5 Things First-Timers Ask About Finnish Summer Cottages

I’ve spent over 30 summers at a Finnish summer cottage and I’m still not bored with it.

You might be thinking: “After all that time, doesn’t it get old?” But here’s the truth: summer cottages in Finland aren’t about doing exciting things. They’re the places where most Finns truly come alive, feel the happiest, and enjoy life the most.

There’s something magical about waking up to the sound of birds, stepping outside to swim in a lake before breakfast, and spending the evening in a lakeside sauna. It’s hard to explain until you experience it yourself.

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Every time I post an Instagram story showing me heading to our cottage again, I get questions from curious travelers. “What even is a Finnish cottage?” “What do you do there all day?” “Can I rent one?”

I love talking about this topic and honestly, I could go on forever. Finnish cottage culture is such a big part of who we are as a nation, and it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Finland beyond the usual tourist spots.

So here are the five questions I hear most often, answered by someone who’s lived it.

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What is a Finnish summer cottage?

A Finnish summer cottage (mökki in Finnish) is a summer house where most locals escape to during the warmer months. Think of it as a peaceful retreat from everyday life.

These cottages are typically located outside busy cities, surrounded by forests, nestled by a lake, or tucked along the coastline. The whole point is to be close to nature, away from noise, and completely unplugged.

Some cottages are simple and rustic (no running water, outdoor toilet, wood-heated sauna), while others are more modern with full amenities. But no matter the style, the feeling is the same: peace, quiet, and nature all around you.

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What do you actually do at the summer cottage?

Honestly? Not much. And that’s the whole point.

I know that might sound boring, but cottage life isn’t about packed itineraries or sightseeing. It’s about slowing down, something Finns take very seriously after long, dark winters.

Here’s what a typical cottage day looks like:

• Swimming in the lake or sea (multiple times a day, obviously)
• Heating up the sauna and spending the evening there
• Reading a good book in a hammock
• Going on a slow rowing trip with no destination
• Fishing or just watching the water
• Grilling food outside and eating with no rush
• Napping under a tree because you can

It’s simple living at its finest. And after a few days of this, you start to understand why Finns are ranked among the happiest people in the world.

Where can I rent a summer cottage in Finland as a traveler?

This is probably the most common question I get and the good news is, it’s easier than you think!

Here are the best platforms for renting a Finnish summer cottage:

• Lomarengas. One of the biggest cottage rental sites in Finland with hundreds of options across the country
• Nettimökki. A popular Finnish platform with both budget-friendly and luxurious cottages
• Airbnb. Search “mökki” or “Finnish cottage” + your preferred region
• Booking.com. Filter for cabins, cottages, and chalets in Finland

🚗 Getting to your Finnish summer cottage: Most traditional Finnish cottages are located outside towns and are easiest to reach by car. If you’re flying into Finland, I recommend picking up a rental car at Helsinki Airport before continuing your journey. → Compare rental cars at Helsinki Airport.

Here a few tips for choosing:

• Book early for peak summer, (June–August) popular lakeside cottages go fast
• Check if sauna is included (most have one, but confirm!)
• Read reviews about access, some cottages require a boat to reach

Is it really true that all Finns have summer cottages?

Not quite, but it’s close!

Finland has over 500,000 summer cottages for a population of about 5.5 million people. That’s roughly one cottage for every 10 people, making it one of the highest cottage-per-capita rates in the world.

Even if a Finnish family doesn’t own a cottage, they likely have access to one, through relatives, friends, or rentals. Cottage culture is so deeply rooted here that summer without mökki just doesn’t feel complete.

So while not every Finn has a cottage, most Finns have cottage memories. It’s part of growing up here.

Is it weird to visit a Finnish cottage alone or as a solo traveler?

Not at all! Finland is one of the safest countries in the world for solo travelers, and cottages are no exception.

That said, here are a few things I’d keep in mind if you’re staying alone, especially for your first time:

☀️ Ready to experience Finnish Cottage life? If this made you curious about trying a Finnish cottage for yourself, I put together a free guide to help you plan it.

Can you visit a Finnish summer cottage in winter?

Yes and it’s a completely different (but equally magical) experience!

Winter cottage trips are all about:

❄️ Snow-covered landscapes and frozen lakes
🧖 Hot sauna sessions followed by ice swimming or rolling in the snow
🔥 Cozy evenings by the fireplace
🌌 Northern Lights viewing (if you’re in Lapland or northern Finland)
🎿 Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing right from the doorstep

Just make sure the cottage you book is equipped for winter stays, not all summer cottages are heated or accessible year-round. Look for listings that specifically mention “winter rental” or “year-round.”

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Final thoughts:

A Finnish summer cottage is so much more than just a place to stay, it’s one of the best ways to experience everyday life in Finland.

I hope these answers have given you a better idea of what to expect and inspired you to add cottage life to your Finland itinerary.

Keep planning your Finland trip:

• One of the most unique summer stays in Finland
• This is why you need to add a Finnish summer cottage to your Finland itinerary