Kemi travel guide

Photo of Valtakatu street in Kemi in Finland by Kallerna
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Introduction to Kemi

Kemi Church have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Kemi, Finland. Kemi has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This city in the region of Lapland in Finland is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 21.3 thousand people, the city of Kemi is truly one of the main highlights of Finland.

Easily accessible from Kemi-Tornio airport, Kemi is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Finland any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Kemi as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Kemi is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Kemi below!

History of Kemi

Located in the heart of Lapland, Kemi is a vibrant city with a rich history. The city, founded in 1869, originally prospered due to the logging industry, as the Kemi River provided an efficient means of transporting logs.

In the early 20th century, Kemi underwent significant industrialization. The establishment of the Kemi Oy pulp mill in 1893 and the Outokumpu copper refinery in 1934 contributed substantially to the city's development.

During the Second World War, Kemi played a crucial role as a base for the German's Lapland War operations, with the city suffering significant destruction. Post-war, Kemi experienced a period of rapid reconstruction and growth.

Today, Kemi is renowned for its unique attractions such as the Sampo Icebreaker and the SnowCastle, which reflect Kemi's enduring relationship with its icy surroundings. The city's rich history and unique northern allure make it a must-visit destination for travelers.

Top services in Kemi

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Kemi, Finland. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 190 airlines that fly to Finland. Compare the rates and services of the 4 types of places to stay in Kemi and the 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Kemi.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Kemi, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Kemi on your vacation in Finland.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Kemi from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Kemi!

Best time to visit Kemi

The best time to explore Kemi, Finland largely depends on the activities you wish to indulge in. Winter visitors, from December to April, can enjoy the magical SnowCastle, featuring a snow hotel, restaurant, and chapel, rebuilt annually. The city is also a gateway to the Lapland region, making it a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. However, winter temperatures may drop below freezing, so pack warmly. For those who prefer milder weather, summer, from June to August, offers long daylight hours and milder temperatures, ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the Kemi archipelago. The city is less crowded during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy the changing landscapes. Remember, Kemi's attractions vary greatly with the seasons, so the best time to visit Kemi really depends on your personal preferences and the unique Arctic experiences you seek.

Weather in Kemi

Kemi, located in northern Finland, experiences a subarctic climate characterized by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. Snow season typically begins in October and can last until mid-April, making Kemi a winter wonderland for the majority of the year. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, averaging -10°C to -15°C, but can plummet to as low as -30°C at times.

Summers, on the other hand, are brief and mild, usually occurring from June to August. During this period, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C. The city also experiences the Midnight Sun phenomenon, when the sun does not set for a couple of months.

Travelers should pack accordingly, taking into account the extreme cold during winter and relatively mild summer temperatures. It is also important to note that Kemi can be quite windy throughout the year, which can significantly reduce the perceived temperature. In winter, it's advised to dress in layers and wear windproof clothing.

Local tip for visiting Kemi

When visiting Kemi, a small city in the Lapland region of Finland, an insider tip is to experience the midnight sun phenomenon during the summer months. This is a natural occurrence where the sun never fully sets, creating 24 hours of daylight. It's a unique and surreal experience that is not commonly found in many parts of the world. While most tourists flock to Kemi in winter for the SnowCastle and icebreaker cruises, locals recommend visiting in summer for the midnight sun. During this time, you can also enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and biking under the constant daylight. Remember to adjust your sleep schedule accordingly and invest in some quality blackout curtains or an eye mask, as the endless daylight can be disorienting.

What to see in Kemi

Kemi has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Kemi.

Top attractions in Kemi

Home to plenty of top attractions, Kemi is more than just a wonderful city in Finland. Kemi is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Finland.

Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Kemi.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Finland, check out our list of top attractions in Kemi below. Discover the best places to visit in Kemi, including the fascinating Kemi Church.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Kemi.

Things to do in Kemi

Enrich your travel experience in Kemi by joining tours and activities. Kemi offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Kemi below.

Search for things to do in Kemi

Discover the best things to do in Kemi.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Kemi. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Kemi

Kemi, a picturesque city on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, offers a culinary experience that embodies the rich Finnish heritage and culture. The city is renowned for its seafood, particularly the fresh salmon and the signature 'Kalakukko,' a traditional Finnish dish of fish baked inside a bread loaf. For the finest seafood, head to the restaurant Merihovi or the Kemi SnowCastle, both of which are some of the best places to eat in Kemi. The city is also famous for its reindeer dishes, which can be sampled at the local street food stalls. For a high-end culinary experience, Restaurant Wanha Kerho, set in a historic building, serves a delectable variety of local delicacies. Don't miss out on tasting 'Leipäjuusto,' a Finnish squeaky cheese, perfectly paired with cloudberries. Lastly, for those who have a sweet tooth, a visit to a local bakery to relish 'Pullas,' Finnish sweet buns, is a must. From street food to exquisite dining, Kemi promises a delightful culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.

Best Shopping in Kemi

Kemi, a charming city in Northern Finland, offers a unique shopping experience, blending local craftsmanship with modern fashion. The Kemi City Centre is the best place to go shopping in Kemi, boasting a diverse range of shops, including boutiques, bookshops, and department stores. Walking through its vibrant streets, you'll find an array of locally made products, including handmade jewellery, ceramics, and textiles. These items make perfect souvenirs, reflecting the city's distinct fashion and craftsmanship. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kemi Market Hall, where you can explore local produce and delicacies. The hall also holds occasional flea markets, offering a selection of vintage items and antiques. For a more contemporary shopping experience, head to the IsoKristiina Shopping Centre, which hosts several fashion and lifestyle stores. Always remember that most shops in Kemi close early and are closed on Sundays, so plan your shopping trip accordingly. With Kemi's unique blend of local and modern shopping offerings, you're sure to find something to remember your trip by.

Best Free Things to Do in Kemi

Discover the magic of Finland with these best free things to do in Kemi. Start your journey at the picturesque Kemi City Hall, a stunning architectural landmark. Marvel at its distinctive neoclassical style and immerse yourself in local political history. From there, take a leisurely stroll to the Kemi Church, a neo-Gothic masterpiece which offers serene moments of reflection. Nearby, the Kemi Art Museum hosts rotating exhibitions of local and international art, providing a cultural feast for your senses. For a breath of fresh air, explore the Kemi Inner Harbour where locals love to spend their leisure time. You can watch the boats go by or simply relish the peaceful atmosphere. Lastly, make time to wander around the Mansikkanokka Park, a beautiful green space perfect for picnicking, bird watching, or just relaxing. Each of these destinations encapsulates Kemi's unique charm and vibrant culture, providing a rich and fulfilling experience without spending a dime.

Vacation packages in Kemi

The best and easiest way to visit Kemi is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Finland.

Booking a vacation package to Kemi means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Kemi to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Kemi is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Kemi, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Kemi.

Find vacation packages in Kemi

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Kemi.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Kemi get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Finland. Your customized holiday package to Kemi is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Kemi

To get to the city of Kemi the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Finland can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Kemi by booking flights with any of the 1 airline that offer direct flights to Kemi-Tornio airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Kemi-Tornio airport are Ryanair, Finnair, Ethiopian Airlines, Pegasus, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Kemi.

To reach the city of Kemi, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Kemi-Tornio airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Kemi, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Kemi-Tornio airport and Kemi below.

Find cheap flights to Kemi

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Kemi, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Finland. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Kemi, Finland, in January.

The cheapest one-way flight to Kemi costs around 88 EUR and is offered by the airline Finnair.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Kemi cost approximately 376 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 14 and the return flight is scheduled on May 18. The flight time is around 20 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Tampere–Pirkkala.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Finland and the city of Kemi from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Kemi

Travelers visiting Kemi in Finland can fly to Kemi-Tornio airport directly from 606 destinations worldwide.

The airline that operates most flights to Finland is Lanmei Airlines. Lanmei Airlines offers 4 scheduled flight routes to Finland.

Discover the most popular flights to Kemi below. Click to view flights to Kemi, Finland from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Kemi

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Kemi is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Kemi usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Kemi offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Kemi and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Kemi planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Kemi, you'll find 4 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Finland can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Kemi. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Kemi.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Kemi in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Kemi

A trip to the fascinating Kemi, Finland, means opportunities to relax at any of the 4 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 17 hotels, 10 vacation rental apartments, 2 cottages and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Kemi provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Hotelli Toivola is one of the top picks of travelers in Kemi.

The hotel is located at Kiveliönkatu 1 and boasts many great utilities, including Garden, Restaurant, and Sauna.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Kemi. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Kemi, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Hostel Villa Kemi. For approximately 71 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 4 different types of places to stay in Kemi. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Kemi

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Kemi for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 30 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Kemi provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Kemi are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Kemi.

If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Merihovi, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Kemi, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotelli Toivola, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Kemi. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Kemi

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Kemi on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Kemi that match the information provided.

Car rental in Kemi

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Kemi. Kemi has 3 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Kemi start from 44.7 EUR per day or 312.87 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Volkswagen Polo 1.0 Auto.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Kemi, starting from 39.86 EUR per day or 279.05 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Volkswagen Up 1.0.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Kemi, Finland, below.

Search for car rental in Kemi

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Kemi. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Kemi, Finland, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Kemi

The city of Kemi is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Finland. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Finland has it all.

Finland is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Finland that are as magical as the city of Kemi. The most popular travel destinations in Finland are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Finland

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Finland. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Kemi

Kemi, situated in the north of Finland, offers a range of transportation options for tourists and locals alike. The city is served by the Kemi-Tornio Airport, with regular flights connecting to Helsinki and other parts of the country.

The city's public transportation is reliable and efficient, primarily operated by buses. The Kemi City Bus network covers the entire city, making it easy to navigate and explore. Long-distance bus services also connect Kemi to other Finnish cities.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or pre-booked. They provide a convenient but slightly more expensive mode of transport.

If you prefer to drive, numerous car rental companies are available at the airport and around the city. They offer a wide range of vehicles to suit different requirements and budgets.

Lastly, for a unique local experience, try taking the icebreaker Sampo cruise, which operates during the winter months from the Kemi city centre. This unique transportation experience is a must-try when in Kemi.

Learn more about Finland

There are many reasons to visit the city of Kemi, but a trip to Finland needs no explanation.

Exploring Finland, which spans 338,424 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Finland offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Finland.

Domestic flights from Kemi

A taste of Finland through a visit to Kemi can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Kemi to another remarkable destination in Finland.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Kemi to other spectacular locations in Finland, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Kemi

Travelers in Finland can catch flights to domestic airports in Helsinki, and Kokkola. Domestic flights in Finland are operated by 1 airline: Finnair. There are around 2 scheduled flight routes operating to Kemi on a weekly basis.

From Kemi, travelers can book scheduled flights to 2 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Kemi

Traveling to another city or region in Finland? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Kemi to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Finland on the selected dates.

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