finland tour budget

How to visit Finland on a budget (the only guide you’ll ever need)

Apr 26, 2022 • 10 min read

Take in a spectacular view of the northern lights in Finland © Anton Petrus / Getty Images

Let’s face it: Finland is expensive – unless you happen to be coming from Sweden or Norway, that is. But with some careful budgeting and clever planning, you can have an incredible trip that doesn’t cost a fortune. The good news is that many of the things that attract travelers to Finland in the first place are free or cost very little: From foraging walks to Northern Lights shows, chilly dips in the Baltic to lakefront saunas. 

From where to stay and eat, to getting around and sightseeing, here we give the inside scoop on how to see Finland without breaking the bank.

Flying is the cheapest way to get to Finland

Flying is overall the cheapest, easiest way to reach Finland, and there are plenty of low-cost options, especially if you arrive in Helsinki, which has direct flights to Europe, North America and Asia. Flights with European budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet are often a steal in the low and shoulder seasons, especially if you aren’t fussy about specific days and times. And it’s also possible to snap up deals with bigger airlines like Finnair , Norwegian and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). Look out for their economy deals and travel with minimal luggage. The more flexible you are, the greater the chance you have of grabbing a bargain.    

Consider flying into somewhere other than Helsinki

Helsinki often seems the obvious choice, but it might be worth considering flying to another airport if you’re heading straight off or taking an internal flight. If Lapland is your goal, you can fly direct to Rovaniemi instead with a number of European airlines, including budget ones like Ryanair and easyJet, though often only during the winter season (November to March). Ryanair also operates a direct flight from London Stansted to Tampere , a handy gateway for the great forest-rimmed lakes of Finnish Lakeland .

Travel in the shoulder season to save money

Everyone raves about July being the best month to visit Finland, but you’ll dodge the crowds and save plenty by avoiding school holidays and visiting in the shoulder season instead. With everything in blossom, the rain easing off and warmer, lighter days on the horizon, May can be glorious on the Baltic coast (try the Åland islands for white-sand beaches and cycling), in the Finnish Lakeland and in cities like Helsinki. 

Early June – before the madness of midsummer hits – is a good bet too. Or come in September for an inexpensive city break, country escape or hike in one of Finland’s national parks before the darker, colder days of winter creep in.  The flipside? Some accommodation, sights and restaurants only open during the peak summer months of July and August. But if you don’t mind things quieter, shoulder seasons are great for economizing. 

You can visit Lapland on a budget – if you do the work yourself

It’s the number one must-do on every child’s wishlist, but a trip to see Santa in the frozen wonderland of Lapland can make a massive dent in your wallet – especially if you go for an expensive package. All the fun winter sports you come to the Arctic to try – from snowmobiling to skiing and dogsledding – come with a price tag.  

However, go it alone (organizing your own flights and transport and simple lodgings) and it can be doable on a budget. The trick is to avoid the Christmas rush and school holidays. Come in November, January or March when rates dip and you’ll still find plenty of festive sparkle, snow, reindeer and the big jolly dude in his grotto. 

Few travelers consider the Arctic in fall, but September in Lapland is beautiful for the ruska (autumn foliage). The fells are a riot of russets and crimsons and the beech forests glow gold. If you want to glimpse the Northern Lights on a budget, try autumn or spring instead of winter, when the odds are actually better and accommodation is cheaper.  

Stay in a hostel (and book a dorm room)

If you’re traveling alone, hostels tend to be the best value. Figure on paying around €40 ($44) for a dorm bed. What the hostels sacrifice in style, they make up for in comfort and facilities – most have kitchens (handy for whipping up a quick snack or meal to save on dining out), shared lounges and, if you’re in luck, saunas. 

The Finnish Youth Hostel Association (SRM) runs a network of around 50 hostels, with everything from contemporary city digs to country villas on wooded lakeshores. They are affiliated with Hostelling International (HI), so it’s worth becoming a member for a 10% discount.

Or simply sleep in the wild 

In the wilder reaches of the country, there are some excellent campgrounds. And if you don’t fancy sleeping under canvas, many offer cozy little cabins for as little as €40 ($44) a night. If you’re striking out on foot into one of the national parks in the remote north or east of the country, even better: You can stay the night in one of Finland’s free wilderness huts for a proper at-one-with-nature experience. Off grid and as basic as can be, these little log cabins are the backcountry dream. 

Jokamiehenoikeus (everyman’s right) is music to the ears of outdoor lovers on a budget. The freedom to roam means you can pitch your tent pretty much wherever you fancy, while respecting the privacy of others and the landscape, naturally. If you go down the wild camping route, a few simple rules of thumb apply: Camp high, camp remote, stay only a night or two and leave no trace. You’ll even find lake beaches that are aimed at the wild camper, with toilets, barbecue areas and swimming spots.

Rent your own digs if you’re traveling in a large group

If you’re with family or friends, you might find it works out cheaper (and more fun) to rent your own room or holiday home, either through Airbnb or the Finnish network Lomarengas . The latter has a cracking selection of cottages all over the country – from Lapland log chalets to lakefront cottages with their own beach, rowboat and sauna. The cost breaks down to be quite reasonable if there’s a group of you.

Book a hotel at the weekend or in summer to save money

Hotels in Finland are often geared firmly towards business travelers. Contrary to what you might expect, rates actually plummet by 40% or so at weekends and during the July summer holidays, making this a great time to snap up a deal in fancier places. 

Get around on the bus 

Punctual, inexpensive and rarely full, Finland’s long-distance buses cover a much bigger network than the trains and are a great way to get around if you don’t feel like renting your own wheels. They are by far and away the cheapest way to travel from city to city.  Departures from major towns are frequent, but less so at weekends, so check your timing. Slower vakiovuoro (regular) services are cheaper than pikavuoro (express) buses. For routes, timetables and tickets, visit Matkahuolto .

Onnibus operates budget intercity routes in double-decker buses. Most start in Helsinki and can be considerably cheaper than standard fares if booked well in advance.

Or if you need a car, book ahead

If you’re heading into the epic wilderness of the north and east of the country, where all signs of civilization fizzle out and you are alone with the forest and lakes and reindeer, realistically you are going to need a car. Book in advance for the best deals. Day rates can be astronomical so it works out cheaper to hire a car for an entire weekend or week. Try a cost comparison site like Kayak . Otherwise, apps like Carpool Finland and Kyydit are great if you’re willing to rideshare.

Eat a big breakfast and lunch

Finns are big on breakfast and most hotels ( even hostels, for an extra cost) serve a generous buffet, with plenty of coffee, porridge and fruits, dense rye bread, eggs and cold cuts. Fill up properly to fuel an entire morning of activities. 

It’s much cheaper to eat out at lunchtime than in the evening in Finland. Look out for cafes and restaurants serving all-you-can-eat buffets for between €10 ($11) and €15 ($16.50), where you can load up on salads, soups and day specials. And watch what you drink. Alcohol quickly notches up on the bill, with a single beer costing around €6 ($6.60). Thankfully tap water here is a pleasure to drink.  

If you have access to a shared kitchen or camping stove, you can buy supplies for picnics and basic meals at grocery stores, bakeries or, even better, at the ​​kauppahalli (covered market hall). The ones in Helsinki , Tampere and Turku are in gorgeous art nouveau buildings. Finland’s markets are also great for grazing, with stalls and cafes dishing out light meals and snacks from kimchi to gourmet rye-bread sandwiches.

Forage for your supper 

Finland is a forager’s dream and everyman’s right means you can pick freely providing it’s for your own consumption. Come in summer and you can feast on luscious berries, from wild strawberries, lingonberries, raspberries and, up in the Arctic, the creamy-sweet, amber-hued cloudberries the Finns are so crazy about. Mushrooms pop up from late August to October, sending the Finns diving into the woods, armed with baskets, to find chanterelles and penny buns. Cobbling together a meal with what you’ve found for free in the wild is really quite special.

Get out into nature

There’s no need to spend a fortune in Finland because, as any local will tell you, nature gives you all the best things for free. One way to see Finland on a tight budget is to go off grid and back to nature. Embrace the elements in true Finnish style on long hikes to forests and fells in one of the country’s national parks. Wild camp and swim in the river or sea. Cook over a campfire as the midnight sun shines or gaze up to Arctic skies in winter for the best free show on earth: the Northern Lights.

Save money on sights and attractions 

Saving money on the city sights involves a bit of cunning planning. If you’re up for seeing the capital, the Helsinki Card is a must. Valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours, the pass covers all the big-hitter sights and attractions and public transport, and gets you discounts on shops and restaurants. 

Helsinki’s museums often have one day a week or month when there is reduced or free entry. The Design Museum , for instance, is free on the last Tuesday of the month between 4pm and 8pm, and Kunsthalle Helsinki is free on the first Wednesday of the month between 6pm and 8pm. See the MyHelsinki website for a comprehensive list. In Tampere , many museums are free on Fridays from 3pm to 6pm.

And if you want to save on sauna entry, swing over to Sompasauna . Run by a group of volunteers, this wood-burning, self-service sauna, just east of the center, is right by the sea and there’s an open grill where you can cook. 

One way of getting a handle on Finland’s cities is to hook onto a free guided walking tour. Eco-friendly Green Cap Tours runs these in a number of locations in Finland, including Helsinki, Rovaniemi, Levi and Turku.

Daily costs

• Dorm bed in a hostel: €25-35 ($27.50-38.50)
• Basic room for two: €80-100 ($88-110)
• Holiday cottage: €80-150 ($88-166)
• Museum entry: €10-14 ($11-15)
• Car hire: €25-50 ($28-55)
• Public transport ticket: €2.80 ($3)
• Bike hire: €10-20 ($11-22)
• Kayak rental: €30-60 ($33-66)
• Two-hour husky sled ride: €90–140 ($99-155)
• Coffee: €3-6 ($3.30-6.60)
• Sandwich: €5-7 ($5.50-7.70)
• Piece of cake: €6-8 ($6.60-8.80)
• Lunch buffet: €10-15 ($11-16.50)
• Main course in a restaurant: €18-30
• Dinner for two: €60-100 ($66-110)
• Beer at the bar: €6-9 ($6.60-9.90)

You might also like:

Amateur photographers discover new type of northern lights in Finland Icelanders urged to hug a tree for five minutes to help with isolation Copenhagen’s new Happiness Museum is exactly what the world needs right now

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

May 6, 2022 • 8 min read

From design-savvy cities to endless forests, Finland is easy to explore by public transport. Here’s our guide to the best ways to get around in Finland.

Mar 22, 2024 • 4 min read

Jan 5, 2024 • 10 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 27, 2023 • 5 min read

Sep 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 4, 2023 • 11 min read

Aug 3, 2023 • 7 min read

Jan 3, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 10, 2022 • 7 min read

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Finland Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Due to its out-of-the-way location and the fact that Finland is expensive, many travelers skip visiting the country when they explore Europe .

But this is a mistake.

Finland has a lot to offer and there are plenty of ways to save money here. I think it’s one of the most underrated destinations in Europe — especially if you love the outdoors!

This travel guide to Finland can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this amazing nation.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Finland

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in bath.

1. Explore the Salla Reindeer Park

This park in the Arctic Circle is where you can feed reindeer, pet huskies, take a canoe trip, do some hiking, or try snowshoeing and skiing. There are reindeer competitions (reindeer are an important part of the indigenous culture here), husky sleigh rides, and midnight canoe trips when the sun is out all night. In the winter months you can experience the northern lights as you hike through the forest at night using snowshoes. If hiking isn’t your thing, there are nighttime reindeer sleigh rides for those hoping to see the northern lights. You can try out dogsledding and steer your very own team of huskies too. Admission to the park is 10 EUR (tours have additional costs).

2. See the Northern Lights in Lapland

This is hands-down one of the best things to do in the country. In the northern part of Lapland, you can see the northern lights shining almost every night when the sky is clear, whereas in southern Finland they are only visible 10-20 nights each year. Lapland is within the Arctic Circle so there is essentially 24 hours of darkness each day from November until January. There are plenty of guided tours you can join, though you can also venture out on your own to save money too if you’re on a budget. A three-hour snowmobile tour to see the northern lights costs around 155 EUR per person. September-April is the best time to see them.

3. Visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi

This Christmas amusement park is great for anyone traveling with kids. You can meet “Santa,” do snow-shoeing safaris, feed reindeer, and learn about Finnish Christmas traditions through the ages. The adorable village includes Santa’s official office, his Christmas house, the main Santa Claus Post Office, and the house of Mrs. Claus and Santa’s reindeer. Adults can enjoy a variety of dining options ranging from upscale restaurants to fun bars. The Ice Bar is rebuilt each year and is full of snow and ice sculptures. Admission is free and the village is open all year.

4. Explore Helsinki

Historic, small, filled with green space, and set on the Baltic Sea, Helsinki is a scenic city that doesn’t get huge tourist crowds like other European capitals. Visit the six islands that make up Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (which dates to the late 1700s) or get your history fix at the National Museum of Finland. If you’re feeling the need for some relaxation, stop by one of Helsinki’s many saunas. And for a unique experience, book the sauna room on the Skywheel Helsinki Ferris wheel. The city is filled with world-class museums and restaurants and is perfect for a few days of exploring.

5. Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo at the SnowHotel

Located in Lapland, everything in the SnowHotel is made of ice — including your bed (you get warm furs and sleeping bags, don’t worry)! The hotel is rebuilt each year from snow and ice, so the appearance is constantly changing. It sleeps up to 70 guests, and there are additional glass igloos that make for excellent star gazing. Enjoy sauna experiences, search for the northern lights, and plenty of ice art. There’s also an ice restaurant here too which serves local cuisine on frozen plates. The bar serves tasty craft cocktails in glasses made from ice too. A basic room with a double bed costs 200 EUR per night. You can also stay in smaller glass igloos as well.

Other Things to See and Do in Finland

1. go ice climbing.

Finland is known for its impressive ice formations, including frozen waterfalls and tall ice walls inside deep canyons or valleys. Companies like Bliss Adventure can outfit you with the right gear and introduce you to ice climbing in places like Tajukangas Falls and Korouoma Canyon (Korouoma is the most popular place to ice climb in the country). Prices vary but plan to spend around 100 EUR for a short tour. If you’re not afraid of heights and if you’re a bit of a thrill-seeker, try rappelling from the top of the Tajukangas Ice Falls (it’s about 30 meters high).

2. See Pakasaivo Lake

This lake in the north of Finland was once a place where indigenous Sámi worshipped. The 60-meter-deep lake is a meromictic lake, which means the water on the surface and at the bottom never mix (normal lakes mix at least once a year when the water at the surface cools off and becomes denser, causing it to sink). This creates an oxygen-free environment where the contents at the bottom are perfectly preserved. The area is known as the Hell of Lapland as people used to believe there was another realm under the lake. There is also a giant’s kettle here (a deep glacial pothole) that people believed tunneled all the way to hell.

3. Tour the King’s Road

This route is an old postal route running between Bergen, Norway to the former Finnish capital of Turku, and then across Finland to St. Petersburg, Russia. The 330-kilometer (205-mile) trail dates to the 15th century and it follows the southern coast of Finland. It’s accessible all year with well-paved roads and plenty of scenic stops along the way. You’ll take in manor houses, medieval churches, tiny villages, and endless scenic countryside. You can do the entire Finnish route in a day via car, though 2-3 days is better so you can make plenty of stops. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also cycle the route in around one week.

4. Visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine

Lampivaara Hill is known for its amethysts (a type of purple quartz). The amethysts in this region were created 6 million years ago and on a mine tour, you can learn more about this precious mineral and then get a chance to dig around and find your own to take home as a souvenir. The mine is part of Pyhä-Luosto National Park and is located in northern Finland 90 minutes north of Rovaniemi. Tour prices vary from 35-66 EUR per person and include transportation. If you have your own vehicle, you can visit and tour the mine for 19 EUR.

5. Explore Raanua Wildlife Park

This is the northernmost nature reserve in the world and a fun place to visit with kids. There are over 50 different animal species here, including the only polar bears in Finland as well as lynx, wolves, and brown bears. Because it’s a predominantly outdoor park, you’re able to see the animals in a much more natural habitat than most zoos. There is no artificial lighting or indoor enclosures so you need to bring your own flashlight if visiting later in the day during the winter (when the sun sets early). Admission is 23.50 EUR.

6. See the Old Church of Sodankylä

Located in Lapland, this church is Finland’s best-preserved wooden church. The steeple-less church was built from timber in 1689 and was commissioned by King Charles XI of Sweden, who paid for it. The exterior and interior are incredibly well-preserved, with a dark timber interior and exterior that resembles more of a log cabin than a traditional European church. In the summer, religious services and weddings are often held here. Admission is free but be sure to dress respectfully.

7. Learn Finnish cultural history

The ethnographic Museum of Local History in Kemijärvi showcases what life was like in rural Finland at the turn of the 20th century. The main building is home to a traditional farmhouse and living quarters, maid’s chamber, daughter-in-law’s chamber, and living room so show you exactly what life was like for the Finnish working class. In addition to the house, the grounds include a granary, a workshop, a smoke sauna, a barn, and a stable that you can wander and explore. Admission is 10 EUR.

8. Go hiking

There are almost 40 national parks in Finland, each with hiking trails and camping sites. In the winter, they make for great places to cross-country ski or go snowshoeing. Nuuksio National Park is only 45 minutes from Helsinki and is filled with calm lakes, green forests, and rocky trails. Archipelago National Park, in Southwestern Finland, has more islands than any archipelago in the world. With its calm islets and colorful villages, canoeing or kayaking this park is a must. If you want to get off the beaten path, be sure to visit Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park in the north, where you can hike and stay in traditional villages. Additionally, wild camping is free in all the national parks as Finland has ‘freedom to roam’ laws ( Jokamiehen Oikeudet ) that enable you to wild camp in national parks if you are quiet and respectful.

9. Explore the Harbor Islands

There are over 330 islands that make up the Helsinki city archipelago. Suomenlinna is the easiest to reach with regular municipal ferries (you can take a ferry directly from Market Square). Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari are two other islands worth visiting, as they used to be military bases closed off to the public (during the Viking era, Vallisaari was used as an outpost that would light a fire whenever a Viking raid was coming so people could prepare). The islands have since been reclaimed by nature and turned into parks dotted with abandoned fortifications. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour; there are a ton to choose from, with most lasting 1-2 hours and costs around 25 EUR.

10. Compete in the Air Guitar World Championship

Held every year at the Oulu Music Video Festival, this competition started out as a joke in 1996 but has evolved into a major festival that attracts thousands. If you happen to be in Oulu in the month of August, be sure to check out this quirky competition. Anyone can enter with just a 35 EUR entry fee. Even if you don’t want to compete you should definitely attend if you can — it’s one of the most unique festivals in the world!

11. Wander the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Located north of Helsinki on Seurasaari Island, the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum allows you to get up close to numerous traditional Finnish buildings. They aren’t replicas either; the buildings were collected from all over the country and physically moved here. There are houses, cottages, outbuildings, a windmill, and more. Opened in 1909, guided tours are available daily during the summer. Admission is 10 EUR

12. Go skiing

Levi is Finland’s most beloved ski resort located in Lapland (it’s the location of the Alpine World Cup Race). There are 43 slopes here for all abilities and over 200 kilometers (124 miles) of trails for cross-country skiing. There’s even a dedicated area for snowboarders, plus dogsledding and a reindeer park. A one-day pass costs 49 EUR. Pyhä-Luosto National Park, Saariselkä, Kuusamo, and Jyväskylä are other excellent places to ski too.

13. See Turun Linna (Turku Castle)

Turun Linna (Turku Castle) is located in Turku on the Aura River. The castle dates back to the 1200s and is one of the oldest buildings in the country. It helped defend the region from Russia during the Middle Ages, though much of the castle was destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt. Inside are two large dungeons as well as ornate banquet halls that are often used for municipal events. Tours take place all summer (June to August) and admission is 12 EUR.

14. Learn about the Sámi

The Sámi are the only indigenous people in the EU. Their language and culture are endangered, and so they’re governed by an autonomous government in Inari (Finland’s largest municipality). They’re famously known for their reindeer herding, which is at the core of their culture. Visit communities in Inari, Enontekiö, and Utsjoki to see Sámi culture up close. In Inari, don’t miss the Siida indoor and outdoor museum where you’ll learn about culture, art, and nature through interactive exhibits. But if you want to really spend time with the Sámi, come in spring when most of the Sami markets, concerts, and dances take place all over Northern Lapland. VisitLapland.com has a comprehensive list of activities and tours for getting to know the Sami people, including a visit to a traditional reindeer farm.

Finland Travel Costs

Finland has “freedom to roam” laws that enable free wild camping all around the country for those with a tent. If you’d prefer to stay in a campground with amenities, expect to pay 14-18 EUR for a basic tent plot for two people without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – A budget hotel with a private bathroom starts at 80-120 EUR during the peak summer season. In the off-season, budget rooms start at 65 EUR.

On Airbnb, private rooms start at 40 EUR (though they average double that). If you’re looking for an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 75 EUR, though prices usually average over 100 EUR. Book early for the best deals.

Food – Finnish cuisine leans heavily on fish, meat (specifically pork), and hearty vegetables like potatoes. Reindeer is commonly eaten as well as wild game like deer and moose. Smoked salmon and smoked or pickled herring are also popular dishes. Like their Scandinavian neighbors, Finns also enjoy dark bread and cheeses, usually as part of an open-faced sandwich (these are the go-to breakfast choice).

Overall, food in Finland is expensive. Your average casual restaurant charges around 13 EUR for a meal while fast food (think McDonald’s) is 9 EUR. For a three-course meal with table service, expect to pay at least 40-80 EUR.

Pizza costs around 8-10 EUR for a large while Thai or Chinese food costs 10-15 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out while in Helsinki, I suggest Ravintola Aino for good Finnish food (try the reindeer). Dishes cost between 50-62 EUR but are incredibly tasty!

Beer costs 7 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 4 EUR. Bottled water is 1.70 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost between 50-65 EUR per week for basic staples like vegetables, bread, pasta, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Finland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do free activities like visiting the free museums, hitting the beach, and relaxing in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add 10-15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for some meals, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting museums, skiing, or taking a guided tour of Suomenlinna Fortress.

On a “luxury” budget of 290 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car to explore, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Finland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Finland isn’t cheap. Everything here is expensive due to high taxes and lots of imports. Fortunately, there are ways to save money if you know where to look. Here are my best money-saving tips for Finland:

• Drink the tap water – The tap water here is some of the cleanest in the world and will save you from buying new water bottles all the time (and it cuts down waste too)! LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe.
• Stay with a local for free – Couchsurfing connects you with a local who can host you for free. You may have to sleep on a couch, but you’ll get to make a new friend and get tons of insider information about the country.
• Grocery shop – Buy basic staples like bread, meat, and cheese for breakfast or for a quick lunch on the go. It’s not glamorous, but by cooking your own meals you’ll save a ton of money, enabling you to eventually splurge on some great dinners.
• Take a free tour – Green Cap Tours offer daily free walking tours around Helsinki. You get to see the main sights while interacting with an expert guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip at the end!
• Get a Helsinki Card – There’s a lot to see in the city and paying 10-15 EUR per attraction adds up. This tourism card grants you free admission to the main sights (as well as access to the hop-on/hop-off bus) for 50 EUR (for a 24-hour pass). You can also get a 48-hour pass for 63 EUR or a 72-hour pass for 74 EUR. It includes discounts on some restaurants as well. For an additional charge, you can add free public transit as well.
• Rideshare – If you want to save money on transportation around the country, there are numerous apps like Kyydit and Carpool World that can help. They’ll allow you to connect with drivers looking for extra passengers. While it isn’t free, it might be cheaper (and more convenient) than taking a bus or train.
• Hitchhike – Hitchhiking isn’t super common here, however, it’s definitely possible and quite safe. Just use common sense and check Hitchwiki for specific tips and advice.

Where to Stay in Finland

Hostels can be found in a few of the larger cities around the country. Here are my recommended places to stay throughout the country:

• Hostel Diana Park (Helsinki)
• Eurohostel Helsinki (Helsinki)
• Dream Hostel Tampere (Tampere)
• Wherever Boutique Hostel (Rovaniemi)
• Laivahostel S/S Bore (Turku)

How to Get Around Finland

Public transportation – Helsinki is the only city in Finland with a tram and metro system, though other cities and towns have public bus networks. They usually depart every 10-15 minutes with one-way tickets starting at 2.80 EUR.

Bus – Buses are the main form of intercity travel in Finland. A bus from Helsinki to Turku takes 2-2.5 hours and costs 10-15 EUR while the two-hour journey to Tampere is around 8 EUR. You can even take the bus from Helsinki to Rovaniemi (Lapland) for 54 EUR (it’s a 13-hour ride).

Matkahuolto is the main bus company. Use matkahuolto.fi/en to plan your journey. OnniBus is another intercity bus service. Prices are pretty consistent with Matkahuolto but fares can be up to 50% off if you book in advance rather than at the last minute.

Train – Trains are an excellent way to get around Finland and you rarely need to make a reservation ahead of time (you can book online at vr.fi). Trains are slightly more expensive than the bus but they are much more comfortable. Helsinki to Turku costs about 21 EUR for the two-hour trip, while Helsinki to Tampere starts from 20 EUR (and it’s also around two hours).

If you wait until the last minute, you can often find “saver deals” listed on the website (typically the night before). For example, at the time of writing this, last-minute fares for both the routes mentioned above are less than 9 EUR. So, generally, you can get them around 50% off the normal price if you’re flexible.

Bicycle – Finland is incredibly bike-friendly. All cities have bike lanes and there are endless paths with very few hills. There’s a bicycle rental service in almost every town, with prices starting from 15 EUR per day. You can often get discounts for multi-day or weekly rentals. For example, Bicyclean Helsinki has city bikes from 19 EUR per day while a week’s rental is 80 EUR.

Flying – Finnair is the main domestic airline in Finland, with fares between most destinations costing less than 100 EUR when booked in advance. Expect to pay double that for last-minute flights. You can pretty much fly anywhere in the country in around 90 minutes or less.

Flights from Helsinki to nearby Stockholm, Sweden or Oslo, Norway are also quite affordable, costing around 75 EUR (one way) when booked early.

Car rental – Cars can be rented for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must be at least 20, have had their license for at least one year, and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Finland

The best time to visit Finland is largely based on what you want to do. If you want to experience Lapland at its peak awesomeness, come in December or January. Lapland is a wintery dream world in December due to the holiday decorations, Christmas markets, and the northern lights. Keep in mind it gets extremely cold in Finland during this time, no matter where you are in the country. The average daily temperature in the winter is -8°C (17°F).

Spring and autumn are the shoulder seasons and temperatures are still low. The average daily high in April is 2°C (37°F), while in October it’s 5°C (41°F). Both seasons are beautiful, though. In spring, everything is in full bloom; in autumn, the fall colors come out.

Summer is full of activities all around Finland, especially in Helsinki. With longer days (in summer, the sun won’t set until after 10:30pm) and warmer temperatures, Finnish people love enjoying the change in season. Parks and beaches are full and there are festivals all the time. The country is very lively. The average high in the south of the country is 15°C (64-72°F), however, so you’ll still want to pack warm clothes if you plan to visit Lapland, as temps up there will be cooler.

How to Stay Safe in Finland

Finland is super safe and the risk of violent crime here is incredibly low. Pick-pocketing can occur in Helsinki on public transpiration and at busy bus and train stations but even that is rare. Simply leave your valuables at home and be mindful of your surroundings while you’re out and about. Do that and you should be perfectly fine.

Be careful when using ATMs as credit card skimming is on the rise when using outdoor ATMs.

Scams here are rare, but, if you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid on this blog post .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). You can read specific tips on one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are rare, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Your biggest concern in most areas is actually moose. Be careful when driving!

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Finland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Finland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Finland and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hostels in Helsinki

The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Helsinki

How to Spend Three Days in Helsinki

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

How to Visit Finland on a Budget

Finland is, overall, one of the more expensive European countries to visit (unless you’re coming from Norway or Sweden). You need to plan carefully to get the best value for your money. It is possible to have an amazing trip on a budget! There are lots of free activities and attractions in Finland. For example, there are many beautiful lakes and forests. You can also visit museums, castles, and churches.

Here’s my budget guide to Finland to help save you money on your trip!

If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , or Pinterest .

This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.

Most people get to Finland by flying, which is also the most affordable.

There are many low-cost airlines flying to Europe, North America, and Asia. If you arrive in Helsinki, there are direct flights to Europe, Canada, and Asia. You can fly with European budget airlines like Easyjet and Ryanair, or with larger airlines like Finnair, SAS, and Norwegian. We flew from Newark to Helsinki (and then to Rovaniemi) with Finnair and had an awesome flight. Look out for their cheap deals and travel with minimal baggage. (Be sure to check out my guide for finding cheap flights.) If you can be flexible with your travel dates, that will help increase your chances of getting a bargain.

Helsinki might not be the cheapest airport to fly into.

Most people fly directly into Helsinki because it’s the obvious choice (and to be honest, it’s where we flew into). However, if you’re not spending time in Helsinki and heading directly north to Lapland, then flying directly to Rovaniemi might be a more affordable option.

Travel during the shoulder season to save some money.

This is true for most destinations. July as the center of the summer is a great time to visit Finland but can be pretty expensive. The other time of the year to avoid is December. Since Rovaniemi is near Santa Claus Village, many families visit to get into the holiday spirit. May is a great time to visit Finland. There are fewer tourists and the weather is still nice. You will avoid the crowds and save money by visiting during the shoulder season. If you want to visit in winter to enjoy the snow (like us) then visiting in January is great! All of our ‘group tours’ ended up being private tours since it’s not a common time to visit, we still got to enjoy the snow, and there was no line to visit Santa!

However, if you plan ahead, you can get great deals on flights and accommodation. Be sure to avoid the Christmas rush – everyone wants to see Santa in December. We traveled at the end of January and there was NO ONE in line to see Santa, it was awesome! There’s also plenty of snow on the ground, reindeer wandering, and winter activities to enjoy!

Fall is also a great time to visit Finland. The colors are amazing, especially if you go to Lapland. You will see the northern lights during the night, and you can also enjoy the beauty of the area during the day.

Stay in a hostel (and book a dorm bed).

This is true for any destination that you’re visiting. Hostels are great for solo travelers because they offer cheap accommodation and a communal atmosphere. You can cook your own meals, hang out with other guests and meet new people. Most hostels also have a kitchen, lounge area, and sauna. (Full disclosure, we did not book a hostel, but it is always a top way to save money while traveling!).

There’s actually a network of around 50 youth hostels across Finland, it’s called the Finnish Youth Hostel Association (SRM). If you plan on using hostels in the future, you can become a member of Hostelling International (HI) for an additional 10% discount. Staying in hostels is a great way to visit Finland on a budget!

Simply sleep in the woods.

There are plenty of great camping options in Finland. Some of them are very expensive, but others are free. There are also a few nice cabins available for rent. These cabins are usually located in the wilderness areas of Finland. They are often quite simple, but still provide a comfortable place to spend the night.

One of the things we loved about Finland is Jokamiehenoikeus – or everyman’s right. Basically, you’re allowed to walk, hike, and tent wherever you want as long as you don’t damage anything and respect people’s privacy. You’re supposed to stay only a night or two and leave no trace. You can pick berries in the summer as long as you don’t sell them. This was so impressive to us Americans who have private property and don’t like anyone on their property. Since we traveled in winter, we did not partake in either of these but if we were traveling in the warmer months it would be quite the experience!

If you’re traveling in a group, rent a house for cheaper accommodation!

Another tip that is true for any destination! If you’re traveling with family or friends, renting a place together could save money and make it more fun. You can find accommodation through VRBO or the Finnish rental site Lomarengas, which has a range of cottages across Finland. Prices vary depending on location, size, and facilities. It’s one of the best ways to save money when visiting Finland on a budget.

Save money by booking a hotel during the week!

I was surprised to learn this from our guide in Helsinki, but hotels are usually geared towards business travelers. Rates drop by about 40% at weekends and during the summer holidays, making this an ideal time to book a room in fancier hotels. This is something (at least to my knowledge) that is unique to Finland!

Take the bus – it’s reliable and cheap

Finland’s bus network covers a lot more ground than its train network. Buses are often cheaper than trains, and there are fewer restrictions on when you can board them. There are also many more departures per hour, making it easier to plan your trip. You can buy tickets online, but it’s usually easiest to buy them at the bus station. Check out Finavia’s website for schedules and prices.

Onnibus runs budget intercity bus services in Finland. These are usually cheaper than regular fares if booked well in advance. Onnibus also offers an app called Onnibus Passport that allows you to book your trip online and pay using your smartphone. (Fun story, we tried to book our tickets in person and we were actually not allowed to, we had to use our phone!) We used Onnibus during our day trip to Porvoo from Helsinki . It’s a hidden gem for traveling around Finland on a budget.

If you need a car, reserve one well in advance of your trip.

Another tip for most places in Europe (especially if you need an automatic car like me!) If you’re heading into the less-populated areas of Finland, you’ll need a car – there are no Ubers or Lyfts to get you around. Book ahead for the best deals. You might also consider renting a car for a few days at a time, depending on where you are in the country, instead of for the whole vacation. For example, we split our time between Helsinki and Rovaniemi – we wouldn’t need a car in Helsinki so we could just book it for our time in Rovaniemi. Apps like Carpool Finland and KYYDIT are great if you’re willing to share your ride. Otherwise, apps like Uber and Lyft are great options in the more populated areas of the country..

Fill up at breakfast!

Breakfast is a very important meal for Finns. If you’re staying at a hotel, chances are you’ll get a hearty breakfast for free. I was completely overwhelmed every morning by the breakfast spread provided by our hotels. Our breakfasts typically consisted of a buffet with porridge, fruit, eggs, cheese, lots of coffee, and even fish! You can also buy a full breakfast at a café for about €10.

As is the same in most countries, lunchtime meals are a lot cheaper than dinner. Look out for cafés and restaurants serving all-day buffets for between €9 ($10) and €14 ($15), where you can load your plate with salads, soups, and special offers. Since we often filled up at breakfast, we often had a late lunch – like 2 or 3 pm. We just needed some snacks to hold us over (which we got from a Finnish grocery store!). During our visit, the Omicron variant of Covid-19 was well underway. The Finnish government had restaurants close at 6 pm to prevent gatherings. (You could still get room service at hotels and go grocery shopping, but not eat at a restaurant).

Be sure to watch what you drink as well. Alcohol quickly adds to the bill, with a pint of beer costing around €5 ($5.40). Luckily tap water is safe to drink, so feel free to bring your reusable water bottle with you!

If you’re looking for a place to go for a picnic, there are plenty of options in Finland. You can find them in beautiful covered market halls, like those in Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. These places sell everything from bread and cheese to fresh fish and meat. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can grab a sandwich or snack from the many stalls and cafes inside the market.

Forage for your supper (in Summer)

Finland has a tradition of picking berries and mushrooms in the forest. You can pick them for yourself if you like. There are also many farmers who grow berries and mushrooms for sale.

Get out into nature

Finland is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a cheap holiday. You’ll get to experience the outdoors and enjoy the freedom of not having to pay for anything. There are many places to explore, including national parks and forests. You can also go camping and swim in lakes and rivers (obviously not something we could do). If you like cooking, there are plenty of opportunities to cook over an open fire. As someone who loves winter, I loved being out in the snow and enjoying the winter wonderland that is Finland. Cross country skiing and hiking are great free ways to enjoy nature even in the winter! (Just remember the sun sets around 4pm and it gets dark quickly!)

Save money on sightseeing

If you’re looking to save money on the city sights, the Helsinki Card is your best bet. Valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, the card gives you access to all the big-hitters sights and attractions and public transportation and gets you discounts at shops and restaurants.

Many museums offer free admission on certain days of the week. For example, the Design Museum in Helsinki offers free entry on Tuesdays between 4 pm and 8 pm. The Kunsthalle Helsinki is also free on Wednesdays between 6 pm and 8 pm. In Tampere, many museums are free on Friday afternoons between 3 pm and 6 pm. Be sure to check out my guide to free things to do in Helsinki to save money! 

Save “Visiting Finland on a Budget” for Later

Read more about Finland & Get your FREE Finland guide!

About the author.

18 thoughts on “How to Visit Finland on a Budget”

I had no idea Finland was an expensive Country. As an avid hiker I love the idea of being able to pitch a tent anywhere. Although winter in Finland sounds magical.

Excellent advice! I used the same tactic when I visited Iceland, also an extremely expensive country, like Finland. I just couldn’t opt for the bus because there is no public transport on offer. I have Lapland on my list 🙂

I agree with everything you have described here. I have visited Helsinki and can confirm it is not a cheap city! My favourites here are to fill up on the breakfast buffet – it lasts me until the eve with just a coffee n cake break needed in the afternoon. The Helsinki Card is a must if you are visiting a lot of the places it covers – it saved me loads. Great info here on how to save money for those who have never been to this expensive country.

I loved Helsinki but you’re right, it’s not cheap. I took the relatively cheap ferry from Tallinn to get there and it was a good alternative to flying. The breakfast buffet is a good hack, a big breakfast will help keep costs down during the day. Although I didn’t venture much further than the city, I’d like to go back to Finland so it’s good to know camping and wild berry picking are great options

What a great guide to be able to go to Finland on a budget. I love traveling on a budget as much as possible. But it sounds like there are still some great things to do! Traveling during shoulder season is always a great idea!

Oh my goodness, how cute is that little snow covered cabin?! There are some great tips here, thanks for sharing 🙂

These are all great tips. I know the Norse countries are expensive. Filling up at breakfast is always a good idea when travelling as I find it allows me to see more before I have to stop for food.

Thank you so much for sharing such valuable tips! Finland (and Northern Europe) can be quite expensive when compared to other European countries. But it’s definitely worth visiting!

I have been DYING to go to Finland, but it always feels out of reach when you’re on a budget. Thank you for sharing these tips 🙂 I must visit!!

i would like to visit Finland 🇫🇮 and that is my dream i don’t know how but i believe God one day it will be like this when am in Finland

I wish the Nordic countries weren’t as expensive as they are, as I know it deters many people from experiencing them. I do have Finland on my radar, so thanks for the tips you’ve shared. I always try and fuel a busy day of sightseeing at breakfast time. You’re right, it’s an expensive meal that can keep you going for hours. Not being a camper anymore, I wouldn’t take you up on the offer to pitch a tent, but it’s all about saving in ways so you can splurge in other ways.

So many great ideas here! I LOVE the idea of Jokamiehenoikeus and staying in the cabins. What a cool way to explore. Those breakfast buffets look fabulous too! 😀

Finland looks like such a beautiful destination! Your photos make it look like a winter wonderland. Being from Arizona, I think I would freeze, but it would be totally worth it. It’s crazy how expensive Finland can be to visit, so I’m really grateful for your budget-friendly tips! Thanks for sharing!

Breakfast Buffets are always a great idea. when I fill up on breakfast, I can easily skip lunch and make it til dinner. I also love that cabin in the woods with the amazing fireplace. Looks so cozy!

Finland looks gorgeous! I would love to go in the winter for Santa Claus Village but I know it’s super popular and pretty expensive. But there’s nothing more festive! I’m sure there are Christmas markets, am I correct? I have never been to Scandanavian countries but I will be going to Denmark and Sweden for the first time in November so I’m pretty excited about that!

Always wondered what is is about Finland and Norway and their extortionate costs for travellers. Thanks for including free things to do in Helsinki!

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

Thanks for such a practical guide – Finland has been on my list for so long. Definitely coming back to this post later 🙂

Such great information here! I love learning about how to travel to new places on a budget or just finding cheaper alternatives to traveling. It’s great to know that Finland can definitely be budget friendly when you have this type of information.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Europe Tours
• Finland Tours
• Budget Tours

Finland Budget Tours and Affordable Trip Packages 2024/2025

If you are seeking an affordable way to discover the wonders of Finland, a budget tour can provide a one-of-a-kind and thrilling adventure without hurting your wallet. From visiting world-renowned museums that offer a deep dive into the country’s fascinating history to experiencing the famed Finnish sauna culture, there is no shortage of unique experiences you can have on a budget tour of Finland. You will find that many attractions in the country can be accessed free of cost or at minimum price. Taking a budget tour in Finland is also a great way to connect with fellow shoestring travelers, with whom you could travel together and share the food and accommodation costs to save expenses. Choose from our list of budget tours below to experience the wonders of Finland in an affordable way.

• Best Time To Visit Finland

25 budget tours in Finland

• Starts Basecamp Oulanka, Finland
• Ends Basecamp Oulanka, Finland

Finnish Wilderness Week

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Winter adventure & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Resort & Lodge
• Transport Bus & Snowmobile
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Dec 08 Only 8 seats left
• Dec 15 Only 8 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Rovaniemi, Finland
• Ends Rovaniemi, Finland

Aurora & Glass Igloo Explorer - 5 Days

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle, Bus & Snowmobile
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,335
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 467
• Total Price from: US$ 1,868
• Nov 16 10+ seats left
• Nov 17 10+ seats left

Snowshoeing in Finland

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Northern lights tours & Winter adventure
• Accommodation Resort
• Transport Snowmobile
• Jan 12 Only 8 seats left
• Jan 26 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Kuhmo, Finland
• Ends Kuhmo, Finland

Christmas in Finland - 6 Days

• Activities Festivals and events & Snowmobiling Festivals and events , Snowmobiling , Food tours & Dog sledding 'data-more-tripid='16140'>+2 more
• Dec 22 10+ seats left

• Starts Turku, Finland
• Ends Turku, Finland

The Turku Archipelago

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Bicycle tours & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Ferry
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Jun 02 10+ seats left
• Jun 09 10+ seats left

Finland Wilderness Discovery - 5 Days

• Activities Wildlife & Honeymoon
• Accommodation Hut & Resort
• Transport Bus
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,545
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 509
• Total Price from: US$ 2,036
• Nov 01 10+ seats left
• Nov 02 Only 9 seats left

• Starts Helsinki, Finland
• Ends Vilnius, Lithuania

Baltic Experience

• Activities Countryside and village visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites Countryside and village visits , Cultural, religious and historic sites , National parks , Museum and gallery visits & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='3058'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Ferry, Train, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,180
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 795
• Total Price from: US$ 2,385
• May 04 Only 7 seats left
• May 11 Only 9 seats left

New Year's in Finland - 7 Days

• Activities Festivals and events & Snowmobiling Festivals and events , Snowmobiling , Skiing and Snowboarding & Dog sledding 'data-more-tripid='16050'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Resort
• Dec 27 10+ seats left

Lapland & Husky Highlights - 5 Days

• Brochure Price: US$ 1,935
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 387
• Total Price from: US$ 1,548
• Nov 18 10+ seats left
• Nov 19 10+ seats left

• Starts Akaslompolo, Finland
• Ends Akaslompolo, Finland

Cross-Country Skiing in Lapland

• Activities Winter adventure & Skiing and Snowboarding
• Accommodation Hotel & Hut
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Dec 01 Only 8 seats left
• Dec 02 Only 8 seats left

• Starts Copenhagen, Denmark
• Ends Stockholm, Sweden

Scandinavia

• Activities Sightseeing Tours & Art and architecture Sightseeing Tours , Art and architecture , Museum and gallery visits , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='20644'>+3 more
• Accommodation Lodge, Resort & Hotel
• Transport Coach
• Age Range 18-35 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,275
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 570
• Total Price from: US$ 1,705
• May 14 10+ seats left
• May 28 Only 9 seats left

Finland Wilderness Express - 4 Days

• Activities Explorer & Honeymoon
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,115
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 423
• Total Price from: US$ 1,692
• Nov 01 Only 7 seats left
• Nov 02 Only 6 seats left

• Ends Helsinki, Finland

Essential Scandinavia and Helsinki

• Trip customizable
• Activities City sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Ferry & Boat
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 20 10+ seats left
• Apr 27 10+ seats left

Helsinki & South Karelia Express - 5 Day

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,075
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 215
• Total Price from: US$ 860
• Jun 16 Only 8 seats left
• Jun 30 Only 8 seats left

Finland Budget Tour Reviews

Budget tours and trips.

• Europe budget tours
• Balkans budget tours
• Baltic budget tours
• Eastern Europe budget tours
• Mediterranean budget tours
• Northern Europe budget tours
• Scandinavia budget tours
• Uk And Britain budget tours
• Finland trips
• Eco tours in Finland
• Finland guided tours
• Finland family tour packages
• Finland luxury tours
• Finland small group tours
• Finland solo trips
• Finland tours for senior citizens
• Finland tours for young adults

Finland group tours

• Finland last minute deals
• Finland travel deals
• Europe group tours
• Balkans group tours
• Baltic group tours
• Eastern Europe group tours
• Mediterranean group tours
• Northern Europe group tours
• Scandinavia group tours
• Uk And Britain group tours

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Budget Finland Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money

• Pinterest 167

The Budget Finland Travel Guide includes 18 Important Travel Planning Tips that will allow you to see and do more on your budget. Learn how you can benefit.

Table of Contents

Welcome to the Finland Travel Guide! If you are one of those people who truly loves exploring the great outdoors then Finland must rank among the finest countries in Europe to visit. From the natural splendor of the Northern Lights and Hossa National Park through to the buzzing culture of big city Helsinki, you’ll have no difficulty filling up your itinerary whichever way you turn.

Make no mistake – there is a huge amount to see in this splendid country and you’ll be surprised that a country famed for its wilderness has so much unexpected diversity, and a cultural history steeped in an age-old tradition.

Finland may be a little off the ‘beaten path’ for many visitors to Europe, and perhaps that explains why the country remains so unspoiled and unique. Thanks to the convenience offered from a modern transit network and a bewildering ability for keeping trains running on time to the minute in blizzard conditions, Finland is surprisingly easy to explore. Those who do opt to explore something a little different are going to be guaranteed a quite unique experience that may well prove the most memorable of any European tour.

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Finland?

Lapland is far more than the home of Santa Claus (‘Joulupukki’ in Finnish) and while you’ll find no shortage of opportunities for photos with the great man, most visitors will be looking to enjoy some of the most staggeringly beautiful sub-arctic wilderness in the world. As you may expect the majority of activities throughout the region focus on the outdoors – and we’re talking way more than your typical snowsports. Reindeer and dog sleigh tours are fantastic ways of experiencing this side of the country (and don’t worry – the animals are magnificently well cared for).

You should, of course, be watching for the eponymous Northern Lights throughout the day and night. These are possible/very likely anywhere in Lapland from September through to April although are best around Christmas and New Year. Some people – including us at the Finland Travel Guide – reckon that thanks to near-zero light pollution that they are the best Northern Lights in Scandanavia (just don’t tell the Norwegians or Swedes!). Rovaniemi has perhaps the best reputation for being ‘guaranteed’ to see the lights, but we found the quality was better at Kakslauttanen thanks to being that little bit more remote.

Finland is famous for its tens of thousands of lakes – and a huge number of little castles and fortifications that tend to be dotted around them. Just by strolling aimlessly about the Oulanka, Nuuksio, Urho or Koli national parks you’d be sure to stumble across them by the dozen – but that is certainly not recommended! When the Finland Travel Guide says wilderness we really do mean it.

While there are plenty of well-walked routes with a good mixture of difficulties and lengths, you just need to venture a little away from the more traveled paths and find yourself in near-total isolation. If you are heading from some ‘proper’ hiking then make sure you have the right gear and some understanding of basic fieldcraft and navigation.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that Finland was all about traipsing through the wilds, and while that ought to be a key part of any visit, there is plenty else to see in towns and cities found mostly towards the southern and eastern ends. Helsinki is an excellent city to visit not just because it has the Suomenlinna park on its doorstep but because there is also plenty to see in the city itself.

It is particularly good for walking/cycling tours (highly recommended) so make certain to see the Temppeliaukio Church, Uspenski Cathedral, Sibelius Monument, and other national sites. When you cannot stomach any more culture, check out the Töölönlahti Bay for some amazing seafood or maybe relax on the Hietaranta beach (yes Helsinki has a beach!).

Most people will arrive and depart from Helsinki and then travel onwards further north without taking the time to visit much of the central regions. As with any European country, it can be as straightforward or as spontaneous and unexpected as you choose.

Much of Finland receives very little in the way of regular tourism – certainly less than neighboring Sweden – and you should expect a level of authenticity that can be quite rare to find elsewhere. Turku Castle towards the Russian border is a fascinating place steeped in many centuries of conflict, while the Åland Archipelago is perfect for exploring by boat (and a handy way of getting over to Stolkholm to continue your travels).

What Are the Best Things to Do in Finland?

Finland is a kinda handy country to tour because you tend to go to specific regions for particular activities. The iconic experiences such as hiking and sledding through the wilderness are basically all there is to do in the northern Lapland region besides the occasional museum and staring in amazement at the Northern Lights. You could pretty much ‘experience’ the region with just a handful of days, or you could take a serious hiking expedition that may last for weeks.

Much of the same can be said for the lake regions and all of the national parks . If you are interested in exploring and really experiencing what it is like to be in the middle of nowhere then Finland is a fantastic place for doing so with paradoxical ease.

One experience that your correspondent from the Ultimate Finland Travel Guide loved far more than anticipated was staying for a couple of nights in one of the more famous Ice Hotels. You’ll find similar examples in the other Scandi countries and in North America, but for the convenience of the uninitiated, they are surprisingly luxurious and deceptively warm!

Best of all is that they tend to be remodeled every year – whoever knew how easy it was to cut huge chunks of ice so elegantly? It is the perfect way of enjoying a chilled Finnish vodka martini in the comfort of your hot tub!

Santa is – needless to say – a big draw especially with one/two-night trippers from other parts of Europe (especially the UK and Germany for some reason). Fortunately, it hasn’t become grossly over the top and there is a good amount of tongue in cheek joking between which version of Santa is the real one – the white-bearded old man, or the mythical and slightly creepy goat.

We’ll let you make up your own mind, and the good news is that commercialism is there to enjoy if you like it – or you could easily turn the other way and enjoy natural splendor. Whoever said variety was a bad thing?

Helsinki is pretty small for a capital city (about 600,000 from a national population of 5.5m) but has a thriving contemporary and classical art scene, plenty of festivals across the calendar including the ‘world-famous’ Air Guitar Championship… In all seriousness, it is very reminiscent of Rekjavik and Gothenburg in the way that it focuses very much on delivering high quality produce/shopping at often quite high prices. Check out the various museums/galleries when you have the opportunity – the Ateneum, Sinebrychoff Art Galley, Finnish National Gallery, and several smaller residences are well worth the time and invariably serve amazing quality coffee.

So while it can be straightforward to pigeonhole Finland as an outdoors country there are plenty of alternative sites well worth taking the time to explore. Despite Helsinki being towards the pricier end of the scale, it has been attracting many more ‘in the know’ visitors in recent years who are put off by the often unseemly crowds you’ll find at many of the nearby Baltic capitals. Helsinki is a cool city and one that thankfully still has not been in the slightest bit defiled by mass tourism.

When is The Best Time to Visit Finland?

Hopefully, you are by now a little tempted to give Finland a try – and here is where deciding what time of year to visit is going to really matter. Depending on what you want to see/explore there are very different opinions on what constitutes high, low and shoulder seasons in Finland. For this reason, we’ll roughly distinguish by experiences instead of the time of year.

Should you be interested in camping and hiking through the central and coastal regions, and most people are, then July/August is the time to visit. You’ll have no problem finding plenty of cruises to compare, accommodation can be surprisingly cheap (or at least open!), and most of the large festivals occur around this time of year. Remember that many Finnis tend to take their annual vacations in the winter to enjoy snow sports, or to simply flee the country for more gentle climates!

But we at the Finland Travel Guide are not put off by a little frost. Aurora hunting is best over the winter months (especially either side of Christmas) and you’ll enjoy proper winter wilderness. Days are short, hotels are often closed, and those which are open cater mostly for skiing at pretty steep prices. Hiking is not likely unless you really know what you are doing or are willing to take a guided expedition. If you are determined to see the Lights and experience Finland as it is best known, then this is the time to visit.

Shoulder season is probably the best time if you intend on spending a lot of time outdoors and wish to enjoy a mild climate and not too many insects in the northern regions. Again, you need to plan a little for some attractions being potentially closed or in refitting, although the major museums/galleries ought to be open. Watch out for Midsummer – the whole country has a party for a weekend and basically everything closes down. Fantastic if you are already in the country, not so much if you are looking for a running train or an open attraction!

Do I Need A Tourist Visa in Finland?

You really should have no problems whatsoever gaining entry into Finland. Those from the majority of Western countries (Including the USA, UK, NZ, Australia, Canada, and EU nationals) can stay for 90 days out of 180 consecutively. Anyone else – including visitors from South Africa, China, and India – will need a visa.

Expect no trouble passing through immigration providing your documents are in order. Visas are usually issued quite promptly where needed but you must apply and be approved before arriving.

Do U.S. Citizens Need A Visa for Finland

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Finland, which simplifies entry into the country; however, a passport valid for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required.

What Currency Is Used in Finland?

Finland uses the Euro (€) that exchanges for around US$ 1.11 at the time of writing the Finland Travel Guide.

You will have absolutely no problems using cards for payment pretty much anywhere in Finland. Even the smallest stores and cafes will 99% of the time accept credit/debit card payments providing you have a four-digit PIN-enabled account. ATMs are still absolutely everywhere, should offer English language options, and do not charge any processing fees (although your banking services provider most certainly will).

The majority of visitors to Finland will get by just fine with a token amount of cash for small purchases and by using cards for everything else. If for some reason you need a bundle of cash then make sure to use banks for the best exchange rates. Note that the Finns are so invested in card technology that Traveler’s Checks are pretty much consigned to the history books nowadays and very few places will change them.

Do I Tip In Finland?

You will not be offending your server by not leaving a cash tip – it is almost universally added bills automatically (including hotel room charges). Only feel inclined to leave a tip for truly exceptional attention. Tipping is not customary for taxi drivers or bartenders although once again it is entirely at your discretion.

What Kind Of Budget Do I Need In Finland?

While Finland has a reputation for being an often surprisingly expensive country to visit the reality on the ground is somewhat different. It is perfectly achievable to explore Finland on a tighter budget than what you may expect, although you are inevitably going to be restricted by price constraints on what activities you can afford.

For instance, a hiking and camping tour of Finland during the summer is not going to break anyone’s bank. However, a ‘winter wonderland’ stay in the North during the peak Aurora chasing times of the year with incidental reindeer sleigh rides is going to become expensive very quickly. So with those caveats in mind here is a rough approximation on what we at the Finland Travel Guide would suggest visitors should expect from their budgets.

Budget (€100/day)

Hostels are universally good quality in Finland and visitors certainly benefit from the fact that the country is not actually known as a budget destination. You should look to book ahead in the summertime but that is really just to make certain your bed is secured – we have rarely struggled to find a place anywhere. A smart dorm bed with the expected conveniences will cost about €25-40/night depending on location and season. Campsites can easily be half that rate, but of course, you will be restricted to summertime and shoulder seasons.

Daily costs are where prices start to become noticeably expensive. There are always budget-conscious options from shops, takeaways, and food stalls but you’ll be looking at about €20+ for a single course meal at any seated restaurant. National museums are usually free but others will charge pretty steep admission rates comparable to what you’d expect in Paris/Berlin. We’ll cover travel costs shortly but on a budget, you’ll be advised to take a look at buses compared to the much more expensive train network.

As with many countries where the key attraction is unspoiled and natural beauty, providing you keep an eye on your expenditure you can enjoy a really good time in Finland without spending a huge sum.

Mid-Level (€200/day)

We’d compare this kind of budget to what you’d expect to pay in Sweden. Broadly speaking the prices for accommodation and travel are very similar, with double hotel rooms most likely going to be the largest daily expense. You should anticipate about €100-120/night for a basic yet modern hotel room. Factor in that price tends to be lower at certain times of the year and that the wilder/remote regions will usually be considerably more expensive.

Even though rooms are expensive assuming you are splitting that cost for a double there is still a fair amount to ‘play with’ on this budget. You could stretch that a little and take some sleighing trips, perhaps even a little cruise around the islands, and still not massively go overboard (so to speak!). Consider your dining options with some degree of care. Eating out is often reserved for very special events throughout the Scandinavian countries and you’ll notice this reflected in the high prices. Even a cup of coffee and a slice of cake in Helsinki can stretch beyond €10.

On the plus side, while museums and galleries are prone to charge admission they will not be much of a problem on this budget. Car hire is feasible if you are sharing as a group (€50/day) although fuel is very expensive. Generally speaking, you ought to take this kind of budget and look for the best way of applying it to the sort of stay you are looking for. If you want wilderness, then spend more on special retreats and lodges which are expensive but tend to include meals and subsidized tours/expeditions. If you are in the city, compromise on your hotel and spend big on the nightlife, shopping, and outstanding restaurants.

High-End (€300+)

You can spend your entire daily budget on a top of the range hotel room on this kind of budget – and would be right to expect something very boutique, trendy and most certainly upmarket! Throw in about the same again if you want to enjoy a meal at one of Finlands top restaurants – the prices on the wine lists are comically high, so consider that an adequate warning.

Joking aside you can enjoy pretty much all the best of Finland on this budget. You most certainly can enjoy the natural splendor, but rather than retreating to a campsite for the evening why not go ‘glamping’ at kitsch and cozy 5-star alternatives? Definitely take the opportunity for a sleigh ride, and who knows – maybe even a personalized trip to see the Santa of your choice.

Those with money to burn should perhaps consider midsummer providing you can find a hotel room. they book out sometimes years in advance assuming they choose to stay open at all. All of the Nordic countries have their own versions, and the communal festivals are incredibly welcoming to outsiders.

Overall, while it most certainly helps to have some cash when visiting Finland you can still enjoy plenty of the best in the country without spending crazy money. From a budget travelers’ perspective, you will need to think a little outside the box if you wish to enjoy key attractions such as the Northern Lights. Perhaps look for Airbnb options in popular areas that may offer better value compared to hotels. Or simply book one of the every limited hostel places in the northern regions far in advance. However you choose to approach it, the more effort put into experiencing something that amazing the better the experience is going to be.

What Languages Are Spoken in Finland?

Finnish is the language you’ll hear the most but Swedish is also an official language in Finland. From a visitor’s perceptive it is unlikely to make much of a difference – pretty much all Finns will speak English to an impressive standard with about 40% of the country at fluency standard. Lower proportions speak German as a second (or third/fourth/fifth) language.

It is worth knowing that despite the above, around 10% of the Finnish population – mostly those residing in isolated regions – do not speak any conversational English.

Do not feel awkward about approaching Finns to ask a question and speaking immediately in English – providing you do so politely. Finnish is notoriously difficult to learn and none of the locals will expect more than a simple “anteeski” (excuse me) first.

What Religions Are Practiced in Finland?

About 72% of Finns are Christian (almost all Lutheran), 24% specify no religious beliefs whatsoever and the remaining makeup tiny pockets of Islam, Buddhism, and others. As you may anticipate the Lutheran church enjoys a special status as the ‘official religion’ of the country even though it has little in the way of actual administrative power. It is quite paradoxical that even though Finland has encouraged freedom of religion protected by law since 1923, they are one of the least diverse religious countries in Europe.

Visitors to the country will not really notice any religious undercurrent unless they wish to participate. Religion is a factor in some people’s lives, but Finns are quite a socially conservative bunch and tend not to discuss such matters with strangers. You will find little in the way of evangelicism or more vocal denominations.

Practical Tips From The Finland Travel Guide

Now we have covered the basics for what anyone ought to expect from visiting the country, we’ll now shift our attention tot he simple practicalities of making the most of your stay. We at the Finland Travel Guide are not kidding when we claim that despite the reputation for being expensive and tricky to navigate, you can really explore this country without spending beyond your means. Just like Sweden and to a lesser extent Norway, the savvy traveler can have a wonderful time in this gorgeous country despite living from hand to mouth. You just need to think a little and make some compromises here and there.

Something you may have heard during your research into Finland is that they aren’t really the most ‘touchy-feely’ of people! There is an element of truth to this. Finns are really not people who tend to perform small talk, and attempting to speak to a stranger on a casual basis – for instance, commenting on the weather – will likely be met with a degree of bafflement. Obviously, that is not true for everyone but it is something which can incorrectly present a rather stubborn attitude towards visitors.

Their rivalry with Sweden has existed for hundreds of years, and their animosity towards Russians still ranks pretty deep among older segments of the population. Finns have struggled for many generations to achieve and maintain their freedom, which does, to a degree, foster a kind of insularity that can be misinterpreted as impoliteness or even hostility. They aren’t really like that. Just be careful to mind/appreciate personal space, avoid eye contact, be exceedingly polite and keep your voices down and you’ll be fine!

You’ll find the best way to engage in conversation with strangers in Finland is either in the sauna or in the bar. Those are socially acceptable places to discuss sporting events and suchlike in a casual manner. People will want to be your friend really!

What About Health and Safety in Finland, Is It Safe?

Finland has one of the lowest general crime rates in Europe and violent crime is extremely rare. Visitors are unlikely to be specifically targeted and even petty crimes such as bag theft and pickpocketing are practically unheard of. You’ll be extremely unlucky to fall victim to any crime in Finland.

Your biggest risks to personal safety are going to be from approaching the wilderness without proper equipment. It ought to go without saying that apart from the summer you will need some degree of warm clothing, plus adequate tents and so forth. There is dangerous wildlife (bears, wolves, etc) in Finland but they will stay far away from people. You are far more likely to crash a car into a moose – lookout for the roadsigns – than even sea a bear or wolf. Keep an eye out for hypothermia or frostbite in the winter, and mosquito bites in the summer. The latter is more a nuisance than a risk.

Moving on to healthcare, Finland has some of the best medical care in the world and you’ll be in good hands if you are injured or fall sick. EU citizens should apply for and carry an EHIC before visiting Finland to enjoy free/massively subsidized costs. You may still require special insurance if planning on skiing or taking on more extreme winter sports.

Visitors from elsewhere are going to need comprehensive insurance cover. Remember to make copies of prescriptions and any essential medical notices, ideally uploaded also to the Cloud for immediate retrieval if required. You may need to visit a Finnish doctor for reissues of prescriptions and accept that available brands may vary compared to what you are used to.

You should not require any particular vaccinations before you visit. The Finland Travel Guide can gladly attest that Finnish tap water is not only universally safe to drink, but is also the best tasting in the world.

What is the Best Transportation in Finland?

Finland enjoys an excellent train network that should be good enough for most visitors. Tickets can vary in price depending on distance and classification. Express trains are, as you’d expect, faster and more expensive than slower regional services. Ticket prices vary from expensive through to pleasantly affordable providing you book in advance online (at least 24 hours, ideally much longer). The problem is that the further north you head the more limited the network becomes. Just like Sweden, Finland is deceptively long and narrow and journeys can take much longer than you’d anticipate.

Buses are available on a wider network and in some ways are a better option than the train. Tickets are cheaper, and considering the long distances, the buses themselves are clean, comfortable and modern. Note that Finland has a relatively low-speed limit so expect longer journeys to take up a good chunk of a day.

Most Finns would opt for the bus compared to the train because while offers exist for both the bus has a better variety of discounts especially for younger people and seasonal passes. If you are visiting on a budget then the bus is certainly most likely your best bet for saving on costs while also taking in some pretty impressive scenery.

Note that some services do not run in winter so check well in advance. If money is not a problem and/or you are part of a group, car hire is pretty good value, roads are high quality and invariably cleared of snow around the clock. Just remember that gas prices are some of the highest in Europe.

Ferries run routinely throughout the year out to the islands and back over to central/eastern Europe. Domestic services can actually be a great way of exploring the western areas for decent prices, and certainly far cheaper than an organized tourist cruise which would take the same route anyway.

Internal flights are a valid option from getting between Helsinki and Lapland, just be sure to check availability according to the season you intend on traveling. As you’d anticipate, tickets are extremely expensive in peak season and often fully booked out well in advance. Discounts are rare on any internal route.

What Are the Best Accommodations in Finland?

Hostels – where available – are the visitor’s best friend when hoping to explore Helsinki on a budget. As a rough rule, accommodation prices are very similar to other Scandinavian countries. Hostels are excellent quality and at about 30 Euro a night are a comparative bargain. Expect to pay four times that for a very average hotel room. High-end accommodation will be at least 200-300 Euros per night and possibly even more for a room that, at the end of the day, is just somewhere to sleep. As ever, the choice is yours.

The Finland Travel Guide suggests that all visitors to this country look at alternative accommodation options besides the typical hostel/hotel conundrum. Finland is an extremely on-line country and you’ll have no problem finding people with spare rooms or even full apartments to let out on a casual basis. For those visiting areas with a more limited choice in ‘traditional’ accommodation then you really ought to consider this as a way not only for saving cash but also as an avenue of getting to known Finland a little better.

In the summertime, the climate is pretty much ideal for hiking and camping. Sites can book out for the more popular spots, so book in advance and pay attention to rough camping laws/restrictions. They can vary depending on your region. Should you opt to camp, expect to find excellent facilities and quite possibly the option for a chalet costing a little more than a standard hostel private room but capable of sleeping four people or so.

How Can I Practice Responsible Tourism in Finland?

Should you be lucky enough to explore Lapland it is essential that any responsible visitor does their best to invest in the indigenous Sámi run services. A good proportion of the best reindeer routes and more interesting Kota (tee-pee) accommodation options are going to be run by these people. Apart from these kinds of businesses they have little other income, so far better to share your money with them compared to some anonymous international hotel chain.

Protecting the natural splendor of Finland is paramount in the tourist industry and a major reason why the country is nowhere near as involved in self-promotion and marketing than it arguably should be. Getting to Lapland is not especially easy – and that is not just due to limited numbers of visitors, but also because of government pressure to keep the environment as unchanged as possible.

Wherever you go in Finland you ought to make sure you leave no trace. That includes campsites and firepits just as much as it does litter and waste. You are free to camp in many areas of the country providing you do so responsibly. Punitive fines are in place should those rules be broken.

Keep a low ecological footprint wherever you go, buy local, and understand the sensibilities of the locals and you can consider yourself a responsible visitor to Finland.

What Food Should I Try In Finland?

Attempting to pronounce classic Finnish foods is only a small part of enjoying how good they can be. There are plenty of national dishes that you’ll find cooked on a regular basis in people’s homes, although for some you may need to visit more specialized restaurants. Here is a selection of the Finland Travel Guide favorites.

Karjalanpiirakka (Karelian pies) is a common ‘working meal’ that is very similar to an English pastry. The usual course pastry is filled with a selection of stewed potato, rice, carrot, and sometimes with added meats and eggs. Handily pocket-sized and packing enough energy to last through the most bitter of winter afternoons, these are a real delicacy that is sure to keep you going.

Ruisleipä is without any doubt the best rye bread that you’ll ever eat. It is taken with pretty much every meal regardless of the restaurant status, and at home is baked in long rings which are hooked to the ceiling for storage. You’ll still see these in pretty much every baker’s shop and once more they are ideal for the penny watching visitor.

Silli Ja Uudet Perunat (herring with new potatoes) is a dill packed national favorite that you’ll find served especially during midsummer festivals. Discussing the merits of various potato is a peculiar Finnish obsession…

What Should I Pack for A Trip to Finland?

Try not to forget any essentials when packing for Finland as while replacements are never going to be difficult to find, they can be extremely expensive! Pack suitable outdoors wear for any season, ideally featuring plenty of layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather. A lightweight waterproof item is a good idea despite the mild summers, whereas a good warm hat and overcoat are pretty much essential in winter. Make sure your boots are in good order and properly waterproofed.

Other than those basics you should not need anything else when visiting Finland.

What Clothes Should You Wear In Finland?

Despite the reputation for being a bit conservative and prudish – which we’ve tried to account for and dispell throughout the Finland Travel Guide – you’re best off dressing to conform in this country. Nobody will challenge you for being scruffy unless you are also wearing something offensive or inappropriate in particular locations. A responsible visitor will not be intending to cause offense anyway, so best reign in the more extreme dress senses during your visit to Finland.

You’ll notice that Finns are quite affluent yet still dress in a pretty unconventional manner. They’re ones for discreet classiness, and that fact ought to be remembered at more upmarket restaurants and so forth.

What Are Some Interesting & Important Facts About Finland?

We are nearing the end of our Finland Travel Guide and hope you have found this a useful introduction to one of Europe’s most beautifully unique countries. As with any country, you will visit, places and people are always going to have some interesting differences and Finland is not any exception to that rule.

Despite their reputation for being a little more clinical than some of their more extravagant European neighbors, you’ll discover plenty of fun and interesting facts while touring this country. After all – it’s always the quietest ones who tend to have more bizarre points of interest! So here are a few little facts to get you started with exploring this fascinating nation.

▸ According to the United Nations, Finland is the happiest nation on Earth (perhaps they just don’t complain enough).

▸ Alongside the world air guitar tournament, Finland is also the global capital for the world wife-carrying championship.

▸ Finland has an annual day to celebrate their failures – October 13th.

▸ Finland no longer has a single public payphone.

▸ Each Finn consumes on average 12kg of coffee per year.

▸ Finland operates unlimited fines for speeding on the highways (told you they drive slow for a reason).

▸ Perhaps that explains why they have more saunas than cars.

▸ Heavy metal is the unofficial national music of Finland

▸ Finland was the first European country to enact Universal Suffrage (allowing women to vote).

▸ They consume more salty licorice than anywhere else on the planet.

We hope you enjoyed reading the Budget Finland Travel Guide – and good travels! Contact us with any questions you may have about travel to Finland.

Now that you have read the Ultimate Finland Travel Guide, what’s next? Let’s go next door to Norway. Check out The Ultimate Norway Travel Guide

Related posts:

• Budget New Orleans Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Austria Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Sweden Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Norway Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Barbados Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Bermuda Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Switzerland Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Bahamas Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Netherlands Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money
• Budget Aruba Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money

Related Posts

3 Great Tips to Visit the Montserrat Monastery

Run with the bulls and stay alive/our 10 top tips.

Finland on budget: 17 easy tips to save money

Transportation and route planning

Sights and shopping

Do you know more “Finland on budget” tips?

Join my community.

Great tips! I have heard that Finland can be quite expensive so knowing where to save and where to spend is always helpful.

Great tips! Never would have thought to eat in a Chinese restaurant to keep costs down, but it makes sense. I’ve only been to Helsinki for work, but I’d love to go back and see the far north. Thanks for the Murmansk tip; that never would have occurred to me!

Absolutely excellent tips you mentioned out there. It’s great to plan earlier and make a list of free things you can actually do there. Plus those Chinese lunches actually save dime. Prefer couchsurfing is also another tip I guess.

I would love to stay in wilderness cabins and in holiday villages not because it is cheap but because the experience would be unique and awesome! Also, I usually drink tap water, as long as it is safe to in a country. Good tip about the Chinese lunches and kebab places. Also, I didn’t know it’d be cheaper to get to Lapland via Russia!

I always like to travel cheap and you have a wonderful list. Totally agree with you travel in low season. Not only it can avoid the crowds and at the same time, we can enjoy a lot of peace. Most importantly plenty of photo opportunities without any human photo bombs.

This is definitely my next plan. Sticking to cycling and Northern lights on your own too. Finland was what I left the last time. These are some awesome tips Alex! Thank you. Saving this one?

This guide is helpful for newbies in Finland. I sure will make use of this tips if I ever make it to Finland.

Together with my husband, we often travel on a budget so your blog post is very helpful for us. A lot of clever tips. Thanks! We are going to Finland in the near future, so we will take advantage.

Great list and money saving tips. I do agree the travel cards are useful and there are some restaurants with some great food. Some museum cafe has some great buffet deals, too. And yes, if you spent more time on research it’s okay to hunt Northern lights by yourselves, but sometimes a guide make things easier in the cold @ knycx.journeying

I didn’t realise how expensive Finland can be. Good tip about visiting in late summer or early autumn, I love the colours of the leaves at that time. I love the idea of foraging, but watch out for poisonous mushrooms.

Great tips. I wish I saw your post before I visited few years ago. I would of saved a fortune

Some really interesting tips there. Lapland from Russia and cycling around sounds fun. The Northern lights photo looks great. I always prefer budget travel and hopefully I get to visit Finland.

I have never been to Finland. THerefore, this article will be a very helpful tool when I will be going there. What is the temperature now?

These are great budget-friendly tips! I am all about traveling the world with the cheapest bill and since Finland is on my bucket list, I will pin this post for when I plan that trip. Cheers!

Pink mushrooms tours and wilderness cabins?! I want to go now!!! These are great tips, thanks for sharing, I have been to all the countries around Finland apart from Finland so your tips will be proved very useful to me!

Thanks for sharing! I hadn’t considered going through Russia to access some parts of Finland to make things cheaper, but I’m going to look into it since it makes the transportation so much more affordable!

This is a great guide – however I’m shocked reading the prices: 48 Euro for a day card?!? Gosh, that’s pricey. However, the tip travelling to Lapland through Russia is great – on the other hand, I don’t need a visa for Finland… Anyway, like I said, the guide is really great and very, very helpful!

You missed saying eat wherever you see “seisovapoyta” means sitting table but really is a buffet lunch you can eat as much as you can includes non alcoholic drinks and bread, its very traditional Finnish and fixed price about 15 – 20 €

Hyvaa matkaa = have a good trip..

You can get as far as to Kolari by train. Kolari is about 160 km up north from Rovaniemi. I recommend taking a night train where you can get even your car on the same train. You’ll arrive rested and can continue your journey by car.

Helsinki metropolitan public transportation ticketing has changed since the blog was written. Prices are based on different zones and it is now more affordable to travel in the entire Helsinki area, including neighboring cities Espoo and Vantaa. You can also reach by public transportation some amazing forests in Helsinki area, check out Nuuksio and Haltia for example.

Eating a warm meal during lunch time is also recommended. Not only the Chinese restaurants, but virtually all restaurants have lunch deals from 10 – 12 euros.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Privacy overview.

Travel Cost Calculator

Finland travel cost calculator.

How much does a trip to Finland cost? How much money do I need per day in Helsinki or Lapland?

Our online travel cost calculator helps you plan travel expenses including hotel costs, attractions, transportation and dining.

This free tool is for any traveler who simply wants to figure out a budget for a trip to Finland.

Choose your destination, number of travelers, travel month, your preferences, and the tool provides a rough estimate for you to see if these costs meet your budget or when to go to Finland for cheaper rates.

Prices are shown in Euro (€) and U.S. dollars (US$) to make the calculations easier to use.

How do we calculate your travel costs?

Accommodation rates are based on average rates for a standard double/twin room for two adults. The peak and off – season rates are taken into account. Shoulder season rates and holidays are not included in the estimate. Accommodation rates may vary greatly depending on how far in advance you book, cancellation policies, special offers and deals, etc. The hotel prices we’ve collected are all well-rated hotels in the popular tourist areas in Finland.

Transportation prices:

• Public transport: 24-hour pass or 4 single/one-way tickets per person per day
• A 10 km (7 miles) taxi ride in a city center
• Midsize car rental. A car hire cost is calculated per day, so it might be a lot cheaper to rent by a week or two weeks. SCDW insurance is not included in the estimate

Food prices:

• Cheap eats: street food, fast food, e.g. Big Mac & Coke for a lunch
• Mid-range cafes and restaurants: a set lunch menu or a one main meal + dessert + coffee for a lunch; 2-course dinner without drinks
• Fine dining: breakfast and lunch in mid – range cafes and restaurants; dinner: Tasting Menu without wine
• 1 alcohol drink: a glass of wine or beer
• 3 drinks: a glass of wine, beer and cocktail

Attractions :

• Two attraction tickets listed in “Things to Do”
• Two popular attraction tickets and one tour

Unexpected travel expenses such as tips, souvenirs, a bottle of water, etc.

Average Travel Costs

The average price of a 7-day trip to Finland in July is US$1284 | €1190 for a solo traveler, US$1450 | €1344 for a couple. Off-season travel may be up to 48 % cheaper. The average cost of a 7-day trip to Finland during off-season is US$661 | €613 for a solo traveler, US$827 | €767 for a couple.

Hotels range from US$74 - 379 | €69 - 351 per night with an average of US$124 | €115. Travelers spend on average US$69 | €64 on meals per person per day in Finland. 1 day in Helsinki will cost you US$191 | €177.

Things to Do

Ferry Prices

Leave a comment

How much did you spend in Finland? Share your experience with other travelers by leaving a comment below!

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Backpacking Finland Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking Finland Travel Guide (2024)

Finland might be one of the best-worst known countries in the world: everyone knows OF it, but when it comes to explaining what they actually know ABOUT it, most people would just say: ‘Uh, I guess it’s cold?’

Many travellers long for a dreamy Lappish holiday, but there is much, MUCH more to Finland than snowy dreamscapes and powdery ski slopes. It’s a country inhabited by cool, unique people that will love to tell you all about it — just as long as you buy them a drink first.

Finland has managed to retain its individuality, despite being pressed between giants like Russia or Sweden. Maybe because of the right conditions, or maybe because of the typical stubbornness of its population; but either way, backpacking Finland is one hell of an experience.

This Finland travel guide will be your fast pass to all the best things to do, see, eat and experience in the land of a thousand lakes — and how to stretch your budget in one of the most expensive regions in the world.

Ready when you are!

Why Go Backpacking in Finland?

First of all, Finland is one of the greenest countries in the world, both in terms of sustainability and actual nature. It’s known as the land of a thousand lakes, and it’s got around 188,000 of them!

Almost 3/4 of its area is covered in forest, but this is not a country of dramatic valleys and mountain ranges. The beauty of Finland’s nature is more humble, less flashy, but still as breathtaking as it could ever get.

How does sleeping in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights sound? Or rushing through fresh snow on a husky sled? Perhaps throwing back beers all night with your new Finnish friends because the sun never sets?

Backpacking Finland is an awesome addition to first-time backpackers: it’s extremely clean and safe, friendly, and you’ll rarely ever feel unwelcome.

And the backpackers who’ve been everywhere and seen everything: you could say it is actually an off-the-beaten-path destination. It might not seem like it at first glance, but it receives relatively few tourists compared to many other European destinations .

This means you’ll be able to steer clear of annoying tourist crowds and experience Finland as it is – especially if you dare go outside of Helsinki and Rovaniemi.

So let’s kick off this travel guide with some sexy itineraries. I’m going to run you through a few of my favourite routes for roaming around the country, and I’ll introduce you to the places you absolutely MUST visit in Finland.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Finland

To make things easier, I’m assuming that you’re starting from Helsinki, since it’s the easiest and most obvious point of entrance. Depending on how much time you have, I have compiled my suggestions into three different itineraries.

They were designed for 5 days, 2 weeks, and a month, respectively — but they’re easily adjustable to however much time you might have.

5 Days in Finland: The Southern Trio

Helsinki -> Turku -> Tampere -> Helsinki

Your trip starts with two days in Helsinki , the capital. Walk around the city centre and admire its neoclassical architecture, the iconic Helsinki Cathedral and the harbourfront.

In the afternoon, hop on the short ferry ride to visit the Suomenlinna fort for a nice (and free!) stroll among one of the most important historical monuments in Finland. On a sunny day, this is a prime picnic spot!

Dedicate your second day in Helsinki to gathering the most quintessential Finnish experiences. Sample some reindeer meat at the portside market (if you’re into that), discover Finnish art history at Art Museum Ateneum , and rent a pair of ice skates for a lap at the rink by the railway station.

You can also end the day at a sauna. One of the most famous public ones is called Löyly — and while it is pretty much catered to foreigners, it’s still a fun experience to plunge in the freezing Baltic waters afterwards!

After Helsinki, you should head to Turku. The ex-capital offers one of the prettiest riverside walks along the Aura River and has an awesome old castle to explore. Top the experience by spending the night at Turku’s only backpacker hostel on a decommissioned riverboat.

The next day, dash out to Tampere to finish your Southern Finland loop. The city of culture and theatre has lots to cover, but you can cross most of it in one day. Check out riverside factories , climb up the Pyynikki observation tower, and toast to the city on the top floor of its tallest hotel.

2 Weeks in Finland: Essential Lapland

Rovaniemi -> Levi -> Inari -> Saariselkä -> Kuusamo

This one works in the summer too, but winter is particularly special in Lapland . The route includes a lot of driving, be sure to save some time for it — especially if you want to do some hikes.

You start it off in Rovaniemi : the gateway to travel in Lapland. And the hometown of Santa Claus himself!

Whether or not you believe this magical man brings a sack full of presents to your house every year, Rovaniemi is a great place to get a first taste of northern Finland. It’s quite touristy, I won’t lie — and there’s some husky sledding (and reindeer safaris) if you’re into that.

From there, head north to Levi , a tiny town with awesome ski slopes in the winter and great hikes in the summer. You can also hike during the winter, but it’s a tiny bit more hardcore!

Your next stop is Inari , where you can learn about the culture and traditions of the Sámi people, an indigenous group inhabiting Lapland. Inari is also a starting point for hikes in the Lemmenjoki National Park , renowned for its historical role in the Finnish gold rush.

Travel southbound to stay in Saariselkä , your best access point to the Urho Kekkonen National Park . This is one of the wildest areas in Finland! Travellers going from broke to bougie can crash at the Instagram-famous glass-domed igloos in Kakslauttanen.

And then comes the last stop: Kuusamo . In the winter, stay in the nearby town Ruka for some more skiing, and in the summer or autumn, you can start the legendary Karhunkierros trail (The Bear’s Trail) here. This 82-km route is one of the most popular, and most beautiful hikes in Finland.

1 Month in Finland: The Ultimate Backpacking Finland Adventure

Helsinki -> Mariehamn -> Turku -> Rauma -> Tampere -> Jyväskylä/Vaasa -> Oulu -> Rovaniemi -> Sodankylä -> Kuusamo -> Kuopio -> Helsinki

If you’re adamant to see absolutely every part of Finland — respect! This itinerary covers most of it, but remember: distances are quite big and driving can get exhausting. Adjust as needed.

You start by exploring Helsinki for a few days. If time is on your side, squeeze in a day trip to Porvoo or the Estonian capital Tallinn .

From Helsinki, get a ferry to Mariehamn, the capital of the Åland Islands . Spend a few days biking around its peaceful roads, and head over to Turku afterwards to soak in some Finnish history.

After that, travel up the coast to Rauma , the biggest wooden old town in the Nordics and one of the prettiest towns in Finland!

From here, you can either go to Jyväskylä , one of the biggest university cities, or Vaasa , a coastal town that’ll set you off to Kvarken Archipelago , a damn beautiful set of islands.

Both cities have direct access to Oulu , your gateway to Northern Finland. Oulu is a lively market city and definitely worth checking out, but not for long ’cause we’re heading to Lapland!

I recommend spending a few days on the Arctic circle in Rovaniemi , then heading up to Sodankylä . If you come in June, the midsummer sun doesn’t set at all (it’s quite mental), and you’ve got a great film festival in town.

After that, we start heading south to Kuusamo , one of Finland’s best nature sites. Drive down through the quiet rural landscapes of Eastern Finland , stay in Kuopio for a couple of days and loop back to Helsinki.

Places to Visit in Finland

Now that we’ve been over a few itineraries, let’s dive deep into what these places are all about. Sure, you’ve heard of Helsinki — but just like any other capital, it represents only a tiny fraction of what Finland is really made of.

If you can, extend your route to explore some of the other cities I covered, Finland national parks and coastlines. Backpacking Finland can be an epic adventure, and you’re bound to have one if you so desire!

Visiting Helsinki

Helsinki is without a doubt the coolest city in Finland — and also the most visited one. The capital is well known for its architectural gems, unbeatable design, fine cuisine, and excellent culture.

It’s also the capital of street style: the people of Helsinki are chic, cool and trendy. They know how to dress! Black and grey all day.

Take a short ferry trip to the Suomenlinna fort . This 18th-century sea fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosts a small village with cafés, shops, and even a backpacker hostel. Other than the ferry, visiting the fort is free! The boat ride also gives you the chance to have a good look at Helsinki.

The city centre is easy to do on foot, and that’s where Helsinki’s most famous sites are located. Visit the Helsinki Cathedral , nibble at fried vendace at the port-site market, and stroll in the Kaisaniemi botanical garden.

Peek at the famous Rock Church (that’s, well, built into a rock) and take your pick from the plethora of museums: some nice ones are Helsinki Art Museum (HAM), Contemporary Art Museum Kiasma and Art Museum Ateneum . The last one is home to some of the most important works of Finnish art.

Want to get your adrenaline rush on? Visit Linnanmäki , the oldest amusement park in Finland. Their wooden rollercoaster has been in operation since the 1950s!

Popular Day Trips from Helsinki:

• Porvoo: Just an hour from Helsinki, Porvoo’s Old Town is a gorgeous glimpse into Finnish history. Its cobbled streets hide many treats including craft ice cream, coffee and candies. You can visit the house where Finland’s national poet Runeberg once lived, but its most iconic attraction is the row of wooden red storehouses by the river.
• Nuuksio National Park: Nature is never too far in Finland, even in the capital region. Nuuksio National Park is easy to reach with public transportation and has a network of trails for daytrippers and trekkers alike. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the endangered flying squirrel.
• Tallinn: The Estonian capital and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe is just a 2-hour ferry trip from Helsinki. Multi-country day trips made easy! Traditionally, Finns cross the Baltic Bay in pursuit of cheap alcohol, but Tallinn is awesome beyond booze. Highly recommend!

Visiting Turku

Turku was the previous capital of Finland. It was founded in the 13 th century, which means it’s the oldest city in the country — any history geek will love it here.

Even though a large part of the city was destroyed in fires, its history museums, castle and buildings still bring back a breeze from the past. Check out Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova; this museum combines an archaeological museum with modern art exhibitions.

One of the best ways to get to know the city is to stroll by the Aura River . In the summer, students come to chill and in the winter, if the river freezes enough, it’s possible to ice skate on it.

Many of the city’s most important sights, like the Turku Cathedral and the Market Square , are also located along the river.

Follow it long enough, and you’ll eventually find Turku Castle . With over 700 years worth of history in its halls, it’s been turned into a museum with exhibitions and rooms that give you a feel of life back-when. Some say the castle is haunted — but I guess you’ll have to find that out for yourself.

In the summer, the outskirts of the city become the stage to Ruisrock , the biggest and one of the best music festivals in Finland. It draws in both Finnish and foreign performers across all genres.

Turku is also one of the biggest port cities in Finland,s and has the best ferry connections to the Åland Islands and Stockholm .

Popular Day Trips from Turku:

• Rauma: In my humble opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in Finland. Old Town Rauma is filled with charming, colourful wooden houses that host cozy cafés, cute second-hand shops and traditional handicraft stores.
• Naantali: The number one summer city in Finland is best known as the President’s summer residence and Moominworld, a theme park dedicated to the most famous Finnish children’s characters. If you ain’t feeling like a Finnish child, no worries: Naantali’s old town is still plenty charming to explore. You can also chill portside and do some people-watching on a nice sunny day.
• Turku Archipelago: What would a visit to Finland’s favourite port town be without an expedition to its archipelago? The best way to get between the little islands is by taking a ferry.

Visiting Tampere

The cradle of Finnish rock music, theatre and culture is the second city of Finland — often voted as the most liveable city in the country. It’s also dubbed the “Manchester of Finland” and endearingly shortened by locals as “Manse”.

Tampere was in the heart of Finnish industry and production, and the emblematic views of red-brick buildings along the Tammerkoski river still very much define the city’s image.

It might just be the most charming city in Finland! The centre’s Art Nouveau style buildings stand side by side with old churches and historical red-brick factories, creating a beautiful mix of architectural styles. Just on the outskirts of the centre, you’ll also find the Pispala neighbourhood known for its idyllic wooden houses.

Tampere is one of the best summer cities in Finland. During long, lazy summer days, the city centre is bustling with international food markets, craft beer events and music festivals. Summer theatre productions are also popping up all over the place.

For the cultured traveller, Tampere offers some awesome niche museums : there are museums dedicated to Moomins (Finland’s beloved hippo-like children’s book characters), espionage, Finnish police forces, Tampere’s workers’ history, Lenin, and video games.

My favourite thing about it is that it’s surrounded by nature: lakes on both sides, with forests and countryside just outside the city borders. And there are multiple spots to spy on this beauty.

Try Näsinneula Tower with sweeping 360-degree views, or Hotel Torni, the tallest hotel in Tampere whose sky bar serves lovely craft beer from a local brewery. The best spot for me, though, is the Pyynikki observation tower . It serves THE BEST sugared doughnuts in Finland — and perhaps in the entire world.

Visiting Vaasa

Looking to make some new friends? Vaasa is a small city filled with students and one of the most international cities in Finland.

It’s located on the West coast, so you’ll have ample opportunities to sit portside drinking coffee or beers. Or simply hanging out at the beaches!

Get your fill on history, see the ruins of Old Vaasa and the historical Vaasa University campus. There are some cool small museums to check out too, including the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art, Vaasa Car & Motor Museum and — since this is a seaside city — a Maritime Museum.

Everything is walkable, but you can blend in with the Finns and rent a bike to cruise around. The biggest reason to visit Vaasa, though, would be its unique nature!

The Kvarken Archipelago is located right outside of Vaasa. Fun fact: this group of islands is Finland’s only natural UNESCO site, and it is home to tons of unique fauna and flora. You’ve also got fantastic hiking, canoeing and boat trip opportunities. You can also find Finland’s longest bridge in the area.

Visiting Jyväskylä

Jyväskylä is one of the biggest student towns in the country and allegedly the place where the most pure form of Finnish is spoken (don’t sweat it, you’re still not going to understand a word of it).

I have to be honest with you: there isn’t much to see here. Jyväskylä is a place to experience, to relax. It’s a place for those who travel the way they live, for those who like to go slow.

But this doesn’t mean it’s boring. You can still visit the Alvar Aalto Museum , dedicated to Finland’s best-known architect, and find buildings designed by him all over the city.

Climb up the Vesilinna observation tower to see the town from above, and shop for handicrafts at cute little artisan shops at the Toivola Old Courtyard (especially great around Christmas time!).

At dark, take a stroll in Jyväskylä’s harbour and admire its beautiful cityscape. Jyväskylä is not known as “the city of light” for nothing – it has over 100 illuminated monuments.

One of my favourite things to do on the way to or from Jyväskylä is to stop at the Vaajakoski district. Just seven kilometres from the centre, you can visit the Panda factory, specializing in sweets, chocolates, and liquorice. Panda is a lesser-known and equally delicious alternative to the famous Fazer sweets.

Visiting Kuopio and Eastern Finland

The Eastern part of Finland is often overlooked by most international travellers — but hopefully not by you.

While you might not find many world-class attractions here, what you’ll rather encounter is natural peace. Couple that with a few quirky events and a whole side of Finland you never thought possible: chatty Finns.

The people here are known for their unique sense of humour and their inability to ever get straight to the point. The cities might not entertain you for long, but this is a prime road trip area in Finland.

Kuopio is the capital of the Northern Savo region. Make sure to try kalakukko (literally: “fish rooster”), a delicious, traditional rye bread that can be filled with both sweet or savory filling.

Climb the Puijontorni Tower for a fantastic view over Kuopio and the surrounding nature. The city is also relatively close to Sonkajärvi, where the Wife-Carrying World Championships take place every summer (yes, that’s a real thing).

Koli National Park is possibly the most iconic natural landscape in Finland and accessible all year round. The forested hills are perfect for even inexperienced hikers!

Another great nature site is the Saimaa Lake, Finland’s biggest lake and home to the endangered Saimaa seal that’s only found here.

Eastern Finland is in the heart of the Finnish Lake Land, which makes it an awesome place to experience your best cottage life. Finns are extremely fond of their summer holidays in cottages by the lake; rent one out for the weekend and see what all the fuss is about.

Visiting Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the gateway to Lapland and, besides Helsinki, perhaps the most popular destination in Finland. You can experience quintessential Lapland here without having to venture too far into the wilderness.

And this is where you find… Santa Claus!

After a Finnish radio announcer claimed Santa lived here, all the way back in the 1920s, Rovaniemi decided to capitalise on the idea. They turned a cabin where Eleanor Roosevelt had once stayed and made it Santa’s house.

Now, Santa Claus Village is the most popular attraction in Rovaniemi. I’ll admit, the theme park is very much geared towards children, but it’s a great place to release your inner child.

Santa’s not the only famous resident in town. Rovaniemi is also home to Rovio, the game studio that’s best known for Angry Birds . It’s also the birthplace of the lead singer to Lordi, the heavy metal band that’s snatched Finland’s only win in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Attractions dedicated to both are kind of underwhelming: the Angry Birds Park is mostly a playground for children, and Lordi’s Square is, well, just a city square. You’re better off checking out the Arktikum , a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the north, and the Ounasvaara fell .

You can book dog sledding and reindeer safaris here, even though the hefty price tag makes both experiences pretty unattainable for the brokest of backpackers. And no fear: animal welfare laws in Finland are very strict so you can rest assured that Rudolph and his buddies are well-treated.

Visiting Lapland

I’ve separated Lapland as its own point on this list because let’s be honest, Rovaniemi represents Lapland as well as Paris represents France: it still counts, but it’s a very lightweight introduction to what really is about.

Lapland is the northernmost region of Finland, spanning all the way into Sweden, Norway and Russia. It’s the least inhabited, most remote part of the country — a place to experience true wilderness.

The best time to visit is the winter when the whole region turns into a postcard-perfect winter wonderland. It’s the best place to try to see the Northern lights in the winter and experience the midnight sun — 24-hour daylight — in the summer .

In the winter, towns like Kemi, Ruka and Levi are packed with ski tourists and winter hikers; in the summer, the vast national parks of the north become excellent stages if you plan to go hiking in Finland .

Try your hand at gold mining in the Lemmenjoki National Park , wander the wilderness of the Urho Kekkonen National Park or tackle Finland’s most beloved hike, Karhunkierros (the Bear’s Trail). If 82 km, so if that sounds like too much walking for you, opt for the Small Bear’s Trail that’s only 12 km and can be done in a day.

Travelling Lapland is all about its nature so it’s not very popular with city trippers, although there are a few special towns to see too. Inari is the centre of Sámi culture in Finland, Sodankylä hosts an internationally acclaimed film festival, Kittilä builds an ice hotel complete with ice sculptures and an ice bar every winter, and Nuorgam is worth it too.

Visiting Oulu

If you’re on your way to Rovaniemi anyway, you might as well make a stop in Oulu. It’s a small, friendly, and quirky town in the North of Finland. Most of the Old Town’s wooden buildings burned down centuries ago, but the remaining old houses stand peacefully side by side with the 19th-century architecture. Oulu is a great summer city.

The best place to spot old wooden houses is in the Pikisaari area , where you can also check out the old Wool Mill , home to art galleries and artist studios, and the Seafarer’s Home Museum.

Shake hands with the most famous resident in the city: Toripoliisi (The Market Square Police) is a jovial fellow who guards the Market Square and the Old Market Hall. The area around the market also has some charismatic wooden houses and popular pubs.

Despite its small size, Oulu is a lively little spot and hosts a few epic events throughout the year. In February, admire snow sculptures at the international Nallikari Snow Festival; in July, dance away at the QStock music festival. Oh, and headbang in August at the Air Guitar World Championships!

Take a day trip to Hailuoto Island. A car ferry makes sure you can drive yourself or use public transportation. Hailuoto is a cool little spot with white-sand beaches, a historical lighthouse and idyllic fisher villages.

Visiting the Åland Islands

Visiting the Åland Islands is like stepping into a tinier version of Sweden: these Swedish speaking islands in the Gulf of Finland are an awesome peaceful destination for a mini-detour while backpacking Finland.

Easily accessible on a boat from Turku or Helsinki, Åland Islands can also be a pit stop on your way from Finland to Sweden or vice versa.

With a population of less than 3,000 and just one town to speak of, there aren’t many big attractions… but nature is everywhere. From incredible sunsets to chilling by a quiet lake and travelling through rural sites, Åland gives you time to just enjoy being present. Picture it like a mental detox!

Not that you would get bored: its capital Mariehamn is a tiny city marked by colourful wooden buildings oozing Nordic charm, and it’s jam-packed with marine history. Visit the museum boat Pommern or take a trip to the heart of the island to explore the 16 th -century Holmenkollen Castle.

The best way to explore around is to rent a bike. Distances are short — the island only measures about 50 km both ways — and the roads are great and flat. All the roads in Åland have a distinct red hue since they’ve been built using a special rock found on the islands. Follow the red-brick road!

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Finland

Let’s be honest here: if you choose to travel anywhere outside of Helsinki or Lapland, you’re already off the beaten path. Travelling to Finland is way more fun when you go a little astray.

Finland is popular as a domestic travel destination, but international crowds have yet to discover this land’s most beautiful assets. As a backpacker, you’ll be even more of a rarity: the high travel costs in Finland have long scared travellers away. But hey, Couchsurfing is a thing!

The best way to explore Finland is not through attractions, but rather through experiences. Mingle with the Finns, let them introduce you to their home region, or just grab a few drinks at the neighbourhood bar; there are hardly better ways to get to know the culture and its people.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

Top Things to Do in Finland

Where do I even start? It should be illegal for a country as small as Finland to pack this much fun up its sleeves. Here are some of the best things to do in Finland that you won’t find anywhere else.

1. Fill your belly at Restaurant Day

Restaurant Day is a pop-up street food festival that allows anyone to put up a café, restaurant or bar for a day. Arranged four times a year, it’s your best chance to sample as much affordable, delicious street food as your stomach can take. The festival started in Helsinki in 2011 and has since then spread to several other Finnish and European cities.

2. Sauna like a Pro

Did you know that “sauna” is the only etymologically Finnish word used in English? It’s one of the most iconic Finnish activities you could partake in. Pretty much every Finnish house has one, and there are over 3 million saunas in Finland — that’s almost 2 saunas per person! Do it like a Finn and go in naked, followed by a skinny-dip in the lake or a roll in the snow.

3. Meet Santa Claus

While Santa Claus might not be a purely Finnish character, his official house is located in Rovaniemi on the Arctic Circle. It’s mostly a kids’ thing, but the theme park is also popular among foreign travellers who come to re-live their childhood dreams. Fun fact: Coca-Cola ads were the ones to popularise Santa dressed in red, and the designer responsible for these images was also Finnish.

4. See the Northern lights in Lapland

This list would be complete without adding the one thing that’s on every visitor’s wish list: the aurora borealis. The magical mystery of the sky. Northern lights are visible everywhere in Finland, but your best chance of catching them is up north during clear, winter nights. If you’d like to up your chances of seeing them, subscribe to the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s aurora alerts .

5. Booze it up on an overnight cruise

Want to have a REAL Finnish experience? Okay, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. The cruise ships on the Baltic Sea are the easiest way to navigate between Finland and Sweden, but the tax-free alcohol and night clubs on board attract a lot of drunken sailors that come on the boat only to get boozed up. The ticket to a 23-hour cruise doesn’t let you disembark on the other end, though, but takes you right back to the port where you started from.

6. Camp to your heart’s content.

Thanks to the Everyman’s rights ( jokamiehenoikeus ), you’re allowed to camp anywhere in Finland without a special permit. And pick berries and mushrooms! Finns are extremely proud of their forests, and the right to roam is inherited in their connection with the natural environment.

7. Shop for Finnish Produced Goods

If your measly budget allows a little splurge, shop famous Finnish brands for souvenirs. Marimekko specializes in clothes and textiles with an emblematic poppy design, Iittala has a range of well-known tableware designs, and Tom of Finland products present highly masculine homo-erotic art that has broken free from the subculture and become popular all over Finland.

8. Do ALL the winter sports.

Finnish kids learn to ski and skate as soon as they can stand. Try downhill skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or cross-country skiing — or simply borrow a toboggan and speed down the snowy slopes. And the biggest hats off to you if you dare to try the most extreme activity of them all: a plunge in a lake at winter through a hole drilled in the ice.

9. Spend some time on the Countryside.

For many Finns, ”mökki” is a dear holiday home. These lakeside cottages are one of the best experiences you can have in Finland. Imagine skinny-dipping straight from the sauna as the sun sets over a mirror-clear lake: now you’re starting to get the hang of the life around here.

10. See an Ice Hockey match.

A winter wonderland like Finland had to be well-versed in winter sports. On top of the successful international teams, most big cities in Finland have their own teams as well, and cheering a team on among roaring Finns is always a fun experience. Even if you’re not that into the game!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Backpacker Accommodation in Finland

Here’s the thing, Finland is not ideal for backpackers. Not many travellers find their way up north, which means that backpacker accommodation options are limited over there. Or pretty much non-existent.

The hostel scene in Helsinki is pretty dope, so you’ll have no trouble finding a great place to stay. And it’s possible to base yourself there and explore Southern Finland on day trips, but this can be inconvenient and expensive.

Hostels in Finland are generally more expensive than you’re probably used to while backpacking Europe . But hey, they’re clean, comfortable, and usually include all the facilities you would hope to find in a hostel. And to true Finnish style, most of them also have saunas.

When there are no hostels in sight, your best bet is to find a mid-range hotel or a holiday apartment. Airbnb is also a thing; at the lower end of the scale, you’ll find a room at $25-35/night through Airbnb, which is often cheaper than a little hotel room.

The Best Places to Stay in Finland

Wild camping in finland.

Now here’s a golden tip for the real broke backpacker: Finland’s nature is free and welcomes all. Thanks to “ Everyman’s right ” ( jokamiehenoikeus ), you’re free to hike and camp anywhere, as well as pick berries and mushrooms in the forests.

This means that camping in Finland is easy and legal. Stay out of city parks and private property, though — the best camping spots are in the national parks. And remember: leave no trace behind.

Many hiking trails are also equipped with different shelters where you can spend the night for free . Wilderness huts, Sami huts, and wooden lean-tos usually have a firepit to keep you warm during the chilly hours of the night.

Finland Backpacking Costs

Is Finland expensive ? Hell yes. However, there are still sneaky little ways to make your trip there a little more affordable.

Eating out is expensive in Finland. Sorry! However, your grub in Finland doesn’t have to be just instant noodles. For the cheapest and most authentic meals, head to the central market squares . Many of the bigger cities have a permanent covered market that has small cafés and restaurants serving simple and delicious home-cooked meals for as little as $7. If you’re in a university town, you can eat at the student cafeterias for about $9 (including the main meal, salad and bread!).

In general, try to fill your belly at lunchtime since you’ll find much better offers then.

Download the ResQ Club app . It’s an app that aims to minimize food waste, so at the end of the day, restaurants put up drastically discounted meals.

Cooking for yourself is always the cheapest option, and Finland is no exception. If you’re really pinching pennies, visit S Market supermarkets after 9 p.m. when all of their expiring products are at 50% sale.

The absolute cheapest way to travel in Finland is by bus. If you plan your trip in advance, you can score early-bird discounts on Onnibus and Matkahuolto bus lines for as little as $2.5 per trip. Similarly, trains usually have some discounted tickets, too. If your plans include tripping from Helsinki to Rovaniemi and back, though, prepare to shell out a hundred bucks for a train or $50 on a cheap flight (one-way).

Alcohol in Finland is EXPENSIVE. But no fear: there is a way to party the night away without breaking the bank.

The solution, my dear traveler, is student bars. While you might often end up paying $9-12 for a pint in a normal bar, student bars offer shots for as little as $3 and beers for $3.5-5. Or, you know, pregame.

If you want to avoid hefty entrance fees, pick pubs and small bars over big nightclubs to avoid paying the entrance fee (about $5-10).

Look, if you came to Finland expecting to plow through powdery snow on a husky sled, you also need to be prepared to stack out some serious cash. The famous dog and reindeer safaris cost about $120 for a couple of hours of sledding. Having fun in Finland does not come for cheap. A daily ski rental in Helsinki can be about $25 (and a ski pass at a resort about $40-50), a museum ticket $30, and a day pass to an amusement park $50.

Luckily, there are plenty of cheap and free things to do as well. Hike and camp, walk around cities, take advantage of free events and exhibitions and relax on beaches and in parks.

A Daily Budget in Finland

Money in finland.

Finland is a part of the EU and so it uses the Euro.

Most places will accept cards, but it’s always a good idea to carry a little bit of cash with you. There are ATMs all over the place, and you can exchange money in banks or exchange offices.

Travel Tips – Finland on a Budget

Trying to stretch your euros as far as they go? Then try out these good-and-tried broke backpacker practices.

• Cook your own food. A money-savvy explorer cooks their own food — especially in Finland. It’s a good idea to slip a portable camping stove into your backpack; it’s great for accommodations that don’t come with a kitchen, and perfect for hikes in the pretty Finnish forests.
• Take a tent. All hail Everyman’s right! In Finland, you’re allowed to camp on public land (excluding city parks), so if you want to save some cash, pack up a lightweight tent.
• Try Couchsurfing. Finns might be introverted but they love sharing their culture with foreign travellers. Try Couchsurfing and make friends while sleeping totally for free.
• Shop second-hand. If you get to Finland and realise that it’s a little colder than you expected, find a second-hand shop. There are plenty of privately owned ones as well as charity chains like UFF, Salvation Army and Red Cross. You’ll easily find a warm coat for $10 or less!
• Volunteer. Staying somewhere awesome for just a few hours of light work? Sign me the fuck up. If you are looking to stay in Finland for longer,  check out Worldpackers . It’s an excellent platform connecting travellers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world.
• Travel with a water bottle. The tap water in Finland is among the best in the world so there’s simply no excuse to keep buying bottles. Take a reusable bottle with you and save both money and nature.

Why Should You Travel to Finland with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to Finland

The absolute best times to travel to Finland are the summer and the winter.

Finnish summer is lovely: the days are long and mellow (usually 20-25ºC, sometimes rising up to 30ºC), and Finns spend their time drinking in parks or restaurant patios. The amount of daylight can come as a shock: in Lapland, the sun never fully sets in the summer, and even in the south the darkness only lasts for a few hours.

Peak season is June-July when schools are out; May and August still get nice weather without being quite as packed.

The days in the winter are short and dark. It’s a great time to visit if you’re not used to snow and coldness — a friend of mine was blown away when he realised he could walk on ice! The temperatures get way below freezing, anything between -10 and -40, but you know…

Snow has been falling later each year, so while you might get your winter dreams fulfilled in November or December, play it safe and time your trip between January-March.

If you’re looking for some spectacular autumn colours, end of October is also a fantastic time to visit. Word of warning, though: the splendour lasts for about two weeks, then the trees lose their leaves in bitter wind and rainstorms, and the weather gets miserable and grey until it starts snowing.

The springtime can be lovely with the nature in Finland coming back to life, but it still rains a lot. The streets are wet and sloshy from melting snow — plus, even timing your trip to May doesn’t guarantee that you won’t get caught in the snow.

Festivals in Finland

There’s no better time to experience Finland than in the summer, when every week is packed with weird and wonderful events all over the country.

Did you know that Finland is the country with the highest number of metal bands per capita? On top of the likes of Nightwish and Children of Bodom, the Finnish music scene is booming in every direction and genre possible.

The best part? The crowds are way smaller than festivals happening in busier European countries. Here are some quintessentially Finnish events, festivals and celebrations to consider when backpacking Finland:

• May Day. The biggest student celebration of the year is also a national bank holiday. The experience is marked by street markets, balloons, home-made slightly alcoholic lemonade (sima) and sugared doughnuts.
• Midsummer (June): Midsummer is a big celebration in Finland. Usually, Finns escape to their countryside cottages, but there’s always some sort of small city festival going on. And an evening bonfire! Places like Tahko and Himos arrange big parties for Midsummer.
• Ruisrock (July): Finland’s biggest music festival is a three-day extravaganza just outside of Turku. It brings together huge foreign acts and some of the best Finnish artists across all genres.
• Tuska Festival (July): This three-day festival might be the biggest metal music festival in Finland and a must if you’re a metalhead. Even the name of the festival is metal as hell: it translates to “Agony”.
• Air Guitar World Championships (August): “Make air, not war”: this bizarre competition that crowns the best air guitar player in the world aims to “promote world peace” and takes place in Oulu.
• Wife-Carrying Championships (August): One of the funniest sporting events ever takes place in Eastern Finland, in Sonkajärvi. Every August, dozens of couples race through an obstacle course with the man carrying his wife on his back to win the woman’s weight worth of beer.
• Flow Festival (August): THE indie music festival brings together dozens of Finnish and international acts to Helsinki.

What to Pack for Finland

No matter where I travel, I always pack a few things with me:

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Staying Safe in Finland

If you google “safety in Finland”, you’ll be faced with an insane-sounding list of great superlatives: Finland consistently ranks on the top of the list when it comes to safety, freedom of speech and press, personal freedom, lack of corruption and crime, social justice, political stability, trust in police forces… Need I say more?

So, rest assured, Finland is probably one of the safest countries you will ever visit. Of course, bad stuff can happen anytime, anywhere, so keep your wits about you and you’ll be fine.

Finland gets very dark in the winter. The cheapest life insurance is buying a dangling reflector — sold in all supermarkets — that you can pin to your bag or jacket to stay visible in the dark. And don’t fuck with the cold.

Winter conditions can cause black ice, limited visibility, and bad roads. If you plan on driving yourself, make sure you know how to drive in the snow! And watch for moose danger signs, they like to cross the road without looking both ways.

Hikers: never hike alone if you’re unsure of your wilderness survival skills. There are some remote trails where help is hard to come by if you get lost or hurt. Pack your day pack well , and always let someone know where you are and when to expect you back.

Oh, and keep an eye out for wildlife: you’re most likely to just come across some squirrels and hares but Finland has wolves, bears, lynxes and wolverines. Surprisingly, the most dangerous animal might still be the moose. They’re gigantic and can be aggressive around mating season.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Finland

All drugs are illegal in Finland — yep, even weed. Still, there isn’t a large-scale “war on drugs” going on here, and you’re more likely to get a warning than a fine if you get caught. Drug use has definitely been on the rise in recent years, but it’s still not all that common in Finland.

Finns definitely a drinking nation. Alcohol is often an inseparable part of social events, and a lot of Finns might struggle to keep their wits about them. Finns LOVE to introduce foreign visitors to their special liquors – and laugh at you as your face goes pale.

The “holy trinity” of Finnish shots might get offered to you as a welcome gift: first Suomi-viina, a terrible Finnish vodka; then Salmiakkikoskenkorva or “salmari”, a liquorice-flavoured vodka; and lastly, Jaloviina, a strong brandy especially favoured by students and old drunks.

When it comes to dating, Finland is often said to be one of the most liberal countries in the world, so you can get on Tinder and swipe to your heart’s content.

Travel Insurance for Finland

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Getting into Finland

Located up in the north, Finland is not exactly en route to anywhere but it is still pretty well connected to the rest of the world.

The easiest way to get there is by catching a plane to the Helsinki Vantaa International Airport, which has a ton of international and intercontinental connections from both big-scale and low-cost operators. There are also smaller airports around Finland, but their international arrivals are usually limited to other European countries and Nordic countries.

You can also arrive by boat from ports in the Baltic Sea like Stockholm, Riga or Tallinn. The Tallinn route is especially popular with many low-cost ferries crossing the bay in just about two hours, whereas the ferry from Stockholm is a overnight trip.

In the North, Finland borders Sweden and Norway. (And Russia, but we don’t really talk about that — things get a little more tricky that way.)

Even though this route is rarer, it’s also possible to take a bus or drive from Sweden or Norway. Travel between the Nordic countries is not restricted so there are no border checks.

Entry Requirements for Finland

Finland is in the EU and the Schengen Area, which is great news for most travellers. Most nationalities can travel to Finland visa-free for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days. Yay!

You still definitely need a valid passport or another travel document, but from my experience, if you’re arriving from another EU country — even on a plane — you might not even get your passport checked.

If you’re a lucky holder of another EU passport or from another Nordic country, Switzerland or Liechtenstein, you can freely stay in Finland for up to three months . After this, you need to apply for a residence permit.

However, not everyone can just dash over to the Schengen Area just like that. If your passport is on this list , you need to apply for a visa before arriving in Finland. Apply for the visa at a Finnish embassy; in some countries, Finland might be represented in another country’s embassy.

Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

How to Get Around Finland

Finland is a lanky lady — tall and thin. Backpacking Finland means long distances when travelling between north and south. During the winter, bad road conditions and early darkness will affect your travel times as well.

Luckily, the transportation infrastructure is well set up, and you shouldn’t have too much trouble getting from start to Finnish!

The cheapest way to get around Finland is usually by bus. In recent years, the bus network has expanded immensely, and it’s pretty easy to find a ride to almost anywhere you want to go.

You can book bus tickets online beforehand or buy them at the station. The advantage to buying in advance is they might be cheaper: most long-distance lines have a progressive price scale for tickets, meaning that the quickest travellers might be able to book a ticket for as cheaply as $2.5.

Buy bus tickets through Matkahuolto or OnniBus companies.

Trains in Finland are awesome: fast, clean and comfortable (although chronically late in the winter, at least by Finnish standards). They even have fast and free wifi! They often cost a little more than bus tickets but then again, if you book early enough, you’ll be able to snatch a discounted ticket.

There is only one train company operating in Finland, VR. You can buy train tickets through their website or at the station from self-service automats.

Never try to board a train without a valid ticket since they’re always checked. If you’re travelling without a valid ticket, the fine is 80€.

Note! You can usually buy a ticket upon boarding (only with card, not with cash), but because of corona, all tickets must be bought beforehand now.

As good as public transportation connections might be, having your own car gives you more freedom to explore. The roads are generally well-signed and in good condition. If you’re not used to driving in the winter, though, skip on the rental! When it snows, the roads get very icy and are potentially dangerous. Even for Finns, who’ve driven in these conditions their whole lives.

Finns are also extremely law-abiding folks so follow the speed limits: 120 km/h on motorways, 100 km/h on rural highways, and 60-40 km/h on urban areas in the summer. During winter, the limit for urban areas comes down to 20 km/h or less.

Finland is mighty fine for cyclists, at least when there’s no snow. Even though the country might not be as well-equipped as The Netherlands, Finns themselves are avid bikers. And many bigger cities have city bikes available for rent! Ideal if you want to get around fast.

Note that, in cities, if there are no designated bike lanes, bikers are required to paddle on the road — not the sidewalk. And even though it’s rare, you might get stopped by the police for not wearing a helmet.

Long-distance biking is not impossible either if you’re so inclined. Finland is a pretty flat country!

The population of Finland might not be big, but the land area is. If you’re backpacking Finland on a rush, the quickest way to travel is by plane. There are domestic airports e.g. in Rovaniemi, Kittilä and Ivalo, and a plane ticket might cost half the price of a long-haul sleeper train. I’ve found the best flight deals through Norwegian that usually also has huge sales around Christmas.

Travelling in Cities

The biggest cities have functional public bus networks, which usually make having a car useless. The Helsinki Metropolitan Area has a metro as well as city trains. There are also trams in Helsinki, and soon in Tampere.

If you’re planning to spend time in smaller cities, though, public transportation is few and far in between, and especially travelling to and from national parks can be hard to time for day trips.

Hitchhiking in Finland

For a thrifty traveller, hitchhiking is an excellent way to save money. Whether Finland is an ideal place to do that, though — the votes are not yet in.

Theoretically, Finland would be great for hitchhikers. Long rural highways are dotted with bus stops, petrol stations and other excellent places to thumb a ride. And the country is extremely safe.

The biggest and most important problem you’ll run into are the Finns themselves. As introverts, many Finns would be hesitant to pick up a stranger on the road side — they really don’t enjoy small talk!

Hitchhiking is pretty rare, so you will definitely get some funny looks. But it’s possible! Everything is possible.

Campervanning in Finland

Ready to live like a Finn? Campervanning is pretty popular in Finland, even so that there are pop songs dedicated to the van lifers .

Especially in the summer you’ll see dozens of mobile homes headed north in orderly queues like a herd of buffalo on their seasonal migration.

The three main places to rent a campervan are Helsinki and Helsinki Airport, Turku and Rovaniemi.

Motorbiking in Finland

Strap on your helmet, because Finland is great for motorcyclists! The long, flat highways are made for riders who enjoy a bit of scenery as they’re driving.

If you bike around, watch out for cracks and potholes — even though roads are generally well-maintained, the long, harsh winter is not easy on the asphalt. There are even a few motorcycle clubs, including a Harley Davidson club and a religious motorcycle club.

Onwards Travel from Finland

Usually, travellers backpacking Finland want to check out the rest of the Nordic and Scandinavian countries . In that case, the same applies as arriving: boats and planes are your best bet between countries.

A word of warning to those wanting to travel to Russia afterwards: there are buses and trains from Finland but the border is well monitored and you need to get a Russian visa before travelling.

If this seems like too much trouble, you can always take a cruise to St. Petersburg from Helsinki: even though the trip is quite expensive, it allows you to explore St. Petersburg for three days with no visa before returning.

Working and Staying Connected in Finland

So… you want to live and work in Finland? For the citizens of the EU and EEA countries, it’s pretty straightforward. Just hop on the plane and move (although you do need to apply for a residence permit after three months).

Self-employed people can apply for a residence permit without needing to have a job in Finland. If you’re planning to work for a Finnish employer, though, you need to have found work before you lodge your application.

It’s not impossible to find a job in Finland, but it can be hard since most places do require you to speak fluent Finnish. Yikes!

Finland is not really popular with digital nomads. With the weather and high prices, it’s pretty much the opposite of what most digital nomads are looking for.

However, if you want to give it a go, you’ll find that the wifi is excellent almost everywhere. And English is widely spoken — in 2016, Helsinki’s population was about 12% foreigners.

Besides, with the corona pandemic, a lot of Finns have had their jobs go online, so remote working will definitely become more popular.

It’s not hard to find free wifi in Finland but if you want to buy a SIM card, most (non-prepaid) phone plans come with unlimited data.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteer in Finland

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst helping your host community. There are plenty of different volunteer projects in Finland including teaching, construction, agriculture and pretty much anything.

Finland doesn’t need volunteers in the same way poorer, less-developed countries do, but there are opportunities out there. Most volunteers help out with eco-projects or take part in cultural exchanges and homestays. Keep in mind most travelers need to apply for a residence permit in order to volunteer in Finland, but it’s always a good idea to contact your nearest embassy if you’re unsure. 

Our go-to platform for finding volunteering gigs is Worldpackers who connect travellers with host projects. Have a look at the Worldpackers site and see if they have any exciting opportunities in Finland before signing up.

Alternatively, Workaway is another excellent common platform used by travellers searching for volunteering opportunities. You can read our review of Workaway for more info on using this terrific platform.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and platforms like Workaway are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

What to Eat in Finland

When people ask me what Finns eat, I’m often at loss for words. There isn’t one staple cuisine that defines the whole country, nor one ingredient that would be most popular. The food here is all about freshness, local produce, and simplicity.

There’s a running joke that Finns only know two spices: salt and pepper. But that doesn’t make Finnish home-cooking any less delicious: a Finnish plate is a balanced mixture of greens, potatoes, and meat/fish.

And fear not, fellow vegans — Finland has a staggering amount of options for you guys, too.

In addition to hearty, homely food, Scandinavian-style fine dining has started to gain more popularity (especially in Helsinki).

Hunting is a pretty popular sport, so meat from game animals is not a rare sight at the dinner table, although you’d rarely find elk stew or rabbit soup in restaurants. Reindeer is a true delicacy and definitely worth a try!

Oh, and you have to indulge in the sweets. Finns are a population with a serious sweet tooth that doesn’t just end with the famous salty liquorice. Any Finnish supermarket has a packed aisle full of dozens of different varieties of sweets, bubble gums, chocolates, fudges, and hard candies.

Stock up on Fazer chocolate — I might be biased, but it might just be the best chocolate in the world.

The Best Food in Finland

• Karelian pie – rice porridge in a rye bread crust, usually eaten with egg butter
• Rye bread – delicious dark bread that Finland does better than any other country
• Kalakukko – a baked rye bread traditionally filled with fish and bacon, originating from the Savo region
• Vispipuuro – whipped lingonberry porridge is a dessert usually served with milk and sugar
• Karelian stew – filling meat stew
• Reindeer – self-explanatory (and delicious)
• Bread cheese – soft, squeaky cheese, best enjoyed with some cloudberry jam
• Pea soup – usually eaten with lingonberry sauce and oven-baked pancakes for dessert
• Fried vendace – the tastiest treat to pick up from a food market (look out for the text “muikut”)
• Salty liquorice – a real opinion divider that Finns love and travellers hate
• Christmas tart – “joulutorttu” is a yummy star-shaped Christmas pastry with plum jam filling

Finnish Culture

You might know the stereotype: Finns are tough, extremely introverted people who never talk to anyone. While it would be easy to judge them as closed-off and hostile, this is not true.

The people of the land of snow and ice are friendly, open-minded and hospitable — although you might have to give them a couple of beers first to warm them up.

Or maybe a cup of coffee? Finns drink a crazy amount of coffee: at 5-8 cups on average every day, they’re the biggest coffee consumers in the world.

Some of the disconnect might come from their sense of humour. Finnish jokes are often dark, wry, self-deprecating, and extremely sarcastic. If you’re wondering if a Finn is being serious, they might not even know the answer themselves.

Finland is like the ultimate socialist utopia: affordable healthcare, a functioning social welfare system, and education that’s not only free but also pays students on certain levels. Education is a highly respected value, as is the appreciation for nature and the love for the country itself.

Finns are mostly welcoming towards tourists. In fact, many of them get excited that anyone would want to visit their little country, so they’re very willing to introduce you to the fineries of the Finnish culture.

If you’re a foreigner backpacking Finland, you will definitely catch this iconic phrase: ‘In Finland, we have this thing called…’

Speaking Finnish – Useful Travel Phrases

Here’s my top tip if you want to learn Finnish: reconsider .

Finnish is often ranked as one of the hardest languages in the world. English has one grammatical case, Finnish has 16. And despite being a part of the Fenno-Ugric language group, it’s very different to the languages it’s related to. Only Estonian somewhat resembles the Finnish jumble.

Luckily for you, Finns generally speak really good English. If you want to impress your new Finnish friends, a well-placed perkele will earn you some brownie points.

Here are some phrases that might or might not help you during your trip.

Kiitos – Thank you/Please (as in, Will you pass me that beer, please?)

Hei/Moi – Hello

Mitä kuuluu? – How are you?

Apua! – Help!

Olut/kalja – Beer

Kahvi – Coffee

Sisu – tenacity, persistence, determination (used to describe the Finnish character)

Joulupukki – Santa Claus

Mökki – summer cottage

Perkele – damn, hell (the most iconic Finnish swear word!)

Kalsarikännit – getting drunk in your underwear alone at home without any intention of going out later

Books to Read About Finland

• How to Marry a Finnish Girl – American Phil Schwarzmann’s book is not only a humorous half-memoir about how he met his Finnish wife but also a look at some of the Finnish stereotypes and oddities that often baffle foreigners.
• Unknown Soldiers – Väinö Linna’s book is the most important Finnish historical novel. It takes place during the Winter War when Finland was up in arms against Russia. Its vivacious, region-specific language might be lost on a foreign reader but its colourful characters make this an interesting read even for modern audiences.
• The Year of the Hare – Arto Paasilinna is a master of the dry, dark Finnish humour. And that’s clearly visible in this book, whose plotline takes a journalist and an injured rabbit on a whirlwind trip all over Finland.
• The Summer Book – One of the most translated Finnish novels tells the story of a little girl, her father and her grandmother spending their summer on a sleepy island in the Gulf of Finland. The author is well known as the creator of the beloved Moomin characters.
• Finnish Nightmares – This web comic quickly went viral and has now also been turned into physical books. The short comic strips depict Finnish people in various (social) predicaments. Like having to leave your apartment when there’s a neighbour in the hallway, or having to sit next to a stranger on the bus.

A Brief History of Finland

Finland is a small country marked by its continuous resistance to foreign influences against all odds. In any other country, being this proud of your nation might be a red flag, but here it seems justifiable.

The Swedish monarchy reigned over Finland for over 1,000 years. In 1808, Finland was lost to Russia in war, in which it became an autonomous part of the empire. When many other European countries started to break free at the end of WWI, Finland also gained their independence in 1917.

During WWII, Finland was once again in cahoots with Russia. This period has an effect on the national character to this day! Mostly untrained guerrilla soldiers fought the Russian army in the three-month war known as Winter War, and it was seen as a fight to keep the independence.

During the war, Finns had been allied with Germany as many of the untrained soldiers had received training there. After the fighting ceased, the problem shifted to getting the German soldiers out of Lapland. Cue more fighting. The troops finally left but burned everything in their wake.

These days, Finland is the world leader in many statistics: in overall happiness, freedom of press and speech, quality of life, education, gender equality and safety. While relationships with Russia are still shaky, Finland has got pretty good at doing its own thing and thriving at it.

Final Advice Before Visiting Finland

So you’ve made it to the end of the post — you could almost say that you have now Finnished reading this backpacking guide.

Finland is quirky, pretty, safely adventurous, and surprisingly off the beaten path. And the rest of the world can learn a lot from this little land!

Free education, affordable health care and providing social welfare for all citizens have always been important values in Finland. Regular backpackers like you & I are incredibly lucky to be able to travel and see the world as freely as we do, and that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

The Finnish system might seem like a utopia for many countries but it’s not impossible to achieve. And the willingness to take care of your fellow humans is definitely something you can take with you on your travels.

I hope you enjoy backpacking Finland as much as I do. Make some great memories, but go easy on the Finnish vodka to make sure you remember them.

Hyvää matkaa!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Elina Mattila

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• GLOBAL Tours
• Multi-Country
• Puerto Rico
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Dubai – UAE
• South Africa
• Philippines
• New Zealand
• How It Works?
• Tour Videos
• Tour Photos
• Why Bucket List Group Travel
• Earn Rewards
• Installment Payments
• Travel Insurance
• Travel Info Form
• Booking & Cancellation
• Terms & Conditions
• Solo Traveler
• Small-Group
• Budget Tours
• Travel Diary
• Tour Finder

View Adventure Tours

View Cruise Tours

View Festival Tours

View Hiking Tours

View Road Trips

View Wildlife Tours

Upcoming tours.

Finland – Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo

Scandinavia Highlights – Denmark Norway Sweden Finland

Must do adventure.

Igloos have been a thing to marvel at since reading about them in your geography books. Well, now it seems that travelers can even sleep in one when they are enjoying the Finland Tour! Most of the glass igloos are situated in the Lapland region of Finland because of the maximum chances of observing the Northern Lights. Sleeping in a glass igloo under the comforts of the Arctic sky can itself be extremely fulfilling. Enjoy the ice fishing in the frozen lakes adjacent to the igloos.

For a country of abundant forests like Finland, most of its habitable places have been constructed out of wood since a few centuries back. One can go roam in the wooden neighborhoods of Helsinki like Vallila and Kumpula and get a taste of the antique atmosphere and marvel at the wooden apartment houses built with Nordic Classicism in mind. You can also get lost in the old town of Porvoo and take a walk in history with its captivating wooden houses sitting quietly on cobblestone streets.

Visit the enchanting town called Rovaniemi during the Finland Tour, which is famously called the Gateway of the Arctic. The summer unleashes you to the experience of the Midnight Sun and a chance to go on your dog sled safari. The winters are magnificent with the hallowed Northern Lights illuminating the sky and you can enjoy its beauty while wending your way across the scenic Nordic ski trails.

Bucket List Experience

Being the capital city of Finland and built around a major port, Helsinki has been the watchful sentinel who has witnessed the evolution and intermixing of cultures. Bask your senses by taking a walk through the popular Market Square surrounding the harbor or visit the sprawling Esplanadi where the entire city gathers in the evening. You can also choose to observe the evolving traditions of Finland by visiting the Four Famous Churches of Helsinki which portray its transition from a Swedish territory to a Russian outpost and finally to an independent nation. A short ferry ride from Helsinki will land you at the famous UNESCO world heritage site of the Suomenlinna Fortress.

Sitting in the northern part of Finland, the city is the home of Santa Claus, and so there’s a chance to meet the Santa during Finland Tour. The city of Rovaniemi offers some of the wildest tourist attractions like canoeing, fishing, swimming, and even hiking and cycling, across its sprawling natural spaces. The Midnight Sun in the summer or Arktikum Science Museum to learn about the local culture, geology and meteorology can be worth experiencing. Visiting a Sami reindeer farm or embarking on a picturesque skiing expedition under the tantalizing Northern Lights during winter also seems a breathtaking possibility!

Built around the late 18th century, Tampere was originally founded as an industrial settlement and is the third-largest town of the country. The sheer magnificence of the town being situated between the two scenic lakes of Nasijarvi and the Pyhajarvi and connected by a stretch of rapids called the Tammerkoski is bound to take your breath away. You can also indulge in the active cultural life by attending the traditional Tampere Jazz Happening or visit other festivals at the open-air theaters for which the town is famous. 

Set foot on the lands of the Vikings, by visiting Turku which is one of the oldest towns of the country with more than eight centuries of history. Fashioned as a traditional medieval town, Turku will inspire awe in you with its breathtaking Swedish Viking architecture and the old Gothic architectures of the Orthodox Church and the Medieval Cathedral. You can even observe the touch of modern architecture and Art Nouveau can be observed at the Sibelius Museum amid the tokens of medieval history. 

Lapland is Finland’s northernmost region, a sparsely populated area bordering Sweden, Norway, Russia and the Baltic Sea. It’s known for its vast subarctic wilderness, ski resorts and natural phenomena including the midnight sun and the Northern Lights. Capital Rovaniemi is the gateway to the region. The homeland of the indigenous Sami people, which extends into neighboring countries, centers on the far north.

The 16th-century castle built on the island of Linnansaari on the Oulujoki River saw the village of Oulu growing up, being gradually clustered around it. Visiting the extreme north of Oulu will lead you to the famous Botanic Garden and its east; you will locate the famous Tietomaa Science Center. Setting foot on the beautiful island of Ainola can be a tremendously enriching experience with a trip to the Provincial Museum and a park. You can also enthrall your senses by visiting the Hupisaari Island and paying a visit to the summer theater. 

When to Visit

Peak season.

Though the most popular time for Finland Tour stretches between June to August during the summer months, a chance of observing the magical Northern Lights happens between September to April. 

Travel Guide

Capital city, main airport, language spoken, electricity, vaccinations, emergency calls, faqs about finland, what is internet access like in finland.

Wi-fi and broadband internet access is free throughout Finland and can be browsed at reasonable to high speeds.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Finland?

You can use a mobile phone number from any EU country and use your data without paying any extra cost. 

What are the toilets like in Finland?

You will find standard toilets and urinals in Finland. Public toilets are accessible with the presence of soap and toilet paper. 

Can I drink the water in Finland?

The tap water in Finland is extremely pure and rich in taste and often purer than bottled water. 

Are credit cards widely accepted in Finland?

Finland accepts all credit cards of Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Diner’s Club.

What is ATM access like in Finland?

ATM access is managed by OTTO which is the country’s biggest interbank network.

What to wear in Finland?

Consider wearing thermal base layers and warm mid-layers like tops and vests, with a heavy-duty winter coat or Parka if you are planning Finland Tour during the winters. Don’t forget to pack in your warm hats, shoes, and gloves as well. 

Is Finland safe for women to travel solo?

Finland is friendly and safe for solo female travelers.

Helsinki time

Finland  by  FreeVectorMaps.com

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer)

Last Updated on January 31, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a perfect 5 to 7 days in Finland itinerary is a great experience if you’re searching for a European destination off the beaten path from traditional tourist-heavy routes. In unique proximity to Scandinavia, Russia, and the Baltics, Finland is saturated with rich history and culture and “the happiest people” in the world.

From cosmopolitan and sustainable Helsinki to the country’s oldest city, Turku, Finland is a country waiting to be explored with open arms. This itinerary will help you plan an ideal trip to Finland, exploring both cities and nature while discovering unique corners in between.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Finland?

Many potential visitors wonder how many days to spend in Finland in order to do this beautiful Nordic nation justice.

Finland is one of the largest countries in Europe, and with that being considered, there’s a great amount to visit. With that being said, I recommend a minimum of 5 days in Finland; this way you can visit and wander around Helsinki, but also manage to get to another city/town or two. 

On top of that, I believe that the ideal length of time to spend in Finland is around 1 week. With 7 full days in Finland, you’ll experience all that you can in 5 days, but also be able to go beyond.

You’ll truly be able to do the country justice, explore a few different regions of the country and go beyond major cities to further off regions, such as Finnish Lapland to perhaps visit a reindeer farm, go dog sledding or see the Northern Lights.

Getting To & Around Finland 

Getting to finland.

Regarding this particular itinerary, the best and most convenient option will be to first fly into the capital city of Helsinki.

Helsinki Vantaa Airport is the fourth largest Nordic airport by passenger numbers and has frequent routes year-round connecting Finland mainly to Europe but also intercontinental.

Due to the large airport and frequent flights, the Finnish capital is also typically a fairly affordable destination to fly into. You can get from the Helsinki airport to the city center by bus, train or private transfer.

Another unique option for those visiting Finland from neighboring Tallinn, Estonia or Stockholm, Sweden , is to reach Finland by ferry.

There are frequent ferry routes to/from each city and depending on your chosen journey, they can also be more affordable than flight transportation. You can browse ferry schedules here.

Getting Around Finland

When organising your transportation plans for getting around Finland, it’s important to keep in mind the time of year. This itinerary is best suited for the winter months, so unless you’re someone with at least some experience driving in wintery/snowy conditions, I’d recommend against driving.

For those that will be driving, the country is well-prepared for winter weather with cars equipped with the right winter tires so you don’t need to worry about anything out of the ordinary.

If you decide to opt-in to rent a car, I’d suggest only renting it for the time in Rovaniemi. Like most European and Nordic cities in particular, you’ll have an excellent public transportation system at hand to get around with and no necessity to rent a car whilst in the capital city. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices on car hire.

Helsinki is also an incredibly walkable city, with most sights and points of interest in close distance, you’ll find it a joy to walk around the pleasant capital Finnish city. 

Furthermore, the other destinations outside of Rovaniemi are easily accessible to Helsinki by bus and train. The last two days of the itinerary are in Finnish Lapland and with such a long drive from southern/central Finland (~10 hours), it would take a day out of your trip to drive.

Rovaniemi is the most “wild” part of the itinerary and having a car would be an advantage (especially if you’re determined to spot the Northern Lights), but it isn’t completely necessary. There are several car rental companies in Rovaniemi, both in the city and at the airport if you’re keen to drive during your time in Lapland. 

5 to 7-Day Finland Itinerary

Regardless of how long you have, you’ll find spending time in Finland to be a Nordic treasure. If you have 5 days, you’ll get to know Finland through its capital city, Helsinki, along with other authentic towns and major cities.

For those continuing onwards to a 7-day itinerary, you’ll make your way north to the wild Arctic Lapland region and its capital city of Rovaniemi where you can enjoy either incredible winter activities or, in the summer months, basque in the midnight sun. 

Day 1 – Arrive in Helsinki

The first 3 nights of this itinerary are spent in the capital city of Helsinki. Once arriving, you’ll likely first notice the beautiful and diverse architecture and styles painting the capital city.

The city is a unique blend of Finnish, Swedish, and Russian architecture – reflecting the deep history and heritage not just of Helsinki but also of Finland itself. 

Helsinki is a fairly small and compact city, which makes it convenient to see most of the main sights during day 1 of your time in Finland. Begin at the Senate Square in the center of the city (Kruununhaka neighborhood) to marvel at the stunning white Helsinki Cathedral along with the National Library of Finland. 

A short walk brings you to one of the most unique churches you’ll probably ever visit, the Temppeliaukio Church. Built within a solid rock, the church is a must-visit in Helsinki and for that reason, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Helsinki. 

For a taste of some of the best Finnish cuisine in the city along with affordable options, make sure to visit Helsinki Market Square & Old Market Hall. The market square is particularly special if you’re visiting Helsinki during the winter , where you’ll find a joyful Christmas market full of independent stands and vendors.

The Old Market Hall is the oldest market in Finland as well as the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional meal.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Bob W Kluuvi – This hotel is perfect for mid-range visitors. They have a great, central location for exploring the city along with plenty of great rooms to choose from and breakfast available in the mornings.

Hotel Mestari – This luxury hotel is perfect for those looking for a plush stay in the Finnish capital. They have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from, great amenities for guests to enjoy and a fantastic location for seeing all Helsinki has to offer.

The Yard Hostel – Those visiting Finland on a budget will love this cool hostel in the center of Helsinki. They have both private rooms and dorms to choose from along with good self-catering facilities and common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Helsinki hotels!

Day 2 –  Helsinki

After a wonderful first day exploring Helsinki and getting acquainted with Finland, a great way to continue your trip is by making a day trip to the Suomenlinna Fortress. This sea fortress also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Suomenlinna Fortress is situated on a group of 8 islands off of Helsinki and demonstrates key elements of Finnish history and independence from both Sweden and Russia. 

Suomenlinna is easily reached by a short 15-minute ferry ride (tickets are included within the Helsinki transport system) from Helsinki Market Square. 

Finland has a wonderful fashion scene, with both local and high-street shops with a big influence on sustainability. Pohjoisesplanadi, the main shopping street in the heart of Helsinki is about a kilometer long and is the perfect place to take a look at Finnish trends and maybe find a souvenir to bring home. 

Day 3 – Porvoo

On day 3, I suggested making a day trip to the nearby middle-aged town of Porvoo . Porvoo is best reached from Helsinki by bus, with just around an hour’s journey. I recommend booking with Omnibus, as buses are frequent (around every 10 minutes) and the system is reliable. Schedules can be found here. You can also book a guided tour .

Porvoo is a lovely little town giving a completely different feel to Finland than big-city Helsinki. The town is the second oldest in Finland and wandering through the old streets can’t be any more idyllic; especially in the snow during a Finland winter itinerary.

I recommend warming up with a hot chocolate at Petris Chocolate in the town center before heading back to Helsinki.

Day 4 – Turku

After spending 3 nights in Helsinki, make your way to the charming Finnish archipelago city of Turku. Turku is easily reached by train from Helsinki in just under 2 hours and train schedules and booking can be found here . 

The city of Turku was founded almost 800 years ago and is a unique must-visit on any visit to Finland. With the Aura River meeting the archipelago as the centerpiece for Turku, you’ll find the city to be an exciting destination full of soul and history as it was once Finland’s capital city before Helsinki. 

Stop by the 13th-century Turku Castle to get a better insight into Finnish Heritage in its oldest town as well as the Turku Cathedral, which also happens to be the seat of the Archbishop of Finland. 

If you’re visiting in the summer, a great way to enjoy Finland’s bountiful nature is to take a ferry to the Turku Archipelago. Spending the day in the long daylight is best spent wandering the trails, taking a dip in the water, and discovering the archipelago’s 40,000 tiny islands by bicycle. 

For a meal with a nice ambiance, the riverside area has wonderful restaurants with gorgeous views no matter the time of the year that you visit.

Where to Stay in Turku

Centro Hotel Turku – This hotel in central Turku is an excellent choice for those after a mid-range option in this Finnish city. They have myriad great rooms to choose from and a lovely breakfast available in the mornings.

Solo Sokos Hotel Turun Seurahuone – Located in the center of Turku, this hotel is a great choice for those who want something a bit more high-end while visiting Finland. They have a range of rooms to choose from, fantastic amenities and an on-site restaurant/bar.

Forenom Aparthotel Turku – This aparthotel is great for those who want their own flat but don’t want to sacrifice the convenience of a traditional hotel. There are a range of apartments on offer and they also have a great, central location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Turku hotels!

Day 5 – Tampere

On your 5th day in Finland, a quick hour-and-a-half train from Turku will bring you on a day trip to the quirky city of Tampere. Tampere is the second biggest city in Finland with a lot to offer but is regularly missed by tourists, making it a great destination for any trip to Finland off the beaten path.

Tampere is the sauna capital of Finland, with over 50 public Finnish saunas waiting for you to relax and rejuvenate in the Finnish style. If you’re looking to tick visiting Finland’s oldest sauna off of your travel list, head to Rajaportti Sauna to experience a sauna heated by wood in the most traditional method.

The city is full of unique and exciting museums such as the Moomin Museum, the quintessential destination for any lover of the Moomin cartoon world. Another great museum option in Tampere for a particular perspective on Finnish culture and social history is Werstas – The Finnish Labour Museum

During your time in Tampere, make sure not to miss the largest Market Hall in all of the Nordics , Tampere Market Hall. This is the perfect destination to sample quintessential Finnish delicacies in a pleasant spot with friendly locals and authentic Finnish food.

If you’re spending just 5 days on you trip, this is the last day of your Finland trip. There is an airport in Tampere with a handful of European connections, making it a convenient ending if you can leave from Tampere. Otherwise, take the train back to Helsinki to continue onward.

For those continuing onward to the city of Rovaniemi in Lapland, the best transportation options from Tampere are to either return to Helsinki to fly to Rovaniemi or take an overnight train/bus from Tampere. 

Day 6 – Rovaniemi, Lapland

The last two days of your Finland travel itinerary will be spent in Finland’s largest region, enchanting and magical Lapland.

While also an ideal destination for the summer months because of the incredible nature and lush boreal forests of the northern Finnish region, it’s hard to find any travel destination more perfect in winter than Lapland. 

When planning accommodation, the costs of Lapland nature-surrounded hotels are much higher than in the center of Rovaniemi, it enhances the fairytale Lapland experience if you can afford the cost. 

The city of Rovaniemi is quite small in comparison to most other Nordic and Finnish cities, but it feels like an entirely different world in itself. To learn more about Arctic and Lappish culture, science, and history, head to the Arktikum Museum for a perfect taster to educate you for the rest of your time in Lapland. 

Rovaniemi is the main hub for most activities in the area and they’re plentiful. Whether you’re interested in taking a cosy reindeer sleigh ride in the Arctic forest or an Aurora Borealis expedition with a cup of hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone.

The majority of tour and activity groups leave from Rovaniemi with pick-up from surrounding hotels, making it an effortless trip if you decide not to rent a car to explore Rovaniemi, Lapland. 

If you’re visiting Lapland and following this itinerary in the summertime, it’s a completely different atmosphere but still incredibly special in its own right. From long days spent exploring Lapland’s wildly deep nature and forests to midnight-sun bonfire nights, summer in Lapland is truly special as well.

Where to Stay in Rovaniemi

Arctic Light Hotel – This modern hotel in Rovaniemi, this is a great base for exploring Lapland. There are several chic rooms to choose from, an airport shuttle, free parking and a superb breakfast.

Santa’s Igloos Arctic Circle – The perfect arctic escape, the glass igloos located outside of Rovaniemi are excellent for a unique visit. They have several different pods on offer, a great restaurant, room service and other amenities.

Hostel Cafe Koti – A good budget option in Rovaniemi, this hip hostel has both dorms and private rooms, a bar and cafe on site, a sauna and good self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Rovaniemi hotels!

Day 7 – Santa Claus Village

One of the most popular attractions when visiting Rovaniemi, Lapland is the magnificent world of Santa Claus Village.

Santa Claus Village is just about a 10-minute drive (or 20-minute bus ride) outside of Rovaniemi city center and is a must-visit magical stop while in Rovaniemi, for both adults and children. You can also take a guided tour  from Rovaniemi.

The village is a large wonderland, full of activities from ice skating and sledding to visits at the husky park and postcards and a meeting with Santa at Santa’s workshop. You’ll find conveniently placed fire pits throughout the village and the village’s forest area to warm up if you decide to walk among the snow-dressed Arctic trees.

The official boundaries of the Arctic Circle run through Santa’s Village and even though it’s just a line, it’s truly thrilling to pass back and forth through the Arctic Circle! 

Food options are plentiful in the village no matter your budget or preferences; from cafeteria-style food to classic Lappish food (I recommend the open-fire cooked salmon!) in a traditional hut. 

With so much joy and winter wonderland from just around every corner, it’s easy to spend a long day at Santa’s Village. It’s also safe to say that there’s no better send-off from a trip to Finland than heading to the snowy paradise of your childhood dreams. 

If you’re visiting in the winter, you may be able to find a return flight from Rovaniemi depending on the city, but otherwise, return to Helsinki to wrap up a marvelous week in Finland.

Have More Time?

In the case that you are drawn to the Lapland region and would like to explore further, I highly suggest heading further north to experience the region on a deeper level in the resort town of Levi.

In Levi, you can hit the slopes and ski on Finland’s biggest ski slopes, search further for the Northern Lights with a higher chance of seeing them, and find yourself in further bewilderment by Finland’s stunning natural beauty. 

On top of that, if you want to continue your trip and are looking to go beyond Finland, Swedish Lapland is just over the border with more outdoor adventures waiting for you.

Finnish Lapland is a lot more “developed” and touristy in comparison with Swedish Lapland, so if you’re interested in experiencing more of a local experience in Lapland, Swedish Lapland is a great way to continue your trip. 

A Finland trip undoubtedly has something for all kinds of travelers, whether you’re a city-seeker or someone happiest among nature. With this Finland itinerary, you’ll see all aspects of Finland, giving the perfect representation of this dynamically beautiful, and kind country. 

Are you planning a trip to Finland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Helsinki Itinerary

Is Finland Expensive? A Finland Trip Cost Guide

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Hi, Olivia: Thank you so much for sharing! It does make my coming Finland travel plan clearly. I am wondering how about Levi in Summer, and do you have any suggestions about summer in Rovaniemi?

With many thanks Sherry

Love the very informative initinery. Will certainly follow it. Planning to go in November 2023. Bravo!

Very very informative, thanks Olivia

Very very helpful review. We hope to have a family trip to Finland and these suggestions were terrific.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Work With Me

• Sierra Leone
• South Africa
• United States
• New Zealand
• Falkland Islands
• Netherlands
• Accommodation
• Electrical Gear
• Essential Gear
• Working Abroad
• Blogging Resources

Europe , FINLAND , Western Europe

Ultimate 1 week finland itinerary.

So you’re looking to travel to Finland, but don’t know where in the country to spend your time?

Well you’ve come to the right place!

Following my fabulous trip to this country, I’m now bringing you my ultimate Finland itinerary with all the info you need to have an amazing week in this country.

From where to go, what to see and do while you’re there, through to how to travel between destinations and where to stay, this is the full lowdown on the ideal 1 week Finland itinerary…

Related Posts

• What Is It Like Staying in a Glass Igloo?
• 15 Things to Know Before You Travel Finland
• How to Plan the Best Christmas Trip to Lapland

Intro to this Finland Itinerary

Needless to say, you could easily spend a lot longer in Finland than a week and, with so much to see in this country, there’s no question you’d have a wonderful time doing just that.

However given the price of travelling in Finland, which it must be said is not unsubstantial! – you can learn more in this post I wrote about the costs of a week-long trip here – there’s not many travellers that tend to spend much longer in this country… even if they’d like to.

For a week really is a great time to get a wonderful flavour for Finland and to balance this against the costs of travelling here.

A week is also enough if visiting Finland as part of a longer Scandinavian trip – because there’s so much to see in this gorgeous region of Europe, that spending longer in one part will deny you the chance to see other amazing areas.

And so, once again it’s a question of balance.

With all this in mind, I thought a 1 week itinerary would be the best timeframe for a destination guide to this amazing country, although I have made suggestions for if you have longer too.

And on that note, here’s the ultimate 1 week Finland itinerary…

It’s arrival day, the day when you fly into Helsinki, so depending what time you get there will depend how much of the city you can see on day 1.

When it comes to arriving into Helsinki you’re probably going to get there by flying – arriving into the international airport (IATA code: HEL), which is a short distance from the capital’s centre.

Both Finnair, British Airways and a host of other airlines arrive into HEL and you can get the best prices by checking Skyscanner .

Once you arrive into Helsinki airport, it’s easy to catch public transport into the city centre and your accommodation.

Check out my list of the top 10 Helsinki Airbnbs if you want some self-catering accommodation, otherwise Hotel F6 , Hotel Helka or Scandic Helsinki Hub are great choices in this city.

Once again, depending what time you arrive, it might be nice to stroll around the area near your accommodation, before cracking on with a full day of sightseeing the next day.

Otherwise, with a longer amount of your time up your sleeve, you can begin ticking some of the top Helsinki attractions off your list – head to my day 2 tips to see what these are…

This is the day to tick some major sightseeing in Finland’s capital, Helsinki, off your list.

Thankfully, Helsinki has a very small city centre (home to just over half a million people) and is easy to navigate and enjoy on foot as part of a long jampacked day.

When it comes to museums, the top ones to see in this city are the National Museum, the Design Museum, the HAM Art Museum and the Amos Rex.

Following this, you should certainly head to see some of Helsinki’s iconic buildings including the Finlandia Hall, the National Theatre, the Central Library, the Government building and the Senate Square.

Many of these you can enter and explore, or else you can carry on to explore some of the city’s religious buildings including the Rock Church, the Chapel of Silence, the Helsinki Cathedral, the impressive St John’s and the Russian-influenced Uspenski Cathedral.

Don’t miss the statues of Havis Amanda and Marshal Mannerheim too while you’re at it!

For a refresher and some different after all the sightseeing, why not head to one of Helsinki’s main shopping streets, including Aleksanterinkatu, where you can visit the classic Finnish café, Fazer, and enjoy an elegant coffee and lots of chocolate!

Or, if you want something more substantial, then the Green Hippo group of cafes are a great veggie / vegan friendly option in Helsinki, as well as Fafa’s – something of a Finnish healthy-eating institution.

In the afternoon, it’s then all about heading out on a ferry into the bay of Helsinki to explore the UNESCO-listed fortress on the island of Suomenlinna .

On your way to the ferry (you can buy tickets there or use your public transport card), wander through the lovely Market Square and marvel at the bathers dipping in the ice-cold water (during winter at least) at Allas Sea Pool.

Then spend the rest of the day exploring the island of Suomenlinna, including the 2km walking trail around the island, which gives some stunning coastal views.

Head back to Helsinki and the trendy district of Punavuori for a casual dinner at local favourite Skiffer , followed by some drinks.

On day 3 of your Finland itinerary, it’s time to take a day trip out of the capital to see some of the beautiful areas around Helsinki.

And top of this day trip list is to Porvoo.

Thought to be the oldest town in Finland, dating back to the Medieval times, it’s the painted traditional buildings which are most famous here.

A fairytale spot, with old houses, cobbled streets, a historic cathedral and some charming small museums, taking a walking tour is a great way to explore this quintessential destination.

Otherwise, Porvoo offers some adventures in the natural world too.

With forests, rivers, parks, the sea and a number of islands all easily accessible from Porvoo, there’s loads of nature trails, not to mention kayaking opps, cycling possibilities and river cruises to enjoy in and around the town too.

From Helsinki, it takes around an hour to get to Porvoo either via the bus or by driving.

Alternatively, you can also take a guided tour here, which is probably the easiest and least stress-free option. Check out this half-day activity , which includes a full tour of the Old Town there.

More Time for Helsinki?

Why not extend this Finland itinerary by exploring more parts of the capital, including the local districts of Kallio and Vallila (home to some gorgeous and historic painted wooden houses), which both lie just outside the centre of the city.

Presuming you do only have a week in Finland and need to motor on, it’s time to head to your next destination on day 4 of your Finland itinerary.

A destination which is in the iconic north of the country… it is, of course, the fabled spot of Lapland!

Situated pretty far away, I’ve written a full post about how to travel from Helsinki to Lapland here , which I recommend you check out for the full lowdown.

After reading that post, you’ll also have decide where exactly in Lapland you want to head, as this region is huge and pretty spread out.

With a number of different resorts and towns to choose from, my top picks based on attractions and accessibility are Rovaniemi, Inari, Ivalo, Levi and Kemi

Check out these top-rated accommodation options in Rovaniemi if you want to stay near the official Santa Claus Village, otherwise if you need any more help deciding, check out this post I wrote about how to holiday in Lapland for less , or consider out my fav spot of Ranua.

Off the beaten track, Ranua is a great spot to get away from the tourist crowds and really will allow you to experience a truly authentic Finnish town, whilst still enjoying all the wonderful activities Lapland has to offer.

Accommodation-wise there, check out either Arctic Guesthouse & Igloos or Ranua Resort Holiday Villas for your stay here.

Anyway, once you do decide which part of Lapland you’re heading for, you can either take a long train journey (either during the day or overnight) to get there, or hop on a domestic flight up there.

Even the domestic flights, which are operated by Finnair, take an hour, so once you add in the check-in time, travel time to the airport and luggage collection, this is still a fairly sizeable travel day.

What this means is that even if you leave Helsinki in the morning, you’re not likely to arrive into Lapland until the afternoon, when you then have to settle into your new accommodation and this very different part of Finland.

If you’re travelling during winter and hiring snow gear in Lapland, then you’ll likely want to get this sorted following your arrival too.

And, if you still have some time left in the day, and the forecast is looking favourable, you may want to undertake a Northern Lights tour during your first evening in Lapland too!

Only possible during the winter months, just make sure you check the local Aurora app first – many parts of Lapland have their own free apps and this is a great way to ensure you undertake (and pay for) a Northern Lights tour, when you actually have the best chance of seeing them!

Day 5 & 6:

You now have 2 full days in Lapland stretching ahead of you and it pays to know that the time of year you’re visiting will hugely influence what sort of activities you get to enjoy.

For more details, check out my list of the top 10 things to do in Lapland , which details all my fav ones plus some of the iconic others, that take place during the winter months, which is when most people travel to Finland.

If you’re tight on a budget, then keeping your activities to a minimum is a great way to avoid costs spiralling out of control, so it really does pay to do your research and make your selections ahead of time.

As a base, 2-3 activities a day is plenty, as don’t forget enjoying a sauna, rolling in the snow or generally taking in the beauty of the landscape is delightful in and of itself.

Although that said, husky sledding or snowmobiling is hard to top!

Check out these top picks for more ideas…

• Ranua Wildlife Park Guided Tour
• Apukka Husky Adventure from Rovaniemi
• Northern Lights Wilderness Tour with Camera

Thankfully, seeing Santa can be done at his official home in Rovaniemi for free.

Otherwise, if you undertake this Finland itinerary during the summer months, there’s lots of great hiking, lake swimming, boating and cycling to enjoy in the never-ending daylight you get this far north during May through July.

And finally, on your last day in Finland, it’s time to wrap up your Lapland activities and sadly head home.

If you’ve booked return flights, then you can head back to Helsinki and continue your adventures from there.

Otherwise, there are some international flights straight out of Lapland to some major European destinations, including London, which means if you’re heading home from Lapland and ending your Finland itinerary, this might be a better option for you.

More Time for Finland?

You can either explore more of Lapland, including the ski resorts further north or return to Helsinki and head out of the city to explore the middle lake regions of Finland, which have some stunning scenery and delightful walking opps.

Just enter your details below and I'll email it you - simple!

Information will be sent to the email provided above

Mini Travel Guide to Finland

When to Visit Finland?

In my opinion, the best time to enjoy your Finland Itinerary is definitely during the winter months between December and February, this is when you’ll see the most beautiful snow coverage and get this winter wonderland at its most scenic.

Visit Finland during December for the full festive experience, or consider January or February for cheaper winter rates, albeit with lower temperatures.

How to Travel to Finland?

Direct flights with Finnair from Helsinki arrive at all the Lapland airports – yes there’s more than one. Learn more in this article I wrote.

Otherwise, you can also fly direct to Lapland’s main airport from London and a few other major European cities.

From the best deals on all flights, I highly suggest checking out Skyscanner .

5 Essential Packing Items for a Finland Winter Trip

• Good Camera
• Thermal Socks
• Hand & Feet Warmers

Learn more in this article I wrote all about what to pack for a winter trip to Finland .

Travel Insurance for Finland

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there it is, my ultimate Finland itinerary for 1 week travelling in this country.

Hopefully, it will help you enjoy an amazing trip to this country like I did.

Have you got any suggestions to add to the itinerary?

Don’t hesitate to drop them into the comments below… I’d love to hear them!

This page contains affiliate links meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

4 thoughts on “ Ultimate 1 Week Finland Itinerary ”

I loved your article on 1 week itinerary to see highlights of Finland . Thanks.

Great to hear Vilas! Many thanks for your comments, best wishes Steph 🙂

I loved reading your Finland itinerary! It’s given me so many ideas for things to do when I visit Finland next winter. I’m especially interested in visiting Helsinki Cathedral, taking a sauna, going on a dog sledding tour, and seeing the Northern Lights. Thanks for sharing your tips and recommendations!

So great to hear this Ferida… enjoy! Steph 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Deals of the Week   Green Hikes & Treks   Up to 50% OFF

Finland Tours & Trips

Home to saunas, Santa Claus and the Northern Lights , it's not hard to see why Finland is named the Happiest Country in the World. Whether you want to ride a reindeer through the snow-filled forests of Lapland, celebrate the summer solstice at a Midsummer Festival in Helsinki, or be immersed by the tranquillity of the Finnish Lakeland, the cold weather is contrasted by warm locals who have a glass of glögi with your name on it. Combine your adventure of Finland with a Norway and Sweden vacation package for a true Nordic experience.

139 Finland tour packages with 384 reviews

• Northern Lights

Midnight Sun – 7 Days in Lapland

Our experience with Nordic Unique was great. As a little older group some tours did not appeal to us and they were great about rearranging the itinerary. There could have been a little more communication prior to the trip. I would also suggest some kayaks at the lake. Our guide Matthias (Niales) was awesome!! He was patient, kind, knowledgeable and a great cook.

• In-depth Cultural

Small Group Helsinki and South Karelia in 5 days (Guaranteed departure)

This was a lovely tour that I would recommend to anyone who is new to Finland. Everything was easy. Transfer drivers were on time at each stop. Alex, the tour director, made everyone feel welcome and important. His knowledge of the Nordic and Baltic states is amazing. And he seems to be fluent in just about every European language. The local Helsinki guide (I’m embarrassed to say I forget her name) was also knowledgeable and very happy to answer questions. The train rides to Lappeenranta and back were very comfortable. In Lappeenranta I was particularly spoiled as I was the only person for this leg of the tour, so I had the guide to myself. Arja was a delight. As a long time resident and business owner of the town, she knew it inside out. We strolled like old friends through the streets and pathways as I soaked up the beautiful scenery, culture and history of the this beautiful land. I would highly recommend this tour for the relaxing and informative time it provides.

• $120 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Magic of Finland & Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo

• Hiking & Trekking

Hike and Craft in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu

Finnish Lapland in Winter

Excellent trip in the wonderful outdoors!

Highlights of Helsinki & Lappeenranta - 5 Days

Helsinki & South Karelia Express - 5 Day

Looking for tours beyond just finland.

Explore tours with itineraries going through multiple countries, including Finland.

Rovaniemi (Apukka area): The northern lights - 7 days

Tailor-Made Finland Adventure to Lapland

Tolle und eindrückliche Reise

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Activity holiday in Koli National Park

• Educational

Autumn Adventure in Kuusamo

The trip was fun, and it was a very cool experience overall.

Canoe Expedition in Lapland

Helsinki - Turku - Tampere

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow

Finnish Lapland Winter Family Holiday

• Kayak & Canoe

Canoeing escape into the Wilderness in Finland, 105km

What people love about finland tours, finland destinations.

• Lapland (55)
• Arctic / North Pole (51)
• Finland Northern Lights (10)
• Northern Lights (6)

Travel Styles

• Small Group (51)
• Singles and Solo (62)
• For Couples (25)
• Seniors (32)
• Explorer (71)
• Family (61)
• Fully Guided (59)
• Personalized (59)
• Partially Guided (43)
• Active (39)
• Private (39)
• Self-Guided (31)
• Northern Lights (27)
• In-depth Cultural (14)
• Intl. Flights Included (13)
• Hiking & Trekking (9)
• Self Drive (6)
• 3 Day Tours (5)
• 7 Day Tours (59)
• 10 Day Tours (28)
• Spring 2024 (32)
• Summer 2024 (49)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (40)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (51)
• Spring 2025 (37)
• Summer 2025 (7)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (7)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (12)
• April 2024 (18)
• May 2024 (31)
• June 2024 (43)
• July 2024 (35)
• August 2024 (46)
• September 2024 (31)
• October 2024 (27)
• November 2024 (32)
• December 2024 (43)
• January 2025 (32)
• February 2025 (38)
• March 2025 (35)
• April 2025 (14)
• May 2025 (8)
• June 2025 (7)
• July 2025 (7)
• August 2025 (7)
• September 2025 (7)
• October 2025 (7)
• November 2025 (8)

Finland Tours starting in

• Starting in Helsinki (24)
• Starting in Rovaniemi (17)
• Starting in Kuusamo (11)
• Starting in Stockholm (5)
• Finland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

• Deutsch: Finnland Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits et voyages en Finlande
• Español: Circuitos y viajes por Finlandia
• Nederlands: Finland Rondreizen

Finland Tours & Vacations

With winter skies painted in dancing lights, a capital city steeped in Nordic culture and plenty of chic Scandinavian style, there's much more to this northern gem than snow and saunas.

Our Finland trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Finland tour reviews

Filter by rating

Finnish Lapland in Winter

Articles of Finland

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

Sweden or Finland? Which country should you travel to first?

Why to consider solo travel in Scandinavia (and what to expect)

7 new destinations to explore with Intrepid in 2018

5 reasons Finnish Lapland should be on your bucket list

How to budget travel in Scandinavia

Finland at a glance

Capital city.

Helsinki (pop: 631,000)

5.5 million

Finnish, Swedish

(GMT+02:00) Helsinki, Kyiv, Riga, Sofia, Tallinn, Vilnius

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Finland

Best time to visit finland.

Finland has pleasant summers, with July being the warmest month (temperatures usually average around 59°F).

Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking and fishing are popular during summer and spring.

In Lapland midsummer is also the time of the midnight sun, a phenomenon where the sun barely sets.

Winter runs from November to March and during this time expect plenty of snowfall - perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and sledding. With temperatures regularly hitting -4°F, Finland's winters are particularly cold, so pack accordingly if traveling at this time.

Geography and environment

Finland is home to large tracts of forest, a multitude of pure lakes and hundreds of islands, making it one of nature's most blessed landscapes.

The north of Finland (known as Lapland) is characterized by relatively flat terrain, demarcated by long rivers and due to its Arctic location, extreme snowfall and ice can be found, particularly in winter.

Bordering   Sweden ,   Norway   and   Russia , Finland also has long stretches of coastline along the Baltic Sea, the Gulf of Finland and the Gulf of Bothnia.

The coastal areas are home to thousands of rocky islands (which are mostly uninhabited) while the interior of the country is dominated by forests and lakes.

Top 5 culinary delights of Finland

1. karelian pasty.

This traditional, savory pie can be found widely throughout Finland. Featuring a rye crust filled with rice and served with egg and butter, this is a simple yet tasty snack ideal for vegetarians.

Finland is home to some of the world's best fresh produce, and the variety of berries on offer is astounding. Blessed with ideal climatic conditions for berry-growing, visitors can expect to snap up superior tasting, fresh cloudberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and lingonberries, See them offered fresh at markets and shops, served alongside meals in sauces, jams and spreads or baked in delicious pies.

3. Kaalikaaryleet

These baked cabbage rolls are a standard entry on most Finnish restaurant menus. Featuring ground beef, rice, onion and cream wrapped in cabbage rolls and served with cranberry or lingonberry sauce, they may be hard to pronounce but they sure are easy to eat.

4. Graavilohi

Finland has a proud heritage steeped in fishing, so it's no surprise that the quality of seafood is very high. This simple meal of salted salmon doesn't need any dressings or condiments as the pure, natural flavors of the salmon are the main attraction.

These sweet bread treats have numerous varieties, from cinnamon, to almonds and raisins. Typically eaten with a coffee, pulla are an inexpensive cafe snack - a great, budget choice in a notoriously expensive country.

Further reading

Similar destinations.

Sweden or Finland?

Finland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is tipping customary in Finland?

Tipping isn't customary or expected in Finland and is generally left up to the discretion of the customer. If the service in a café or restaurant is exceptional, feel free to leave spare change or a small tip.

What is the internet access like in Finland?

Travelers should be able to access the internet at cyber cafés and Wi-Fi hot spots in Finland's major cities and towns. Remote and rural areas will have less internet availability, so be prepared for this when traveling out of the city.

Can I use my cell phone while in Finland?

As the home of Nokia, cell phone coverage is generally very good in Finland. Travelers should activate global roaming before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Finland?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the standard in Finland.

What will it cost for a…?

Cup of coffee = 3-4 Euro Bottle of beer = 4-6 Euro Bottle of mid-range wine = 10-12 Euro Basic café lunch = 10-15 Euro Dinner at a mid-range restaurant = 20-30 Euro

Can I drink the water in Finland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Finland?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops and hotels in Finland. Smaller vendors may not accept credit cards, so carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Finland?

ATMs are commonly found in Finland's cities and urban areas. Remote regions will have less ATM availability, so prepare accordingly before traveling away from cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Finland?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 6 Jan Epiphany
• 14 Apr Good Friday
• 16 Apr Easter Sunday
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 1 May May Day
• 25 May Ascension Day
• 4 Jun Whit Sunday
• 24 Jun Midsummer Day
• 4 Nov All Saints' Day
• 6 Dec Independence Day
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec 2nd Day of Christmas

Please note these dates are for 2022. For a current list of public holidays in Finland go to:   http://www.worldtravelguide.net/finland/public-holidays

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

MORE FROM FORBES

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Finland Is Expanding Its Luxury Appeal

Five-star hotels in Helsinki and Champagne excursions in Lapland are just some of the indications that the country’s approach to tourism is changing.

By Penelope Colston

Reporting from Helsinki, Finland

When construction at the Hotel Maria is completed in June, 159 chandeliers will hang from the ceilings of its 79 rooms, 38 suites and public areas. Its bar will serve 31 types of Champagne. And the renovations on its four buildings — two of which opened in December — will have included the restoration of 42 kilometers (26 miles) of original moldings.

Those are just some of the things that will distinguish the Maria as a “true five-star city hotel,” according to Heli Mende, its commercial director.

The Finnish capital is no stranger to luxury. It already has several high-end hotels, including Hotel Kamp and the St. George. There are upscale boutiques and department stores; the Palace restaurant, which has two Michelin stars; and a handful of other single-star spots. (In May, the city is scheduled to host the 2024 Michelin Guide ceremony for the Nordic region.)

And to the north, in Lapland, the country has a robust tourism operation that includes luxury services and accommodations such as clear glass igloos to shelter guests as they sip Champagne and gaze at the night sky, waiting for a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

But this country of about five and a half million, which is between Sweden to the west and Russia to the east, has historically lacked the sort of elaborate luxury infrastructure found in other European cities or global hubs such as Singapore; Dubai, the United Arab Emirates; and New York City.

“Partly this is due to the fact that Finland is not very hierarchical as a culture and, for example, income differences have traditionally been small,” said Juri Maki, the chief executive of the Helsinki research firm Red Note, which in 2018 did an extensive study on the travel industry’s perceptions of Finland and its luxury offerings. “Because of this, this style of culture is not very characteristic of Finland.”

Among international travelers, he said, Finland’s greatest strength “is certainly not in outwardly visible, classic luxury,” but rather in the unusual experiences available in its pristine outdoors — like evenings in the glass igloos.

Finns themselves cherish solitude and are famous for avoiding small talk with strangers. “The ultimate compliment is to offer luxury and to leave people alone to enjoy it,” wrote Stephen Lee, an American who has lived in the country for 24 years and worked with luxury brands in communications and marketing. “Where Americans expect high amounts of service, chatting and even humor, Finns find this to be intrusive.”

And they do not reward what others might call routine attentiveness — in restaurants, for example — because tipping is virtually nonexistent in a country where luxury sector jobs have historically paid a livable wage.

Samppa Lajunen, a Finnish athlete turned real estate investor, understood the different perspectives, but research by Samla Capital Oy, the real estate investment firm that he founded, showed Helsinki lacked hotels for tourists seeking “international-level luxury,” he wrote in an email.

“Finland and Helsinki are interesting travel destinations,” said Mr. Lajunen, a three-time Olympic gold medalist in the Nordic combined, an event that includes cross-country skiing and ski jumping. “So I didn’t see the real reason for that.”

To create the hotel, Mr. Lajunen assembled a team of designers and hospitality experts and added his own expertise as an athlete who has stayed in luxury hotels around the world. He also did some of what he called “mystery shopping” at Paris and London hotels. “We benchmarked brands like Ritz, Peninsula, Four Seasons and La Reserve for inspiration.”

Renovations, which began in 2020, united three 19th-century buildings and one constructed in 1930, structures that previously had been used as barracks for high-ranking military and, for a time, part of the agricultural ministry. The guest rooms have ceilings as high as four meters; some have king-size beds with thick mattress pads and box springs (Finns tend to sleep on thin mattresses). And many of the suite bathrooms include lounge chairs, saunas and steam rooms. (Rooms start at 25 square meters and 402 euros, or $435, a night; top-tier suites can be as much as €6,004 a night.)

And the hotel was named for Empress Maria Feodorovna of Russia, who was born Princess Dagmar of Denmark in 1847. As the young, stylish consort of Alexander III, she often visited the Finnish capital to escape life in the Russian court and was beloved by its people.

The décor features neutral hues and white marble, accented by modern lighting; Finnish art, including work by the visual artist Pia Feinik; and indoor greenery. There are two restaurants — Lilja, which the hotel website describes as inspired by French cuisine but Finnish at heart, and the Garden Terrace, a brasserie-style offering — as well as a spa where guests can explore treatment options with a wellness concierge.

Ms. Mende, the commercial director, said the hotel’s initial guests included some wedding parties and neighbors from the surrounding Kruununhaka neighborhood, the city’s oldest residential district. “They have been watching the construction for so many years,” she said. “I think they were all curious to come and see.”

She said the first trickle of international tourists, mostly from elsewhere in Europe and the United States, had begun arriving in February, when the city was still blanketed in snow and ice.

Soon the Hotel Maria will not be the only new luxury offering in the city. About a kilometer away, Hotel Kamp, long considered Helsinki’s finest hotel, is undergoing a €100 million refurbishment that is expected to be complete in 2026. The work, which is being done while the hotel continues to receive guests, includes upgrading its technological infrastructure and redesigning its 179 rooms.

And an hour’s drive to the north, Villa Stenberg, a converted lakeside farmhouse, recently beat out a château near Cannes, France, and a villa nestled in an olive grove in Bari, Italy, to be called Europe’s top Airbnb wedding venue .

Could Finland become a destination for international luxury seekers?

That would be unlikely, said Mr. Maki, the researcher, but the country is experiencing a lot of growth in its network of luxury providers, stretching from the capital to Lapland. “This network is really important, in that we are able to maintain a level of luxury throughout the country.”

Since he moved to Finland from Uganda in 2003, the furniture and home goods designer Lincoln Kayiwa said he had seen luxury offerings in Helsinki evolve to include tasting menus, celebrity chefs and international cuisine.

“Finns are not obnoxious when it comes to wealth,” he said. “But having, for example, gold leaf on your ice cream is something that is no longer out of reach or considered over-the-top here.”

Eager to get a peek at Hotel Maria’s extensive collection of chandeliers by the British designer Timothy Oulton, Mr. Kayiwa readily met friends for drinks when the hotel first opened in December.

“It was somewhere you could lose yourself,” he said. “It definitely felt like you were somewhere else — maybe in a large city like Hong Kong, but not Helsinki.”

Explore Our Style Coverage

The latest in fashion, trends, love and more..

Is Humanity Out of Fashion?:  After a time of relative stability, fashion is in a period of uncertainty  because of broader political and economic forces. Or is it simply a generational passing of the torch?

Boots, Backpack and a Ubiquitous App:  Fourteen years and one Apple App of the Year award in, AllTrails has become something rare : a tool that works for both experts and newbies.

Alan Cumming’s Outsider Cabaret:  The 59-year-old actor, who revels in doing “weird things all the time,” brings his cabaret show  about aging to New York.

Gisele Bündchen on Healthy Eating: The supermodel opens up  about life in Miami and her new cookbook, “Nourish.”

Does the Peace Sign Stand a Chance?:  For a younger generation, the once-powerful protest symbol  packs about as much of a punch as a smiley face.

New York City’s Easter Parade:  A recurring cast of milliners and costumed spectators trading nods with the more casual participants — who found creative ways to create their own grand impressions  — was a particular delight to see.

Subscribe Now! Get features like

• Latest News
• Entertainment
• Real Estate
• RR vs RCB Live Score
• Election Schedule 2024
• Win iPhone 15
• IPL 2024 Schedule
• IPL Points Table
• IPL Purple Cap
• IPL Orange Cap
• Bihar Board Results
• The Interview
• Web Stories
• Virat Kohli
• Mumbai News
• Bengaluru News
• Daily Digest

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 travel guide: 5 tips for navigating crowds and booking affordable getaways

Get ready to make the most of eid-ul-fitr 2024 with our essential travel tips, designed to help you navigate crowds and secure budget-friendly getaways..

It's that time of year again! Muslims will be celebrating Eid al-Fitr on April 10 with much fanfare and excitement after a month of fasting. Millions of people will be travelling to celebrate with friends and family, so it's important to plan ahead and shop around for the best deals to ensure a stress-free holiday . Typically, many of us will be travelling home for this joyous day (called 'mudik' in Indonesian). So, are you one of those making travel arrangements for this Eid ? Travelling during the holidays means more traffic at train stations, airports, etc. While travelling during Eid can be hectic and stressful, you can avoid the airport crowds and enjoy a hassle-free trip if you prepare in advance. (Also read: Eid-ul-Fitr 2024 travel: From Saudi Arabia to Indonesia, 7 top destinations to experience festive vibes )

Travel tips for Eid-ul-Fitr 2024

Here are some insights and recommendations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience during this festive season.

1. Book Your Accommodation in Advance

Extended Eid celebrations are often hectic and packed with activities, with hotels, resorts and other hospitality venues booking up well in advance. We recommend that you book your accommodation as far in advance as possible if you want to be sure that your family will have a place to stay when they come to visit. This will help to avoid disappointment at the hotel of your choice. Similarly, if you are planning to visit another country in the Middle East or further afield, it is essential that you make your reservations well in advance.

2. Take Care of Your Personal Belongings

The Eid holidays offer a welcome break from our daily routines, which often involve long periods away from home. If you are travelling, you may be away from home for several days. Make sure your home is safe. Remember to switch off the oven and secure doors and gates. In order to preserve electricity and avoid short circuits, be sure that certain electronic gadgets are turned off. Do you commute by public transport? No problem. But remember to keep an eye on your belongings. To make sure nothing is left behind or taken by someone else, keep an eye on what you bring with you.

3. Browse For Good Eid al-Fitr Deals

In order to spark interest and draw customers for the Eid al-Fitr holidays, a large number of eateries and lodging options in the United Arab Emirates and the larger Middle Eastern region provide alluring offers and exclusive discounts. Check out your favourite restaurants, entertainment venues and accommodation providers' websites and social media pages for exclusive offers and promotions to maximise your savings.

4. Pack Light

When you are travelling over the Eid holiday, try to pack as little as possible. In addition to saving you time and frustration, packing light can help you avoid paying extra for additional luggage and have more flexibility when on vacation.

5. Purchase Travel Insurance

Remember to consider travel insurance as an important safety precaution when organising your Eid holidays. Travel insurance provides financial security and protection against unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage, medical problems and trip cancellation. Having travel insurance will give you added peace of mind and the assurance that you are prepared for any unforeseen events that may occur while travelling. When choosing a travel insurance policy, make sure it meets your needs and provides comprehensive coverage for your Eid holidays.

Join Hindustan Times

Create free account and unlock exciting features like.

• Terms of use
• Privacy policy
• Weather Today
• HT Newsletters
• Subscription
• Print Ad Rates
• Code of Ethics

• Elections 2024
• India vs England
• T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule
• IPL Live Score
• IPL 2024 Auctions
• T20 World Cup 2024
• Cricket Players
• ICC Rankings
• Cricket Schedule
• Other Cities
• Income Tax Calculator
• Budget 2024
• Petrol Prices
• Diesel Prices
• Silver Rate
• Relationships
• Art and Culture
• Telugu Cinema
• Tamil Cinema
• Exam Results
• Competitive Exams
• Board Exams
• BBA Colleges
• Engineering Colleges
• Medical Colleges
• BCA Colleges
• Medical Exams
• Engineering Exams
• Horoscope 2024
• Festive Calendar 2024
• Compatibility Calculator
• The Economist Articles
• Explainer Video
• On The Record
• Vikram Chandra Daily Wrap
• PBKS vs DC Live Score
• KKR vs SRH Live Score
• EPL 2023-24
• ISL 2023-24
• Asian Games 2023
• Public Health
• Economic Policy
• International Affairs
• Climate Change
• Gender Equality
• future tech
• Daily Sudoku
• Daily Crossword
• Daily Word Jumble
• HT Friday Finance
• Explore Hindustan Times
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Subscription - Terms of Use

Finland extends Russia border closure indefinitely

The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day. Sign up here.

Reporting by Essi Lehto in Helsinki, writing by Stine Jacobsen; editing by Terje Solsvik and Mark Heinrich

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. , opens new tab

Airline passengers in parts of the United Kingdom and Ireland faced travel disruption at airports on Saturday due to flight cancellations as a storm swept across both countries and left thousands of Irish homes with power outages.

Scientists fear that the season could be damaging given that Greece has just had its warmest winter on record, leaving much of the land warm and dry.

Israeli military says it reduces troops in south Gaza

The military did not immediately provide further details. It was unclear whether the withdrawal would delay a long-threatened incursion into Rafah, which Israeli leaders have said is needed to eliminate Hamas.

Islam Abu Isaeed stands in a ward in central Gaza's Al-Aqsa hospital, praying over the bodies of people killed in Israel's offensive.

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Northern Lights Tours in Finland

The northern lights are famous for their beauty and romance. If you're interested in seeing them and experiencing the excitement and winter activities of the northern regions of the world, then an organized tour is a great option. Many of the best tours allow you to experience not only the northern lights, but also the local culture, cuisine, and romantic destinations during the festive winter months. We have carefully analyzed all of the trip options to find the abolute best based on price, service, destinations, quality, and activities. So, here's our list of the best northern lights tours in Finland for your next trip.

• Magic Lapland Adventure 7 Days, $810.51
• Finnish Wilderness Week 8 Days, $3450.00
• Finnish Winter Adventure Family Holiday 8 Days, $3675.00

What are northern lights tours like in Finland?

Here are the important factors:

• 7 trip options analyzed
• $421 average price per day (USD)
• 7 to 10 days in length
• 4.69 of 5 average rating
• 24 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of northern lights tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 24 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 7 days, while the longest is 10 days. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 7 northern lights tours, you can rest assured that Finland has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 7 Best Northern Lights Tours in Finland

Magic lapland adventure.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for northern lights tours.

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 4.3 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Sweden, Norway, and Finland. With a duration of 7 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 45 people, and is good for travelers from 18 to 40 years old. Traverse through 7 enchanting destinations, with Abisko National Park, Björkliden, Tromso, and Skibotn among the must-see stops along the route. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Stockholm. This fantastic option, organized by Timetravels , presents an unbeatable value at just $116 per day.

• Coach / Bus
• Northern Lights

Finnish Wilderness Week

Spanning over 8 days, this trip has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming travelers from 16 and up, it is organized by Exodus Travels , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Kuusamo kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Available at an unbeatable price of only $431 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

• Ski, Snowboard & Snow

Finnish Winter Adventure Family Holiday

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip that has garnered a 4.6 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 9 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers from 9 and up. Expertly organized by Exodus Travels , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $459 per day.

• Polar Snow Shoeing

Midnight Sun – 7 Days in Lapland

This memorable trip is offered by Nordic Unique Travels which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $359 per day. Explore 5 incredible locations on this trip, including Rovaniemi, Sodankyla, and Saariselka. Helsinki will be both the start and end of your journey. The maximum group size is 20 people, welcoming travelers from 14 to 80 years old.

Northern Lights of Scandinavia (Classic, 10 Days)

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Finland and Norway, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 10 days, this trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 40 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 5 and up. Discover a journey that spans 6 destinations, with notable stops in Honningsvag, Alta, Tromso, and Ivalo. Beginning in beautiful Helsinki, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Oslo. Brought to you by Insight Vacations , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $495 per day.

• In-depth Cultural

Finnish Lapland in Winter

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 8 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 12 participants at most. Helsinki will mark the start of your journey, while Rovaniemi will serve as its final destination. Intrepid Travel , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 15 and up. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $514 per day.

Northern Lights of Scandinavia (Small Groups, 10 Days)

This fantastic voyage has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars, visiting Finland and Norway. With 6 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Tromso, Ivalo, Honningsvag, and Alta, and more. Helsinki marks the starting point, while Oslo stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Lasting 10 days, the maximum group size is 24 people, and it's good for travelers from 5 and up. Organized by Insight Vacations , this is a great deal because it's only $573 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Finland , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Finland , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Finland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Finland , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Finland , The Best Adventure Tours to Finland , The Best Eco Tours in Finland , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Finland , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Finland , The Best Cultural Tours in Finland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Finland , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Finland , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Finland , The Best Luxury Tours to Finland , The Best Budget Tours to Finland , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Helsinki , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rovaniemi , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Kuusamo , or The Best 10-Day Tours from Helsinki for more package tour options.

How much do northern lights tours in Finland cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for northern lights tours when planning a visit to Finland. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of northern lights tours in Finland based on data from 7 options is an affordable $421 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Finland .

And for more information on Finland, see Finland Travel Costs and Finland Hotel Costs .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions