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HEL Layover Ideas Helsinki-Vantaa Airport Layover Guide

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Helsinki-Vantaa Airport

Have a long layover at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)? No worries. This bustling airport offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. Here are the top 5 layover ideas that you can enjoy without leaving the airport premises.

1. Explore Finnish Design at Marimekko

Start your layover with a visit to Marimekko, a renowned Finnish design house known for its original prints and colors. The store is located in the airport and provides a wide range of products including clothing, accessories, and home décor. It's a fantastic place to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or gifts.

2. Relax at an Airport Lounge

For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the airport lounges at Helsinki-Vantaa offer a quiet space to relax and recharge. There are several lounges to choose from, each offering comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and free Wi-Fi. Some lounges even provide shower facilities for those who want to freshen up during their layover.

3. Indulge in a Finnish Sauna Experience

Believe it or not, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is one of the few airports in the world that offers a sauna facility. Located within the Finnair Lounge, this authentic Finnish sauna is available for passengers who want to experience a unique part of Finnish culture during their layover.

4. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport boasts a variety of restaurants and cafés that serve both international and Finnish cuisine. Whether you're craving a quick snack or a hearty meal, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

5. Visit the Book Swap Point

For book lovers, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport features a Book Swap point where passengers can leave a book and take another in return. It's a great way to discover a new read for your journey, or leave behind a book for someone else to enjoy.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through HEL Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of HEL's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Helsinki-Vantaa airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near HEL to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have a longer layover of 12 to 48 hours in Helsinki, consider venturing out of the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport to explore some nearby attractions. The city of Helsinki is less than half an hour away and offers a wealth of cultural and recreational activities.

1. Visit the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

Take a short ferry ride from Helsinki's Market Square to Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sea fortress spread across six islands offers a fascinating glimpse into Finland's history. You can explore the fortress walls, visit the museums, or simply enjoy a picnic by the sea.

2. Explore the Helsinki City Museum

The Helsinki City Museum is located in the heart of the city and offers free admission. This museum provides an engaging overview of Helsinki's history and culture, with interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages.

3. Stroll Through Market Square

Market Square is a bustling outdoor market located by the sea in the center of Helsinki. Here, you can sample Finnish delicacies, buy local crafts, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The market is especially beautiful in the morning when the day's fresh catch is brought in.

4. Visit the Helsinki Cathedral

The Helsinki Cathedral is a stunning white church that towers over Senate Square in the center of the city. This iconic landmark is worth a visit for its beautiful architecture and the panoramic views of the city from the steps.

5. Wander in the Linnanmäki Amusement Park

If you're traveling with kids, or are a kid at heart, make sure to visit Linnanmäki. This popular amusement park offers a variety of rides and games, and the admission is free. You only pay for the rides you want to go on, making it a flexible option for a fun-filled layover.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

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