The abundance of lakes in the south of Finland, the deep forests and unspoiled nature in many places are particularly fascinating. The short, but all the more intense summer lures you into nature – for swimming in one of the countless lakes or at the sea, for hiking, cycling or kayaking. A holiday in Finland decelerates and sharpens the sense of the loneliness that can still be discovered here. Especially in the east of Finland or in the far north, for example at Lake Inari, the feeling is omnipresent. But not only nature is worth discovering in Finland: the capital and cultural metropolis Helsinki and the attractive Turku with its long history are of course also often destinations for a trip to Finland.
Entry requirements
According to COUNTRYAAH.COM, Finland belongs to the EU and is a member of the Schengen area. German citizens need a valid identity card or passport with sufficient validity to enter the country. Children need their own identification document, entry in their parents’ passport is no longer accepted. Other citizens please inquire at the relevant embassy.
Currency
In Finland, the euro (EUR) is used to pay.
ATMs are common, especially in the larger cities. To be able to withdraw money, you need a credit card or an EC card with the “Maestro” symbol. International credit cards are common. Even smaller purchases are often paid for by credit card. Remember your PIN!
Time zone
CET + 1 hour
Climate
Temperate and cool climate with quite warm summers and cold winters, which is generally mild despite the northern location. Due to the great north-south extension, there are great regional differences.
Language
The national languages are Finnish and Swedish (Swedish is mainly spoken in the southwest). Many locals, especially those who work in tourism, have a very good command of English.
Telephone / Internet
The international dialing code is +358 according to ALLCITYCODES.COM.
Electricity & mains voltage
The voltage is 230 volts, 50 Hz, so that all devices can be used without any problems.
Emergency numbers Central emergency number 112
Arriving by plane
The largest international airport is Helsinki Vantaa. There are also airports in Oulu, Tampere, Turku, Vaasa, Rovaniemi and Kittilä.
Arrival by ferry
Finland can be easily reached from Germany by ferry: the ferry crossing from Lübeck-Travemünde to Helsinki takes about 27 hours. There are also several daily departures from Tallinn (Estonia) to Helsinki and connections from Stockholm (Sweden) to Helsinki.
The following applies to traveling by car …
If you are traveling with your own car, you should definitely have your driver’s license and vehicle registration with you. It is also advisable to have the green insurance card with you. If you are not traveling with a vehicle registered for you, we strongly recommend that you obtain a power of attorney from the vehicle owner.
Fuel names are not necessarily identical to “our”. It is important to choose the correct octane number, 95 stands for super, 98 for super plus.
In the far north of Scandinavia in particular, the network of petrol stations is getting thinner, so take advantage of every opportunity there.
Maximum speed in urban areas: 50 km / h
Maximum speed outside urban areas: 80-100 km / h
Maximum speed on highways: 120 km / h
Blood alcohol limit: 0.5
You must drive with dipped headlights / daytime running lights all year round.
(Information without guarantee, please inform yourself about the relevant provisions before departure)
Best travel time
The best travel time for Finland is the summer and thus the months of June, July and August. The time of the “white nights” around the summer solstice offers a special experience for many. This is the best time, especially for a stay in nature. But the beginning of autumn can also be attractive. City trips, for example to Helsinki, are basically possible all year round.
For winter sports enthusiasts and snow fans, of course, depending on the region, the very long and cold winter, especially the months of December to March. In the far north, the chances of seeing the northern lights are good in the winter months.
Health
The European health insurance card should be carried as proof of EU-wide insurance coverage. A private international travel health insurance is also recommended.
The supply of doctors and pharmacies is good. Of course, be sure to take with you any medication that you need to take on a regular basis. If you travel close to nature and in remote areas, you should stock up on the most necessary medication (for diarrhea, fever and pain, disinfectants, …) in advance.
If necessary, seek advice from your doctor about a vaccination against early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE).
Holidays and memorial days In addition to Christmas, New Year and Christian holidays with changing dates such as Easter, the following holidays apply:
January 6th, Epiphany
, June 21st, Midsummer
November 1st, All Saints
December, 6th Independence Day
Embassies & Consulates General
German Representation
Krogiuksentie 4b
00340 Helsinki
Tel: +358 9458580
Austrian Representation
Unioninkatu 22
00130 Helsinki
Tel: +358 96818600
Swiss Representation
Kalliolinnantie 16 A 2 a
00140 Helsinki
Tel: +358 96229500
