Suggested length of stay
To fully appreciate Finland’s breathtaking natural scenery, on-the-go cities, and distinct culture, staying for at least a week is recommended. You can explore Helsinki’s museums and galleries, go hiking in Lapland’s untouched wilderness, or immerse yourself in the Finnish way of life. A week-long trip should provide ample opportunity to enjoy all these experiences. However, a longer stay will only enrich your adventure in this captivating country if you have more time.
Modes of transport
Road
Finland has right-handed traffic and a polite, stress-free driving culture. There’s a good network of petrol stations. Driving in Finland in the summer is a breeze, but it can be tricky in the winter if you don’t have prior experience. Roads get slippery and snow tyre are legally required from November to March. Headlights must be always used. Motorists in Finland should remain alert for elk and reindeer, which frequently wander onto roads and are most active at dusk and dawn.
Air
There are over 20 airports in Finland, and a handful of them have regular international flight services. The main gateway is Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) International Airport. The northernmost airport is in Ivalo in Lapland, approximately 250 kilometres above the Arctic Circle.
Rail
Finnish trains are spacious, comfortable and clean. The rail network stretches nationwide, from Helsinki to Kolari in Lapland. Trains are well-maintained and the scenery along the way is beautiful, especially in eastern Finland with its many lakes. For longer distances, travelling overnight in a sleeping car is recommended. Car carriers are also available. Kids will be happy to travel in the train’s play area.
By Bicycle
Bicycles are a good way to travel short distances. All cities and most towns have bikes for rent – Helsinki’s bike rental system is one of the most used in all of Europe. Remember: Finland stretches over 1,000 kilometres, so riding a bike from Helsinki to Lapland would take at least a few weeks.
Ferry
Finland has thousands of lakes and is surrounded by sea, so there are many boat services on offer. Try an old-fashioned steamboat on Lake Saimaa or hop on a sea cruiser for a trip to the Åland islands. You can also easily reach nearby countries – including Germany, Russia, Sweden and Estonia – on ferries and other passenger boats. Of course, the most environmentally friendly boating options are rowboats, canoes or kayaks. Be sure to try one when you’re in the Land of a Thousand Lakes!
Bus
Finland’s bus network is one of the most comprehensive in Europe, covering more than 90 per cent of public roads. If the rail network doesn’t reach your Finnish destination, a coach most likely will. Riding a coach is a good way to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Food
Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity and reliance on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Traditional dishes often include fish, berries, mushrooms, and root vegetables, focusing on hearty, warming meals that are perfect for the country’s cold winters. Some must-try Finnish dishes include salmon soup, meatballs with lingonberry sauce, Karelian pastries filled with rice porridge, and rye bread with butter and cheese. Finland also has a strong coffee culture, with coffee being a staple of daily life for many Finns.
Drinking water
Finland’s tap water is safe to drink.
Visas
Finland and many other European countries are part of the Schengen area, meaning you can enter the Faroe Islands without a visa.
Money
The currency of Finland is the euro.
Inoculations & health precautions
Health risks in Finland are broadly similar to those in Australia.
Embassy Contacts for Finland
Australian Honorary Consulate in Finland
Museokatu 25 B 23
00100 Helsinki Finland
Email: stockholm.reception@dfat.gov.au
Electricity
In Finland, the power plug sockets are of type F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Getting there
The best way to get to Finland from Australia is by flying. There are several routes with layovers in major cities such as London or Dubai.
Time Zone
Helsinki, Finland, Eastern European Summer Time UTC+3
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