How to get to Helsinki from Helsinki Airport
Helsinki Airport, also known as Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), is Finland’s main international airport and is located only 20 kilometres north of the city centre. Whether you’re planning to stay for a short time or a long time, there are a number of modes of transport that will get you to the city and I’ve outlined them below. Read this guide so you know how to get to Helsinki from Helsinki Airport.
Flying into any international airport for the first time can feel daunting. It may be the first part of a big trip to Europe, or perhaps you’ve flown into another European city already. Either way, navigating your way through an airport to a city shouldn’t be harder than it needs to be!
Of course, there are multiple ways to travel, but the two most popular options are by taxi or by train.
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Getting to Helsinki by train
The first time we came to Finland, we got into a taxi, which cost us approximately $120 AUD. In the future, I’d like to say we’ll definitely be utilising the train to save some money, but as you know, there are often factors that despite the budget friendly mode of transport, the need for convenience in that moment wins out!
The train not only the fastest option but it is actually the most popular way to travel to central Helsinki from the airport. The I and P trains run every 10 minutes during peak hours. The trip takes about 30 minutes and the train station is literally within the airport terminals!
How to actually buy your ticket
Don’t board without one – ticket inspections happen regularly and the on-the-spot fines are steep, so it’s not worth the risk.
- Buy a paper ticket from the machine on the platform at Helsinki Airport station before you board.
- Running late? You can tap your card directly onboard the train instead.
- Also available at? There’s an R-Kioski at Helsinki Central Station where you can grab a paper ticket.
Watch here for what the tapping system and R-Kisoski look like!
If confidence is getting in the way of finding your way by train, watch this “no frills” video to help you on your way!
Tip: If you’re planning on staying a few days, consider getting an HSL day ticket for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and trams. Or, you can download the app and buy all of your tickets that way which we found super convenient when we were in Helsinki in 2022.
Getting to Helsinki by taxi
If you prefer a more private and direct ride (or it is simply more convenient), taxis are available 24/7 right outside the terminal buildings. It’s a hassle-free option, especially if you have heavy luggage, travelling with kids…or perhaps you’re just too tired and “just want to get there”! The taxi ride takes about 30 minutes depending on where you’re going exactly. The cost can depend on the length of the trip, the time of day and the size of your vehicle.
Tip: Pre-book your taxi through the Lähitaksi app to ensure a fixed rate.
Rideshare from Helsinki Airport to Helsinki
Both Uber and Bolt (we used Bolt in Tallinn) are available in Helsinki. Download the app if you don’t have it already. I believe the cost is not dissimilar to the cost in a taxi but if you’re like us and like collecting Qantas Frequent Flyer points, you might prefer to take an Uber!
Check out some of the great activities and tours available in Helsinki here!
Car rental
Finally, hire a car! The car rental desks are conveniently located just nearby to the arrivals terminal. There are a number of options and as always, I would recommend you do your research and compare prices to get the best deal!
Public bus to Helsinki from Helsinki Airport
Another budget friendly option is taking the Finnair City Bus or HSL bus #615, which run regularly between the airport and the city centre. The buses can be an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a cheaper option or if your destination is not directly accessible by train. The trip will take around 40 minutes depending on traffic.
Tip: You can use the same ticket for both bus and train if you haven’t exceeded the 90-minute validity window.
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
