The diverse city of Tampere is the perfect holiday destination for all ages as it offers a wide range of amenities and entertainment. The landscape is dominated by two large lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, the Tammerkoski rapids flowing through the city centre and the Näsinneula Observation Tower at the Särkänniemi amusement park. In addition to urban nature and theme park amusements, many visitors come to the city for its thriving theatre scene and wide range of other cultural activities.
The city of Tampere was founded in 1779 on the banks of the Tammerkoski rapids and gradually developed into an important industrial city. Today, Tampere is the largest non-coastal city in the Nordic countries. The banks of the Tammerkoski rapids still feature the old, redbrick factory buildings characteristic of the city, and several bridges cross the rapids. Thanks to its industries, Tampere was one of the first cities to introduce technology education, and today Tampere is known as a university town specialising in technology.
Tampere is a real city of culture, organising annual cinema festivals, as well as other festivals. The city’s theatre scene is held in high regard thanks to the famous, open air Pyynikki Summer Theatre, and many other theatres. Tampere is also known as a city of authors and literature. Begin your visit with a pleasant evening of theatre and dinner, followed by a relaxing time in a pleasant hotel.
In addition to its theatres and festivals, Tampere also has a wide variety of museums. Fascinating exhibitions can be found at Tampere Art Museum, as well as the nearby Amuri Museum of Workers’ Housing. Other popular museums include Vapriikki Museum Centre, which is home to several museums and exhibitions. During your trip to Tampere, make time for a brief tour of the city’s architecture and discover the city’s lovely churches. The city’s architectural gems include the market hall, which opened in 1901.
Families with children particularly enjoy visiting Tampere. Many head for Tales from the Moominvalley, which features original Moomin illustrations by Tove Jansson. The real attraction, however, is Särkänniemi amusement park, which features numerous things to see and do. The large amusement park’s most well-known landmark is the 168 metre high Näsinneula Observation Tower. After the thrilling rides of Särkänniemi, you could visit the Sara Hildén Art Museum, the Planetarium, or the Children’s Zoo.
Waterways and forested ridges are an essential part of the Tampere landscape. You can go for a walk out in the open and yet be close to the heart of the city. A good place to start a walk is by the Tammerkoski rapids, which run through the city centre and have been chosen as one of Finland’s cultural heritage sites. Head further afield to the Pyynikinharju esker by the shore of Lake Pyhäjärvi and find the Pyynikki Observation Tower, which affords beautiful views over the scenic lakes. You can also climb the ridges in the area by visiting the unique city district of Pispala.
It is easy to get to Tampere and the surrounding scenic landscape by bus or train, or by air from further away. Set aside several days for your trip so that you have time to try famous Tampere delicacies such as black pudding and doughnuts.