Tourist attractions Kemi & Tornio

SnowExperience365 – Winter Every Day of the Year

In Kemi, winter can be experienced all year round. At SnowExperience365, visitors walk across snowy floors, admire impressive ice sculptures that change theme each year, and even glide down an icy slide — no matter the season. Capture a memorable photo at an ice table and enjoy the cool atmosphere of Lapland’s eternal winter.

You’ll find SnowExperience365 by the sea, in the SnowCastle area, one of Kemi’s most popular attractions. The Kemi SnowCastle is among Finland’s most famous winter sights. Each year, architects and artists build its towers, walls, and sculptures from seawater ice, creating a new masterpiece for visitors to explore. Outside, the Winter Park invites families and adventurers to enjoy snowy activities and fast-paced fun.

For accommodation, the Seaside Glass Villas offer panoramic sea views and glass ceilings, allowing guests to watch the northern sky year-round — from the midnight sun in summer to the northern lights in winter.

Icebreaker Sampo – Cruise Through Frozen Seas

Kemi is home to one of Finland’s most unique experiences — a cruise aboard the Icebreaker Sampo. This Arctic vessel takes passengers across the frozen sea, cutting through thick ice and revealing a truly different world. During the trip, you can step into a thermal survival suit and float safely in the icy water, or join an evening cruise to see the northern lights from the deck.

Culture & Creativity – Kemi’s Artistic Heart

Kemi is not only known for snow and sea, but also for its vibrant cultural life. The Kemi Cultural Centre houses a theatre, library, and museum, and hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other events throughout the year.

The Kemi Gemstone Gallery features Europe’s largest collection of gemstones, including replicas of famous Crown Jewels. Art lovers will enjoy the Kemi Art Museum, while the Kemi Museum of History and Kemi Workers’ Museum showcase the city’s fascinating past.

Tornio – Gateway to the Borderlands

Just north of Kemi, Tornio is Finland’s northernmost coastal town, located right next to the Swedish border. Across the river lies Haparanda, forming a close cross-border community where Finnish and Swedish cultures meet. Tornio itself offers a range of attractions and experiences on the Finnish side, combining local history, outdoor activities, and river scenery.

The Tornio River Valley – History of a Natural Border

The Tornionjoki River, one of Europe’s last free-flowing salmon rivers, has shaped the area’s culture and traditions. In summer, visitors can enjoy guided river cruises, canoeing, or try traditional salmon fishing.

A short drive inland takes you to Aavasaksa Hill, part of the historic Royal Route and one of the first places where the midnight sun was scientifically studied. From its viewing points, you can admire wide, open landscapes stretching across the Lapland borderlands.

Tornio’s Old Town – Park and Wooden Heritage

Tornio’s Old Park area (Länsiranta) showcases well-preserved wooden buildings, small boutiques, cafés, and galleries. The area follows the original 17th-century town layout, making it one of the oldest urban environments in Northern Finland. It’s an inviting place to explore local history on foot.

Outdoor Life & Nature Activities

The surroundings of Tornio offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. You can go birdwatching, cycling along scenic river routes, or enjoy cross-country skiing in winter. Popular local activities also include ice fishing and snowshoeing.

For those interested in maritime nature, the nearby Perämeri National Park (Bothnian Bay National Park) showcases Finland’s unique coastal environment, with small islands, historic fishing bases, and kayaking routes. The park is accessible by boat from both Kemi and Tornio during the summer season.