20 tips for finding things to do in Kemi
Kemi offers a variety of experiences for the traveller: visit a snow castle, explore a winery, enjoy a night cruise and relax in a salt stone sauna.
City articles
11.11.2024
Kemi, the southernmost city in Finnish Lapland, offers a variety of experiences all year round. This maritime destination attracts tourists with its unique attractions and activities. In Kemi you can enjoy natural beauty, culture and history. The city is particularly known for its winter attractions, but it is a charming destination at any time of year. Local traditions and craftsmanship have remained strong, reflecting the region's rich history and northern location.
Discover the best of Kemi with us!
Explore Kemi's harbour and marine park, which offer a picturesque setting for relaxing and enjoying the sea views. The harbour area has been renovated in recent years, making it an even more attractive place to visit. In the inner harbour you can admire the boats and enjoy the maritime atmosphere. The area also has a guest marina and sailing centres, serving both locals and visitors.
The Marine Park is a great place for a walk or a picnic. In the park you can explore the museum area, which includes the old customs building from 1912. In summer, the harbour comes alive with cafés, restaurants and events. You can sit on the pier, soak up the sun and watch the sea life.
Archipelago excursions and cruises also depart from the harbour, offering the opportunity to experience Kemi's marine nature up close. These excursions are a great way to see the city from a new perspective and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.
Recharge your batteries by walking along the Kemijoki River, which offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful scenery. The path along the river is easy to follow and suitable for all types of walkers. As you walk, you can admire the flowing water and the surrounding nature, while the silhouette of the city of Kemi looms in the background.
Along the route there are benches and rest stops where you can stop to enjoy the scenery. In summer, the area is lush and birdlife is abundant. Bring your camera, as the trail offers great photo opportunities at different times of the year. At sunset the river surface reflects stunning colours, and in winter the frozen river makes for an impressive sight.
Walking along the Kemijoki River is a relaxing way to explore the city's nature and get a moment of peace from the city's hustle and bustle.
Experience a unique experience by taking a Sampo icebreaker cruise on the frozen sea of Kemi. This four-hour cruise offers the opportunity to experience the wonders of the Arctic Ocean from the deck of an icebreaker. Listen to the icebreaker crack through the thick ice and admire the surrounding icy landscape.
During the cruise, the ship stops in the middle of the sea, allowing you to step onto the ice or even float among the ice blocks in an extra-warm lifejacket. On a guided tour, you will discover the fascinating history and technology of the ship, which has remained virtually unchanged since the 1960s. You will also receive a diploma to commemorate this unique experience.
The cruise includes a buffet lunch or brunch in the ship's restaurant and a welcome drink. The Sampo has been carrying passengers for 35 years, making it a true classic among the winter activities in Kemi. Cruises are available during the winter season, so it's worth booking your place in advance.
On summer nights in Kemi you can enjoy a unique night cruise, when the sun does not set below the horizon but lights up the sky all night long. A boat trip on the magnificent scenery of the Kemijoki River offers a peaceful and refreshing experience. Admire the surrounding nature and enjoy the magical atmosphere of a nightless night.
During the cruise it is possible to anchor on one of the nearby islands. There you can enjoy an atmospheric evening meal around a campfire in the midnight sun. The Night Night Cruise is an excellent way to experience the magic of Lapland's summer, offering a unique opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of northern nature.
Cruises are usually organised between June and July, when nights are at their lightest. Book early, as these experiential excursions are popular and fill up quickly.
Pyhätunturi National Park offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation and outdoor activities. It is located about 150 km from Kemi, which makes it a perfect day trip destination. In the national park you can enjoy a variety of hiking trails through varied landscapes - fells, streams, lakes, bogs and primeval forests.
Hiking is popular in the summer, with well-marked trails and signposts to make it easy. You can choose the length and level of difficulty that suits you, whether it's a leisurely stroll or a more demanding hike. In winter, the National Park turns into a winter wonderland; you can ski on the well-maintained slopes, try snowshoeing or enjoy downhill skiing on the slopes of Pyhätunturi.
The national park has several rest stops and picnic areas where you can enjoy a picnic in the middle of nature and admire the stunning scenery. But remember to follow the principles of litter-free hiking and respect for nature. Pyhätunturi National Park is an excellent destination for enjoying the peace and beauty of nature, offering experiences all year round.
Kemi Church is an impressive neo-Gothic building designed by architect Josef Stenbäck and completed in 1902. The church's tall bell tower, 44 metres high, makes it one of the city's most prominent landmarks. The large round window above the main entrance is a typical feature of neo-Gothic architecture.
Once inside, you will notice the large windows in the altar wall, which let in plenty of natural light into the church hall and create a unique atmosphere. The church is a brick-built oblong with two aisles, giving it an impressive interior space. The church is open to visitors, so you can learn more about its history and architectural details. Be sure to respect the sanctity of the place during your visit.
Kemi Church is an important part of the city's history and culture. It has served the congregation for over a century and continues to be an active place of worship and a venue for various events.
The Gemstone Gallery in Kemi is one of the city's most important attractions. It is located in the inner harbour of Kemi, by the sea, in a former customs house built in 1912. The gallery was established in 1986 and is the largest jewellery gallery in Europe. Here you can admire over 3 000 stones from around 60 different countries.
Pearls in the collection include the crown of the uncrowned King of Finland and a replica of the Queen of England's crown. The replica is so accurate that only an expert can tell the difference between it and the original. You can also see gemstones from the African Star, such as topazes, emeralds and rubies. These stunning stones offer a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of gemstones.
A visit to the Gemstone Gallery in Kemi will give you a comprehensive overview of the different types of raw stones and jewellery from around the world. It is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit to Kemi.
The Kemi Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival is one of the most important winter events in the city. It is held annually as part of the activities in the SnowCastle area. At the festival you can admire elaborate snow and ice sculptures created by freezing sea water. See how professionals and amateurs transform ice and snow into stunning works of art.
You can watch the sculptors at work and see how the sculptures take shape over the days. The festival also offers the chance to take part in workshops to learn the basics of snow and ice carving. The event attracts visitors from all over the world and is a great opportunity to discover the local winter culture and enjoy a unique atmosphere.
During the festival, the LumiLinna area is full of life. You can combine admiring the sculptures with other winter activities in the area, such as ice skating or snow sliding. Remember to dress warmly, as the sculptures will be admired outdoors. Bring your camera to capture these magnificent but temporary works of art.
The Kemi History Museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the city's rich past. The museum is located in the Kemi Cultural Centre, next to the library and the art museum. The museum is free of charge and accessible to all visitors. The permanent collection exhibition takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of Kemi and the surrounding area.
The museum's mission is to preserve and present the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of Kemi. The exhibitions bring local history to life and introduce you to the diverse culture of the region. You can explore the historical sites of the coastal area through a new guided route that shows the sites in their original locations.
Other museums in the city also operate under the auspices of the Kemi History Museum. These include the Yli-Jaakheikki Smokehouse in Meripuisto and the Kemi Workers' Museum and the Museum of Finnish Craftsmen in Marttala. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of the history and traditions of the region.
The Kemi Cultural Centre is a central event venue in the city, offering a wide range of cultural experiences. It is located in the heart of the city and serves as a meeting point for art and culture lovers. At the Cultural Centre you can enjoy a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year. The facilities are suitable for smaller performances as well as larger concerts.
The centre's lobby often features works by local artists. You can admire their artful creations and get inspired to be creative. The Cultural Centre regularly organises workshops and courses in different artistic disciplines. You can take part and learn new skills or deepen your existing knowledge.
It also hosts interesting lectures and discussions on topical issues. They provide an opportunity to broaden your perspectives and contribute to the social debate. The Cultural Centre's programme also includes film screenings, theatre performances and music events. You can enjoy a wide range of cultural activities in one place.
Visit the Kemi Art Museum, an important cultural site in the city. The museum focuses especially on contemporary art from Lapland, making it a unique place to visit. The museum has a collection of around 2 500 works, including paintings, drawings, sculptures and prints from the early 19th century to the present day.
When you visit the museum, you will get to know the art of northern Finland in a variety of ways. The exhibitions change regularly, so every visit is a chance to see something new. The Art Museum also acts as a regional museum of responsibility, collecting knowledge about the visual arts and showcasing the region's visual arts in the Tornionjokilaakso area.
Kemi Art Museum is the oldest art museum in Northern Finland. Its long history and expertise guarantee a quality art experience for visitors. A visit to the museum will give you an insight into contemporary art from the north and new perspectives on regional art. The museum is an ideal destination for art lovers and cultural travellers alike.
Experience Finnish sauna culture by relaxing in a sauna in Kemi. There are several public saunas in the town, as well as sauna facilities offered by hotels and accommodation establishments. Taking a sauna is an integral part of the Finnish way of life, and in Kemi you can experience it in its most authentic form.
If you want an authentic local experience, rent a cottage in the Kemi area. Most of the cottages have their own sauna, where you can enjoy a peaceful sauna in the middle of nature. In winter, we recommend you try open water swimming in the sauna - a refreshing combination for an unforgettable experience.
After a night in the sauna, head to local restaurants or bars for dinner or a refreshing drink. Be sure to respect local sauna customs and etiquette; ask staff or locals for advice if necessary to ensure a pleasant sauna experience.
In Kemi you can enjoy a unique salt stone sauna, which combines the health benefits of traditional Finnish sauna and salt stones. The salt stone sauna offers a relaxing and purifying experience; the walls of the sauna are lined with salt stones, which release beneficial minerals and negative ions through the heat.
The temperature in the sauna is usually lower than in a normal sauna, which makes the experience pleasant even for those who do not enjoy the intense heat. However, the air is very dry, which enhances perspiration and body cleansing. Saltstone saunas are believed to help with respiratory problems, improve skin condition and relieve stress.
You can try a salt stone sauna at local spas or wellness centres in Kemi, for example. Take time to enjoy this special sauna experience and let your body and mind relax in the healing power of salt.
Pohjanranta winery offers a unique experience near Kemi. The historic farm has been cultivated for over a thousand years, and today the fertile fields by the Kemijoki River are planted with vines - as many as 12 000 vines.
You can explore the winery and taste local wines. Guided tours of the winery are available to learn about the secrets of winemaking. You can buy local products from the winery shop, including books, mugs and other souvenirs as well as wine.
If you can't make it there, you can also shop online at the Pohjanranta online store. There you will find a wide range of farm products delivered to your door. Pohjanranta winery is an excellent destination for wine lovers and those interested in local culture, offering an interesting insight into the agriculture and innovative entrepreneurship of the Kemi region.
Kemi's Snow Castle is one of the city's most famous attractions, offering unique experiences all year round. Step into a winter wonderland every season in the SnowExperience365 experience space, where you can admire stunning sculptures made of snow and ice.
The outdoor Winter Park invites all ages to enjoy snowy activities. Experience the thrill of speed on snow slides and other winter activities in an atmospheric setting. The main building of the Snow Castle offers a wide range of services; you can stay overnight, enjoy the restaurant or hold a meeting in a unique setting.
Kemi is well connected and Lumilinna is easily accessible by plane, train or bus. Kemi-Tornio Airport is only 8 km from Lumilinna. Snow Castle is built from sea water, which is transformed into magnificent walls, towers, snow and ice sculptures. Your visit to Kemi Snow Castle
The Perämeren Ikkuna is a popular lookout point in Kemi, offering a magnificent view of the sea. The nearby parking area offers convenient parking for visitors. The parking area is spacious and well-maintained, and parking is free - a nice advantage for tourists.
Leave your car safely parked and head to the observation deck a short walk away. You can enjoy the peaceful scenery of the Bothnian Sea and admire the seascape stretching to the horizon. Please note that the parking area can be quite crowded at the busiest times, so it is advisable to arrive a little earlier, especially during the summer season or on event days.
Spend a culture-filled evening at the Kemi City Theatre, the only professional theatre in Meri-Lap. The theatre offers a diverse programme of drama, comedy and musicals. The theatre is centrally located in the centre of Kemi at Sauvosaarenkatu 4, making it easy to get to.
Kemi City Theatre has a long history and has been an integral part of the city's cultural life for decades. The performances are of a high standard and have been praised by both local audiences and visitors. You can check the current programme on the theatre's website and book tickets conveniently online or directly at the box office.
A visit to the theatre is a great way to deepen your cultural experience in Kemi and enjoy a professional performance in a comfortable environment.
Restaurant Merihovi is one of the most prominent restaurants in Kemi, located on the second floor of Hotel Merihovi. The restaurant's interior is full of old-fashioned glamour and the atmosphere of the grand parties of yesteryear. Enjoy your meal in an environment that combines historical charm and elegance.
Merihovi is known for its quality food and first-class service. The restaurant offers both traditional Finnish delicacies and international flavours, prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant's location in a landmark building in the city makes it particularly interesting; the building was completed in the late 1940s and has retained its dignity over the years.
A visit to Restaurant Merihov is more than just a meal - it's a complete experience. Enjoy delicious food, atmospheric surroundings and a high level of service that combine to make your evening unforgettable.
K-Citymarket Kemi offers a wide range of groceries and speciality products, making it a convenient shopping destination for all types of customers. The store is well known for its fresh produce department and varied seasonal offers. In addition, the spacious store is easy to navigate, and while you shop you can enjoy the café.
Prisma Kemi combines groceries with a comprehensive range of home, electronics, fashion and sports products. Prisma's attractive price-quality ratio and wide opening hours make it a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. The store also offers good parking facilities and smooth customer service.
Kemi Market Square is the heart of the city, where locals and tourists meet all year round, but especially during the summer season. The market has a lively and warm atmosphere, inviting you to enjoy local delicacies.
The vitality of the market comes from the diverse stalls selling fresh food such as berries, vegetables, fish and baked goods. During the summer, the market offers a special selection of produce from local farmers and producers. Popular fish products such as smoked fish and local roe are particularly in demand.
The market often sells handicrafts such as knitwear, jewellery and other unique products that reflect Lapland's culture and traditions. During the summer, there are also themed days, such as markets and music performances.
