Getting to Helsinki
Best Way to Reach Helsinki
- Fly into Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), Finland. This is the main international gateway to the city.
- From the airport, take the train (I-line or P-line) or a bus directly to Helsinki city center (about 30 minutes).
- Alternatively, ferries connect Helsinki with Tallinn, Estonia (approx. 2-2.5 hours) and Stockholm, Sweden (overnight, approx. 15-17 hours).
- There is no direct international train connection into Finland; domestic trains only serve destinations within the country.
- Helsinki city center is compact and walkable, within easy reach of most hotels and the event venue.
Visa & Entry Requirements
- Finland is part of the Schengen Area. EU/EEA citizens can enter freely with a valid passport or ID card.
- Many non-EU nationalities can enter visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days); others require a Schengen visa in advance.
- Requirements vary by nationality — check the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) or your local Finnish embassy before booking travel.
Emergency Contacts
- 112 — General emergency number in Finland (police, fire, ambulance), same across the EU.
- 116 117 — Non-urgent medical helpline for health advice.
Getting Around Helsinki
- Public Transport: Trams, metro, buses, and ferries are run by HSL. See the English HSL website for routes, tickets, and the journey planner: hsl.fi/en.
- Taxis & Ride Services: Uber and Bolt both operate in Helsinki alongside traditional taxis.
- Walking & Biking: The city center is very walkable. HSL also runs a seasonal city bike rental scheme (typically running through early August), with docking stations across the city.
