Sauna Culture in Finland – What Makes It So Special?
If you ask a Finn what they miss most when traveling - the answer is probably sauna
It’s more than just a hot room. Sauna is part of everyday life in Finland. People go there to relax, think, be quiet, or have deep conversations. No pressure, no small talk — just steam and peace.
And yes — in the past, babies were even born in saunas. That’s how clean and important they were.
🌲 A Quick Look at Sauna History
- Saunas have existed in Finland for over 2,000 years.
- Long ago, people used smoke saunas — small huts with no chimney. You heat the room, let the smoke out, and enjoy the softest steam you can imagine.
- Sauna was used for everything: washing, healing, giving birth, and even saying goodbye before funerals.
- During wars, Finnish soldiers built mobile saunas near the front line. It was that important.
🧊 Sauna and Cold Water
Many Finns love to jump into a frozen lake or roll in the snow after sauna.
This sounds crazy, but it feels amazing. The hot and cold contrast wakes up your body, boosts blood flow, and leaves you feeling happy and refreshed.
In fact, there’s a name for this winter habit: “avantouinti” (ice swimming).
🌊 Where Can You Try Sauna in Helsinki?
Whether you want a modern spa or something more local, there are many great sauna spots in or near Helsinki. Here are a few:
1. Löyly
A modern design sauna by the sea. You can enjoy a warm wood-heated sauna and then jump straight into the Baltic Sea.
2. Sompasauna
This is a free, public sauna built by locals near the harbor. It’s simple, open to everyone, and totally unique. Just bring your own towel and wood!
3. Kuusijärvi
Located a bit outside the city, this spot offers smoke saunas and a lake where you can swim all year round — even in winter.
4. Allas Sea Pool
A great option in the center of Helsinki. You’ll find saunas, warm pools, and views of the sea and Helsinki Cathedral.
5. Island Saunas
Some small islands near Helsinki offer private sauna rentals. You can hike, paddle, or sail there and enjoy total peace.
🔎 Fun and Surprising Sauna Facts
- There are over 3 million saunas in Finland — for 5.5 million people.
- The word “sauna” is Finnish, and it’s used in many languages the same way.
- Some Finns have sauna trailers, sauna boats, and even sauna tents.
- Sauna is the one place where everyone is equal. It doesn’t matter who you are — everyone just sits on the same bench.
✨ Why You Should Try It
Sauna helps you slow down. It’s about disconnecting from stress and reconnecting with yourself. No phones, no noise — just heat, steam, and stillness.
You don’t need to be Finnish to enjoy it.
But once you try a real sauna — you’ll understand Finland better.
Want to Visit a Sauna in or near Helsinki?
We can help you find the best sauna spot for your style — modern, natural, quiet, or social.
Send us a message at Guidance DMC WhatsApp— and we’ll help you make it happen.
