stockholm to helsinki ferry travel time

• Ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

Tickets, Prices & Schedules

• Ferry Tickets
• Ferry routes

Ferry schedules

Is there a ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki?

The Stockholm - Helsinki ferry route is available with up to 2 daily crossings all year round and increased ferry frequency in the summer (from July to early August). The route is operated by 2 companies: Viking Line and Tallink.

Tip : please note that the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry timetable is subject to change . You can check real-time schedules and ferry ticket prices for the crossing on Ferryhopper.

Am I allowed to travel from Stockholm to Helsinki?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Stockholm to Helsinki. Before planning your trip, take a look at the latest updates on Covid-19 and ferry travel in Finland , including all the documents required for your journey.

What’s the ferry schedule from Stockholm to Helsinki?

As of now, the earliest ferry from Stockholm departs at 16:30 and arrives at 10:10 the next day in Helsinki. The latest ferry usually departs at 16:45 , arriving in Helsinki at 10:30.

Ferry Tickets, Offers & Discounts

How much is the ferry from stockholm to helsinki.

The Stockholm to Helsinki ferry tickets start at €96 and can go up to €114 . The final ticket price depends on vehicle selection, discounts, offers, and seat type.

On Ferryhopper, you can find all available offers for the Stockholm - Helsinki ferry route. Find the lowest prices and best offers, and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper at no extra cost .

Take advantage of the available discounts and travel by ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki with lower-cost ferry tickets . Ferry companies offer special discounts for specific passenger categories , including:

• Large groups of travelers
• Eurail and Interrail Pass holders

Note : children up to 5 years travel for free .

Ferry Route Info

How long is the ferry ride from stockholm to helsinki.

The ferry trip from Stockholm to Helsinki lasts about 17 h 45 min , depending on the company and the type of vessel you’re traveling with.

Is there a high-speed ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki?

No, the connections from Stockholm to Helsinki are only operated by conventional ferries. The fastest ferry to Helsinki reaches the port in 17 hr 40 min . 

What’s the distance between Stockholm and Helsinki?

The distance between Stockholm and Helsinki is approximately 214 nautical miles (396 km).

Ferry Trip Tips

Useful tips for your ferry trip to helsinki from stockholm.

Have a look at some important tips for your ferry ride to Helsinki:

• In the busy months between May and September, we suggest you arrive at the port of Stockholm in advance to avoid delays . The same applies to ferry trips on weekends.
• Due to unforeseen circumstances, the ferry schedules from Stockholm to Helsinki may change. Make sure to confirm your ferry’s departure time . You can also track your ferry in real-time on the Ferryhopper app !
• There are 4 main terminals in Helsinki: Katajanokka, Olympia, West Terminal 2, and Hansa terminal. Ferries from Stockholm usually travel to Katajanokka, Olympia and West Terminal 2. Make sure to check the port of arrival when booking your ferry tickets.
• After your holidays in Helsinki , you can catch a ferry to Tallinn in Estonia or Mariehamn in the Åland Islands. Take a look at the Helsinki to Tallinn ferry crossing on Ferryhopper and explore nearby destinations.

Where to take the ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

Ferries to Helsinki depart from the port of Stockholm , which is about 3 km from the city center. The port of Stockholm comprises a number of port areas : Värtahamnen, Frihamnen, Stadsgården, and Skeppsbron.

The ferry company Viking Line usually departs from the ferry terminal Stadsgården , while Tallink from Värtahamnen . Stadsgårdskajen is located a short walk from the Old Town, while Värtahamnen can be reached from the city center by bus 76 in about 15-20 minutes .

Can I travel on the ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki with a car?

Yes, on the ferries operating the Stockholm - Helsinki connection, it is possible to embark your vehicle . 

Ferry luggage

During your ferry trip from Stockholm to Helsinki with the companies Tallink or  Viking Line  you can keep your luggage next to you or store your bags and suitcases in the designated luggage area .

Good to know : bear in mind that there is no check-in procedure for luggage items.

Tip : we recommend that you don’t carry many things with you in order to avoid delays when boarding the ferry.

The ferries traveling from Stockholm to Helsinki have cabins , as well as numbered seats .

Pet travel 

You can travel with your pet on the boat from Stockholm to Helsinki. In order to be allowed on-board, all pets should hold a ticket . Smaller animals must be kept in special carriers, while large-sized animals must be equipped with a muzzle  or a leash.

Where can I book cheap ferry tickets from Stockholm to Helsinki?

You can easily book ferry tickets to Helsinki on Ferryhopper. Find more information about the ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki on our Map of ferries , compare companies, prices and schedules, and plan the trip of your dreams!

How to Travel from Stockholm to Helsinki by Plane, Ferry, and Car

Of the Nordic countries, Finland is more isolated than it's neighbors to the west. It doesn't share the same Scandinavian cultural and linguistic connection as Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, and it's also physically separated by the Baltic Sea. Visitors often pass over the Finnish capital because it seems too far or they don't know much about it, but Helsinki has much to offer for those who make the trek.

It's easy to get from Stockholm , Sweden, to Helsinki , Finland, although travelers have limited transportation options due to the geography of the area. Flying is the most feasible option, and tickets are usually inexpensive for this one-hour flight. The ferry, however, is a more exciting way to travel between the countries, and the price includes transportation, accommodations, and a nautical tour of the Baltic Sea.

Once you cross the border from Sweden to Finland, don't forget to set your watch forward by one hour.

How to Get from Stockholm to Helsinki

• Flight: 55 minutes, from $45
• Ferry: 16 hours, 40 minutes, from $88 (for four-person cabin)
• Car & Ferry: 11 hours, 300 miles (482 kilometers)

The easiest way to travel between Stockholm and Helsinki is, without a doubt, by plane. Nonstop flights between Stockholm and Helsinki are operated by Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian Air, and Finnair. The flights depart several times a day and only take an hour. Most flights depart from Stockholm's major international airport, Arlanda (ARN), but some flights also leave from the nearby regional airport, Bromma (BMA). Double-check your ticket to avoid showing up at the wrong place and missing your flight.

One-way tickets are as low as $45, so it's one of the most affordable ways to travel between the two cities. Because multiple airlines offer direct flights, even last-minute bookings shouldn't be much more expensive, with tickets rarely costing more than $100.

Pay close attention to the fine print of your flight details before booking, as the cheapest tickets usually come from low-cost airlines with strict rules and few amenities. Airlines like Norwegian Air charge extra even for flying with a carry-on bag, so add up all of your costs and fees before making your purchase.

If you have some time to spare while traveling, there's a 17-hour ferry connection between Stockholm and Helsinki leaving in the afternoon and arriving the following morning. The Viking Line and the Tallink Silja Line ferries both cover the Stockholm to Helsinki route and the Helsinki to Stockholm route, as does the once-a-week St. Peter Line . The ferries include onboard services such as bars, restaurants, different types of cabins, and duty-free shopping . You can travel as a foot passenger, but you can also bring cars, motorbikes, and bicycles on the ferries.

The Viking Line offers cheaper cruise prices but uses older ships; Tallink Silja Line cruises are more expensive but also offer more elegance. Booking a weeknight cruise from Stockholm to Helsinki is cheapest, and there's another discount if you buy a round-trip ticket. One-way weeknight tickets for cabins start at around $88 on Viking and $120 on Tallink Silja Line, but prices vary depending on the season and which cabin category you choose.

While taking the ferry is a leisurely and fun way to travel between Stockholm and Helsinki, it's not necessarily cheaper than flying—and it's certainly a lot slower. Many travelers who choose the ferry opt to do so for the experience. However, if you're sharing a cabin and you consider that the price covers your transportation as well as a night of accommodation, the ferry may actually be the most budget-friendly option.

Though Helsinki and Stockholm are only about 250 miles apart as the crow flies, they're separated by the Baltic Sea. That means your options are to drive all around the Gulf of Bothnia—a 1,000-mile journey that takes over 20 hours of driving—or to have your vehicle ferried across the sea to Finland. The latter option takes half the amount of time, and for much of the trip, you can just relax on board the ship.

After leaving Stockholm, you'll head northeast toward the coastal town of Kapellskär and board your first ferry to the Finnish Äland Islands, a two-hour boat ride with prices starting at $16 to board with a vehicle. From there, take a scenic drive through the islands—a great place to break up your trip and spend the night—before arriving at Långnäs, where you'll board the second and final ferry to Turku, Finland. The second maritime leg takes about four and a half hours, and tickets start at $50 to board with a vehicle. Get back behind the wheel in the Turku, and drive the final two hours until you reach Helsinki.

Driving a car is for the adventurous who are looking to create an experience from the road trip. Assuming you break the trip up into two days, it's the most time-consuming and also the most expensive way to travel from Stockholm to Helsinki. However, few tourists make such an arduous trek, so you'll get to experience parts of both Sweden and Finland that few foreigners get to see.

What to See in Helsinki

Compared to it's more popular Nordic neighbors in Denmark and Sweden, Helsinki is one of Northern Europe's most underrated cities. The city itself is small enough to explore on foot, and the colorful tents of Market Square are full of vendors selling baked goods, produce, drinks, and local handicrafts. After traversing the city and visiting its myriad of churches, museums, and parks, take a day trip to the islands around Helsinki to experience Finland's natural beauty. The island of Seurasaari is especially popular, especially during the summer months with its open-air museum of a recreated rural Finnish town. Of course, no visit to Finland is complete without a visit to a sauna, and thankfully Helsinki has plenty to choose from. Try the historic  Arlan Sauna or the modern Kulttuurisauna , both excellent options for tourists interested in trying out this cultural practice.

The ferry takes about 17 hours, leaving in the afternoons and arriving the following morning.

The flight time from Stockholm to Helsinki is only 55 minutes, making it the quickest way to travel between the two cities.

You can drive around the Gulf of Bothnia, a 1,000-mile journey that takes over 20 hours of driving. Or you can combo ferry and car travel for a total travel time of about 11 hours.

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Ferries from Stockholm to Helsinki

Navigation Route

Passengers selection, vehicle selection, navigation route inbound, book your ferry from stockholm to helsinki with netferry.

Find all the information for your ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki through our online booking platform. Our pages give you all of the information for your trip to Helsinki from Stockholm including crossing prices , schedules and duration .

The sea crossing between Stockholm and Helsinki is operated by well known ferry operators such as TALLINK SILJA LINE">Tallink Silja Line and VIKING LINE">Viking Line which together provide 14 weekly sailings with travel times ranging between 16 h 15 min and 16 h 45 min. mainly afternoon and evening departure times for these crossings. Ships that operate this crossing allow both vehicles and foot passengers. In order to provide optimum passenger comfort, each ship is equipped with food shops, an information centre and accommodation suitable for all needs (according to availability).

Don't wait around, book your ferry now with our online booking service!

Ferry Operators

Tallink silja line.

7 weekly sailings

Duration: 16 hours 45 minutes

Silja Serenade , Silja Symphony

VIKING LINE

Duration: 16 hours 15 minutes

Cinderella , Gabriella

Alternative routes

Alternative routes to helsinki.

There aren't alternative routes to Helsinki

Alternative routes to Finland

• Ferries from Stockholm to Langnäs
• Ferries from Stockholm to Mariehamn
• Ferries from Stockholm to Turku

STOCKHOLM HELSINKI offers

Accordion#toggleaccordion" data-index="tlnk0"> discounts for passengers under 17 years old.

Tallink Silja Lines has special discounts for infants (0-5) children (6-11) and teenagers (12-17). The discount is applied automatically on our online booking system.

Port of Stockholm

Stockholm has several ports but Baltic Sea passenger ferries use two terminals: Värtahamnen and Stadsgården. The Tallink Silja Line ferries depart from Värtahamnen terminal to the northeast of the centre and Viking Line ferries sail from Stadsgården, located on Södermalm island near Slussen. Both terminals have refreshments, toilets, baby change, luggage lockers, ATMs and parking available.  Getting to and from the ferry terminal Stockholm ferry terminals are easily reached on public transport: buses and the metro are the cheapest while the boat bus and hop-on-h... [ More information ]

Address: Värtahamnen: Hamnpirsvägen 10, 11574 Stockholm Stadsgården: Tegelvikshamn, SE-11630 Stockholm

Directions: Google Map @ Stockholm, port

Guide of Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and has a population of over 1.2 million people; it is by far the most populous area of the country, as well as the hub for politics, education, research, finance, and culture. The city can proudly boast having one of the highest urban standards of living in the world and is also the northernmost capital of all of the EU member states. A brief history of Helsinki The Tavastians inhabited the present day area of Helsinki as early as the Iron Age. They used the area for fishing and hunting, but due to a lack of archaeological evidence, it is difficult to know h... [ More information ]

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Want to learn more about your trip from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI?

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="1"> How long is the crossing from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI?

The duration of the crossing from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI is usually 16 hours 45 minutes with TALLINK SILJA LINE and 16 hours 40 minutes with VIKING LINE. Travel times may vary depending on the date and time of departure.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="2"> How many crossings are there per week from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI?

The ferry operator TALLINK SILJA LINE carries out 7 weekly itineraries and VIKING LINE carries out 7 weekly itineraries. The number of crossings may vary depending on the time of year.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="4"> How much is a ferry ticket from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI?

The price of the ticket from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI varies according to the date and time of departure and the offers available at the time of booking. Our website always gives you the best available price. Book now and save .

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="5"> Can I take my car on the line from STOCKHOLM to HELSINKI?

The companies on this route have ships that can accommodate cars, motorcycles, campers and trucks.

accordion#toggleAccordion" data-index="6"> Looking for information on the return journey?

If you are looking for information on your return journey, click this link Ferries from HELSINKI to STOCKHOLM .

Do you need help? Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions or need clarification.

• Port locator

Stockholm to Helsinki

Table of contents, popular departures between stockholm and helsinki, traveling by ferry from stockholm to helsinki, overnight ferry, departure and arrival ports.

  Stockholm

You can see information about the arrival station and stops Helsinki here

Cheapest ticket prices

Other popular destinations from stockholm.

Ferry Stockholm - Eckero

Ferry Stockholm - Mariehamn

Ferry Stockholm - Tallinn

Ferry Stockholm - Turku

Ferry Companies from Stockholm to Helsinki

Trip reviews from stockholm to helsinki, frequently asked questions.

To have all the information in the palm of your hand download our mobile app for free!

Latest blog posts

You can pay for your tickets using credit cards.

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Stockholm-Helsinki

From: € 89,00

Let's Go!

The ferry from Helsinki to Stockholm sails up to 10 times per week, most of the time with Tallink Silja but Viking Line and St Peter line also sail on the crossing between the capitals of Sweden and Finland. The crossing between Helsinki is a particular popular during peak season.

• Description
• Route Map Helsinki - Stockholm
• Tickets and Booking

Ferry to Stockholm and Helsinki

You can travel directly by ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki. Tallink Silja has the most frequent crossings on this route, but you can also sail with St Peter Line or Viking Line from Sweden to Finland or vice versa.

On board the ferries between the 2 Nordic capitals, there is plenty to do, which comes in handy on this 17-hour crossing over the Baltic Sea. On this ferry, a cabin is included. Which type of cabin you choose and if you bring a car can influence the price of your tickets.

This is an ideal crossing to move quickly and comfortably from Sweden to Finland and start the rest of your trip well-rested.

Wondering where this crossing is? Check it out on our handy ferry map.

You can easily find out availability and ticket prices by filling in the input fields below.

Which ferry companies sail on this crossing?

How long does the stockholm to helsinki crossing take, how often does the stockholm-helsinki ferry sail, what is the distance between stockholm and helsinki.

Alternative crossings

Sassnitz-Ystad

Helsingor-Helsingborg

Frederikshavn-Göteborg

Alternative routes.

Stockholm-Turku

Mariehamn – stockholm.

Travemunde-Helsinki

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Stockholm - Helsinki

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Ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki Trip Information

Ferries regularly connect the two Scandinavian capitals of Helsinki and Stockholm. There are two daily ferries from Stockholm to Helsinki operated by Tallink-Silja and Viking Line. Both ferries make a brief stop in Åland before continuing on to Stockholm.

Upcoming Departures:

• April 26, 2024
• April 27, 2024
• April 28, 2024
• April 29, 2024
• April 30, 2024
• May 01, 2024

Ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki Trip Statistics

Alternate ferry route: stockholm → turku.

From Stockholm to Helsinki, consider the alternate ferry route Stockholm to Turku instead. Helsinki is a mere two hours from Turku by train and there are more daily ferry departures between Stockholm and Turku than Stockholm and Helsinki. There are even trains that depart directly from the Port of Turku.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my vehicle, does ferryscan charge extra, can i bring my pet, are there cabins onboard, what is there to do onboard, ferry ports in stockholm.

Ferry ports in Stockholm that have regular passenger and vehicle ferry traffic.

• Stockholm (Värtahamnen) Port
• Stockholm (Stadsgården) Port

Ferry Ports in Helsinki

Ferry ports in Helsinki that have regular passenger and vehicle ferry traffic.

• Helsinki (South Harbor Olympia Terminal) Port
• Helsinki (Katajanokka) Port

Other Ferries Between Sweden and Finland

The ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki

Although it’s a couple of hundred miles away, the Finnish capital Helsinki is surprisingly easy to reach from Stockholm and can make for a really nice weekend break.

The fastest option is to fly between the two cities – there are daily flights in both directions, taking around one hour.

If you have a little more time to spare, you could consider taking the ferry. It’s a much more enjoyable alternative to flying, with loads of on-board entertainment and some great scenery along the way.

It should be said that these journeys tend to be very boozy , especially on weekends – expect to see lots of heavily refreshed Swedes taking advantage of the tax-free prices and on-board bars.

Quick take: Stockholm to Helsinki by ferry

• Two companies run boats from Stockholm to Helsinki: Viking Line and Tallink Silja Line
• Ferries make stop at the Åland islands along the way
• Boats run all year long, but less frequently in winter
• You can buy single tickets or treat yourself to a 3-day cruise instead
• These ferry rides and cruises tend to be quite boozy

There are two big ferry companies running services on the Stockholm–Helsinki route: Viking Line and Tallink Silja Line . Both make a stop at Åland (a Swedish-speaking part of Finland) along the way.

It’s a nice enough place but the main reason for stopping there is that Åland – an autonomous region of Finland – is not subject to the same EU tax rules as Sweden and Finland.

This clever loophole means boats can sell tax-free goods (including booze) on both legs of the journey.

The St Peter Line which used to run ships from Stockholm to Helsinki and onto St Petersburg in Russia is not currently running, and unlikely to restart any time soon.

Is the journey different in summer or winter?

Of course, conditions are almost certainly going to be rougher in winter. And it’s worth bearing this in mind, especially if you’re a poor sailor.

The ferries runs less frequently in winter too. Viking Line for example, runs daily ferries from early March to September but only every other day from October to early March.

So, make sure you check the schedules if you’re travelling in winter.

Viking Line

Viking Line ferries run from Stockholm to Helsinki once a day in summer, and every other day in winter.

Boats depart Stockholm at 4.30pm in the summer (4pm in winter) and arrive in Helsinki at around 10am the next morning (9.15am in winter), following a late-night stop at Mariehamn on the Åland Islands.

How long is the journey?

Ferries take around 16 hours to get from Stadsgårdskajen in central Stockholm to Skatudden in Helsinki. Around six hours into the journey, boats makes a quick stop at Mariehamn (Åland).

What’s the onboard experience like?

There are plenty of facilities onboard to keep you busy, including tax-free shops, restaurants and a spa with its own sauna.

Catering to the party crowd, there are nightly live music performances and DJ sessions – take a boat early in the week (Sunday–Wednesday) if you’d rather have a quieter crossing.

Choosing a ticket

How much you pay depends on your choice of cabin and comfort, and whether you bring a car or not.

The cheapest standard passenger tickets include a basic bunk bed in a shared room.

These come with either three or four beds each and are similar to the kind of rooms you’ll find aboard sleeper trains. On some crossings, the cheapest rooms don’t have the en-suite facilities.

Is the Helsinki Card worth buying?

Read this guide to see how much you could save during your trip!

Stepping up a level, comfort-wise, it’s possible to reserve your own private en-suite room.

These come in around a dozen different formats and comfort levels, from small-ish rooms that are suitable for wheelchair users and allergy sufferers right up to spacious suites with big windows.

The smarter the cabin, the more you’ll pay, of course!

Cars, motorbikes and bicycles are permitted on both of the Viking Line ferries running between Stockholm and Helsinki. You’ll have to pay extra, though – prices are dependent on the size and type of vehicle.

Note that when you book online , you’ll have the choice between an organised ‘cruise’ and a regular ticket (either one-way or return). The cruises are usually good value but often only give you one day in Helsinki.

Buying a regular ticket gives you more flexibility, especially if you’re planning on visiting other parts of Finland and are not sure when (if ever) you’ll head back to Stockholm .

How much does a standard ticket cost?

Prices vary depending on availability and the time of year, and taking a car will add to the price significantly, as will choosing a private cabin. 

However, ticket prices start at around €75 (US$92) one-way which includes a bunk in a basic inside cabin, sharing with three others.

Getting to the ferry terminal

Viking Line’s terminal for ferries to Helsinki is at Stadsgårdskajen, just east of Fotografiska on  Södermalm .

Getting there from Stockholm’s main train station is easy – jump aboard a #53 bus bound for Finnberget/Henriksdalsberget and get off at Londonviadukten. From there it’s a couple of minutes’ walk down to the harbour.

Alternatively you can get the T-Bana to Slussen, then bus #471 to Londonviadukten.

Our guide to getting around Stockholm has more info on using the buses and T-Bana and paying for journeys.

Getting to and from the centre of Helsinki

In Helsinki, boats pull up at Skatudden, just east of the centre. Tram #4 runs from nearby Puolipäivänkatu, taking around 20 minutes to reach the middle of town.

Tallink Silja Line

Viking Line’s big rival on this route, Tallink Silja Line , also runs a daily service from Stockholm to Helsinki year-round.

Just like the Viking Line ferries, these boats usually depart from Stockholm at about 4.45pm, make a stop at Mariehamn (Åland), and then arrive in Helsinki around 10.30am the following morning.

The total journey time is around 18 hours.

What the onboard experience like?

Two boats runs this route, the Silja Symphony and the Silja Serenade. As well as the usual bars and restaurants, the two boats offer a spa, tax-free shops, a midnight dance show, a casino and a kids’ play area. 

They both have a seafood/sushi restaurants, designer shops, a sauna and cabins decorated with Moomin designs.

And, given the sheer number of options for eating and drinking, you can expect at least some of the passengers to get rather merry.

The cheapest Tallink Silja Line tickets include a basic bunk bed in a shared inside cabin. 

Alternatively, you can pay extra and choose a private luxury en-suite cabin with its own balcony – or, of course, something in between!

Cars and other vehicles can be transported aboard the Tallink Silja Line ferries on this route, but there’s an extra charge depending on the size of the vehicle.

If want to spend longer than one day in Helsinki, you can buy a standard ticket from the  Tallink Silja Line website . 

A one-way ticket with a bunk-bed in a shared, inside C-class cabin (the cheapest available) starts at €78 (US$85). 

Like on the Viking Line, however, prices vary enormously depending on the time of year, whether you have a car or not and what level of cabin you choose.

Taking an organised cruise

You can also book good-value organised cruises from Stockholm to Helsinki which give you two nights on-board the ship and one day to sight-see in Helsinki.

This three-day cruise includes a return trip with two nights in a private sea-view cabin with breakfast included for a bargain €130 (US$140) per person. 

And if you are just travelling one way, you can book this one-way trip in a sea-view cabin with breakfast included for just €94 (US$100) per person.

For both options, you can add on a buffet dinner on-board or spend the evening in the sauna or at the karaoke bar!

Tallink Silja Line Ferries bound for Helsinki depart from Stockholm Värtahamnen, around 4km northeast of the city centre.

Getting there with public transport is fairly easy: take the T-bana to Gärdet and walk northeast for 15 minutes, or take a #76 bus from Slussen or Nybroplan to Värtahamnens Färjeterminal – the stop is right near the harbour.

See our guide to getting around Stockholm for tips on how to use the public transport network.

These ferries stop at Helsinki’s South Harbour (also known as Olympia terminal).

It’s close enough to the city centre that you can walk there in around 15 minutes, but if you’ve got a lot of luggage you might want to take public transport – tram #2 will take you up towards the central station.

Which ferry is best?

Pricewise, there’s little to choose between the two companies operating ferries on this route, so our advice is to check both of their websites first and go with the cheapest option that suits your schedule.

It’s worth noting that if you’re travelling around northern Europe with a Eurail or Interrail pass, you can get between 20 and 50% off the cost of a standard ticket on both Tallink Silja and Viking Line ferries.

Both companies offer a limited number of discounted tickets, so check the websites to see if you can get a discount.

In terms of facilities, we like the spa and sauna on the Viking Line ships. For a real relaxing trip, you can book in for a massage or treatment and get free access to the sauna, steam baths and hot tubs.

Viking Line also has good entertainment with live music from a variety of singers and bands and tribute acts plus DJs, magic shows and dance classes.

In terms of decor, we prefer the cabins on Tallink Silja ships, which come with cute Moomin designs (which are great for kids) and we really like the Marimekko design cabins too.

We also like the spa on Tallink Silja ships, which is reasonably priced and can be booked without a treatment. Ninety minutes use of the sauna, jacuzzi and sun deck costs just €14 per person, and can be accessed if you choose to book the 3 day cruise .

If shopping is your thing, we recommend the mall on the Tallink Silja ships, which has designer outlets including Marimekko and Tommy Hilfiger.

In terms of restaurants, there’s little to choose between the two companies – both have a good range of places to eat including good value buffet tables. 

Though, personally, we really like the Happy Lobster on the Silja Serenade which serves up fresh seafood at reasonable prices and the Sushi bar on Silja Symphony.

Our top tips for ferry travel

• Travel off-peak. Both companies run special offers at quieter times of the year.
• Book in advance. Both companies use dynamic pricing so the fuller the ship, the more the tickets cost.
• Travel mid-week if you want a quieter trip. Weekends can be busy and noisy!
• Get a discount with Interrail and Eurail. Check the websites for disounts off up to 50% with an Interrail card.
• Have a sauna. If it’s cold outside, book the sauna and jacuzzi on the Tallink Silja for just €14 a session. 
• Book meals in advance. If you fancy dinner in the buffet restaurant on-board, it’s 10% cheaper if you book it in advance. Just add it to your reservation.
• Book a three-day cruise. If you just want to spend the day if Helsinki, you’ll save money by booking a cruise ticket that includes a sea-view cabin and two buffet breakfasts.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Stockholm? Check out our detailed city guide .

See also : Taking the ferry from Stockholm to Tallinn The ultimate guide to Scandinavian ferry routes Taking the ferry from the UK to Norway

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we are 2, 79 years of age. we aill arrive from Faro, Portugal in he afternoon of May 25, 2017 and wish to take the ferry from Stockholm to Helsinki the same day.

Times, costs?

Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry: Essential Things to Know

What are the essential things to know about the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry for a more convenient travel experience? Find out more in this article and learn why the Stockholm to Helsinki cruise is a can’t-miss part of your adventure to Finland and the Nordics.

Traveling to Finland from one of the Nordic countries is relatively easy and fast via an airplane. But that’s a typical practice of most tourists, right? So, if you want to add an extra dose of adventure and thrill to your journey, you might as well do so via a Helsinki ferry or cruise.

If you’re planning to visit Helsinki, find amazing hotel deals and a nice place to stay in Helsinki city center or hotels near Helsinki airport .

Follow me on Instagram , where you’ll see more personal tips about living in Finland from a local resident chef and content creator 🍃🍃🍃

📚 Do you want to learn the Finnish language for FREE ? Check out Spark Your Finnish course! 🇫🇮 How about diving into Finland’s culture? Here’s another FREE culture class to learn how to connect with Finns ❗️ Be insured before your trip to Finland and  get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about  why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to  find cheap flights to Finland using Skyscanner  or  find deals now

Table of Contents

Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry Trip: Step-by-step guide

Step 1: Choose which cruise line to take

There are several cruise lines that travel between Stockholm and Helsinki and you can choose between Tallink or Viking Line. In my honest opinion, Viking Line is the more popular cruise line that most Finns take when heading to Stockholm but otherwise, either one will take you to Helsinki and back.

Step 2: Book your tickets, choose which class, day of departure, and any other additional extras

You can book your tickets directly from the cruise line website: Tallink and Viking Line . You can compare the prices and choose which one fits your schedule!

Here is where you can have fun and choose which cabin class you’d like to stay in to maximize your overnight experience on board. Most people would take the standard cabin that fits 4 people with an en suite toilet and shower combo as it is often the cheapest option and most people rarely stay in their cabins besides sleeping. However, they do have more luxurious options from premium (basic hotel looking rooms) to suites that have a large window and sometimes, even a balcony.

I personally am fine with a standard cabin as you often spend most of your evening onboard exploring the cruise ship while the next day is spent exploring Helsinki (if you chose to do the overnight cruise).

While booking, you can also choose to add extra amenities during your stays such as a massage, a spa, or even a table reservation at one of the restaurants . I highly suggest trying out their evening buffet, it is always quite good filled with tons of Finnish and Swedish delicacies to your liking.

Step 3: Board and enjoy your cruise between Stockholm and Helsinki

When you’re boarding, expect to show your passport with a valid visa (if you need one) and your ticket either printed or your phone (they need the QR code).

Finland is a Schengen country just like Sweden so as long as you have the visa for Sweden, it should be enough. If you’re from the EU, you don’t need a visa to enter Finland.

What to do once you’re on board?

There is a lot of entertainment on board so you won’t have any lack of things to do. There are live bands to watch, bars to hang out, restaurants to eat at, shops to shop at, sauna and spa amenities, and so on. Just walk around, enjoy, and relax.

Alternatively, you can hang out in your cabin and just chill until you’re in Helsinki the next morning. The number of activities will all depend on you.

What to bring with you inside the cruise ship?

You can bring your change of comfy clothes for sleeping, formal/party clothes if you want to check out the bars and fancy restaurants, and weather-appropriate clothing for when you’re in Helsinki. Bring your own toiletries, as well, and anything that you think you may need while on the cruise ship!

I personally bring my Nintendo for personal entertainment and kindle for reading along with my toiletries and change of clothes.

Some people bring some snacks with them from Stockholm to save on the ridiculous ferry grocery prices but buy alcohol on board as they are tax-free and cheaper. My sister and I also once brought our own meals on board so we don’t have to eat at any restaurants so we can splurge a bit more when we got to Stockholm (we were boarding from Turku). So, up to you! You do you.

Why take the Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry?

One of the most popular routes between Sweden and Finland is the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry route. This route links the capital city of Stockholm in Sweden with the capital city of Finland namely, the iconic Helsinki .

Stockholm , known for its breathtaking natural wonders, bizarre UNESCO heritage sites , well-preserved culture, and rich history, is spread across several islands off the coast of Sweden.

From here, the ferry will take tourists to Helsinki which albeit small, thrives with various architectural wonders including museums. It also hosts different natural sceneries including jaw-dropping lakes and lush forests.

Many tour organizers also provide day trips to countless destinations from Helsinki, adding to the variety of experiences you’ll enjoy there.

The three operators host up to 15 ferries running per week via the said route. That’s a lot considering the population so there is no shortage of ferries to choose from. Note that the companies operating from Stockholm to Helsinki also offer a car ferry .

Note, however, that there are variations on the sailing durations and frequency of the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry and that depends on the season and month.

What are the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry time schedules?

What is the Stockholm to Helsinki ferry time schedules? There are various factors that affect the ferry schedule for this route including ferry operators, changes to the ferry route, seasonal changes, and other similar issues.

Note that there are up to 15 ferries operating every day and these are managed by three ferry companies. So, just check Tallink and Viking Line ‘s web pages and check which dates suit you best!

How long does the Ferry to Helsinki from Stockholm take?

Due to a variety of reasons, ferry sail durations on this route can range from 16 hours to 17 hours. These time differences are due to various factors such as weather conditions at the time of the departure, ferry operators, ferry route, and other external factors.

Note that the ferry from Sweden to Finland can sometimes take 18 hours if there are other environmental factors involved.

Overall, it is an overnight cruise so expect to leave from Sweden in the afternoon and be in Finland by morning and vice versa.

Also, Viking Line stops in Åland Island or Ahvenanmaa for a brief period between the Stockholm-Helsinki-Stockholm route for fuel or to drop off passengers.

Otherwise, expect to be onboard between 16-18 hours.

Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry Prices

Upon a quick research, the prices for a standard cabin that fits 4 people costs between €70 to €120 one-way (€160 to €240 return).

If you’re traveling with a partner or a group of friends, it is a lot cheaper! You can divide the cabin price between two, three, or four! If you travel with three of your friends, you’ll end up paying €40 to €60 for return tickets each!

That said, Viking Line and Tallink do have seasonal discounts throughout the year so you can keep an eye on that. A friend of mine actually scored an €8 standard cabin once!

So in a nutshell, it can be quite pricey for one but cruises are fun with friends so make sure to tag them along.

🇫🇮 Planning your trip to Finland 🇫🇮

I’ve written hundreds of posts about traveling in Finland and I’m here to help you out! Here’s my complete Finland travel planning guide to help you get started – Finland travel guide . But here are some overviews to get you started.

Where to go in Finland?

• Places to Visit in Finland
• Cities in Finland that are Worth a Visit
• Finland Holidays You Should Experience!
• MUST-VISIT Tourist Attractions in Finland
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Finland
• Beaches in Finland
• Lakes in Finland
• Hikes in Finland
• National Parks in Finland
• Gorgeous Castles in Finland

Visiting Helsinki? Here are some of my tips!

• Restaurants in Helsinki
• Cafes in Helsinki
• Hotels in Helsinki
• Bars in Helsinki
• Tours in Helsinki
• Hotels Near Helsinki Airport
• A Neighborhood Guide to Helsinki
• How to Get from Helsinki Airport to City Center?
• Art Museums in Helsinki
• Helsinki Budget: Is Finland Expensive?
• Things to do in Helsinki
• Day Trips from Helsinki
• Public Sauna in Helsinki to Relax

Take a Finland cultural dive

• What is Finland Famous For? 30 things Finland is known for!
• Finnish Kaamos: 10 Tips on How to Survive Darkness During Winter in Finland
• 21 Finnish Food and Dishes You Should Try
• Hello in Finnish: 10 Different Greetings Finns Use!
• Sauna Etiquette 101: Top Tips For Foreigners in Finland
• What to Wear in a Sauna in Finland
• Finnish Breakfast: What do Finns Eat and Where You Can Get It!

Top cities to visit in Finland

• Things to do in Tampere
• Things to do in Vaasa
• Things to do in Porvoo
• Things to do in Pori
• Things to do in Salla
• Things to do in Rovaniemi
• Things to do in Oulu
• Things to do in Turku
• Things to do in Espoo
• Things to do in Jyväskylä

When to visit Finland?

• Summer in Finland: 10 Awesome Ways to Experience Finnish Summer!
• Autumn in Finland: Top 10 Things to do, Expect, and Visit!
• Winter in Finland: 10 Things to do, Activities, and Experiences
• Spring in Finland: 10 Things to Do, Activities, and Experiences
• Best Time to Visit Finland for Northern Lights
• Pinterest 21

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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