Finland

Finland is one of the most beautiful and fantastic countries of Northern Europe. However, it remains one of the unknown corners of Europe. The magnificent natural landscapes of the country, are without a doubt the country’s main pride. In Finland, you can discover the Baltic seashore, picturesque islands, thousands of lakes (more than 187 888!) and rivers, unique landscapes, and even  -if you’re lucky- northern lights.

SAFETY INDEX

See cities in this country

Around 5 million foreigners visit the country annually. It’s equal to the country’s population. This tourist flow attracts pickpockets (particularly in summer) and other types of scammers, especially in the capital. Finland has a very low incidents level of serious crimes. SafeAround has gathered information from numerous resources make sure you have a smooth trip in Finland and be aware of all potential dangers. The main tips during your visit to the country are:
  • Do not leave your belongings unattended, particularly in museums, transport hubs, and other overcrowded places.
  • Carry as little cash as you need for a day. Leave other valuables in the secured place, including passport.
  • Be cautious in pubs, bars, and clubs. Be aware of intoxicated men on the streets as 85% of all homicides in Finland occur in the context of drinking quarrels.
  • The only potentially dangerous areas in the whole Finland is the proximity of the Central Train Station in Helsinki and the Kaisaniemi Park, which is located in the capital too.

Is Finland a Safe or Dangerous Country?

Travelling in Finland is generally safe, it’s highly ranked on the list of the safest countries: it’s  in top 5 of the safest countries on earth. Visitors of the country never faced any serious threats during their stay in the country, however, pickpocketing, petty thefts, bag snatching and ATM scams do occur frequently. Places that are in favour of Helsinki’s pickpockets are Central Railway Station, around Kauppatori and Esplanadi. The murder rate is very low, for a whole last year only 70 murders did occur in Finland. Sexual assaults do occur, but their numbers are significantly lower than are reported anywhere else in Europe. Organized crime The primary activity of criminal groups is smuggling, prostitution, and drugs. Groups operating in the former Soviet Union are present in Finland. Their practices normally do not influence tourists, and violence typically occurs within the gangs. Other areas of concern Thieves may generously offer to help with a luggage, in order to receive an opportunity to steal your belongings. Be very cautious typing your pin code in the restaurant or behind the ATM, as thieves may stay behind you watching how you type the secret code.

Warnings & Dangers

Mid Priority-96 OVERALL RISK : LOW

Helsinki is one of the safest city in Europe with a rating of 88.8, it is ranked 9th out of 113 on the ranking of the safest and most dangerous cities.

Mid Priority-96 PICKPOCKETS RISK : LOW

More than 5 million tourists come to Finland yearly. Around 3.5 million of them stay in Helsinki. Such a huge flow of tourists makes pickpocketing common. Simple precautions will almost eliminate chances of being robbed.

Mid Priority-96 MUGGING RISK : LOW

Finland is a place, where you are not likely to be kidnapped or mugged. Anyway, we recommend you not to accept drinks from strangers, although drink-spiking is not common at all.

Mid Priority-96 SCAMS RISK : LOW

There are no well-known scams in Finland.

Mid Priority-96 TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Pickpockets operate in a public transport mainly in Helsinki. During winter the road conditions can become more dangerous. Snow tires should be necessarily used.

Mid Priority-96 NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

There can be some occasional natural hazards (geological, meteorological) in Mexico, and there is some risk of drowning on the Pacific coast beaches.

Mid Priority-96 TERRORISM RISK : LOW

Though the threat from terrorism is low in Finland. We recommend to be vigilant of suspicious activity and abandoned subjects all the time. Terrorism is a threat all over the world.

Mid Priority-96 WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

There is no threat for female visitors in Finland. We advise to use common sense and avoid public drunkenness places if you are alone, as well as other silliness.

Carte

WHAT TO DO?

Among main attractions to visit for Finland’s newcomers are Helsinki, where sightseers will find the coolest museums, galleries, authentic restaurants and interesting shopping experience. More about Helsinki’s safety tips you can find out here. Northeast of Helsinki the ancient town called Provoo can be found. In Northeastern direction lays the medieval castle of Hameenlinna. If you go to the west, you’ll find a majestic former capital of Finland – Turku. Of course, your primary must-see spot after Helsinki should be a trip to the wilds of magical Lapland.

Useful Information

Visas are not usually required for stays under 90 days. If you planning to stay longer you have to obtain a visa. Normally Finland government requires the proof of payment ability in order to be sure that you possess sufficient amount to cover your trip Make sure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity from your planned date of return.
SafeAround advises using only trustworthy establishments like banks and currency exchange kiosks in the airport or in the big shopping centers. The official currency of Finland is Euro.
During summer the average temperature in Finland is between 15-20°C. The coldest month in Finland is February, when the temperature fluctuates between -25 to -1°C. In the northeast part of the country the air temperature can drop down to 50°C.
The main airport in Finland is Helsinki Airport in Vantaa. Official website of the busiest airport in Helsinki – https://www.finavia.fi/en/helsinki-airport/timetable-search/departures/ If you’re looking for cheap flight deals, you can find some on JetRadar.
As in any country, we advise travelers to get a travel insurance that covers not only medical problems but also theft and loss of personal items. Learn more on our travel insurance page