Finland : Safety by CityFinland is where cool, calm, and quietly spectacular collide.
Tucked between Sweden and Russia in northern Europe, it’s a country that doesn’t need to shout to impress.
Finland became independent of Russia in 1917 and has built a reputation for strong democracy, innovation, and a deep respect for nature.
It’s also home to the indigenous Sámi people, whose culture is especially present in the northern Lapland region.
Today, nearly five million people visit Finland each year to experience something uniquely balanced.
The country mixes world-class design and cutting-edge tech alongside forests, lakes, and total silence.
Some come for the Northern Lights and Arctic adventures.
Others lean into Helsinki’s creative energy or escape into the stillness of Lakeland and the coast.
And let’s not forget saunas.
There are more of them than cars.
Summer is by far the most popular time to visit, especially June through August, when festivals are in full swing and the sun barely sets.
Winter also draws big crowds to Lapland, especially in December for holiday magic and February through March for snow sports and Northern Lights chasing.
Finns are often seen as quiet or reserved, but it’s more about respecting personal space than being unfriendly.
If you take a little time to understand their culture and social etiquette (like not forcing small talk or keeping your voice down in public), you’ll find they’re kind, honest, and genuinely helpful.
Warnings & Dangers in Finland
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Finland is one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is rare, locals are helpful, and public services work well. Most visitors have zero issues. But there are some specifics to know about before you book the trip.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transport in Finland is clean, reliable, and safe, even at night. Helsinki has a solid network of trams, buses, and metro. Taxis are regulated but expensive. Rideshares like Uber do operate in major cities. Always book through official apps or taxi stands. Don’t hop into a random car expecting a deal.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Pickpocketing isn’t rampant, but it’s the most common issue tourists report, mainly in Helsinki during busy festivals, public transit, or crowded markets. Keep bags zipped, pockets empty, and don’t flash your phone in crowded areas. Outside of Helsinki, the risk drops sharply. It's more about awareness than danger.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Finland doesn’t deal with earthquakes, hurricanes, or major floods. The biggest natural risks are weather-related: icy roads in winter, extreme cold in the north, or getting lost in wilderness areas. Snowstorms can delay travel, but the infrastructure is built to handle it. Pack appropriately and check weather updates.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings are extremely rare in Finland, even in big cities. Violent crime is low, and attacks on tourists are almost unheard of. You’re more likely to misplace your wallet than have it taken from you. Still, stick to well-lit areas. Watch out for hungry wildlife if you're in remote areas. You don't want to feed hungry bears or moose.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Finland has a very low threat level when it comes to terrorism. There have been isolated incidents, but nothing on a scale that should impact travel plans. Security services are active and low-profile. Airports and transport hubs operate calmly and without the heavy surveillance vibe seen in higher-risk countries.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams aren’t a major concern in Finland. You won’t find aggressive street vendors, fake charities, or dodgy tourist traps. The rare scams that exist might involve overcharging in taxis or unofficial rental sites. Book with reputable companies, read reviews, and don’t let your guard down just because the vibe is chill.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Finland is one of the safest places for solo female travelers. Harassment is rare, and the culture is respectful. You can walk alone at night in most areas without issue. Still, as anywhere, be mindful of alcohol intake, keep your phone charged, and go with a guide into the wilderness.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water in Finland is among the cleanest in the world. Drink straight from the faucet without hesitation. Refill your bottle at hotels, restaurants, and public fountains. It’s safe and free.
Safest Places to Visit in Finland
The best place to start looking for things to do in Finland is the official tourism website, visitfinland.com.
The Practical Tips section should be bookmarked since there’s a lot of helpful information there.
Most people start in the Helsinki region.
The capital is stylish, efficient, and surprisingly cool.
Visit the iconic Helsinki Cathedral, the Design Museum, and Suomenlinna, a sea fortress and UNESCO site.
The city also has a strong food scene and easy ferry access to places like Tallinn.
Finland’s Arctic north is where you go for bucket-list adventures.
It’s known as Lapland.
Think Northern Lights, reindeer safaris, and snow-covered everything.
Rovaniemi claims Santa Claus as a local, but the real magic is in the vast wilderness and national parks like Urho Kekkonen and Pyhä-Luosto.
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is between September and March, when the nights are longest and skies are darkest.
For the highest chances, head to Lapland during clear, cold nights from late fall through early spring, especially around the equinoxes.
Eastern Finland is full of water, which is why it’s called Lakeland.
The region is dotted with thousands of lakes, including Lake Saimaa, one of Europe’s largest.
Rent a cottage, hit a sauna, or cruise the waterways.
It’s a peaceful counterbalance to the city scene and a great place to disconnect.
This southwest stretch of the coast and archipelago includes charming coastal towns like Turku and Rauma, both full of history.
The Archipelago Sea has more islands than you’ll have time for, and the views are pure Scandinavian postcard.
It’s less touristy but worth the trip for slow travel fans.
Places to Avoid in Finland
Finland isn’t a country full of “don’t go there” warnings.
Crime is low across the board.
The biggest issues most travelers face are petty, such as pickpocketing in busier Helsinki areas.
What you should think about avoiding has more to do with nature and timing.
For starters, the darkest time of year, mid-November through January, means some areas, especially in the north, only get a few hours of daylight.
In parts of Lapland, the sun doesn’t rise at all for weeks.
Keep this in mind if you plan on driving through the dark, wintry conditions chasing the Northern Lights.
Lapland, while gorgeous, is no joke.
It’s Finland’s version of Alaska: wild, vast, and remote.
Spend the money to get a guide for a hike or long-distance trek.
Don’t go into the wilderness alone.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Finland
- If you need help in Finland, call 112. It connects you with police, medical services, or fire response anywhere in the country. The system works well, and operators usually speak English. You don’t need a local SIM to call. Just dial, even from a locked phone or without cell service.
- To stay informed in real time, download the 112 Suomi app. It sends location-based emergency alerts in English and helps you connect quickly with local services if needed. You can also check local news sources, but this app is the fastest way to get official updates if something happens.
- There are no special vaccines required for travel to Finland. Just make sure your routine immunizations, like measles, tetanus, and flu, are up-to-date. There’s no malaria, and the water is safe to drink. Medical care is excellent, and pharmacies are easy to find if you need anything while you’re there.
- You can bring a 90-day supply of personal prescriptions with a doctor’s note or copy of the prescription. For medications that fall under stricter rules, like opioids or ADHD medications, you’ll need a medical certificate, and only a 14-day supply is allowed. Pack medications in original containers in your carry-on.
- Visitors can drive in Finland with a U.S. or EU license for up to six months. Roads are well-maintained and clearly marked, but in winter, conditions can be icy or snowy. Winter tires are required by law. Watch for wildlife on rural roads, especially in Lapland and northern areas.
- Sidewalks are often divided into lanes for walkers and cyclists. The walking lane is usually closer to buildings, while the bike lane runs closer to the street. Look for painted symbols on the path, and stay alert to avoid accidentally stepping into a cyclist’s route.
- Finnish and Swedish are the official languages, but most locals speak English very well, especially in cities. You might run into limited English in rural areas, but it’s rarely a major issue. Learning a few polite words in Finnish is always appreciated, but you’ll get by just fine in English.
- Tipping isn’t expected in Finland. Restaurant bills, taxis, and salon services already include service fees. If you feel strongly about rounding up or leaving a small amount, it won’t offend anyone, but it’s not necessary and definitely not the cultural norm.
- Reindeer roam freely in northern Finland, especially in Lapland. As tempting as it is to get close, don’t feed them. It’s illegal and disrupts their behavior and safety. Admire them from a distance or visit a licensed reindeer farm for a safe, ethical experience that won’t get you in trouble.
- Walking with poles—aka Nordic walking—is common in Finland, especially on trails and in parks. It’s a respected form of fitness, not a quirky hobby. If you see someone using poles, give them space and keep to your side of the path. In fact, you might want to give it a try. Nordic walking is one heck of a workout.
So... How Safe Is Finland Really?
Finland is one of the safest countries to visit in the world.
Finland ranks as one of the safest countries in the world.
That holds true whether you’re talking about crime rates, extreme weather, infrastructure reliability, or just the general vibe of not needing to look over your shoulder every five minutes.
Even countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia, which issue travel advisories for other countries, put Finland at the lowest risk level.
That said, you don’t want to let your guard down.
Pickpocketing is a problem during the tourist season, especially in Helsinki.
Police Inspector Hanna Kiiskinen said in April 2025, “One thief distracts the tourist, maybe by bumping into them.
While the tourist’s attention is diverted to the person who bumped into them, another thief steals [the target’s] valuables.”
Finland is a place where common sense and situational awareness go a long way.
How Does Finland Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Finland | 86 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Americans can visit Finland visa-free for up to 90 days, but that’s 90 days total across all Schengen countries, not just Finland. The clock doesn’t reset when you cross borders. Your passport needs to be valid for at least three months past your departure. Staying longer? You’ll need a visa.
Currency
Finland uses the euro, and credit cards are widely accepted, even at market stalls and in taxis. Cash is almost optional, but it doesn’t hurt to carry a small amount for remote areas.
Weather
Finland’s weather is all over the place. Winter? Brutal, dark, and snowy. Summer? Short but gorgeous, with daylight that barely ends. Pack for the season, but always plan for cold, wind, and sudden rain. Even in July, you might need a jacket. Layers will save your trip (and your mood).
Airports
Helsinki Airport (HEL) is your main entry point and runs like a well-oiled, quiet machine. Regional airports exist, but unless you're heading way up north, you’ll probably just connect or take a train from Helsinki.
Travel Insurance
Don’t skip travel insurance. Healthcare in Finland is excellent, but not free if you're a tourist. Whether you trip on ice, lose a bag, or your flight gets wiped out by a strike (yes, it happens), insurance gives you peace of mind.
Finland Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
-3 | -3 | 1 | 7 | 14 | 19 | 22 | 20 | 14 | 7 | 2 | -1 |
| Low °C |
-9 | -10 | -7 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 13 | 12 | 7 | 2 | -3 | -7 |
| High °F |
27 | 27 | 34 | 45 | 57 | 66 | 72 | 68 | 57 | 45 | 36 | 30 |
| Low °F |
16 | 14 | 19 | 28 | 39 | 50 | 55 | 54 | 45 | 36 | 27 | 19 |
Finland - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Helsinki | 95 |
| Oulu | 70 |
❤
Relly very nice&safe country.i wish if gov of finland help me.i wanna come there and spend my life there ❤
Beautiful and low risk. a very safe country in the world
Very safe!
Hi, I am a Finnish citizen for years and can say its a very safe country! I live on the City of Lahti and crime barely exists in Finland except some pickpockets (eastern europeans) on Helsinki .
Thats all have a nice day!
I want to go there someday☺️
True story about safety
I too, am a Finn and oh BOY do I love this country. It’s super safe and here’s the funny thing: Someone bought the house next to my grandparents one, and it became a gang’s “base” (dunno what to call it). There’s only been one police operation there, and otherwise the members are pretty nice! They’ve rented an electric saw to neat up the bush fence in between, and all of that kinda stuff. Gramps feels safe living there!
On turvallista
Hei olen asunut suomessa jo monta vuotta ja voin sanoa että rikollisuutta ja epäturvallisuuden tunnetta ei ikinä ole ja mukava asua naistenkaan ei tarvitse pelätä/olla valppaana vapaa maa kaikille
Auto-Translated from Finnish:
Hey I have lived in Finland for many years and I can say that crime and epäturvallisuuden sense is never nice to live and women do not need to worry / be alert free land for all
Finland is very beautiful, its people very helpful and friendly,albeit somewhat shy.
good
Well, I visited Finland before I saw this, and I’m not saying that you should do this. (even though, generally people are nice) So I was taking my children to Fazzer and someone offered to take us thereafter I asked which transportation would be cheaper and faster, and so I doubted a little then I accepted.
When he dropped us off at the factory he said only to pay him 5 euros (even when the taxis are usually 10 euros) and he was very nice.
So that was just my experience in Finland, but yeah it’s very wonderful and beautiful.
Turpa kiinni sönkkö!!!! Finland is very dangerous country and specially Oulu a city which hates immigrants that have danger skin colour. Every minute in Oulu white people beat immigrants on the streets specially during Friday and Saturday when people drink some viina in bars and clubs. So if you’re of Asian or African descent you should be careful in Oulu and remain vigilant in the evening because if you speak a foreign language you will find yourself lying on the street unconscious and blood spattering from your face. And there are also a gang called Soldiers of Odin who roam the streets in the evenings and at nights. This gang carries knives and maybe hand guns so be careful if you come face to face with them, they will not spare you if your skin colour does not suit them. Always carry pepper spray with you and be ready to call 112 if you feel threatened. And you should always record any racist encounters with you smartphone so that you have evidence to show to police. My advise is to avoid Oulu at all means possible if you care of your dear life.
Safe country
That’s why its safe. ***** *****!
Finland is very safe
Aaro your lying Finland is safe
When you say Finland is dangerous, then you haven’t seen dangerous places.
Pretty accurate stuff, except the Malmi airport is just for private aviation and flight training. The second busiest commercial airport is at Oulu (Northern Finland). I’m local but as a tourist I would avoid maybe Kaisaniemi park and main railway station in Helsinki during nights. Finland is really safe, just to remember to lock your bike 🙂
Feel safe and relax
Fully agreed except this “It is common for parents to leave their sleeping babies in a baby carriage on the street while visiting a shop”. Nobody leaves here babies in a baby carriage on the street alone!
It is totally safe to visit here, warmly welcome!
Wow very smart country I wish I could get chance to visit this country for job
Safe!
One of the countries where you don’t have to constantly pat your pockets to make sure everything is where it should. The people are so, so helpful and friendly and if you like outdoor activities here everyone seems to go for a run, ride a bike, skate etc
Mostly very safe, a bit less for women and POC
Hello, writing this as a young Finnish woman who lives in Southern Finland. I’m no expert and I’m only writing things based on my personal experience.
I can say with confidence that Finland is about 95% safe, so your chance of running into trouble here is minimal. There’s a couple things solo travelers, especially women and people of colour should look out for.
1. Be vigilant in Helsinki in the evening, especially on vacation times or from Friday to Sunday. The area around the train station has incidents of pickpocketing and even people threatening others with knives to give their money. I would not recommend wandering around aimlessly there in the evenings or especially at night.
2. Though most Finns are friendly, some may be a bit racist. I am white myself so I have not encountered racism that was directed at me, however I have seen it being directed at others in the form of jokes and dirty looks ect. Finland is unfortunately rated one of the most racist countries in Europe, so it’s something to look out for, but shouldn’t be a super big problem for tourists.
3. Intoxicated people. Another reason why I don’t recommend walking alone in bigger cities especially if you’re a woman or a person of small stature. Finns really like to get drunk on Fridays and weekends. Most drunks will leave you be if you don’t engage, though, so you’ll most likely be just fine.
Conclusion: Finland is very safe, as long as you’re careful in the evenings and remain mostly vigilant. No need to feel scared and welcome!
We DO take care of our babies!!
Wth. I am not even commenting the other statements( but just hoping tourists wouldn’t rely on the feeling of overall safety, the rates mean nothing if the shit happends to you), BUT NO ONE LEAVES THEIR BABIES OUTSIDE WHILE VISITING THE SHOP!! Maybe someone has done that at 70’s in some small countryside town! You would immediately get cops and social workers after you if you’d do that. Insane statement I just cant understand who has said such a BS, and why it is written here without questioning. We are not animals!
Safe and nice country
I visited Finland while I was vacationing in Estonia. Felt very safe. Asked a Finnish gentleman for directions. He was very helpful and explained everything in detail. Super nice country with good people.