12 Essential Finland Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Finland is a country of tranquil forests, shimmering lakes, stylish cities, and Arctic adventures. From chasing the northern lights to relaxing in saunas or partying in the midsummer sun, Finland is a destination like no other. But for first-time visitors, understanding local customs and practical details can make all the difference.

Based on our visit to ‘the world’s happiest country’ these are our tried and tested 12 essential Finland travel tips we wish we had known before our visit to help you enjoy your first trip with confidence.

12 Essential Finland Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

1. Finland Is Exceptionally Safe and Quiet 🧘‍♀️🔒

As well as being crowned the world’s happiest country, Finland also consistently ranks among the world’s safest countries. Crime is low, and locals are respectful and honest.

Public transport is considered safe even at night and solo travellers, including women, will feel secure across the country.

However, we still recommend travellers follow the usual safety precautions as you would at home.

2. English Is Widely Spoken But Don’t Expect Small Talk 🗣️🤫

Most Finns speak excellent English, especially in cities but Finnish culture is more reserved than some visitors might expect. However, don’t confuse quietness for rudeness, it’s just that Finns value personal space and peaceful environments.

Tips:

• Don’t expect chit-chat with strangers. Silence is perfectly normal so embrace it!
• Be polite and direct when talking, and avoid interrupting others.
• Learn a few words in Finnish or Swedish. Even though Finns of all ages speak excellent English, we found using a few Finnish words helped to break the ice.

Try:

• Hei – Hello
• Kiitos – Thank you
• Anteeksi – Excuse me / Sorry

💡 Tip: Finland has multiple official languages so you may hear other languages spoken. For example, in Lapland, you may also hear Sámi.

3. Tap Water Is Among the Cleanest in the World 💧

There’s no need to buy bottled water as Finland’s tap water is exceptionally pure. Save on plastic and drink local! 

Tips:

• Bring a reusable bottle to fill at taps and restaurants. It will save you money and help to save the environment.
• Ice in drinks is safe to consume.

💡 Tip: Many Finns carry a bottle for environmental reasons. Drinking tap water is a source of pride.

4. Getting Around Is Easy and Efficient 🚉🚇

We found public transport in Finland to be clean, reliable, and easy to navigate.

Tips:

• In Helsinki, use the HSL app to buy metro, tram, bus, or ferry tickets. You can also use the app to plan journeys and to track transport disruptions.
• Trains connect major cities and run on time. VR is the largest rail company and you can buy tickets online in advance.
• Domestic flights are available, but we recommend taking the train if time allows. Finland has spectacular scenery so travel through it, not over it!

💡 Tip: Validate your ticket before boarding or risk a fine, even if it’s a mobile ticket.

5. Embrace the Sauna🔥🧖‍♂️

Sauna is a way of life in Finland and a core part of its culture. In fact, there are over 3 million saunas in the country which is roughly one sauna for every two people!

Tips:

• Always shower before entering a sauna.
• Most saunas are nude, single-gender, or private. It’s essential to check the etiquette before entering!
• Saunas are a place to relax, not socialise so keep talking low and to a minimum.
• Some people like to jump in a lake or roll in the snow after a sauna.

💡 Tip: Say yes if you’re invited to a Finnish home sauna as it’s considered an honour.

6. Dress Appropriately For The Weather ❄️🌦️

Finland experiences dramatic seasonal changes, from snowy Arctic winters to sun-filled summers. It goes without saying that it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather, especially if you’re visiting in winter. 

Tips:

• For a winter (Nov–Mar) visit, think layers. Pack thermals, thin but warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves and a woolly hat, and a quality down coat.
• In summer (June–Aug) bring layers as it can still be cool, especially in Lapland. Bring lighter jumpers and coats and layer up or down according to the variable temperature. We also recommend bringing sunscreen and a sunhat.
• In autumn and spring expect unpredictable weather. Dress in layers and be prepared for snow and rain.

💡 Tip: Mosquito repellent is essential in summer, especially in forested areas.

7. Finland Is Card-Friendly (and Mostly Cashless) 💳

Like other Nordic countries, Finland is a mostly cashless economy. Card or mobile payment is accepted almost everywhere.

Tips:

• Carry a debit or credit card with contactless capability. We always recommend bringing at least two types of card.
• Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are widely supported.
• Currency is the euro (€) but cash/coins are rarely needed.

💡 Tip: Most toilets, public transport, and even small cafés accept card only.

9. Nature Is Open to All🌲🏕️

Like Sweden, Finland follows the “Everyman’s Right” (jokamiehenoikeudet), meaning you can hike, camp, and forage almost anywhere. Nature is considered sacred in Finland so first time visitors must treat it with respect. 

Tips:

• You can wild camp, kayak, and explore freely but follow the leave no trace ethos.
• You can pick berries and mushrooms for personal use though we would not advise this unless you are 100% sure what you are picking!
• Be respectful of private property. Don’t pitch your tent too close to homes, keep the noise down and always take away all your litter.

💡 Tip: Finland’s national parks are free to enter and beautifully maintained. We recommend visiting at least one if possible.

10. Don’t Underestimate the North 🌌🐾

Lapland is the largest and most northerly region of Finland. It is best known as the home of  Santa Claus but it offers so much more than festive adventures. It’s a magical region of wilderness, reindeer, and the aurora borealis.

Tips:

• Visit between December and March for snow, dog sledding, and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
• Come in summer for the midnight sun and endless hiking trails but bring plenty of repellent as the mosquitos are fierce!

💡 Tip: Train or fly from Helsinki to Rovaniemi or Ivalo for easy access to the Arctic.

11. Shop Sustainably and Don’t Expect Cheap Prices 🛍️

Finland is not a budget destination, but quality is high and ethics matter.

Tips:

• Look for Finnish brands like Marimekko, Iittala, and Fazer.
• Second-hand and vintage shops are popular, especially in Helsinki.
• Chain stores aren’t always cheaper. Try local markets or design shops to pick up a bargain.

💡 Tip: Bring your own reusable bag when shopping as Finland charges customers for plastic bags. 

12. Take It Slow and Respect the Silence 🧘‍♂️🌤️

The Finnish lifestyle prizes calm, quiet, and time in nature. You’ll get the most from your trip by slowing down and by getting out of the cities and spending time in nature. 

Tips:

• Don’t rush your itinerary. Linger in cafés, contemplate by a lake, go for a walk in a forest.
• Join locals in silence. Switch off and disconnect from the outside world on hikes, in saunas, or even in restaurants.
• Travel by train or ferry to appreciate the scenery and slow pace.

💡 Tip: What do we think is the best way to experience Finland? Listen, observe, and breathe it in.

Final Thoughts

Finland is a country that values calm over chaos, depth over flash, and connection over chatter.

Whether you’re chasing the aurora, dipping into a lakeside sauna, or simply enjoying a cinnamon bun under the pines, Finland has a quiet magic that stays with you. We guarantee you’ll want to hang onto this feeling long after leaving the country. 

By following these tips, you’ll not only fit in as a first time visitor but you’ll also travel like a true Finn.

Read next – Tips for first-time visitors to Sweden | Tips for first-time visitors to Poland | Tips for first-time visitors to Hungary