Visiting Tampere for the first time

Tampere is one of the most beloved Finnish cities among locals due to its urban atmosphere, peculiar museums, and beautiful nature. Tampere has a lot to offer to its visitors, so here comes a brief introduction to the Tampere city for a first-time visitor. 

Tampere Cathedral

One of the main attractions is, for sure the Tampere Cathedral. Built-in a National Romantic style, it reminds of a castle with round windows and fairytale arcs. Tampere Cathedral is famous for its frescoes, painted by the Finnish symbolist Hugo Simberg, but what I like the most about the church is the stained glasses. You cannot find them much in Finland, and here they are large and colorful: something to admire for a long time. 

Visit Särkänniemi

Rarely an amusement park is an attraction (if it is not Disneyland), but this one is definitely a center gaining the tourists' attention. You see, the local amusement park of Särkäniemi is situated on a perfect spot: the edge of the city where grassy hill meets the vast lake. Many people come here just for a walk since the entry is free, but besides beautiful sceneries and countless restaurants, there are a few gems to visit while in Särkäniemi.  For example, my favorite viewpoint is situated in the park: a 134m high TV-tower with gorgeous views on the lake, islands, and the whole city. The entrance fee is around 6 euros, but it is worth it.

 Another gem in Särkäniemi is the Sara Hilden Art Museum, a contemporary corner always holding exhibitions that surprise the visitor. 

Tampere is a beautiful city offering scenic walks, for example, in the Näsi park. It is situated opposite of Särkäniemi; there are hills and a fountain, a playground, and a museum. You can admire the view over the bay from the platform. Yet my favorite thing about this park is the hidden metal statues; they are hardly noticeable. Take a walk and look closely around, how many will you find?

The Pyynikki region

Pyynikki is a marvelous region** to visit. First of all the most famous local cafe is situated here along with the known viewing tower. Besides that, here you can find a beautiful walking spot in a green forest with multiple trails, offering the most scenic views in Tampere**.

Tampere has some well-known breweries. No wonder the winner of the "best Finnish beer"- title comes from Tampere and specifically the Pyynikki brewery: you can visit this brewery and enjoy their fresh-brewed beer right on the spot. Besides that, Tampere's bar scene is diverse and flavorful, so it would be weird to miss it out. 

Vapriikki Museum center

Tampere is a true museum city, specifically famous for the number of its unusual museums. To enjoy the cultural part of Tampere, you can go to Vapriikki, which is a museum center holding many exhibitions. Do not forget to visit my beloved one -  the Finnish Museum of Games. Besides interesting discoveries inside Vapriikki, the best thing about it is the location: Vapriikki is standing on the rapids and situated in the old factory houses. The tile buildings around this area and the floating streams are characteristic and can be seen on many local postcards.  

There are plenty of things to see and do while in Tampere. I am sure that your first visit will definitely be memorable. Enjoy!