Tampere Neighbourhoods, Locations and Districts

(Tampere, Pirkanmaa, Western Finland, Finland)



Aerial picture of the cityscapeThe scenery and districts around Tampere are extremely varied, ranging from a highly developed city centre filled with both historic and modern buildings, to the two neighbouring lakes of Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. Tampere has grown up around these two lakes and their connecting rapids, and today the lake districts have become tranquil and scenic beauty spots, and leading attractions in their own right.

Central Tampere is the liveliest neighbourhood and where most people choose to stay, shop and eat. On the eastern side, the district of Kaleva is known for its student accommodation and is of little interest to tourists, with many preferring to visit the nearby Kauppi district and its extensive woodlands of Kaupin Urheilupuisto.


For history lovers, the southerly Hatanpää area if often appealing and contains not only a wealth of old buildings, but a number of museums, such as the Museum of Dolls and Costumes (Nukke-ja Pukumuseo Hatanpään Kartano) on the Hatanpään Puistokuja. Close by and still to the south, the Hervanta district is home to the prestigious Tampere University of Technology (Tampereen Teknillinen Korkeakoulu), which boasts almost 10,000 students. The following locations around Tampere are amongst the most tourist friendly.

View of the city Centre

City Centre

Central Tampere is the true heart of the city and filled with interesting sights for visiting tourists. Many people head to the city centre for its shopping alone and the beautiful cobblestone street of Hämeenkatu contains a huge selection of shops, along with the nearby Koskikeskus shopping centre on the Hatanpään Valtatie. The Central Square (Keskustori) dominates this district and provides not only a useful place to meet people in Tampere, but also features regular markets, summer concerts and historic buildings, such as the Old Church, which was built almost 200 years ago. Many of the surrounding streets are also traffic-free, particularly those leading to the market square at Laukontori.

Pispala District

Tampere's Pispala district is brimming with character and hilly areas, which have become filled with small, rustic cottages over the years. The main charm of Pispala is the picture-postcard views, which stretch into the distance across both of the nearby lakes. A number of gift shops and eateries are on hand as you stroll around.

Photo showing the Pyynikin Harju area

Pyynikin Harju

The Pyynikin Harju ridge lies on the western side of Tampere and this rugged area is perfect for lovers of the great outdoors. Many parts of the steps leading to the ridge itself are extremely steep, so only attempt this climb if you are feeling full of energy. The Pyynikin ridge also lends itself to many recreational activities, such as jogging, hiking and even skiing during the snowy winter months, while others come here to simply enjoy the wildlife, scenery and views from the observation tower.

Image of Lake Nasijarvi

Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi

Close to central Tampere, the two lakes of Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi have long been of great importance to the city. Linked by fast rapids known as Tammerkoski, these lakes offer endless appeal, especially during the summers. Tourists flock to Lake Pyhäjärvi to enjoy boat trips to nearby Viikinsaari Island, or to simply picnic by the waterfront. Cruising and sailing is also available on Lake Näsijärvi and this is always a popular pastime.