Information and tips for Erasmus students in Helsinki

Are you planning an Erasmus in Helsinki? The capital of Finland is an ideal destination for international students, as it combines excellent educational quality with a unique natural environment. With several prestigious universities, such as the University of Helsinki (Helsingin yliopisto) and the Aalto University (Aalto-yliopisto), the city welcomes hundreds of Erasmus students each year. Its blend of modernity, Scandinavian design, and green spaces make it a very attractive option. Furthermore, its location in Northern Europe allows one to travel easily to other cities such as Tallinn, Stockholm or St. Petersburg.

The cost of living in Helsinki is high compared to other European cities, but with good planning, it’s possible to stay within a reasonable budget. Transport is efficient and many people use bicycles, although the cold weather can make it difficult to use it in winter.

Discover everything Helsinki has to offer!

Cost of living in Helsinki, Finland

The cost of living in Helsinki depends on several factors, but with good planning, it's possible to stick to a reasonable budget. Adding up food, transportation, and entertainment costs, a student can expect to spend between 1.000-1.300 € per month, depending on your lifestyle.

The biggest monthly expense for students is usually accommodation. The prices of a room in an apartment vary between 300-600 € per month, depending on the location and amenities included. Residences are usually a more economical option for Erasmus students. Prices vary between 450-800 € per month, depending on the size of the room and the location of the residence.

Transport in Helsinki is efficient and well connected. Many students choose to use the bicycle in summer, but in winter public transport becomes the best option. There are usually possibilities of student discounts on monthly subscriptions, so you'll want to check if you qualify.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Helsinki

Going out in Helsinki as a student is relatively cheap. Why? Because entry to most clubs is very cheap (about €3-4) or even free. On the other hand, a type of party that international students usually attend are those that are held in student flats or residences.

The lively nightlife is mainly in the city centre, with popular venues among students such as Apollo Live Club, Restaurant Kaarle XII or The Patron Club & Lounge.

If you prefer quieter plans, the city offers many alternatives. You can walk around the Senate Square (Senaatintori), visit the island-fortress of Suomenlinna or relax on the Hietaranta beach in the summer months. In addition, Helsinki hosts festivals throughout the year, such as the Flow Festival, known for its indie and electronic music, or events such as the Night of the Arts (“Taiteiden Yö”), in which the city’s filled with free cultural events.

The Student Union (HYY) has more than 250 student associations, offering a variety of options: academic, political, cultural, sports, etc. You're sure to find something that interests you! Plus, university life in Helsinki includes traditions and events organised by the university and student organizations. Highlights include the opening carnival, the Independence Day procession, academic dinners, cultural events, excursions, and the sleigh race on Shrove Tuesday.

Culture and gastronomy in Helsinki, Finland

If you’re interested in history, Helsinki has several museums and attractions .One is Villa Hakasalmi (Hakasalmen huvila), where you can learn about the city's heritage in a 19th-century villa. You can also visit the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art (Nykytaiteen museo Kiasma), which offers innovative exhibitions.

If you prefer nature, you can't miss Helsinki’s Central Park (Helsingin Keskuspuisto), a huge green space ideal for hiking or skiing in winter. You can also take a ferry ride to the nearby islands to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

As for gastronomy, Helsinki offers several typical Finnish dishes. You have to try the "karjalanpiirakka" (rice dumpling with egg butter), the "lohikeitto" (salmon soup with potatoes and dill) or the"mustikkapiirakka" (blueberry pie).

There are affordable options for students, such as UniCafe, a university dining hall chain with affordable prices between €3 and €6.

Advantages and disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Helsinki

Doing an Erasmus in the Finnish capital is an enriching experience, but not without its challenges. Here we tell you the pros and cons.

Advantages

• Know the culture and kindness of the people of the Nordic city.
• You’ll find that even if it gets very cold, there are always amazing plans to make.
• Even if you don't know the official language, the people of Helsinki will be able to communicate with you in English without problems.
• Helsinki is a very safe and organised city, with an efficient transportation system and plenty of green areas to enjoy.
• If you like nature, Finland is the ideal country, with forests, lakes, and northern lights in winter.
• The educational quality is excellent, with prestigious universities and many research opportunities.

Disadvantages

• The weather in Helsinki can be challenging, as winters are long, dark and cold, with temperatures below zero for months.
• The cost of living is high compared to other Erasmus destinations, especially regarding food and leisure.
• The Finnish language is difficult to learn, although the majority of the population speaks English fluently.

Cheap student accommodation in Helsinki, Finland

Do you need accommodation in Helsinki and don't know how to find it? On our Erasmus Play platform you can compare different offers and find the best apartments, rooms, and residences for Erasmus students in Helsinki. Easily find the option that best suits your needs and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

FAQ about an Erasmus in Helsinki

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