Transportation in Helsinki

Helsinki offers an excellent public transportation system that makes getting around the city easy and efficient. The integrated HSL (Helsinki Regional Transport) system provides comprehensive coverage with metro, trams, buses, and commuter trains.

Public Transportation System

HSL (Helsinki Regional Transport)

The integrated public transport system covers Helsinki and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Metro

• Lines: M1 (Matinkylä - Vuosaari) and M2 (Tapiola - Mellunmäki)
• Frequency: Every 4-6 minutes during peak hours
• Operating hours: 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM (extended on weekends)
• Coverage: Connects key areas including city center, Espoo, and Vantaa

Trams

• Network: Extensive tram network in central Helsinki
• Lines: 10 tram lines covering the city center
• Frequency: Every 5-10 minutes
• Operating hours: 5:30 AM - 1:30 AM
• Popular routes:
  • Line 3: Central Railway Station - Kallio
  • Line 6: Central Railway Station - Hietalahti
  • Line 9: Central Railway Station - Arabia

Buses

• Coverage: Comprehensive network throughout the region
• Types: Local buses, express buses, night buses
• Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes depending on route
• Night buses: Limited service after midnight
• Regional buses: Connect to neighboring cities

Commuter Trains

• Lines: Multiple lines connecting Helsinki to suburbs
• Frequency: Every 10-30 minutes
• Coverage: Espoo, Vantaa, Kirkkonummi, Kerava, etc.
• Airport connection: Direct train to Helsinki Airport

Ticketing and Fares

HSL Card

• Types: Personal card, anonymous card, mobile app
• Benefits: Integrated ticketing for all transport
• Loading: Add value or buy passes
• Validation: Tap when boarding

Ticket Types

• Single ticket: €2.80 (valid for 80 minutes)
• Day ticket: €8.00 (24 hours)
• Weekly ticket: €32.00 (7 days)
• Monthly ticket: €99.70 (30 days)
• Annual ticket: €1,080.00 (12 months)

Zones

• Zone A: Central Helsinki
• Zone B: Inner suburbs
• Zone C: Outer suburbs
• Zone D: Regional areas

Discounts

• Students: 50% discount with student card
• Seniors: Reduced fares for 65+
• Children: Free under 7, reduced 7-16
• Unemployed: Special rates available

Getting Around

From Helsinki Airport

• Train: Direct connection to city center (30 minutes)
• Bus: Route 600 to city center (45 minutes)
• Taxi: 30-45 minutes, €40-60
• Rental car: Available at airport

Within City Center

• Walking: Compact center, very walkable
• Trams: Best option for longer distances
• Metro: Quick connections to key areas
• Buses: Fill gaps in tram/metro network

To Suburbs

• Metro: Espoo and eastern Vantaa
• Commuter trains: All major suburbs
• Buses: Local connections
• Regional buses: Longer distances

Cycling in Helsinki

Bike Infrastructure

• Bike lanes: Extensive network throughout city
• Separated paths: Many dedicated cycling routes
• Bike parking: Secure facilities at transport hubs
• Bike sharing: City bikes available (seasonal)

City Bike System

• Season: April to October
• Stations: 150+ locations
• Pricing: €35/year or €5/day
• Usage: 30-minute trips included
• App: HSL app for registration

Popular Cycling Routes

• Baana: Former railway converted to bike path
• Seaside routes: Beautiful coastal paths
• Central routes: Dedicated lanes through city
• Recreational paths: Forest and park routes

Walking

Pedestrian-Friendly City

• Sidewalks: Well-maintained throughout
• Crossings: Safe, well-marked
• Pedestrian zones: Car-free areas in center
• Winter maintenance: Heated sidewalks in some areas

Popular Walking Areas

• Esplanadi: Beautiful park and shopping street
• Market Square: Historic center by the sea
• Design District: Boutique shops and cafes
• Seaside promenades: Beautiful coastal walks

Driving and Parking

Driving in Helsinki

• Traffic: Generally smooth, some congestion
• Parking: Limited and expensive in center
• Speed limits: 30-50 km/h in city
• Winter driving: Snow and ice conditions

Parking Options

• Street parking: Metered parking zones
• Parking garages: Multi-story facilities
• Shopping centers: Free parking for customers
• Residential parking: Permit zones

Parking Costs

• Street parking: €2-4/hour
• Garages: €3-6/hour
• Residential permits: €50-100/year
• Shopping centers: Often free with purchase

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Traditional Taxis

• Availability: Easy to find in city center
• Booking: Phone, app, or street hail
• Pricing: Metered, €10-15 for short trips
• Airport: €40-60 to city center

Ride-Sharing

• Uber: Available in Helsinki
• Bolt: Popular alternative
• Pricing: Similar to traditional taxis
• Convenience: App-based booking

Accessibility

Public Transport

• Wheelchair access: All metro stations, most trams/buses
• Audio announcements: Available on all transport
• Visual displays: Route information
• Assistance: Available at major stations

Special Services

• Door-to-door service: Available for disabled
• Companion tickets: Reduced fares for helpers
• Accessible vehicles: Specialized transport options

Tips for Visitors

Getting Started

1. Download HSL app: Essential for planning
2. Get HSL card: Most convenient option
3. Plan routes: Use journey planner
4. Check schedules: Especially evenings/weekends
5. Have backup: Know alternative routes

Cost-Saving Tips

• Buy passes: Cheaper than single tickets
• Use student discounts: If eligible
• Walk short distances: Free and healthy
• Bike in summer: City bikes are affordable
• Group tickets: Available for families

Cultural Notes

• Punctuality: Transport runs on time
• Quiet: Finns value quiet on transport
• Priority seating: Respect for elderly/pregnant
• No eating: Avoid eating on transport
• Validate tickets: Always tap your card

Helsinki's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to explore the city without a car. The integrated HSL system provides reliable, frequent service throughout the metropolitan area.