Overview of Finland
Finland is a scenic country of lakes, islands, and forests, its pristine wilderness juxtaposed against ultramodern technology. With it extending well into the Arctic Circle, the sun never quite sets during summer, nor does it ever quite rise in the winter time.
This land of contrasts has plenty to delight and enchant visitors, from its forbidding castles and onion-domed Slavic churches to the reindeer herds of the indigenous Sami people of Lapland in the north.
Dine on reindeer steak, traverse the northern arctic home of Santa Claus, and ski or dog sled across virgin snow. After a trip out in the cold or one of the traditional folk festivals, let off some steam in a sauna. Invented by the Finnish, there are some two million saunas in the country.
The lively, modern capital city of Helsinki is packed with galleries, museums, and cafes, while beyond it lies vast swathes of countryside to explore in the clean clear air. Around 65 percent of the country is covered in forest and there are almost 40 national parks.
Despite its seemingly rugged environment, Finland is by no means a basic and simple country. In fact, it is regarded as being one of the most high-tech societies in the world and was the first country in the world to make internet access a legal right.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Finnish and Swedish share status as Finlands official languages. Sami is spoken by an isolated population group in Lapland. English is taught at schools and is widely understood.
- Passport/Visa:
-
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries.
Additionally, travellers to Finland must hold sufficient funds for their duration of stay in the country, a return or onward ticket, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Also note that joint passports must include a photograph of the spouse and, if issued after May 1, 2004, a photograph of each child over seven years of age and up to and including 15 years of age. Otherwise, a photo identification card showing the child's name, date of birth and nationality must be presented, together with the passport.
It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
-
The official currency of Finland is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Banks, ATMs and bureaux de change are available in all cities and airports; banks are closed on weekends. American Express, Diner's Club, Eurocard, Access, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. ATMs are the easiest and most economical way to get cash.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Standard European two-pin plugs are in use.
Travel to Finland
Overview
From the pulsating cultural scene in the capital of Helsinki to the striking natural beauty of the jagged and icy countryside, Finland remains one of the more unexplored places in Europe. While the cities and towns offer many unique cultural and historical attractions, the natural surroundings serve as a playground for both winter and summer activities.
Helsinki is the main point of entry for most visitors to Finland. This is where sightseers will find the country's finest museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping. It's easy to spend a week exploring the city and enjoying the cultural attractions. Some of the most important sights in the city include Finlandia Hall, the architecture around Senate Square, Suomenlinna, and the underground Rock Church.
Those with an interest in history or art will also want to allow some time to wander through the Finnish National Museum or the Finnish National Museum of Art. Nearby, the Open-Air Folk Museum on the island of Seurasaari, with old houses and timber buildings, reveals an in depth historical perspective on Finland.
From Helsinki there are a number of great day trips. Northeast of the city is the historic town of Provoo, which can be reached by road or by boat. To the north of Helsinki lies the medieval castle at Hameenlinna. To the west lies Turku, the ancient capital of Finland. Those looking to venture further afield will find a countryside of forests and lakes.
Climate in Finland
Considering how far north Finland is, the country has a milder climate than one might expect. In general, Finland has an extreme swing between summer and winter, with bitterly cold winters when temperatures drop to -4ºF (-20ºC) in many areas, particularly in northern Lapland. Summer, by contrast, can be surprisingly warm with temperatures rising to 68ºF (20ºC) or more. Temperatures as high as 86ºF (30ºC) are possible in the south and east of the country.
The capital, Helsinki, remains fairly temperate varying between an average of 63ºF (17ºC) in July to 23ºF (-5ºC) in February. February is the coldest month in Finland and July is the warmest. Snow usually covers the ground in southern Finland from December to April, and northern Finland is snowbound from October to April.
In the far north, the sun does not set for about 73 days during summer, while in winter the sun remains below the horizon for a 51-day stretch. The winter night sky - especially in the northern areas of Finland - is often lit up with the seemingly magical light displays of the Northern Lights. If you want the mildest weather, the best time to visit Finland is between May and September. But when you should go is dependent on what you want out of your holiday.
Health Notes when travelling to Finland
There are no major health risks associated with travel to Finland. British and other EU nationals should ensure they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which entitles citizens to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Finnish citizens. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised.
Safety Notes when travelling to Finland
Crime levels are low in Finland and visitors can be assured of a trouble-free vacation. Drug offences and drinking and driving are dealt with very harshly. The main danger in the country is driving during the winter months, when icy roads are a hazard and cars must be fitted with snow tyres.
Customs in Finland
The sauna is a Finnish way of life, so they are extremely popular. Words are taken seriously in Finland and people are held to what they say, so be sure of what you're saying before you speak.
Duty Free in Finland
Travellers to Finland arriving from the EU can enter Finland without restrictions on the quantity of purchases, provided they have been bought in the EU for personal consumption or as gift items. No restrictions are placed on meat and dairy products. Some restrictions may apply to selected tobacco products. Travellers over 20 years arriving from non-EU countries are allowed to bring in the following items without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco. With regards to alcohol, one litre of spirits with maximum 22 percent alcohol content, or two litres of alcoholic beverages not exceeding 22 percent alcohol content, and four litres of wine and 16 litres of beer is allowed duty free.
Doing Business in Finland
Business is conducted formally in Finland. A formal, understated sense of dress is important. Punctuality is also very important in Finland and being late is considered rude. Appointments should always be made and confirmed.
Meetings are often strictly business and are not often over lunch. Finns do not require a strong relationship prior to doing business, and business often takes place over the phone, fax, and via e-mail. However, the sauna is an important part of the culture and it is not unusual for business to be discussed in this environment on a more sociable level.
Finns are very direct and prefer getting straight to the point. Often a verbal agreement may hold. At meetings business cards are exchanged and should have, on the alternate side, details in Finnish. Business hours are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday.
Communication in Finland
The international country dialling code for Finland is +358. Free wifi is available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and similar establishments in all major towns and cities. There are free wifi hotspots with high speed internet in Helsinki.
Tipping in Finland
Tips are not expected in Finland because a service charge is generally added to restaurant, bar and hotel bills, but customers often choose to round up the bill when paying in cash. Taxi drivers also appreciate any small change or coins that are added to round up the fare.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen Area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option, and which allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all the aforementioned countries.
Additionally, travellers to Finland must hold sufficient funds for their duration of stay in the country, a return or onward ticket, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Also note that joint passports must include a photograph of the spouse and, if issued after May 1, 2004, a photograph of each child over seven years of age and up to and including 15 years of age. Otherwise, a photo identification card showing the child's name, date of birth and nationality must be presented, together with the passport.
It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Finland. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Finland. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
British passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar, only need to be valid for period of intended stay in Finland. All other endorsements require at least three months validity beyond the period of intended stay in Finland.
A visa is not required for passports endorsed 'British Citizen', 'British Subject' (containing a Certificate of Entitlement to the Right of Abode issued by the United Kingdom), and 'British Overseas Territories Citizen' issued by Gibraltar. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180 day period for holders of passports with any other endorsement.
Holders of identity cards issued by Gibraltar authories, and endorsed 'Validated for EU travel purposes under the authority of the United Kingdom', do not require a visa to visit Finland.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Finland. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid on arrival. No visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Finland. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 90 days in a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for three months beyond the intended period of stay, and a valid Schengen visa, to enter Finland.
Tourist Offices
Helsinki Tourist Information, Helsinki: +358 (0)10 3101 3300 or http://www.visitfinland.com
Finland Embassies
- In the United States:
-
Embassy of Finland, Washington DC, United States: +1 (0)202 298 5800
- In Canada:
-
Embassy of Finland, Ottawa, Canada: +1 (0)613 288 2233
- In the United Kingdom:
-
Embassy of Finland, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7838 6200
- In Australia:
-
Embassy of Finland, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 3800
- In Ireland:
-
Embassy of Finland, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 478 1344
- In New Zealand:
-
Consulate-General of Finland, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 924 3416
- In South Africa:
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Embassy of Finland, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 343 0275
Foreign Embassies in Finland
- American Embassy
-
United States Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)9 616 250
- Canadian Embassy
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Canadian Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)9 228 530
- British Embassy
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British Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)9 2286 5100
- Australian Embassy
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Australian Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)10 42 04 492
- Irish Embassy
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Irish Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)9 682 4240
- New Zealand Embassy
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New Zealand Embassy, The Hague, Netherlands (also responsible for Finland): +31 (0)70 346 9324
- South African Embassy
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South African Embassy, Helsinki: +358 (0)9 6860 3100
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Finland
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis A | Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Finland, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you. |  |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Finland, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
|  |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Finland, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in bats and other mammals in Finland, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites or other animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Eat and drink safely
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
Top
Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Finland, so your behaviors are important.
Food and water standards in Finland are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.
Hide Although Finland is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Hide If your travel plans in Finland include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
- If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Hide Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Hide Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Hide Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Hide Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
- Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Finland’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
Hide Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Make sure there are seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Finland, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Hide Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Hide Top
Hide Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Finland for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Top
Hide Travel Health Notices
There are no notices currently in effect for Finland.
Top
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
Top
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency of Finland is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Banks, ATMs and bureaux de change are available in all cities and airports; banks are closed on weekends. American Express, Diner's Club, Eurocard, Access, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger shops. ATMs are the easiest and most economical way to get cash.
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Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro
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1.12 BMD
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1.12 USD
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1.10 CHF
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Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport (HEL)
Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport
http://www.finavia.fi
Location: Helsinki The airport is situated about 11 miles (17km) from Helsinki city centre.
Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday in October).
Contacts:
Tel: +358 (0)200 14636
Transfer between terminals:
Terminals are in the same building and within easy walking distance of one another.
Getting to the city:
There are regular bus services between Helsinki, the railway station and the airport. Bus transfers from the airport to local hotels and parking areas are free of charge. The Finnair City Bus also transfers passengers to downtown Helsinki.
Car rental:
Avis, Budget, Hertz and Europcar are represented at the airport. Service desks are located in the corridor between the two terminals.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available at ranks outside the Arrivals hall of both domestic and international terminals.
Facilities:
The airport has several banks with exchange facilities, and there are ATMs throughout the airport. Numerous restaurants and cafes are available in the terminals, as well as duty-free shops and shopping areas with a variety of retail outlets. Sleeping pods, a play area, travel agencies, a pharmacy and luggage storage are also available.
Parking:
Parking at Helsinki Vantaa International Airport is charged at rates ranging from €13 to €36 for one day. Short-term parking for pick-ups and drop-offs is charged at €1 every 10 minutes.
Oulu Airport (OUL)
Oulu Airport
http://www.finavia.fi
Location: Oulu The airport is located nine miles (14km) from Oulu city centre.
Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)
Getting to the city:
Buses are available between the city and the airport and are reasonably priced.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Scandia Rent and Sixt.
Airport Taxis:
Airport taxis are available at the taxi ranks to transport passengers to their required destination.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include a children's playroom, ATMs, pharmacy, shopping, a café, restaurants and rocking chairs for waiting passengers.
Parking:
Three parking lots are available at the airport and are located in front of the terminal. P1 has power supplies for the heating and charging of electric cars and P1 and P2 have 20 minutes free parking. Handicapped spaces are located in front of the terminal. P1 parking costs about EUR 3 for one hour, EUR 6 for two hours and about EUR 23 for nine to 24 hours. P2 parking costs about EUR 2 for one hour, about EUR 5 for two hours and about EUR 12 for a stay of 14 hours.
Vaasa Airport (VAA)
Vaasa Airport
http://www.finavia.fi
Location: Vaasa The airport is located about six miles (10km) from Vaasa city centre.
Time: GMT +2 (GMT +3 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday in October).
Getting to the city:
Bus services are available to the city centre.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Europcar, Hertz and Scandia Rent.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available at the taxi stand. The airport has two taxi phones which are free of charge, one inside the terminal and the other outside the terminal.
Facilities:
Airport facilities include shops, cafés, meeting rooms, childcare facilities, rocking chairs and services for people with disabilities.
Parking:
Parking is available at the airport and in P1 it costs EUR 2 for the first hour, and goes up to a daily maximum of EUR 14. P2 has free parking for a maximum of 25 minutes.
Overview of the Attractions in Finland
From the pulsating cultural scene in the capital of Helsinki to the striking natural beauty of the jagged and icy countryside, Finland remains one of the more unexplored places in Europe. While the cities and towns offer many unique cultural and historical attractions, the natural surroundings serve as a playground for both winter and summer activities.
Helsinki is the main point of entry for most visitors to Finland. This is where sightseers will find the country's finest museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shopping. It's easy to spend a week exploring the city and enjoying the cultural attractions. Some of the most important sights in the city include Finlandia Hall, the architecture around Senate Square, Suomenlinna, and the underground Rock Church.
Those with an interest in history or art will also want to allow some time to wander through the Finnish National Museum or the Finnish National Museum of Art. Nearby, the Open-Air Folk Museum on the island of Seurasaari, with old houses and timber buildings, reveals an in depth historical perspective on Finland.
From Helsinki there are a number of great day trips. Northeast of the city is the historic town of Provoo, which can be reached by road or by boat. To the north of Helsinki lies the medieval castle at Hameenlinna. To the west lies Turku, the ancient capital of Finland. Those looking to venture further afield will find a countryside of forests and lakes.
Suomenlinna Fortress
Helsinki
Opening time: Open daily 10am-6pm during summer and 10.30am-4.30pm during winter.
Admission: EUR 7 for adults, concessions available.
The historically significant Suomenlinna Fortress is not only a major military monument worthy of the UNESCO World Heritage List, but also home to about 800 Finns who live in the renovated barracks. The entire site is a fun, multifaceted attraction for Helsinki residents and visitors. Built during Swedish rule in the 18th century, the fortress is situated on an island at the entrance to Helsinki's harbour. The fortification became a strategic military shipyard with one of the biggest dry docks in the world, comparable to the fortress at Gibraltar. Apart from admiring the architecture, there is plenty to experience at Suomenlinna, which contains six museums, galleries, restaurants, cafes, several parks, beaches, and nature areas. Guided walking tours are offered and there are always events taking place like exhibitions, jazz shows, and theatrical performances, particularly during summer.
Getting there: Ferry or water bus.
Telephone: (295) 338 410
Website: http://www.suomenlinna.fi
Senate Square
Helsinki
Architecture buffs will enjoy sitting in a cafe admiring the buildings surrounding Helsinki's lively Senate Square, renowned for some of Europe's finest examples of the neoclassical style. But you don't need any knowledge of architecture to enjoy this lovely square, which has a great atmosphere and is one of the central meeting places of the city. The square is dominated by the city's main landmark, the Lutheran Cathedral, designed by Carl Ludwig Engel and consecrated in 1852. The interior is as perfect as the exterior design, and is open to the public daily for no charge. Other buildings on the Square designed by Engel are the Government Palace, completed in 1822, and the University buildings, completed by 1832. The square is a thrilling place to be on New Year's Eve as this is where the locals come to celebrate with singing, dancing, and brilliant fireworks displays. There are bus and walking tours of Helsinki departing from the square, which is a good starting
point for exploration of the city.
Uspenski Cathedral
Helsinki
Admission: Free
Many have compared Helsinki to the beautiful Russian city of St Petersburg, a close neighbour across a strait of water. The exotic redbrick Uspenski Cathedral cements the Russian connection, designed by Aleksei Gornostayev of St Petersburg in the mid-1800s. The ornate cathedral sits atop a rocky outcrop on the Katajanokka Peninsula opposite the fish market, fronted by a statue of Tsar Alexander II as a memento of Russia's occupation of Finland until 1919. The magnificent Byzantine edifice is topped with a characteristic golden onion dome, and the interior is opulently decorated with valuable icons. The cathedral is beautifully situated and very eye-catching as it can be seen from many places in the city. There are wonderful views of Helsinki from the hill. Parts of the church are off-limits when there is not a service being conducted but there is still plenty to see. Flash photography is not allowed inside.
Address: Pormestarinrinne 1, Katajanokka
Telephone: (098) 564 6200
Market Square
Helsinki
Known locally as Kauppatori, the Market Square in Helsinki is the central meeting point of the city. The space is sandwiched between the sea and a row of impressive historic buildings which include the City Hall, the Swedish Embassy, and the Presidential Palace. Trams and waterbuses converge on the square, where visitors gather to watch the changing of the guard at the palace and admire the Havis Amanda mermaid statue at the west end of the Square in front of Esplanade Park. There is a longstanding tradition of displaying old American cars in the square on the first Friday of every month, which is fun for motor enthusiasts. The square is also a departure point for the ferries that travel to Suomenlinna, and it is possible to hire private vessels for sailing trips out to other nearby islands in summer. The Baltic Herring Festival occurs every year in October, serving as the oldest recurring festival in Helsinki. It's a particularly good time to visit as lots of food and
craft stalls spring up in the square, with plenty of herring to sample. Seagulls have become something of a menace in the Market Square, swooping down to snatch food of all kinds from the hands of unsuspecting tourists.
Temppeliaukio Church
Helsinki
An awesome and unique piece of architecture, the Temppeliaukio (Church in the Rock) was designed by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen and carved out of solid granite as recently as 1969. It has become one of Helsinki's most famous attractions, its rock walls roofed over with a massive concave copper ceiling, which gives it excellent acoustics and makes the roof seem like an enormous sun. From the outside, it still feels like part of the rock that surrounds it. The interior is magnificent and quite the opposite of the dark cave you would expect when looking at the rock-hewn building. It is an unusual place of worship but clearly a spiritual attraction and no matter what your beliefs this artistic church will surprise and perhaps inspire you. The church is often used as a venue for musical events due to its wonderful acoustics and there are sometimes piano recitals in the afternoons; if you visit during one of these performances you can leave a donation to show
your appreciation. English services are occasionally conducted on Sundays at 2pm.
Telephone: (092) 340 5940
Seurasaari Open Air Museum
Helsinki
Opening time: Monday to Friday 9am-3pm, Saturday to Sunday 11am-5pm mid-May to mid-October.
Admission: EUR 9 June to August, EUR 6 May, September and October. Concessions available.
The Seurasaari Open-Air Museum allows visitors to step back in time and glimpse the traditional way of life in the Finnish countryside, and all this in the heart of the capital city, Helsinki. Situated on a lovely green island accessed from the mainland via a footbridge, the museum consists of a collection of cottages, farmsteads, rural churches, manor houses, and other old buildings, all preserved and relocated from their original sites around the provinces of Finland. The 87 buildings currently on the museum site have been arranged to form a complete replica of a country district, reflecting what life was like in various levels of rural society between the 18th and 20th centuries.
Getting there: By bus and car.
Address: Seurasaari Island
Website: http://www.nba.fi/en/seurasaari_openairmuseum
National Museum of Finland
Helsinki
Opening time: 11am-6pm Tuesday to Sundays, closed Mondays and public holidays.
Admission: EUR 10 for adults, concessions available, free between 4pm and 6pm on Friday.
History enthusiasts will enjoy the National Museum of Finland in Helsinki, which depicts Finnish life from prehistoric times to the present. Housed in an impressive Romantic-style building, it looks a bit like a castle. The museum's permanent exhibition is divided into different sections: the Treasure Trove, which is a display of coins, medals, and weaponry, while the archaeological section features some rare Stone Age finds. In addition, the cultural heritage collection displays folk costumes, textiles, and furniture. The Workshop Vintti offers an exciting interactive approach to history, letting you sit on a throne, saddle a horse, or build an authentic Finnish wall. Other highlights include the section on the Vikings and the exhibition on jewellery through the ages in Finland. One common criticism of this otherwise popular museum is that there is not adequate coverage of the Finnish wars, which may be a disappointment to military history lovers. The museum has
regular temporary exhibitions as well as the extensive permanent collection but these usually carry an extra cover charge. The rich history of the Finnish is relatively unknown to outsiders, which makes this museum especially intriguing. The museum also has a cafe and shop.
Getting there: By foot (10 minute walk from Central Station), by tram or by car.
Address: Mannerheimintie 34
Telephone: (295) 33 6000
Website: http://www.nba.fi/en/nmf
Santa Claus Village
Helsinki
Santa Claus Village is a popular daytrip from Helsinki via trains to Rovaniemi. Every day is Christmas in this rather commercialised but still quaint Lapland hideaway of northern Finland. Here, Mr Claus spends his time preparing gifts for the world's children and meeting and greeting an estimated 500,000 delighted visitors a year. Coincidentally, the valley inside the Arctic Circle where Santa's Village is set is shaped like an ear, so it is said that Santa can listen to all kids across the planet. All sorts of activities are on offer at the village, including a reindeer park, snow safaris, and Santa's personal post office, from which you can mail letters or cards home. There are beautiful Christmas decorations on sale, along with plenty of opportunities for present shopping. Santa Claus Village and Santa Park are located just a mile from the international airport of Rovaniemi (capital of Lapland), and is also accessible by bus or train from Helsinki.
Website: http://www.santaclausvillage.info
Helsinki Zoo
Helsinki
Opening time: Daily 10am-8pm in summer and 10pm to 4pm in winter.
Admission: EUR 12 for adults, concessions available
Situated on the popular island of Korkeasaari, the Helsinki Zoo is one of the best family attractions in Helsinki and can be reached by bus, car, or ferry during the summer. Home to about 150 different animal species and almost seven times that many varieties of plant life, the zoo makes a great stop for anyone travelling with children in Helsinki. The place is arranged in different habitats so that visitors move from one world to another through tundra, rainforest, mountains, wetlands, deserts, and tropics. Each season also presents visitors with different experiences, ranging from autumn when the big cats get more active to greeting the newborns in spring. Visitors can see Finnish wildlife like musk ox, reindeer, and snowy owls, or more exotic flora and fauna from all over the world, including rare animals like the majestic snow leopard and the red panda. As part of its mission to preserve and protect biodiversity the Helsinki zoo breeds and raises endangered
animals. The zoo, founded 120 years ago, also offers rest areas, restaurants, and souvenir shops and you can bring your own picnic and enjoy it sitting on the cliff tops with lovely views.
Getting there: By bus, car or ferry (only in summer).
Address: Mustikkamaanpolku 12, Korkeasaari
Telephone: (09) 310 37900
Website: http://www.korkeasaari.fi
Public Holidays in Finland
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| New Year's Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Whit Sunday |
Sat. May 31 |
Fri. May 23 |
| Easter Day |
Sat. April 12 |
Fri. April 4 |
| Epiphany |
Mon. January 6 |
Mon. January 6 |
| Good Friday |
Thu. April 10 |
Wed. April 2 |
| Easter Monday |
Sun. April 13 |
Sat. April 5 |
| May Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Ascension Day |
Wed. May 21 |
Tue. May 13 |
| Midsummer's Eve |
Fri. June 20 |
Thu. June 26 |
| Independence Day |
Sat. December 6 |
Sat. December 6 |
| Christmas Day |
Thu. December 25 |
Thu. December 25 |
| Boxing Day |
Fri. December 26 |
Fri. December 26 |
| All Saint's Day |
Fri. October 31 |
Thu. November 6 |
