Helsinki
Helsinki is the capital of Finland. Most of the foreign hitchhikers enter the country here, either by boat from Tallinn of by plane to the international airport - which is not actually in Helsinki, but in Vantaa.
Helsinki is a nice place and worth staying for a couple of nights. Its a rather small city with about half a million inhabitants and quite relaxed atmosphere.
Going to Porvoo, Kotka, Russian border
Take the metro to the Mellunmäki station, then take buses 56K, 86 or 87 to the Kuussillantie stop. The bus driver may not know the name of the stop, but if you mention that it is the Esso station before the bridge, he can then alert you when it is time to get off. On the corner a few metres toward the bridge from the McDonald's and the Esso, you'll see cars entering the junction of Ring 3 and highway 7. Stand right before the no pedestrian sign. It is essential to use a sign reading "Porvoo", making sure it is visible to cars coming from both the left and the right. This is a low-traffic area, expect to wait an hour or so. If you go further than to Porvoo, there is a rest stop halfway between Helsinki and Porvoo, so ask to drop you there. All there is is toilets and a café, so it's most efficient in the morning time. From there, find a ride at least to Kotka.
Going to Turku
Take bus 18 from the west side of the Central Railway Station to the Niemenmäki stop. Going a little further from the bus stop and cross to the other side of the street. You'll find the entry ramp onto the motorway. I recommend standing right in front of the large side with a graphic symbolizing the motorway, as then you'll be seen by cars coming from both directions, and there's sufficient room for a car to stop. Use a sign, not everyone taking this route is going all the way to Turku.
