Helsinki Finland Travel Tips

Helsinki Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Key Travel Tips:

• Getting Around:

  • Helsinki is very walkable and bike-friendly, with excellent public transportation (buses, trams, metro). Purchase a Helsinki Card for unlimited travel and access to museums.
  • Taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Consider ride-sharing services like Bolt or Uber.

• Language:

  • Finnish is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning basic Finnish phrases (like “kiitos” for thank you and “moi” for hello) will be appreciated.

• Weather:

  • Be prepared for all types of weather, even in summer! Layers are essential as temperatures can fluctuate. Pack rain gear and sturdy shoes.

• Currency:

  • The Euro (€) is the currency used in Finland. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

Cultural Etiquette Tips:

• Greetings:

  • Finns tend to be reserved. A simple handshake is sufficient when meeting someone for the first time. Avoid overly enthusiastic greetings or physical contact.

• Personal Space:

  • Finns value personal space. Stand a comfortable distance away during conversations and avoid interrupting others.

• Silence:

  • Don’t be surprised by periods of silence in conversation. It’s considered polite and thoughtful to pause and reflect before speaking.

• Punctuality:

  • Finns are punctual. Arrive on time for appointments and meetings. Being late is seen as disrespectful.

• Sauna Culture:

  • Sauna is an integral part of Finnish culture. Be respectful of sauna etiquette:
    • Remove clothing (swimsuits optional) before entering the sauna.
    • Use a towel to sit on.
    • Take a shower before and after using the sauna.
    • Avoid talking loudly or making excessive noise.

• Tipping:

  • Tipping is not mandatory in Finland, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Enjoy your trip to Helsinki!