Finland, known for its stunning natural beauty, is a land of vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and the Northern Lights. This Nordic country offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures and sophisticated urban experiences. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant culture of Helsinki, enjoying the tranquility of Finnish Lapland, or taking a sauna, which is an integral part of Finnish culture, there’s something for everyone. To start planning your trip, explore plan your trip to Finland and test your knowledge with a travel to Finland quiz. For more detailed information, visit the official tourism website: visitfinland.com.

Transportation

Public Transit

Finland’s public transportation system is efficient and well-developed, especially in urban areas. Helsinki’s public transit system, including buses, trams, a metro line, and commuter trains, is a convenient way to explore the capital. In other cities, buses are the main form of public transport. For longer distances, trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel across the country.

Taxis

Taxis in Finland are reliable and can be hailed on the street, ordered by phone, or through mobile apps. They are safe and operate on a regulated fare system, but fares can be high compared to other modes of transportation.

Driving

Driving is a great way to explore Finland’s scenic countryside. Traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) on highways. Note that headlights must be on at all times, and winter tires are mandatory during the winter months. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.

Attractions and Shopping

Shops in Finland are generally open from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and until 4 pm on Saturdays. Many are closed on Sundays. Museums and attractions have varying hours but are typically open from 10 am to 6 pm. Finnish culture does not include a siesta, so businesses stay open throughout the day. Dining times are early by European standards, with lunch around noon and dinner between 6 pm and 8 pm.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not customary in Finland. Service charges are included in the prices at restaurants and for taxi services. However, rounding up the bill is common.

Duty Free

Travelers from non-EU countries can shop tax-free in Finland if they spend over a certain amount in a single store. Look for stores displaying the “Tax-Free Shopping” logo and present your passport when making purchases to qualify.

Safety

Finland is one of the safest countries in the world. The emergency number is 112. While violent crime is rare, visitors should still take common precautions to protect against petty theft, especially in tourist areas and public transport.

Water & Food Quality

Tap water in Finland is of excellent quality and safe to drink. Food safety standards are high, ensuring that eating out is generally safe across the country.

Crime

Finland has a low crime rate. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and secure their belongings, particularly in busy areas.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Finland is of high quality. EU citizens should bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare at reduced costs. Non-EU visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance.

General Tips

Language

Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken, especially among younger Finns and in tourist areas, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors.

Currency

The currency in Finland is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including in taxis and small shops. ATMs are readily available.

Electrical Outlets

Finland uses the European standard electrical socket (Type C and F), with a voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz.

Weather

Finland experiences a continental climate in the south and an arctic climate in the north. Winters (November to March) can be cold, with temperatures often below 0°C (32°F), while summers (June to August) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The best time to visit depends on your activities: summer for hiking and enjoying the cities, and winter for experiencing the Northern Lights and winter sports.