Nature sights

Tampere is located on a narrow strip of land between two vast lakes. Moreover, there are some 200 smaller lakes, all within the city limits.

Important elements of the landscape also include the Tammerkoski Rapids with its banks and the high ridges with their spectacular views formed by ice and the sea. The two most famous ridges are Pyynikki and, next to it, Pispala, which is also known as a picturesque hillside housing area.

Tampere is also known for its green parks and outdoor recreation areas such as Pyynikki and Kauppi.

Arboretum

Tampere Arboretum is a botanical park dedicated to trees and bushes typical of the region. Moreover, there is lovely rose garden, at its most beautiful in July-August.

Arboretum is open to the public 24 hours. Free admission. Local bus nr 3, 7, 21, get off at Hatanpää hospital.

Hatanpää Arboretum and Rose Garden

Kauppi outdoor recreation area

The lush Kauppi outdoor recreation area allows visitors an opportunity to relax and exercise right in the heart of the city.

Besides a variety of facilities and halls for various sports, there are excellent opportunities for Nordic walking, jogging, trekking and cross-country skiing.

The beautiful lakeside and forest setting also provides a peace of nature haven just a few minutes away from the bustling city life.

Kauppi Sports Park

National parks

Tampere Region houses two magnificent national parks, Seitseminen and Helvetinjärvi, both definitely worth a visit.

Further information on the website:

Outdoors.fi

Parks in Tampere

Besides the unique Pyynikki Ridge with surroundings, there are several beautiful parks in the city of Tampere as well.

Take a leasurely stroll in Hämeenpuisto Park, see the oldest tombs and memorial stones in the city in Pyynikki Church Park - Tampere's first graveyard -, have a summery picnic in Koskipuisto Park or Sorsapuisto Park, located next to Tampere Hall.

Parks in Tampere

Pyynikki Ridge

Pyynikki Ridge, an impressive reminder of the glacial period, rises between the lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. The lush pine forest of Pyynikki Park, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the town, is an ideal spot to take a break.

On top of the ridge, spectacular views expand from the red-brick observation tower. The tower café offers delicious home-made doughnuts.

At the foot of the ridge, by Lake Pyhäjärvi, there are the Pyynikki Summer Theatre, an excellent swimming beach and hotel Scandic Rosendahl.

Pyynikki Ridge

Viikinsaari Island

Viikinsaari Island is a summer paradise for the whole family just 25 minutes away from the centre by boat. Hourly boats leave from Laukontori Quay on the hour.

The nature of the island is protected under the Nature Conservation Act, and there is a lovely nature path to walk.

Visitors can also enjoy Wanha Kaidesaari, a romantic old restaurant, a lakeside sauna, swimming beach, playgrounds, sports fields and barbecue areas.

For spiritual peace and calm, there is a tiny ecumenical chapel on the island.

Nature conservation areas in Tampere

Viikinsaari Island