Available Countries

Bordering Countries of Finland

by · Published · Updated

Finland shares land borders with three countries: Sweden to the west, Norway to the northwest, and Russia to the east.

  1. Sweden

  • Religion: Predominantly Christianity (Lutheran)
  • Official Language: Swedish
  • Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

Country Overview:

Sweden, Finland’s western neighbor, is a Scandinavian country known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. It is a constitutional monarchy with a stable political system and a high standard of living. Sweden’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, services, and technology. Major landmarks include the Stockholm archipelago, Gamla Stan (Old Town) in Stockholm, and the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi.

Major Landmarks:

  • Stockholm archipelago
  • Gamla Stan (Old Town)
  • Icehotel
  • Vasa Museum

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: Finland and Sweden are connected by several road crossings, including the Tornio-Haparanda border crossing. The E4 highway links Helsinki in Finland to Stockholm in Sweden.
  • Railways: There are direct train connections between major cities in Finland and Sweden, including Helsinki and Stockholm.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the Finland-Sweden border is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. In Sweden, travelers can access Stockholm Arlanda Airport.

Visa Requirement:

Finland and Sweden are both members of the Schengen Area, allowing for visa-free travel between the two countries for citizens of Schengen Area member states. However, travelers from non-Schengen countries may require visas, and it is advisable to check the latest visa regulations before traveling.

  1. Norway

  • Religion: Predominantly Christianity (Lutheran)
  • Official Language: Norwegian
  • Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)

Country Overview:

Norway, Finland’s northwestern neighbor, is renowned for its stunning fjords, mountains, and northern lights. It is a constitutional monarchy with a stable political system and a high standard of living. Norway’s economy is largely driven by oil and gas production, seafood exports, and tourism. Major landmarks include the Geirangerfjord, the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, and the Lofoten Islands.

Major Landmarks:

  • Geirangerfjord
  • Viking Ship Museum
  • Lofoten Islands
  • Holmenkollen Ski Jump

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: Finland and Norway are connected by several road crossings, including the Kilpisjärvi-Karasjok border crossing. The E8 highway links Helsinki in Finland to Tromsø in Norway.
  • Railways: There are direct train connections between major cities in Finland and Norway, including Helsinki and Oslo.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the Finland-Norway border is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. In Norway, travelers can access Oslo Gardermoen Airport.

Visa Requirement:

Finland and Norway are both members of the Schengen Area, allowing for visa-free travel between the two countries for citizens of Schengen Area member states. However, travelers from non-Schengen countries may require visas, and it is advisable to check the latest visa regulations before traveling.

  1. Russia

  • Religion: Predominantly Christianity (Russian Orthodox)
  • Official Language: Russian
  • Currency: Russian Ruble (RUB)

Country Overview:

Russia, Finland’s eastern neighbor, is the largest country in the world, spanning across two continents with diverse landscapes and cultures. It is a federal semi-presidential republic with a complex political system and significant geopolitical influence. Russia’s economy is diverse, with key sectors including energy, manufacturing, and technology. Major landmarks include the Red Square and the Kremlin in Moscow, the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, and Lake Baikal in Siberia.

Major Landmarks:

  • Red Square and Kremlin
  • Hermitage Museum
  • Lake Baikal
  • Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Transportation Infrastructure:

  • Roads: Finland and Russia are connected by several road crossings, including the Vaalimaa-Torfyanovka border crossing. The E18 highway links Helsinki in Finland to Saint Petersburg in Russia.
  • Railways: There are direct train connections between major cities in Finland and Russia, including Helsinki and Saint Petersburg.
  • Airports: The nearest major airport to the Finland-Russia border is Helsinki-Vantaa Airport in Finland. In Russia, travelers can access Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg.

Visa Requirement:

Finland and Russia have visa-free arrangements for citizens of certain countries for short-term visits. However, travelers from other countries may require visas, and it is advisable to check the latest visa regulations before traveling.