditional Finnish sauna culture with family dining. Offering breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea, Löyly serves classic Finnish dishes adapted for family enjoyment.
Their terrace provides a perfect setting for introducing children to traditional Finnish flavors while watching ships sail past.
SuperPark Restaurants
Integrated within Finland’s popular activity parks, these restaurants understand active families’ needs. They serve energizing meals and healthy snacks that keep up with children’s adventures.
The open dining areas allow parents to relax while keeping an eye on kids playing in adjacent activity zones.
Your Family’s Finland Packing Guide
When planning travel tips for kids visiting Finland, packing appropriately for the extreme seasonal variations is crucial.
Winter Essentials (November-March)
Pack quality winter gear as temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or lower:
- Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic) for both day and night
- Insulated, waterproof snow suits or separate ski jackets and pants
- Waterproof, thermal boots rated for extreme cold
- Multiple pairs of warm wool socks
- Insulated winter hats covering ears
- Waterproof gloves or mittens (bring spares)
- Hand and foot warmers for outdoor activities
- Thermal neck warmers or balaclavas
- Polarized sunglasses for snow glare
- Moisturizer and lip balm for dry winter air
Summer Items (June-August)
Despite being mild, Finnish summers require specific items:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for temperatures around 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- High-factor sun protection (the sun barely sets in summer)
- Effective insect repellent for forest and lake areas
- Quick-dry swimming gear for lake activities
- Light rain jacket for unexpected showers
- Comfortable walking shoes for nature trails
- Sun hats and sunglasses
- Light sweaters for cool evenings
- Mosquito nets for camping or cottage stays
- Sleeping masks (helpful during white nights)
Spring/Autumn Essentials (April-May/September-October)
These transitional seasons need versatile clothing:
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm fleece or wool layers
- Sturdy walking boots
- Light gloves and a hat
- Umbrella or rain cover
- Weatherproof daypack
- Quick-dry clothing
- Warm socks
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Waterproof shoes
Why Choose OneVasco?
OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey.
- Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.
- Expert and Personalized Support
- Efficient and Hassle-Free Process
- Real-Time Tracking and Updates
- Transparent Communication
- Trusted by Millions
Frequently Asked Questions
How to plan Finland with kids?
Research seasonal activities and create an itinerary balancing outdoor adventures with indoor attractions. Consider the dramatic seasonal changes when planning your trip timing.
Is it worth visiting Finland with kids?
Finland offers exceptional sports activities for kids in Finland and safe environments for family exploration. The country’s family-friendly culture and unique experiences make it an outstanding destination.
What is the best seasonal fun for kids in Finland?
Summer offers midnight sun activities and berry picking, while winter brings seasonal fun for kids in Finland like skiing, sledging, and Northern Lights viewing. Each season provides unique outdoor experiences.
Which month is best for kids in Finland?
December – February offers magical winter experiences and Christmas activities, while June – August provides warm weather and special events for kids in Finland.
How many days in Finland are enough?
7-10 days allows families to explore major cities and experience various parks and playgrounds in Finland at a comfortable pace.
