I am considering purchasing tickets with Finnair. One option has a just-under 24 hour layover in Helsinki (missing the connection by 15 minutes!). I look at it as an opportunity to get a quick peek at a city I've never visited. So...do I stay at an airport hotel with a shuttle (flights arrive/depart around 3 pm) or stay in a more central location and use public transit?
Posted by
Sweden
6470 posts
In general, cities are more interesting than airports. So a hotel close to the central station would be my choice.
Posted by
Chicago
348 posts
Plus, while the airport is not all that close to downtown Helsinki, public transit is easy.
There are bus and train options, and the downtown area is pretty compact, good for
a quick visit.
Posted by
Freedonia
15276 posts
I've stayed at the Hilton at the airport when I had a very early morning flight the next day. It's on airport grounds and a five minute walk from the terminal.
However, since it's a 3 pm arrival and departure, I would find a hotel near the main train station in Helsinki and stay there. Spend the evening and following morning exploring Helsinki. Then take the train back to the airport. It's underneath the terminal.
Posted by
844 posts
I agree with the others. Take the train and stay near the station. The train is very easy.
Posted by
21 posts
We ended up with a 15 hour layover in Helsinki 2 years ago flying Finnair from Dubrovnik to Seattle after Finnair dropped a scheduled flight. We arrived in Helsinki just before midnight and stayed in a hotel in the airport. We checked out early the next morning leaving our bags with the hotel and took an Uber into Helsinki, did a walking tour had lunch a walk along the waterfront and park.
Given your arrival time I would agree that staying closer to town makes more sense for you and I would recommend that you take advantage of a walking tour as well!
Posted by
Washington DC
27236 posts
There are interesting sights and some very attractive Art Nouveau buildings within walking distance of the central station (which itself is of architectural interest).
Posted by
OP
Vancouver, WA
488 posts
Thank you. Staying in the city center is my preference as well. Good to know that transportation is easy.
Posted by
Huntsville, AL, USA
8178 posts
It all depends on the month of the year. I would stay and see Helsinki as long as the weather is not cold. If it's in the winter, stay at an airport hotel.
Posted by
Sweden
6470 posts
Good to know that transportation is easy.
Very easy. There are frequent commuter trains from the airport that take you to the central station in around 40 minutes. A single ticket costs €4.10. For hotels you can have a look at hotel Vaakuna, a literal stone's throw from the central station and close to almost all tram routes.