Lahti is a diverse city with lots to see and do. Despite its small size, it offers visitors many experiences. Lahti is known for its sporting traditions and its beautiful nature, which attracts outdoor activities all year round.
The city attracts tourists with interesting museums, theatre and live music events. A variety of dining and shopping options offer a complementary experience for travellers looking for an urban adventure without forgetting their roots.
Discover with us the best places in Lahti!
Lahti offers a wide range of cultural experiences for its visitors. The city has interesting museums, theatre performances and other attractions that tell the story of the region's rich history and art.
When you arrive in Lahti, don't miss the Finnish Motorcycle Museum, the only one of its kind in Finland. The museum exhibits more than 100 motorcycles from different eras, offering a fascinating insight into the history and development of the sport. Changing exhibitions always bring something new to see, making each visit unique.
The legendary Ace Cafe Lahti, where you can enjoy tasty burgers, fresh salads and fresh doughnuts, is also located next to the museum. Ideally located, the museum is easily accessible by car and public transport. This destination perfectly combines motorcycle culture and delicious taste experiences.
The Finnish Ski Museum in the Lahti Sports Centre is a real treasure for winter sports fans. The museum's extensive collections cover the history of skiing, cross-country skiing, combined, cross-country skiing and alpine skiing, both in Finland and internationally.
Interactive experiences, such as the ski jumping simulator, allow you to try out your jumping skills virtually. You can also test your accuracy on the laser shooting range in cross-country skiing. Changing exhibitions keep visits interesting time and time again.
If you want to deepen your knowledge of Lahti's history and culture, the Lahti City Museum is the place for you. The museum offers a wide range of exhibitions that show the city's development from a small village to a modern centre.
You'll see local artefacts from different eras that tell stories about the archaeology, culture and industrial heritage of the area. The museum also hosts a range of events and workshops to make your visit interactive and educational.
Located right in the centre of Lahti, the museum is easily accessible and perfect for a day trip or a longer visit.
Lahti City Theatre is a popular cultural destination, offering a wide range of performances for those interested in different cultural experiences.
In the theatre you can enjoy drama, comedy and musicals. The 2024 programme includes "Gösta's Best" and "SuomiFilm's Secret Files", which have received praise from audiences and critics alike.
The theatre is centrally located in Lahti, making it easy to get there by public transport or by car. During the performances you can enjoy the services of the theatre's restaurant and make your evening a complete experience.
The Sibelius House is Lahti's pride and joy and a renowned concert hall that offers great musical experiences all year round. The building is architecturally impressive, combining wood and glass in a modern way, and is known for its excellent acoustics.
You can enjoy Lahti Symphony concerts covering classical music or attend other events such as pop and rock concerts. The Sibelius House also offers restaurant and café services, so you can combine a musical experience with a delicious meal.
Check the events calendar in advance and book your tickets early so you don't miss out on unforgettable concerts.
Taidepanimo is a unique cultural destination in the heart of Lahti, where art and craft brews meet in a historic industrial environment. During your visit, you can explore exhibitions by local artists while enjoying the brewery's own beers.
The brewery also organises a range of events, such as music nights and art workshops, to make your visit even more memorable. Its communal atmosphere and distinctive concept make it a stand-out destination that you won't want to miss on your visit to Lahti.
Lahti has many beautiful churches and chapels, offering peaceful moments in the heart of the city.
The Church of the Holy Cross, designed by Alvar Aalto, is an architectural gem in a modern style. You can admire its simple but impressive design and enjoy the magnificent acoustics of the church hall.
The Lahti Sea Chapel is beautifully located on the shores of Lake Vesijärvi, offering stunning views and the opportunity to relax in the midst of nature.
By visiting these shrines, you will have a unique experience of Lahti's spiritual and cultural heritage.
Lanunaukio is a cosy square in the centre of Lahti, known for its modern architecture and artworks. Along the promenade you can admire sculptures and installations by local artists, bringing culture into the cityscape.
There are also a number of shops, cafés and restaurants in the area, so you can easily combine shopping and dining with art. In summer, Lanuna Square hosts open-air events such as concerts and markets.
The beautiful nature and diverse outdoor activities in Lahti invite you to enjoy the fresh outdoor air. The city offers great parks, water bodies and sports facilities, perfect for relaxation and active pursuits.
Lake Vesijärvi Rantapuisto is located close to Lahti harbour and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
In the park you can enjoy beautiful lake views, have a picnic or just relax in the lap of nature. There is also the possibility to rent SUP-boats or boats if you want to explore Lake Vesijärvi from the water.
During the summer, the park hosts events and concerts that add to the attraction of the area. The waterfront park is the perfect place to spend a sunny day outdoors enjoying the beautiful nature of Lahti.
The Salpausselkä Sports Centre is an internationally renowned centre for sport and outdoor activities, offering a wide range of opportunities all year round.
In winter, you can ski on floodlit slopes, try your hand at downhill skiing or watch ski jumping competitions on world-famous jumps. In summer, the area is a great place for mountain biking, jogging and frisbee golf in the hilly landscape.
The sports centre also houses a ski museum and a land pool, so you can easily combine several activities in one day. The area's scenic ridges and forests make outdoor activities an enjoyable experience for all nature lovers.
The miniature golf course in Laune Family Park also offers fun activities for a group of friends. Located in a lush park, the course is suitable for beginners and more experienced players alike.
You can spend a relaxing moment in the open air playing mini-golf while enjoying the park's other facilities, such as play areas and a café. Combine a picnic or picnic lunch with your day of minigolf and make it a memorable part of your visit to Lahti.
Isku Areena is Lahti's sports hub, especially for ice hockey fans. It serves as the home arena of the SM-League team Pelicans, and there you can experience the exciting atmosphere of ice hockey matches.
The arena is located close to the train station and the city centre, making it easy to get to. Isku Arena also hosts other events such as concerts and fairs, so there is something for all tastes.
Whether you're attending a sporting event or any other occasion, the arena's restaurant services will make your stay a pleasant one.
Although Kariniemi Park is primarily a nature and outdoor destination, there are several cafés and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy local delicacies. After a day in the park, it's nice to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal. There are also various events and markets in the area where you can find local produce and handicrafts.
There are plenty of options for food and shopping in Lahti. The city's diverse restaurant and shopping options ensure you'll always find something new to try and buy.
Karisma Shopping Centre is one of the largest shopping centres in Lahti, offering a wide range of shops and services. Here you can find everything from fashion to homeware, and spend a pleasant day shopping. The shopping centre also has several cafés and restaurants where you can take a break from shopping. Karisma is easily accessible by car and public transport.
Although Messilä Ski Resort is particularly known for its winter sports facilities, there are also several restaurants and cafés in the area where you can enjoy tasty food and drinks. After a day of skiing, you can relax in the cosy surroundings and sample local delicacies. Messi also hosts various events throughout the year, such as food festivals and music evenings, providing further reasons to visit this diverse destination.
