Finland is an amazing country to explore. Whether you’re visiting vibrant cities like Helsinki or heading to the serene wilderness of Lapland, getting around is straightforward. Let’s break down how to navigate Finland using public transportation, taxis, rideshare services, and rental cars.
Public Transportation in Finland
Finland’s public transportation system is efficient and affordable. The primary forms of transport are buses, trains, trams, and ferries.
Trains
Trains in Finland are run by VR, the national railway company. They are comfortable, reliable, and eco-friendly. You can travel between major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Oulu. The trains are also a great option for long-distance travel, even up to Lapland.
Most trains have free Wi-Fi and spacious seating. For an upgraded experience, you can book first class, called “Ekstra Class”. If you’re traveling overnight, sleeper cabins are available for long distances. Booking in advance will usually get you cheaper tickets.
Buses
Buses are extensive and will get you to nearly any part of Finland. Matkahuolto and Onnibus are the largest bus companies. Onnibus offers cheaper fares and services between major cities.
For rural areas, buses are often the only option. They connect to small towns and national parks. Just remember: schedules in rural areas can be limited, especially on weekends.
Trams
Helsinki has an excellent tram system. It’s the easiest and most scenic way to move around the city. If you’re sightseeing, this is a fun way to travel.
Trams run regularly and tickets are cheap. Helsinki’s public transport tickets cover trams, metro, and buses, making it super easy to switch between modes of transport.
Ferries
If you’re headed to the islands around Helsinki or taking a short trip to Estonia, ferries are the way to go. They offer both transport and stunning views of the coastline. Most ferries run year-round, but services may be more limited in winter.
Just check the timetable and book tickets either online or at the ferry terminal. For short rides within Helsinki, you can use your regular public transit ticket.
Costs
Public transport fares are affordable. A single ticket in Helsinki costs around 3 euros. If you’re staying a few days, a daily or weekly pass could save you money.
Kids under 7 usually ride for free, and there are discounts for students, seniors, and groups.
Reliability
Public transportation in Finland is incredibly reliable and punctual. Delays are rare, and trains in particular run like clockwork. Winter snow doesn’t slow things down much either—Finland knows how to handle it.
Safety
Public transportation in Finland is safe. You won’t need to worry about pickpockets or crime. Even late at night, the trams and trains remain safe to use.
Taxis in Finland
Taxis are widely available but can be expensive. All taxis are metered, and prices are regulated. It’s convenient, especially for short rides within cities, but if you’re traveling longer distances, public transport might be a cheaper choice.
How to Find Taxis
In larger cities like Helsinki, you can find taxis at dedicated taxi stands, near major attractions, or by calling a taxi company. A few apps like “02 Taksi” are also available, making booking a ride easy if you prefer to use your phone.
Taxi availability outside urban areas can be sparse, so it might not always be the best choice for getting around rural Finland.
Costs
Taxis start at around 6 euros, with an additional charge per kilometer. Hot tip: avoid using taxis for long distances as the fares can add up quickly.
Safety
It’s safe to take a taxi in Finland. Drivers are generally honest and friendly. All licensed taxis must display their pricing clearly and use a meter, so you won’t worry about being overcharged.
Rideshare Services
Uber is not as common in Finland as it is in other countries. Though it’s available in Helsinki, the number of drivers can be low during off-peak hours. You might wait longer for an Uber compared to bigger cities around Europe.
Another option is “Yango,” a ridesharing app that operates in bigger cities. It’s growing, but just like Uber, its availability is not as consistent as in places where ridesharing is already common.
Costs
Prices for Uber and Yango are generally cheaper than taxis but fluctuate with demand. You may run into surge pricing, especially late at night or during rush hours.
Safety
Rideshare services in Finland are safe, but always make sure to check the car and driver’s info before getting in. Both Uber and Yango apps allow real-time GPS tracking, so you can always monitor your route.
Renting a Car in Finland
If you’re planning an extended trip or want to venture into Finland’s more remote areas, renting a car might be a good idea. Rental cars give you flexibility to plan your own route and explore areas that public transport can’t reach.
Car Rental Companies
Major international rental companies operate in Finland, including Hertz, Budget, and Europcar. You can also find local companies that may offer more competitive pricing. It’s always best to compare rates online before you arrive.
Renting from Helsinki Airport (HEL) or other major airports is simple, but it can be more expensive. You can save money if you rent from city locations instead of the airport.
Costs
A basic rental car costs around 50 euros per day. However, prices depend on the type of car, insurance options, and the rental duration. If possible, book in advance for a better price.
Driving Conditions
Driving in Finland is mostly straightforward. Roads are in excellent condition, and traffic is generally light. Speed limits are well-marked: typically 50 km/h in city areas and up to 80-120 km/h on highways.
Winter driving can be tricky though. Snow and ice are common from November to March, but rental cars are always equipped with snow tires during this time. If you’re not used to driving in the snow, just be cautious and take your time. Local drivers are usually very patient.
Parking
Paid parking areas are common in big cities like Helsinki. On residential streets, you can sometimes find free parking, but there might be time limits. Signs in Finnish will indicate parking rules, so it’s a good idea to confirm if you’re unsure.
If you’re traveling in rural areas, parking is often free and easy to find.
Fuel Costs
Gasoline in Finland is pricey, with an average cost of around 1.80 euros per liter. Make sure to account for fuel costs when planning your trips with a rental car.
Required Documents
You need a valid driver’s license to rent a car in Finland. If your license isn’t in English or Finnish, it’s a good idea to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Drivers from EU countries can use their EU license without any issues.
Speed Cameras
Finland has speed cameras on highways as well as in built-up areas. Fines for speeding can be quite hefty since they’re based on your income. So, it’s best to stick to the speed limits!
Final Tips
In the cities, you’ll mostly want to stick to public transportation. It’s reliable and much cheaper than taxis or rideshare services. For exploring Finland’s rural areas, renting a car is a great option that gives you total freedom to organize your own adventure.
Whether you’re hopping on a tram in Helsinki or driving through the snow-covered forests of Lapland, getting around Finland is easy and enjoyable. Plan smart, pack warm, and you’ll have a trouble-free journey!
Leave a reply