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    Can you cycle on the pavement in Finland?

    Where cyclists may ride and the exception for young children.

    Answered at: Checked at:

    Short answer

    No. In Finland it is not allowed to cycle on pedestrian paths. Cyclists use bike lanes, shared paths for pedestrians and cyclists, or the road. Children under 12 may ride on pavements but must give unobstructed passage to pedestrians. Liikenneturva also reminds cyclists to ride on the right.

    Safety, Sustainable Tourism and Accessibility

    Why

    1. Liikenneturva states that in Finland it is not allowed to cycle on pedestrian paths.
    2. According to Liikenneturva, children under 12 may ride on pavements but must give way to pedestrians.
    3. Liikenneturva says the Road Traffic Act that entered into force on 1 June 2020 introduced new signs, including the bicycle street sign.

    Details

    Shared paths have a blue sign showing both a pedestrian and a bicycle. On a pavement with only the pedestrian sign, walk your bike.

    Tip

    Rent city bikes or e-scooters only after checking the local rules in the operator's app. The same road rules apply to them.

    What may differ

    In winter, bike lanes may be covered with snow, and studded tyres are common among local cyclists.

    Common misconception

    In Finland bikes can use any pavement as long as they ride slowly.

    What actually happens

    Adults may not cycle on pedestrian-only pavements, even slowly.

    People also ask

    • Is a bike helmet required in Finland?
    • Can you ride an e-scooter on the pavement in Finland?
    • Which side do cyclists ride on in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Traffic rules can change, so check Liikenneturva and the Finnish police before you travel.

    Safety, Sustainable Tourism and Accessibility
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