There are many places to visit and lots of things to see in Tampere, but the City of Tampere Cultural Affairs recommends visitors try out the following: Haihara Art Centre, Viikinsaari Island and park concerts.
Haihara Art Centre
The art centre, located at the Haihara Estate, is a great place to visit, not just for its traditional atmosphere, but also for the many sights and events it has to offer during the summer. There is a puppet theatre that has a production of Grimm’s Sleeping Beauty (in Finnish) and there are several art exhibitions and free concerts. A lovely summer café is located in the former farmworkers’ quarters and Runeberg’s cottage has an arts and crafts shop for those interested in buying original handcrafted artwork. Several art courses are organised at the estate. In addition, in July there is the Ye Olde Haihara antique and old-fashioned market event. Pick what interests you and come and see for yourself!
Viikinsaari Island
Viikinsaari is a small island in lake Pyhäjärvi. The island is owned by the City of Tampere and it only takes a 20-minute boat trip to get there. The boats leave from Laukontori harbour in the city centre every hour during the summer months. The western part of the island is a lovely nature reserve and on the eastern side you can find beaches, gaming fields, a chapel, a restaurant etc. It is a great place to have a picnic and enjoy a warm summer’s day. There are also a number of events held over the island. A more detailed schedule is available on the web (see link below).
Park Concerts
The City of Tampere Cultural Affairs organises 150 park concerts between May and August. These free events include singing, dancing, playing and other kinds of performing arts in various locations all over Tampere. For a list of times and places please check the Cultural Affairs' website.
