How much does a trip to Finland cost? - 2026 Guide

How much does it cost to go to Finland?

Finland is known for being a pricey destination within Europe. According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily budget for a typical visitor is approximately $211 (€181), depending on how you like to travel. Budget travelers can keep daily expenses around $88 per person, while mid-range trips typically match the average daily spend. Luxury travel costs frequently go over $469 per day.

Your biggest expenses will be:

• Accommodation
• Dining
• Sightseeing fees

Seasonality heavily influences these costs. Prices often jump during peak winter months for activities like skiing or Northern Lights tours. Travelers should also account for additional expenses such as travel insurance and potential visa fees. Booking early is the best way to handle these costs.

Finland travel cost breakdown

What are the flight prices to Finland?

Flights will likely be one of your biggest costs when planning a trip to Finland. Round-trip economy tickets generally cost between $600 (€515) and $1,500 (€1,290). This price range depends on the departure region and booking timing. I personally recommend tracking prices for a few weeks, as deals do pop up unexpectedly. While international flights drive the average up to $600–$1,500, travelers flying from within Europe can often find fares significantly below this range, especially if booking in advance. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves as the central hub for most arrivals, though travelers heading north to Rovaniemi will need to pay extra for connecting domestic flights.

When you fly matters just as much as where you fly from. Peak periods, such as the winter holiday season and summer months, result in higher costs. Off-season travel during shoulder months like April or October is a great time to snag cheaper tickets and reduce overall expenses.

What are the accommodation costs in Finland?

Securing a place to stay represents a significant chunk of your budget in Finland, with average hotel rates reported by Statistics Finland hovering around $170 (€145) per night. Travelers can choose from a wide range of options, ranging from economical hostels to high-end luxury suites. Costs fluctuate based on the specific region, seasonality, and desired comfort level. Luxury stays are pricier but offer premium amenities and unique experiences.

How much do hotels and hostels cost in Helsinki?

Helsinki is generally more expensive than the rest of the country. Standard double rooms in the city center often exceed $175 (€150) per night. If you're on a budget, hostels provide cost-effective options starting around $29 (€25) to lower daily expenses. You'll pay more to stay right next to the main sights.

What is the price of staying in a glass igloo in Lapland?

Glass igloo stays in Lapland offer a premium bucket-list experience focused on viewing the Northern Lights. But are they worth it? Speaking from experience, it is a once-in-a-lifetime memory that justifies the splurge. Prices for these unique units typically range from $465 (€400) to over $1,050 (€900) per night, making this a true splurge experience. High demand during the winter season in Rovaniemi drives these rates to their peak.

Costs increase further when packages include half-board meals or private saunas. Even though standard hotel rates are considerably lower, if you're seeking this specific experience, expect to spend a big chunk of your budget to cover the high nightly fees.

How much does local transportation cost?

Travelers typically spend an average of $43 (€37) per day on transportation. While local city transport is cheap, this budget accounts for inter-city train or bus tickets needed to explore different regions. Locals and tourists alike praise the system for being punctual and clean.

Daily expenses depend on the frequency of inter-city journeys and the distance traveled. Purchasing individual bus tickets or tram fares increases costs, but travel cards often reduce overall spending. Trains are the best way to hop between major towns and regions.

What are the prices for public transport and car rentals?

Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore remote regions. A standard car rental typically costs approximately $195 (€170) for a six-day period. Just keep in mind that driving comes with extra costs—high fuel prices and city parking fees can quickly eat into your budget.

Public transport is cheaper for city-based itineraries. The Helsinki Card is a great way to save on local transportation expenses. This pass costs $82 (€71) for a three-day duration and includes unlimited travel within the city. It also grants access to various museums, giving you more bang for your buck compared to purchasing individual tickets for every trip.

How much does the Santa Claus Express train cost?

The Santa Claus Express is a famous night train connecting Helsinki to Rovaniemi in Lapland. One-way tickets for a standard seat typically start at approximately $93 (€80). Private sleeping cabins offer greater comfort but increase costs, with prices ranging from $116 (€100) to over $350 (€300) per compartment.

This option is often cheaper than flying since it means you don't need one night of hotel accommodation. I find the rhythm of the rails to be much more relaxing than the hassle of airport security. Prices fluctuate based on the season, making advance booking necessary to secure the best rates.

What are the food and dining expenses in Finland?

Expect to spend around $70 (€60) per person daily on food expenses. Be prepared for sticker shock when eating out; dining costs in Finland are notably higher than in many other European destinations. Breakfast costs between $10 and $15 at independent cafes, but many hotels include this meal in the nightly rate. Lunch is a great way to save money, as most restaurants serve a "lounas" buffet or special for approximately $11 to $15. Trust me, filling up at lunch is the smartest financial move you can make in Finland.

Dinner will be your most expensive meal, with main courses often ranging from $25 to over $50. Alcohol prices can really drive up your bill due to steep government taxes; a standard beer or glass of wine in a restaurant typically costs between $8 and $12. To save money, stick to lunch specials and purchasing snacks from local supermarkets.

How much do tours and activities cost?

For basic sightseeing fees and entrance tickets, budget about $31 (€27) a day. But if you want to do specialized activities, it significantly impacts the total budget. Organized tours and exclusive packages frequently drive these daily expenses up to $438. Independent exploration of landmarks like the Suomenlinna Fortress or the Arktikum Museum helps keep costs down.

The Helsinki Card is a smart way to save by covering admission to multiple sites. On the other hand, bucket-list experiences in Lapland, such as guided trips near Santa Claus Village, command premium prices. Budget carefully so you can afford both cultural visits and adventurous excursions.

What are the prices for husky sledding and reindeer safaris?

If you're dreaming of leading a dog team through the snow, be prepared to pay a premium for husky sledding. While a standard 2-hour safari in Rovaniemi typically costs between $140 (€120) and $220 (€190) per adult, shorter rides of 2 kilometers are available for approximately $46 (€40) to $87 (€75). If you're looking for a full day out, adventure tours often exceed $405 (€350) and frequently include wilderness lunches.

For a slightly more affordable cultural experience, consider a reindeer safari. Short sleigh rides of 1 kilometer generally cost around $34 (€29) to $40 (€35). Longer organized tours lasting 2 to 3 hours range from $87 (€75) to $162 (€140) per person. These rides can take a big bite out of your budget for visitors in Northern Finland.

How much do Northern Lights tours cost?

Many visitors flock to Lapland specifically for the Northern Lights tours during winter. Basic organized tours using large buses typically cost between $81 (€70) and $116 (€100) per person. These options help keep costs lower while providing transport to dark viewing spots away from city lights. Small group excursions in minivans offer a more flexible experience, with prices generally ranging from $140 (€120) to $198 (€170).

Specialized photography expeditions cost more. These trips often cost between $175 (€150) and $290 (€250) and include professional instruction along with thermal suits. Adventure packages combining the Aurora Borealis chase with snowmobiling frequently exceed $232 (€200). You can view the lights for free in Rovaniemi, but expert guides monitor weather patterns to find clear skies, giving you a better chance of seeing them. Having spent hours shivering in the dark for nothing, I can tell you that a guide’s knowledge is often worth the extra cost.

How does an eSIM save money on mobile data in Finland?

Modern eSIM cards offer cheaper mobile data than international roaming. Home carriers often charge high daily fees for internet access abroad, which can blow up your budget. A smart solution is to purchase a dedicated eSIM offer for Finland that provides seamless connectivity immediately upon landing. Since it's all digital, you won't have to fiddle with tiny plastic SIM cards or hunt for a kiosk at the airport. You just land and connect.

Prepaid data packages are substantially cheaper than standard roaming rates and prevent unexpected charges. Reliable phone data is essential for navigation and communication, so travelers should activate their plan before departure to ensure instant access.

How much money do you need for a one-week trip to Finland?

A one-week trip usually costs around $2,948 (€2,540) for a couple. This figure translates to an average of $211 per person in daily expenses. This includes:

• Mid-range accommodation
• Dining expenses
• Local transportation
• Standard sightseeing fees

Solo travelers often face a slightly higher per-person rate due to single occupancy charges, with a 7-day trip costing between $1,500 (€1,290) and $1,800 (€1,550).

Budget options, such as staying in hostels and minimizing restaurant meals, can reduce the weekly expense to under $1,000 per person. On the other hand, luxury itineraries featuring glass igloos and exclusive safaris frequently exceed $5,000 for a week. Start saving early so you can enjoy the trip without worry.

How can you save money on your Finnish vacation?

When you go is the biggest factor in how much you'll spend in Finland. Key ways to save include:

• Visit during off-season: Traveling in shoulder months like October or April means much cheaper prices for flights and hotels.
• Use the Helsinki Card: This card gives you unlimited access to public transport and free entry to over 25 museums.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Avoiding alcohol in restaurants lowers daily expenses due to high taxes.
• Eat "lounas" lunch buffets: These offer substantial meals at a lower cost compared to expensive dinner menus.
• Purchase travel insurance: This protects the budget against unexpected medical costs.

Plan ahead, prioritize your must-dos, and you’ll find that seeing the Northern Lights doesn't have to mean seeing red in your bank account.

Sources

• https://www.budgetyourtrip.com/finland
• https://stat.fi/en/statistics/matk
• https://www.visitrovaniemi.fi/see-do/activities/husky-sled-rides-farm-visits/