Helsinki Airport Train Guide
Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Helsinki Airport (HEL) is directly connected to Helsinki city centre through an efficient commuter train network operating frequently throughout the day. Trains are one of the fastest, cheapest, and most reliable ways to travel between the airport and downtown Helsinki.
The airport train station is located between Terminals 1 and 2 on the arrivals level, offering direct access to the I and P Ring Rail Line trains connecting the airport with Helsinki Central Station in around 30 minutes.
Travel Time
Trains connect Helsinki Airport with Helsinki Central Station quickly and efficiently.
Around 30 minutes
Train Frequency
Commuter trains run approximately every 10 minutes during peak hours.
Frequent daily departures
Station Location
The airport train station is located on the arrivals level between both terminals.
2–5 minutes from arrivals
Airport Train Lines
| Train Line | Direction | Main Stops | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Train Clockwise Route |
Via Huopalahti | Helsinki – Tikkurila – Airport – Myyrmäki – Helsinki | Popular route into city centre |
| P Train Counterclockwise Route |
Via Tikkurila | Helsinki – Myyrmäki – Airport – Tikkurila – Helsinki | Alternative city centre route |
Travel Times & Frequency
Airport to City Centre
30 min
Average journey duration
Train Frequency
10 min
Peak-hour departures
Airport Station Access
2–5 min
Walking time from terminal
Helsinki Central Station
Platforms
Airport trains normally depart from platforms 16–18 at Helsinki Central Railway Station.
Main Hub
Helsinki Central Station connects trains, metro, trams, buses, and long-distance rail services.
Best For
Ideal for travellers staying in downtown Helsinki hotels and tourist areas.
Tikkurila Railway Station
| Feature | Information | Useful For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance from Airport | Approximately 8 km | Regional travel | Easy airport connections |
| Long-Distance Trains | Most long-distance services stop here | Travelling across Finland | Important transfer station |
| International Rail | Connections towards Russia previously operated here | Historic international routes | Check latest rail availability |
| Commuter Services | Frequent regional trains | Suburban travel | Excellent connectivity |
Tickets & Fares
| Ticket Type | Price | Purchase Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Ticket | €4.10 | HSL mobile app | Most convenient option |
| HSL Card | €4.10 | Travel card | Good for regular transport use |
| Ticket Machine | €4.10 | Airport stations | Easy self-service purchase |
| Bus Driver Purchase | €6.00 | On board buses | More expensive option |
Where to Buy Tickets
HSL Ticket Machines
Located at airport train stations and bus terminals.
Mobile App
The HSL app is one of the easiest ways to buy airport train tickets digitally.
Retail Stores
Tickets are also sold at Alepa, R-kiosks, WH Smith, and tourist information desks.
Travel Cards & Unlimited Transport
| Travel Card | Main Benefits | Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSL Card | Reduced fares on public transport | Metro, buses, trams & trains | Frequent city transport users |
| Helsinki Card REGION | Unlimited transport access | Zones ABC including airport | Tourists visiting Helsinki region |
| Regional Access | Airport included | Espoo, Vantaa & Helsinki | Multi-day visitors |
Long-Distance & Regional Trains
Finnish Cities
Long-distance trains connect Helsinki region with cities such as Tampere, Lahti, and many other Finnish destinations.
Tikkurila Connections
Most long-distance rail services stop at Tikkurila Railway Station close to the airport.
Easy Transfers
Airport passengers can transfer smoothly between commuter and national train services.