What to do in Tampere? Read our top 20 tips
Tampere combines historic industrial heritage, vibrant culture and stunning natural sites. Discover all the city has to offer!
City articles
20.12.2024
Tampere is a city where history and modernity intertwine. Born on the banks of the Tammerkoski, the city emerged during the Industrial Revolution as the heart of Finnish industry, earning the nickname "Finland's Manchester". The factories of Finlayson and Tampella laid the foundations for the city's growth, and that legacy lives on in the museums and architecture of the city, which bear witness to Tampere's important role in the development of Finnish society.
Tampere is also a city of culture and nature, with something for everyone to do and see. Pyynikinharju outdoor trails, Särkänniemi amusement park and the iconic views of Näsinneula attract visitors all year round. The city's theatres, concerts and museums offer a wide range of cultural activities, while Tammelantori and Finlayson invite you to enjoy local delicacies and dining experiences.
Today's Tampere is a vibrant combination of tradition and innovation. As a centre of technology and creativity, it attracts students, entrepreneurs and tourists. Surrounded by lakes, the city offers the perfect combination of urban pulse and natural tranquillity. Tampere's diverse events and unique atmosphere make it a place where every visit is an experience.
Discover with us the best destinations, activities and attractions in Tampere!
Pyynikinharju is a beautiful natural site near the centre of Tampere. The Pyyniki nature trail runs through a varied landscape of ridges, and along the way you can enjoy views of Lake Pyhäjärvi and Lake Näsijärvi. Along the way, you will discover the ridge and leaf vegetation and refresh yourself in the clean outdoor air.
The Pyynik Lookout Tower is a popular landmark in the area, offering views over the city. The tower's café is the perfect place to sample Pyynik's famous doughnuts. The area is easily accessible by public transport and parking is available nearby.
Hakametsän Ice Hall is a legendary haven of Finnish ice hockey. It is the country's first ice rink and offers an excellent setting for watching the sport. The rink regularly hosts domestic league matches, so you can experience the true Finnish hockey atmosphere as teams battle it out in the rink.
It's worth checking the match schedules in advance and arriving early to enjoy every exciting moment. There are also training halls in the Hakametsä area, where you can see the future promising players developing their skills. A match in Hakametsä is an exciting evening in the long tradition of the sport.
The archipelago of Tammisaari offers a variety of opportunities for boating, canoeing, hiking and exploring nature. The Jussarö mining island, Fladalandet, Modermagan and Rödjan are well-known places where you can camp, light a fire or explore the underwater world by diving. The archipelago is only accessible by water, so planning ahead is recommended. The reward is peaceful natural harbours, the soaring flights of sea eagles and the tranquillity of summer days.
A cruise on Lake Näsijärvi is a great way to experience the beauty of Tampere's waterways. You can choose a traditional cruise where you learn about the history of the lake and the industrial background of the area. If you're looking for something more special, consider a steamer trip that will transport you to the atmosphere of a bygone era. There are a variety of cruises on offer, and you can also book a private event for parties or meetings, for example. There are also other lakes around Tampere, such as Lake Pyhäjärvi, which offer equally unforgettable experiences from the water.
The Lielahdi canal offers a peaceful environment for a walk close to the city's services. In summer, the lush nature and proximity to the water create a pleasant place for a picnic, and for those interested in fishing, the canal is also a popular fishing spot. During the spring and autumn migration, birds are active, so birdwatchers will enjoy the area. In winter, the frozen canal attracts skaters, while nearby historical sites such as the old manor house add value to a visit.
Rauhaniemi Folk Baths is a traditional sauna and swimming spot on the shores of Lake Näsijärvi. There you will find two Finnish saunas, open every day of the year. In summer you can rent a SUP board and enjoy a relaxing day on the lake, while in winter you can experience the refreshing experience of open water swimming. The People's Spa's location close to the centre makes it an easily accessible destination where you can relax in the pools, admiring the lake scenery and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Tampere is an eventful city with plenty to experience all year round. In summer, city festivals, park concerts and outdoor events fill the streets and parks. In autumn and winter, you can enjoy theatre, film festivals, music events or sports competitions.
Many events are open to all, and some are free or low-cost. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere, meet new people and experience the city from a new perspective at different times of the year. Check up-to-date event information in advance to make the most of your visit.
Tampere Hall is the cultural hub of the city, offering a wide range of concerts and events throughout the year. From symphony concerts to chamber music evenings, jazz concerts to rock and pop performances, there's plenty to choose from.
Larger events are usually held in the Great Hall, while smaller halls create a more intimate concert experience. Themed evenings combining different art forms and film concerts broaden the range of cultural experiences. Book your tickets early to enjoy Tampere's vibrant and diverse cultural offer.
The Näsinneula is Tampere's most famous landmark and the second tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries. The observation deck offers a breathtaking view of the city, and the revolving restaurant at the top of the tower offers an immersive dining experience.
The tower is located in the Särkänniemi area, but is open all year round. The Näsinneula is a great place to get an overview of the city and capture memories in photographs.
Särkänniemi is one of Tampere's most popular attractions. Located on the shores of Lake Näsijärvi, this versatile amusement park offers a wide range of rides, from fast-paced roller coasters to more relaxed options. You can also visit the aquarium, planetarium and Koiramäki Zoo, as well as climb the Näsinneula observation tower to admire the city's scenery.
There are games and other activities to test your skills. The area is easily accessible by car and public transport, and parking is available. You can buy a wristband for the amusement park that covers all the rides and attractions - a handy way to explore the whole area.
The Vapriikki Museum Centre is located on the shores of Tammerkoski, offering a diverse cultural experience. At the same time, several exhibitions are on display, with themes ranging from history to technology and science. You can explore both local history and wider phenomena through a variety of artefacts and stories.
You can also enjoy the services of the museum restaurant and buy souvenirs in the museum shop. The museum is easily accessible from the city centre and well connected by public transport. There are also several other interesting museums in Tampere, such as the Art Museum, the Moomin Museum and the Workers' Museum Werstas, which offer different perspectives on urban culture and history.
Tampere Theatre is one of Finland's most important theatres, and its diverse repertoire includes classics, new dramas and musicals. The main theatre on the edge of the central square is a magnificent Art Nouveau building, while the Frenckell theatre offers a more intimate theatre experience in a historic factory setting.
The theatre has something for everyone, and tickets should be booked early as the most popular shows fill up quickly. A visit to the theatre is a great way to spend an evening immersed in culture, stories and emotions.
Guided stargazing evenings on the outskirts of Tampere offer the chance to discover the wonders of the night sky in areas of low light pollution. Knowledgeable guides will show you the constellations, planets and other celestial bodies visible, and telescopes are often available for a closer look.
These evenings are suitable for anyone interested in astronomy. Dress for the weather, bring binoculars if you wish and enjoy an educational and inspiring experience in nature's own planetarium.
The Finlayson area is a historic factory landscape that combines Tampere's industrial heritage with modern services. In the area, you can visit the Vapriikki Museum Centre or the Spy Museum, and if you like, try the rooftop walk, which offers stunning views over the city.
Finlayson's former factory buildings have been given a new life as shops, restaurants and event venues. The architecture, history and modern services combine to create a fascinating place to stay for a longer period of time.
The Pyynik observation tower is one of Tampere's most famous landmarks. It is located on a beautiful ridge with a stunning view over the city. The tower is also home to a popular café where you can enjoy the famous muffins while admiring the view from the heights.
The tower is open all year round, but please check the latest information before you visit. For the more adventurous, there is also a rope drop from the tower - an experience that is sure to be memorable. The Pyynik Lookout Tower is a destination that combines scenic views with a unique treat.
Kulttuuritalo Laikku is a versatile cultural centre in the heart of Tampere. It offers concerts, lectures, exhibitions and other events, many of which are free of charge. Laikku opens its doors to local art and culture in an easily accessible environment.
The history of the building dates back to the time when it was known as a library. Today, Laikku is a place where you can visit at any time to see the exhibitions or enjoy the cultural diversity. Check the calendar of events in advance to find the experiences that interest you.
The wooden house quarter on Puutarhakatu is an idyllic piece of the Tampere of yesteryear. The colourful wooden houses, decorated facades and lush courtyards date from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the area, you can stroll peacefully through the narrow alleys, admire the architectural details and enjoy an atmosphere not found in more modern buildings. The cafés, boutiques and restaurants of the district complete the experience, and it's worth having your camera ready - the setting is great for photography.
Tampere offers a wide range of shopping opportunities. Large shopping centres in the city centre, such as Ratina and Koskikeskus, offer a wide range of international and domestic shops. Stockmann, located on Hämeenkatu, is renowned for its quality brands.
On the outskirts of the city, the Lielahtikeskus offers a wide range of services. Ideapark in Lempäälä is also nearby, attracting visitors with its wide range of offers. Smaller shopping centres, such as Tullintori and Duo, complete the offer.
These shopping centres combine shopping with leisure, as many also offer restaurants, cafés and entertainment.
The Hämeenkatu area in central Tampere offers a wide range of restaurants with different styles and cuisines. There are many interesting places to eat around Tuomiokirkonkatu and Tammerkoski, some offering fine dining experiences, others a more relaxed atmosphere.
The historic factory districts of Tampella and Finlayson have been transformed into diverse restaurant areas. In addition, new eateries in Ratinankärje and the traditional flavours of the Tammela Market area ensure that everyone will find an option to their liking.
Tallipiha is an idyllic destination in the Finlayson area, combining history and atmospheric surroundings. Originally built in the 19th century to serve Wilhelm von Nottbeck's horses and their caretakers, the Stables Yard is now known for its charming boutiques, crafts, delicatessen shops and cafés. The Stables Yard is a year-round excursion destination, well worth a stop for a short break or to pick up a souvenir. The area also hosts a variety of events, so a visit may coincide with a special programme.
Laukontori is a central meeting point in the centre of Tampere. It offers traditional barbecues, cafés and street food stalls where you can enjoy a snack or a meal in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. Fresh berries, vegetables and root vegetables, as well as flea markets and plants are available.
The Laukontori reflects the atmosphere of Tampere and is an excellent place to follow the life of the city. During the summer, the market is particularly busy, giving you the chance to experience authentic Finnish market life at its best.
Tammelantori is a lively and diverse market where you can shop all year round. You can buy fresh vegetables, berries, fish, meat and baked goods, as well as flowers and seasonal specialities in the summer. The market also sells handicrafts and local produce, making it a great place to buy souvenirs or treats to take home.
The market is particularly famous for its fish, and its fish restaurants offer the chance to enjoy fresh smoked fish on the spot. Tammelantori is centrally located, making it easy to continue your journey to the rest of the city.
