Helsinki airport transfers to the center and your hotel
Helsinki Airport has a direct rail connection to the central station, making the train a straightforward choice for most arrivals. Both I and P trains reach the center, although they travel around the rail loop in different directions. Your accommodation's location matters as much as the airport journey: check whether you should continue by tram, metro or on foot before buying your HSL ticket.
The airports
- Helsinki Airport (HEL)
- about 20 km north, roughly 30 minutes by train
Every way from the airport to Helsinki
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainI and P trains | HEL | about 30 minutes to Helsinki Central Station | Most arrivals staying near rail, metro or tram stops |
| BusHSL airport bus | HEL | allow around an hour, depending on your route | Addresses along the bus route and some late journeys |
| TaxiAirport taxi rank | HEL | about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic | Door to door travel with luggage or a group |
How each one works
Train: I and P trains
Follow railway signs from the terminal to the airport station. Both I and P trains reach Helsinki Central Station. Buy an HSL ticket covering zones A, B and C before boarding, using the HSL app or a station ticket machine.
Bus: HSL airport bus
Use the HSL journey planner to find the current bus from the airport to your destination and its terminal stop. Buy the required zone ticket before boarding. This can suit accommodation along the bus route or journeys outside train operating hours.
Taxi: Airport taxi rank
Follow terminal signs to the official taxi area. Check the operator's displayed terms and confirm whether a fixed fare applies to your destination before entering. Pay the driver by an accepted method and request a receipt.
Arriving late or leaving early
Check the HSL journey planner for your actual arrival or departure time, since trains do not run all night. Compare the available bus connection with a taxi. For an early flight, work backwards from airline check-in requirements and include the walk from the station to the terminal.
Before you land
- Buy an ABC ticket for the airport train even if your hotel is in the central A or B zones.
- Check the final connection to your accommodation before boarding, especially if you need a tram after reaching the central station.
- Leave time for the walk between the terminal and airport railway platforms when planning an early departure.
Helsinki airport transfers to the center and your hotel
Which train should I take from Helsinki Airport?
Both I and P trains serve Helsinki Central Station. Check the departure display and journey planner for the next suitable service to your destination.
Which ticket covers the airport train?
You need an HSL ticket covering zones A, B and C. Buy it before boarding and check its validity if your journey includes a connecting tram or metro.
Do airport trains run all night?
No. Check the current HSL timetable for your travel time. A bus connection or taxi may be useful when trains are unavailable.
Is a taxi better for a central hotel?
The train is straightforward near the central station. A taxi can suit heavy luggage, a group or an address that requires an awkward onward connection.