FINNISH TRADITION OF WELL-BEING
Welcome to world’s sauna capital! Discover the warmth and tradition of saunas in Tampere, where this timeless practice continues to bring people together and promote a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
The oldest Finnish saunas date back 10,000 years to the post-Ice Age era. Saunas have been an essential part of Finnish culture for thousands of years, evolving from simple earth pits to modern Finnish saunas. Sauna is a significant part of Finnish life, with an estimated 99% of Finns regularly using them. Finnish sauna culture includes birch whisks (known as vasta or vihta) and traditional sauna sessions before festive days, such as the Christmas sauna.
Tampere has proudly held the title of Sauna Capital of the World since 2018. With the most public saunas in Finland, including the country’s oldest still-operating public sauna, Saunas are an integral part of life here, enhancing both well-being and community spirit. Throughout our history, sauna has been an essential place for us in sickness and in health. Back in the days it was even a place where people gave birth to their children.
In Finland, there are around three million saunas for a population of just 5.5 million. Nowhere is this more evident than in Tampere, nestled between two picturesque lakes and endless lush forests. With around 60 public saunas to choose from, Tampere offers a unique and abundant sauna experience.
It rains? Sauna. It snows? Sauna. Sun is shining? Sauna. Sad? Sauna will do it. You want to celebrate? Let’s go to sauna! What makes Finnish sauna culture truly special is how it is woven into everyday life. In Tampere, you’ll find saunas in restaurants, bars, on boats, in shopping centers, and even art galleries. Then of course almost everyone has access to a sauna in their home, summer cottage, office building, or gym. So wherever in Tampere you go, there will be sauna always nearby waiting for you to throw water on the sauna stove.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Tampere makes it easy to immerse yourself in authentic Finnish sauna culture. With saunas readily accessible across the city, everyone can enjoy the health benefits and relaxation they provide. This communal experience fosters a deep sense of connection and well-being.