You have arrived at Finland’s vibrant southern heart, so waste no time in exploring its cutting-edge capital and vast surrounding landscapes. Car hire at Helsinki Vantaa Airport lets you take to the road for a fascinating journey that can be as lively or tranquil as you desire.

From ancient cathedrals, hedonistic amusement parks and arty museums, to intriguing medieval towns and stunning national parks, the chest of cultural and historic treats is bottomless.

The undiscovered roads of Finland are yours. Which way will you steer first? We make car rental easy, because we know you can’t wait to feel the freedom of the road and get the very most out of your stay. Wherever your travels take you, the keys are waiting for you to unlock the world.

Whatever the purpose of your visit or the size of your group, our Helsinki car hire hubs will have the right vehicle for you. Avis has practicality, performance and comfort all covered, so you can enjoy your car as much as possible. We can provide anything from a compact city car to a 7-seater family SUV – get in touch for more information about the exact models that are available.

Drive for just half an hour down route 45 and you’ll arrive at the diverse city of Helsinki, offering a refreshing range of modern amenities, numerous cultural attractions and a dash of Finnish flair.

Start your tour with the beautiful Helsinki Cathedral, an impressive building designed in the 19th century by architect Carl Ludwig Engel. This five-domed spectacle is a popular attraction and a famous part of the city skyline.

Those in search of art and culture should head to the Ateneum Art Museum, home to an expansive collection of works from the 1750s to the 1950s. You can enjoy the museum at your leisure, opt for a guided tour or take part in an interactive workshop.

Entertain the kids (and all other children at heart) with a trip to Linnanmäki Amusement Park. Opened in 1950, it offers a selection of rides – from carousels and chair swing roundabouts to a 50-year-old wooden rollercoaster.

If the sun is shining, spend a few hours in Esplanade Park, an attractive stretch of peaceful greenery where both locals and visitors relax and enjoy the historic surroundings. The park also hosts numerous concerts and events during the summer months.

Just across from the park, head over to Market Square in the South Harbour where you’ll find a bustling market selling traditional snacks, handicrafts and souvenirs.

Helsinki and vibrant south Finland await ... Step inside your Avis hire car to start your adventure.

Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.

Take a look at these key Finnish road rules, and be prepared before your trip.

(These rules are to be used as a guide, please be aware that rules are subject to change and are correct as of November 2014. Please ask your Avis representative if any queries arise.)

In Finland, drive on the right side of the road.

Unique Driving Laws:

• Use of headlights is compulsory in Finland
• Winter tyres are mandatory in Finland between 1st Dec – 28th Feb
• Do not use horn unless in danger
• Streets may be cleaned on regular basis; signs will indicate when you are not permitted to park on the roadside

According to Finnish law, the use of mobile phone while driving is restricted to the use of a hands-free device

Any accident with wildlife (elk, reindeer or other big animal) must be reported to the police

Vehicles may stop or park on the road only on the right-hand side

Speed Limits

For a standard Avis rental vehicle with no trailers:

• Urban areas: 31 mph (40 km/h) or 25 mph (50 km/h) or 19 mph (30 km/h)
• Motorways: 62 mph (100 km/h) or 74 mph (120 km/h)
• Rural areas: 49 mph (80 km/h) or 62 mph (100 km/h)

Please be aware of changing speeds indicated by road signs.

Child Safety / Seatbelt Laws

It is compulsory for all inside the vehicle to wear a seatbelt.

A child less than 135 cm travelling in a car, van or lorry must be seated in the correct child seat.

Please note - It is the child’s parent/guardian or vehicle renter’s responsibility to fit the child seat.

Southern Finland is a delight to explore. With the vibrant city of Helsinki at its heart, the surrounding area offers picture-perfect villages, beautiful landscapes and crystal clear lakes. Sightseeing and nightlife, peace and tranquility – you can find it all during your Finish road trip.

Järvenpää
Navigate just 35 minutes north from Helsinki Vantaa Airport and you’ll arrive in Järvenpää, the hometown of world-famous composer Jean Sibelius. Set in beautiful surroundings next to Lake Tuusula, a tour of his house and gardens is a must.

Porvoo
Head northeast along the E18 from Helsinki Vantaa Airport and an hour later you’ll be transported back in time in the medieval town of Porvoo. This small but fascinating destination is a popular day trip from Helsinki and famous for its unusual port warehouses. Explore Porvoo Cathedral and the Old Town Hall, and satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the chocolate factory.

Nuuksio National Park
If you’d rather escape the bustle, head west from the airport on the E18 and just 40 minutes later you’ll arrive at the natural wonderland of Nuuksio National Park. With a beautiful lake, numerous waking trails and excellent facilities (including huts to rent and cooking shelters), it’s the ideal place to connect with nature. See if you can catch a rare glimpse of the illusive flying squirrel.

All this and more is waiting for you. Just pick up the keys to your hire car at Helsinki Vantaa Airport and drive.

Do I need winter tyres to drive in Finland?

Yes, from 2024 it will be a legal requirement for all passenger cars in Finland to be equipped with winter tyres, during the winter months. All cars in our Helsinki rental hubs have winter tyres to comply with this legislation.

How far is Helsinki Airport from the centre of town?

The distance is around 20 km, so you can make the journey in under half an hour once you have your car hire at Helsinki Airport.

What is Helsinki known for?

The world’s northernmost metropolitan area with a population of over one million, Helsinki is Finland’s capital. It has a unique blend of contemporary and historic architecture, and has been described as one of the most liveable cities in Europe.