The best bars and cafés Finland

Timetable

Most cafés open at 7 a.m. for breakfast and generally close between 1 and 2 a.m. in the larger cities. In Helsinki, most bars are open from 11am. Some, however, like Liberty or Death or the karaoke bars, don't open until 4 or even 6pm. They generally close around midnight on weekdays and around 2am on Friday and Saturday nights.

Budget & Tips

Tipping. In Finland, tipping is not compulsory as service is included in the bill. However, there's nothing to stop you leaving something extra if you wish. Less customary than in France, Finns rarely leave anything.

Be aware, however, that alcohol is generally quite expensive: a glass of wine averages €11 and a cocktail around €15. Pubs often have a happy hour between 5pm and 7pm.

Age restrictions

The sale of alcohol to minors is prohibited.

Kids

Children are welcome everywhere, including in restaurants. They just need to be accompanied by an adult.

Smokers

With a very anti-smoking policy, smoking has been banned in bars and restaurants throughout the country since 2007.

Tourist traps

There's nothing to report on this front in Finland, and there's nothing particularly touristy about it. On the other hand, it's often a bad sign if the establishment has touts, so beware of quality.