The traditions of St Valentine’s Day are celebrated in most places around the world but in Finland February 14th has a slightly different vibe. Here it is known as Ystävänpäivä and it is not just for lovers or stereotypical couples – it’s much more inclusive than that and sure to be welcome news to anyone who dreads the date coming around every year. Ystävänpäivä is known as Friends Day in Finland and as the name suggests, the idea is to celebrate friendship. Ystävänpäivä is a public declaration of friendship and every other relationship permutation really.

It’s commonplace to give cards, flowers and chocolates to friends, neighbours and colleagues as well as romantic partners and spouses. The beauty of celebrating this day in Finland, especially Tampere, is that you don’t need a plus one. In addition to this unique way of celebrating all sorts of relationships and friendships, Tampere is super inclusive and everyone is welcome to the Ystävänpäivä party.

If a city break with a difference is on the cards this year, Tampere is the place to be. It’s still pretty chilly in February but that only adds to the fun – simply wrap up and enjoy everything the city has to offer. The beauty of a city like Tampere is its location. Nestled between Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhä­järvi – it’s an intoxicating mix of urban experiences and exhilarating outdoor adventures.

Did you know Finland has topped the world happiness index six times in a row and Tampere is the Finns favourite city? Chase away the winter blues and tap into that Finnish cheer.

Here’s some of the best things to do in Tampere in February to help you find your happy place. Grab your ‘galentine’ or anyone else in your life that means something and jet off to this Finnish gem for a break that can be as romantic or platonic as you like.

Fancy yourselves as the next Torville and Dean? You can go ice skating on lake Tohloppijärvi or practise your toe loops and Salchow jumps at the artificial ice rink at Sorsapuisto Park and go ice skating during the public hours at the ice rinks (e.g. in Koulukatu, in Pyynikki area). If that’s not exhilarating enough, try ice swimming – The city is situated between two large lakes and offers the chance to take a dip in the frozen lake or have a sauna and dip yourself in lake Pyhäjärvi at Sauna & Restaurant Kuuma.

Did you know that Tampere is the Sauna Capital of the World? After your icy adventures, treat yourself to  the ultimate Finnish wellbeing treat and what better place to let off a little steam? Some hotels offer rooms with private saunas too!

There are plenty of romantic things to do in Tampere if a loved up city break is what you’re looking for. Head to Näsinneula Observation Tower for romantic dinner for two in the Restaurant Näsinneula  it gives you a bird’s-eye view over the Finnish Lakeland, admiring stunning scenery as you tuck into delicious food – or gaze into each other’s eyes – whatever floats your boat.

And if music be the food of love, treat yourselves to tickets for a performance by Tampere Philharmonic orchestra at Tampere Hall. Full details of what’s on in February and the rest of the year can be found here

Don’t forget to explore the Finlayson area which, in a past life, was an old cotton factory but today it serves as a multi-functional culture, leisure and entertainment hub with museums, cafes, restaurants, cinemas and an escape room.

And another special place to visit in the region is the Serlachius Museum which boasts an impressive art collection as well as…you guessed it – an art sauna! An unmissable attraction for anyone wanting to know more about sauna culture combined with nature, art and architecture.

Bring your lover, your brother, your sister, your friend, your Mum, whoever!  It’s all one big happy family in Tampere and you never know, if you’re single and ready to mingle, cupid’s arrow just might strike. Will the man or woman of your dreams be waiting for you in those icy waters or steamy saunas? Come and find out…

How to get here:

Flights and connections to Tampere are available from a number of European cities. See here for the best routes. Flying to Helsinki is an option. An easy, regular train service runs from Helsinki to Tampere.