Car Rental Helsinki
From lush forests and sparkling lakes to a spectacular coastline and streets lined with eye-catching architecture, car rental in Helsinki puts the greatest attractions of an intriguing city at your fingertips.
The capital of Finland has huge fortresses, public saunas and an array of fun activities to enjoy. Rent a car in Helsinki and you can explore the city and surrounding area at your own pace.
We have a number of rental car pick-up points conveniently located in Helsinki, including at the airport, so however you arrive you can get on the road smoothly and in style.
Simply choose from our wide range of vehicles, including spacious family-friendly holiday car rental options and luxury business choices. Find the one that’s perfect for your trip in Helsinki. Then reserve a car rental direct with us in advance, and you can be enjoying the scenic wonders of Helsinki in no time at all.
Helsinki Locations
A Quick Guide to Helsinki
Helsinki, also known as the ‘Daughter of the Baltic,’ is a shining example of Nordic spirit and one of the most northerly capital cities in Europe.
Laid back in atmosphere but with plenty of things to see and do, a third of its area is covered in green spaces - offering a tranquil escape – while numerous Helsinki attractions are within easy reach with a rental car.
Explore the Fortress of Suomenlinna
Surrounded by the sea on three sides, with hundreds of islands scattered just off the coastline, visitors to Helsinki are spoiled for choice when it comes to ferry destinations – but Suomenlinna is perhaps the most popular.
Constructed in the mid-1700s to protect the city, this mammoth bastion grew to become the biggest island fortress in the world. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it takes around 15 minutes to reach by ferry. The boat is an enjoyable experience itself and offers wonderful views of the city skyline from the water. Renting a car means you’re in control on your Helsinki trip.
Once you reach the fort’s six islands, connected by bridges, you can explore on foot. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, as there are many ideal spots to take in the breath-taking scenery. As you wander around, be sure you stop to admire the Suomenlinna church, which was founded in 1854 and doubles as a lighthouse.
Visit Korkeasaari Zoo
Dating right back to 1889, this is one of the world’s oldest zoos. Located on the island of Korkessari, here you can discover more than 150 animal species and 1,000 varieties of plants.
This wildlife wonder can be visited all year round and, for this reason, it specializes in animals that are used to extreme winters. Tigers, snow leopards, bears and forest reindeer are just a few of the famous residents.ite of historic significance is the Basilica de Santa Maria, an ornate Gothic church built on the foundations of a mosque constructed by Moorish settlers. Located in the east of the city center near the harbor, the church boasts an impressive collection of 15th century art and a stylish baroque interior.
Relax in a sauna
After a busy day of exploring Helsinki with your rental car you’ll want to sit down and relax before doing it all again the next day.
So what better place to unwind than in an authentic Finnish sauna? There are more than three million in this country, a significant number of which are in the capital city.
Some public saunas are open during both summer and winter, and during the colder season they are perfect for warming up.
A few of the most popular ones include Sauna Hermanni, Kotiharjun Sauna, Kaurilan Sauna and Löyly. Making a reservation is recommended, and private saunas are available in some cases.
Have fun at Linnanmäki
This much-loved theme park, which dates back to the 1950s, offers fun for the whole family, with shows, attractions and – of course – exciting rides.
Thrill-seekers will enjoy the white-knuckle roller coasters, including ‘Taiga’ – the highest and fastest in Finland – and its innovative virtual reality and 4D siblings. There are even seven traditional rides that have been here since the day the park first opened.
You’ll find Linnanmäki in the north of the city, with convenient parking nearby. With car rental in Helsinki you can explore all that this charming city has to offer, and find the further wonders of Finland beyond.
Driving In and Around Helsinki
Helsinki is a picturesque capital city that offers wonderful views of the glistening Baltic Sea. You can wind down the window as you drive along the coastline here, and breathe in the fresh sea air. Renting a car makes it easier to discover Helsinki.
Come off the E75 at Kirkkokatu and this road will take you all the way to Helsinki Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Take Route 51 on the west side of the city, meanwhile, and you can drive across the bridge to Lauttasaari, a wonderful island district with woodland, beaches and marinas in abundance. Following the 51 will take you further along Finland’s southern coastline, for a truly stunning road trip.
If you’re heading into the city center and need to explore on foot, there are a number of large parking lots available, and a variety of different parking zones. On weekends, some of these are free.
Cars are not allowed on many of the nearby islands, including the popular Suomenlinna. But you can park your rental car in Helsinki before boarding a ferry at Market Square. This can be easily reached via the E75.
Helsinki’s major roads ensure you are well connected to the rest of the country – ideal for a road trip. The E12 runs through the center of the city and can take you inland, before heading all the way across to Vaasa on the country’s west coast. The E75, meanwhile, continues right through the middle of the nation and can take you almost as far as Oulu in the heart of Finland.
Conditions are usually clear and pleasant in the summer, but be aware that in winter snow and ice are common on the roads, and extra care should be taken when driving – especially in rural areas.
