Pispala: hills, houses and silence over the lakes

#hellohalloween In Tampere, between two lakes—Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi—lies the hilly Pispala neighborhood. Once home to workers, then artists and poets, it is now one of the most beautiful and atmospheric areas of Finland. Wooden houses stand on the slopes, their roofs almost touching. Narrow streets wind upward, offering views of the water and endless pine trees. The air smells of sauna smoke and fresh bread from small bakeries. 📍 Location: Tampere, Finland. The area between lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. 🕐 When to go: Any time of year—in winter, the hills are covered in snow, in summer, everything is immersed in greenery. ⸻ How to get there (current as of 2025) 🚆 From Tampere city center: Pispala is just 3 km from the train station. You can take bus numbers 10 or 25, the journey time is 10 minutes. Walking distance: about 40 minutes through the picturesque Amuri district. 🚗 By car: Parking is limited, so it's best to leave your car below and walk. ⸻ What to see: — Pispalanharju — a ridge with a view of both lakes at once. — Rajaportin sauna — the oldest operating public sauna in Finland (since 1906). — Small cafes and galleries in old wooden houses. — Narrow stairs that lead directly to the water.