Exploring Finland by car offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From the serene beauty of the Finnish Lakeland to the magical landscapes of Lapland, driving allows you to discover the country at your own pace. Whether you're planning a summer road trip under the midnight sun or a winter adventure through snowy forests, renting a car in Finland gives you the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about driving in Finland — from essential road rules to the most scenic routes — so you can enjoy a safe and memorable journey.
Finland is a country made for road trips. Its vast landscapes, well-maintained roads, and low traffic density make driving both safe and enjoyable. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel on your own schedule and reach destinations that public transportation might not cover.
Here’s why renting a car is the best way to explore Finland:
1. Freedom to Explore Hidden Gems
Finland is full of charming small towns, pristine national parks, and secluded lakeside cottages that are best reached by car. Renting a car allows you to take spontaneous detours and discover off-the-beaten-path locations.
2. Comfort and Convenience
Traveling by car offers comfort and flexibility, especially for families or groups. You can stop for breaks, take scenic routes, and avoid the hassle of navigating bus or train schedules.
3. Access to Seasonal Attractions
Many of Finland’s best attractions vary by season. In the summer, drive north to experience the midnight sun. In winter, a car lets you access remote areas for skiing, ice fishing, and chasing the Northern Lights.
4. Well-Maintained and Safe Roads
Finland's roads are well-kept and clearly signposted, making driving safe and stress-free. Even in winter, roads are regularly cleared of snow, and safety measures are in place to handle icy conditions.
5. Eco-Friendly Travel Options
Many car rental services in Finland offer eco-friendly vehicles, including hybrids and electric cars. This allows you to explore Finland while minimizing your carbon footprint.
Renting a car in Finland opens up countless opportunities for adventure. From the vibrant streets of Helsinki to the untouched wilderness of Lapland, every road leads to a new discovery.
Before hitting the road in Finland, it's crucial to understand the country's driving rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Finland has strict traffic laws designed to protect drivers, pedestrians, and the environment. Here’s a breakdown of the most important rules every driver should know:
1. Driver’s License Requirements
Visitors from EU/EEA countries can use their valid national driver’s license in Finland. Travelers from non-EU/EEA countries may use their valid international driver’s license or their national license if it’s in English, Finnish, or Swedish. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for added convenience. The minimum age for driving a car in Finland is 18. However, most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 20–21 years old, and some may charge an extra fee for drivers under 25. Read more about our age limits here >>
2. Speed Limits
Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
Rural areas: 80 km/h (50 mph)
Highways (Moottoritie): 100–120 km/h (62–75 mph), depending on the season
Speed limits are strictly enforced, with automatic speed cameras in place. Always check for posted speed limit signs, especially during winter when limits may be lowered due to weather conditions.
3. Zero Tolerance for Drink-Driving
Finland has strict drink-driving laws. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. For novice drivers (with less than two years of driving experience), the limit is lower. Random breath tests are common, and penalties for driving under the influence are severe, including heavy fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment.
4. Headlights Must Be On at All Times
By law, headlights must be used 24/7 throughout the year, regardless of the weather or time of day. This increases visibility, especially during dark winter months or foggy conditions.
5. Seatbelt Laws and Child Safety
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, both in the front and back seats. Children under 135 cm (4 ft 5 in) must use a child safety seat appropriate for their size and weight.
6. Mobile Phone Use While Driving
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you use a hands-free device. Distracted driving is taken seriously and can result in fines.
7. Priority and Right of Way
Vehicles coming from the right generally have the right of way at intersections unless indicated otherwise. Trams always have priority over other vehicles. Pedestrians at crosswalks and cyclists must be given the right of way.
8. Use of Winter Tires
Winter tires are mandatory from November 1 to March 31, or whenever there are wintry road conditions. Studded tires are allowed but must be removed by the first Monday after Easter unless conditions require their use.
9. Wildlife on the Roads
Be alert for moose and reindeer, especially when driving in rural or northern areas. Warning signs will indicate high-risk zones.
10. Parking Regulations
Always park in designated areas. Paid parking is common in cities, and some areas require the use of a parking disc to indicate your arrival time. Fines are issued for improper parking, and in some cases, vehicles may be towed.
Winter in Finland transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, offering travelers the chance to experience the magic of the Arctic. However, driving during the winter months requires careful preparation and an understanding of how to navigate icy and snowy conditions. If you're planning a road trip during this season, here’s what you need to know to stay safe on the roads.
Drive slowly and smoothly. Sudden braking or sharp turns can cause skidding. Accelerate and decelerate gently. Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead, as stopping distances increase on icy roads. Use engine braking on slippery roads by easing off the accelerator and downshifting instead of braking suddenly. Be cautious on bridges and overpasses, as they can freeze faster than regular roads.
In winter, Finland experiences very short days, especially in the north. In Lapland, daylight can last only a few hours, and that's why your car’s headlights are essential to stay on, as required by law. Use fog lights when visibility is poor and be aware of black ice. Black ice is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can form on roads, especially in shaded areas, bridges, and intersections. Pay attention to road signs warning about slippery conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.
If your car starts to skid, don’t panic. Gently steer in the direction you want the car to go. Avoid sudden braking or overcorrecting with the steering wheel. Sudden moves can make you lose total control of the car.
Driving in Finland is a smooth and enjoyable experience, thanks to its well-maintained and organized road network. Understanding the different types of roads and becoming familiar with Finnish traffic signs is essential for a safe and comfortable journey, especially for first-time visitors.
Finland’s road system is divided into several categories that cater to different types of travel. Major cities and regions are connected by wide, high-speed motorways (Moottoritie), which are marked with green signs. These roads are designed for efficient long-distance travel and have speed limits ranging from 100 to 120 km/h, depending on the season. On these roads, slower vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists are prohibited to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.
Beyond the motorways, the country has main roads (Valtatie), which serve as primary routes linking cities and major towns. These roads are usually well-maintained, with speed limits between 80 and 100 km/h, offering a comfortable drive through both urban and rural areas. Regional roads (Seututie) connect smaller towns and villages, providing access to more remote areas of the country. These roads often pass through scenic landscapes, with varying speed limits that typically range from 60 to 80 km/h. For those venturing even deeper into Finland's countryside, local roads (Yhdystie) and private forest roads are narrower and less frequently maintained. While these roads offer a more intimate look at Finland’s natural beauty, they can also present challenges, especially in winter, when snow and ice are common.
Navigating Finnish roads is made easier by clear and internationally recognizable traffic signs. Speed limit signs are straightforward, with black numbers on a white background encircled in red. Temporary speed limits, often due to roadworks or adverse weather conditions, are highlighted with a yellow background to draw attention. Finland also follows the European standard for priority roads, using a yellow diamond with a white border to indicate roads where drivers have the right of way.
Roundabouts are common, especially in urban areas, and they are marked with blue circular signs featuring white arrows. Drivers approaching a roundabout must yield to traffic already circulating within it. At intersections without clear signage, the general rule is to give priority to traffic coming from the right. However, trams always have the right of way, and drivers must also yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and to cyclists when they cross the road.
Another unique aspect of driving in Finland is the prevalence of wildlife crossing signs. In rural and northern areas, yellow triangular signs featuring images of moose or reindeer warn drivers to remain vigilant. Collisions with large animals can be dangerous, so it’s important to stay alert when these signs appear, and keep watch at the edges of the road especially if you're driving while dark.
Parking regulations are clearly marked with blue "P" signs, and in some zones, a parking disc must be used to indicate your arrival time. Areas where parking is prohibited are indicated by signs featuring a red circle with a blue background and a diagonal red line.
Whether you're cruising along the highways or winding through the forests on smaller country roads, Finland’s road network is designed for safe and enjoyable travel. Familiarizing yourself with the types of roads and traffic signs will ensure a smooth driving experience as you explore everything from bustling cities to tranquil natural landscapes.
One of the greatest advantages of driving in Finland is the ability to explore the country’s breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace. From pristine lakes and dense forests to coastal archipelagos and Arctic wilderness, Finland offers some of the most scenic drives in Europe. Here are some must-visit destinations and iconic routes to experience on your Finnish road trip.
1. Lapland – The Arctic Wonderland
Best for: Northern Lights, Arctic landscapes, and winter adventures
Driving to Finnish Lapland offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This remote northern region is a land of snowy forests, reindeer, and magical Arctic scenery.
Highlights:
Rovaniemi: The official hometown of Santa Claus and the gateway to Lapland.
Levi and Ylläs Ski Resorts: Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): Best viewed from late August to April.
Saariselkä: Ideal for snowshoeing, ice fishing, and Northern Lights safaris.
2. The Finnish Lakeland – A Haven of Tranquility
Best for: Lakeside retreats, nature, and relaxation
The Finnish Lakeland is Europe's largest lake district, with over 188,000 lakes, offering peaceful landscapes and picturesque villages. Driving through this region allows you to soak in the tranquility and beauty of Finland’s natural surroundings.
Highlights:
Lake Saimaa: Finland’s largest lake, perfect for boat cruises and nature walks.
Savonlinna: Home to the medieval Olavinlinna Castle and the famous opera festival.
Punkaharju Ridge Road: A stunning scenic drive surrounded by water and forest.
3. The Archipelago Trail – A Coastal Adventure
Best for: Island hopping, seaside villages, and maritime culture
The Archipelago Trail (Saariston Rengastie) is one of Finland’s most iconic road trip routes. It weaves through hundreds of islands and charming coastal villages in southwest Finland.
Highlights:
Turku: Finland’s oldest city and the starting point for the trail.
Nauvo and Korppoo Islands: Picturesque islands known for their peaceful harbors and local markets.
Ferry Rides: Short and frequent ferry crossings between islands (mostly free of charge).
4. Route 5 – From Helsinki to Kuopio
Best for: City-to-countryside transition and local culture
Route 5 (Valtatie 5) takes you from the bustling capital of Helsinki to the heart of the Lakeland in Kuopio. This drive offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes.
Highlights:
Porvoo: A charming medieval town with cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses.
Lahti: Known for its winter sports and lakeside beauty.
Kuopio: Famous for its Puijo Tower and traditional Finnish cuisine, especially the Kalakukko fish pastry.
5. The King's Road – A Journey Through History
Best for: Cultural heritage and medieval sites
The King's Road (Kuninkaantie) is a historic route that once connected the capitals of the Nordic countries. It runs along Finland’s southern coast, passing through charming towns and medieval sites.
Highlights:
Helsinki: The vibrant capital, full of museums, parks, and architecture.
Porvoo: Finland’s second-oldest city, with its old town and riverside warehouses.
Turku: Known for Turku Castle and the archipelago gateway.
6. The Arctic Ocean Road – Extreme Northern Adventure
Best for: Remote wilderness and bucket-list journeys
For the truly adventurous, continue driving north beyond Lapland to reach Norway! Please let us know before-hand, if you're planning to cross borders with your rental car.