Discover the Best of Finnish Design and Shopping in Tampere:

A Guide to the City's best Souvenirs and Artisanal Goods

Finnish design is known for its clean lines, minimalism, and functional yet beautiful design. Tampere is no exception, with a wealth of shops and boutiques offering a diverse range of Finnish-made goods, from traditional textiles and ceramics to contemporary clothing and home decor. Whether you're looking for a oneof-a-kind souvenir or a statement piece for your wardrobe, Tampere has something to offer every shopper. In this guide, we'll take you through the best places to shop for Finnish design in Tampere, as well as some of the city's gems for artisanal goods and unique finds.

Finnish design has a reputation around the world for its simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. The aesthetic has been shaped by the country's natural surroundings, as well as its cultural heritage, resulting in a style that is both timeless and contemporary. DesignOnTampere’s executive director Taru Heinänen describes Finnish design as timeless indeed: – Finnish design is defined by the goal of making products that are of high quality and stand the test of time both practically and visually. Finnish products often use high quality materials, and are created with careful craftsmanship. Lately we’re also seeing more personal and experimental forms of art and design, Heinänen says.

Locally crafted design

In Tampere, visitors can experience Finnish design up close and explore some of the city's best places to shop. For local design, head to DesignOnTampere Shop on the fourth floor of department store Sokos. This shopin-shop features products such as jewelry, ceramics and clothing crafted by locals. On a street called Aleksis Kiven katu right off the main street Hämeenkatu, there are several brand stores that have their roots in Tampere. Look for Pispala Clothing , Palmroth , Riiminka and Pura Finland Uhana , located on Verkatehtaankatu, is also worth a visit.

Taito Shop , located across the street from Koskikeskus shopping center, has a good selection of both Tampere and Finland themed products.

– Taito Shop in particular features a selection of souvenirs that are popular among tourists. They report magnets, t-shirts, canvas bags, Tampere underwear, kitchen towels, socks, coasters and trays to be their best selling items. In general, Taito Shop features a range of products made from wood, which is also very appealing to especially foreign tourists, Heinänen describes.

One of a kind souvenirs

For unique vintage finds, check out Oldie, Helga-neiti, Relove on the third floor of Stockmann or Vintage

Garden . The Kehräsaari area, located by the Tammerkoski rapids, on the other hand is home to several small shops, including Käsityökortteli, which sells items handcrafted in Finland. The Kehräsaari area is a sight to see in itself, as it is a beautifully repurposed old industrial area characterized by red brick buildings. The Finlayson area is another great place to check out, if you’re looking for a historic atmosphere.

So, where to start? Heinänen would suggest that you head to DesignOnTampere Shop on the fourth floor of Sokos. Her recommendation for a souvenir from Finland would be a Humbugi bag. Humbugi bags are made from industrial surplus leather, and their design is true to their Finnish heritage - minimalist and timelessly classic.

– There’s also a great selection of smaller items such as jewelry, if you’d like to opt for a smaller souvenir, Heinänen mentions.

Check out DesignOnTampere’s DOT-map on their website for a map view of the best places to check out in Tampere. Printed copies of the map are also available at the railway station and select hotels.

Authentic bites

When it comes to shopping in Tampere, visitors should also check out the city's markets. The Tammelantori market square, located in the heart of Tampere, features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and other local goods. The Tampere Market Hall, Kauppahalli, is a great place to sample local foods, including traditional Finnish dishes like reindeer meat and smoked salmon. Tallipiha, located a few minutes by foot from Kauppahalli, is like a small village of quaint boutiques and cozy places to grab a coffee or some food. It’s also the home of a chocolate shop loved by locals – Tallipihan Suklaapuoti.

Overall, Tampere is a great destination for design lovers and anyone looking to bring home a piece of Finnish design. From timeless design items to contemporary fashion, the city offers a wealth of shopping opportunities that showcase the best of Finnish design.