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13 Reasons to Visit Espoo, Finland

Priya Johnson
Finland's second largest city, Espoo is an urban city offering a number of trails, hikes, outdoor activities and even trips to the gorgeous Espoo archipelago. Lakes, forests, islands, etc. are all ideal for a lovely holiday in the midst of stunning landscapes.
Espoo Museum of Modern Art
With about 5000 square meters of exhibition space, this museum happens to be the most spacious museum in all of Finland. Both the permanent and the changing collection continues to wow people.
Hevosenkenkä
Toy Museum
This museum is definitely a must-visit with kids. Adults will also enjoy the interactive exhibits that take you back into the evolution of toys and games, right from the time of the Russian rule in the late 19th century.
Besides educating you about the history of toys and games and viewing a collection of classic toy collectibles, you can also enjoy a variety of hands-on exhibits that will truly keep you thrilled and entertained.
Nuuksio National Park
This national park is a treasure of Espoo, and for good reasons. It encompasses beautiful lakes, forests, flora and fauna. A great park for hiking, camping, grilling, fishing, etc.
The best way to enjoy the park is by renting a cabin and staying over at the park. Pick berries, hike or even relax by the beautiful lakes. A wonderful place for photography aficionados.
Nuuksio Reindeer Park
Head over to this reindeer park and get a hands-on experience of feeding lichen to these wonderful creatures. You can also help the caretakers care for them, clean the farm and so much more. Grill sausages during your tour.

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Espoo Ciné
International Film Festival
Finland's leading film festival, this renown film festival takes place annually in the month of August. It showcases over a 110 feature films and 15 short films.
This film festival takes place over a 10-day period, drawing over 25,000 people to view the public screenings. If you're visiting the city during this window, enjoy being around top filmmakers and movie aficionados. The experience is one of a kind.
Espoo Cathedral
This medieval stone church was constructed in the 1480s and happens to be the oldest standing structure in Espoo. It's a true gem of medieval history with priceless medieval murals.
King’s Road
One of the top travel routes in the  Scandinavian region, this 14th century road passes through Espoo along with several other Finnish cities and even extends all the way to Sweden and Norway.
The stone bridge on the King's Road in Espoo happens to be one of the oldest stone bridges in all of Finland. Make sure you photograph this historic bridge and if possible enjoy the sunset from the bridge.
Winter Swimming 
Yet another unique Finnish experience is winter swimming. While there are eight different areas marked for ice swimming, six of them are on the seashore.

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Oittaa Recreation Centre
Situated at the southern end of Lake Bodom, at this center you can enjoy both ice swimming and a sauna experience. The experience of jumping into icy waters and then running into a warm sauna is truly a memorable experience.
Cross Country Skiing
Well maintained, world-class skiing tracks exist in Espoo, stretching over 200 km in length. It's a wonderful opportunity to try out cross country skiing in a country where it's equivalent of a national sport.

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Explore Espoo’s Islands
The Espoo archipelago comprises of 165 amazing islands, each of which are worth exploring. You can sign up for a cruise on which you can enjoy the scenic beauty, along with good food and a narrator to guide you through.
Camping on Espoo Islands
Seven of the 165 islands allow tourists and visitors to camp on them. Basic camping facilities are provided, however, you need to carry drinking water along. Almost like a Robinson Crusoe camping experience.
Tapiola Garden City
If you thought Espoo is all about nature, this urban neighborhood in Espoo will blow your mind. An architectural pearl, this garden city is the perfect amalgamation of moden buildings and nature.