Dubbed the “Manchester of Finland” due to its historical association with the textile industry and numerous waterways, Tampere sites between two large lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi, whose rapids were used to power factories. It’s home to the Moomin Museum, dedicated to the cartoon characters created by Finnish author Tove Jansson; Pispala, a picturesque district on the slopes of Pyynikki Ridge with charming wooden houses; the Tampere International Film Festival; and the Rajaportin Sauna, one of the oldest public saunas in the country. The city’s location in the south makes it easily accessible from the capital, Helsinki.
Lillan Boutique Hotel & Kök
Found in the pretty garden district of Viinikka, just a mile and a half from the centre, this wooden building dates from 1927. Its 11 bedrooms offer true Scandi style, with a slightly vintage feel. The airy onsite restaurant creates its nutritious dishes using local producer’s ingredients from forest, lake and garden, using Finnish childhood flavour memories as inspiration for the menu. Breakfast/brunch are included in the room rate and offer an elegant spread with the likes of smoked salmon mousse à la Lillan and overnight oats. There’s also a lounge and summer terrace for bites and drinks.
Solo Sokos Hotel Torni Tampere
In 2024 this central hotel (that’s right beside the railway station) will celebrate its 10-year anniversary. It’s a landmark on the horizon, rising 88 metres skyward and offering the best views around. Solo Sokos incorporates three restaurants and a rooftop bar at the very top of the tower, Moro Sky Bar, on the 25th floor. The hotel provides a playground for kids and a separate family dining area for breakfast, as well as a gym and free access sauna. Designed in a modern urban style, bedrooms have mattresses that shape to the body.