Getting around Helsinki
The Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport is the entry point of all international flights to Helsinki. It’s about 15 kms from the city center.
From the airport, tourists can travel to the city center by bus, train or taxi. Public bus 615 makes the trip to the Central Railway Station in 40 minutes and costs €3.80. The Finnair bus service takes 35 minutes and costs €5.90. The Mellunmäki metro makes the same trip in 8-10 minutes. The most convenient but expensive options to the city center are taxi (€30 to €40) or mini-van (€22).
Once inside the city, the easiest way to get around is by tram. Hop on the 3T bus (“T” is for “tourist”) to get a good look at the city center. Its route is a basic figure-eight around the city. On board, you will find tourist leaflets that focus on the city’s top attractions. The 3T bus simply goes in the opposite direction as the 2T.
For traveling to the outskirts of Helsinki, the bus is the best option. Buses begin their route at the Eliel Square (northbound) and the Railway Square (southbound). Westbound buses can be found at the Kamppi Center underground station. A metro line services the eastern suburbs.
To get to the suburbs, tourists can take the train from the Central Railway Station. To get to Suomenlinna, they should take the ferry from the Market Square.
Taxis are everywhere but can be quite expensive. There’s a basic charge of €4.50 during the day and €7 at night in addition to €1.16 for every kilometer.
Helsinki also has an extensive network of bicycle routes and plenty of places where you can rent a bike. Walking around Helsinki is a pleasant experience unless it’s summer and scorching hot.
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