Car Rental in Tampere

Where to drive

• Explore the beautiful Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi lakes directly around Tampere, with numerous scenic viewpoints and small villages. A drive around the lakes can take a few hours to a full day, depending on stops.
• Visit the historic town of Hämeenlinna, home to the medieval Häme Castle, approximately 75 km (around 1 hour drive) south of Tampere.
• Discover the stunning natural beauty of Helvetinjärvi National Park, about 90 km (around 1.5 hours drive) north of Tampere, perfect for hiking and enjoying wilderness. The roads leading there are well-maintained.
• Take a day trip to the charming wooden town of Rauma, a UNESCO World Heritage site, approximately 140 km (around 2 hours drive) west of Tampere.
• Drive to the capital, Helsinki, approximately 175 km (around 2 hours drive) south, for a city visit or to connect with international flights from Helsinki-Vantaa Airport.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Finland, you will generally need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, especially if your license is not in English or a Nordic language. The minimum age for renting is typically 20 or 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories. A driving experience of at least one year is usually required.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Tampere vary significantly by car class and season. Economy cars might start from around 30-40 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from 70-150 EUR or more. Summer months (June-August) typically see the highest prices due to increased demand, with winter being generally more affordable, though prices can spike around holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Finland, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on main roads, and 120 km/h on motorways (reduced in winter). Headlights must be on at all times, day or night. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint system.

Parking

In Tampere, parking in the city center is mostly paid. Look for parking signs indicating payment methods, which often include mobile apps, parking meters accepting coins or cards, or pay-and-display tickets. Outside the very core, you can find some free parking zones or designated parking areas at shopping centers, though these may have time limits. Always check local signage carefully.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol and diesel) is widely available throughout Tampere and Finland. Most petrol stations are self-service and accept major credit cards. Some smaller, rural stations might be automated and require a card with a PIN. Fuel prices are comparable to other Western European countries and are displayed per liter. Electric vehicle charging stations are becoming more common, especially in urban areas and along main routes.

Which car to choose

For city driving and exploring the immediate Tampere region, a compact or economy car is sufficient, easy to maneuver and park. If you plan extensive road trips, especially to more remote areas or during winter, an SUV with higher ground clearance and good winter tires (mandatory in winter) would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Automatic transmission is common and recommended for ease of driving, particularly if you are not accustomed to manual gears.

Frequently asked questions