Car Rental at Kittilä Airport: Everything You Need to Know

Yes, car rental at Kittilä Airport is available directly at the terminal. We operate an official Hertz rental point serving both Kittilä Airport and Levi, so you can pick up a car immediately after landing and drive to your accommodation in about 15 minutes. Bookings are handled through the Hertz online system or by phone at +358 20 555 2530.

Whether you are flying in for a ski holiday, a Northern Lights trip, or a summer adventure in Finnish Lapland, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Below, we answer the most common questions travellers have about car hire at Kittilä, driving conditions in Lapland, and how to keep costs down.

Which Car Rental Companies Operate at Kittilä Airport?

We operate the Hertz rental point at Kittilä Airport, making it straightforward to collect a car as soon as you arrive. The pickup process is quick: after you land, you can head to the rental desk inside the terminal, complete your paperwork, and drive off within minutes.

According to Finavia’s Kittilä Airport page, the airport is located about 5 km from the centre of Kittilä, with Levi just 15 km away and Ylläs around 35 km away. The airport receives scheduled flights from major European cities as well as multiple daily connections from Helsinki, so car hire services at Kittilä are in high demand during peak season.

To book, visit the Hertz website or call +358 20 555 2530. You can also return your vehicle at our Safari House at Myllyjoentie 4, 99130 Levi, which is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00. If you want to check flight schedules before planning your pickup, Finavia’s Kittilä flights page lists current arrival and departure times.

What Should You Know About Driving From Kittilä to Levi?

The drive from Kittilä Airport to Levi takes roughly 15 minutes along a well-maintained road. The route is simple and clearly signposted, making it manageable even for first-time visitors to Lapland. However, driving conditions change significantly between seasons, and winter requires extra attention.

Winter Driving Essentials

All rental cars in Finland come equipped with winter tyres, which are mandatory by law during the cold months. Roads are regularly ploughed and gritted, but you should still expect packed snow and occasional ice on the surface. Drive at a steady, moderate speed, leave generous braking distances, and avoid sudden steering inputs. Darkness is another factor: in the deepest winter months, Lapland receives only a few hours of twilight, so keep your headlights on at all times.

Watch for Reindeer

Reindeer roam freely across Lapland and frequently wander onto roads, especially at dawn and dusk. They are unpredictable and may freeze in your headlights or suddenly dart across the road. If you spot one reindeer, slow down immediately because there are almost always more nearby. Staying alert on the road between Kittilä and Levi is essential, even though the distance is short.

For a broader overview of transport options and arrival logistics, take a look at our guide on how to get to Levi.

Do You Need a Rental Car in Levi, or Are There Alternatives?

A rental car is not strictly necessary if you plan to stay within Levi village, where most hotels, restaurants, and ski slopes are within walking distance. However, having your own vehicle opens up Lapland in ways that public transport and taxis simply cannot match.

With a car rental in Levi, Finland becomes far more accessible. You can chase the Northern Lights away from village light pollution, drive to remote frozen lakes for ice fishing, or make day trips to nearby national parks and fell areas. Spontaneous detours are part of the magic of Lapland, and a car makes them possible without waiting for scheduled transfers.

Alternatives do exist. Local bus services connect some destinations, and taxi transfers from the airport are available. Some hotels also arrange shuttle services. But during high season, taxis can be scarce, and bus schedules may not align with your plans. If you value flexibility, especially for evening aurora hunts or early morning excursions, a rental car is the most practical choice.

For a detailed look at what to do once you arrive, our Levi travel guide covers activities, tips, and the best times to visit.

How Can You Save Money on Kittilä Airport Car Rentals?

The most effective way to save on car rental at Kittilä Airport is to book well in advance, particularly if you are travelling during the winter high season (November through March) or the busy Christmas and New Year period. Availability shrinks quickly, and last-minute bookings tend to cost more.

Here are practical tips to keep your car hire costs manageable:

Book early. Reserving your vehicle several weeks or even months ahead typically secures better availability and rates through the Hertz booking system.
Choose the right vehicle size. A compact car is often sufficient for the Kittilä to Levi route and local trips. Only upgrade to a larger SUV if you genuinely need the extra space or ground clearance for remote roads.
Check your insurance coverage. Your travel insurance or credit card may already include rental car protection. Verify this before purchasing duplicate coverage at the desk.
Confirm your driving licence validity. According to Traficom, a driving licence issued in an EU or EEA member state is valid in Finland within its validity period. Finland is also party to the Geneva and Vienna road traffic conventions alongside around 110 other countries. If you hold a licence from outside the EU or EEA, check your specific situation on the Traficom website before you travel to avoid surprises at the rental desk.
Return on time. Late returns can incur additional charges, so plan your schedule around your flight departure and the rental office hours.

Prices for car hire at Kittilä are managed through the Hertz booking system, so the best way to compare options is to check availability online or call +358 20 555 2530 directly.

Book Your Car Rental With Kinos Safaris

We at Kinos Safaris have been helping travellers explore Lapland for over 20 years. As the official Hertz point at Kittilä Airport and Levi, we make picking up and returning your rental car simple and hassle-free. Our Safari House at Myllyjoentie 4, 99130 Levi, is open daily from 9:00 to 17:00, right in the heart of the village.

Ready to secure your vehicle? Visit our car rental page for booking details, or call us at +358 20 555 2530. Book ahead, especially during peak season, and start your Lapland adventure the moment you land.