The Finnish city of Tampere has been chosen as European Capital of Smart Tourism 2026. The award recognises the city's work with sustainable and inclusive tourism, as well as its combination of urban life, nature, and local experiences.

Tampere is highlighted as a destination where visitors can easily combine culture, relaxation, and nature experiences – with lakes, forests, and outdoor areas just minutes from the city centre.

The sauna capital of the world

Tampere promotes itself as the sauna capital of the world and officially received the title in 2018. The region has over 70 public saunas, more than any other city in Finland.

Among the most famous is Rajaportti, Finland's oldest still-functioning public sauna, dating from 1906. Visitors can also experience modern sauna concepts such as Sauna Restaurant Kuuma, where Nordic gastronomy is combined with traditional sauna culture, as well as more unique options like smoke saunas and sauna rituals in yurt environments.

Nature and sustainability in focus

The city is simultaneously investing heavily in sustainable development and aims to become carbon-neutral by 2030. Through the initiative Think Sustainably Local businesses in the hotel, restaurant, and tourism sectors are encouraged to work in a more climate-friendly way.

To reduce the risk of greenwashing, the city will now also tighten the requirements for sustainability labels and certifications for companies that want to highlight their sustainability efforts.

Tampere also offers good access to nature tourism. With public transport and special shuttle solutions, visitors can easily reach national parks and hiking areas around the city.

Home to the world's only Moomin Museum

Another of the city's major tourist attractions is the world's only Moomin Museum. The museum displays original illustrations, paintings, and three-dimensional works by Tove Jansson, offering visitors an insight into both Moominvalley and Finnish cultural history.