Experience Finland Without Breaking the Bank
Let’s face it: Finland can be expensive. However, with some careful budgeting and clever planning, it’s entirely possible to have an incredible trip that doesn’t cost a fortune. Fortunately, many attractions that draw travelers to Finland are either free or cost very little: from foraging walks to breathtaking Northern Lights displays, refreshing dips in the Baltic Sea to relaxing lakefront saunas.
From where to stay and eat, to getting around and sightseeing, this guide will help you see Finland affordably.
Flying is the Cheapest Way to Get to Finland
Flying is, overall, the cheapest and easiest way to reach Finland, particularly if you fly into Helsinki, which boasts direct flights to Europe, North America, and Asia. Budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet offer fantastic deals, particularly during the low and shoulder seasons. Moreover, larger airlines like Finnair and Norwegian frequently feature economy deals. The more flexible your travel plans are, the better your chances of snagging a bargain.
Consider Alternate Airports
While Helsinki is often the obvious choice, consider flying into other regional airports if you are heading straight to other destinations. For example, if Lapland is your goal, flying directly to Rovaniemi can save you money and time. Airlines like Ryanair often have seasonal flights that can be more economical, especially in winter.
Travel in the Shoulder Season to Save Money
Everyone claims that July is the best month to visit Finland; however, visiting in the shoulder season allows you to escape the crowds and save significantly. May, with blooming landscapes and warming weather, is a wonderful time along the Baltic coast and in Finnish Lakeland. Early June is also a great choice, as is September when many accommodations and attractions are less crowded, making for a more affordable getaway.
Visiting Lapland on a Budget
A trip to Lapland to see Santa can be costly, especially if you choose an expensive package. However, planning your trip independently can save you significant money. Aim for November, January, or March to visit when rates are lower, yet you can still enjoy the winter wonderland without missing out on festive charm.
Stay in a Hostel
If you are traveling solo, hostels offer great value. Expect to pay around €40 ($44) for a dorm bed. While hostels may lack in style, they make up for it in facilities — most include kitchens for convenient meal prep, shared lounges, and sometimes even saunas.
Sleep in the Wild
In Finland’s remote areas, there are excellent campgrounds and cozy cabins available for rent. Embrace the experience by using the ‘everyman’s right’ to camp freely in nature. When wild camping, respect the environment and others by following a few simple guidelines: camp in high, remote areas, limit your stay, and leave no trace.
Rent a Holiday Home for Groups
If you’re traveling with family or friends, renting a holiday home can be more affordable and enjoyable compared to booking multiple hotel rooms. Look for options on platforms like Airbnb or local sites that specialize in Finnish cottages, offering everything from log cabins in Lapland to lakeside retreats.
Book Hotels on Weekends for Discounts
Hotels in Finland that cater to business travelers often offer significant discounts on weekends and during the July holiday period, making this an ideal time to find upscale accommodations at lower prices.
Utilize Bus Transportation
Punctual and inexpensive, Finland’s long-distance buses cover a larger network than trains. They serve as the cheapest travel option for city-to-city journeys. For budget-friendly intercity routes, consider utilizing Onnibus, operating from Helsinki and often offering lower fares if booked in advance.
Book Car Rentals Ahead
If you plan to explore Finland’s beautiful wilderness, renting a car is essential. Booking in advance can lead to better deals, as using price comparison sites can allow you to secure the most competitive rates. Additionally, rideshare options can be useful for those willing to share their travel experience.
Enjoy Affordable Meals
Start your day right with a hearty breakfast; most hotels and hostels offer generous buffets. Lunchtime dining is also more affordable than dinner, with cafes offering all-you-can-eat options for €10-15 ($11-16.50). When it comes to beverages, be mindful that alcohol can add up quickly; opting for tap water is a great, cost-effective alternative.
Forage for Your Meals
Finland is a forager’s paradise. With the ‘everyman’s right,’ you can pick wild berries and mushrooms during the appropriate seasons. From juicy strawberries to creamy cloudberries in the Arctic, foraging offers a unique, cost-free way to enjoy local flavors while connecting with nature.
Immerse Yourself in Nature
Private excursions can be costly, but Finland’s stunning natural landscapes are mostly free. Take advantage of this by hiking scenic trails, wild swimming, or cooking over a campfire under the midnight sun, especially when it’s illuminated by the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Daily Costs Overview
- Dorm bed in a hostel: €25-35 ($27.50-38.50)
- Basic room for two: €80-100 ($88-110)
- Holiday cottage: €80-150 ($88-166)
- Museum entry: €10-14 ($11-15)
- Car hire: €25-50 ($28-55)
- Public transport ticket: €2.80 ($3)
- Bike hire: €10-20 ($11-22)
- Kayak rental: €30-60 ($33-66)
- Two-hour husky sled ride: €90–140 ($99-155)
- Coffee: €3-6 ($3.30-6.60)
- Sandwich: €5-7 ($5.50-7.70)
- Piece of cake: €6-8 ($6.60-8.80)
- Lunch buffet: €10-15 ($11-16.50)
- Main course in a restaurant: €18-30
- Dinner for two: €60-100 ($66-110)
- Beer at the bar: €6-9 ($6.60-9.90)
