Everything you need to know before visiting Finland in 2024
Helsinki, Finland
Finland Travel Details 🇫🇮
Finland, known for its stunning natural landscapes and high quality of life, has a population of approximately 5.5 million people. The capital, Helsinki, is a vibrant coastal city famous for its design, architecture, and maritime history. Other notable cities include Espoo, Tampere, and Turku, each offering unique cultural experiences. Finland is renowned for its education system, social welfare, and as a global leader in environmental sustainability. The country boasts expansive forests, thousands of lakes, and the enchanting phenomena of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun. The official languages are Finnish and Swedish, with English widely spoken, especially in urban areas.
Country
Finland 🇫🇮
Capital
Helsinki
Country code
FI
Region
Europe (Northern Europe)
Population
~5,518,000 people
Calling code
+358
Currencies
Euro (€)
Timezones
UTC+02:00, UTC+03:00
Check if need a visa to visit Finland
Essential Details to Know Before Visiting Finland in 2024
Electrical Plugs
Finland uses Type C and F plugs with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.
Languages
The official languages are Finnish and Swedish. English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas.
Currency
The official currency is the Euro (EUR).
Payment Methods
Major credit cards including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming increasingly common.
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. Most accept international cards.
Tipping Culture
Tipping is not as common in Finland as in other countries. Service charges are usually included in the bill, and rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected.
Internet Connectivity
Finland has excellent internet coverage and is renowned for its high-speed and reliable internet services.
Telecom Providers
Major telecom companies include Elisa, Telia, and DNA.
International Calling
The international calling code for Finland is +358.
SIM Cards for Travelers
SIM cards for travelers are readily available at airports, convenience stores, and telecom provider stores. Popular providers include Elisa and Telia.
Finland Visa
Finland offers various visa types for travelers depending on the purpose of their visit. The most common is the Schengen Visa, which allows stays for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Other visa types include student visas for academic purposes and work visas for employment. Applicants must submit a visa application along with necessary documents such as a valid passport, application form, and proof of travel insurance. Generally, visa processing times can range from a few days to a few weeks. It's advisable to check the latest requirements and guidelines from the Finnish Immigration Service or the nearest Finnish consulate.
The best time to visit Finland depends on what you wish to experience. Summer months from June to August are ideal for enjoying long daylight hours and outdoor activities, while December to February is perfect for winter sports and catching the Northern Lights.
How Much Time Should I Spend in Finland?
A 7-10 day trip to Finland is usually sufficient to explore the country's diverse offerings from vibrant cities like Helsinki to the serene landscapes of Lapland and the Lakeland.
How Much Money Do I Need For Finland?
Finland can be quite expensive, so budget around €100-€150 per day for accommodation, meals, and transportation. A more lavish stay may cost upwards of €200 per day.
What Should I Pack For My Trip to Finland?
Considering Finland's varying weather, pack warm clothing and layers for winter visits, and light, breathable clothing for summer. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, a good camera for the stunning scenery, and any necessary personal medications.
How to Stay Safe During Your Trip to Finland
Ensuring your safety and well-being while enjoying all that Finland has to offer can significantly enhance your travel experience. From keeping an eye on health tips to being aware of safety protocols, here are some crucial guidelines and relevant resources for travelers heading to Finland.
Health Tips and Rules
Make sure to carry any prescribed medication with you, along with a copy of your prescription. Pharmacies are widely available but it's always good to be prepared. Finland has high-quality healthcare, but it's still wise to have comprehensive travel insurance.
Dial 112 for any emergency; it is a centralized emergency response.
Discovering and Getting Around Finland
Traveling around Finland is a delightful experience thanks to its smooth and reliable public transportation network. From the cosmopolitan vibe of Helsinki to the serene Lapland wilderness, getting around is straightforward with a variety of transport options. This comprehensive guide presents key details on public transit, catering to tourists who want to make the most of their Finnish journey. Whether you're hopping on a train, catching a bus, or renting a bike, here's everything you need to know to ensure seamless travels in Finland.
Trains
Travelling by train is a convenient and scenic way to explore Finland. The Finnish Railways, represented by VR, offer both regional and long-distance services. Trains are typically timely, comfortable, and well-equipped with free Wi-Fi. Additionally, there are night trains available that can take you straight up to Lapland while you sleep. It’s a great option if you want to wake up to a winter wonderland!
Buses
Bus services serve as a crucial part of Finland's public transportation, especially in areas where trains may not reach. Matkahuolto operates an extensive network of buses across the country. Buses are modern and provide a cost-effective means of travel. Long-distance services often feature amenities like free Wi-Fi and baggage storage. Booking tickets in advance can sometimes score you a nice discount.
Helsinki Region Transport (HSL)
Navigating Helsinki and its surrounding areas is a breeze with HSL. Offering an integrated system of buses, trams, ferries, and metro services, HSL enables easy and quick transportation within the region. The same ticket can be used across different modes of transport, making switches between buses and trams ultra-convenient. Mobile tickets, travel cards, and physical tickets are available means to access these services.
Ferries
For those looking to explore Finland’s beautiful archipelago, ferries are a fantastic option. Various routes operate from major cities like Helsinki and Turku, taking you to charming islands and coastal towns. Services range from short commuter ferries to extended cruises that might even extend to countries like Sweden and Estonia. It’s an excellent way to combine sightseeing with transportation!
Bike Rentals
Finland’s cities are increasingly bike-friendly with dedicated lanes and paths. Bike-sharing systems, particularly popular in Helsinki, provide tourists an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to get around. Available through apps, these bikes can be rented at multiple points across the city and dropped off at any designated station. It’s perfect for a leisurely tour or for navigating short distances.
Taxis and Ridesharing
In addition to public transit, taxis and ridesharing services like Uber are available in major Finnish cities. Taxis here can be hailed on the street, booked via apps, or ordered by phone. They are generally easy to find in city centers, and most are well-regulated ensuring safety and fair pricing. For late-night travel or trips to less connected areas, taxis can be incredibly convenient.
Air Travel
For longer distances, especially for trips to Northern Finland, domestic air travel might be the most efficient option. Finnair and Norwegian are among the key operators providing frequent flights connecting major cities. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves as the primary hub, and smaller airports scattered across Finland ensure that even remote destinations are accessible by air.
Driving in Finland is generally very safe and the roads are well-maintained.
Road Side
In Finland, vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
Driver's License
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU licenses. EU licenses are accepted.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 120 km/h on highways, unless otherwise posted.
Seat Belts
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in both front and rear seats.
Mobile Phone Use
It is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving. Hands-free devices are permitted.
Alcohol Limit
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
Winter Tires
Winter tires are mandatory from November 1st to March 31st, and this period can be extended depending on weather conditions.
Headlights
Headlights must be used at all times while driving.
Finland Timezones
Finland operates on Eastern European Time (EET) during the winter (UTC+02:00) and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) during the summer (UTC+03:00).
Finland Borders
Finland shares borders with Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, and Russia to the east.
Finland's Border with Sweden
Finland shares a long and unfortified border with Sweden. The two countries have a strong historical and cultural connection.
Finland's Border with Norway
The border with Norway is located in the far north. Both countries maintain friendly relations and have agreements for cross-border cooperation.
Finland's Border with Russia
Finland's eastern border with Russia is the longest and heavily guarded. The two countries have complex historical ties and maintain regulated interactions.
