Arrival Instructions
There are three recommended ways to approach Helsinki for an international guest.
By Plane
Take a flight to Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport. Most airlines flying to Finland have flights to this airport.
However, some airlines such as Ryanair might offer some low-priced tickets to Tampere, but it should be noted that it is an additional two-hour journey to Helsinki from Tampere.
By Ferry
Ferries from Stockholm (Sweden), Tallinn (Estonia) and Rostock (Germany) frequently sail to Helsinki and provide an alternative arriving strategy.
By Train
From both St. Petersburg and Moscow (Russia) it is possible to take a train to Helsinki.
Transportation from Helsinki Airport
By bus: There are two bus lines from Helsinki aiport to city. The communal line 615 runs from aiport (terminal T1, platform 2) to Helsinki railway station, travel time is about 35 mins. Tickets cost 4 euro and can be bought from the driver. Ticket is valid for one hour in all communal trafic, including tram lines. The Finnair City bus runs also to railway station, price is 5.90 euro and credit cards are accepted.
By Taxi: Taxi ride takes about half an hour and costs 35-40 euro. There are also some fixed price group taxi companies in the airport (Yellow Line, Airport Taxi). Price for 1-2 persons to Helsinki city starts from 23 euro, 3-4 persons from 28 euro. Reserve the transportation from their service desks at the airport arrival hall.
From Helsinki Railway Station to Hotels
Please see the ELS'XII Map for the locations. All the places for accommodation are within walking distance from the railway station, especially the Sokos Hotel Helsinki. If you like, you can take tram number 7B (see map for stop) to University Guesthouse or tram number 4 to Eurohostel Katajanokka. The price for tram ticket ranges from 1.80 to 2.50 euro, depending whether it is bought from vending machine or from driver.
Parking for Car
If you are coming by car, you can park for free at the old Observatory (see ELS'XII Map). We will arrange that the gates are open.