Written by Matthias on 22/03/2023

Embarking on a Finnish Adventure: Unveiling Flight Strategies and Booking Hacks

Flight

I’ve had the privilege of exploring some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Finland, with its pristine natural beauty, vibrant culture, and thrilling outdoor adventures, has always held a special place in my heart.

1. Finding the Best Flights:

A. Airports:

• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL): Serving as the primary international gateway to Finland, this airport is conveniently located near the capital city, Helsinki.
• Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): Ideal for those looking to explore Finnish Lapland, especially during the magical winter season.
• Other notable airports include Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP) and Turku Airport (TKU).

B. Airlines:

• Finnair: As Finland’s flagship carrier, Finnair is known for its exceptional service and extensive network of routes.
• International airlines like Lufthansa, British Airways, and KLM also offer flights to Finland.

2. Flight Routes:

A. Helsinki and Beyond:

• Starting your journey in Helsinki provides the opportunity to explore the capital city’s attractions before venturing further into the country.
• Helsinki’s central location makes it a convenient hub for connecting flights to other Finnish cities, including Rovaniemi, Tampere, and Turku.

B. Rovaniemi for Lapland Adventures:

• For an immersive Lapland experience, consider booking a domestic flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi.
• Rovaniemi serves as the gateway to Santa Claus Village and offers incredible Northern Lights viewing opportunities.

3. Ticket Price Comparison:

A. Helsinki to Rovaniemi (Round Trip):

• Finnair: Prices for round-trip flights from Helsinki to Rovaniemi can vary based on the season. During off-peak times, you may find fares as low as $150, but prices can double during the peak winter season.
• Other airlines, such as Norwegian Air and SAS, may offer competitive fares for this route.

B. International Flights to Helsinki (Round Trip):

• The cost of international flights to Helsinki can vary significantly depending on your departure city, the time of year, and how far in advance you book.
• Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 for a round-trip ticket from major international hubs in Europe or North America.

4. Booking Platforms:

A. Direct Booking:

• For domestic flights within Finland, it’s often convenient to book directly through the airline’s official website, such as Finnair’s site.
• Utilize price comparison websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to uncover the best deals on international flights.

B. Travel Agencies:

• Consider consulting with travel agencies that specialize in Nordic destinations. They can provide customized packages and valuable insider tips.

C. Frequent Flyer Miles:

• If you’re a member of a frequent flyer program, explore opportunities to redeem your miles for your Finland trip.

5. Booking Tips:

A. Plan Ahead: Prices tend to be more favorable when booking several months in advance, particularly for international flights.

B. Flexible Dates: Take advantage of flexible date search options to identify the most budget-friendly travel dates.

C. Layovers: Be open to flights with layovers, as they can often be more affordable than direct flights.

D. Package Deals: Keep an eye out for package deals that bundle flights and accommodations, potentially resulting in savings.

E. Travel Insurance: Don’t overlook the importance of purchasing travel insurance to ensure peace of mind during your adventure.

Finland’s remarkable natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thrilling adventures await your exploration. By strategically planning your flights and employing these booking tips, you can transform your dream Finnish adventure into a reality. Whether you find yourself sipping hot cocoa beneath the Northern Lights or wandering the vibrant streets of Helsinki, Finland promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler.