Helsinki Vantaa Airport (HEL) is located in the city of Vantaa, 17km north of Helsinki. It is the main international gateway to Finland and the country's busiest airport with over 17 million passengers per year. Consistently rated as one of the best airports in Europe, HEL offers connections to hundreds of destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Many travelers choose HEL as their connection airport when flying to other destinations due to its amazing amenities.
The most popular time to visit Helsinki is in the summer (June and July) due to its warm weather and longer days. To beat the rush of tourists and get the best deal, consider flying to HEL during the shoulder season (April to May or August to September) instead. The winter months are even cheaper, but you'll have to brave the cold. To find the best deals on flights to Helsinki Vantaa Airport, try using Skyscanner's cheapest month search! We'll show you the best time to fly to Helsinki, and you can even set up a price alert so you never miss a great deal.
Getting to Helsinki Vantaa Airport
Helsinki Vantaa Airport is the busiest airport in Finland, offering flights to and from a wide variety of international destinations. It is a hub for CityJet, Finnair, Jet Time, Norwegian Air, and TUIfly Nordic, as well as a focus city for Thomas Cook Airlines Scandinavia. Needless to say, it's easy to find a cheap flight to Helsinki!
Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Canada to HEL. To get there, you'll have to route through a major European city like Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG), or Frankfurt (FRA).
Canadians can visit Finland for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as your passport is valid for at least 3 months past your expected date of departure. Finland is part of the Schengen area, which means you can travel freely between Schengen countries during your 90 days. However, you'll need a visa if you plan to travel in the area for longer.
Helsinki Vantaa Airport Facilities
After arriving at Vantaa Airport, follow the signs to collect your baggage and move through Finnish customs. The Information Desk, located at the entrance of the airport between the terminals, is a great source of information about tourist attractions, hotels, car rentals, and more.
HEL is divided into two terminals. Terminal 1 handles all Schengen area flights, while Terminal 2 handles the rest. In Terminal 2, you'll find four separate lounges with showers available in the Aspire and Almost@Home Lounges, as well as a childrens' play area with changing tables. Unlimited wi-fi is free for all passengers, and there are many charging stations available throughout the airport.
What to Do in Helsinki
Helsinki is known worldwide for its active nightlife, amazing architecture and design, and beautiful waterfront. Head to Market Square on the South Harbour between 8am and 4pm for traditional market treats, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Nature lovers will enjoy Suomenlinna, a gorgeous 18th-century sea fortress and nature preserve, spread across six islands off Helsinki's coast. This UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site can be accessed by ferry and features a brewery, dockyard, tunnels, and museums. For a real treat the whole family will enjoy, head to Linnanmäki amusement park, which features more than 50 rides and roller coasters, as well as a tower offering panoramic views of the city below.
