10 best things to do in the Jyväskylä Region, Lakeland Finland

2. Admire the world famous architecture of Alvar Aalto

Walking through the streets of Jyväskylä, the visitor quickly becomes acquainted with the world-famous architecture of Alvar Aalto. Nowhere else in the world will you find as many of his works from different periods – 29 buildings in total, plus a wooden motorboat designed by Aalto himself. Aalto’s connection to Jyväskylä is unmistakable: he spent much of his childhood here, went to school, started a family and launched the career that would later redefine Nordic design. A perfect place to begin your journey into Aalto’s world is the Aalto2 Museum Centre. For Aalto enthusiasts —and those who’d like to become one — the perfect place to stay is the Aalto‑themed room at the Yöpuu Boutique Hotel. Another great option is Hotel Alba, perfectly located near the Aalto2 Museum Centre.

The Jyväskylä Region is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Petäjävesi Old Church, built by peasant farmers between 1763 and 1765, is a masterpiece of traditional timber construction. Meanwhile, the Oravivuori Triangulation Point of the Struve Geodetic Arc offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s scientific heritage and its impressive Lakeland landscape.

4. Explore Finnish nature in all its diversity in the four national parks of the Jyväskylä Region

The Jyväskylä Region boasts four national parks offering visitors the opportunity to experience Finnish nature in all its diversity. Their trails take visitors up ridges of sighing pines, to the shores of sparkling blue lakes, through vast bogs, fascinating rock fields, wilderness forests and foaming rapids. There are countless ways to explore these landscapes: join a guided or self‑guided hike, paddle through a national park by canoe or on a scenic cruise, or take to the trails on a mountain bike. Some of the routes are also accessible, making the parks welcoming to all visitors.

In summer the Outdoor Express service offers bus departures from the centre of Jyväskylä to the national parks.

6. Stay somewhere truly unique

If you’re looking for accommodation with a story to tell once you’re back home, the Jyväskylä Region has you covered with some wonderfully distinctive places to stay. One of the most unforgettable options is the Ilmatar Airplane Lodge, a fully converted aircraft in the middle of the Finnish countryside, where you can spend the night in comfort. And because this is Finland, of course the plane comes with its own on‑board sauna.

At Ruustinna, you can stay in a culturally historic setting — whether you choose a glamping tent, a charming old vicarage or a cosy new hotel. For those who prefer to be even closer to nature, Luontovire’s forest accommodations offer a peaceful retreat among whispering pines and soft moss underfoot.

8. Kiss a moose

A visit to Finland without seeing a moose – no way! The Jyväskylä Region offers the best chance to meet the king of the forest at Finland’s only moose farm, Moose Manor. The farm is also home to other antlered animals such as reindeer and deer.

10. Find the Finnish happiness

For many Finns, a cottage, a jetty and a lake stretching out into the distance are all they need for a perfect holiday. Thousands of lakes and the region’s picturesque scenery draw locals to the Jyväskylä Region year after year. Here, they unwind, enjoy the warmth of the sauna and take refreshing dips in clean, clear lake water. This is the region where you can spend your holiday just like a Finn!

Find the Finnish happiness in the peace and silence of Lehtoranta Villas, or at Hotelli Viikinhovi, located right next to excellent hiking trails. Or perhaps you’d like to experience the Finnish way of life at Taiken Tila farm. And since the path to happiness often runs through the stomach, Patapirtti Restaurant invites you to enjoy dishes made from pure Finnish ingredients.