Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)

Arriving passengers follow clear overhead signage through passport control (for non-Schengen flights), baggage reclaim, customs, and directly into the central arrivals hall.

• Disembark and follow signs towards Baggage Claim and Exit.
• Passengers arriving from non-Schengen countries pass through passport control operated by the Finnish Border Guard.
• Proceed to the central baggage reclaim hall to collect checked luggage from designated carousels.
• Pass through Finnish Customs, choosing the green channel if carrying goods within standard duty-free limits, or the red channel if declaring items.
• Exit into the arrivals hall, which connects directly to the underground train station, bus terminals, taxi ranks, and airport hotels.

• Train

  HSL (Helsinki Region Transport)

  Commuter trains P and I run frequently from the underground station located directly beneath the terminal to Helsinki Central Station.

  Time:

  roughly 30 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically EUR 4 - EUR 5 (ABC zone ticket)

• Bus

  HSL (Helsinki Region Transport)

  Local bus line 600 provides direct surface route connection between the airport and central Helsinki.

  Time:

  roughly 40-50 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically EUR 4 - EUR 5 (ABC zone ticket)

• Taxi

  Contracted airport taxi operators

  Designated taxi ranks are situated immediately outside the main arrivals exit, featuring fixed-fare lanes and metered vehicles.

  Time:

  roughly 25-35 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically EUR 45 - EUR 60

• Car rental

  Major international rental operators

  Rental desks are located inside the main corridor, with vehicle pickup areas nearby in the parking structures.

  Time:

  roughly 25-35 minutes to city centre

  Typical cost:

  varies by provider and vehicle model

Transferring between flights takes place entirely within the single terminal structure.

• Schengen to Schengen transfers require no security or passport checks upon arrival.
• Non-Schengen connecting passengers must clear transfer security and passport control before reaching their departure gate.
• Clear overhead flight information screens guide passengers directly to their connecting gate area.

Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is provided throughout all areas of the airport terminal.

• Select the network named Finavia Free Wi-Fi.
• No registration, email address, or password is required to gain access.
• Workstations and power sockets are located near seating areas across the departure gates.

Finland uses the Euro (EUR); electronic card payments are standard across all services.

• ATMs supporting international cards are available in both arrivals and departures areas.
• Currency exchange desks operate within the departure and arrival concourses.
• Contactless cards and mobile payment methods are accepted by nearly all merchants, transport providers, and taxis.

A broad range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets are spread across the public and airside zones.

• Dining options range from local Nordic cuisine to international quick-service outlets.
• Select cafes operate on extended schedules to serve early morning and late night arrivals.
• Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are standard across most food outlets.

Airline lounges and pay-per-use lounges are available in both Schengen and non-Schengen zones.

• Finnair operates dedicated lounges for eligible premium passengers and airline alliance status holders.
• Independent lounges offer entry via pay-per-use passes or membership programmes.
• Facilities generally include quiet workspaces, complimentary food and drinks, and shower amenities.

On-site accommodation options are accessible directly from the main terminal structure.

• Connected airport hotels can be reached on foot via covered walkways.
• Sleeping pods and short-stay rest facilities operate inside the security area for transit passengers.
• Additional airport hotels operate nearby and are accessible via local bus or train.

Baggage facilities include self-service storage lockers and lost property assistance.

• Automated luggage lockers are available inside the terminal for short- and long-term storage.
• Luggage wrapping and protection services are located in the departure hall.
• Enquiries regarding missing checked baggage should be handled directly at the airline ground handler's desk.

The terminal is equipped with dedicated amenities for families travelling with children.

• Children's play areas are situated near designated gate zones.
• Baby care facilities equipped with changing tables and private feeding areas are located near restrooms.
• Complimentary pushchairs are available airside for passenger use within the gates.

• Automated luggage lockers
• Pharmacy and basic medical products
• Quiet rest spaces
• Duty-free and retail stores
• Pet relief area
• Accessible toilet facilities

Local emergency number: 112

• Dial 112 for immediate medical, police, or fire assistance anywhere in Finland.
• Terminal security officers and first-aid support can be summoned via any airport staff member.
• For lost passports, contact your national embassy in Helsinki and file a report with the local police.

• Check your passport validity and any visa, ETA or entry declaration required.
• Confirm your departure terminal on your boarding pass the day before.
• Activate a travel eSIM so you are online the moment you land.
• Download offline maps and screenshot your hotel address and booking reference.
• Tell your bank you are travelling and carry a backup payment card.
• Save the local emergency number and your embassy contact in your phone.
• Photograph your passport and store the copy somewhere you can reach offline.
• Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your destination.

Airport operations change. Always confirm terminals, fares and timetables with the official sources below before you travel.

• https://www.finavia.fi/en/airports/helsinki-airportOfficial airport source
• https://raja.fi/en/frontpageGovernment source
• https://tulli.fi/en/frontpageGovernment source
• https://www.hsl.fi/enOfficial transit source
• https://www.vr.fi/enOfficial transit source
• https://112.fi/en/frontpageGovernment source