Before you can fully enjoy your Europe trip, there's the arduous task of taking long-haul flights, sometimes with multiple layovers. But Finnair has just made it a little easier for us with the inaugural launch of a new direct flight from Singapore to Finland’s capital city, Helsinki.

Finnair will be flying the A350 XWB (extra wide body) aircraft between the two cities, making it the first European airline to do so. The airline is also the first to provide the shortest connection from Singapore to Europe, with a flight time of approximately 11 and a half hours. When you arrive in Helsinki Airport, you can get to more than 70 other European cities like Paris, London and Amsterdam in under 35 minutes via transit flights. 

On-board, expect a uniquely Nordic flight experience through indigenous in-flight meal selections, a Northern Lights inspired mood lighting, and a spacious cabin. Helsinki will now be served by five direct flights a week. Return trips cost from $869 for Economy class seats and from $3,120 for Business class seats.