Guide · 6 Places
Helsinki
Finland
Before You Go
May to September offers the best weather with temperatures from 15-22°C (59-72°F) and long days. June brings white nights with nearly 19 hours of daylight. Winter (December-February) is dark and cold (-5 to 0°C) but beautiful with Christmas markets and potential Northern Lights. Summer is peak season for exploring the archipelago.
Visa
Check requirementsEU/EEA citizens can enter freely. US, Canadian, Australian, and many other nationals can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area. Check migri.fi for requirements.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the main gateway, 18km north of city center.
By Ferry: Viking Line and Tallink Silja connect to Stockholm, Tallinn, and St. Petersburg.
By Train: VR trains connect to other Finnish cities and St. Petersburg, Russia.
Language
CommunicationFinnish and Swedish are official languages. English is widely spoken, especially among younger generations and in service industries.
Currency
Money mattersEuro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere - Finland is one of the most cashless countries in Europe. Exchange rate varies; check current EUR/USD rates.
Getting Around
Local transportTrams: Vintage trams cover city center efficiently. Single ticket: €3.
Metro: Two lines serve suburbs and eastern districts.
Buses: Comprehensive network throughout the city.
HSL Travel Card: Works on all public transit.
Bikes: Good bike infrastructure, city bikes available in summer.
Ferries: Connect to archipelago islands, included in HSL tickets.
From the Airport
Arrival infoTrain (Ring Rail Line): Direct to Central Station (30 min, €5).
Finnair City Bus: To Central Station (30 min, €7.50).
Bus #615: Local bus to Central Station (45 min, €5).
Taxi: Around €45-60 to city center (30 min).