Currency & Payment

Finland uses the euro (EUR, €), divided into 100 cents. It is one of the most cashless societies in the world, and cards and mobile payments work almost everywhere, so you rarely need cash. In everyday situations a card is far more useful than notes and coins.

Because Finland uses the euro and is so cashless, you rarely need to exchange money. If you already have euros there is nothing to change. If you do want cash, withdrawing from an ATM usually gives reasonable rates. Airport and city exchange bureaus such as Forex exist, but a card is more useful than cash here.

Cards are accepted virtually everywhere in Finland, and contactless is the standard way to pay. Visa and Mastercard are taken almost universally. Many shops, cafes and even some attractions are card-only or cashless, so a working card is essential rather than just a convenience.

ATMs in Finland are widely branded Otto. and are found in cities, stations and shopping areas. They are less numerous than before because of the cashless economy, but still easy to find. Watch out for foreign-card fees, and always decline home-currency conversion (DCC) to get the better rate.

Mobile payments are very common in Finland. The local app MobilePay is widely used by residents, while visitors can generally pay with Apple Pay or Google Pay wherever contactless cards are accepted, which is almost everywhere. Add your card to your phone before you travel for the smoothest experience.

Visitors resident outside the EU may be able to claim a VAT refund (Tax Free shopping) on eligible goods taken home, subject to a minimum purchase amount and other conditions. Ask for a Tax Free form in participating shops and get it validated at the airport before departure. Rules and thresholds change, so confirm the current process with official sources.