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Northern Europe

FinlandTravel guide

Explore Finland visa rulesCommon scams in Finland

Finland has vast forests, 188,000 lakes and many islands, alongside small towns and cities. Helsinki is the capital, and the far north offers the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun.

Why go

  1. Explore Helsinki and its famous Lutheran Cathedral.

  2. Visit the historic city of Turku and the islands of the Archipelago Sea.

  3. See wooden houses in Porvoo and castles in Savonlinna and Hämeenlinna.

  4. Enjoy lakeside cottages, sauna, swimming and boating.

  5. Head north for the Northern Lights, winter sports or the Midnight Sun.

Best time to go: Summer is generally the best time, with daytime temperatures around 15–25°C; July is the warmest month. September is popular in Lapland for autumn colours and fewer mosquitoes, while March–April suits skiing in the north.

Getting there

By air

  • Helsinki-Vantaa is Finland's main international airport. It has connections from major European airports and several cities in Asia and North America.
  • Flights to other Finnish airports are more limited. Changing at Helsinki to a domestic flight or train is a common option.
  • Lapland has seasonal scheduled flights from December to March and direct charter flights, especially in December.

By land

  • The source reports that all roads from Russia are closed until further notice, with this notice updated on 10 March 2026. Trains and buses from Russia are also suspended.
  • The active international rail connection runs from Haparanda in Sweden, across from Tornio, to Oulu. Travelling from Stockholm to Helsinki by train takes a full day and at least three changes.
  • Buses run from northern Sweden and Norway into Finland. Some Norwegian routes run only in summer or during other seasons.

By sea

  • Ferries connect Finland with Estonia, Sweden and Germany. The crossing from Estonia is shorter than the crossing from Sweden.
  • Large cruise ferries from Estonia and Sweden have restaurants, shops and entertainment. Ferries from Travemünde in Germany take two nights or two days.

Customs

  • Goods brought for personal use, including ordinary gifts, from other European Union countries are mostly free of import duty.
  • Norway is outside the European Union, and Åland is outside its tax union. Different import rules may therefore apply.
  • Pets, medicines and other special goods have separate rules.

Getting around

  • Train

    Trains are usually the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between cities. VR, Finland's railway operator, runs the network. Most stations have card-operated ticket machines with English instructions, and most train tickets are also sold at R-kioski stores. Tickets can also be bought by phone. Buy before boarding, especially at a small stop, because conductors generally do not sell tickets. Few stations have staff. Long-distance tickets include a seat, while regional trains have no seat reservations. Overnight trains provide pillows, sheets and blankets.

  • Bus

    Coaches reach most parts of Finland and are needed for much of Lapland. Smaller towns may have few services, especially on weekends and in summer. Many services sell tickets through the driver or a Matkahuolto partner counter. Onnibus tickets can be bought at R-kioski stores. Some short local routes need cash, while Onnibus and some local buses do not accept it. Carry small notes if paying cash because drivers may have little change. Hold out your arm at the stop to make the bus stop. In darkness, a reflector or light makes you easier to see.

  • Car

    Drive on the right and keep headlights or daytime running lights on. Make sure rear lights are on in winter and at dusk. Give way to traffic from the right unless signs say otherwise. Turning right at a red light is illegal, and trams have priority over other vehicles. Stop at pedestrian crossings when someone intends to cross. Seat belts are compulsory, and children under 135 cm usually need suitable safety equipment. Winter driving can be risky, particularly near freezing when nearly invisible ice forms. Winter tyres are compulsory in wintry conditions from November to March.

  • Domestic flight

    Flying is the fastest option but usually the most expensive. It is most useful when the alternative takes all day or when connecting from an international flight. Helsinki has flights to destinations around the country. Other domestic routes are limited. Booking ahead can reduce fares considerably. Finnair also offers youth and senior fares.

What to see and do

  • Helsinki

    Explore the city centre and its famous Lutheran Cathedral, especially on a warm summer day.

  • Turku and the Archipelago Sea

    Visit historical sites and see the islands from a yacht or large car ferry.

  • Porvoo

    Finland's second-oldest city has picturesque wooden houses and small boutiques.

  • Eastern Finland's Lakeland

    This region has around 60,000 lakes and a similar number of islands.

  • Olavinlinna Castle, Savonlinna

    The castle is especially atmospheric during the yearly Opera Festival.

  • Hämeenlinna Castle

    The source describes this 13th-century building as Finland's oldest castle.

Food and drink

  • Fish and potatoes

    Fish and meat dishes commonly come with potatoes and bread. The source's example meal includes smoked salmon, potatoes and creamy mushroom sauce.

  • Rye bread

    Finnish rye bread is a popular local food that Finns often miss when abroad.

  • Reindeer

    Reindeer products are among the local foods visitors can try or bring home.

  • Salmiakki and liquorice

    These sweets are popular with Finns and are common food souvenirs.

  • Pine-tar flavours

    Some foods use pine tar, called terva. Tar syrup can be eaten with pancakes.

  • International food

    Pizza, kebabs and burgers are available even in small towns. Larger cities have a wider range of international restaurants.

Money

Euro (€; EUR), divided into 100 cents.

  • Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, and contactless card payments are common. A card with a chip and personal identification number is useful because signature payments can be difficult.
  • Carry some small notes and coins for market stalls, small businesses and countryside accommodation. Some businesses accept only cards.
  • Cash totals are rounded to the nearest five cents. Card and mobile payments use the exact amount.
  • Large notes can be difficult to use, and some local buses will not accept even a €50 note.

Tipping: Tipping is optional and never necessary; restaurant bills include service charges. Cloakroom charges are separate fees, and public employees will not accept tips.

Typical costs

  • Very basic travel with a hostel dorm and self-catering costs at least €25 a day; budgeting about €50 is safer.
  • The cheapest hotels cost about €50 a night without breakfast, while regular hotels start around €80–100.
  • Hostel dorm beds usually cost less than €20 a night, and some private hostel rooms start around €30.
  • A fully equipped holiday cottage can cost €10–15 per person per night for a group outside the main season.
  • Museums and attractions usually charge €5–25.
  • One-way train or bus travel between major cities costs €20–100, depending on distance.
  • Car hire generally starts above €80 a day, with lower daily rates for longer rentals.

Language

  • Finnish and Swedish are the national languages.
  • Almost all Finns speak English, though some older people and rural residents may not.
  • Sámi languages, Romani and Finnish Sign Language are recognised in the constitution.
  • Russian is available in some shops and hotels, particularly near the Russian border.
  • Some Finns speak German or French, and some tourist services offer other languages.
suomi
Finnish, the language.
svenska
Swedish, the language.
vain käteinen
Cash only.
pikavuoro / snabbtur
Express coach service.
mehu
Juice.
maito / mjölk
Milk in Finnish and Swedish.
jopa
Up to, as used in advertised discounts.

Staying safe

  • Crime is comparatively low, and walking outside is usually safe even at night. Most violence is related to alcohol or happens within households.
  • Police are generally courteous and speak some English. They do not take bribes.
  • Roads and pavements can be icy in winter. Winter driving is particularly dangerous around freezing and at the start of the cold season.
  • Watch for moose and other animals on roads, especially at dawn and dusk. If an animal may be injured in a collision, note the location and call 112.
2 common scams in Finland, and how to avoid them

Local customs

Do

  • Keep wild campsites tidy, stay out of sight and avoid disturbing wildlife or other people.
  • Check sauna hours and any separate sessions for men and women.
  • Ask for help when needed; Finns may be shy but are usually glad to help.

Don't

  • Do not make an open fire without the landowner's permission. Open fires are never allowed during wildfire warnings.
  • Do not offer tips or bribes to public employees.
  • Do not stay at one wild camping spot for more than two nights.

Staying healthy

  • Tap water is safe to drink unless clearly marked otherwise. This exception can apply on trains.
  • Tick and mosquito bites are listed as health risks.
  • Winter can be extremely cold, particularly in the north. Freezing temperatures are possible even in midsummer in Lapland.
  • Smoking is generally prohibited in restaurants, bars, nightclubs and their outdoor seating areas. There may be a designated smoking spot.

Phone and internet

  • Almost all accommodation offers free wireless internet, except remote cottages.
  • Long-distance trains may have free wireless internet, but the connection can become crowded.
  • Onnibus double-decker coaches have wireless internet.

Where to stay

  • Typical hotel rooms cost around €100 a night or more. Many large hotels charge less on weekends and in summer.
  • Check whether breakfast and bed linen are included, especially in budget accommodation. A place calling itself a bed and breakfast may charge separately for breakfast.
  • Hostels offer dorm beds and sometimes inexpensive private rooms. Finland has a hostel network covering many cities.
  • Holiday cottages can be good value for groups, especially outside the main season. Countryside lodgings may expect you to cook for yourself.

Schengen Area

One visa, 29 countries

A Schengen visa from any member lets you travel across all of them, with no passport checks at the borders between them. With it, a trip to Finland can also take in:

  • Up to 90 days in any 180
  • One visa for every member
  • No border checks between members

Whether you need the visa at all depends on your passport. Check the entry rules for Finland before you plan the route.

Trips to Finland

Day-by-day itineraries by snuck, shaped around you.

5 nights
Lapland at Your PaceRovaniemiFrom, per person~US$2,080
 6 nights
A Finnish Summer for TwoHelsinkiPorvooTurkuTurku ArchipelagoFrom, per person~US$2,390
 8 nights
Helsinki to Arctic ForestsHelsinkiRovaniemiSaariselkäInariFrom, per person~US$3,460

Outdoor adventures in Finland

Finland has forests, lakes, islands and large wilderness areas for hiking, paddling and sailing. Summer suits water activities, while early autumn brings colourful forests and fewer mosquitoes. In winter, you can ski, walk on marked winter trails and look for the Northern Lights.

  • Archipelago Sea

    SailingSouth-western coast and Ålandnear Turku

    Summer

    Explore the islands by yacht. A large car ferry also offers views of the archipelago.

    • Wind and water can cool you quickly.
    • Wear a life jacket at all times in a small boat.

  • Nuuksio National Park

    HikeSouthern Finlandnear Helsinki

    Summer or early autumn

    Visit this small national park near Helsinki for hiking. The Metsähallitus online Excursion Map shows trails and huts.

    • Permit: Protected areas may have restrictions on where you can go. An open fire needs the landowner's permission, normally provided at designated campfire sites.
    • Carry a compass and prepare for changes in weather.
    • Never light an open fire during a wildfire warning.

  • Koli National Park

    HikeEastern Finland

    Summer or early autumn

    Use the Metsähallitus online Excursion Map to find trails and huts for a hiking visit.

    • Permit: Check restrictions on access within the protected area.
    • Prepare for changes in weather and carry a compass.
    • Never light an open fire during a wildfire warning.

  • Lemmenjoki National Park

    TrekLapland

    Summer or early autumn

    Plan a wilderness hiking visit using the Metsähallitus online Excursion Map, which marks trails and huts.

    • Permit: Check restrictions on access within the protected area.
    • Carry suitable equipment and a compass.
    • Tell someone your route and a firm return deadline.

  • Kilpisjärvi

    HikeNorthern Finland

    Summer or early autumn

    Use Kilpisjärvi as a destination for exploring Finland's highest hills. Consult the Metsähallitus online Excursion Map for trails and huts.

    • Prepare for changing weather and cold nights.
    • Carry a compass.

  • Levi

    SkiingLapland

    Winter and early spring, including March–April

    Visit Levi, one of Lapland's popular winter sports resorts.

    • Wear clothing and footwear suitable for severe cold.
    • Protect your eyes from bright snow during spring skiing.

  • Ylläs

    SkiingLapland

    Winter and early spring, including March–April

    Visit Ylläs for winter sports at a popular Lapland resort.

    • Prepare for severe cold.
    • Protect your eyes from bright snow during spring skiing.

  • Saariselkä winter sports and sledding

    SkiingLapland

    Winter and early spring

    Visit Saariselkä for winter sports or try its mile-long sledding track.

    • Dress for severe cold.
    • Protect your eyes from bright snow during spring skiing.

  • Ounasvaara Outdoor Resort

    SkiingLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    Winter for skiing; summer for trekking and mountain biking

    Go to Taunontie 14, about 3 km from central Rovaniemi.

    • The separate forest skiing area has unmaintained slopes.
    • Prepare for cold weather in winter.

  • Ounasvaara nature trail

    HikeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    Summer

    Start at the parking area about 600 m uphill from Santasport. Follow blue markers with a white cone.

    • Some sections have difficult terrain.
    • Watch the trail markings carefully on the open rocky ground above the shelter.

  • Ounasvaara winter walking trail

    HikeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    About 3 hours Winter

    Join the trail 170 m uphill from Jätkänkynttilä bridge, near Santasport or at Sky Hotel Ounasvaara. Follow blue markers showing a white walker and snowflake.

    • Walking on ski tracks is forbidden.
    • Check sunset time because midwinter daylight is short.

  • Arctic Circle National Hiking Area

    HikeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    Summer or early autumn

    The area is by the E75, 20 km east of central Rovaniemi. There are three trailheads with parking. Coaches towards Kemijärvi or Sodankylä stop at Lake Vikajärvi, near one trailhead.

    • Choose carefully: some trails are longer or more demanding.
    • Prepare for changes in weather.

  • Kalliosalmi–Olkkajärvi canoe route

    KayakingNorthern Finlandnear Rovaniemi

    Summer

    Start at Kalliosalmi on road 82 towards Kemijärvi, about 55 km from central Rovaniemi.

    • Services are scarce on the earlier part of the route.
    • The final 23 km through the Arctic Circle hiking area is the most demanding section.

  • Kolovesi National Park canoeing

    KayakingFinnish Lakelandnear Savonlinna

    Summer

    The visitor centre is in Enonkoski, 33 km from central Savonlinna. From there, reach the park by boat, bike, car or taxi. Boat access is also possible from the Heinävesi route.

    • Permit: Motor boats are forbidden in most of the park.
    • Wear a life jacket on the water.
    • Wind and water can cool you quickly.

  • Linnansaari National Park

    KayakingFinnish Lakelandnear Savonlinna

    Summer for boating and canoeing; winter for tour skating

    Take a cruise from Savonlinna or a daily coach to near Porosalmi, where boats serve the park. Saimaa Holiday Oravi also offers guided tours, equipment rental and boat transport. Ask the operator about transport to Oravi.

    • Wear a life jacket in a small boat.
    • Ask for and follow local advice before going onto winter ice.

  • Nallikari Beach

    BeacheNorthern Finlandnear Oulu

    Summer

    Take bus 15 from Oulu. By car, head north towards Tuira, then follow the road towards Hietasaari.

    • Check for underwater obstacles before jumping in.
    • Avoid swimming if the water contains large amounts of blue-green flakes.

  • Otanlahti Beach

    BeacheWest Coastnear Rauma

    Summer

    Go to Suvitie, a few kilometres from central Rauma.

    • Check the water for obstacles before jumping in.
    • Do not swim in water with large amounts of blue-green flakes.

  • Oulu–Tuira–Värttö riverside loop

    CyclingNorthern Finlandnear Oulu

    Summer

    Rent a bike or walk from central Oulu through Ainola park and over the dam to Tuira beach. Continue east, cross to the south bank and head to Värttö before returning to the centre.

  • Ruskotunturi

    SkiingNorthern Finlandnear Oulu

    Easy A day Winter

    Take bus 1 or 2 to Raitotien risteys/Raitotie, then walk 1.8 km. Drivers can leave the motorway at exit 11 and follow signs towards Rusko.

    • Wear clothing suitable for winter cold.

  • Omenapuumaa nature trail

    HikeWest Coastnear Rauma

    Summer or early autumn

    Travel 11 km north of central Rauma by road. A bike is the recommended way to reach the cape.

    • Wear a life jacket if using the rowing boat.

  • Koivusaari nature trail

    HikeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    Outside the spring flood period, which is May to early June

    Walk to Koivusaari island, 2 km from the city centre. Follow signs under the bridge to reach the trail.

    • The trail cannot be used during the spring flood.
    • The ground can be wet; much of the route uses raised wooden walkways.

  • Santa Claus Forest nature trail

    HikeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    From Santa Claus Village, walk through the underpass beside the bus stop. Bus 8 serves the village, 8.5 km north of central Rovaniemi.

    • The steepest climbs have wooden stairs.

  • Harjulampi birdwatching tower

    WildlifeLaplandnear Rovaniemi

    Easy May and August–September

    Walk from the centre to Yliopistonkatu by Lake Harjulampi, 500 m towards the centre from the university. A sign marks the easy path, less than 100 m from the street.

  • Tourujoki nature trail

    HikeFinnish Lakelandnear Jyväskylä

    Summer or early autumn

    Visit the nature protection area a few hundred metres from central Jyväskylä and follow the trail beside the Tourujoki river.

  • Lähdepelto cross-country skiing

    SkiingWest Coastnear Rauma

    Winter

    Go to Lähdepelto at Kodisjoentie 91 to use the cross-country skiing routes.

    • Dress for winter cold.
    • Protect your eyes from bright snow during spring skiing.

Airports, metros and trains in Finland

Airports with scheduled flights

  • HELHelsinki Vantaa AirportHelsinki (Vantaa)Main international airport
  • IVLIvalo AirportIvaloMain international airport
  • KTTKittilä International AirportKittiläMain international airport
  • KUOKuopio AirportKuopio / SiilinjärviMain international airport
  • LPPLappeenranta AirportLappeenrantaMain international airport
  • OULOulu AirportOulu / OulunsaloMain international airport

Metro and subway

  • HelsinkiHelsinki Metro30 stations43 kmsince 1982

Trains

Rail network
5,926 km
Electrified
3,270 km
High-speed lines
987.1 km
Top speed
220 km/h

People and safety in Finland

Religion

Most people are Christian. Mixed.

  • Christian69%
  • No religion31%
  • Other<1%

LGBT+ travellers

Legal and protected

  • Same-sex couples can marry.
  • Legal gender change is recognised.
  • Laws protect against discrimination.

Women travellers

Ranked #5 of 181 countries for women's safety, inclusion and justice.

78% of women say they feel safe walking alone at night where they live.

Who can visit without a visa

Travellers from 93 of 198 countries can visit Finland easily: no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Visa not required82
  • Freedom of movement11
  • Visa required104
  • Admission refused1

Who can visit easily, by part of the world

For each part of the world: how many countries' travellers can come easily. Easy means no visa, a visa at the airport, or a short online form.

  • Europe43 of 45 countries
  • Americas26 of 35 countries
  • Oceania10 of 14 countries
  • Asia12 of 50 countries
  • Africa2 of 54 countries

Questions

Which territories belong to Finland?

Åland Islands.

Do I need a separate visa for Finland's territories?

Often yes. Territories such as Åland Islands can have their own entry rules, so check each one before you travel.

When is the best time for a first visit?

Summer is generally best, with daytime temperatures around 15–25°C and long daylight hours. July is the warmest month.

Can I manage with English?

Almost all Finns speak English. Some older people and people in rural areas may speak little or none, but locals are generally willing to help.

Can I buy transport tickets without booking online?

Yes: most train tickets are sold at R-kioski stores, station card machines or by phone. Many bus tickets are sold by drivers or Matkahuolto partner counters, and Onnibus tickets are sold at R-kioski.

Do I need cash?

Cards are widely accepted, but some market stalls, small businesses and rural lodgings take only cash. Carry small notes and coins because large notes can be difficult to use.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, unless a sign says otherwise. Water on trains is one possible exception.

Do I need to tip?

No: tipping is optional, and restaurant bills already include service charges. A posted cloakroom fee is a separate charge.

Is breakfast included with accommodation?

Not always, even at hotels or places called bed and breakfasts. Check breakfast and bed linen before booking.

Can I camp in the countryside?

The right to access allows wild camping with limits, including a stay of at most two nights, no disturbance and no trace left behind. Rules are more limited in Åland, and open fires need permission and are banned during wildfire warnings.

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