Finland is a country of a thousand lakes, northern lights, tranquility, and a high standard of living. Its nature is breathtaking, its culture inspiring, and its education and healthcare systems are among the best in the world. Despite its relatively small size and population, Finland consistently ranks highly in global indexes. These interesting facts about Finland will help you better understand its uniqueness and reveal many surprising features you might not know.
- Finland has over 188,000 lakes, making it one of the most lake-rich countries in the world. Almost every resident has easy access to a body of water, and fishing and swimming are traditional forms of leisure.
- The country officially has more than 179,000 islands. Many are uninhabited, while some are used as summer homes or peaceful retreats.
- Finland regularly ranks among the happiest countries in the world. This is due to a high level of societal trust, safety, stable economy, and accessible education and healthcare.
- The sauna is considered a national treasure in Finland. There are over two million saunas in the country—nearly one for every citizen—and they can even be found in offices and in the Parliament building.
- The official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish. About 5 percent of the population speaks Swedish fluently, and all signs and official documents are provided in both languages.
- The Finnish education system is among the most progressive in the world. Students have very little homework, and the teaching approach focuses on well-being and personal development.
- Finland’s library system is exemplary, offering free access to books, films, tools, and even sewing machines. The Oodi Central Library in Helsinki has become an architectural landmark in Europe.
- Each year, Finland hosts the World Wife Carrying Championship. Participants must complete an obstacle course while carrying their partner on their back.
- Finland has the longest border with Russia of any European Union country. It stretches over 1,300 kilometers and passes through sparsely populated forest areas.
- The official residence of Santa Claus is located in Rovaniemi, Finland. Visitors can tour the elf workshop and receive a letter signed by Santa himself.
- Finland was the first European country to grant women full voting rights. This happened in 1906 and included the right not only to vote but also to be elected to Parliament.
- The country has a very high level of digitalization. Nearly all public services are available online, and citizens use electronic identification in daily life.
- Literature plays an important role in Finnish culture. Tove Jansson, author of the Moomin books, has become a national icon, and her works have been translated into dozens of languages.
- Finnish design is renowned worldwide. Companies like Marimekko and Iittala are famous for combining aesthetics with functionality in their minimalist styles.
- Finland tested a universal basic income system. For two years, a group of citizens received a fixed monthly payment regardless of their employment status.
- Public transportation in Finnish cities is environmentally friendly and well organized. Helsinki uses contactless payment systems, and some areas operate electric buses.
- Finland is one of the most forested countries in Europe. About 75 percent of its land is covered in forests, and nearly all harvested wood comes from sustainable sources.
- Citizens are allowed to pick berries, mushrooms, and fish without a special permit thanks to the right of public access to nature. This allows everyone to enjoy the gifts of the forest freely.
- In some cities, street lighting adjusts automatically based on pedestrian presence. This helps reduce energy consumption and preserves dark skies for stargazing.
- In Finnish schools, children go outside every day regardless of the weather. Whether it’s snowing, raining, or freezing, they spend time outdoors to support their health and connection with nature.
- Music holds a special place in Finnish society. The country is home to world-famous bands such as Nightwish, HIM, and Apocalyptica, known for their symphonic rock and metal styles.
- Finns are considered one of the most reserved nations in Europe. They value silence, avoid unnecessary talk, and do not view quietness as awkward.
- Finland has a tradition of providing every newborn with a special box from the government. It contains all the essentials for the first months of life, including clothes, a blanket, and even a small mattress.
- Finnish citizens have a high level of trust in the police, courts, and public institutions. Corruption is extremely rare, and transparency is considered a standard.
These amazing and fascinating facts about Finland reveal why this Nordic country is considered one of the best places to live. Its success is built not only on technology and economics but also on mutual respect, trust, and a deep care for the natural world. Finland shows how modernity and tradition can be harmoniously balanced. It stands as a shining example of a society that embraces progress while preserving its unique identity.
