Finland

Travel tips for Finland: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Finland is a nearly cashless society where cards and contactless payments are universally accepted, and some cafes, bakeries, and transit systems no longer accept cash at all.

Try the food

  • Karelian pie (Karjalanpiirakka): A traditional thin rye crust pastry filled with thick rice porridge, typically served warm and topped with a mixture of butter and chopped boiled egg.
  • Sautéed reindeer (Poronkäristys): Thinly sliced reindeer meat sautéed in fat and simmered in beer or broth, traditionally served over mashed potatoes with sugared lingonberries.
  • Creamy salmon soup (Lohikeitto): A comforting, rich soup made with fresh salmon chunks, potatoes, and leeks, heavily garnished with fresh dill.

Say it in Finnish

  • Hello: Hei
  • Thank you: Kiitos
  • Please: Ole hyvä
  • Excuse me: Anteeksi
  • How much is this?: Kuinka paljon tämä maksaa?
  • The bill, please: Lasku, kiitos
  • Yes / No: Kyllä / Ei
  • Goodbye: Näkemiin

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type F
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Safe to drink
Emergency
112 (all services)
SIM tip
Prepaid SIM cards from providers like DNA or Elisa are cheap and easily purchased at any R-Kioski convenience store, including those at the airport.

Etiquette

Tipping is not expected or required in Finland as service charges are included, but always remember to take your shoes off when entering a Finnish home.

Airports in Finland