Helsinki is emphasizing its ‘warm’ welcome to visitors with the first-ever airport runway sauna. That’s likely the only Finnish word you know – and no surprise! Finland’s version of a steam bath is a cornerstone of the country’s identity and lifestyle – one that’s spread around the world. Saunas are even credited as one important reason Finland regularly ranks as the happiest country in the world. 

Saunas (pronounced ‘sow-nah’) originated in Finland and have existed there for at least 2,000 years. Originally dug into pits or hillsides or built as wooden huts, early steam baths served as places for not just bathing, but also childbirth, healing, and even spiritual cleansing. Traditional Finnish sauna is distinguished from other nations’ ancient thermal / bathing traditions by dry heat, typically 70–100°C / 158–212°F, and ‘löyly’ — the wave of heat and steam created by tossing water on hot stones. 

This ritualistic practice is meant to purify both your body and mind, and it is known for soothing and relaxing tired muscles, relieving mental fatigue and stress.

The importance of saunas spans centuries, blending ancient customs with modern wellness trends. In 2020, UNESCO recognized Finnish sauna culture as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, affirming its role as a living tradition passed down through generations.

Today, saunas still hold a sacred space in Finnish life – solo or in groups. They’re where friends catch up, business deals are made, and families gather—often in quiet reflection. There’s a deep-rooted etiquette: sit in silence, respect others’ space, cleanse (shower) first, and take your time. Nudity is customary and seen as natural. After you sweat, if you dare, follow Finnish custom: cool off in a lake, roll in snow, or take a cold shower, invigorating your body and enhancing circulation.

With over 3 million saunas for less than 6 million Finns, saunas are embedded in everyday life, from city apartments to lakeside cottages, corporate offices, and even government buildings. And while many Finns still prefer the wood-heated sauna in a rustic lakeside setting, 21st century urban innovations have flourished:

• public design saunas like Löyly and Allas Sea Pool in Helsinki offer architectural elegance and eco-conscious features for residents and visitors alike;
• Finnish diplomacy: the Finnish Embassy in Washington, D.C., as well as other Finnish embassies worldwide, includes saunas; and
• The world’s first runway sauna, opened for one day in June, 2025 at Helsinki’s airport, to symbolize “a transition not just across borders, but straight into Finnish happiness.”

The move by the operator of many of Finland’s airports, was to emphasize how Finland – like sauna culture – welcomes everyone.

So no, you can’t duck out onto the runway for a sauna. But there are three other saunas right at the Helsinki Airport terminal for you to immerse yourself in Finnish culture – and do a wellness reset – on arrival in the country, or in a last farewell at the end of a trip to Finland. 
 

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Image: Finavia

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