Driving in Finland

Finland is the most sparsely populated country in the European Union. Outside the major cities, driving is usually the most practical way to get around. Traffic is safe, speeds are modest and most roads have little traffic. Drivers should allow plenty of time for the drive and for frequent sightseeing stops. Long distances, particularly when travelling south-to-north, means that driving will take time. A drive along the full extent of its longest highway, National road 4 (part of E75), requires at least 15 hours.

In Helsinki, roads and streets are congested during rush hours, many streets are one-way, making navigation difficult, and parking is scarce and expensive. In addition, don't count on all lanes being available, as closures for road work and other interruptions are common. The problem is perhaps not as big as in major cities elsewhere, but enough that your main worry should be how to get rid of your car. Most families here don't have one, instead relying on public transport when not walking.

Also in and between other major cities, the public transport is mostly adequate, and there may be problems with congestion and parking, although not as severe as in Helsinki.