Tampere, nestled between two lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, in southern Finland, is a city renowned for its industrial heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural surroundings. For those pondering things to do in Tampere, exploring the Finlayson area, a former industrial complex now housing museums, shops, and restaurants, and visiting the Tampere Cathedral, known for its unique frescoes, are essential experiences.
The city’s Vapriikki Museum Centre, located in an old factory, offers a variety of exhibitions ranging from natural history to technology and culture. The Särkänniemi Adventure Park, featuring an aquarium, planetarium, and the Näsinneula observation tower, provides entertainment for all ages.
Beyond its urban attractions, Tampere is surrounded by beautiful nature, with numerous parks, forests, and lakes offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and relaxation. For those exploring the best places to visit in Finland, Tampere’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a diverse and appealing destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Tampere, Finland
1. Särkänniemi Amusement Park
Särkänniemi is a diverse amusement park in Tampere, offering a range of attractions including roller coasters, a planetarium, an aquarium, and Näsinneula, the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries.
Location: Laiturikatu 1, Tampere, Finland. Easily accessible by car, bus, or tram from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Features thrilling rides, an aquarium, a planetarium, and the Näsinneula Tower, offering panoramic views of Tampere.
Best Time to Visit: May-September for the best weather and all attractions open.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with attractions for kids, families, and thrill-seekers.
Price: €42 for an unlimited ride pass, €10-€15 for individual attractions.
Travel Tip: Plan a full day here to enjoy all the attractions, and don’t miss the chance to dine in the revolving restaurant at the top of Näsinneula Tower for panoramic views of Tampere.
2. Tampere Cathedral
Tampere Cathedral is a notable example of National Romantic style architecture. The church is famous for its frescoes, painted by the symbolist painter Hugo Simberg, and its impressive organ.
Location: Tuomiokirkonkatu 3, Tampere, Finland. A short walk from Tampere Railway Station.
Scenic Spot: A National Romantic-style church known for its stunning frescoes, including “The Wounded Angel” by Hugo Simberg.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for peaceful exploration.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though younger children may find it less engaging.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Pay close attention to the frescoes, especially “The Wounded Angel” and “The Garden of Death,” which are among the most recognized works in Finnish art history.
3. Vapriikki Museum Centre
Located in an old factory building, the Vapriikki Museum Centre houses several museums under one roof, including the Natural History Museum, the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame, and exhibitions on Tampere’s history.
Location: Alaverstaanraitti 5, Tampere, Finland. Located in an old factory building near the Tammerkoski rapids.
Scenic Spot: A collection of museums under one roof, covering topics such as natural history, Finnish hockey, and local industry.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits for children and adults alike.
Price: €15 for adults, €7 for students and seniors, free for children under 7.
Travel Tip: Allocate enough time to explore the diverse exhibits; there’s something of interest for everyone, from history buffs to sports fans.
4. Pyynikki Observation Tower
The Pyynikki Observation Tower stands on the highest gravel ridge in the world. The tower offers magnificent views of Tampere and its surroundings, and there’s also a café known for its delicious doughnuts.
Location: Näkötornintie 20, Tampere, Finland. Located in Pyynikki Park, just outside the city center.
Scenic Spot: Offers breathtaking views of Tampere and its surrounding lakes from the top of the world’s highest gravel ridge.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn for colorful foliage or summer for clear panoramic views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though there are stairs to climb to the top.
Price: €2.50 for adults, €1 for children.
Travel Tip: After enjoying the view, take a walk in the adjacent Pyynikki Park, which offers excellent trails and scenery.
5. Finlayson Area
The Finlayson Area, a former industrial complex, is now a vibrant part of Tampere with shops, restaurants, cinemas, and museums. It’s a great place to experience the city’s industrial heritage mixed with modern Finnish culture.
Location: Kuninkaankatu 1, Tampere, Finland. Near the city center, walkable from the train station.
Scenic Spot: A former industrial complex turned into a cultural hub with museums, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best in summer for open-air events.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the history-focused museums may appeal more to adults.
Price: Free to enter the area; museum fees vary.
Travel Tip: Visit the Finnish Labour Museum Werstas within the area, which is free of charge and offers insight into Finland’s industrial and social history.
6. Moomin Museum
The Moomin Museum is dedicated to the beloved characters created by Tove Jansson. It’s the only museum of its kind in the world, showcasing original Moomin artwork and exhibiting the history of these famous Finnish characters.
Location: Tampere Hall, Yliopistonkatu 55, Tampere, Finland. Near the university area.
Scenic Spot: The world’s only Moomin-themed museum, featuring original illustrations and interactive exhibits.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, especially ideal for families with children.
Price: €14 for adults, €6 for children aged 3-17, free for children under 3.
Travel Tip: This museum is a must for Moomin fans of all ages, and make sure to check out the museum shop for unique Moomin merchandise.
7. Lake Näsijärvi and Viikinsaari Island
Lake Näsijärvi is a large lake north of Tampere, offering various recreational activities. A short boat trip can take you to Viikinsaari Island, a popular spot for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Location: Lake Näsijärvi, accessible via a short boat ride from Laukontori harbor in Tampere.
Scenic Spot: A beautiful lake with opportunities for hiking, swimming, and sauna experiences on Viikinsaari Island.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June-August) for outdoor activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with options for both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation.
Price: €12 for a round-trip ferry to Viikinsaari, sauna and activity prices vary.
Travel Tip: Plan a day trip to Viikinsaari in the summer for walking trails, a beach, and even a traditional Finnish sauna experience.
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Tampere, Finland: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Tampere: 9/10 – Tampere is very family-friendly, offering numerous activities for children. Highlights include the Särkänniemi Adventure Park, which features an amusement park, aquarium, planetarium, and Näsinneula Observation Tower. The Moomin Museum provides a unique cultural experience for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters. There are also several parks and playgrounds, such as Koskipuisto and the Pyynikki area, which offer outdoor fun for families.
Nightlife in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The central area around Hämeenkatu and the Tullintori district is known for its vibrant atmosphere. The city offers a mix of traditional Finnish pubs, trendy bars, and live music venues. Tampere also hosts various cultural events and festivals that enhance the nightlife experience.
Sport in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere offers excellent sports facilities and outdoor activities. The city is home to the Tampere Ice Stadium and hosts numerous ice hockey games. The surrounding lakes and forests provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, swimming, and water sports. In winter, cross-country skiing and ice skating are popular. There are also several gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs catering to various interests.
Culture and Attractions in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Vapriikki Museum Centre, which houses multiple museums under one roof, and the Tampere Art Museum. The city is known for its industrial heritage, with landmarks such as the Finlayson and Tampella factory areas. Tampere also hosts various cultural festivals, such as the Tampere Film Festival and the Tampere Theatre Festival, adding to its cultural vibrancy.
Gastronomy in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants serving traditional Finnish cuisine and international dishes. Local specialties include black sausage (mustamakkara) and fresh
Tampere
Tampere, Finland: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Tampere: 9/10 – Tampere is very family-friendly, offering numerous activities for children. Highlights include the Särkänniemi Adventure Park, which features an amusement park, aquarium, planetarium, and Näsinneula Observation Tower. The Moomin Museum provides a unique cultural experience for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters. There are also several parks and playgrounds, such as Koskipuisto and the Pyynikki area, which offer outdoor fun for families.
Nightlife in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The central area around Hämeenkatu and the Tullintori district is known for its vibrant atmosphere. The city offers a mix of traditional Finnish pubs, trendy bars, and live music venues. Tampere also hosts various cultural events and festivals that enhance the nightlife experience.
Sport in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere offers excellent sports facilities and outdoor activities. The city is home to the Tampere Ice Stadium and hosts numerous ice hockey games. The surrounding lakes and forests provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, swimming, and water sports. In winter, cross-country skiing and ice skating are popular. There are also several gyms, swimming pools, and sports clubs catering to various interests.
Culture and Attractions in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Vapriikki Museum Centre, which houses multiple museums under one roof, and the Tampere Art Museum. The city is known for its industrial heritage, with landmarks such as the Finlayson and Tampella factory areas. Tampere also hosts various cultural festivals, such as the Tampere Film Festival and the Tampere Theatre Festival, adding to its cultural vibrancy.
Gastronomy in Tampere: 8/10 – Tampere offers a diverse culinary scene with many restaurants serving traditional Finnish cuisine and international dishes. Local specialties include black sausage (mustamakkara) and fresh fish from the nearby lakes. The city has a range of dining options from casual cafes to fine dining establishments, providing a pleasant culinary experience.
Shopping in Tampere: 7/10 – Shopping in Tampere includes a mix of local boutiques, artisan shops, and modern shopping centers like Koskikeskus and Ratina. The city center has various stores offering fashion, crafts, and local products. While it may not have the extensive shopping options of larger cities, it provides a charming and authentic shopping experience.
Prices in Tampere: 7/10 – Tampere is moderately priced, offering good value for money for accommodation, dining, and shopping. The city provides a range of options to suit different budgets, making it accessible for various types of travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: 110 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15 €
Price of a beer: 6 €
Price of a coffee: 3 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Tampere, Finland
For those looking to explore beyond the urban charm, top day trips near Tampere unveil the beauty of the Finnish lakeland. From the serene trails of Seitseminen National Park to the historic mills of the Häme Region, each outing promises a peaceful break from the city life, offering easy access to the tranquility and scenic landscapes of Finland.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Tampere accommodations offer a variety of choices, from boutique city hotels to lakeside cottages, providing every traveler with a welcoming place to return to after a day of exploration.
FAQ About Things to Do in Tampere, Finland
What are the main attractions in Tampere?
Notable attractions in Tampere include the Särkänniemi Amusement Park, Tampere Cathedral, Pyynikki Observation Tower, and the Vapriikki Museum Centre.
Is the Särkänniemi Amusement Park worth visiting?
Definitely! Särkänniemi offers a range of attractions including an aquarium, a planetarium, an amusement park, and Näsinneula Tower, which is the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries.
Can I explore nature in Tampere?
Yes, Tampere is surrounded by beautiful lakes and forests. The Pyynikki esker offers great hiking trails and views, and the nearby lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi are perfect for boating and fishing.
Are there cultural experiences in Tampere?
Tampere has a rich cultural scene with the Tampere Art Museum, the Finnish Labour Museum Werstas, and the Tampere Theatre. The city also hosts several music and film festivals throughout the year.
What local foods should I try in Tampere?
While in Tampere, don’t miss out on trying the local delicacy ‘mustamakkara’ (black sausage), usually served with lingonberry sauce. Also, explore the city’s vibrant cafe culture and sample Finnish pastries.
Is there a nightlife scene in Tampere?
Tampere offers a lively nightlife with a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs, especially in the downtown area. The city is also known for its live music scene.
What are the best outdoor activities in Tampere?
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like kayaking and canoeing on the Tammerkoski rapids, hiking in the nearby national parks, and skiing or snowshoeing in winter.
Can I take day trips from Tampere?
Yes, there are excellent day trip options from Tampere, including the charming town of Hämeenlinna, the Helvetinjärvi National Park, and the historical town of Porvoo.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampere
https://www.getyourguide.com/tampere-l45587/
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