Whether you’re here for a short or long layover, here are 9 things to do on a layover at Helsinki Airport.
1. Enjoy a good meal
Whether waiting for a short- or long-haul flight, you might want a better meal than whatever they’re serving on board. Luckily, you’ve got a good range of options here. For a proper and leisurely sit-down meal, check out Pier Zero, and Nordic Kitchen. Bubbles, O’Leary’s, The Oak Barrel Irish Pub, and Wine & View, offer international craft beers and wines, perfect for hanging out for a while or doing your own unofficial bar crawl. Or, opt for speedier options like Two Tigers Sushi and Noodles, Bastard Burgers, Street Food Club and Helsinki Market. You’ll find several Starbucks and Burger Kings, too. A few options remain open 24 hours if you’re staying overnight.
2. Lounge
Airport lounges are no longer the exclusive enclave of First and Business Class flyers. A few lounges here cater to all travellers, regardless of your flight class or airline. Pay an all-inclusive fee to access unlimited food, drinks, WiFi, and comfortable, quieter digs than the main terminal. A couple of lounges even have shower facilities! Pre-book online or use your lounge membership program to gain entry. See our Helsinki Airport Guide for locations.
3. Shop
Take your time browsing the many shops, all offering that well-curated, modern design. You’ll find plenty of Duty-Free options, so sample the body lotions and makeup or window shop at high-end boutiques. Several bookstores are offering both Finnish and English titles. For something local, visit the Iittala Store, Finspiration, and the locally-made, internationally-known Marimekko fabric and fashion company.
4. Check out the Aviation Museum
If you are an aviation and history buff, consider taking the 20-minute stroll or opt for a quick from the terminal building to the nearby Finnish Aviation Museum, open from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. daily, with extended hours on Wednesdays.
5. Get married!
Believe it or not, many couples opt for an in-airport wedding here, inside the Congress VIP Lounges. It might seem a little strange at first, but if you’re looking for a sleek, Finnish style and you want to head to your honeymoon straight away, it might be the perfect option! Plus, how many of your guests have been to an airport wedding before?
6. Pick up a new book
If you’ve already finished the book you brought along, you can swap it out for another book at the Book Swapping Station, located at Gate 12.
7. Sightseeing
Can’t stand being in an airport or plane for a second longer? Leave the airport behind on your layover and go for an adventure! As long as you’ve got at least 7 hours before your next flight, you can get an excellent overview of beautiful Helsinki, and public transit makes it easy and affordable.
The Ring Rail Line is the easiest way to reach downtown Helsinki.
Once in the compact city center, you can explore on foot, as long as you’re dressed for the weather! (If it’s too cold, opt for a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus to see the main sights!) The train station is known for its architecture, and you can pop by the iconic Helsinki Cathedral. The Kampii Chapel is also a must-see. Join the locals for an all-season walk around the lake. Is shopping your thing? Check out the factory stores of local design brands Iittala, Arabia, and Marrimeko. Stop often for a hot coffee, as Helsinki is known for its cafe culture.
However you spend your time, leave plenty of time to return to the airport for your next flight!
8. WiFi
Free WiFi is available and unlimited, so you can spend your layover chatting with friends and family or catching up on social media.
9. Sleep
Many quieter areas, carpeting, and even some private nooks and crannies make this airport pretty friendly to sleepers. Plus, the staff are generally accommodating, and the facilities feel safe and clean. If a hotel is more your style, there are three hotels available. GLO Hotel Vantaa Airport and Scandic Helsinki Airport are connected to Terminal 2, and Hilton Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is connected to the main terminal. Day rooms are available. See our Helsinki Airport Guide for details and locations.
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Helsinki Airport. Visit our Helsinki Airport Guide for more information about the services and facilities available, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.