Helsinki International Airport – HEL Vantaa

Otherwise known as Helsinki - Vantaa Airport, Helsinki International Airport is Finland's most important international airport. Situated in the city of Vantaa, the airport serves as the gateway to the greater Helsinki area. Due to Helsinki Airport's geographical location, it is a popular transfer point between Asia and Europe. The airport began its temporary operation in 1952 when it was opened for that year's Summer Olympics. Regular flight operations started in 1959 until the airport in Helsinki, Finland grew to be the largest airport in the country.

Best Time to Visit

Serving as the main hub for Finnair, Helsinki Airport is divided into two terminals. Terminal 1 serves as a domestic terminal and has a total of 15 boarding gates, gates 1 to 15 while terminal 2 serves as an international terminal with boarding gates 16 to 55. The airport has also three runways. HEL Airport offers non-stop flights to 162 destinations in over 50 countries around the world. Some nearby cities from the airport are Pakila and Hermanni.

What to Do & Area Attractions

There are several Helsinki airport hotels within the area of the airport. Hilton Helsinki Airport is an onsite hotel that connects it to the airport through a covered walkway. Passengers with connecting flights will find the hotel convenient while taking a short comfort break before checking in at the airport. Another hotel that travelers can check-in is Glo Hotel Helsinki Airport, a 3 star hotel located just a few minute-walk from the HEL Airport.