Helsinki Trip Cost Calculator

Your Helsinki Budget at a Glance

Helsinki is expensive but more manageable than other Nordic capitals. The lunch buffet tradition, free attractions like Suomenlinna, and excellent public transport make it accessible. Budget travelers can manage on $110-170 per day, mid-range travelers should expect $200-350 per day, and luxury seekers will spend $500+ per day.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation is the biggest expense. Alcohol is expensive but cheaper than Norway/Sweden. The good news: lunch buffets offer incredible value, many attractions are free, and public transport is affordable.

Budget Traveler Tips

Maximize your euros by:

• Eating lunch buffets (‘Lounas’) - Finnish workday tradition
• Visiting free Suomenlinna fortress
• Using HSL day tickets (includes Suomenlinna ferry)
• Experiencing authentic public saunas
• Drinking world-class tap water (it’s free and pure)

Worth the Splurge

Even budget travelers should consider:

• Public sauna experience (Löyly or Allas Sea Pool)
• Helsinki Card if hitting multiple museums
• One nice dinner of modern Finnish cuisine

Best Time to Visit for Value

May and September offer the best balance of weather and prices. November-February is cheapest but cold and dark.

Avoid these expensive periods:

• Summer (June-August) - peak season, long days
• Christmas Markets (December)
• Flow Festival (August)

Getting There & Around

From Helsinki Airport

The airport is 20km north:

• Train: €5.50, 30 min to Central Station (I/P trains)
• Finnair City Bus: €7.20, 30 min to Railway Station
• Taxi: €45-50 fixed price to center

Getting Around

Helsinki is compact and walkable:

• Tram: Excellent network, line 2 is scenic
• Metro: Limited but useful for Kallio and east
• Walking: City center easily walkable
• Bikes: City bikes €5/day with Helsinki Card