Matkalle

Matkalle is a Finnish term used to express going on a trip or traveling. It is closely related to the noun matka (journey) and uses the illative case ending -lle, which marks movement toward a destination. In everyday language it can appear as an exhortation, a headline, or a component of a sentence about travel.

Etymologically, Matkalle combines matka with the illative suffix -lle, producing a form that literally means “to travel toward a trip” or “onto a journey.” The word functions flexibly as a verb-like phrase and is common in both spoken and written Finnish.

In usage, Matkalle often appears as a short invitation or command, such as in travel slogans, posters, or social media prompts: Matkalle! or Lähde matkalle. It can also serve as a complement in sentences, for example, referring to moving toward travel plans or plans to explore new destinations. The expression embodies a cultural emphasis on exploration, leisure, and the experience of moving beyond one’s everyday surroundings.

In tourism and media, Matkalle is frequently employed as a call to action to encourage people to begin a journey or to explore new places. Because it is a generic phrase rather than a fixed proper name, it may also be used as a thematic title for travel guides, campaigns, or articles without implying a specific brand.

See also: matka, matkustaminen, matkailu.