Nasinneula Observation Tower
Pirkanmaa
Näsinneula Observation Tower, located in Tampere, Finland, is the tallest free-standing structure in Finland and the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries, standing at 168 meters. Built between 1970 and 1971 and designed by Pekka Ilveskoski, the tower overlooks Lake Näsijärvi and is a prominent symbol of Tampere. It is part of the Särkänniemi amusement park and features a revolving restaurant at 124 meters that completes a full rotation every 45 minutes, providing stunning panoramic views. Visitors can access the observation deck and the Neula Sky Cafe at 120 meters via high-speed elevators that are among the fastest public elevators in Finland. The tower's design was inspired by the Space Needle in Seattle, with the revolving restaurant concept influenced by the Puijo Tower in Kuopio. The tower also serves as a radio transmission site for several local stations. Its weather beacon lights communicate upcoming weather forecasts to the city. Näsinneula is a beloved landmark offering visitors a unique combination of architectural innovation, cultural significance, and breathtaking vistas of the cityscape, forests, and lakes surrounding Tampere.
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Tip: The best time to visit Näsinneula is during clear weather to fully enjoy the panoramic views of Tampere and Lake Näsijärvi. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but checking for any available discounts or combined tickets with Särkänniemi amusement park may be beneficial. The tower's elevators offer a quick ascent, and visitors can dine in the revolving restaurant or relax at the Neula Sky Cafe. Evening visits provide a spectacular cityscape illuminated at night. Reservations for the restaurant are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Interesting facts
- •Näsinneula is the tallest free-standing structure in Finland and the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries.
- •The revolving restaurant at 124 meters completes a full rotation every 45 minutes.
- •The tower's elevators are among the fastest public elevators in Finland, reaching speeds of 6 m/s.
- •Näsinneula features weather beacon lights that display upcoming weather forecasts to the city.
- •The tower's concrete structure was built using a continuous slipform method completed in just 33 days.
- •Näsinneula was chosen as the Concrete Structure of the Year in Finland in 1970.
History
The idea for Näsinneula originated in the late 1960s, inspired by the Space Needle in Seattle and Puijo Tower in Kuopio.
Construction took place from 1970 to 1971, with the tower officially opening in 1971.
It held the title of Finland's tallest building for over 50 years and became the tallest observation tower in the Nordic countries after Stockholm's Kaknäs Tower closed to the public in 2018.
The tower's elevators were originally manufactured by Valmet-Schliren and have undergone modernization, including a recent upgrade to Kone elevators in 2020.
Over the decades, Näsinneula has become an iconic symbol of Tampere and a central part of the Särkänniemi amusement park.
Place Guide
Observation Deck and Neula Sky Cafe
Located at 120 meters, the observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tampere, Lake Näsijärvi, and surrounding forests. The Neula Sky Cafe provides a stylish lounge experience with refreshments while enjoying the scenery.
Revolving Restaurant Näsinneula1971
Situated at 124 meters, this revolving restaurant completes one full rotation every 45 minutes, allowing diners to enjoy 360-degree views of the city and lakes while savoring Finnish cuisine. The restaurant offers both set menus and à la carte options.
Contact
Phone: 020 7130200
