How to Get Around Finland?
A vast country with contrasting landscapes, Finlande is traversed across long distances, whether heading to Lapland or exploring the thousands of lakes in the south. Its modern and efficient transport network simplifies travel, whether by car, bus, train, plane or sea.
A vast country with contrasting landscapes, Finlande is traversed across long distances, whether heading to Lapland or exploring the thousands of lakes in the south. Its modern and efficient transport network simplifies travel, whether by car, bus, train, plane or sea. Each traveler can choose the mode that best suits their budget, available time, and travel preferences.
Traveling by Car
Driving in Finlande offers great freedom, ideal for exploring Lapland or accessing rural areas less well served by public transport. Roads are well-maintained and rental companies offer vehicles adapted to local conditions.
- Car rental: rental networks available everywhere, vehicles equipped for winter conditions.
- Winter conditions: winter tires mandatory from December to March, caution required on snow and ice.
- Exploring Lapland: car remains the best option for reaching isolated villages.
Bus Network
The bus remains a practical and economical alternative, especially in regions where trains don't operate. Matkahuolto covers most of the country, OnniBus offers low-cost routes between major cities, and several regional companies provide connections to remote Lapland villages. For travel beyond the main rail routes, the bus combines accessibility and flexibility.
Trains in Finlande
Train travel is one of the most enjoyable ways to journey through the country. Operated by the national company VR, trains are punctual, modern and comfortable, with services adapted to long journeys.
- Main routes: fast connections between Helsinki, Tampere, Turku and Oulu.
- Night trains: the Santa Claus Express connects Helsinki to Lapland with berths, private cabins and the option to board your car.
Domestic Flights
To cover long distances quickly, flying is the way to go. Domestic connections link Helsinki to major cities such as Oulu or Turku, as well as to Lapland with Rovaniemi, Ivalo or Kittilä. In less than two hours, you reach the north of the country, a journey that would otherwise take an entire night by train. Finnair serves the entire territory, while Norwegian offers certain routes at competitive prices.
Ferries and Maritime Links
With its archipelagos and long coastlines, Finlande can also be discovered by sea. Ferries connect Turku, Naantali or Vuosnainen to the Åland Islands, then a local network (Ålandstrafiken) allows exploration between the islands. From Helsinki, daily crossings reach Tallinn in two hours or Stockholm via the Åland Islands. These journeys, which sometimes resemble mini-cruises, offer a unique maritime experience with cabins, restaurants and views over the Baltic Sea.
Urban Transport
In major cities, and especially in Helsinki, public transport is reliable and easy to use thanks to the HSL network.
- Trams, buses and metro: dense network connecting city center and suburbs.
- HSL tickets: unified for buses, trams, metro, suburban trains and ferries to Suomenlinna.
- Active mobility: bike-sharing and electric scooters complement the offering.
Traveling in Finlande is simple thanks to modern and efficient infrastructure. By choosing the mode of transport suited to your distance, budget and available time, you'll fully enjoy the country's varied landscapes and rich offerings, without constraints.


