Highlights

The capital Helsinki is both dynamic and stylish, flanked by fabulous art galleries and cafes. Its central shopping boulevard and vibrant harbour showcase the best Nordic design, food and fashion.

Finland is commonly known for its sauna scene. In particular, bathing in the hot air then dashing outside for an icy dip in a hole in the ice - something every visitor needs to experience.

Discover Santa's hidden hideaway in Rovaniemi. A must do for families and Christmas lovers, join the elves and help to feed the forest birds and decorate Christmas trees, cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy a reindeer sleigh ride.

Discover the Midnight Sun that burns brightly throughout the height of summer in Northern Finland.

Experience the culture of the Sámi people (also Saami) are an indigenous people of northern Europe inhabiting Sápmi, which today encompasses parts of northern Sweden, Norway, and Finland.

Extending over the remote reaches of the country’s north, the Finnish Lapland offers adventure and excitement throughout the year. You can glide through ancient forests on traditional reindeer and dogsleds, stay in one of many Ice, Snow and Glass Igloos on offer and admire the Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights) as it lights up the dark winter sky with curtains of green, and if you’re lucky, pinks and reds.

Useful information

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Communications

Finland: +358

Emergency Services: 112. The emergency services may not always have English speaking staff. 

Customs

Midsummer celebrations are popular across Scandinavia, when people gather to celebrate the longest day of the year, either with a bonfire or a maypole decorated with flowers.

Electricity

Electrical Plug type: European
Voltage: 220-240 volts

Getting around

Getting around Scandinavia and the Baltic States are easy, with car travel the most common mode of transport for visitors. The road systems are extensive and easy to navigate with most major highways paved. Several airlines provide domestic and international flights to neighbouring countries. Scandinavia has an extensive railway network, and ferries connect the islands, fjords and archipelagos. Travellers should always be sure to drive carefully and monitor weather forecasts, particularly in winter. 

Language

Local languages include Finnish and Swedish. Most people also speak English.

Health

Please consult a medical practitioner or contact The Travel Doctor for your specific risk and requirements when travelling to this country. 

Tipping

Tips are not expected across Scandinavia and the Baltics since service charges are included in the bill. However, locals generally leave around 5-10% of the bill if they were satisfied with the service quality.

Shopping

Shops generally open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with reduced hours on Saturdays and Sundays in major shopping centres. Some supermarkets may open seven days a week until 11pm. Local specialities include woollen knitwear, handmade ceramics, glassware and silver jewellery. 

Visas

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool.

FIND OUT WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR YOUR TRIP


Official travel advice is available by visiting the SmartTraveller Website

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