Travel
FinlandTravel
Finland, with its enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. From witnessing the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi to exploring the historical streets of Turku, there's something for everyone. For nature lover or a history buff, Finland's cities promise unforgettable adventures.
Helsinki, Rovaniemi, and Turku are among the best cities to visit in Finland. Helsinki offers a vibrant cultural scene, Rovaniemi is perfect for winter activities and the Northern Lights, while Turku boasts rich history and medieval architecture. Each city provides unique experiences, making them top choices for travelers.
Visitors often find Finland's blend of modern urban life and untouched nature a delightful surprise, offering diverse experiences within short distances.
Traveling to Finland requires understanding its visa and entry requirements. For non-EU visitors, a Schengen Visa is necessary, costing €80 ($88) and taking approximately 15 days to process.
Citizens from EU countries and select others can enter Finland visa-free for up to 90 days. Students need a visa, requiring proof of enrollment and financial means, with an application fee of €350 ($385). A work visa demands a job offer from a Finnish employer, with processing times typically ranging from 1-3 months.
Get the latest guides, tips, and updates delivered straight to your inbox.
As of 2026, ETIAS authorization is mandatory for visa-exempt travelers, costing €7 ($7.70).: Finland offers a digital nomad visa for remote workers, allowing them to stay for up to a year.
Finland's transportation network is efficient and well-connected.90). Matkahuolto provides intercity bus services, with fares from €10 ($11) for short distances, offering a budget-friendly option.
For air travel, Finnair connects major cities, with flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi averaging €100 ($110). Rideshare services like Kyyti offer affordable options, with prices from €5 ($5.50) for short trips. In Helsinki, the metro system is convenient, with single-journey tickets costing €3 ($3.30).60) plus €1.60 ($1.76) per kilometer. Apps like Taksi Helsinki are popular for booking rides.: Finland's trains are equipped with free Wi-Fi and children's play areas, making them family-friendly.
Accommodation in Finland caters to various budgets. For budget travelers, Hostel Diana Park in Helsinki offers dorm beds from €30 ($33) per night. Mid-range options like Scandic Tampere City provide rooms from €120 ($132), including breakfast.Eco-friendly travelers can opt for Nolla Cabin in the Helsinki Archipelago, a sustainable stay costing €100 ($110) per night.
: The Hotel Torni in Helsinki offers a rooftop bar with panoramic city views, a favorite among locals.
| City | Budget Hotel | Price/Night | Mid-Range Hotel | Price/Night | Luxury Hotel | Price/Night |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Helsinki | Hostel Diana Park | €30 ($33) | Scandic Simonkenttä | €150 ($165) | Hotel Kämp | €350 ($385) |
| Tampere | Dream Hostel & Hotel | €35 ($38.50) | Original Sokos Hotel Wiklund | €110 ($121) | Radisson Blu Marina Palace | €220 ($242) |
| Oulu | Turusensaha Guesthouse | €45 ($49.50) | Lapland Hotels Oulu | €130 ($143) | Radisson Blu Hotel Oulu | €250 ($275) |
Finland offers a unique culinary experience that blends traditional flavors with modern innovations. When visiting Finland, there are several must-try dishes that provide a taste of the country's rich heritage and natural bounty. One dish that stands out is **Karjalanpiirakka**, or Karelian pies. These pastries, originating from the Karelia region, are made with a thin rye crust and filled with rice porridge. They are often served with a topping of egg butter.Another staple is **Lohikeitto**, a creamy salmon soup that is both hearty and comforting. This dish is a testament to Finland's love for fresh fish, often caught from the country's numerous lakes and rivers. **Ravintola Savotta**, located near Helsinki's Senate Square, offers a delightful version of this soup, along with other traditional Finnish dishes. For a taste of Finland's wild flavors, **Poronkäristys** (sautéed reindeer) is a must. This dish is particularly popular in Lapland and is often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce.If you have a sweet tooth, don't miss out on **Pulla**, a cardamom-spiced sweet bread, often enjoyed with coffee. **Kanniston Leipomo**, a bakery in Helsinki, is renowned for its fresh and aromatic pulla, making it a perfect stop for an afternoon treat. For those looking to explore modern Finnish cuisine, **Grön** in Helsinki is a Michelin-starred restaurant that focuses on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes seasonally, offering innovative dishes that highlight the best of Finnish produce. In summary, Finland's food scene is a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. Whether you're savoring a classic Karelian pie or indulging in a modern culinary creation, the country's diverse offerings promise a memorable gastronomic journey.
Finland is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates. However, visitors should still be cautious in crowded areas like Helsinki Central Station, where pickpocketing can occur. Always use licensed taxis or apps like Taksi Helsinki to avoid overcharging.
Be wary of fake charity scams, especially in tourist areas. Finland's emergency number is 112, and it's important to be aware of online scams targeting tourists.: Finland has a "lost and found" culture. items are often returned to their owners.
Finland can be an expensive destination, but budgeting wisely can help manage costs. A budget traveler can expect to spend around €60 ($66) per day, including a hostel stay (€30), meals (€20), and local transport (€10). Mid-range travelers might spend about €150 ($165) per day, covering a 3-star hotel (€80), dining (€50), and activities (€20).
For luxury travelers, a daily budget of €300 ($330) is realistic, with a 5-star hotel (€200), fine dining (€70), and exclusive tours (€30). Helsinki's public transport offers a daily pass for €9 ($9.90), ideal for tourists.: Many museums in Finland offer free entry on certain days of the month.
Understanding Finnish cultural etiquette can enhance your travel experience. Sauna etiquette is important. always shower before entering and respect the quiet atmosphere. Punctuality is highly valued in Finland, whether for social or business meetings.
Finns appreciate silence and personal space, especially in public transport. Tipping isn't customary, as service charges are included in bills.: It's common to remove shoes when entering someone's home in Finland.
Beyond the well-known cities, Finland offers hidden gems worth exploring. Hossa National Park is known for its crystal-clear lakes and ancient rock paintings. Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts well-preserved wooden architecture.
Nuuksio National Park offers serene hiking trails just an hour from Helsinki. Seurasaari Island is an open-air museum in Helsinki showcasing traditional Finnish buildings. Iso-Syöte, Finland's southernmost fell, is ideal for skiing and winter sports.: The Kvarken Archipelago is rising from the sea due to post-glacial rebound, creating new islands over time.
CityMonthly Cost1BR RentTransport Helsinki€1,500 ($1,650)€1,000 ($1,100)€60 ($66) Tampere€1,200 ($1,320)€800 ($880)€50 ($55) Rovaniemi€1,000 ($1,100)€600 ($660)€40 ($44) Turku€1,100 ($1,210)€700 ($770)€50 ($55) Oulu€1,000 ($1,100)€650 ($715)€45 ($49.Source: Migri. Fi
📌 March 2026:
New sustainable tourism regulations have been introduced in Lapland, promoting eco-friendly accommodations. Source: Visit Finland.com
📌 April 2026:
Helsinki's metro line has been extended to Espoo, enhancing connectivity. Source: HSL. Fi
Understanding the cost of living in Finland's cities is crucial for effective budgeting. In Helsinki, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is approximately €1,200 ($1,320), while utilities add another €120 ($132). In Turku, you can find similar accommodation for around €800 ($880), making it a more affordable option. Rovaniemi offers even lower rents, averaging €600 ($660), appealing to those seeking a budget-friendly lifestyle. Groceries in Helsinki typically cost around €300 ($330) per month, slightly higher compared to Turku's €250 ($275) and Rovaniemi's €220 ($242).
When visiting Finland, consider purchasing aHelsinki Cardfor discounted access to major attractions and free public transport. The card costs €51 ($56) for 24 hours. In Turku, the city'sarchipelagois best explored by renting a bike, available for around €20 ($22) per day. In Rovaniemi, booking Northern Lights tours on weekdays can save you up to 20% compared to weekend rates. For a taste of local life, visit theHakaniemi Market Hallin Helsinki for authentic Finnish foods and crafts.
| City | Monthly Pass (€) | Monthly Pass ($) | Monthly Pass (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Helsinki | 70 | 77 | 70 |
| Turku | 55 | 60 | 55 |
| Tampere | 59 | 65 | 59 |
| Oulu | 50 | 55 | 50 |
| Rovaniemi | 48 | 53 | 48 |
Finland hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, each offering a glimpse into the country's rich heritage. TheHelsinki Festival, held in August, is Finland's largest arts festival, featuring music, theater, and dance, with many events free of charge. TheRovaniemi Christmas Marketin December transforms the city into a festive wonderland, offering handmade crafts and traditional Finnish treats.
While Finnish is the official language, English is widely spoken in urban areas, making communication easier for travelers. Learning a few basic Finnish phrases can enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. In Helsinki, you'll find signage in both Finnish and Swedish, the country's second official language. In more rural areas like Lapland, English may be less common, so having a translation app can be helpful. Always greet with a smile and a friendly "Hei" (Hello) to make a positive impression.
sustainable travel has gained popularity in Finland. Many cities, including Helsinki and Turku, have invested in eco-friendly public transport and green spaces. Tourists are encouraged to use bicycles and electric scooters, widely available for rent. Additionally, Finland's commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its national parks, where visitors are urged to follow the "Leave No Trace" principles. This trend towards sustainability not only preserves the natural beauty but also enhances the travel experience by promoting responsible tourism.
Understanding local customs can enrich your visit to Finland. Sauna culture is an integral part of Finnish life, with many homes and accommodations featuring private saunas. It's customary to enjoy the sauna without clothing, though swimsuits are acceptable in public saunas. The concept of "sisu" — a unique Finnish term embodying determination and resilience — is deeply ingrained in the culture, reflecting the Finnish spirit of overcoming challenges with stoic perseverance.
Finland offers diverse job opportunities across its cities, catering to various industries. In **Helsinki**, the capital city, there is a strong demand for professionals in the technology and IT sectors. Companies like Nokia and Rovio have their headquarters here, making it a hub for tech enthusiasts. **Turku**, known for its maritime industry, offers opportunities in shipbuilding and logistics. The Port of Turku is a significant employer in the region, attracting workers with maritime expertise. **Oulu**, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of Europe, has a thriving tech scene with numerous startups and established firms seeking talent in software development and engineering.
Helsinki is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and festivals.
Rovaniemi offers stunning natural landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Turku, with its medieval castle and historical sites, is ideal for history enthusiasts.
Finland is generally very safe. Helsinki is particularly well-policed and tourist-friendly.
Rovaniemi and Iso-Syöte are popular for skiing and other winter activities.
Helsinki offers a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants and food markets.
Porvoo is known for its charming wooden houses and cobblestone streets.
Finland's enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a top travel destination. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of Helsinki, witnessing the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi, or delving into history in Turku, each city offers unique experiences. Travelers should plan their visit according to their interests, whether it's culture, nature, or cuisine.
Understanding the local customs, transportation options, and budget requirements will enhance your trip. Remember to explore both the popular cities and the hidden gems for a comprehensive Finnish experience. With its safety, scenic beauty, and cultural richness, Finland is sure to leave a lasting impression.
All information verified as of April 2026. Policies and costs may change — always verify with official sources before making decisions.
More about Finland:
Other guides you might like:
Rate this article
Arin Vale