Getting There & Away: Inari

Air Travel to Inari

Airports & Airlines

Ivalo Airport (IVL) serves as the closest airport to Inari, about 50 km (31 miles) south. It is Finland's northernmost airport.

Main Air Connections

Finnair operates daily flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) to Ivalo (IVL).
Norwegian Air Shuttle offers seasonal flights from Helsinki to Ivalo.
Other European airlines may offer seasonal direct charter flights to Ivalo during peak winter.

Flight Availability & Prices

Flight frequency and prices grow significantly during the winter high season (December-March).

Seasonal Trends

Direct flights from major global hubs are typically not available to Ivalo; connections usually happen through Helsinki.
Summer (July-August) sees moderate demand. Shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) usually have lower prices.
Booking well in advance, especially for winter travel, comes recommended. Check Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Facilities

Ivalo Airport is small but modern, with a café, small shop, car rental desks, baggage services, and free Wi-Fi. No lounges or extensive duty-free.

Airport Bus

The most common and cost-effective transfer. Operates by flight schedules, stopping at hotels in Inari, Saariselkä, and Ivalo. Journey to Inari takes 45-60 minutes.

Taxi & Rentals

Taxis are available outside the terminal, offering direct transport. Major car rental companies have desks; pre-booking is a strong recommendation, especially in winter.

Transfers from Ivalo Airport

Car Rental Details

Major car rental companies (e.g., Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Sixt) have desks at Ivalo Airport.
Pre-booking comes highly recommended, especially in winter.
Cars with winter tires and engine heaters are needed in winter. DiscoverCars: DiscoverCars.com
Explore flight options on Skyscanner.

Public Bus & Taxi Tips

The Airport Bus is a common and cost-effective transfer.
It operates according to flight schedules.
Taxis are the most expensive option but offer direct transport.
Pre-booking taxis might be advisable, especially for late arrivals.

Ivalo Airport Facilities

Passenger Services

The airport has a café/restaurant and a small shop for travelers.

Ground Transport Desks

Car rental desks are available, along with baggage services.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for passenger use.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

While air travel serves long distances, land transport is good for regional connections.

Getting to Inari by Land

No direct train to Inari. Closest station: Rovaniemi (330 km south). VR (Finnish Railways) operates overnight sleeper trains from Helsinki to Rovaniemi.
Buses are a main mode of inter-city transport. Matkahuolto is the national bus network.
Buses link Inari to Rovaniemi, Ivalo, Saariselkä. Regular services run Rovaniemi to Inari (4-5 hours).

Self-Driving Essentials

Driving offers flexibility for independent exploration.

Considerations for Drivers

Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit if license not in English, Finnish, or Swedish). Minimum age 18 (some rentals 21/25).
Roads are generally well-maintained. Winter roads are plowed but can be icy. Winter tires are a legal requirement Nov 1 - Mar 31.
Engine block heaters are common and needed for cold starts.

Road Conditions & Safety

Be aware of specific seasonal challenges and wildlife.

Driving Safety Tips

Winter driving calls for experience with snowy/icy conditions. Maintain safe distances, reduce speed, use headlights.
Reindeer and moose are common, especially on roads. They are a traffic hazard. Drive cautiously, notably at dawn and dusk.
Fuel stations are available in Ivalo and Inari village, but can be sparse in very remote areas.

Border Crossings

Inari sits relatively close to the Norwegian border.

Neighboring Country Access

Utsjoki and Nuorgam are the nearest border crossings to Norway (towards Tana Bru and Nesseby).
These are standard Schengen border crossings; a passport is necessary.
Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable for arrival to Inari; Inari sits inland. No ferry services or cruise ports.

Important Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are a requirement for all passengers.
Headlights must stay on at all times, day or night.

Speed limits are strictly enforced.
Free parking is generally available at attractions and accommodations.
Wildlife remains a hazard, especially on roads outside built-up areas.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures

Finland levies no specific exit fees or taxes on travelers departing the country.

Departure Process

For flights from Ivalo Airport (IVL), arrive typically 1-1.5 hours before departure for domestic flights.
For international connections via Helsinki, aim for 1.5-2 hours before departure.
Ivalo is a small airport, allowing for quick check-in and security. Check with your airline for specific recommendations.

Airport & Station Facilities

Facilities at Ivalo Airport and local bus stops are modest.

Amenities for Departing Travelers

Ivalo Airport has limited facilities, including a small café and shop.
The Inari bus stop is basic, offering a covered shelter. It does not have extensive facilities.
Standard security checks apply at the airport.

Public Buses

Inter-city long-distance buses (Matkahuolto) stop in the village, connecting to Ivalo, Rovaniemi, and other smaller villages.

Taxis

Taxis provide an useful option for private transport, especially for destinations not served by buses. Book by phone or ask your accommodation to call one.

Rental Cars

Car rental companies operate from Ivalo Airport. Pre-booking is important, especially for winter travel, to secure vehicles with appropriate tires.

Getting Around Inari

Walking & Cycling

Inari's compact size makes walking excellent for village exploration; cycling offers options for nearby trails in summer.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Inari village is small and very walkable. Most attractions are within easy walking distance.
Marked walking trails exist around the village and nearby wilderness areas.
Bicycle rentals may be available from accommodations or local tour operators in summer.

Specialized Transport

Beyond standard options, Inari has specialized transport for specific activities.

Unique Mobility

Boat taxis for Lake Inari are available during the ice-free season (June-Oct) for islands like Ukko.
Tour operators arrange their own bus transfers for organized excursions (Northern Lights tours, day trips). No hop-on-hop-off services.
Accessibility varies. Public buildings are generally accessible. Contact accommodations/tour operators for specific needs.

Rental Vehicle Options

Car Rentals

Major international companies operate from Ivalo Airport. Book in advance.

Motorcycles/Scooters

Not common or practical for touring Lapland, especially in winter. Limited availability in summer.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable for Finland. Snowmobiles are part of organized safaris.

Local Insight

Inari village does not have a metro or tram system. The main public transport consists of inter-city long-distance buses. Local travel within the immediate village area typically involves walking.

Getting There & Away