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Transportation & Reach
The diverse public transport system of Helsinki consists of trams, light commuter rail, subway, bus lines and ferry lines. It is the only city in Finland to have trams or subway trains.

However, the sparse population of the city has made it one of the most car-dependent major cities in Europe, which is something the growing city might see as a major problem in the future therefore, public transportation is generally a hotly debated subject in the local politics of the capital.

The best way to get around Helsinki’s museums, parks, ride unlimited on the public transport system and enjoy some other great discounts is to get a Helsinki Kortti (Helsinki Card).

Helsinki Airports:

• Vantaa International Airport (HEL): The airport is situated about 20km (12m) from the city center.
• Malmi Airport (HEM): It is used general aviation (small planes).

Helsinki Railway Transportation: The main rail service provider in Finland is Valtion Rautatiet (VR). The international trains from neighboring Denmark, Norway & Sweden have regular stops at Helsinki.

Local Transportation of Helsinki:
All public transportation (with the exception of suburban trains) within Helsinki operates under Helsingin Kaupungin Liikennelaitos (HKL). While the regional rail transportation is operated by YTV (Helsinki Metropolitan Area Council) connecting Helsinki to the neighboring cities like Espoo, Vantaa & Kauniainen.

• Tram: The extensive tram network is the most convenient & scenic means of travel in Helsinki.
• Bus: The buses cover almost the whole city. The main stations for northbound & eastbound buses are adjacent to the Central Railway Station namely, Eliel Square (Elielinaukio) & Railway Square (Rautatientori). While the westbound buses operate from the underground bus station in Kamppi Center which is adjacent to the Kamppi metro station.
• Metro: Metro line runs from the center to eastern suburbs of Helsinki. After Itakeskus, the line splits in two, with one line going to Mellunmaki & other to Vuosaari.
• Boat/Ferry: The HKL ferry to Suomenlinna from Market Square (Kauppatori) is a cheap and popular summer getaway providing a scenic ride. While the routes from which one can get into the city through ferry or boat are Stockholm, Tallinn or St Petersburg. In addition, private operators provide ferries to Suomenlinna and various other islands.

Hotels & Accommodation
Helsinki has umpteen number of five star, four star & three star hotels with many attractive peculiarities. These luxurious hotels are generally located close to railway station, airport and sea, these hotels are really convenient for the tourists.

Though the city is the most expensive place to lodge in the country but the higher prices are reflected in the comfort, quality & cleanliness of all accommodations, whether classy hotels or homely guest houses.

Hotels of Helsinki	Average Rates
5-Star	$260-400
4-Star	$170-270
2-Star	$102-170
Budget Hotels	$ 60-100