Finland Currency Guide
Discover the enchanting allure of Finland, a pristine Nordic paradise where natural beauty and rich culture converge. From the mesmerising Northern Lights to the vibrant coastal cities, Finland offers a diverse range of unforgettable experiences. Immerse yourself in the land of a thousand lakes, vast forests, and charming wooden towns. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Finland’s enchanting landscapes and warm-hearted people are ready to welcome you with open arms.
Taking Travel Money to Finland
If you’re travelling to Finland, you’ll need to exchange your Australian dollars (AUD) for Euros (Euro). Get information on how to exchange your AUD to EUR.
Is it better to convert currency in Australia or Finland?
It’s best to exchange your currency in Australia before heading to Finland, as the Australian Dollar (AUD) is considered exotic in Europe, which often means higher fees and less favourable rates when exchanging overseas. By converting to Euros in advance, you’ll secure a better rate and avoid the inconvenience of finding an exchange that accepts AUD. With your travel funds ready, you can enjoy Finland with peace of mind, knowing your budget is maximised and ready for any adventure.
How much cash can I take to Finland?
You are free to travel with as much cash as you’d like. However, if you’re carrying an amount over €10,000, or its equivalent, in another currency, it’s important to declare it at Customs. This is a legal requirement for anyone entering or leaving the European Union.
Where to convert currency?
Crown Currency Exchange is Australia’s largest and leading foreign exchange provider. With over 20 years of experience in ensuring our customers have the exact currencies needed to get the most from their travel adventures, we offer great rates on foreign currency and exceptional customer service. You can collect your foreign currencies from over 60 stores across Australia and get your travel money on the spot, locking in a fantastic exchange rate. Our stores are located nationwide in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, Tasmania & Perth.
What should you budget per day?
Budget
A budget of €90 per day can go a long way if you do it right. Hostel dorms are a great, affordable option for accommodation, and cooking your meals instead of eating out can save you a lot of money. Public transportation is also a wallet-friendly alternative to taxis, and there are plenty of free activities to fill your days with. For those who enjoy a drink or two, remember to increase your budget by €10-15 per day.
Moderate
For a moderate budget, allocating around €180 per day can give you enough wiggle room to enjoy various activities and experiences without breaking the bank. You could opt for a private hostel room or Airbnb, dine out for some meals, sip on a few drinks, take taxis when needed and indulge in paid activities like museum hopping, skiing or guided tours. With this kind of budget, you can strike a balance between enjoying your trip to the fullest and not overspending.
Luxury
When it comes to enjoying a luxurious vacation, a daily budget of €360 or more can indulge you in all the extravagances that your heart desires. You can book a top-notch hotel, dine out for every meal, have unlimited drinks, rent a car to explore, and take part in all the activities that catch your fancy. However, this is just the starting point of luxury. With this budget, the world is yours to conquer, and you can spare no expense in making your vacation the ultimate getaway.
What is ATM access like in Finland?
Finnish banks don’t have their own ATM machines. Instead, almost every bank in the region uses the interbank network called OTTO. If you’re worried about language barriers, fear not, as most OTTO machines have an English language option.
However, be prepared for some differences compared to the ATMs you’re used to at home. Two card slots are available – a blue one for chip and pin cards and a yellow one for magnetic stripe cards. But that’s not all. Since 2017, Nosto ATM machines have also been available, with around 500 locations scattered across the country.
Is tipping customary in Finland? How much is expected?
When visiting Finland, it’s essential to understand the local tipping customs. While tipping is not as widespread as in some other countries, there are instances where it’s appreciated. Here are some guides for tipping in Finland:
Restaurants: Finnish restaurants don’t generally expect tips, but if you’re blown away by the food or service, feel free to tip 10 to 15% of the bill. Keep in mind that a service charge is often included, so any extra amount you give is considered a bonus. Tipping shows your appreciation for the exceptional dining experience.
Bars: Tips aren’t mandatory at bars, but if you’re particularly impressed with your salmiakki koskenkorva (a vodka and salty liquorice cocktail), consider rounding up the bill or leaving the bartender some change. This small gesture acknowledges their effort in preparing your drink.
Hotels: In Finnish hotels, tipping is not common, but if a staff member goes the extra mile for you, it’s polite to tip porters a small amount for carrying your bags. This demonstrates your gratitude for their assistance and attentive service.
Taxi drivers: While Finnish taxi drivers don’t expect tips, you can round up the fare and let the driver keep the change with the phrase “pitäkää loput!” This simple act shows your appreciation for their smooth and efficient transportation service.
Tour guides: Tour guides in Finland don’t typically expect tips, but if you feel inclined, offering 10% of the ticket value is generous. A tip signifies your gratitude for their knowledge, storytelling abilities, and guidance throughout the tour.
Salons: Tipping is not customary in salons and barber shops, but if you had an outstanding experience, you could offer a little extra “drink money.” Just be aware that your hairdresser might be surprised by the gesture. A tip in this scenario highlights your satisfaction with their expertise and the final result.
Spas: In Finland, tipping therapists is not obligatory, as they are highly qualified professionals who don’t expect additional compensation. However, if a therapist or masseur goes above and beyond, feel free to compensate them for their extra effort, but be cautious not to offend with an extravagant gesture. A tip in this context showcases your appreciation for their exceptional skills and personalised attention.
Must-Do's in Finland
1
Visit Helsinki's Winter Wonderland
Helsinki, Finland’s capital city, is a magical wonderland during winter, so visiting Helsinki should definitely be on your bucket list. The city is full of lights, Christmas markets, and ice rinks. The historic centre is vibrant, with ornamented churches, charming boutique shops, and restaurants that serve traditional Finnish cuisine. You can take a sightseeing cruise to see the city’s varied coastlines. Plus, you can’t miss the Helsinki Cathedral, one of the city’s most iconic structures that overlook the city’s central square.
2
Soak up the Finnish Sauna Experience
Saunas are a significant part of the Finnish culture. Imagine sitting in a cosy, warm room with temperatures set at 70-80 degrees Celsius, breathing in the aromatic steam and just relaxing. Yes, please! The sauna tradition in Finland is said to be over 2,000 years old, and the country has over three million saunas! You can enjoy saunas on rooftop terraces that overlook the city, on the shores of lakes, or in the middle of forests. Try the sauna experience, it’s healing and relaxing, and it’s an excellent way to warm up.
3
Take a Reindeer Sled Ride
Finland isn’t all about the lights, the culture, or the saunas. There’s something special about Finnish wildlife too. The Christmas movie The Grinch came to life in Finland – have you ever imagined taking a reindeer sled ride through the snowy terrain? Yes, it’s a real thing! You can go on a ride in places like Lapland, where Santa Claus Village, The Arctic Circle, Northern Lights, and authentic Icebreakers await you. Taking a sled ride through this beautiful wintry wonderland is an experience like no other.
4
Go Northern Lights Hunting
Every year, thousands of visitors fly over to Finland just to catch a glimpse of the mesmerising Northern Lights. Finland is one of the best places to see the Aurora because the country is situated around the Aurora zone. The winter nights are very long, which gives you a higher chance of spotting the Northern Lights. You can take an organised Aurora hunting tour that’ll take you to the designated locations to watch the breathtaking, green, and blue lights dance across the night sky. Make sure to bundle up, stay warm, and don’t forget your camera!
5
Try Authentic Finnish Food
Finally, what’s the point of travelling to another country if you don’t dive into the local cuisine? Finland’s most classic and traditional treats consist of different varieties of meatballs, fish, and Rye bread. The country is specialised in using Finnish ingredients and dining methods, and all dishes are served with a side of beautiful presentation. Get a chance to visit some of the notable restaurants that date back to Helsinki’s 18th century. Local cuisines are unique and authentic, and I bet you won’t regret tasting Finnish cuisine.