Car & Van Hire - Tampere

Tampere offers a great many attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking culture, history and natural beauty. As you venture through this vibrant city, be sure to visit its numerous museums, such as the Vapriikki Museum Centre, which houses several exhibitions, including the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame and the Tampere Mineral Museum.

For art enthusiasts, the Tampere Art Museum showcases Finnish and international art, while the Moomin Museum offers a delightful journey into the world of Tove Jansson's beloved Moomin characters. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Spy Museum, where they can delve into the intriguing world of espionage.

If you're travelling with children, you’ll want to pay a visit to Sarkanniemi Amusement Park, which offers thrilling rides and attractions, including an aquarium, a planetarium and a children's zoo. For more family fun, head to the Hatanpää Arboretum and Park, a beautiful green space that features a rose garden, a playground and scenic walking trails.

Tampere's culinary scene is diverse and mouth-watering. Sample traditional Finnish cuisine at local restaurants, or try the city's famous black sausage, a local delicacy.

Throughout the year, Tampere hosts numerous festivals and events, such as Tampere Film Festival, Tampere Jazz Happening and Tampere Theatre Festival. These events attract both local and international visitors, providing an excellent opportunity to experience Finnish culture and entertainment.

Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty of options in Tampere, from the bustling Koskikeskus and Tullintori shopping centres to charming boutiques and design shops scattered throughout the city. Discover Finnish design and unique souvenirs to take home at the Laukontori Market, a lively outdoor market held during the warmer months.

Nature lovers can explore the stunning Pyynikki Park and Observation Tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding forests and lakes. In the winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. During the summer months, take advantage of the region’s numerous beaches and lakes, such as Lake Näsijärvi and Lake Pyhäjärvi, which provide excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.

Tampere's city centre is compact and relatively easy to navigate. However, it's important to be aware of pedestrian zones, one-way streets, and traffic restrictions. Use a reliable GPS device or smartphone navigation app to guide you through the city and help you find your way to various attractions and parking areas. This will also help avoid mishaps like going the wrong way down a one-way street.

Parking in Tampere is well-organised and generally easy to find. You'll come across on-street parking, parking garages, and parking lots throughout the city. On-street parking mostly operates on a pay-and-display system, with varying hourly rates depending on the zone. Parking garages and lots typically charge hourly or daily rates, and some may even offer discounted prices for longer stays. When booking accommodation, check whether your hotel provides guest parking, as this can save you both time and money.

Familiarise yourself with local traffic regulations before you start driving in Tampere. For example, you must use dipped headlights at all times, even during daylight hours. Also, pay attention to local speed limits, which are usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on main roads, and 120 km/h on motorways.

In Finland, it's essential to give way to trams and buses and to be cautious around cyclists and pedestrians, especially in the city centre. When approaching a roundabout, vehicles already on the roundabout have the right of way. Make sure you have a valid driving licence, vehicle registration documents, and insurance papers with you when driving, as Finnish authorities may request to see these.

Tampere can experience heavy snowfall and icy conditions during winter months. If you're visiting Tampere in winter, you should be prepared for these conditions. Winter tyres are mandatory in Finland between December and February, so naturally, more careful driving is necessary during this period. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and be mindful of reduced visibility due to snow or fog.

When driving in icy or snowy conditions, it's advisable to keep an ice scraper, snow brush, and a small shovel in your car. These tools will help you clear snow and ice from your vehicle, ensuring better visibility and safer driving. Remember to also pack a warm blanket, extra clothing, and a fully charged mobile phone in case of an emergency.

With car or van hire in Tampere, you can venture beyond the city limits to discover the beauty of Finland's countryside. The surrounding region boasts beautiful lakes, forests and national parks, perfect for day trips and outdoor adventures. Be mindful of local wildlife when driving in rural areas, as deer and other animals may cross roads unexpectedly.