Things To Do
in Nastola
Nastola is a tranquil rural area in southern Finland that merged with Lahti in 2016, yet it preserves a village-like charm with wood-framed houses and water on the doorstep. The landscape is a mosaic of lakes, forests, and open fields, inviting relaxed exploration and outdoor activities. Visitors can wander by lakes, discover local cultural spots, and savor the pace of Finnish countryside life.
In any season, Nastola serves as a gateway to Lahti’s amenities while maintaining a peaceful, small-town feel.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the quaint town of Nastola and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Finnish pastries. Take a morning stroll around the picturesque village, absorbing the serene atmosphere and charming wooden architecture.
Visit the Nastola Church, a beautiful wooden structure that offers insight into the local culture and history. Afterward, explore the nearby natural landscapes, taking a peaceful hike along the trails in the surrounding forests. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife.
As dusk falls, find a cozy restaurant and indulge in authentic Finnish cuisine. Try local specialties while enjoying the warm ambiance of the Finnish hospitality. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk, perhaps by a serene lake, soaking in the tranquil evening views.
On this day, immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounding Nastola. Kickstart your morning with a robust breakfast and pack your essentials for an adventure in the lush Finnish wilderness. Head into the nearby forests for a morning of hiking, where you'll witness the extraordinary flora and fauna unique to the region.
Engage in an outdoor activity such as canoeing or fishing in the pristine waters of local lakes. Take in the breathtaking scenery while relishing your packed lunch amidst nature. Capture photos of the stunning landscapes and enjoy some quiet time to reconnect with nature.
Return to Nastola to freshen up before dinner. Choose a local venue to enjoy a feast of grilled fish or other local dishes. Afterward, take a soothing evening walk along the lakeshore, cherishing the peaceful sounds of the wilderness at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel night | $75-130 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet countryside charm with lakes and forests
- Close to Lahti for services, culture, and transport
- Safe, clean environment and easy nature access
- Good value for money in accommodation and dining
- Limited nightlife within Nastola
- Winter driving can be challenging in snow/ice
- Rural public transport may be sparse on weekends
- Language barriers can affect some non-tourist spots
- "Hei" - Hello
- "Kiitos" - Thank you
- "Missä on…?" - Where is…?
- "Kuinka paljon tämä maksaa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Voisitko tuoda laskun?" - Could I have the bill?
- "Puhutko englantia?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Nastola
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque cluster of traditional wooden houses framed by birch trees and a quiet churchyard.
Expansive lake views at golden hour with sails and reflections on the water.
Long ridge lines and open skies along the Vesijärvi basin—great for wide-angle shots.
A row of preserved wooden homes ideal for architectural photography.
Food in Nastola
Nastola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy salmon soup with potatoes and dill, a staple in lakeside cafes.
Must-Try!
Thin rye crust pastries served with a garlic-egg butter spread.
Thick pea soup often served with ham or pork and rye bread.
Dense, chewy rye bread, commonly homemade and served with butter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An atmospheric indoor market in nearby Lahti offering fresh fish, berries, rye bread, and regional snacks.
Outdoor stalls with seasonal Finnish snacks and treats during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wash before using the sauna, sit on a towel, and follow local cues for gender separation in mixed settings.
Finns value punctuality; arriving on time is appreciated in both casual and formal settings.
Stay on marked trails, carry out trash, and ask permission before photographing people in private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Nastola
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory; rounding up or a small tip for good service is appreciated.
Card and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is increasingly rare but still accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Meltwater and budding greenery; variable weather, so bring layered clothing and waterproofs.
Mild to warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for lake swims, hiking, and outdoor dining.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; cooler temperatures and shorter days.
Snowy landscapes with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and saunas; dress warmly and be mindful of icy roads.
Nastola at Night
Hiking in Nastola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge trail with lake views along Vesijärvi.
Easy-to-moderate loop with pleasant lake viewpoints.
Forest and wetland trails with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Nastola by plane.
Finland's largest international airport; roughly 1.5–2 hours by car or train from Nastola/Lahti depending on connections.
A secondary hub in the Tampere region; accessible in about 2–3 hours by road or train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families and commuters live in Nastola and nearby Lahti.
Proximity to Lahti’s educational institutions draws students to the area.
A community that enjoys lakes, forests, and seasonal activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter activity with well-groomed trails across the region.
Common in Finnish towns with local clubs and arena facilities in Lahti.
Lakes such as Vesijärvi offer fishing, kayaking, and sailing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nastola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer meat-free soups and vegetarian pies; ask for mushroom or vegetable dishes, and pair with rye bread and butter for a filling option.