Visa and Immigration Procedures to Finland

Finland - Local Climate / Weather

Finland has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, especially in Lapland, where temperatures can dip below -20°C, creating ideal conditions for winter sports and the Northern Lights. Summers (June to August) are mild, with average temperatures around 20°C, especially in southern regions, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and experiencing the Midnight Sun.

Finland - Currency & Tipping

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Currency

Finland uses the euro (€), with common denominations in coins (1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents; €1 and €2) and banknotes (€5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500). ATMs, known as "Otto" machines, are widely available in cities and towns, and credit cards are commonly accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels, including Visa and Mastercard. Always check for card acceptance when in rural areas or smaller towns, where cash may be more common.

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Finland and is generally not expected, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated if the service was exceptional. Here are a few specific tipping practices: ・Restaurants: Tipping is optional. If desired, you can round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation. ・Taxis: Tipping is not customary. You may round up the fare to the nearest euro for convenience. ・Hotels and Services: Tipping for hotel staff is not common. For extraordinary service, you can offer a small amount as a courtesy.

Useful Travel Information

Finland - Voltage & Electrical Outlets

Finland uses 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. Power outlets are Type C and Type F, the same as many European countries, with two round prongs. Travelers should bring a universal adapter or a Type C/F plug adapter if their devices are not compatible with these outlets. Ensure your devices can handle 230V to avoid any issues.

Finland - Internet Connectivity

Finland has an excellent internet infrastructure, with high-speed Wi-Fi widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in cities like Helsinki. Free public Wi-Fi is accessible in major city areas, airports, and train stations, making it easy to stay connected. For more consistent access, consider a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi rental to stay online while traveling.

Finland - Water for Consumption (Drinking Water)

Finland’s tap water is among the cleanest and safest in the world and is safe to drink directly from the tap. Avoid buying bottled water to save money and reduce plastic waste. In restaurants, tap water is typically provided for free upon request.

Culture, Religion & Social Etiquette

Finland - Culture

Finland is famous for its sauna culture and Santa Claus. In addition, it is famous for its top level of academic achievement worldwide and its special educational policy. Many people are shy and shy, and their voices are small and their speech seems to lack much liveliness. As a result, they are not very sociable, but they are said to be very kind to their relatives and those close to them. For some reason, cold-weather swimming is very popular, although it is said to be for health maintenance. In Finland, berry picking and mushroom picking are recognized as a national right.

Finland - Religion

Finland’s culture celebrates a strong connection to nature, a love for saunas, and seasonal traditions like the Midsummer festival and winter holiday celebrations in Lapland, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Finland - Social Etiquette

Finns value privacy, punctuality, and politeness; it’s customary to greet with a handshake, speak quietly in public spaces, and remove shoes when entering someone’s home, making these helpful tips for travelers.

Finland - Food Culture

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Finnish cuisine, or "Finncuisine," emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients with popular dishes like salmon soup, Karelian pastries, and reindeer meat; street food such as grilled sausages (makkara) and Finnish meat pies (lihapiirakka) can be found at markets, while local restaurants like Savotta in Helsinki offer an authentic taste of Finland’s culinary traditions.

Finland - Major Tourist Attractions & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Finland - Major Tourist Attractions

The capital city of Helsinki has its own cathedral and rock church, but the best Finnish sightseeing is more about exploring the idyllic suburbs, such as Suomenlinna, a beautiful fortress connecting four islands, and Hameenlinna, the birthplace of the composer Sibelius, which can be visited on a day trip from Helsinki. The northern Lapland is a place where you can see the Finnish image of Lapland. In northern Lapland, the forests and lakes are just as you would expect in Finland, and if you are lucky, you may even be able to see the northern lights. Other popular destinations include Moomin World in Naantali, which recreates the world of the Finnish-born Moomins, and Rovaniemi, home to the Santa Claus Village.

Finland - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The World Heritage Sites in Finland include the Old Town of Rauma with its famous wooden streets, the Suomelinna Fortress on the sea by ferry, the Old Church of Petajavesi with its wooden architecture, the Verla Crushed Wood and Paper Mill, the first sawmill in the country, the Bronze Age stone mounds at Sammallahademäki, and the Geodetic Arc of Struve”. The natural heritage site “Högaksten and the Archipelago of Schwarken” is registered.

Finland- Souvenirs

When visiting Finland, picking up a few souvenirs is a great way to remember your trip and share a piece of Finnish culture with friends and family. From traditional handicrafts to delicious treats, here are some must-buy souvenirs that travelers should consider: One of the most iconic Finnish souvenirs is Marimekko products, known for their bold patterns and vibrant colors, including bags, clothing, and home decor items. You can find these stylish goods in shops throughout Helsinki and other cities. Lapland handicrafts, such as beautifully crafted reindeer leather goods and Sami-inspired jewelry, make for unique keepsakes. Look for authentic items at local markets or specialty shops, where artisans showcase their work. For a taste of Finland, consider purchasing cloudberry jam or salmon fillets to take home. These local delicacies can be found at food markets like the Helsinki Market Square, where you can also sample traditional Finnish street food. Another great option is Finnish design glassware from brands like Iittala, famous for their colorful glass products, including vases and tableware. Visit design shops in cities like Helsinki to discover these elegant pieces.

Things/Items Allowed into Finland

Things/Items Forbidden out of Finland

Things/Items Forbidden into Finland

Finland Travel FAQs

Finland - Direct Flights to Major Airports

Flight Routes to Finland