Finland Transportation Guide: How to Get Around in Finland as a Tourist

Finland offers a seamless and eco-friendly transportation network that makes it easy to explore its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming towns. Whether you’re visiting Helsinki, exploring Lapland, or cruising through the beautiful archipelago, getting around is both convenient and efficient. The country’s train, bus, ferry, and taxi services provide a variety of options to suit any traveler’s needs. In this guide, we’ll explore each of these transportation methods to help you make the most of your Finnish adventure.

Last updated: 15.09.2025

Train Travel: The Best Way to Experience Finland

Train travel in Finland is the most efficient and scenic way to explore the country. The national railway company, operates an extensive network that connects major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Rovaniemi, as well as remote destinations such as Lapland. Finnish trains are modern, equipped with amenities like spacious seats, Wi-Fi, and dining options, ensuring a pleasant journey. The train system is known for its punctuality, making it a reliable mode of transport. Trains are also environmentally friendly, offering a more sustainable travel option than other methods, such as cars and flights.

The comfort of the seats, combined with the onboard amenities like power outlets and Wi-Fi, makes long train journeys a pleasure. The Finnish train network also provides services for those with reduced mobility, ensuring that all travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey. Compared to other forms of transport, trains provide plenty of space for luggage, so you don’t need to worry about packing light. Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or exploring Finland’s winter wonderland, using Finland trains offer the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and efficiency.

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Tip for Train Travelling:
Book your train tickets in advance to secure the best prices and enjoy panoramic views of Finland’s stunning landscapes, especially on scenic routes to Lapland.

Bus Services: Affordable and Accessible

Buses are a widely available and affordable form of transportation in Finland. With services covering all major cities and rural areas, buses provide extensive coverage throughout the country. Operators like Matkahuolto and OnniBus run regular routes connecting urban centers and smaller towns, making it an easy way to travel across Finland. While buses are often slower than trains due to traffic and the larger distances between stops, they are an excellent option for travelers on a budget.

Bus stations are typically located outside city centers, so additional time may be required to reach popular attractions. However, buses are a cost-effective way to travel, and in some cases, you can enjoy scenic routes, especially when traveling through Finland's forests or coastal areas. Finland’s bus services are reliable and frequent, making them a great alternative for those who prefer not to rent a car. The prices for bus tickets are generally lower than train fares, which makes buses a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Finland’s bus services cover over 80% of the country, providing affordable access to both major cities and remote towns, making it one of the most accessible transport options.

Ferries: Exploring Finland's Archipelago

Taxis: Convenient for Short Journeys

Finland is home to one of the largest archipelagos in the world, with over 20,000 islands. Ferries are the best way to explore this unique coastal region. Whether you’re traveling from Helsinki to the Åland Islands or hopping between the islands in the Turku Archipelago, ferries offer an unforgettable experience. The Finnish ferry network is well-connected, providing easy access to remote islands, and many ferries offer onboard amenities. The scenic views of the coastline and islands make the ferry ride itself a part of the adventure. Ferries are a slower mode of transport compared to trains or buses, but they offer a relaxing and picturesque journey. For those interested in leisurely cruises, services like Silja Line also offer longer journeys between Finland and Sweden, with luxury onboard amenities.

Taxis in Finland are convenient for short-distance travel within cities and for getting to remote areas that may not be easily accessible by public transport. Taxi services are available in all major cities, with options for both regular and eco-friendly vehicles. You can hail a taxi on the street, book one via a mobile app, or find one at designated taxi stands. While taxis are not the most economical choice for long distances, they are perfect for short trips or when you need to get to a specific destination quickly. Taxis in Finland are reliable and safe, with drivers who are familiar with the local area. However, the fare can add up quickly, especially for longer journeys. To save money, it’s best to use taxis for shorter trips or in situations where convenience is more important than cost.

Domestic Flights in Finland: Fast and Efficient Travel

Domestic flights in Finland offer the quickest way to reach remote regions, especially during the winter months when destinations like Lapland become prime spots for Northern Lights viewing. Finland’s national carrier, Finnair, operates flights between major cities such as Helsinki, Rovaniemi, and Ivalo, as well as smaller regional airports. For travelers eager to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, flying into Lapland is often the most time-efficient choice. For instance, the Lapland Northern Lights guide provides insights into the best times and locations to view the Northern Lights, along with tips on guided tours and self-guided adventures. These tours often include activities like husky sledding, snowmobiling, and visits to glass igloos, all set against the backdrop of the Arctic wilderness.

Comparative Table of Finland’s Transport Options

Getting around in Finland is straightforward, but the best way to explore this stunning country is by train. Trains offer the perfect combination of speed, comfort, and scenic views, making them ideal for both short trips and long journeys. With an efficient bus network, convenient ferries for exploring the archipelago, and reliable taxis for short distances, you have all the options you need to make the most of your time in Finland. Choose the best mode of transport for your journey and enjoy Finland tours in comfort and style!