- Travel News
- June 29, 2024
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Finland is boosting its tourism industry with a new visa-free policy for 72 countries, including Schengen nations, Portugal, the US, and Taiwan.
Finland is boosting its tourism industry – Finland is known for being a premier travel destination that deftly blends luxury, culture, and adventure, making it the ideal choice for a variety of travel needs, including business and leisure travel. Finland’s tourism industry has been significantly boosted by the recent implementation of a visa-free policy for people of 72 countries, incmuding the US, Taiwan, Portugal, Schengen countries, and more. Travelers can now more easily explore Finland’s unique customs and rich historical legacy thanks to this legislation.
Famous sites like the UNESCO World Heritage site Suomenlinna Sea Fortress and the charming village of Porvoo, known for its well-preserved wooden architecture, allow visitors to experience Finland’s historical charm. Finland offers plenty of year-round adventure activities due to its diverse geography, which includes enormous wilderness areas like Lapland with its captivating Northern Lights, as well as tranquil lakes and vast archipelagos. Husky sledding and snowmobiling in the winter and kayaking and hiking in the summer offer contrasting experiences that are perfect for getting back in touch with nature.
Urban enthusiasts can enjoy lively city experiences in Helsinki and Turku. Though Turku, Finland’s oldest city, acts as a gateway to the scenic archipelago, Helsinki is notable for its inventive design, vibrant arts scene, and busy markets. Savor fine dining, relax in saunas by the lake, and revel in opulent lodgings for luxury travelers. To further enhance Finland’s allure as a holistic tourism destination, wellness retreats are available in the tranquil, snow-covered landscapes of Finnish Lapland.
Finland is becoming a more popular destination for business meetings and corporate travel due to its sophisticated urban centers, especially Helsinki, and strong economy. The city has become a major center for global conferences, trade shows, and business gatherings, bolstered by first-rate lodging and cutting-edge amenities that guarantee business visitors have a smooth and productive stay.
The influential effect of Finland’s visa-free policy, which streamlines entry procedures and increases attractiveness across several travel industries, was highlighted by Anup Kumar Keshan, Editor in Chief of TTW. Due to this calculated action, Finland has experienced significant economic growth and cross-cultural exchange, stimulating specialty businesses such as wellness retreats, adventure travel, and culinary tourism.
Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan, Editor in Chief of TTW, highlighted that Finland’s adoption of a visa-free policy for 72 countries, including Schengen nations, has had a profound impact on the tourism industry. This strategic initiative not only streamlined entry procedures for millions of travelers but also expanded Finland’s appeal across various segments of the travel market. Moreover, the policy has revitalized specialized travel sectors such as culinary tourism, adventure travel, and wellness retreats, thereby enhancing the overall travel experience and driving substantial economic growth alongside cultural exchange.
Countries in the Schengen Area
Within 180 days, citizens of all Schengen Area nations are permitted 90 days of visa-free travel or business in Finland. Among these nations are:
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
European Union Non-Schengen Countries
These countries are part of the European Union but not in the Schengen Area. Their citizens can also enter Finland without a visa:
European Countries Outside the EU
These countries, located in Europe but not part of the EU or Schengen Area, have visa-free access to Finland:
Andorra, Monaco, SanMarino, United Kingdom
Americas
Asia-Pacific
Countries from this region can enter Finland without a visa:
Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan
Emirates of the United Arab Emirates
Africa
Without a visa, citizens of the following African nations can enter Finland:
Seychelles and Mauritius
Regions with Special Administrative Status
Special agreements that grant visa-free entrance to Finland are advantageous to the following regions:
Macau, Hong Kong
Here are the top 5 countries by GDP from the list of nations that can enter Finland without a visa, according to the most recent data from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF):
1. United States
GDP – Approximately $26.7 trillion (2022)
2. Japan
GDP – Approximately $4.2 trillion (2022)
3. Germany
4. United Kingdom
5. France
GDP: Approximately $2.8 trillion (2022)
Visa-Free Stay in Finland: Up to 90 days
Overview: France’s economy is characterized by a strong industrial base, vibrant services sector, and a leading position in luxury goods and tourism.
Top Airports in Finland
Finland’s airports are pivotal in linking the country globally, offering modern amenities and efficient services. Here are the leading airports in Finland:
1. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL)
Location: Vantaa, near Helsinki
Overview: Finland’s largest and busiest airport, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport serves as a major international gateway and a central hub for air traffic, providing extensive connections across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Facilities: Known for its efficient design, modern facilities, and high passenger satisfaction, featuring a variety of dining, shopping, and relaxation options tailored to both leisure and business travelers.
Passenger Traffic: Over 20 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic figures).
2. Airport Tampere-Pirkkala (TMP)
Location: close to Tampere in Pirkkala
Overview: TMP is the second busiest airport in Finland, with flights to and from Europe. It is an important regional hub with growing international connections.
Facilities: Offers standard services including coffee shops, lounges, and vehicle rental agencies.
Handles more than 400,000 passengers a year in passenger traffic.
3. Airport in Oulu (OUL)
Location: close to Oulu, in Oulunsalo
Overview: Oulu Airport is the main airport that serves Northern Finland. It improves regional connection by enabling domestic flights as well as some international charters.
Facilities: Provides a relaxing travel experience with features like meeting spaces, a business lounge, and eating alternatives.
Annual Passenger Volume: Approximately One Million.
4. Airport in Turku (TKU)
Where: Turku
Overview: Turku Airport, situated in southwest Finland, offers a number of low-cost carrier alternatives for both domestic and European travel.
Facilities: Provides stores, eateries, and basic passenger amenities; great for tourists on a tight budget.
Passenger Traffic: Each year, it handles about 450,000 people.
5. Airport Rovaniemi (RVN)
Where: Rovaniemi
Overview: Rovaniemi Airport is a must-visit location for travelers to the Arctic Circle and Santa Claus Village, since it serves as the entry point to Finnish Lapland.
amenities: Offers specific services catered to its special location, such as great winter travel amenities and attractions with a Santa motif.
Annual Passenger Count: Approximately 500,000 individuals.
Finland’s Leading Airlines
Finland’s airlines are renowned for their exceptional service, safety, and punctuality. The top carriers are listed below:
Finnair
Overview: Finnair, the largest airline in Finland and its flag carrier, is well-known for its wide network of flights throughout Europe and Asia, which are based around its hub in Helsinki. It belongs to the Oneworld coalition.
Specialties: renowned for providing first-rate services, such as superb in-flight meals and cozy long-haul travel options, and for its dedication to sustainability and cutting-edge client experiences.
The fleet- More than 80 aircraft .
Nordic Regional Airlines, or Norra
Overview: Finnair relies on Norra as a regional partner, as the airline operates both domestic and regional flights throughout the Nordic region, guaranteeing smooth connections within Finnair’s network.
Specialties: Regular flights that link Finland with its neighbors and effective regional service.
Fleet Size: Approximately 25 aircraft.
Visitors to Finland without a visa can take advantage of a variety of amazing scenery, fascinating cultural landmarks, and unforgettable experiences. Here are a few of Finland’s most popular tourist spots that are ideal for exploration:
1. Helsinki
Why Visit: Finland’s capital city offers a fascinating fusion of cutting-edge facilities and insightful historical sites, as well as a thriving arts and culture scene and spectacular architecture. The Helsinki Cathedral, the unusual Rock Church (Temppeliaukio Church), and the ancient Suomenlinna Sea Fortress are some of the main attractions.
The city is well known for its charming waterfronts, vibrant markets like Market Square, and design area.
Top Attractions:
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Suomenlinna Sea Fortress offers parks, museums, and expansive vistas of the archipelago.
Helsinki Cathedral is a well-known instance of neoclassical design.
Temppeliaukio (Rock) Church: Known for its exceptional acoustics and distinctive design, this church is carved straight into solid rock.
2. Lapland and Rovaniemi
Why Visit:
Rovaniemi, located in Finnish Lapland and famously known as the home of Santa Claus, offers a magical experience with opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, engage in reindeer and husky sledding, and visit Santa Claus Village. The region transforms into a winter wonderland with stunning landscapes, snow-covered forests, and a range of unique Arctic activities.
Top Attractions:
Santa Claus Village: Meet Santa Claus himself, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the official Santa’s post office. Northern Lights: Best viewed from September to March, this natural spectacle is a must-see bucket-list experience. Arktikum Museum: Explore the history and culture of Finnish Lapland and the Arctic region in this informative museum.
3. Tampere
Why Visit:
Tampere is celebrated for its industrial heritage, dynamic cultural scene, and picturesque lakeside setting. The city boasts museums, theaters, and a bustling market hall, along with the iconic Pyynikki Observation Tower offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
Top Attractions:
Moomin Museum: Dedicated to the beloved Moomin characters created by Tove Jansson, this museum features interactive exhibits and artistic displays.
Särkänniemi Adventure Park: A popular amusement park for families, featuring rides, an aquarium, and a planetarium.
Tampere Market Hall: The largest indoor market in the Nordic countries, offering a wide array of local foods and products.
4. Turku
Reasons to Go There:
Finland’s oldest city, Turku, is a cultural and historical treasure trove with stunning views of the river and ancient architecture. It is the entry point to the breathtaking Turku Archipelago, which is renowned for its serene natural beauty and nautical attractions.
Top Attractions:
The well-preserved medieval fortress turned museum, Turku Castle, provides insights into the history of Finland starting in the Middle Ages.
One of Finland’s most famous religious sites, Turku Cathedral is well-known for both its stunning architecture and historical significance.