Things To Do
in Muurame

Muurame sits on the shores of Lake Päijänne, just west of Jyväskylä, offering a calm blend of lakes, forest trails, and easy access to culture. The town is compact and walkable, with friendly locals and a pace that suits relaxed weekend trips. In winter the scenery is sculpted by snow, while summers bring warm evenings ideal for lake activities.

It's a great base for exploring Central Finland with everyday charm and outdoor appeal.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Muurame
morning
:

Arrive in Muurame and check into your charming accommodation, where you can unwind after your journey. Take a leisurely stroll around the quaint town center to familiarize yourself with local shops and cafés. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery, sampling traditional Finnish pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Muurame Church, renowned for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Spend the midday hours exploring the nearby Muurame golf course or taking a short hike in the surrounding countryside. Capture the beauty of the lush landscapes and make plans for outdoor adventures.

evening
:

Dinner at a local restaurant is a true delight; savor Finnish specialties that highlight fresh, local ingredients. After your meal, take a peaceful walk along the shores of Lake Muurame, soaking in the serene ambiance. End the evening with a warm drink at a cozy café, reflecting on your first day.

day 2
Exploring the Outdoors
morning
:

Start your day with an energizing breakfast before heading out to explore the breathtaking natural scenery of Muurame. Hike the picturesque trails of the surrounding hills, taking in panoramic views of the town and its lakes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and the lush flora along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake while surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. In the afternoon, participate in watersports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, immersing yourself in the invigorating waters of Lake Muurame. Take some time to relax and soak up the sun.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Join a guided evening canoe tour to experience the magical twilight on the lake, where you might spot beavers and owls. End the day with a bonfire by the lakeside, sharing stories under a starlit sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center)$700-1100
🚆Monthly public transport pass$60-95
Coffee in a cafe$3-5
🧺Groceries (weekly)$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Peaceful lakeside setting with easy access to nature
  • Safe, family-friendly environment
  • Close to Jyväskylä for cultural attractions and services
  • Scenic seasons for outdoor activities year-round
  • Limited nightlife and urban amenities within Muurame itself
  • Some services require a trip to Jyväskylä
  • Winter driving can be challenging for visitors not used to snow
  • "Hei" - Hello
  • "Kiitos" - Thank you
  • "Paljonko tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Missä on vessa?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Puhutteko englantia?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Muurame

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Päijänne shoreline from the Muurame promenade

Golden hour reflections over the lake with calm water and silhouettes of small boats.

Muurame Church hill viewpoint

Elevated position offering a view over the town and surrounding forested areas.

Forest edge along Muuramenjärvi trails

Lush greens in summer or frosted trees in winter, with winding paths and roadside viewpoints.

Culinary Guide

Food in Muurame

Finnish cuisine in Muurame highlights fresh regional ingredients—fish from the lakes, forest berries, mushrooms, rye bread, and seasonal produce. Expect simple, flavorful dishes that pair well with a local beer or coffee. Many eateries emphasize locally sourced ingredients, and you’ll find both traditional and modern takes on Finnish classics. If you have dietary restrictions, services in Jyväskylä and Muurame are increasingly accommodating.

Muurame Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies)

Traditional rye crust pastries often filled with rice or mashed potatoes and served with egg butter.

Must-Try!

Lohikeitto (Salmon soup)

Creamy salmon soup with dill and potatoes, a comforting staple in coastal and lake regions.

Ruisleipä (Rye bread)

Dense, deeply flavored rye bread commonly enjoyed with meals or cheeses.

Poronkäristys (Sautéed reindeer)

A classic Finnish dish featuring tender meat, typically served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local summer market (Muurame center)

Seasonal farmers’ market with berries, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks when in season.

Lakeside cafés and kiosks

Casual spots offering coffee, pastries, and light bites with views over the water.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Muurame is typical of Central Finland, with cold, snowy winters and mild to warm summers. Winter temperatures often dip well below freezing, while summer highs typically reach into the low to mid-20s Celsius (70s Fahrenheit). Rain occurs year-round, with wetter months in late summer and autumn. Pack layers to adapt to rapidly changing conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Quiet and personal space

Finns value personal space and quiet; keep voices moderate in public spaces, especially indoors.

Punctuality

Being on time is important for appointments, meetings, and events.

Shoes off at home

Many Finns remove outdoor shoes when entering someone's home.

Language and politeness

Start conversations with a friendly hello (terve) and please/thank you (kiitos). English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Finland is known for safety and low crime rates. Practice standard precautions for general travel: keep valuables secure, be mindful of weather- and road-related hazards in winter, and follow local guidelines for water safety around lakes and rivers.

Tipping in Muurame

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping etiquette

Tipping is not obligatory in Finland; rounding up or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not expected.

Payment methods

Cash is less common; credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted. Mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay are common in shops and cafes.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with abundant daylight; perfect for lake activities, hiking, and outdoor dining. Mosquitoes can be present near water, so bring repellent and light clothing.

Autumn

Golden forests and cool, comfortable temperatures. Ideal for scenic walks and harvest-time markets.

Winter

Snowy landscapes with cold temperatures; opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy indoor evenings. Prepare for icy roads and bundled layers.

Spring

Milder weather and melting snow; birds return, and trails start to dry out. Rain is common, so pack waterproof gear.

Nightlife Guide

Muurame at Night

Muurame offers a quiet, village-like nightlife with a few local pubs and cafes. For a broader scene, easy bus or car access to Jyväskylä provides a wider range of bars, live music, and clubs, especially in the evenings and on weekends.

Hiking in Muurame

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Muuramenjärvi Lakeshore Trail

Scenic lakeside trail suitable for easy to moderate hikers, with viewpoints across the water.

Kintulammi Nature Reserve Trails

Forest loops through diverse terrain with informative signs and potential wildlife viewing.

Harju Ridge Trails (near Jyväskylä area)

Ridge-top paths offering panoramic views of forests and lakes, suitable for day trips from Muurame.

Airports

How to reach Muurame by plane.

Jyväskylä Airport (JYV)

Regional airport serving limited domestic and charter flights; typically easiest to reach by car or taxi from Muurame.

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)

Finland's main international gateway; connect to Muurame via rail and road from Helsinki.

Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP)

Regional airport offering some international and domestic services; reachable via road or rail connections from Jyväskylä region.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with pleasant lakeside paths. For deeper exploration or access to more services, a short bus ride or drive to Jyväskylä is common. Overall, Muurame is very walkable for a relaxed, scenic visit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of families, retirees, and commuters; predominantly Finnish-speaking with a growing international presence in the wider Jyväskylä region.

Students

Many residents commute to nearby universities and colleges in Jyväskylä for studies and work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cross-country skiing

Popular in winter with prepared trails nearby.

Ice hockey

Common indoor activity and local pastime during colder months.

Rowing and water sports

Lake Päijänne provides opportunities for rowing, sailing, and kayaking in season.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and casual play in public fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Muurame relies on a well-maintained road network with frequent bus connections to Jyväskylä. Traffic is generally light to moderate, with occasional winter travel delays due to snow and ice. Biking is popular in good weather and the town supports cycling paths and practical routes to nearby lakes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Muurame.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for kasvis options; many places offer vegetarian mains, salads, and veggie pastas. In Jyväskylä vicinity, you’ll find dedicated vegetarian and vegan options in cafés and casual bistros.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local health centers provide primary care, with more specialized services and hospital care available in Jyväskylä. European Health Insurance Card holders and residents can access standard public healthcare; English-speaking staff are available at larger clinics and in Jyväskylä.

Discover Finland

Read more in our Finland 2025 Travel Guide.

Finland Travel Guide