Car rental at Helsinki Airport

HEL Airport Car Rental — Helsinki Airport

See real-time prices from 16 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.

Compare 16 providers Quick guide (2 min)
LocationAirport
Providers16
Price tipBook 2–4 wks ahead
Min. ageUsually 21+
✅ Compare 16 options ⚡ Instant results 🧾 Transparent pricing ⭐ Flexible booking

Quick answer: At Helsinki Airport you can compare rental cars from 16 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely — not just cheaply.

Best priceBook 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and lower rates.
Zero dramaChoose "full-to-full" fuel and film the car at pickup.
DepositHave a credit card in the driver's name ready — that's where most people get caught out.
Search rentals Quick guide Key info FAQ Nearby Map

About Renting a Car at Helsinki Airport

Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is Finland's largest and busiest airport with over 20 million passengers per year, located in Vantaa approximately 18 km north of central Helsinki. With as many as 16 rental companies on site, Scandinavia's broadest selection of rental car options is offered directly in the arrivals hall. The airport is a hub for SAS, Finnair, and Nordic airlines with direct connections to the whole world.

From the airport, you can reach central Helsinki in approximately 18 km (25 min) via Highway 3 or Ring III. Porvoo is located approximately 60 km to the east (45 min) via Ring III and E18. Lahti can be reached in approximately 100 km (1 hour) to the north via Highway 4 – a popular option for ski trips to Messilä.

The car rental desks are located on the ground floor of the arrivals hall – follow the signs for 'Car Rental' directly after baggage claim. Book online in advance to avoid queues and secure better prices, especially during Christmas, New Year, and Midsummer. Ring III (Kehä III) allows for fast driving around Helsinki without passing through the center – perfect for trips towards Turku or Tampere.

How many car rental companies are at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport? There are 16 car rental companies at HEL, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, and several local operators. Compare prices on hyrbilar.se.

Where do I find the car rental desk at Helsinki Airport? The car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall on the ground floor of Terminal 2. Follow the 'Car Rental' signs after you collect your luggage.

How long does it take to drive from the airport to central Helsinki? Under normal traffic conditions, it takes approximately 25 minutes (18 km) via Highway 3. During rush hours, it can take 40–50 minutes.

We compare prices from all major providers at Helsinki Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Your 2-Minute Guide to Renting at Helsinki Airport

🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms

  • Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
  • Extra driver: can cost extra — check before booking.
  • Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
Pro tip: Cheapest rate + expensive terms = an expensive rental in disguise.

🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents

  • Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
  • Passport or national ID
  • Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
A valid license is accepted in most of Finland. Check if an IDP is needed.

📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup

  • Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
  • Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
  • Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
60 seconds now can save 6 weeks of email disputes.

Rental Companies at Helsinki Airport

Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).

Autounion
AddCar
Alamo
FiRENT
Hertz
Avis
Budget
National
GreenMotion
Enterprise
Rese
Keddy
Europcar
Scandia Rent
SIXT
Thrifty

Essential Info for Renting at Helsinki Airport

Practical answers and tips before you book.

✅ Quick Answers ▼

At Helsinki Airport you can compare rentals from 16 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.

  • Book 2–4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
  • Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
  • Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in Finland ▼

In Finland you drive on the Right side.

  • Urban speed limit: 50 km/h
  • Rural roads: 80 km/h
  • Motorway: 120 km/h
  • Alcohol limit: 0,5 ‰
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼

Parking is often paid in cities.

Road tolls: Var withveten if road tollsna, especially in cities.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Rental at Helsinki Airport

Which rental companies are available at Helsinki Airport?▼
You can compare 16 rental companies at Helsinki Airport on SmartCarRental. Availability varies by season and dates, so the best way to see current options is to search with your travel dates.
Do I need an international driving permit in Finland?▼
Requirements depend on your home country. EU, US and UK licenses are generally accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license isn't in Latin script.
→ Read more in our guide
Is there an age limit for renting a car at Helsinki Airport?▼
The minimum age to rent in Finland is typically 21 years. Drivers under 25 often pay an additional young driver surcharge.
→ Read more in our guide
What are the traffic rules in Finland?▼
In Finland you drive on the Right side. Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on motorways.
→ Read more in our guide
What do I need to bring for pickup?▼
When collecting your car at Helsinki Airport you'll typically need: 1) A valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), 2) Passport or national ID, and 3) A credit card in the driver's name for the security deposit.
→ Read more in our guide
How does the fuel policy work?▼
Most providers at Helsinki Airport use a "full-to-full" policy: you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. This is typically the simplest and cheapest option.
→ Read more in our guide
When is it cheapest to rent a car at Helsinki Airport?▼
Generally, booking 2–4 weeks in advance, choosing a mid-week pickup, and avoiding peak season gives you the lowest prices.
→ Read more in our guide

15-Day Weather Forecast for Helsinki

Car Rental Guides

InsuranceWhich one should you pick?
Pickup ChecklistBefore you drive off
Save Money7 smart tips

Other Rental Locations Near Helsinki Airport

Rent a Car Near Helsinki Airport

Other pickup points within driving distance.

2 km
Vantaa CenterCity Center · 7 rental companies
3 km
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5 km
Vantaa Tikkurila Train StationCity Center · 2 rental companies
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Vantaa KaivokselaCity Center · 2 rental companies
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Helsinki KonalaCity Center · 2 rental companies

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Check prices from 16 providers at Helsinki Airport — pick your dates and see what's available.

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