Travel around Finland with train tickets and reservations online via our booking links. Seat reservation is not available for commuter trains (marked IC or Pendolino in timetables) but you can buy an extra class ticket for more comfort at reasonable prices.
The state-owned railway operator VR runs passenger services on a 7,225 km (4,448 mi) network. The broad 1,524 m (5 ft) standard gauge allows through running with no change of voltage over the border with Russia.
Trains
Finland has a wide network of long distance train routes, operated by the state-owned company VR. The main passenger train station in Helsinki is called Helsinki Central railway station, and it serves as a hub for commuter rail services and most long-distance trains coming to the city from other areas of the country.
The station is located in the heart of Helsinki, on Kaivokatu 1. It connects to the metro system via Asematunneli tunnel, and is also home to the Rautatientori metro and shopping wing complex.
The bus behemoth Flixbus recently launched a new route from Vaasa to Warsaw, and is expected to expand its services in the future. Prices on its domestic routes are generally cheaper than flying, though longer international journeys are still a little more expensive. Vivanoda is a great tool for comparing the various transportation options for your trip, including trains, buses and planes. It will also help you compare ticket prices and travel times so that you can choose the best option for your budget and schedule.
Ferries
Finland has a long history with ferry services and there are more routes than trains. They tend to be more like cruise ships than trains and offer a range of passenger services including restaurants, cafes, shopping and even a night club on some boats. They are often cheaper than flying to Vaasa but heavily depend on your departure time and where you are going in Helsinki. The main ferry companies in Helsinki are Viking Line and Tallink Silja and they use the South Harbour which is a short walk or bus ride from central Helsinki.
The Finnish transport website Reittiopas has a point-to-point journey planner; enter your address and required travel dates and it will show you the best options, comparing fares, times and connections. You can also save routes for later. Single tickets and Value tickets are valid for 80-110 minutes and allow transfers between different modes of transport. Children, full-time students and pensioners receive discounted rates.
Buses
The bus service in Finland is modern and punctual, and long distance buses are often a bit cheaper than flying. Most are air-conditioned and have reclining seats. Some include bathrooms and free power outlets. Ticket purchases can be made online or with an app, using VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, JCB, PayPal or Apple Pay. Check Finnish versions of websites for specials marked with “Tarkoituksia” (“specials”) or “Tarjoukset” (“bus deals”).
There is a large, well-maintained local bus traffic system in Vaasa, operated by Vaasan Paikallisliikenne (Vaasan city buses). The main terminal is located on the western side of Rewell Center. Buses leave for Helsinki, Turku and other coastal towns in the Kvarken archipelago. There are also bus connections to other cities in west Finland. German/international bus behemoth FlixBus recently launched its first coach services in Finland, with a route between Vaasa on the west coast and Warsaw. The new routes will connect with other FlixBus routes across Europe, as well as the Baltic states and Russia.
Cars
The Finnish rail network is operated by VR, and the company offers a great range of long distance travel options. Its passenger trains are modern, comfortable and punctual, and many offer amenities such as free power outlets and Wi-Fi. The network stretches all the way north to Kolari, and it can be reached by train from Helsinki.
Bus service in Finland is extensive and affordable, with routes covering the entire country. The buses run often and are clean, with air conditioning and reclining seats. They have bathrooms and seat belts. Some also have power outlets, and prices vary widely depending on the route. Look for the magic words “tarjoukset” or “saasto” to find specials.
The ferry services run regularly between Vaasa and Ume
