travel zones in helsinki

Public Transport in Helsinki 2024: Public Transit Made Easy!

This guide will help you navigate Helsinki’s public transportation. From navigating buses, trams, and the metro to understanding fares, ticketing, and insider tips, we’ve got you covered.

The tram is the most popular means of transport in Helsinki. So, how do you get a tram ticket, and how do they operate? And what other means of transportation are there?

• Tickets can be purchased via the HSL app, ticket machines, or sales points.
• You can’t buy a ticket from the driver on any of the buses or trams in Helsinki.

Holders of the Helsinki Card City or Helsinki Card Region can travel free within specified zones AB or ABC, depending on their card (the basic Helsinki Card, which is digital, does not include public transportation).

Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) is responsible for operating public transportation.

Read more about ticket types, zones, airport lines, tram use, the Suomenlinna ferry, and everything else.

Overview of Helsinki Public Transport System

The beauty of Helsinki is that you can get around without needing a car.

The metro system offers a quick underground option for commuters, and commuter trains efficiently link Helsinki with its suburban regions.

Buses travel the city’s diverse neighborhoods, while the iconic trams navigate the streets with charm.

Suomenlinna Island is easily accessible through ferry services. Commuter trains take you to neighboring cities.

The Helsinki region has four travel zones (A, B, C, and D). But since there is no ticket for just one zone, you need an AB ticket in the Helsinki area .

Check which zones you will travel to when going further (for example, for the airport, you need an ABC ticket).

Always carry a valid ticket, as frequent checks are conducted. The penalty for traveling without a valid ticket is 80 euros.

Fares and Ticketing

How to buy a ticket.

Tickets cannot be purchased from the driver on trams.

1. Ticket machine

You can buy a ticket from a blue ticket machine. You can find them on metro and train stations and on some tram stops.

A ticket purchased from the machine is valid immediately, and the expiration time is printed on the ticket. It is valid 10 minutes longer than tickets purchased elsewhere.

2. Sales Point

Another option is to buy a ticket from the sales points (for example, R-Kioski shops with multiple locations).

You can buy single tickets in advance from the sales points. Validate the ticket by showing it to the card reader on your first trip. Show the ticket to the reader; no buttons need to be pressed.

Validate the ticket purchased from the sales point by showing it to the card reader on your first trip. Show the ticket to the reader; no buttons need to be pressed.

The third option is to install HSL app. The app also helps you find the best route to your destination and get up-to-date information about service changes.

You can buy single, one-day, multi-journey, or season tickets. You can pay with your debit or credit card.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to making the most of the HSL app:

1. Download and Install

Begin by downloading the HSL app from your device’s app store.

You can download the HSL app from the App Store , Google Play , or Huawei App Gallery .

You can download the HSL app and register your information already at home. This way, you’ll see if it works or not.

When you fill in your contact details in the HSL app, you can leave the password field empty, thus skipping the HSL account registration part. You can then use the HSL app for single and 1–13-day tourist tickets without HSL account registration.

An HSL account is necessary for permanent residents purchasing season tickets.

2. Planning a Route

Plan your route by entering your starting point and desired destination into the route planner. 

The app provides route options, complete with details on transfers, estimated travel times, modes of transportation, and the zones for which you need a ticket.

3. Ticket Purchases

Select your preferred ticket type based on your travel needs and purchase it directly through the app.

The digital ticket is stored on your app for easy access during your journey. 

For tourists traveling in multiple zones, the HSL app allows you to effortlessly select the appropriate zones for your ticket, ensuring the right coverage for your entire journey.

You don’t need an internet connection when boarding the bus – a purchased and valid ticket can be shown from the app offline, too.

There are frequent ticket inspections by HSL patrols, so ensure you have enough battery power on your device.

4. Real-Time Schedules, Notifications and Alerts

The app updates regularly to provide accurate information on arrivals, departures, and potential disruptions to your chosen route.

You can enable notifications to receive updates on your chosen routes, ensuring you know of any changes or disruptions that may affect your travel plans.

5. Language Options

The HSL app supports multiple languages, making it accessible and user-friendly for international visitors. Set your preferred language in the app’s settings for a personalized experience.

Helsinki’s public transport operates on a zonal system, dividing the city and its surrounding areas into different zones. When purchasing tickets, check the zones you plan to visit, ensuring your ticket covers your entire journey.

• For trips in Helsinki, you need an AB-zone ticket (single-zone tickets are unavailable).
• You need an ABC-zone ticket for a journey between Helsinki Airport and the city center.

The AB-zone ticket also covers parts of Espoo and Vantaa. For example, you can travel to Tapiola, Espoo with an AB ticket.

The HSL app and ticket machines provide information on zones and ticket validity.

You can also check the zones via a map in the online journey planner .

Ticket Types

Single tickets.

Single tickets are ideal for occasional journeys.

The ticket must be in the app before boarding a tram, bus, or train. On the metro, the ticket must be on your phone before you enter the payment area after passing the card readers. 

• AB-zone single ticket: 2,95 euros
• ABC-zone single ticket: 4,10 euros

AB-zone ticket is valid for 80 minutes, and ABC-zone for 90 minutes.

Tickets allow transfers between modes of transport within that time. You can board a vehicle and complete your trip even if the ticket expires during the journey.

Day tickets

A day ticket allows unlimited travel within a specific zone. They are cost-effective and flexible. You can hop on and off public transport at your leisure, making them an ideal choice for sightseeing.

• 1-day: 9 euros
• 2-days: 13,50 euros
• 3-days: 18 euros
• 1-day: 11 euros
• 2-days: 16,50 euros
• 3-days: 22 euros

You can use the HSL app to buy day tickets for 1 to 13 days. The tickets are valid from the moment of purchase.

Alternatively, you can set the validity start time of the ticket within 24 hours of the purchase. A one-day ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first use, a two-day ticket for 48 hours, a three-day ticket for 72 hours, etc.

You can buy day tickets from service points also (R-Kioski shops).

Public Transportation from Helsinki Airport to city center

You can go to the train station from inside the terminal at the airport.

Please note that you can’t buy a ticket on the train.

You need an ABC-zone ticket for a trip between Helsinki Airport and the city center (the airport is located in zone C).

• You can buy a ticket (a single or day ticket) at the ticket machines at the train station.
• Other places to buy a ticket are Alepa Grocery Store, WH Smith, R-kioski, and tourist information.
• If you have installed the HSL app, you can use it to buy any ticket you need.
• ABC single ticket costs 4,10 euros
• ABC day ticket costs 11 euros

The airport train takes you to Helsinki city center in about 30 minutes.

There are two services: train I and train P, and you can use whichever comes first. Trains operate daily every 10 minutes or so.

The exact travel times are as follows:

• I-train 27 min
• P-train 32 min

ABC ticket is valid for 90 minutes, so you have plenty of time to change to another transport mode when the ticket is valid.

Trains don’t operate all night, but there is a night bus, 415N, to and from Helsinki Airport. Travel time is around 50 minutes with the night bus, but it only has a few departures a night.

Helsinki Card With Public Transportation

The Helsinki Card is a tourist card that includes admission to most museums and sights and some sightseeing tours. The basic digital card does not have public transportation; physical cards do.

• Helsinki Card (digital): does not include public transport
• Helsinki Card City (physical card): includes public transport in zone AB.
• Helsinki Card Region (physical card): includes public transport in zone ABC.

For airport travel, the Helsinki Card Region is required (one day is 58 euros, two days are 72 euros, and three days are 86 euros).

The basic Helsinki Card (digital, 48/58/68 euros), or Helsinki Card City (54/66/78 euros), does not cover travel to or from Helsinki Airport.

You can buy a physical Helsinki Card at the airport (Excess Baggage Company at the arrivals hall).

Suomenlinna Ferry

HSL ferries from Market Square (Kauppatori) to Suomenlinna are part of the public transport system. So the same ticket you use for trams and buses is also valid for the sea trip to Suomenlinna.

• Tickets are not sold on the ferry . The ticket must be purchased before boarding the ferry.
• You can buy the ticket from the ticket machine on the harbor or the HSL app (AB-zone ticket 2,95 euros).
• If you have a valid ticket, you can use the ticket on the ferry (remember that the AB ticket is valid for 80 minutes).

Depending on the season and the time of day, ferries run 1 to 4 times per hour from the morning until the night throughout the year. The journey takes about 15 minutes.

Note that the ferries can be pretty crowded during the summer if the weather is good.

The island has no entrance fee, and you can walk around freely. You only have to pay for the crossing to Suomenlinna and back.

Ferry tickets do not include any extras, like entrance fees to separate museums on the island.

You can view the HSL ferry schedules here .

Water bus services are not part of the HSL public transportation system.

• HSL tickets are not valid on the waterbus.
• You can buy the ticket to the water bus when boarding (the price range is 5 to 10 euros for a one-way ticket).

The water bus service to the fortress runs from May until September. A trip to the fortress with a water bus takes about 20 minutes.

The water bus departs from a different location than the HSL ferry. You can easily spot them on the Market Square (the pier is called Keisariluodon laituri).

In Suomenlinna, the water bus also departs from a different location than the HSL ferry (Artillery Bay pier, but it also stops at the King’s Gate). Some waterbus departures stop at Lonna Island on the way to Suomenlinna.

Using the water bus has its ADVANTAGES because it is not so crowded, and you can get closer to the fortress area on the island.

From Suomenlinna main pier, where the HSL ferry goes, it’s about a 600-meter walk to the water bus pier (where the fortress area begins).

Locals use the HSL ferry, of course, because it can be accessed with the same ticket as other means of transport.

Public Transport Etiquette in Helsinki

The tickets cannot be purchased on board. Please ensure that you have a valid ticket before boarding the vehicle.

Getting In:

• If someone is waiting at the tram stop, the tram stops. No waving is required (this is something that even some locals don’t know).
• It doesn’t hurt to wave for your tram, especially if several lines pass through the stop.
• You can board through all doors (let departing passengers leave first).
• Press the green button next to the door to open the door.
• Remember to have a valid ticket before boarding, but you do not need to show the ticket to the driver.

Getting Out:

• You see the name of the next stop on display.
• Press the red stop button inside to request a tram to halt at the next station (if no passengers are waiting, the tram will pass by without stopping).
• Press the stop button in good time, but only after the tram has left the previous stop.
• On most trams, you can see if someone has pressed the stop button by the display saying Stop ( Pysähtyy in Finnish), usually next to the screen with the name of the next stop.
• When the tram has stopped, press the green button on the door to open it.
• By pressing the blue stroller button, the doors stay open longer.
• Light rail service stops at all stops.
• There is no need to wave your hand or search for the stop button.
• However, you can press the button to keep the doors open longer than usual.
• For a bus to stop, you need to wave.
• Use the front door for boarding, and show your ticket to the driver.
• Press the stop button inside the bus to stop at the next bus stop.
• On most buses, you can see if someone has pressed the stop button by the display saying Stop ( Pysähtyy in Finnish).
• The platform area starts at the ticket reader devices marked with yellow signs. From there on, you can only proceed with a valid ticket.
• The metro always stops at every station.
• The doors open automatically; you don’t need to press the open button.
• Leave room for passengers getting out.
• A small screen in the subway car shows the name of the upcoming stop.

The Helsinki subway system is simple. There are two lines, but you can get to most of the stations on both lines.

The difference is mostly at the ends of the lines, so if you’re traveling in the downtown area, just make sure you’re going in the right direction.

Line M1 runs between Vuosaari and Kivenlahti in Espoo. Line M2 between Mellunmäki and Tapiola in Espoo. But for most of the journey (between Itäkeskus and Tapiola), they follow exactly the same route.

• Allow passengers to exit before boarding.
• Priority seating is available for those with special needs.
• Maintain a considerate noise level and offer your seat to those in need.

Helsinki Public Transport FAQ

What modes of transport are available in the helsinki public transport system.

The Helsinki public transport system includes buses, trams, metros, commuter trains, and the Suomenlinna ferry.

How Much Does Helsinki Transit Cost?

Helsinki transit fares for adults:

• A single ticket is 2,95 euros.
• A 1-day ticket is 9 euros.

How Do You Buy a Ticket for Helsinki Transit?

The easiest way is to use the HSL app. You can also buy a ticket from a ticket machine or sales point (R-Kioski shops with multiple locations).

Tickets cannot be purchased on board in any way.

Can I Buy a Single Ticket for Multiple People on HSL app?

Yes, you can. After buying one ticket, go on buying more. You must buy them one at a time.

You can see the tickets in the Your Tickets section of the app. Please note that you must complete the journey together.

Do I Always Need to Show My Ticket?

There is no need to show a ticket when boarding trams, metro, Suomenlinna ferry, or commuter trains.

On regular buses, where you board from the front door, you must show your ticket to the driver.

Orange buses mean the so-called trunk lines. You can board these from the middle doors without showing the ticket to the driver.

Note that random ticket inspectors are used on all lines.

What Line Goes to Helsinki Airport From the City Center?

You can take the I or P trains to reach Helsinki Airport from the central station.

Trains depart every 10 minutes from Monday to Saturday and every 15 minutes on Sundays. During quieter periods, the trains may have intervals of up to 30 minutes.

Travel time with the I train is about 27 minutes (route: Helsinki–Tikkurila–Airport–Myyrmäki–Helsinki).

Travel time with the P train is about 32 minutes (route: Helsinki–Myyrmäki–Airport–Tikkurila–Helsinki).

When traveling from the city center to the airport, you must have an ABC zone ticket (a single ticket is 4,10 euros).

When Does the Metro Start Running, and When Does It Stop?

The metro runs from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm (Monday–Saturday).

On Sundays, it runs from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm.

There are some exceptions; for example, between November 17 and December 16, the metro will run two hours longer than usual on Friday and Saturday nights (pre-Christmas party season).

Read more about public holidays and other special days in Finland.

During rush hours, the metro runs approximately every 2.5 minutes; otherwise, it runs every 3-5 minutes.

Can You Use Metro Tickets on the Bus?

Yes. You can transfer across the bus, metro, trams, local trains, and Suomenlinna ferry on a single fare for up to 80 minutes (AB zone).

How Does Public Transportation in Helsinki Stay Reliable and Comfortable During Winter?

In Helsinki, public transportation operates well during winter despite cold and snowy conditions.

Buses, trams, and trains are well-heated, so don’t worry. Even if it is cold outside, they are relatively warm inside.

Regular snow clearance on roads and tracks helps minimize disruptions.

In any case, heavy snowfall causes delays, but it has not happened that traffic in Helsinki stops completely because of snow.

Any Other Questions About the Helsinki Public Transport System?

Still have questions about the Helsinki public transport system? If so, please be in touch in the comments below.

We’ll be back with an answer!

Happy travels!

Thanks for all the valuable information. I’ll be staying at 8 Unioninkatu 01300 June 6-June 10 and traveling to Helsinki Olympic Stadium. Which is the best public transportation to us leaving home at 2 and leaving stadium at 11:30 pm?

Thank you for reaching out!

Tram line number 2 is your best choice for traveling from Unioninkatu to Helsinki Olympic Stadium, with a journey time of about 30 minutes.

Trams run every 10 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes in the evening.

Remember, you can’t pay the driver directly; tickets must be purchased in advance.

For your return journey, there’s a ticket machine at the Olympiastadion stop at the corner of Helsinginkatu and Mannerheimintie, useful if you don’t have a day ticket or the HSL app.

For specific timings on your travel dates, please check the HSL route planner as summer schedules are not yet published.

Route map of line 2

HSL Route Planner

Safe travels and happy to help if you have more questions! – Maaret

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Getting around Helsinki

• Getting Around
• Getting around Helsinki

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Update 13.3.2020: Helsinki Regional Transport has advised that bus tickets will not be sold on board, effective today. Use of the HSL app and travel cards continues as usual.

Hsl advises that routes continue to be operated normally, but asks the public to avoid unnecessary use of public transport..

Getting around Helsinki is easy because of its efficient public transportation system. The entire Helsinki region is covered by an integrated network that is operated by HSL, the Helsinki Regional Transport Authority. HSL tickets are valid on the bus, metro, tram, commuter trains and the Suomenlinna ferry. There are also private transportation options available, such as inter-city buses and taxi services.

Getting To And From The Airport

Helsinki International Airport is located in Vantaa, thirty minutes from the city centre. Finnair buses leave every 25 – 30 minutes from Elielinaukio, which is in front of the central railway station in Helsinki, starting at 5 a.m. and ending at midnight. The last bus leaves from the airport at 00.45. One-way adult tickets cost EUR 6.80 and are valid for 90 minutes.

The local buses take slightly longer to get to the airport and single tickets cost EUR 4.60 (EUR 6.50 when bought from the bus). Bus nos. 615, 415, 617 and 561 take you to the airport from different points in the city. Conveniently, you can take bus no. 615 from the stop located across from the Central Railway Station.

The new Ring Rail Line provides a train connection between the airport and the city centre. From the Helsinki Central Railway Station, you can take either the I or P trains. The modern, low-floor trains run every 10 minutes in the daytime. The journey from the airport to the central railway station takes about 30 minutes. For more information about the bus and train schedules visit www.hsl.fi .

Tickets are not sold on board the trains, but can be bought on board buses, or through the HSL app, or from an HSL ticket machine. At the airport, ticket machines are located at the train station entrance between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, in the baggage claim hall in Terminal 2 and at bus stops. Additionally, tickets are available at the Tourist Info booth, R-Kiosks and from the Alepa grocery store. Journeys between the airport and the Helsinki city centre require an ABC ticket. 

Minibus services, including Airport Taxi (tel. 0100 4800) and Yellow Line Airport Taxi (tel.

0600 555 555), charge a lump sum for a whole group travelling from the airport to a single destination in the city. An ordinary taxi from the airport to the city centre will cost approximately 50 euros, depending on the exact destination.

City Transport System

Buses and Trams

Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) provides an integrated service throughout the city. Timetables and route maps are available from the HSL information offices free of charge. The main office, located at the central railway station, is open Monday to Friday from 7.30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased from the HSL ticket machines which are located at travel transit points. HSL also has a mobile ticket app for smartphones. The free app allows you to buy tickets directly from your phone. The mobile tickets are valid on all modes of transport.

Ticket prices are based on zones. Four new zones (A, B, C, D) were introduced in April 2019, replacing the previous system. An AB ticket will allow you to travel within Helsinki and Espoo; note however that an ABC ticket is required for travel from central Helsinki to Vantaa. A single AB ticket (adult) costs EUR 2.80 when purchased through the app or from a ticket machine, and EUR 4.00 when purchased from the bus driver.  A day ticket is useful if you plan to make several journeys during one day or more, as you can buy a ticket that is valid from 1 to 7 days.

AB tickets are valid for 80 minutes and ABC tickets for 90 minutes; however, tickets that are bought from ticket machines are valid for ten minutes longer.

If you travel by tram remember to obtain your ticket beforehand, either from a ticket machine or through the app, as tickets are no longer sold on board.

A modern, immaculately clean metro runs from Ruoholahti in the south-west to Mellunmäki and Vuosaari in the north-east of Helsinki. The last train leaves the centre approximately at 11.30 p.m. The network remains modest with a straight-line, east to west design, which makes it extremely easy to navigate. Uniquely, the metro will also drop you off at the gates of the Rastila camping site in Vuosaaari, which is maintained by the city of Helsinki. The new Western Metro Extension has added eight stops after Ruoholahti and currently ends at Matinkylä, Espoo.

The local trains all depart from the Helsinki Central Railway Station. There are three main lines: Riihimäki via Tikkurila (Tampere line), Kirkkonummi via Espoo (Turku line) and Vantaankoski via Myyrmäki. There are both fast trains and local trains that call at every station on the way. The Helsinki Card and tickets issued by HSL are valid within the greater Helsinki area. If you are travelling beyond the municipalities of Helsinki, you will require a commuter train ticket. Tickets are not sold on board the trains but can be bought from VR offices, ticket machines, the VR webshop or through the VR mobile app. ( www.vr.fi )

Taxi regulations were eased in 2018, removing previous controls on who could provide the service and for how much.  Taxi prices are typically not cheap, but since the deregulation of pricing, fares now depend on the company or individual providing the service.  The driver’s policy on fares should be stated before the start of the journey or should clearly visible otherwise within the vehicle. If you require a taxi, phone 0100 0700, it is a local taxi service. You can also call Kovanen, a private taxi and limousine company with 24/7 customer care (tel. +358 (0) 200 6060, www.kovanen.com ).

You can also call a taxi directly through the Discover Helsinki mobile app.

Renting a car is a good way to explore the area surrounding Helsinki. Several major international car rental companies operate at both the airport and in the centre of Helsinki. Traffic is right-handed and headlights are mandatory at all times while driving. If you are arriving with your own vehicle, remember that winter tires are required by law from December to February.

A relatively flat landscape and excellent bicycle routes makes Helsinki an ideal place for cycling, and tours to its outer suburbs are recommended.

Helsinki has shared-use bicycles that you can borrow for a small fee. You can use the City bike for 30 minutes, or up to 5 hours for an extra charge. After your ride, the bike must be returned to one of the 345 bike stations which are located throughout Helsinki and Espoo. For those who enjoy cycling, this is an excellent way to explore both cities.

Bicycles can also be rented from various locations in Helsinki, including Greenbike at Bulevardi 32 ( greenbike.fi ) and Ecobike at Savilankatu 1 B, next to the football stadium ( ecobike.fi ).

Boat and Ferry Services

Don’t overlook one of Helsinki’s main attractions: its extensive archipelago, which is perfect for summertime island-hopping. From May to September, several boat tours operate from the Market Square. For instance, JT-line (jt-line.fi) offers a tour that takes you to Vallisaari, Suomenlinna and Lonna islands, allowing you to explore each island at leisure.  Stromma Finland also offers a combo tour which includes a sightseeing cruise with the mainland hop-on hop-off bus tour. ( stromma.com ) 

A regular ferry service to the fortress island of Suomenlinna, run by HSL, departs from the Market Square approximately twice an hour. This service operates all the year round. HSL public transport tickets (AB, ABC and ABCD) are valid on the ferry, or you can purchase 12-hour ticket to Suomenlinna for EUR 5, which is only valid on the ferry.  Alternatively, the Helsinki Card includes travel on the ferry to Suomenlinna and holders of the card can also travel for free on the boat to Korkeasaari, a pretty island that is home to the Helsinki Zoo.

Updated: May 2019

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But it’s definitely worth taking the time to see.

Historic, small, brimming with green space, and set on the Baltic Sea, Helsinki is a picturesque city filled with friendly people and few tourists. It’s especially great if you love art and music as they have a ton of museums and a vibrant music scene.

If you ask me, Helsinki is one of the most underrated capitals in Europe . I always love my time here!

This travel guide to Helsinki can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Helsinki

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. Visit the National Museum of Finland

This museum has a large collection of Finnish artifacts from the Stone Age to the present, including jewelry, coins, tools, weapons, and more. Containing the most comprehensive collection of cultural history in Finland, the museum is ideal for learning about Finnish folk culture and the Finno-Ugric people. The collection didn’t actually have a building until an architectural contest was held to build the structure that houses the current museum (construction started in 1910). It was officially opened as the National Museum of Finland in 1916. Permanent collections can be viewed alongside a fascinating array of rotating pop-up exhibits. The museum also hosts workshops and tours. It’s a good place to get an overview of Finland’s history. Admission is 15 EUR and is free every Friday from 4pm–6pm.

2. Relax at Kaivopuisto Park

During the summer, residents and tourists alike flock to this park to hang out, play sports, picnic, and enjoy the view of the Baltic Sea Located on the southern point of the peninsula in a high-end neighborhood, it has well-maintained paths for walking, plenty of green space, and some old growth trees. It’s the oldest park in Helsinki and the Ursa Observatory sits atop the highest point of the park. Cafes and restaurants are scattered around the shoreline and islands. Concerts and other events are often held in the park during warmer months. During the winter, the largest hill in the park is a favorite spot for tobogganing. If the weather is nice, bring a book and lounge the day away!

3. See the Helsinki Cathedral

This cathedral was built in the 19th century as a tribute to Czar Nicholas I, the Grand Duke of Finland, and was known as St. Nicholas Church until Finland gained independence in 1917. Built in the Neoclassical style, it’s one of the most recognizable sights in the capital’s skyline and can be seen from almost every vantage point in Helsinki. If you’ve visited a lot of cathedrals, you likely won’t think this is one of the greatest in Europe but I think it’s one of the best in Scandinavia.

4. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art (Kiasma)

Opened in 1990, Kiasma is housed in a unique modern building not far from the Post Museum (see below). The collection consists of over 8,500 works and pays tribute to Finnish art from the 1960s to the present day. Part of the Finnish National Gallery, Kiasma is Finnish for “chiasma,” a term describing the crossing of nerves or tendons, and was named by the American architect, Steven Holl, who designed the unique building. Concerts and events are often held within Kiasma and the building contains a theater, a library, a café restaurant, and a bookstore. Tickets are 18 EUR for adults and free for anyone under 18. Admission is free on the first Friday of every month.

5. Tour Suomenlinna Fortress

This island fort was constructed by the Swedes in 1748 as a defense against the Russians. When Russia took over Helsinki in 1808, they used it as a garrison. The designers and architects of the fortress incorporated the unique geographical features of the area and constructed many of the buildings using stones from the islands. Since 1748, different groups added on to the sea fortress and it has served to defend 3 separate nations. It now covers six islands, all of which belong to the city of Helsinki. After World War II, the fort was converted for the people of Finland to use. Today, it’s a park and residential area. There are a lot of interesting buildings, secluded beaches, and parks here. Guided tours cost 11 EUR.

Other Things to See and Do in Helsinki

1. tour the post museum.

This museum is dedicated to the history of Finland’s postal service. It sounds absolutely boring but I found it surprisingly interesting and educational. It highlights the history of the mail service in Finland, from ships and sleds in the 1600s to their modern-day delivery service. There are all kinds of artifacts, photographs, and short films about how they made mail delivery work in such a sparsely populated and harsh environment. Admission is 14 EUR.

2. Visit the Finnish Museum of Photography

The photography museum houses a sizeable collection of works by Finnish artists (there are over 2 million photos here). You’ll find photos from famous Finnish photographers like Elina Brotherus and Pentti Sammallahti. They also host rotating international exhibitions as well. Tickets are 12 EUR.

3. Shop at the Central Market

Located near the harbor, this market is where you can do lots of souvenir shopping, eat some local food, and buy fresh vegetables (and lots of fresh berries in the summer). It’s usually swarming with tourists, but I heard enough Finnish there to know it isn’t a complete tourist trap. There’s also a covered portion of the market where you can find pastries, fish, meat, and cheese. Eat at the Soup Kitchen if you’re hungry (they have an amazing seafood soup).

4. Visit the Sinebrychoff Art Museum

This museum houses a lot of old paintings and portraits from the 14th-19th centuries. It’s the only museum in the city that really focuses on old European art. The bottom floor of the museum has a lot of photos and more modern works, while the top floor has the older paintings that you see as you walk through the old Sinebrychoff residence. Portrait of a Lady by Alexander Roslin and Portrait of Mademoiselle Charlotte Eckerman by Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller are two noteworthy pieces in the collection. Admission is 16 EUR and entry is free on the first Wednesday of the month from 5-8pm. Admission to the house museum on the second floor is free.

5. Relax in Sinebrychoff Park

Right near the Sinebrychoff Museum is a nice little residential park worth hanging out in. Dating to the 18th century, the park was originally a private garden belonging to a Russian businessman before becoming a public park in the 1960s. Today, you’ll find lots of coffee shops nearby so you can grab a snack and relax. Bring a book, grab a coffee, and lounge away the day!

6. Visit the Bank of Finland Museum

This museum was one of the coolest museums I’ve seen in a long time. While it does a good job illuminating the history of money in Finland, what it really does well describes the history of finance and modern finance. You get to see Euro coins from all the European countries and discover what a gold nugget looks like, but you’ll also learn how to spot counterfeit money. It offers up detailed background information and great exhibits. It was quite a learning experience! Admission is free.

7. Admire the Uspenski Cathedral

Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, this massive red cathedral is hard to miss. Uspenski is an Eastern Orthodox Cathedral with large domes and gold crosses. Made of red brick, it stands out nicely against the rest of the city. Consecrated in 1868, it’s the largest Eastern Orthodox church in Western Europe. The interior is lavishly decorated with typical Eastern Orthodox iconography (though many of the statues and items have been stolen over the years). It’s a place of worship, so dress respectfully when you visit. Admission is free.

8. Explore the Helsinki City Museum

Like the National Museum of Finland, the Helsinki City Museum offers an in-depth look at the capital’s history. There are plenty of great exhibits and photos with detailed descriptions that bring the history of the city to life. There are also photos by famous Finnish photographers like Signe Brander as well as exhibitions featuring typical Finnish homes from the 1950s and 1970s so you can see what life used to be like here. Admission is free.

9. Relax in Esplanade Park

This park (called “Espa” by the locals) is a popular place to spend a lunch hour if the weather is nice. There are usually a number of street musicians around and there are also a few eateries nearby too. Opened in 1812, you’ll find several statues honoring Finnish poets and writers such as Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Zacharias Topelius, and Eino Leino. Come here to relax, picnic, read, or people-watch!

10. Visit the Harbor Islands

There are over 330 islands that make up the Helsinki city archipelago. Suomenlinna is the easiest to reach with regular municipal ferries (you can take a ferry directly from Market Square). Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari are two other islands worth visiting, as they used to be military bases closed off to the public (during the Viking era, Vallisaari was used as an outpost that would light a fire whenever a Viking raid was coming so people could prepare). The islands have since been reclaimed by nature and turned into parks dotted with abandoned fortifications. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour; there are a ton to choose from, most last 1-2 hours and cost around 25 EUR.

11. Have Fun at Linnanmäki

Just north of the city, this amusement park is a fun place to visit if you’re traveling with kids (or if you just want to act like a kid yourself!). Opened in 1950, the park is actually owned by a non-profit that donates money to child welfare programs. There are over 40 different attractions here, including 8 roller coasters (one of which is a traditional wooden roller coaster). A wristband is 45 EUR, which gives you access to all the rides. Entry to the park itself is free, so if you want to just visit and explore you can do that without spending money.

12. Experience a Finnish Sauna

Saunas originated in Finland ( sauna is a Finnish word meaning “Finnish bath”). There are some 2 million saunas in Finland — a country with just over 5 million people — so you won’t have a hard time finding one. Many hostels, hotels, and even apartments have their own sauna. Löyly Helsinki is the most popular public sauna in the Finnish capital. A two-hour session costs 19 EUR. Just be sure to keep sauna etiquette in mind: bring your swimwear, men and women are separated, towels are acceptable (but people are usually naked), and don’t be loud.

13. See the Temppeliaukio Church

Temppeliaukio Church, also called Church of the Rock, is a Lutheran Church built directly into solid rock and partially underground. The Suomalainen brothers won an architectural competition for their design and started construction in the 1960s. The walls are all exposed stone and the roof is a huge dome that lets in natural light. Over half a million people visit the church each year, and the venue is also used regularly for concerts and large events.

14. Wander the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum

Located north of Helsinki on Seurasaari Island, the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum allows you to get up close to numerous traditional Finnish buildings from the early 18th-20th centuries. They aren’t replicas either; the buildings were collected from all over the country and brought here. There are houses, cottages, outbuildings, a windmill, and more. Opened in 1909, guided tours are available daily during the summer (it’s closed in the winter). Admission is 10 EUR.

15. Visit the Design Museum

Finnish design, like its Scandinavian counterparts, is incredibly popular, known for seamlessly integrating design elements into regular life. The Design Museum allows you to learn about the history of Finnish design and Finnish architecture over the last 150 years. It opened in 1873 and holds over 75,000 objects, 40,000 drawings, and 100,000 photographs. The museum also publishes books and exhibition catalogs about modern design. It’s 15 EUR to get in but it’s free on the last Tuesday of every month from 4-8pm.

16. Ride the Skywheel Helsinki

Located a few minutes away from Uspenski Cathedral, Skywheel Helsinki is a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city. Standing 40-meters (131 feet), it’s the best way to see the city from “above” since there aren’t really any skyscrapers here. Rides are 14 EUR and last around 12 minutes. It’s also possible to have a sauna experience while riding the Skywheel too (though it’s not cheap). Prices for the SkySauna start at 240 EUR per hour for up to 4 people, including two drinks per person.

17. Visit Amos Rex

This art museum opened in August 2018 and it’s already one of the most popular in Helsinki. It’s named after Amos Anderson, a Finnish patron of the arts. You’ll find a rotating series of temporary exhibitions from local and international artists here so check the website to see what events/exhibitions are coming up. I don’t love modern art myself, but I’m told this gallery has really cool exhibitions. Admission is 20 EUR.

18. Admire some classical art

Ateneum is one of three museums that forms the Finnish National Gallery (with the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma and the Sinebrychoff Art Museum). It has the biggest collection of classical art in Finland, with over 4,300 paintings and 750 sculptures. You’ll also find pieces by artists such as Van Gogh and Cézanne. If you love classical art, don’t miss this museum! Admission is 18 EUR.

Helsinki Travel Costs

If you’re traveling with a tent, wild camping is legal outside of the city on public land. Just make sure to be respectful and use common sense. There are also plenty of campgrounds nearby, usually charging 10-25 EUR per night for a basic two-person plot without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Generally, you can expect to pay 75-115 EUR per night for a budget hotel with free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like TV and a coffee/tea maker. During the summer, prices are closer to 100-150 EUR per night.

Airbnb is a great budget option in the city, with private rooms starting at 40 EUR (though they average double that). If you’re looking for an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR, though prices average over 120 EUR.

Average cost of food – Finnish cuisine leans heavily on fish, meat (specifically pork), and hearty vegetables like potatoes. Reindeer is commonly eaten as well as wild game like deer and moose. Smoked salmon and smoked or pickled herring are also popular dishes. Like their Scandinavian neighbors, Finns also enjoy dark bread and cheeses, usually as part of an open-faced sandwich (these are the go-to breakfast choice).

Overall, the food here is expensive in the city. Your average cheap casual restaurant charges around 13 EUR for a meal while fast food (think McDonald’s) is 9 EUR. For a three-course meal with table service, expect to pay at least 50-80 EUR.

Pizza costs around 10 EUR for a large pizza while Thai or Chinese food costs 10-15 EUR for a main dish. If you want to splash out, I suggest Ravintola Aino for good Finnish food (try the reindeer). Dishes cost between 50-62 EUR but are incredibly tasty!

Beer costs 7 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 4 EUR. Bottled water is 1.70 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, groceries cost between 50-65 EUR per week for basic staples like vegetables, bread, pasta, and some fish or meat.

Backpacking Helsinki Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do free activities like visiting the free museums, hitting the beach, and relaxing in the parks. If you plan on drinking, add 10-15 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 140 EUR, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for some meals, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the Post Museum or taking a guided tour of Suomenlinna Fortress.

On a “luxury” budget of 290 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, rent a car to explore, and do whatever activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Helsinki Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Helsinki is a super expensive destination to visit. It’s hard to visit here “on a budget” but, fortunately, there are ways to save money if you know where to look. Here are a few tips to help you keep your budget intact when you visit:

• Get a Helsinki Card – There’s a lot to see in the city and paying 10-15 EUR per attraction adds up. This tourism card grants you free admission to the main sights (as well as access to the hop-on/hop-off bus) for 50 EUR (for a 24-hour pass). You can also get a 48-hour pass for 63 EUR or a 72-hour pass for 74 EUR. It includes discounts on some restaurants as well. For an additional charge, you can add free public transit on your card too.
• Avoid taxis – Helsinki is easy to navigate with public transportation and on foot. Skip the taxis here — they add up fast!
• Stay with a local for free – Couchsurfing connects you with a local who can host you for free. You may have to sleep on a couch, but you’ll get to make a new friend and get tons of insider information about the city.
• Skip the drinking – A night out in Finland, especially in Helsinki, can put a deep hole in your pocket. To maintain your budget, avoid drinking alcohol.
• Go grocery shopping – Buying basic staples like bread, meat, and cheese for breakfast or for a quick lunch on the go can save you quite a bit of cash. By cooking your own meals you’ll save a ton of money, enabling you to eventually splurge on some great local dinners and traditional fare.
• Take the free city tours – Green Cap Tours offers daily free walking tours around Helsinki. You get to see the main sights while interacting with an expert guide who can answer all your questions. Just be sure to tip at the end!
• Check out free attractions – The Bank of Finland Museum and the Helsinki City Museum are always free. The National Museum of Finland is free on Fridays from 4:15pm-6pm. The Museum of Contemporary Art is free on the first Friday of every month. Don’t miss them when you get there without paying, you’ll save money!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is super clean, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and lower your plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a bottle with a built-in filter so you can always ensure your water is clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Helsinki

Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Helsinki:

• Cheapsleep Hostel
• Hostel Diana Park
• The Yard Hostel

How to Get Around Helsinki

Helsinki also has one of the oldest tram networks in the world (it’s been around since 1891). The trams work on the same ticketing system as the metro and bus.

Bicycle – Helsinki is small so it’s easy to get around by bicycle. Bike rentals start at 15 EUR per day.

Taxi – Taxis start at a whopping 7 EUR and go up 1 EUR per kilometer. Avoid them if you can.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Helsinki (it’s the only city in the country Uber operates in).

Car rental – Cars can be rented for as little as 25 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers must be at least 20 and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). That said, unless you’re planning on leaving the city to explore, you won’t need to rent a vehicle here. The city is easy to get around on foot and by bus.

When to Go to Helsinki

Summer is the most popular time to visit — and the best time as well. Temperatures hover between 19-21°C (66-71°F) and green spaces (and beaches) are busy but not crowded. Prices are slightly higher, however, there are lots of events happening and the city is at its busiest. That said, “busy” in Helsinki is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Paris, London, or Barcelona so it won’t be crowded

Spring is a nice time to visit Helsinki, especially in May and June. The weather is warm and there are many events, such as the Vappu Festival on May 1st (which marks the end of winter) and the Finnish Carnival in early June. Moreover, not many tourists visit in spring so things are more relaxed.

Autumn offers changing leaves and chilly weather. Daily highs average 6-8°C (43-48°F). The days are still long enough to enjoy everything, though you may need a rain jacket or a sweater if it gets cool.

Winter is a nice time to visit if you’re into winter sports. Otherwise, it’s very cold and dark so I’d avoid visiting unless you’re going to get out of the city to ski and enjoy the snow.

How to Stay Safe in Helsinki

Helsinki is a safe city. In fact, Finland is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Pickpocketing can still occur so keep an eye on your belongings while at bus stations and on crowded public transportation. Incidents are rare, but being vigilant is always a good idea.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here as Finland is very progressive and has a lot of woman’s rights. That said, the standard safety precautions should apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific advice, read one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it at night. Break-ins are incredibly rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Scams here are very rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Helsinki Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Helsinki Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Finland travel and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hostels in Helsinki

The 21 Best Things to See and Do in Helsinki

How to Spend Three Days in Helsinki

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Helsinki travel blog — the ultimate helsinki travel guide for first-timers.

Helsinki — the capital of Finland, one of the European destinations with the highest standard of living in the world. It has been voted in the top 10 most liveable cities globally for many years. Are you curious about the capital of the world’s happiest country? Let’s explore my Helsinki self-sufficient travel through the sharing below. So, where to go, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Helsinki for the first-time? Let’s check out our Helsinki travel blog (Helsinki blog) with the fullest Helsinki travel guide (Helsinki guide, Helsinki tourist guide, Helsinki visitor guide, Helsinki city guide, Helsinki finland travel guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do as well as suggested Helsinki itinerary 3 days 2 nights to find out the answer!

• What to buy in Finland 2024? — 21+ Top things to buy in Finland & best souvenirs from Finland
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Helsinki travel blog: Overview of Helsinki

Helsinki is the most populous city in Finland today with a population of over 1.3 millions of people with an area of 213.8 km² (land area) and is also the third largest city in northern Europe after Stockholm and Oslo. Located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, the city of Helsinki is the political, educational and cultural center of Finland. Helsinki is about 80 km to the north of Tallinn, 400 km to the east of Stockholm, and 390 km to the west of Saint Petersburg. Therefore, traveling between these cities is quite convenient and also easy to travel to Finland.

Helsinki blog: When to come?

June to August is the best time to visit Helsinki. Helsinki has a humid continental climate. Due to the influence of the Baltic Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean makes winters colder and summers warmer than in the rest of the country. When visiting, if you want to enjoy the longest daylight hours (around 18 hours) then go from June to August, so the summer months are your best choices.

Helsinki travel guide: Getting to Helsinki

There are many ways to get to Helsinki by plane, ferry or train. To get to Helsinki by train and other means of transport you can go to OMIO.com to searching. To reach Helsinki by ferry, access here .

If you intend to fly to Helsinki from other European cities or other destinantions, you can go to Google Flights , SkyScanner to find the most suitable flight routes depend on your departure point as well as to hunt cheap airfares.

Getting from Helsinki airport to the city center

Helsinki Airport (Helsinki-Vantaa Airport – HEL) or rather Vantaa Airport, is located in the city of Vantaa, about 20 km to the north of the center of Helsinki.

You can take a bus or train from Helsinki airport to Helsinki city center. More information can be found on the HSL website .

Each bus will run on a different route, so you need to navigate exactly where your hotel is to choose a right bus for your convenience. If you want to go to the center, you can take bus 415 or 615. Bus 615 will go to the central station. Ticket price is €4.6/way and there are ticket vending machines right at the airport exit gate.

• Bus 415 (Elielinaukio-Ylästö-Airport)
• Bus 561 (Itäkeskus-Malmi-Airport)
• Bus 615 (Rautatientori-Kartanonkoski-Airport)
• Bus 617 (Hakaniemi-Airport)

You follow the instructions in Helsinki airport to get down to the basement to catch a train. You can take trains I and P, both can reach the city center. Train tickets can only be purchased at ticket vending machines in the basement or in the airport. Ticket price is €4.6/one-way.

Tips: To see which means of transport are most suitable, you can visit the Reittiopas website . You enter the starting point and destination. It will show results and recommend the best options for you.

You should buy a Day ticket (Day Pass) instead of a single ticket to save on travel costs.

Helsinki blog: Getting around Helsinki

Helsinki Card : 24h for €53 and 48h for €73. I recommend you to buy this ticket card because it includes entrance tickets to many famous places in Helsinki such as the stone church, Sea Life and many other museums. Tickets are also cover both types of hop on – hop off sightseeing buses in the city (Design or Panaroma), free public transport including the airport route, free ferry, 50% off of the tour to the old city of Porvoo.

In general, I think this price is too good for such a package of many tourist attractions, other services as well. If you go to a separate place like Sea Life, it will cost you €16. This is probably the most benefits and convenient ticket in Europe that I have ever used. Usually with such city cards, if it give free public transport, it will not be free for hop on/hop off services.

Bicycle rental: €5/day. Each run should not exceed 30 minutes or else you will be charged €1 each time. You can find more information at the city’s official website .

Bus, train, metro, tram tickets: Single ticket: €2.8, 1-Day ticket: €8, 2-Day tickets: €12.

Note that the above fares apply to vehicles in Zone A, B (The center of Helsinki and part of Espoo). If you intend to buy a day ticket for Helsinki – Vantaa airport route, you need to buy Zone ABC tickets for €12/day or €18/2 days. Children from 7-16 years old are discounted half of the above price. If parents traveling with their baby strollers, they can ride all public transport free of charge. Tickets are purchased at ticket vending machines (can be paid by coin or card) or HSL app on the phone. Refer to the website here .

Hop on/hop off bus ticket: €27 for 24 hours.

Helsinki travel blog: Where to stay?

Here are some of hotels, apartments with the best reviews on Airbnb.com and Booking.com, you should try to check it out:

• Citykoti Downtown Studios: €109/night/2 people ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Koti Helsinki Boutique Apartments: €120/2 people ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Eurohostel : €17/dorm bed and €41/double room ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Cheapsleep Hostel Helsinki: €21/dorm bed with breakfast or €41/double room ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

In general, the price of a hotel room in the center of Helsinki will be around €40-120 depending on the location. If you want to rent an Airbnb room in the center, it will cost around €60-70 or if you need to travel by public transport with a little far distance, it will cost about €30-40.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Helka ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Lilla Roberts ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Helsinki ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Hotel Kamp ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• GLO Hotel Kluuvi Helsinki ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Scandic Grand Marina ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Helsinki travel blog: Where to go, what to do?

Helsinki, Finland is internationally once recognized as the design capital of the world in 2012. Therefore, when you come here, you will encounter very artistic scenes and countless design and art related events taking place all year round.

In addition, Helsinki is also recognized for its architectural works with the appearance of Saint Petersburg and Berlin because during the period of moving the Finnish capital from Turku to Helsinki, the Tsar ordered the German architect who designed more than 300 architectural works to construct and create a face for the new capital.

That is why Helsinki bearing an architectural interference between Berlin and Saint Petersburg.

Suomenlinna Island

Located off the Finnish capital Helsinki, the Suomenlinna islands consists of 6 small islands famous for their pristine space and surviving fortresses and war tunnels. This tourist attraction was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage in 1991 and clearly shows the strong identity of Helsinki.

This massive Suomenlinna fortress was built by a group of Swedes in the late 18th century to protect the city from Russia during the war. This is also a typical image of European military architecture at that time. The Finnish word Suomenlinna means: Castle of Finland.

The architectural works here have the appearance of a solid ancient design such as King gate, The Great Courtyard building, Augustin Ehrensvärd’s burial monument, Ehrensvärd museum.

Personally, this attraction is not as magnificent as other places, but it is very large. This place is suitable for those who want to learn more about history as well as immerse themselves in the Nordic nature.

How to get there

You find the way to Market square (Kauppatori) and take the train to Suomenlina Island. Traveling time is about 15 minutes. There is no ticket to access the island, but you need to have tickets to visit the museums on the island. The train tickets will be free if you have an HSL day tickets.

Esplanadi Park (Esplanadin Puisto)

Address: Pohjoisesplanadi, 00130 Helsinki, Finland

Esplanadi Park is located between the two streets of the same name North Esplanadi and South Esplanadi. This place was opened in 1812 and the name means “an area that’s meant to be walked on”.

Esplanadi Park is located in the heart of the city, so it is also the gathering place of locals for many main events of Helsinki. In this park, there are many famous statues, including the statues of three great Finnish writers, Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Zacharias Topelius, and Eino Leino.

Helsinki Cathedral

Address: Unioninkatu 29, 00170 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 9AM–6PM Height: 62 m Admission: free

This neoclassical architecture cathedral which was opened in 1852 is one of the most representative symbols of the city of Helsinki. This is a Lutheran Protestant church. This church was built during the period when Finland was a Russian colony with the purpose of honoring Tsar Nicholas I.

During the time Finland was colonized by Russia, the church was named after St Nicholas. It was not until Finland gained independence in 1917, then the place was renamed Helsinki Cathedral. The Senate Square right at the foot of the church is also the venue for many important events of Finland.

There is a large statue of Tsar Alexander II as a way of gratitude of the Finnish to him because they believe that it was thanks to Russia that took Finland out of the hands of Sweden that Finland had a chance to break out of the grip of Sweden for more than 600 years and has the opportunity to be as independent as it is today.

This will definitely be a must-visit place that you should absolutely not miss when visiting this Nordic country.

Uspenski Cathedral

Address: Kanavakatu 1, 00160 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 9:30AM–7PM/Saturday: 10AM–3PM/Sunday: 12–3PM/Monday: Closed Admission: free

Uspenski Cathedral is the largest orthodox church in Finland today. This cathedral was designed by Russian architect Alexey Gornoslaev and built in 1862 during the reign of Tsar Alexander II.

The red brick church is located on a high hill with eye-catching and sophisticated architecture. Thirteen golden domes and brick facades are among the most prominent traces of Russian religion in Finland.

National Museum of Finland

Address: Mannerheimintie 34, 00100 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 11AM–6PM/Monday: Closed Established: 1916 Admission: 12€

The National Museum of Finland is a combination of church and castle architecture to introduce the history of Finland from prehistoric civilization to today’s society.

The museum including four floors with many different collections. If you are interested in the development history of this country, you should not miss this place.

There are also many other museums in Helsinki and there are certain days of the week/month that are open for free. Check the My Helsinki website to see if there are any free museums during your visit.

Sibelius Park and Monument

Address: Mechelininkatu 39, 00250 Helsinki, Finland Hours: Open 24 hours

Sibelius is an internationally influential Finnish composer. He is one of the most famous composers in the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His music played an important part in defining Finland on the world music map. Because he lived during the period when Finland was under Russian domination, his works focused on the topic of praising his country and people, challenging the Russian colonial government.

His famous work, Finlandia that represents the patriotism and pride of being Finnish, was widely renowned.

The Sibelius Monument is the most important and famous part of this park. It was designed by female architect Eila Hiltunen in 1967.

The Sibelius Monument consists of 600 organ pipes attached to each other and weighs 24 tons. This place represents a vast Finnish forest with special echoes when the wind blows. A smaller version of the monument is also placed at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

Location: Töölö, Helsinki Entrance ticket: €3

Located in the center of Helsinki and opened in 1969, Temppeliaukio stone church is famous for its unique and fancy architecture. From the outside, this church looks like an old tomb and nothing special. But the architecture inside the church is what attracts tourists. Each year this tourist attraction welcomes more than 500,000 visitors, equivalent to 1/10 of the population of Finland.

This rock church is built in a huge rock that jutting out from the ground. In other words, a giant granite block was broken from the inside and built the church in the center of that block. Therefore, the church is surrounded by pristine granite walls, so the resonance is very good. In addition, the ceiling of the church is a block of copper wire. Natural light flows into from 180 glass doors in the ceiling, connecting with bronze arches and granite walls.

This place will be an ideal place for those who want to explore the fancy architecture. It used to attract a lot of attention from famous architects around the world to come and explore.

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

Address: Töölönlahdenkatu 4, 00100 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 8AM–10PM Opened: December 5, 2018

If you still have time to explore Helsinki, you should not miss the experience at the libraries here. Finnish are known for their love of reading and in 2016 were recognized by UNESCO as the world’s most read country.

The country has only 5.5 million people, but they borrow 68 million books every year on average. That’s why many people consider Finland to be a library’s paradise. And the fact that every year the Finnish libraries welcomes more than 400,000 tourists to visit.

In Finland, there are more than 300 central libraries and about 150 mobile libraries – library buses. These cars will go to all parts of the country to serve those who cannot afford to buy books or go to libraries to borrow books to read.

The Finnish government views libraries as symbolizing the importance of learning and education. Therefore, they are always willing to invest, expand and improve the library system all over this Nordic country.

Finnish libraries are not only a place to reading books, but also a place to connect people with each other. In addition to lending books, electronics, sports equipment… some large libraries also have restaurants, coffee shops, recording rooms, places for group events, children’s play areas, 3D printing, etc. The most famous libraries in Helsinki you can visit is the Oodi library and the national library.

The Oodi library was built at a total cost of €100 million from people’s taxes and was only completed in 2018. This tourist attraction is located right near the city center station, so it’s also very convenient to travel. In August 2019 Oodi was voted as the best public library in the world and welcomed more than 2 million visits (accounting for 35% of the population of Finland) every year. This library is designed as “an indoor city square”. So this place is different from the traditional library models before. Come and experience yourself!

The National Library of Finland

Located in: University of Helsinki A 2-min walk from the Helsinki Cathedral Address: Unioninkatu 36, 00170 Helsinki, Finland Founded: 1640

It is the Finland’s oldest academic library built in 1844. It is responsible for preserving and displaying the collections, printed legacies and unique works in Finland. Located in the heart of the capital Helshinki and close to Senate Square (Helsinki cathedral), this place is very easily accessible to tourists.

If the Oodi library represents simple, modern Scandinavian Nordic architecture. In contrast, the Finnish national library is classical and traditional. If you have time, you should visit both of these tourist attractions.

Löyly Sauna

Address: Hernesaarenranta 4, 00150 Helsinki, Finland Hours: 11AM–11PM Ticket price: €19/2 hours including towels, soap, shampoo. If you want to rent a bathing suit, it costs €6/2h.

Löyly is the largest and most modern sauna in Helsinki today. (Löyly in Finnish means smoke, the most important part of Sauna because the Finnish think that having a good sauna or not is completely dependent on the quality of the smoke being emitted).

As I said above, sauna is a Finnish invention and weekly sauna bathing has become an indispensable habit for anyone here. Almost every apartment building has a sauna area, so you are allowed to set a time and shower each week. Completely free, of course. As for the more affluent private houses, they also always have a sauna next to the regular bathroom in their house.

Löyly was built mainly to serve tourists as well as corporate groups that often set hours for groups. In this Löyly area, in addition to the sauna, also has a restaurant, conference rooms. So if you have had the opportunity to travel to Helsinki, try this experience. Usually here, every time they experience sauna, they will sit for 10-15 minutes in the sauna room, then go to the beach as shown in the picture to jump into the water. This form is repeated many times in about 1-2 hours. Usually, every time they come ashore, they will drink beer, chat, then go to the sauna to continue to take a bath.

As Vietnamese people think, they will probably get sick if bathing like that because of the changing of temperatures is much. It’s like being in a very hot sauna environment (70-80 degrees), then the pores are expanding, then jump into the cold sea water, then easy to get a cold… This concept is not believed by Finnish and I don’t believe it either because I did it many times but it’s okay :). So you should definitely try it when you come here.

It’s really refreshing and good for health after taking a sauna bath. According to scientific research, the sauna bath accompanied by jumping into the cold water of 0 degrees Celsius will help your body have more brown fat – a layer of fat that helps increase the immune system, resistance and improve many other diseases of human.

Helsinki travel blog: What to eat?

I only review a few restaurants that I personally think are okay. Of course, good or bad also depends on the preferences and tastes of each person.

• Vietnamese Pho restaurant . This place is rated as the best Vietnamese Pho restaurant in Helsinki. Price €10/bowl, so delicious. Address: Yrjönkatu 30, 00100 Helsinki.
• Sushi buffet + Asian savory dishes: Fuku is the best. Price €14.5 for lunch and €20-23 for dinner or weekend buffet. There is also a restaurant Itsudemo has the same type but costs €13 for lunch and €17 for weekends. These 2 restaurants are right in the center and very easy to find. There is also Caverna restaurant owned by Vietnamese people but very big. The buffet including about 30 dishes and has beef and chicken noodle soup to eat comfortably, but I find the salty food is not very good, just temporary.
• Set Buffet: Ravintola Factory Aleksi restaurant serves a lot of typical Nordic dishes and is affordable, around €10/serving . In addition, you can eat at the University of Helsinki canteen right in the center of the capital. The price is around €7 a serving.

Helsinki blog: Suggested Helsinki ititinerary 3 days

Day 1: Central Station – Oodi Library – National Library – Helsinki Cathedral – Espalandi Park – Uspenski Church.

Go to the Market square to catch the train to Suomenlina island is also near the Helsinki tourist spots above. However, I found it difficult to go all in 1 day, so I split up to go on day 2.

Day 2: Central Station – Suomenlina island – Parliament building – National museum – Rock church – Sibelius park and monument.

Before going to Suomenlinna Island, you will usually catch a train near the Market square flea market. Take a walk around the market and taste the grilled muikku fish. During these 2 days, if possible, you should include a sauna in Löyly – a pleasant experience in Helsinki.

Day 3: Take the Onni bus to Porvoo or Tallinn, Estonia. With only €20, you can buy a 2-way ferry ticket to visit the capital of Estonia. Then why not go? Obviously the cost is too cheap when you can set foot in another country. Click on this page to receive a discount code of €5 then book your tickets here .

Helsinki blog: The cost of traveling to the city of Helsinki

The mid-range self-sufficient Helsinki travel cost you can refer to as follows:

• Hotel: €35/night, shared
• Meals: €35/day
• Travel: €18/2 days
• Entrance tickets: The above attractions are free except for the rock church for €3 and the national museum for €12.

Helsini travel blog: Some useful tips before you go

To have a cheap Helsinki trip, you can apply the following tips:

• Helsinki tourist attractions to visit on Day 1 are quite close to each other. You can walk if you want.
• I highly recommend you to buy a Helsinki card instead of buying single tickets because with €73 for 2 days, you can catch the train for the airport-city route, take the tram bus in the center, visit the attractions for free, take hop on/hop off, ferry also free… In general, €73 covers all traveling costs and entrance tickets for you.
• Lidl supermarket in the center of Helsinki with very affordable prices compared to local Finnish supermarkets.
• There is a Barbarossa kebab pizza & kebab shop right in the center for only €5 a serving.
• When going to Porvoo, you should take an Onnibus and book online in advance, it will be cheaper than taking the train or other vehicles. Or if you find it complicated to travel, buy a Helsinki card with the tour to Porvoo to get a 50% discount.
• Traveling to Finland without going to Lapland is a huge omission. This is the most famous tourist destination in Finland.

Hope with the above self-sufficient Helsinki travel experiences will help you in your upcoming trip! If you are still wondering about something, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below, I will respond as soon as possible!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Helsinki you can refer to

• Helsinki Card
• Meet Santa Claus at the Arctic Circle 4D3N Tour from Helsinki with Flights
• Helsinki & Tampere 3 Day Trip from Helsinki
• Helsinki Hop On Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Helsinki and Suomenlinna Sightseeing Half Day Tour
• Helsinki Highlights Half Day Tour
• Helsinki: City Highlights 1.5-Hour Archipelago Cruise
• From Tallinn: Return Day Trip Ferry Transfer to Helsinki
• Helsinki Card City
• UK/Europe: eSim Mobile Data Plan
• Helsinki Card Region
• 90-minute Helsinki Boat Sightseeing on Beautiful Canal Route
• From Helsinki: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket to Tallinn
• Helsinki: Private Tour with a Local Guide
• Helsinki City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket
• Nuuksio National Park: Half-Day Trip from Helsinki
• Helsinki: City and Porvoo Guided Day Shore Excursion

Read more Finland travel guide here .

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Getting around Helsinki

With a population of around 600,000 people, Helsinki is not a large capital city and the best way to get around it is to walk, especially if you’re sticking to the central sights.

The main harbour, Senate Square, and almost all the major museums and shops can be reached on foot without much effort.

For destinations further afield, the public trams, buses, trains, and metro are all relatively cheap and easy to use.

But of course, if you really want to explore this archipelago city of 330 islands, you’re also going to need a take a boat (more on that later).

Here’s a quick guide to the different public transport options available to you in Helsinki! Use the menu below to hop straight to a section.

Tram Bus Metro Train Bike Taxi The ferry to Suomenlinna Buying tickets

Clean, fast, and frequent, trams are the most useful – and charming – way of accessing Helsinki’s main tourist areas. Without exaggerating, trams are the most important bit of public transport you’ll need in central Helsinki.

Google Maps and the HSL App from the Helsinki Regional Transport Authority both supply accurate information on routes and schedules, and tram stops are clearly marked with electronic displays that indicate how long until the next one arrives.

Note that the stops are announced in both Finnish and Swedish, so don’t let the two names for each stop confuse you.

You can’t pay with cash on board a tram, so buy your tickets in advance (see the section on buying tickets below for prices and more details).

Board through any door and validate your ticket at the machine by selecting your zone and tapping.

Is the Helsinki Card worth buying?

Read this guide to see how much you could save during your trip!

Public buses, while not as quiet and picturesque as trams, are also clean, efficient, and easy to use. Board only through the front door and tap your card or show your phone to the driver.

You can buy tickets from the driver, but single tickets cost €4 on the bus as opposed to €2.80 if you buy in advance. You can, however, buy day or longer passes from the driver for no extra charge.

Check the HSL app or Google Maps for routes and times.

Transport fans, get this: Helsinki has the world’s northernmost metro system . It has two lines, the Matinkylä–Vuosaari (M1) and the Tapiola–Mellunmäki (M2).

They follow the same route through most of the central part of the city, so either line will usually do.

The lines split for the last few stops in the east, while the Matinkyla-Vuosaari (M1) line goes a few stations further into the suburbs of Espoo in the west.

The metro is fast and is a good way to avoid bad weather. Also, venturing into the metro will introduce you to the Asematunneli, a vast underground network of shopping centres, stores and passages that can keep you warm and dry for blocks.

Helsinki has an extensive commuter rail system, but as a tourist the main reason you might take the train is to get from the airport to the city centre, using the I or P ring trains, with an ABC zone ticket.

You must buy your ticket in advance from a machine, a convenience store, or on the HSL app.  

Other options from the airport include taxis (about €40 to the city centre), public buses into the city and the very reasonable, comfortable Finnair private bus .

No matter the weather, you’ll see Finns on their bikes. Cycle lanes are almost always separated from the traffic, with pedestrians and ice often being the cyclist’s biggest danger.

HSL runs the ubiquitous yellow City Bikes that you can rent for as little as €5 a day from bike stations all around town. Register in advance, so you’ll be ready to ride.

In theory, you can hail taxis on the street, but it’s not common. Taxi stands are easy to find, though, or you can call a taxi, or try the TaksiHelsinki App.

Uber and Lyft exist in Helsinki, but they’re often the same price, if not more, than a traditional taxi. Taxi drivers almost always speak passable English.

The ferry to Suomenlinna

HSL also operates the ferry from Helsinki’s main harbour to Suomenlinna Island. For the price of an ordinary single ticket, you can not only visit the island, but you also get extraordinary views of Helsinki Harbour from the deck. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before you get on board.

Buying tickets

HSL runs the trams, city trains, buses, metro and ferry to Suomenlinna Island. You can buy tickets from a ticket machine on the street, in a station, or at any R-Kioski , the Finnish convenience store.

Helsinki has a zoned transport system, but if you’re staying in the city centre and not taking any day trips , you shouldn’t need anything outside the main zone (AB), other than the airport (ABC).

If you’re travelling around a lot, you can buy a Travel Card and load on however many euros you like, or select whichever plan you need (a one-day pass, for example). Or you can buy mobile tickets with the HSL app.

Download it before you arrive, so you have your tickets ready. Single-trip tickets (€2.80), day passes (€8 for one day; €12 for two days), and weekly passes (€32) are all available.

One ticket gives you unlimited travel and transfers within the travel zone on a time-limited basis (80 minutes in zone AB). If the time has expired on your ticket, you can finish the ride you’re on with no penalty, but not change to a different type of transport.

Another good option is the Helsinki Card which includes free, unlimited travel on all modes of public transport as well as museum entries and other discounts. Check out our guide to see it it’s worth buying one for your trip.

When you board your transport, you need to activate your travel card or ticket by tapping a reader. Mobile tickets are timed, so make sure you set the right time before you board.

It’s an honour system, so chances are, no one will stop you for not paying. But the “Blue Trolls,” as the ticket inspectors are known locally, do appear from time to time. If you get caught, the fine is usually €80 – and a whole lot of shame.

TOP TIP : Ask the cashier for a reflective HSL ticket holder for €5. You can flash it to hail a bus or other vehicle in the dark, which in the northern winter can be from mid-afternoon to mid-morning. Plus, it makes a great souvenir.

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Helsinki Travel Tips

Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. Many travels to Helsinki to explore countless museums , beaches, nature and events. Helsinki experiences a humid continental climate and enjoys long summer days.

International and domestic flights land at the Helsinki Airport in Vantaa, 20km from the Helsinki city centre. The airport is well-served from across Russia, East Asia and Europe. The airport offers ground transport facilities like trains every 10–30 minutes, buses, taxis and the cheapest option is shared minivans.

Helsinki is well connected with ferry services from Stockholm, Sweden, Germany, Russia and Tallinn, Estonia. Helsinki has direct services from all major train stations in Finland.

Helsinki is considered a very safe city in Finland. Despite being the capital city and a famous tourist destination, the crime rate is very low, and it maintains a relatively safe environment. However, keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, is necessary.

During peak seasons, it is advisable to be aware of pickpockets or bag snatchers, usually those who operate on bicycles or motorbikes. Tourists who want to explore the city on foot must avoid areas like Kaisaniemi Park or railway stations at night. Getting around at night can be expensive, as trains and trams stop before midnight and buses before 02:00.

In Helsinki, public transport consists of the tram, subway train, bus, metro, ferry lines and taxi. Public transportation is coordinated by Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (Finnish: Helsingin seudun liikenne (HSL). The cheapest option to travel around the city is to hop on the bus. Even renting a car can be the best option for exploring the city.

Travellers can also opt for a Helsinki Card, which offers free admission to several museums and other attractions.

Tipping is not expected in Finland since a service charge is included in hotel and restaurant bills. Finnish people offer a tip only if they wish to appreciate good service. It is not obligatory to give a tip to taxi drivers.

Smoking is strictly prohibited at Helsinki Airport, the same as other European airports, but there are smoking zones near the airport gates. A law forbids smoking in public areas like shops, offices, buses etc.

When to Travel

The best time to visit Helsinki is definitely during the summer, i.e. from May to September. In the summer, the city has long days with warm and mild weather, whereas during the winter, daytime is only for 6 hours and there are freezing nights. Major festivals and events are celebrated between June and September, so this is the best time to explore the art, culture , and weather of Helsinki.

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Save stress and hussle

Helsinki is well-known for its efficient public transportation system, making it a great way to see the top sights included in the Helsinki Card. When you purchase your Helsinki Card CITY or Helsinki Card REGION it automatically includes travel in Helsinki. Your Helsinki Card acts as your travel card throughout the validity and duration of your card. The Helsinki Card CITY can be used across all public transport within zones AB and the Helsinki Card REGION can be used across all public transport within zones ABC. 

The Helsinki Card CITY and Helsinki Card REGION cards allows you unlimited travel across all transport networks in Helsinki:

✔ Local Trains

✔ Suomenlinna Ferry

Helsinki Card CITY holders are entitled to unlimited travel within the zones AB for the duration of their Helsinki Card; 1, 2 or 3 days. Enjoy unlimited travel for 24, 48 or 72 hours after the first activation. Please note! With Helsinki Card CITY you cannot travel to/from the Helsinki Airport. If you want to travel to/from the Helsinki Airport you need Helsinki Card REGION. 

Helsinki Card REGION holders are entitled to unlimited travel within the zones ABC for the duration of their Helsinki Card; 1, 2 or 3 days. Enjoy unlimited travel for 24, 48 or 72 hours after the first activation. 

Helsinki Card (digital card) does not include public transport. You can use the Hop On-Hop Off service to move around in the city during the summer season.

Using your Helsinki Card as a travelcard

Upon boarding the public transport, make sure you scan your card on the card reader. When the card reader beeps and the light turns green, the card has been read and your journey has been validated.

The travelcard is activated from the first time it is used , so be aware, if you activate your card on public transport before visiting an attraction, this will count as activating the whole card.

PLEASE NOTE: Make sure you tap your Helsinki Card on the card reader to properly validate the journey. You may be charged a Penalty Fare if you are caught travelling without a valid ticket or Helsinki Card.

If you need to check the validity of your card at any point during the duration, you can do this by holding the card up against the reader on public transport, and it will tell you how much longer your card is valid for. If your card beeps red then it has already expired.

Public transport area and zones

Helsinki Card CITY - zones AB

Helsinki Card REGION - zones ABC

Helsinki Card (digital card) - public transport not included

ABCD – HSL Public Transport Zones

Helsinki’s public transport could be described as very well functioning. The reason for this can be found in the fact that public transport in the Helsinki area includes bus, tram, metro, commuter train and even ferry traffic.

Virtually all public transport options can be used with the same ticket. During the validity of the ticket, the means of transport can therefore be changed freely on the fly. It is therefore quite common that a single trip from Helsinki to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, for example, could include up to three different means of transport, most likely metro, bus, and train.

In Helsinki and surrounding areas, public transport is divided into different zones, which pass through the letters A, B, C, and D. When purchasing tickets instead of individual areas, there are a combination of options, e.g. AB, BC, and ABC, the latter of which covers not only Helsinki but also public transport in Espoo and Vantaa. A mere ticket for the AB zone is enough to use public transport within Helsinki.

However, you should be careful with the zones because if you are going to the airport, for example, the AB Ticket Type alone will not suffice, but a ticket covering Zone C is needed. A passenger with an incorrect or insufficient ticket may receive a penalty fee of EUR 80 for their mistake.

Fortunately, you don’t have to guess or trust your luck when choosing a ticket type; the HSL Route Guide and Google Maps show you what kind of ticket you need when you plan a route.

There are many different types of tickets, from individual tickets to one-year valid tickets. Single tickets are valid for 80 minutes for AB and BC ticket types and for 120 minutes for the larger ABC ticket type. However, it is worth noting that tickets that are in progress may be completed on the same means of transport if the ticket expires during the trip. If the ticket is still valid when boarding the vehicle, you can complete the trip without worries.

For those on a short business trip or a holiday in Helsinki, we can recommend either a day ticket or a season ticket that lasts for the duration of the trip, which allows for several public transport trips with one purchase. This type of ticket can be valid for 1 to 7 days and can be purchased using the HSL application, HSL ticket machines, the HSL service point at the railway station or other points of sale, such as R-kiosks and many shops. One-day tickets, usually printed on paper and valid from the time of purchase, can usually be purchased from one-off ticket machines located at metro stations.

Different types of public transport

Let’s take a closer look at the different means of public transport that can be used to travel in Helsinki and the surrounding areas. In this section you will also find tips on which means of transport you may want to use during your visit to Helsinki.

The bus is probably the most versatile means of transport in Helsinki and its surrounding areas. There are thousands of different connections on offer, and these cover the entire metropolitan area well. On weekdays in particular, buses also run at a very fast pace, which means that, especially on the busiest routes, buses can run up to about every five minutes.

The HSL route guide mentioned earlier is a good help when planning a bus trip. Also, Google Maps usually provides fairly reliable information about the best bus connections on your planned route. Google Maps also provides real-time information on whether the next bus is scheduled or late.

Airport Bus

Bus line 615 runs between Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and the railway station. Departure to the airport is from Elielinaukio, and a ticket for the ABC zone is required to travel the entire distance. You can visit the Route Guide website for airport bus timetables.

Helsinki’s tram traffic mainly covers the city center area. Of the tram lines, line number 2 is especially worth mentioning as it also serves as an excellent scenic route, as there are many attractions in Helsinki along that line. If you are interested in going through the scenic route, you can get back to the city center by tram 3, which you can change from either the zoo or the stops of Aurora Hospital.

If you are interested in architecture and culture, you will receive a warm recommendation for route number 4. Those interested in modern design should hop on board tram line number 6. It is a good idea to include a public transport route map to make it easier to locate stops and attractions.

Trams are one of the main means of public transport in Helsinki’s city center and run from Monday to Saturday from about 5.30 am to 11.30 pm and on Sundays from 7 am to 11.30 pm.

You can also find out more about the routes and possibilities of tram traffic on the HSL Route Guide page.

The metro connection between Helsinki and Espoo is a fast and convenient way to travel in the capital region.

As of December 2022, the updated metro line runs from Kivenlahti in Espoo to Vuosaari in Helsinki on the M1 line, and from Tapiola to Mellunmäki on the M2 line. The metro provides easy and fast access to many important destinations such as Helsinki city center, Aalto University, Itäkeskus, and Iso Omena shopping center.

The metro line is divided into three different zones, A, B, and C. Passengers only need to buy a ticket for the zone they are traveling in, and the same ticket can be used for all other public transportation in Helsinki. Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines and the HSL mobile app.

The metro operates from Monday to Saturday from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm and on Sundays from 6:30 am to 11:30 pm. During rush hours, the metro runs approximately every 2.5 minutes, and otherwise, it runs every 3-5 minutes. The metro line has a total of 30 stations located at strategically important locations in the area.

The metro line is barrier-free and suitable for passengers with reduced mobility. All stations are accessible and have elevators and escalators. The metro car floors are flat and have barrier-free access, and all cars have spaces for wheelchair passengers.

HSL’s commuter trains run in the Helsinki region. Commuter trains leave from Helsinki Central Station and arrive at the same place. Commuter trains can be conveniently reached, for example, from Kamppi to Pasila, where the Helsinki Fair Center is located.

Commuter trains are also commonly used to travel between Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and Helsinki city center. The airport train (I/P) is the most convenient way to get between the city center and the airport. The I-train passing through Tikkurila takes about half an hour to travel to the airport, and the P-train passing through Huopalahti and Vantaa takes only a few minutes longer. It should be noted, however, that the return journey back to Helsinki is again slightly faster by P-train.

The airport train station provides direct access to the terminal. For trips between Helsinki city center and the airport, you need an ABC ticket.

Ferries and boats

Helsinki is surrounded by the Baltic Sea from three different directions: south, east, and west. In addition, there are about 330 islands in the vicinity of Helsinki, most of which are in at least some form of recreational use.

The most popular destinations are easily accessible by boat, boat, or ferry. In addition, scenic cruises are organized around the archipelago, which can, of course, also be carried out with your own boat.

The most popular ferry services run between Suomenlinna, Vallisaari, and Korkeasaari and the Market Square. Of these, Suomenlinna can be reached by ferry all year round, and between the Market Square and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, HSL operates a ferry.

Moving on your own

In addition to public transport, self-propelled exercise is quite popular, especially during the summer. In Helsinki, it is easy to move from place to place both on foot and by city bike. In recent years, electric kickboards, which share a strong opinion, have also grown in popularity.

Cycling and Helsinki City Bikes

The arrival of spring in Helsinki can well be predicted by the city bikes that have appeared on the street scene, which have become a really popular way to move around the summer capital. Due to the great popularity of the bikes, there are already thousands of city bikes available in the summer and a total of more than 200 bike stations, from which the bikes can be both grabbed and left after use. The city’s cycling season traditionally continues in the Helsinki metropolitan area until the end of October.

Book hotel accommodation in a good location

Due to our location, VALO is an ideal base for a holiday or business trip in Helsinki. Our hotel is located along excellent public transport connections, allowing you to move easily and quickly between Helsinki’s city center and the airport.

Book a hotel night

In addition, our hotel’s parking lot has a large number of high-quality city bikes, which we rent to hotel guests visiting us. In connection with VALO’s premises, there is also a Green Motion rental car service.

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Valo hotel & work has once again been crowned as finland’s leading hotel at the world travel awards, valo is nominated for finland’s leading hotel in the world travel awards 2024, valo’s head of design, minna hurme, visited london to discuss the future of hotels.

Guide on How to Travel from Helsinki to Lapland

A re you heading to Finland and wondering what the best way to travel from Helsinki to Lapland? Did you know that for most visitors to Finland, these are the two most visited areas? It makes sense as most visitors fly into Helsinki, spend a day or two and then head off into the vast wilderness of Finnish Lapland.

In this guide I will help you in your travel research by providing up to date information on how to travel to/from these regions of Finland, whether its by plane, train or even car. 

One of the biggest factors in your decision about how to get from Helsinki to Lapland will be the amount of time you have and your budget. Below I go through the practical details on the three main transport options, providing the positives and negatives for each so you can make the most informed decision. Let get into it!

What are the airports in Lapland?

As I mentioned there are currently 5 airports in Lapland. Below are the airports with the main locations serviced from them.

Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)

Rovaniemi is the third busiest airport in Finland and is the most popular of the ones in Lapland. Located in the south of Lapland, just near the Arctic Circle, this airport is seen as the gateway to Santa Claus Village. Given the towns popularity, there are several flights a day between Helsinki and Rovaniemi. This is one of the few that also is international airport accepting flights from several major European cities. 

In general, Rovaniemi can feel a quite commercial and crowded, especially during the peak winter season. This airport also serves as the hub for Pyhä  and  Salla which are popular for their natural beauty and skiing, both downhill and cross country. 

Ivalo Airport (IVL)

Two popular destinations with skiers and snowboarders include Inari and Saariselka , which are both serviced by the Ivalo airport. The airport is within 30 minutes of both destinations and is the northernmost airport in Finland.

Kittilä Airport (KTT)

Kittila is one of the main airports in the northernmost region of Finland, and the only other accepting international flights. This airport services the popular ski area of Levi. Levi is a popular spot for families during the festive season, but is smaller and quieter than Rovaniemi. Additionally, the popular Snow Village can be found here.

Our favorite destination serviced by this airport is Muonio which is a laid back destination offering all the popular touristy activities found in Rovaniemi but without the crowds and is excellent for spotting the Northern Lights. 

Kemi Airport (KEM)

Kemi-Tornio Airport is located on the coast of the Bay of Bothnia, serving travelers heading to Southern Lapland. Kemi has slowly become more popular in the tourist circuits for their magnificent Snow Castle that is built there every winter and for the famous Sampo icebreaker cruise. 

Kuusamo Airport (KAO)

Lastly, the Kuusamo Airport serves one of Finland’s major holiday destinations Kuusamo, attracting almost a million tourists annually. Many of these arrive for skiing at nearby ski resorts, especially Ruka Ski Resort , one of the largest in Finland.

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Flying from Helsinki to Lapland

Domestic flights from the capital Helsinki to Lapland airports are operated by Finnair. While the flights can be reasonably priced if booked well in advance, domestic flights on Finnair do impose an extra fee for checked luggage. Additionally, the new Finnair carry on limits are quite strict with a maximum of 8 kg for all carry on items combined. This means, that for most travelers,  it makes most sense to upgrade to the main fare price which includes both carry on and checked baggage. Once you upgrade your flight, a round-trip flight will cost a minimum of €200.  Note, if you are looking for cheap flights, sign up for Finnair’s email blast and keep an eye out for flash sales.

That said, this is still the quickest way to travel between Helsinki and Lapland. It can be cost effective if you are a solo traveler and/or traveling with extremely light luggage. However, it can be get expensive if you need to check a bag or are traveling in high season with several people

Traveling by Train from Helsinki to Lapland

Next we will move on to traveling by train from Helsinki to Lapland , which is the second most popular option.

I personally find travelling by train in Finland to be a wonderful experience and the most convenient way to get around the country. The trains are clean and reasonably reliable depending on weather conditions of course. Additionally, it is better for the environment and saves you money on accommodation if you can take an overnight train to travel while you sleep. All long-distance trains in Finland are operated by VR Train. 

Day vs. Night Trains

The most popular train that visitors take to Lapland from Helsinki is the Santa Claus Express train which ends in Rovaniemi. It leaves close to midnight and arrives around 11 a.m. the next morning. If you are traveling with children, this train is great as the sleeper cabins are essentially sold as a two person cabin. Prices for an upstairs private compartment sleeper cabin which includes a private toilet run around 300 Euro one way. The train also has a restaurant car for snacks and meals while on the train. Note, Rovaniemi train tickets for the sleeper cars can sell out quickly, so book well in advance to ensure you have a cabin.

Another popular route is to Kolari, which is the northernmost railway station in Finland. Travel here from Helsinki takes approximately 14 hours. Boarding is around 7:45 p.m. in Helsinki with a 10 a.m. arrival.  Even though it sounds like a long trip, it goes by quite quickly once you get settled in your sleeper cabin, grab some food from the restaurant car and then hit the sack. 

If you are unable to secure a sleeper cabin, you can consider a day train. With free Wifi, power sockets and the ability to walk around, an 8 hour train would actually go quite quickly if you can keep yourself occupied! These tickets run around €75 per ticket during high season. 

Take Your Car on the Train

For readers who live in Europe or have a rental car already booked, they can consider putting the vehicle on the train as well! These trains depart from Pasila Station and can be extremely handy if you have brought your car over from mainland Europe, but don’t want to drive all the way to Lapland. This is not cheap, but is a dobale option to ensure you have more access to explore around Lapland.

Train Stations in Lapland

There are many train stations in Lapland that I can’t list them all, but the main ending/starting point for the major lines include Kolari as the furthest north, Rovaniemi and Kemijarvi in the east. 

Kolari is in the far north of Finland, northeast of Rovaniemi, and very close to the Swedish border. This station is perfect for those traveling to Levi or Muonio. You can reserve a shared taxi or bus from the station to both locations. 

Kemijärvi is located east of Rovaniemi and from here you can easily access Salla and Pyhä.

Overall, I personally feel that if you are traveling with others or even on your own that taking an overnight train to or from Lapland is a great option. Train travel is scenic, cost effective if you have a family or a lot of luggage and you also have the option of taking a vehicle. The negatives are that it does take a long time and there are times that the trains leave late at night making it awkward for families with smaller children. 

Driving from Helsinki to Lapland by Car

For many travelers further afield, this would mean renting a car and needing to return it either in Lapland or back to Helsinki which can be quite an expense.

I am not sure I would recommend this option for many, but if you have your car and you are confident on driving on the right hand side of the road, in snow or inclimate weather, you will most likely be fine.

But you must be aware that this journey is at least 800 kilometers and can take around 10 hours. That said, the journey up to Rovaniemi is along one main road and the views will be stunning for much of the way.

In general, I’d only advise driving to Lapland from Helsinki if you’re touring elsewhere in Finland, have your own vehicle and have at least a couple of weeks here to make it worthwhile and cost-effective.

Important Information for Your Finland Trip

When is the best time to visit finland.

In reality, you can visit Finland at any time of the year as there are a multitude of activities to suit any weather condition. That said, in my opinion, the best time to visit Finland is definitely during the winter months between December and February. This is when you will see the most beautiful winter wonderland landscapes and you have a great chance to see the aurora borealis. Note, it is also the coldest time of the year, so you will need to prepare for that!

What is the best way to get to Finland?

Finnair offers direct flights to Helsinki Airport from all over the world, including from here in Los Angeles. The international flights are on newer Airbus A350 planes which have ample legroom, flight cameras and more. Subscribe to their newsletter for deals and special offers if this is a trip you are looking to plan far in advance. 

If you are in mainland Europe, you can also make your way overland to Tallinn and take the Viking Express over to Helsinki for a very affordable rate. Note, this is also a great day trip idea from Helsinki.

Where do you recommend to stay in Helsinki?

There are so many amazing options to stay in Helsinki. I think where you stay is dependent on what you want out of your visit. During my stay in the city I was leaving on an early morning ferry and arriving late at night from the airport so I chose the Noli Studio Apartments which were cheap, clean and convenient to everywhere I wanted to go. There are several of them located throughout the city, so pay attention to the neighborhood that you wish to be in! 

If you want a little more luxury and don’t mind being a little further out, consider the Clarion Hotel which is a favorite for repeat visitors to the city. 

What are the best things to do in Finland?

There are so many amazing things to do in Finland that I can’t list them all here. But a start would be to check out our top experiences in Lapland that you can find all over the region. Winter activities are some of the best on offer here in Finland.

What do I need to pack for Finland?

Layers is the short answer. The longer answer will depend on what time of year you are visiting. Assuming you visit during the high season of winter, you will need to pack a lot of warm breathable layers such as merino wool . Overall, I would say to focus on layers, good boots that have room for several pairs of socks, good gloves or mittens and a warm hat.

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Explainer: What is GPS jamming and why is it a problem for aviation?

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WHAT IS GPS JAMMING AND SPOOFING?

Where does it occur, why is it a problem for airlines.

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Thomson Reuters

Joanna reports on airlines and travel in Europe, including tourism trends, sustainability and policy. She was previously based in Warsaw, where she covered politics and general news. She wrote stories on everything from Chinese spies to migrants stranded in forests along the Belarusian border. In 2022, she spent six weeks covering the war in Ukraine, with a focus on the evacuation of children, war reparations and evidence that Russian commanders knew of sexual violence by their troops. Joanna graduated from the Columbia Journalism School in 2014. Before joining Reuters, she worked in Hong Kong for TIME and later in Brussels reporting on EU tech policy for POLITICO Europe.

Reports on hacks, leaks and digital espionage in Europe. Ten years at Reuters with previous postings in Hanoi as Bureau Chief and Seoul as Korea Correspondent. Author of 'North Korea Confidential', a book about daily life in North Korea.

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What Is GPS Jamming and Why Is It a Problem for Aviation?

FILE PHOTO: Estonia's Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna arrives at Oslo City Hall during NATO's informal meeting of foreign ministers in Oslo, Norway June 1, 2023. Hanna Johre/NTB/via REUTERS /File Photo

(Fixes headline)

By Anne Kauranen, Joanna Plucinska and James Pearson

HELSINKI/LONDON (Reuters) -Estonia has accused neighbouring Russia of jamming GPS navigation devices in airspace above the Baltic states, echoing concerns from airlines that say they have been contending with such interference for months.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna's accusation, for which he provided no proof, followed Finnair's decision to pause flights to Tartu in eastern Estonia for one month due to GPS disturbances. The Kremlin did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

There have been reports of a rise in GPS interference around the world, particularly since last year, raising fears of an increased risk of accidents if planes veer off-course.

WHAT IS GPS JAMMING AND SPOOFING?

Photos You Should See - April 2024

GPS, short for Global Positioning System, is a network of satellites and receiving devices used for positioning, navigation and timing on Earth in everything from ships and planes to cars.

GPS is one of the more important navigation tools in aviation, which has replaced expensive ground devices that would transmit radio beams to guide planes towards landing.

However, it is also fairly easy using store-bought tools to block or distort GPS signals and militaries have invested in technology that can do so.

GPS jamming uses a frequency transmitting device to block or interfere with radio communications, usually by broadcasting signals from the ground that are stronger than satellite-based signals.

Spoofing might involve one country's military sending false GPS signals to an enemy plane or drone to hinder its ability to function and is often considered more disruptive and dangerous than jamming.

The problem for commercial aviation comes if that false signal is picked up by a GPS receiver in a passenger plane, potentially confusing the pilot and air traffic control by showing the wrong time or coordinates without warning.

WHERE DOES IT OCCUR?

In December, aviation advisory body OPSGROUP flagged a surge in spoofing affecting private and commercial jets around the Middle East, including Iraq, Iran and Israel, and the Black Sea.

It tends to impact areas close to war zones as the technology is used to send suicide drones off-track.

Baltic countries have reported the issue for years, particularly since the war in Ukraine began in 2022.

Over the past six months, jamming has worsened around the Baltic Sea, Finnair pilot and Finnish Pilots Association Safety and Security Committee chair Lauri Soini said.

Soini said GPS jamming now occurs in an area extending from Poland across the Baltic states to the Swedish and Finnish coasts, also affecting lower altitudes and maritime traffic.

While politicians and German officials have pointed to Russia as the main culprit in the Baltic states, experts say Western militaries, including U.S. and British forces could be using some form of the technology in parts of the world.

WHY IS IT A PROBLEM FOR AIRLINES?

Most modern airliners have a variety of sensors and sources to determine their positioning, in addition to GPS, meaning they can fly if there is interference.

However, according to pilots and industry experts, airlines still rely primarily on GPS. If jamming or spoofing occurs, GPS might have to be switched off and cannot be reset for the remainder of the flight in many cases.

That can cause stress and delays for take-off and landing because certain procedures require GPS to function.

GPS navigation is also the only form of navigation for some private jets.

However, AirBaltic safety manager and flight captain Janis Kristops said the Tartu incident with Finnair was rare. Most major airports have a variety of navigation tools available if GPS isn't working, he said.

And given the diverse nature of jamming and spoofing devices, it's difficult for the airline sector to come up with a sweeping technological solution that can mitigate the risk.

Instead, authorities are looking to train pilots to verify jamming and spoofing sooner.

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Welcome to the Helsinki region!

Public transport is a great way to get around the Helsinki metropolitan area.

You can use the same public transport ticket to travel by tram, bus, metro, commuter train, light rail and the Suomenlinna ferry. We recommend that you buy an ABC day ticket in the HSL app, as the ticket not only gets you from the airport to the city center but also allows you to travel within Helsinki.

From Helsinki Airport to Helsinki

An ABC ticket gets you from Helsinki Airport to Helsinki city center by train in just 30 minutes. Read more

Day tickets

A day ticket is a great option if you make several journeys during one day or several days.

Tips for travel

At stop or station.

It's advisable to buy your ticket in advance. If you want to get on a bus, put your arm out to stop the bus.

You can follow your journey on the on-board displays. There are announcements on all HSL public transport.

The HSL app allows you to buy tickets, find the best route to your destination and to get up-to-date information about service changes.

Journey Planner

Wherever you’re going in the Helsinki region, the Journey Planner finds you the best route. It also knows what ticket you need for your journey.

Single and day tickets

In addition to the HSL app, single and day tickets are available from ticket machines and sales points.

Need assistance?

Please contact our customer service for travel advice and help with buying tickets. 

Explore the Helsinki region

A day ticket entitles you to unlimited travel within the validity of the ticket. Whether you decide to take a tram to Munkkivuori or visit the Suomenlinna maritime fortress, Nuuksio National Park or Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, a day ticket is the best option for you. 

Time zones and tiredness strongly influence NBA results, study of 25,000 matches shows

The body clock has a significant impact on the performance of NBA players, according to study published in the peer-reviewed journal Chronobiology International .

The authors say their findings, from more than 25,000 matches, show elite basketball coaches and teams should consider the physical and mental effects of time zone travel when planning games and preparing for games.

A first of its kind, the research is based on the achievements at home and away of NBA (National Basketball Association) league players across 21 consecutive seasons. Considered the most competitive in the world, NBA athletes frequently travel to matches across the five US time zones used by NBA teams.

The findings show that there is a near 10% better win ratio difference for home teams from the western time zone area (PDT) when playing against a team from the eastern EDT time zone, compared to when an EDT team hosts a PDT team.

• When PDT teams play at home against EDT teams the winning percentage is 63.5%.
• When EDT teams host a PDT team, the winning percentage drops to 55.0%.

In addition, the findings also show that teams win more home games when players' sleep-wake cycles -- linked to their circadian rhythm (CR) -- are 'ahead' of the local time. This is after they have returned west from competing in a city further east where the local time is earlier.

For example, if the LA Lakers play an away match at Miami (EDT) and then return to Los Angeles (PDT) to play a home game without much CR adaptation time (CR is ahead of the local time), the Lakers play the next home game with a CR advantage against whomever their opponents are.

Teams do not have the same success when players' internal body clocks are either behind or synchronized with the local time where their home arena or stadium is based, according to the results.

Experts from Dokuz Eylül University and Yildiz Technical University, in Turkey, led the study. Dr Firat Özdalyan, a Sport Physiology expert from Dokuz Eylül, explains that they found NBA teams need to become used to the local time when they play away games to perform well.

"One of the most important results of this research for the home games of the NBA teams is that while traveling to the west increases the performance, traveling to the east decreases the performance," he states.

"Another notable finding is that the success of NBA teams increases when they are fully adapted to the local time for away games.

"Home teams who will be exposed to such a CR phase shift (traveling from west to east) should be mindful of these potential performance detriments when constructing game plans.

"It can be suggested that coaches (of away teams) should bear this (the low shooting success) in mind during the game preparation period."

A circadian rhythm (CR) is the body's sleep-wake pattern over a 24-hour day. A CR phase shift means bedtime and wake-up times move earlier or later in the day.

This means the body clock gets out of sync with the environment which can lead to sleeplessness, daytime tiredness and other issues. The body clock needs 24 hours to adapt for every one-hour time zone change.

The study investigated the effect of a CR shift on the performance of professional NBA athletes.

Data was analyzed from 25,016 regular games across 21 consecutive seasons between 2000 to 2021. Information included the date, location, game result and home or away team. Time zones of the cities where all games were played were identified to calculate the CR phase shifts of the teams.

The expert team say teams in the Pacific time zone may have an advantage in regular season home games such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Seattle Supersonics.

Anaerobic performance could explain why home teams who travel from east to west do better, say the authors. This type of activity which is crucial for scoring, defending and other feats peaks later in the day.

The authors add that the body clock adapts more easily to a long rather than a short day. The day becomes longer traveling east to west and a natural circadian rhythm is slightly longer than 24 hours. So this means basketball players are traveling in the direction their bodies want to go.

As for away teams, the authors say that travel fatigue is more likely to blame for poor performance than phase shifts in CR.

Players who have rest time between games or have not traveled across time zones for an away match are more able to synchronize their body with the local time. As such, they are not as tired and play better.

A limitation of this research is that the traveling schedules of the teams are not known. Since this information was not available, it was not possible to determine how long the teams stayed in which city/time zone; how much they adapted to the local UTC; and what extent they were exposed to a CR phase shift with real data. Therefore, the team used a predictive model for the traveling plans and CR adaptations of the teams by following the rules determined by previous research.

Another limitation is that the games were not separated according to teams' ability differences.

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Materials provided by Taylor & Francis Group . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

• Fırat Özdalyan, Erhan Çene, Hikmet Gümüş, Osman Açıkgöz. Investigation of the effect of circadian rhythm on the performances of NBA teams . Chronobiology International , 2024; 1 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2024.2325641

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