When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Helsinki?
Summer (June to August) is the peak season to travel to the city. Helsinki flight prices will rise accordingly, but the long days mean many Finns are also on holiday, and some businesses might be closed. To avoid crowds and secure cheap flights to Helsinki, look to travel in the spring and autumn months: April, May, September and October.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Helsinki?
Book your return flights to Helsinki at least two months in advance to secure the best prices, especially if you wish to travel in the summer. Outside of the summer months, Helsinki flight prices will be cheaper, but keep an eye out for last-minute flight deals. Be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals.
Flying to Helsinki Airport (HEL)
Helsinki Airport (HEL) lies about 16 km north of the city centre. It serves about 19 million passengers each year and was originally built for the 1952 Summer Olympics that were held here.
There are direct flights to Helsinki from London Heathrow with British Airways and Finnair. Finnair also leaves from Edinburgh and Manchester. Norwegian Air, on the other hand, departs from London Gatwick. Flights to Helsinki from other UK airports are available if you wish to take an indirect route. Helsinki flights from the UK will include stopovers in cities, such as Amsterdam, Gothenburg, Berlin, Paris, Frankfurt or Stockholm. On some occasions, you may need to change airlines during your stopover, but this is not always necessary.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
There are two terminals at the airport, which are connected by a pedestrian walkway both in the air and on land. It takes just a couple of minutes to go from one to the other. Terminal 1 is primarily used for domestic flights, although it does serve some international flights, while Terminal 2 serves both domestic and international. The airport has several passenger amenities, including charging points for your electronics, free Wi-Fi, lockers, VIP and executive lounges, ATMs and currency exchange kiosks. There is also a book swap service and children’s play areas. Food and drink shops and duty-free shops are also available.
Getting to the City from Helsinki Airport (HEL)
It has never been easier to get from HEL to the city centre. The P and I trains take 30 minutes and will take you to the main station in Helsinki. The entrance to the train station is located between the two terminals. Tickets can be either bought from the station, airport shops or the tourist information desk. Buses stop outside each terminal; you can either take Line 615 or 617, depending on which part of Helsinki you’re travelling to. You can also take a taxi with a fixed price to the city centre; which it can be booked in the arrivals hall. There are also a number of car hire companies at the airport.
Why Visit Helsinki?
Finland’s capital brings smart design and Baltic views together for a perfect taste of this Nordic country. The centre is easily walk-able, and if not, the trams make connecting with different parts of the city easy and affordable. You can easily take in the sights, such as Helsinki Cathedral, a breath-taking structure at the heart of the city. Visit the Helsinki City Museum for a fascinating overview of the history of the capital and surrounding region.
Architecture lovers can venture over to the island of Katajanokka to explore the art nouveau buildings and the Russian Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral. Those looking for nature don’t have to venture too far either; take a boat to the archipelago islands, stroll on nearby beaches or head out to the forests outside the city. When the snow falls and blankets the city, take advantage of the many skiing, ice skating and ice fishing activities on offer. Additionally, there are events and festivals all year to keep you entertained.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
British passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to any country in the EU – you can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You just need to make sure that your passport has at least six months validity left, on the day you travel. Finland uses the euro. ATMs and currency exchange offices are widely available and accept most international credit cards.
