Finland vs. Sweden: A French Student’s Perspective

Vol,28, Issue 03, 26 September 2025 

As a French student experiencing Finland for the first time, I cannot help but compare it with Sweden, a country I only briefly visited through its capital, Stockholm. From this limited perspective, the contrasts are striking.

Stockholm left me with the impression of a vibrant, cosmopolitan city where history and modernity blend effortlessly. The colorful architecture, bustling cafés, and waterways buzzing with ferries gave the city a certain elegance and energy. Swedes seemed approachable, stylish, and outwardly social, very much aligned with the Scandinavian image of openness.

Helsinki, in contrast, feels entirely different. While equally modern, it is quieter, more minimalistic, and deeply tied to nature. Even in the capital, forests, islands, and the sea are part of daily life. The rhythm is slower, more grounded, and people value personal space. At first, this reserve can feel unusual for someone from France, but once you connect with Finns, their warmth and sincerity shine through. Silence here is not awkward, but a form of respect.

The difference between Stockholm and Helsinki is perhaps the most striking aspect of my Nordic journey. Stockholm dazzles with its sophistication and outward energy, while Helsinki captivates with its understated depth and authenticity. Experiencing both in such a short time showed me how neighboring capitals, often grouped under the same “Nordic” label, can embody such distinct cultural identities.

For me, who had never set foot in the Nordic countries before, this discovery is a true richness. To witness two nations so geographically close yet so different has broadened my perspective, reminding me that cultural diversity exists even where we least expect it. It is precisely this contrast that makes my experience here so valuable.