So, you’ve been accepted to an Erasmus exchange semester in Finland - congratulations! Whether you’re heading to Helsinki, Turku, Tampere, or another vibrant Finnish city, you’re in for a unique experience full of saunas, snowy adventures, cozy cafés, and high-quality education.
But before you board that plane, here’s everything you should know to settle in smoothly, especially when it comes to housing, lifestyle, and surviving the Finnish winter.
🧳 1. What to Pack (and What Not To)
✅ Essentials: Warm clothes (layering is key!)
Winter jacket (waterproof & windproof)
Good boots with grip
Adapters (Finland uses EU plug type C/F, 230V)
❌ Leave Behind:
Too many formal clothes (Finnish style = casual)
🧼 3. Everyday Essentials: Groceries & Household Items
Groceries: Lidl, S-Market, K-Market, Prisma
Household Items: Tokmanni, Clas Ohlson, IKEA
Pharmacy/Health: Apteekki (for meds), Prisma/Tokmanni (for hygiene)
🕒 Stores are open 7 days a week, but Sundays have shorter hours.
🚌 4. Getting Around: Public Transport in Finland
Finland has excellent public transport, especially in student cities:
Helsinki: HSL (metro, buses, trams, trains)
Tampere: Nysse (buses + tram)
Turku: Föli (buses)
💡 Student discounts are available—ask your host university for access.
🎓 5. What’s Studying in Finland Like?
Flexible and informal academic culture
Professors often go by first names
Focus on independent study and critical thinking
Group work is common
Attendance is important, but not always mandatory
🗣️ Most courses for Erasmus students are in English, and the level is high - prepare for real work, not just a vacation.
☕ 6. Lifestyle & Culture Tips
Finns may seem quiet, but they’re friendly and helpful
It’s normal to sit in silence on public transport 😄
Try the sauna!
Drinking culture exists, but it’s low-pressure
Don’t miss: kanelipulla (cinnamon buns), ice swimming, northern lights (Lapland trips)
🥶 7. Surviving the Winter Like a Local
Layer, layer, layer: thermal base, sweater, waterproof outer
Invest in a reflector—pedestrians are hard to spot in the dark
Learn to enjoy the darkness: candles, cozy cafés, sauna nights
💡 Pro tip: Finland is the world’s happiest country, even in winter—it’s all about embracing the season.
🌍 8. Making Friends & Having Fun
Join student unions & Erasmus networks (like ESN)
Attend orientation week events
Try sports clubs, language exchanges, or hobby courses
Say “yes” to sauna nights and winter adventures
Final Words
Studying in Finland as an Erasmus student is more than just ticking academic boxes—it’s about new experiences, independence, and embracing the Nordic way of life. From your first snowstorm to your first sauna, Finland will surprise and challenge you in the best way.
And remember—your apartment is your sanctuary. Whether you’re sharing with friends or renting a quiet furnished studio, make it feel like home.
Looking for a furnished apartment for your Erasmus semester?
👉 Explore flexible, move-in ready options at flatta.fi