Finland Travel Tips: Your Ultimate Guide

Finland is a country where enchanting wilderness meets cutting-edge design, and where you can soak in the tranquillity of a sauna one moment and chase the Northern Lights the next. Whether you're exploring the modern vibe of Helsinki, enjoying the serenity of Lapland, or experiencing Finnish culture and traditions, this Nordic nation offers countless memorable moments. Before you jet off, it’s important to have a few essential Finland travel tips to ensure your adventure is seamless and unforgettable.

This Finland travel guide covers everything you need to know, from must-see destinations to practical advice on spending money, navigating the country, and experiencing Finnish culture. Ready to discover what makes Finland so special? Let’s dive in!

Things to Do in Finland

From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural wonders, Finland offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveller. Here are some top things to do in Finland that should be on your list.

Explore Helsinki: The Capital of Cool

Helsinki, Finland’s dynamic capital, is the perfect starting point for your adventure. This city effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern design. Begin your exploration at Senate Square, where you'll find the neoclassical Helsinki Cathedral and historic architecture that transports you back in time.

Helsinki is also known for its cutting-edge design and art scenes. Head to the Design District, where local boutiques, galleries, and shops showcase Finland’s famous minimalist aesthetic. Don’t miss the Ateneum Art Museum or the iconic Kiasma contemporary art museum for a dose of culture. If you want to mix in a bit of nature, take a ferry to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spread over several islands, perfect for a day trip just off the city’s coast.

For relaxation, visit the Allas Sea Pool or a traditional Finnish sauna. Helsinki has a thriving sauna culture, and places like Löyly offer both the heat of a sauna and the cooling waters of the Baltic Sea. Afterward, unwind with a coffee in one of Helsinki’s cosy cafés — a ritual Finns hold dear.

Chase the Northern Lights in Lapland

For a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience, head to Lapland, Finland’s northernmost region, where the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) regularly dance across the winter sky. The best time to see them is between September and March, during the long, dark nights of the Arctic winter.

Lapland is also a playground for winter sports enthusiasts. Take part in dog-sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer safaris, or experience a true Arctic adventure by staying in a glass igloo and sleeping under the stars. In Rovaniemi, you can even visit Santa Claus Village and meet the big man himself — a perfect stop for families and those looking to cross the Arctic Circle.

Discover Finland’s National Parks

Nature is at the heart of Finnish life, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting some of the country’s 40 national parks. Just a short drive from Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park is an outdoor lover’s dream, with hiking trails that wind through dense forests and around serene lakes. It’s the perfect escape for those wanting a breath of fresh air without venturing too far from the city.

Further afield, Koli National Park in eastern Finland offers dramatic landscapes of forested hills and glistening lakes. If you’re visiting in the winter, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing; in the summer, hike the Ukko-Koli hill for stunning panoramic views of Lake Pielinen.

Embrace Sauna Culture

One of the most important Finland travel tips is to embrace the country’s unique sauna culture. With more than 2 million saunas across the country, you’ll never be far from a chance to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in this national pastime. From high-end saunas in the city to rustic, lakeside saunas in the countryside, taking a sauna is a quintessential Finnish experience.

For the full Finnish experience, alternate between sweating it out in the sauna and cooling off in a lake or the snow (yes, even in winter!). Public saunas like Löyly in Helsinki offer a stylish urban twist, while remote cabins in the countryside let you experience the more traditional, peaceful side of sauna life.

Money and Spending in Finland

When it comes to managing your money while travelling, Finland’s modern economy means you'll find cash or card in Finland works almost everywhere, but understanding how to spend efficiently is key.

Cash or Card in Finland?

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, even for small transactions, but it’s always useful to have cash. Whether you’re paying for a meal in a Helsinki café, a train ticket, or a souvenir in a remote village in Lapland, you’ll find cash and cards useful. Contactless payments are widely used, and most places, including markets and taxis, accept cards.

But it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash in euros (the official currency in Finland) for emergencies, particularly if you’re visiting rural areas or smaller shops. ATMs are easy to find throughout Finland, and withdrawing euros is simple if you need it.

For ease and convenience, the Travelex Money Card is a great option. You can preload the card with euros, lock in your exchange rate, and use it to pay in restaurants, shops, or for transport. It’s a secure, contactless way to manage your spending, and the card works wherever Mastercard prepaid is accepted, making it ideal for travelling through Finland.

Tipping in Finland

Tipping in Finland is not a widespread practice. Service charges are typically included in restaurant bills, so you’re not expected to leave extra money. If you do want to show your appreciation for excellent service, rounding up the bill or leaving a couple of euros is appreciated but not required.

For taxis, it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest euro, but drivers don’t expect tips. Similarly, in hotels, tipping porters or housekeeping staff is not expected. Overall, Finland has a relaxed attitude towards tipping, so you won’t feel pressured to leave extra unless you want to.

Buy Euros with a Travel Money Card

To make your trip to Finland as smooth as possible, consider using the Travelex Money Card. You can load it up with euros before you go, lock in your exchange rate, and use it for contactless payments throughout your journey. Whether you’re dining in a Helsinki restaurant, booking tours in Lapland, or withdrawing cash from an ATM, the Travelex Money Card is a secure and convenient way to manage your money on the go.

Travelling Around Finland

Finland’s efficient and modern transport system makes travelling between cities and through its wild landscapes easy and comfortable. Here are some tips for Finland travel and how best to get around.

By Train

Finland’s train network is fast, reliable, and covers much of the country. VR (the national railway company) operates regular services between cities like Helsinki, Tampere, Turku, and Rovaniemi. If you’re heading north to Lapland, consider taking one of the overnight sleeper trains for a unique and comfortable way to travel long distances.

Trains are clean and modern, with free Wi-Fi and dining cars on most long-distance routes. If you’re planning on doing a lot of train travel, booking tickets in advance can save you money, and using the VR mobile app makes it easy to manage your journeys.

By Bus

For those venturing into more rural areas where trains don’t go, buses are a great alternative. Onnibus is a popular budget bus service that offers routes across Finland. Buses are comfortable and affordable, and many offer free Wi-Fi on board.

In cities, local buses and trams are a great way to get around, especially in Helsinki. The public transport system is efficient, easy to navigate, and runs frequently.

By Car

If you prefer to explore Finland’s countryside and national parks at your own pace, renting a car is an excellent option. Finland’s roads are well-maintained, and driving through the scenic landscapes is a pleasure. However, if you’re driving in the winter months, be prepared for icy roads and ensure your rental car has winter tyres, which are mandatory from November to March.

By Bike

Cycling is popular in Finland, especially in cities like Helsinki and Turku, where dedicated bike lanes make it easy and safe to get around. Many cities have bike-sharing schemes, so you can rent a bike for a few hours and explore the city at your leisure.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Finland

Before you pack your bags and board your flight, here are a few Finland travel tips and practical pieces of advice to keep in mind.

Weather

Finland’s weather can be extreme, depending on when and where you visit. Winters are long and cold, especially in the north, with temperatures in Lapland often plunging to -30°C. If you’re visiting in winter, pack warm layers, a heavy-duty coat, thermal gloves, and winter boots.

Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging 20°C in the south, and the midnight sun offers nearly 24 hours of daylight during June and July. However, evenings can still be chilly, so packing a light jacket is always a good idea, even in summer.

Language

The official languages of Finland are Finnish and Swedish, but don’t worry if you don’t speak either — English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Finns are generally reserved but friendly, and most people will be happy to help if you need directions or advice.

Culture and Etiquette

Finnish people value privacy, politeness, and punctuality. Finns may come across as reserved at first, but they are very welcoming once you engage with them. Always greet people politely, and when in doubt, a simple “Hei” (hello) and “Kiitos” (thank you) will go a long way.

Sauna etiquette is also important. Many Finns take saunas nude, especially in single-gender saunas, but public saunas in cities often offer more privacy or allow swimsuits. Don’t be shy about trying it — saunas are a deeply ingrained part of Finnish culture and a great way to relax.

Order Your Euros with Travelex

Now that you’re ready for your Finnish adventure, it’s time to get your euros sorted. Buy euros online with Travelex and enjoy free home delivery on orders over £500 or pick them up from one of the many convenient locations across the UK, including most major airports. Get great rates and pay no commission when you buy online from Travelex.

Travelex Money Card

For a safe, convenient, and hassle-free way to manage your money while travelling, consider the Travelex Money Card. Load it with euros, lock in your exchange rate before you go, and use it for contactless payments or ATM withdrawals throughout Finland. Whether you're shopping in Helsinki or dining in Lapland, the Travelex Money Card keeps your funds secure. Get yours now from Travelex.

With these Finland travel tips, you’re well-prepared for an amazing journey through this beautiful country. Whether you’re hiking in national parks, relaxing in a sauna, or watching the Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. Safe travels!