Helena

When planning a trip to the United States, be sure to visit Helena — the picturesque capital of Montana, nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. This city, imbued with the spirit of the gold rush, offers tourists a unique combination of rich history and access to pristine nature. You can get here by air via the local airport or by ground transport, enjoying the breathtaking views of the American West.

The most convenient way to reach the region is to fly into Helena Airport (HLN), which receives regular flights and is located just a few minutes' drive from the centre. This compact aviation hub ensures stable connections with the country's major transfer points.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighbouring cities such as Butte (about 75 km) or Great Falls (approximately 116 km). Choosing one of these airports may offer a more flexible flight schedule, and the subsequent journey will allow you to immediately appreciate the beauty of the local landscapes.

There is no direct railway service to the city of Helena, and even nearby major cities like Butte and Great Falls do not have passenger stations. The nearest Amtrak train stop is in Shelby, located a significant distance to the north.

Due to complex logistics and the need for a long transfer by bus or car from the remote railway station, this mode of travel is considered the least convenient for tourists. Travellers are advised to prefer air travel or road transport to save time.

Bus services connect the state capital with neighbouring settlements, offering an affordable travel option. A popular route runs from the city of Butte: covering the distance of about 115 km will take just over 2 hours.

You can also arrive by scheduled bus from the city of Great Falls, located approximately 149 km away. The travel time in this case will be about 2.3 hours, which makes this type of transport a reliable alternative to a private car.

Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable ways to get to the city of Helena, allowing you to plan your schedule independently. The drive from the city of Butte will take only about 1.1 hours, during which you will cover 109 km on a high-quality highway.

The route from the city of Great Falls (distance 145 km) will require approximately 1.4 hours. Renting a car or booking a taxi will give you the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of Montana at a comfortable pace.

To ensure your journey to Helena goes as smoothly as possible and leaves only positive impressions, we have compiled several useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Belongings: The weather in the mountains is changeable, so dress in layers. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so a windbreaker or fleece jacket is mandatory.
2. Transport: Public transport is not widely developed. For freedom of movement and visiting natural attractions, it is strongly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having cash notes is useful for small purchases and tips.
4. Health and Safety: The city is calm and safe. In case of an emergency, dial 911.
5. Communication: The main language is English. Local residents are known for their hospitality and readiness to assist tourists.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to be polite and smile. In restaurants and taxis, tips of 15–20% of the bill amount are expected.
7. What to Avoid: Do not approach wild animals (deer, bears) in the vicinity of the city — this can be dangerous.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid domestic inconveniences and fully devote your time to exploring the rich heritage and natural beauties of Montana's capital.