FINLAND
Travel Guide

Yes, English is widely spoken in Finland. In fact, it is considered the second most commonly spoken language in the country after Finnish.

English is taught as a compulsory foreign language in Finnish schools from an early age, so many Finns are proficient in speaking and understanding the language. It is also commonly used in higher education, business, and tourism.

However, it should be noted that while English is widely understood and spoken in urban areas and among younger generations, there may still be some language barriers in more rural or remote areas. In these cases, it may be helpful to learn some basic Finnish phrases or use translation tools.

The Northern Lights can be seen from August to April. To witness this natural phenomenon, it is important to have dark nights. However, keep in mind that weather conditions also play a role.

The short answer is yes, Finland can be pricey to visit, but you can also make it affordable.

Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses for travelers. In big cities like Helsinki and Tampere, hotel prices can range from 100e to 500e/night, averaging around 200e during the summer. For those on a budget, there are options such as hostels and Airbnb rentals available at more affordable rates.

Food and drinks can also add up quickly. Dining out at restaurants can be costly, with prices for a meal around 15-50 euros. However, there are also more budget-friendly options like food trucks and markets where you can try local cuisine at a lower cost. At lunchtime, there are cheaper deals that normally also include coffee or tea. A glass of wine usually costs about 10e, so having drinks out can get pretty pricey.

Transportation in Finland can also be pricey. The country boasts an efficient public transportation system, but the costs of train and bus tickets can add up over time. Renting a car is another option, but it may be more expensive due to high gas prices.

But despite these expenses, there are ways to save money while visiting Finland. Many attractions and activities such as hiking trails and museums offer free admission. Additionally, taking advantage of the Finnish tradition of “mökkilife” (cottage life) and spending time outdoors in nature is a budget-friendly way to experience the country.

Yes, it is possible to visit Finland without a visa depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Citizens from certain countries are exempted from needing a visa for short stays in Finland.

Under the Schengen Agreement, citizens of EU/EEA countries can enter Finland with just a valid passport or national ID card. This also applies to citizens of Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.

For citizens of non-EU/EEA countries, they may be eligible for visa-free entry if they hold a valid residence permit issued by an EU/EEA country or have a valid Schengen visa. This allows them to stay in Finland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

If your country is not included in the list of visa-exempt countries, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate. The application process may vary depending on your country of residence, but generally requires submitting an application form, supporting documents such as proof of accommodation and travel insurance, and paying a fee. 

It is important to check the specific entry requirements for your country before making any travel plans. For more information and updates regarding visa requirements for visiting Finland, you can refer to the website of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.

The coldest month in Finland is usually January, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C in Lapland to -3°C in Helsinki. However, the actual temperature can vary depending on the location and year. In Lapland, the northernmost part of Finland, temperatures can drop as low as -45°C during this month.