A long layover in Helsinki is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Helsinki Malmi Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at HEM:
First, verify that you can enter Finland — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Local Bus & Commuter Train takes about 70 minutes into Helsinki, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Helsinki from the Airport
From HEM, the Local Bus & Commuter Train gets you to Helsinki in around 70 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 90 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus & Commuter Train offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near HEM
Dedicated luggage storage at HEM may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Helsinki’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Helsinki might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Helsinki, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Helsinki
If you head into Helsinki, here are two things worth checking out:
Helsinki Cathedral is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Market Square (Kauppatori) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HEM, check out Malmi Airport Terminal Building or Aircraft Spotting at Malmi Airport to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Helsinki
If you make it into town, Old Market Hall (Vanha Kauppahalli) is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurant Savotta.
Inside HEM
If you’re staying in the terminal, Cafe Malmi (Coffee & Pastries) is your main option. Cafe Malmi (Lunch & Savories) works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HEM should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Finland and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at HEM.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Helsinki count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HEM. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.