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Official name: Republic of Finland
Capital city: Helsinki
Official language: Finnish, Swedish
Population: Around 5.6 million
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time zone: GMT+2
Driving side: Right
Climate: Cold temperate climate with long, harsh winters and short, mild summers
Finland is known as the land of a thousand lakes and endless forests, offering pristine nature, vibrant Nordic culture, and modern cities with a high standard of living. Helsinki is the cosmopolitan heart, while Lapland in the far north is famed for its reindeer, Northern Lights, and winter sports. The Finns balance modern design and technology with a deep-rooted love for quiet landscapes, saunas, and seasonal traditions.
Finland shares borders with Sweden, Norway, and Russia, with its southern coastline opening to the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland. Its landscape is dominated by forests, lakes, and fens, making it one of Europe’s most water-rich countries. The terrain is generally low and flat, with the highest point being Halti at 1,324 metres in the far north. Winters are long and dark, while summers bring almost continuous daylight in the north.
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is the main international hub, with regular connections across Europe, Asia, and North America. Trains are efficient and modern, linking Helsinki with major towns, while buses reach rural areas. Driving is straightforward, though winter requires snow tyres and caution on icy roads. Ferries connect Finland to Sweden, Estonia, and Germany, and domestic flights serve Lapland and remote regions.
As an EU and Schengen member, Finland allows UK citizens and other eligible nationals visa-free entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Longer stays for study or employment require permits. The British Embassy is located in Helsinki, and most countries maintain diplomatic representation there.
Finland uses the euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted, including contactless payments, and ATMs are readily available in towns and cities. Finland is a relatively expensive destination, but accommodation, food, and services are generally of a high standard.
Healthcare in Finland is excellent, with high-quality hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Emergency care is widely available, and English is spoken by most medical staff. EU travellers can use an EHIC/GHIC card for necessary treatment, but full travel insurance is recommended to cover private care or repatriation. Tap water is safe to drink nationwide, and pharmacies are easily accessible.