If you’re planning to travel to Finland, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and countless lakes, it’s important to remember that it may not be the most budget-friendly destination.
Traveling in Finland can be quite expensive, especially compared to many other European destinations.
But fear not! In this article, we’ll help you understand the budget and get some tips to get you started. Let’s begin.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation can be one of the biggest expenses for travelers in Finland. Hotel prices can be quite steep in major cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. A mid-range hotel room can cost between €100-150 per night.
If you’re looking for luxury hotels or boutique accommodations, be prepared to pay over €200 per night. But don’t worry, there are more budget-friendly options available. Hostels are common in larger cities, with dormitory beds ranging from €20-40 per night.
Private rooms in hostels or budget hotels might be priced between €50-80 per night. Additionally, Airbnb offers a range of options, from shared spaces to entire apartments, often at competitive prices, especially if booked in advance.
Food and Dining Expenses
The cost of food in Finland can vary greatly depending on where and what you choose to eat.
Dining out in restaurants can be pricier, with an average meal at a mid-range restaurant costing between €15-25 per person. If you’re looking for a three-course meal at a higher-end restaurant, be prepared to spend €50 or more.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are ways to eat without breaking the bank. You can grab a quick bite at fast food joints, both local chains and international favorites, where meals usually cost around €8-10.
We recommend checking out the markets and local bakeries for a delightful and pocket-friendly taste of Finnish cuisine. You’ll find reasonably priced traditional foods like rye bread, salmon, and various pastries.
Snow heaven during spring in Finland
Transportation Costs
Now, let’s talk about transportation costs. Getting around Finland can be a bit pricey. Public transportation in cities is efficient, but it can add up.
If you plan on using public transport often, it’s smarter to go for day or multi-day passes, as they offer better value. If you plan to travel between cities, your best options are trains and buses.
Buses, operated by Onnibus and Matkahuolto, can be a cheaper alternative, especially if you book in advance. You can snag fares for as low as €10 for longer routes.
Renting a car allows you to explore Finland’s scenic routes and remote areas, but it can be a pricey choice. Daily rental rates start at around €40-60, which doesn’t even cover fuel and insurance.
Entertainment Costs
Finland has many things to do, from city cultural experiences to outdoor adventures in the countryside.
Many city museums and attractions charge entrance fees ranging from €10-20. However, some museums offer free entry on specific days or during certain hours.
If you’re a nature lover, you’re in for a treat. Many outdoor activities like hiking, berry picking, and swimming in lakes are free or affordable.
National parks don’t charge entrance fees, so they’re fantastic budget-friendly destinations.
However, if you’re interested in organized tours like guided hikes, boat trips, or Northern Lights excursions, be prepared to shell out anywhere between €50-200 per person.
Tips for Saving Money
- Travel Off-Season: Visiting Finland during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to score lower accommodation and flight costs and avoid crowds.
- Use Public Transport: Take advantage of public transport passes and consider hopping on a bus for intercity travel. It’s a great way to save some cash on transportation.
- Self-Catering: Save money on food by buying groceries and cooking your meals. Look for accommodations that have kitchen facilities.
- Explore Free Activities: Finland’s natural beauty is yours to enjoy for free. Take a stroll in parks, forests, and lakes.
- Book in Advance: If you want to score better deals on transportation and accommodation, booking in advance is a good idea.
Remember, Finnish summer is equally beautiful.Conclusion
And there you go, a breakdown of the expenses in Finland. By planning and taking advantage of budget-friendly options, you can manage the costs of traveling in Finland.
It can be a bit pricey but with the proper plan, you’ll ease in for sure. Good luck and thank you for reading!