Finland combines pristine wilderness with modern Nordic design. From the Northern Lights in Lapland to vibrant Helsinki, experience midnight sun, thousands of lakes, and the world's happiest people.
Finland is one of the safest countries in the world, consistently ranking in the top 5 globally for safety and stability. Crime rates are very low, infrastructure is excellent, and Finns are honest and trustworthy. The main hazards are natural - extreme winter cold, wildlife on roads, and frozen ice conditions rather than human threats.
Current safety advisory
Low
Finland is generally safe for all travelers. Exercise normal caution. Note that all land border crossings with Russia are closed indefinitely. Winter conditions in Lapland require proper preparation.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Finland is a generally safe destination. Standard precautions apply. Russian border closed to tourist traffic.
Green - Safe
No specific security concerns. Normal travel precautions. Winter weather preparedness important.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Watch for pickpockets at Helsinki Central Station and Esplanade Park
All land border crossings with Russia are closed indefinitely
Be prepared for extreme winter weather in northern regions
Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country
Register your trip with your home country's embassy before travelling to remote Lapland
In winter, dress in thermal layers and cover all exposed skin to avoid frostbite; temperatures can drop to -30 C in the north
Do not attempt to cross frozen lakes or sea ice without local advice; conditions can be deceptive
Reindeer and elk on roads are a serious hazard - drive slowly at dawn and dusk, especially in Lapland
Finnish pharmacies (Apteekki) are reliable for minor ailments; EU EHIC or travel insurance covers public healthcare
Common scams are rare, but beware of overpriced taxi services at Helsinki Airport - use the Finnair City Bus or train instead
Respect Everyman's Right but do not light open fires during dry summer periods when fire bans are in effect
Alcohol is only sold in licensed restaurants and Alko stores; public drinking is illegal in most areas
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Airport Taxi Overcharging
Unlicensed taxis near Helsinki Airport may charge inflated flat rates. The official metered rate is €40-45 to city center.
How to avoid: Use the official taxi rank with licensed taxis or book Bolt/Uber app. The Ring Rail train at €4.60 is the best value.
Pickpocketing at Tourist Sites
Helsinki Market Square and Central Station have occasional pickpocket activity targeting tourists, especially during summer crowds.
How to avoid: Use a money belt or anti-theft bag at crowded market areas and tourist sites. Keep phone in a front pocket.
Overpriced Tourist Restaurants
Some restaurants near Senate Square and Market Square charge significantly above normal prices targeting tourists unfamiliar with Finnish prices.
How to avoid: Check Google reviews for price information. Walk one street away from tourist hotspots for better value. Use lounas lunch specials.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No required vaccinations for Finland. Routine vaccines up to date recommended. Consider tick-borne encephalitis vaccine if extensive outdoor activities in southern Finland (May-October).
- Water
- Safe to drink everywhere. Finland has some of world's cleanest tap water. Free to drink in restaurants.
- Food
- Winter: risk of frostbite and hypothermia if improperly dressed. Summer: mosquitoes in Lapland (bring repellent). Tick-borne diseases in southern areas. Seasonal Affective Disorder from limited winter daylight.
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Finland is exceptionally safe for solo travelers of all genders. Public transport is reliable until midnight, Finns are honest, and the country has a strong rule of law. The main consideration is the language barrier in rural areas, though English is widely spoken everywhere. Solo hiking in national parks requires basic preparation and informing someone of your route.
Female travellers
Finland consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world for women and is a global leader in gender equality. Solo female travelers can move confidently throughout the country day and night. Standard urban precautions apply late at night in nightlife areas. Finnish culture strongly disapproves of harassment.
Families
Finland is extremely family-friendly with excellent infrastructure, safe environments, and welcoming attitudes toward children. Finnish culture values children highly. Facilities like baby changing rooms, high chairs, and stroller accessibility are excellent throughout the country.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Finland is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017. Helsinki Pride (June) is one of Scandinavia's largest Pride events. LGBTQ+ couples face no legal restrictions and general social acceptance is high, particularly in cities.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 112
- Medical
- 112
- Embassy
- Tourist Police