Finnish Sauna Culture: What Tourists Should Know

When you plan your trip to admire the scenic beauty of Finland, most of the travelers plan their trip around the Northern Lights and the snowy vistas- however, the true Finnish way of life can be found in their sauna culture. The more than three million saunas around the country make it more than a wellness practice, it is a tradition. Don t forget to get your Finland Visa before you pack your bags to start your trip into this warm and soothing culture. 

It is in the sauna that the Finns socialize, unwind and re-establish contact with nature and themselves. Be it a city hotel or a cottage by the lake, the experience of sauna is nearly certain. But along with it there are customs and etiquettes. This guide will provide you with all the information you require to have a really authentic Finnish sauna experience, in a respectful, comfortable, and local way. 

Experience the warmth of Finnish tradition with this essential guide to sauna culture for tourists. 

1. Saunas Are Everywhere in Finland 

You can find saunas literally everywhere, whether you are in a small village or in the heart of Helsinki: in private houses and apartments, in office blocks and even on cruise liners. It is so common that a big number of Finns cannot live without one. Being a guest, you will most probably have a chance to taste one during your visit, so do not miss the chance to immerse yourself in this national craze. 

2. It’s a Way of Life, Not a Luxury 

To the Finns, sauna is not a luxury but an everyday occurrence. People take it after work, before dinner or even in the morning. It is a spot to rest, ruminate and renew. It is not posh like spas in other countries, but it is basic, comfortable and very significant to the Finnish lifestyle. 

3. Silence and Respect Are Key 

The time spent in a sauna is quiet time. In the traditional saunas, loud conversations, cell phones or boisterousness are not welcomed. It is a time of silence, contemplation and in many cases, introspection. When you are visiting with the locals, check how they conduct themselves and do as they do. It is simply relaxation in a calm environment. 

4. You Can Choose to Wear a Towel 

Nudity in Finnish saunas is totally natural, particularly among friends and relatives. But as a tourist, you are not supposed to adhere to this practice in case you are not feeling comfortable. It is quite all right to wear a towel or swimsuit, particularly in the public or mixed-gender saunas. Then don t forget to take a shower beforehand as a matter of courtesy and hygiene. 

5. Traditional Smoke Saunas Are Unique 

The most primitive kind of a sauna in Finland is smoke saunas or savusauna. They have no chimneys and the smoke used to fill the room when heating and then it is aired before use. The effect is a mild, aromatic heat which many find the most traditional sauna experience. They are hard to come by, therefore having one is a treat. 

6. Cold Dips Are Part of the Ritual 

An authentic Finnish sauna experience would not be complete without a freezing dip in a lake or snow following the warming up process. It may seem dramatic, but it is invigorating and supposedly excellent circulation. This hot-and-cold routine is the thing that many Finns live by, and you will even find saunas placed right beside lakes just so they can take advantage of this. 

7. Birch Whisks Are Used for Circulation 

Birch whisks, also called, “vihta” or “vasta” are used to lightly whack the skin during the sauna session. It aids in the circulation of blood and fills the air with a nice smell. This aspect of the ritual may sound weird, but it is a beloved tradition and quite relaxing, once performed carefully. 

8. Sauna Beer Is a Thing 

It is very common that Finns like to have cold beer or cider following a sauna. It is not a party thing, it is a relax and socialize thing. The beverage is normally light and it is rather a refreshing custom than a requirement. Don t forget to drink water though, saunas are quite drying. 

9. Public and Private Options Are Available 

There are public saunas in such cities as Helsinki, where both locals and tourists can be found. These are either gender specific or mixed. There are also a lot of hotels and cabins with their own saunas, so it is possible to find a more personal experience. Anyway, you will experience this important element of Finnish culture. 

10. Families Sauna Together 

Saunas in Finland are not only the domain of the adult population, but also of the family. People get acquainted with sauna life early in their childhood, and it is normal that families sauna together. It is a period of bonding, narrating stories and relaxing. When you are invited to a family sauna, then you should know that it is an honor, and this is how they treat you. 

Conclusion 

Your trip to Finland would be incomplete without the classic sauna experience in Finland. It is not merely the process of warming up and sweating but a sauna is a tradition that is ingrained in the way of life and identity of the Finnish people. Knowing the rules and the rhythm of sauna procedure may add value to your whole traveling experience and allow you to interact with the locals on a whole new level. 

When you are traveling out of India, do not forget to apply well in advance to get your Finland visa from India so that you can have this wonderful cultural experience without any last minute rushes. Then by all means, enter the heat, take a deep breath and allow the sauna to be your most cherished Finnish experience.