Travel Information
Getting around
Once you’ve arrived, take your time. You can get around by train, bus, car, steamship, cruise ship, bicycle, skis or sleigh. Relax and enjoy it.
By AIR
Finland has one of the densest and least expensive airline networks in Europe, with airports throughout the country, including in the far north. For domestic flights there are several kinds of discount tickets. For further information, please contact your travel agent. All scheduled flights to/from Helsinki are available from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport Travel Planner service.
By train
Finnish trains are spacious, comfortable and clean. The scenery along the lines is beautiful, especially in Eastern Finland where there are many lakes. You can either travel by car carrier or by passenger train. You can also choose whether you would like to travel through the night or during the day. Check VR – Tickets and timetables.
By coach
The Finnish coach route network is one of the most comprehensive in Europe covering more than 90% of the public roads.
By car
The Finns drive on the right and overtake on the left. Driving in Finland is a relatively stress-free and enjoyable experience but can be hazardous in the winter.
Snow tyres are legally required from December to February, and engine heaters are strongly recommended. Headlights must be used at all times.
Motorists in Finland should remain alert for elk and reindeer which frequently wander onto roads and are most active at dusk.
Please note that not all self-service petrol pumps accept foreign credit cards.
By boat
Almost all of Finland’s coastal towns run boat services, as well as organized sightseeing and charter cruises. There is also a wide choice of charter and local cruises for holidaymakers, as well as scheduled services in the Åland Islands and on the archipelago.
Lakeland sightseeing cruises range from short expeditions lasting a couple of hours to leisurely tours with cabin accommodation that last several days. The vessels range from old-fashioned lake steamers to open-top motor cruisers ideal for sightseeing.
FAQ
Where can I see the Northern Lights?
The best place to see the Northern Lights in Finland is in the northern Lapland Region, which is almost entirely located within the realm of the Arctic Circle. During the dark winter months here, when the sun rarely peaks its head over the horizon, you can expect to see the Finland Northern Lights with regularity, and other peak seasons include February through March and September through October.
When is the best time to visit?
Depends on what you would like to experience while in Finland. For plenty of pure white snow, visit between December and March. For long summer days and relaxing by the thousands of lakes, opt for June- August.
What currency does Finland have?
Finland joined EURO in 2001.
How cold does it get in the Winter?
During the winter months, temperatures can drop as low as -35-40c This is not the norm however and more common winter temperatures range from 0 to minus 25 depending on the region and time of year.
I don’t speak any Finnish, will I manage?
Most Finns speak excellent English and even in more remote areas you are likely to find a person able to help you in English. You should not have any difficulties when it comes to language.
What documents do I need to enter Finland?
You need a valid national passport or other equivalent official document that satisfactorily establishes your identity and nationality. If you aren’t a citizen of Finland or a European Economic Area (EEA) country, you may also need a visa. Please check with your local Finnish Embassy.
What to do in case of an emergency?
To contact the emergency services in any EU country from any phone, fixed or mobile, dial 112, free of charge. Information about round-the-clock healthcare available in Helsinki, call tel. +358 (0)9 10 023.
