Helsinki Safety Guide
Is Helsinki Safe?
Learn how locals scam tourists in Helsinki and how to avoid becoming a victim. Below you'll find Helsinki crime statistics — the probability of being robbed or attacked, information about corruption in Helsinki, safety tips and precautions.
Daytime Safety:
Nighttime Safety:
Comfort Rating
In terms of safety, Helsinki is remarkably safe during daylight hours. Basic awareness is all you need. The evening atmosphere stays pleasant, with most areas remaining safe for walking.
Robberies and Theft:
Armed Robberies:
Assaults:
Corruption:
Drug Issues: low
Beggars: low
Vandalism: low
Theft from Cars: low
Car Theft:
Local Scam Alert: What to Watch For
Taxi Meter Trick (Medium Risk) - Some unofficial taxis near Helsinki-Vantaa Airport and popular tourist spots like Senate Square may claim their meter is malfunctioning, demanding inflated flat rates instead. To avoid this issue, always use official taxi stands and ensure the meter is running before you start your journey.
Cash Only Restaurants (Medium Risk) - A few restaurants and cafés in tourist-heavy areas, like the Market Square (Kauppatori), may try to convince visitors that they only accept cash while they actually accept cards. To protect yourself, check the payment options before ordering and look for cards stickers at the entrance.
Fake Charity Collectors (Low Risk) - In busy places like the Esplanadi, you might encounter individuals guilting tourists into donating to fake charities, often wearing misleading clothing or claiming they represent orphanages. Protect yourself by not engaging and verifying any charity's legitimacy through official channels before donating.
Souvenir Pricing Trick (Medium Risk) - In markets such as the Hakaniemi Market, some vendors may inflate prices for European or American tourists while offering lower prices to locals for similar items. Stay vigilant by researching average prices for different souvenirs beforehand and don't hesitate to negotiate.
Public Transport Ticket Scams (High Risk) - While riding the tram, some individuals may approach you pretending to check tickets but actually aim to sell you counterfeit tickets. Always purchase your ticket from official vending machines or ticket sales points at tram stops and validate it before boarding to avoid penalties.
Currency Exchange Overcharging (Medium Risk) - Money exchange kiosks around tourist hotspots, including the Helsinki Central Station, may charge high commissions or offer poor rates. To avoid this, exchange currency at your bank or use local ATMs that offer competitive rates to minimize transaction costs.
Cash Only Restaurants (Medium Risk) - A few restaurants and cafés in tourist-heavy areas, like the Market Square (Kauppatori), may try to convince visitors that they only accept cash while they actually accept cards. To protect yourself, check the payment options before ordering and look for cards stickers at the entrance.
Fake Charity Collectors (Low Risk) - In busy places like the Esplanadi, you might encounter individuals guilting tourists into donating to fake charities, often wearing misleading clothing or claiming they represent orphanages. Protect yourself by not engaging and verifying any charity's legitimacy through official channels before donating.
Souvenir Pricing Trick (Medium Risk) - In markets such as the Hakaniemi Market, some vendors may inflate prices for European or American tourists while offering lower prices to locals for similar items. Stay vigilant by researching average prices for different souvenirs beforehand and don't hesitate to negotiate.
Public Transport Ticket Scams (High Risk) - While riding the tram, some individuals may approach you pretending to check tickets but actually aim to sell you counterfeit tickets. Always purchase your ticket from official vending machines or ticket sales points at tram stops and validate it before boarding to avoid penalties.
Currency Exchange Overcharging (Medium Risk) - Money exchange kiosks around tourist hotspots, including the Helsinki Central Station, may charge high commissions or offer poor rates. To avoid this, exchange currency at your bank or use local ATMs that offer competitive rates to minimize transaction costs.
Scam Types and General Tips
Complete Guide to Scam Types
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
Yes, the metro is a bit pricey (around €3.20 for a single ride), and regular public transportation isn't too cheap either. But honestly, more and more people are just walking or taking the bus!
Most folks don't realize it, but in Europe, there are generally no ticket inspectors on the metro, which means you can occasionally travel paper-free. However, if one does appear, be prepared – a fine for riding without a ticket can be around €80!
🚨 Don't even think about littering—it’s a big no-no! Finns really care about keeping their surroundings clean. (In general, this "trash-free" attitude is something you'll find everywhere in the world, and it’s great!)
🌲 Foraging mushrooms is strictly forbidden on public lands (even if you're in the middle of the woods). My Finnish friends completely avoid this as well.
🚿 Be mindful of the quiet hours after 10 PM! If you’re in an apartment building (and not in a house), you’d best make sure you finish all of your noise-making activities by then! 🛁
🚴♂️ Pedestrian paths and bike paths are highly separated, so be aware of the traffic laws: pedestrians walk on certain sidewalks, cyclists on dedicated paths, and cars on their own roads.
On a side note, I’ve opted not to discuss the social scene around alcohol and smoking in public spots. The noise factor on the streets can be quite different from what you'd expect elsewhere.
Everything I mentioned? It's crucial to abide by these rules while you're here. In Finland, they are enforced quite strictly! Civilization! 🇫🇮❤️ »