As the capital of Finland, Helsinki is a vibrant and human-scale city that’s easy to explore on foot or by public transport. Despite its compact size, the city offers a range of transportation options, from buses and trams to ferries and taxis. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of getting around Helsinki, exploring the best ways to navigate the city, the costs involved, and some helpful tips for your trip.
Getting to Helsinki City Center from Helsinki Airport
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is Finland’s main international airport and hub for Finnair and CityJet. Located about 20 km away from the historic center of Helsinki, the airport is easily accessible by bus or train. Here are a few options:
- Taking the Train: The fastest way to get to Helsinki Central Station is by taking the line I or P train. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and costs €5.00.
- Taking the Bus: Bus lines 615 and 617 stop at Helsinki Central Station, while Finnair City Bus stops at both Helsinki Central Station and Helsinki Market Square.
Using Public Transport
Helsinki’s public transport system is comprehensive, with metro, bus, tram, and even ferries to Suomenlinna Island! The Helsingin kaupungin liikennelaitos company manages all modes of transport. You can buy tickets online with the HSL app and see your journey routes in real-time.
Here’s a breakdown of prices for each mode of transport:
- Metro: €2.95 for a single ticket; 80-minute validity
- Bus: €2.95 for a single ticket; 80-minute validity
- Tram: €2.95 for a single ticket; 80-minute validity
- Ferry (Suomenlinna): €2.95 for a single ticket
Helsinki has five zones, A to E, with Zones A and B being the most convenient for major attractions.
- Ferries to Suomenlinna: €2.95 for a single ticket; included in daily passes
Metro
The metro system is unique because it’s the only one in Finland and operates 24/7! It consists of one line with 17 stations and 21.2 km of track, with Helsinki Central Station being a key stop.
- Single Ticket: €2.95
- Daily Pass: €8.00 (for 7 days)
Bus
The bus system covers all areas of Helsinki and is very comprehensive. With over 120 lines, you can get to any part of the city easily.
- Buying Tickets: You can buy tickets online from the HSL app or at service points. A single ticket costs €2.95, with 80-minute validity; daily passes cost €32.00 for unlimited travel
Tram
The tram is a panoramic way to see the city, offering slow-paced travel with breathtaking views of Helsinki’s architecture and parks.
- Prices: Single ticket: €2.95; Daily pass: €8.00
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Ferry
The ferry is a great way to get around Helsinki, especially if you want to visit Suomenlinna Island! You can use the same tickets as other modes of transport.
- Prices: Single ticket: €2.95
- Suomenlinna Ferry (Line 19): €2.95; Daily pass: €8.00; Weekly pass: €32.00
Driving in Helsinki is not recommended, as the city is easily explored on foot or by public transport. If your itinerary involves exploring Northern Europe by car, it might be better to visit Helsinki first and then rent a car from there.
Low Emission Zone (LEZ)
Helsinki has become a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), with the aim of reducing private cars in the city. The zone currently affects only buses and taxis for cleaning purposes but is subject to change.
- Parking: Parking is allowed only in designated areas, with prices ranging from €2.00 to €4.00 per hour, depending on the area. Orario: 09:00 – 21:00 (Monday to Friday)
In conclusion, Helsinki’s public transport system is an efficient way to explore the city, and using buses, trams, or ferries is a great alternative to driving.
Tips for Your Trip
Here are some helpful tips for your trip:
- Buy Tickets Online: You can buy tickets online with the HSL app, which also helps you plan your journey in real-time.
- Daily Pass: If you’re planning to use public transport frequently, consider buying a daily pass, which costs €32.00 for unlimited travel
- Free Travel for Children: Children under 6 years old can travel for free with an adult’s ticket.
- Payment Options: You can pay using cash, credit cards, or the HSL app. Credit card payments are accepted on buses and trams.
- Night Trains: Night trains operate on weekdays between Helsinki Central Station and various parts of Finland.
Public Transport Etiquette
Here’s a few tips for public transport etiquette in Helsinki:
- Respect Personal Space: Keep to yourself, especially during peak hours when the train can be very crowded.
- Smoking is Prohibited: Smoking is prohibited on all forms of public transportation and within 10 meters of entrances to metro stations.
- Follow Traffic Rules: Be mindful of traffic rules and follow them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Helsinki’s public transport system is an efficient way to explore the city. With its comprehensive network of buses, trams, and ferries, you can easily get around without a car. The city also offers a unique Low Emission Zone (LEZ) to reduce private cars. Follow the tips above for your trip, and you’ll be navigating Helsinki like a pro in no time!
