Finland’s stunning natural landscapes, modern cities, and rich Nordic heritage make it a top travel destination, where knowing how to handle money is just as important as planning your itinerary. Whether you’re exploring Helsinki’s design district, enjoying a sauna experience, or chasing the Northern Lights in Lapland, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Finland (Euro (EUR)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy Finland’s seamless and modern payment systems.
How to pay in Finland – cash or card?
In Finland, card payments are the dominant method of transaction, with cash usage significantly lower. Contactless payments account for over 65% of all card transactions.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities have adopted contactless and card payments, some regional or rural transport services may still accept cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Some traditional markets and street vendors may prefer cash, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: A few small or family-run shops and eateries might prefer cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is not a widespread custom in Finland, but when done, it’s often in cash.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, while electronic payment facilities are generally available, it’s prudent to carry some cash as a backup.
You can use card for:
Hotels: All major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: The majority of dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Online Services: E-commerce platforms, online bookings for flights, accommodations, and other services typically require card payments.
Fuel Stations: Most accept cards, but it’s advisable to confirm beforehand, especially in remote areas.
What’s the best currency to take to Finland
Euro (EUR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Finland. Paying or withdrawing money in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
Other currencies, such as US Dollars or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Finland
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Finland. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Finland
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Finland
If you’re withdrawing money in Finland from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus, American Express and Diners cards. Others like JCB, UnionPay, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Finland
Bringing a small amount of Euros (EUR) before traveling to Finland can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, public transport, or small purchases. However, since the Euro is the official currency, you can easily withdraw it from ATMs or use credit and debit cards for most transactions.
ATMs are widely available across Finland, including airports, cities, and rural areas. Most accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
Exchanging cash before traveling is not necessary, as card payments are widely accepted, even for small transactions. However, if you prefer to carry cash, exchange money at Finnish banks or currency exchange offices for better rates than at airports or hotels.
A mix of cards and a small amount of cash is recommended, but in Finland, digital and card payments are the norm, and many businesses prefer them over cash.
Where to withdraw money in Finland
You can withdraw money in Mozambique at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Finland are independent ATM operators employed by Finnish banks such as:
Otto, and
Nosto.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Finland.
Where to exchange currency in Finland
Common places to exchange currency in Finland are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Finland, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Valuutanvaihto or Forex bureaus. These are widely available in major cities, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include FOREX Bank.
Banks: Major banks such as Nordea, OP Financial Group, and Danske Bank offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays, with some branches open on Saturdays until noon.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Finland.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash safe in Finland
Carrying money in Finland is generally safe, as the country has a low crime rate. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Credit card theft and skimming also happen. It’s advisable to check for card-skimming devices before using ATMs and monitor local media for the latest crime trends. Of course, don’t flash your cash in public and be vigilant of your surroundings.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Finland
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
