Finland is a land of stunning landscapes and unique experiences, attracting travelers from all over the globe. It’s consistently the happiest country in the world. But even when we told people we were visiting, they asked “Why?” Each month offers something special, showcasing the country’s seasonal beauty and cultural festivities. While I would personally argue that the best time to visit Finland is in winter, each season has its own perks.
Every month in Finland, from the icy wonder of winter to the vibrant colors of autumn, has its charm. The weather shifts dramatically throughout the year, influencing local traditions and available activities. Knowing what to expect will help you make the most of your visit.
You’ll learn about the highlights of each month, tips for planning your visit, and answers to common questions. Get ready to discover the beauty and adventure waiting for you in Finland!
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Weather Considerations Throughout the Year
Finland experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique weather and activities. Winter, from November to April, is characterized by snowy landscapes, making it a winter wonderland. Average temperatures range from -10°C to 5°C, (14 to 41°F) perfect for snow activities like skiing and viewing the Northern Lights. It’s important to note that daytime is quite limited during winter.
Spring, particularly from April to May, sees milder temperatures between 0°C and 10°C (32 to 50°F). This season marks the start of the melting snow and the return of longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring national parks.
Summer, between June and August, brings average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 23°C (54° to 74°F). This is a peak season for tourists, with the Finnish summer offering plenty of daylight hours for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring Finnish culture.
Autumn, from September to October, is famous for its vibrant Ruska colors. While the weather can be unpredictable, with average temperatures cooling down from summer, it remains an enjoyable time to see Finland’s natural beauty. Finnish sauna culture is a year-round phenomenon, from staying warm in the winter to relaxing during the summer months- sauna is always a good idea!
So you see, there’s really no bad time to visit Finland (remember, travel is travel) but knowing about each month can help you plan your trip for maximum efficiency.
January: Experiencing Winter Wonderland and Northern Lights
January is the heart of winter in Finland, offering a true winter wonderland experience. The average temperature in Southern Finland hovers around -6°C (21°F), while in the northern regions, it can drop to -14°C (6°F). This is the coldest month, perfect for enjoying snowy landscapes and the magical time of the long night skies. This is the time we visited and we were very happy with our trip but we prepared well.
One of the top attractions in January is the chance to see the Northern Lights, especially in the northern regions. Winter in Lapland is an incredible sight. This is also a great time for outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding in Finland’s national parks. Dog sledding through snow-covered trees in the countryside was a breathtaking experience.
January is a time of festive Finnish culture, with events like the Rovaniemi Snow Festival showcasing impressive ice and snow sculptures. For a comfortable visit, dress in layers and be prepared for cold weather. With proper preparation, you’ll embrace January’s enchanting night skies and snowy scenery fully.

February: Enjoying Winter Sports and Festivals
February in Finland is a magical time for winter enthusiasts. You’ll also find a lot fewer crowds since peak winter time is December. Average temperatures range from -6°C to -14°C, (7° to 21°) making it perfect for enjoying snowy landscapes. This month is ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, especially in the northern regions and national parks.
One of February’s highlights is the spectacular Northern Lights, best viewed in the night skies of Finnish Lapland. The season also brings events like the Arctic Art Festival, where visitors can admire magnificent snow and ice sculptures. It’s home to the International Snow Sculpture Competition! This is an excellent time to explore Helsinki’s cultural scene in Southern Finland, as indoor activities thrive during the colder months.
Be sure to dress warmly in layers to stay comfortable when engaging in outdoor activities. With abundant snow and longer hours of daylight compared to January, February is a fantastic month to experience Finland’s winter wonderland.

March: Transitioning into Spring and Ice Fishing
March in Finland is a fascinating time as it marks the transition from winter to spring. It’s considered shoulder season in Finland. The temperatures range from -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F) in the northern regions and slightly warmer in Southern Finland. It’s a magical time when snowy landscapes begin to melt, but winter activities are still in full swing.
Ice fishing is a popular outdoor adventure during March. Visitors can enjoy this traditional Finnish activity on the many frozen lakes. The national parks are also ideal for enjoying the final days of winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing. Don’t miss the vibrant northern lights that dance across the night skies, especially in the northern regions.
One special event in March is the Easter celebrations, which offer a glimpse into Finnish culture through various traditions and festivities. Children dress up as witches and go door to door with branches in exchange for sweets and coins (similar to an American Halloween). A tip for visiting in March is to dress in layers to stay comfortable as temperatures fluctuate between chilly winter mornings and slightly warmer afternoons.
April: Embracing the Early Signs of Spring
April in Finland is a time when the early signs of spring begin to emerge, especially in Southern Finland. The average temperature ranges from 0 to 7°C (32 to 45°F), gradually warming as the month progresses. As the snow melts, you can explore national parks and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking.
One of the highlights of April is the increasing daylight hours, with around 13 to 16 hours of sunlight, perfect for enjoying the burgeoning Finnish culture and nature. A special event to consider is Walpurgis Night on April 30th, marking the beginning of spring with festivities, parades, and student celebrations.
Wear layers when visiting Finland in April, as the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional snow showers. If you’re doing outdoor activities, ensure you have waterproof shoes on. Embrace both the late winter landscapes and the advent of spring during this transitional period.

May: Witnessing Nature’s Revival and Outdoor Activities
May is a great time to visit Finland as nature comes alive after a long winter. The average temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C, (41° to 59° F), making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. With extended daylight hours, visitors can explore more.
One major highlight in May is the beautiful display of wildflowers and the lush green landscapes in national parks like Nuuksio and Koli. These parks offer perfect settings for hiking and wildlife watching. In Helsinki, join the seasonal festivals celebrating Finnish culture, such as Vappu, a lively May Day celebration.
You’ll have long daylight hours to explore the region. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket when exploring outside to keep warm. It’s the start of the summer months and an ideal time to visit.
June: Exploring the Midnight Sun and Midsummer Celebrations
June in Finland is the first full month of the summer season. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes, especially in the Northern regions, thanks to the Midnight Sun. This natural phenomenon provides nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in national parks and exploring Finnish culture at local festivals.
Average temperatures in June range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventure. Southern Finland tends to be warmer, making it perfect for exploring tourist attractions in cities like Helsinki. The Midsummer celebrations, particularly around the summer solstice (June 21), are a highlight of Finnish summer, they feature bonfires, folk music, and dances.
July: Enjoying Warmth and Maritime Adventures
With average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59° to 77°F), July is the warmest month, and has plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The Finnish summer is characterized by long daylight hours, often called “white nights,” when the sun barely sets, providing extended time for exploration.
The Baltic Sea coast and Finland’s numerous lakes are perfect for boating and swimming. Helsinki, the capital, offers vibrant cultural experiences and lively festivals such as Helsinki Pride and the Pori Jazz Festival, which showcase Finnish culture and music. There’s also the 10-day Naantali Music Festival (also known as the Sleepyhead Day Festival) at the end of the month.
A great tip for visiting Finland in July is to pack light clothing for the warm weather and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Booking accommodations early is advisable as July is a peak season with many tourists looking to experience the Nordic country’s beauty.
August: Festivals and the Last Hurrahs of Summer
August is the last full month of the Finnish summer, with warm temperatures and vibrant events. It’s a popular time to visit Finland. Average temperatures range from 13°C to 20°C, making it a great time for outdoor activities in national parks like Nuuksio and Koli. The long hours of daylight allow extended exploration of nature.
Festival season is in full swing, with events such as the Helsinki Festival and Flow Festival drawing crowds for music, art, and culture. The Night of the Arts in Helsinki is particularly special, offering various cultural experiences throughout the city. Attending these events provides a glimpse into Finnish culture and creativity.
Be sure to pack both summer and light autumn clothes, as temperatures can vary, especially in the northern regions. Embrace the outdoor adventure opportunities, and enjoy the last hurrahs of the Finnish summer.

September: Autumn Colors and Cultural Events
September in Finland is a beautiful time as the autumn equinox ushers in vibrant fall colors. The average temperature ranges from 8°C to 15°C (46° to 59°F)in Southern Finland, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities. Don’t miss the stunning display of autumn foliage in the national parks, perfect for hiking and photography.
September is also rich in Finnish culture with events like the Helsinki Design Week, which showcases the best in Finnish and Nordic design. Another highlight is the Turku Europe Forum, offering cultural and political discussions. (It’s also a great excuse to explore Turku for a day).
The weather can change throughout the day, so it’s good to be prepared for both cooler mornings and warmer afternoons. Also, daylight hours start decreasing, but there’s still plenty of sunlight to explore tourist attractions before the nights lengthen.
October: Experiencing the Crispness of Fall and Local Markets
October in Finland offers a wonderful time to enjoy the crispness of fall, which is known for its colorful foliage and cooler weather. Average temperatures in Southern Finland hover around 5°C to 10°C (41° to 50°F), making it a little chilly, but ideal for outdoor activities like hiking in national parks. Northern regions begin experiencing colder weather, with the chance to see the Northern Lights as nights grow longer.
Top attractions in October include visiting local markets, where you can sample Finnish delicacies like berries and mushrooms. The autumn equinox brings opportunities to enjoy shorter daylight hours with stunning fall landscapes. In Helsinki, the Baltic Herring Market is a special event where locals gather to celebrate and purchase seasonal fish.
Don’t forget a raincoat or umbrella, as October can be rainy!

November: Preparing for Winter and Cozy Indoor Activities
In November, Finland fully transitions into the winter season. The average temperatures in southern Finland range from -1°C to 4°C (30° to 40° F). Days are shorter, with limited daylight hours, making it cozy for indoor activities. Many locals and tourists savor Finnish culture by enjoying sauna sessions and indulging in hearty Finnish cuisine.
As winter progresses, the northern regions may already experience the first glimpses of the Northern Lights. November is an excellent time to visit museums and cultural centers, including the National Museum of Finland. As the snowy landscapes begin to form, outdoor adventurers can enjoy early winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing.
November hosts the Helsinki Book Fair, a popular cultural event celebrating literature.
December: Celebrating Christmas Traditions in Finland
December is one of the peak times to visit Finland, as the country transforms into a winter wonderland filled with Christmas traditions. The average temperature in Southern Finland hovers around -5°C to 0°C (23° to 32° F), while the northern regions can experience more frigid conditions (plus more wind!). During the winter months, you can witness the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the night skies, especially in the north.
Top things to see include the famous Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, where you can meet Santa himself. Be prepared for long lines at Santa’s Village! December is the perfect time for winter outdoor activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding.
Special events in December include St. Lucia Day and Pikkujoulu, or “Little Christmas,” celebrated throughout Finland. These traditional events bring warmth and joy to the long winter nights.

Tips for Planning Your Visit Across the Seasons
When planning your visit to Finland, timing your trip according to the season can greatly enhance your experience. The best months for those interested in winter activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing are December to March. If you prefer warmer weather, then June and July are better for you.
If you’re eager to see the Northern Lights, head to the northern region of Lapland in winter. Remember, winter can be extremely cold, so dress in layers with thermal clothing and waterproof gear for comfort and safety.
Budget-savvy travelers should consider visiting during the off-season, in late autumn (October to November) and early spring (April to May). Less demand during these times means lower accommodation and flight prices. We visited in January, and while prices weren’t that much cheaper, there were NO crowds at Santa’s Village
Plan early, especially during peak winter periods, to ensure accommodations and tours.
Final Thoughts
Finland is a stunningly diverse destination that offers unique experiences year-round. Even if you can only visit during a certain time of the year, I hope this guide helps you plan some amazing adventures. Finland promises unforgettable adventures and memories no matter when you choose to explore its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture!
Save “Best Time to Visit Finland” for Later
Plan Your Trip with These Resources
Flights: Skyscanner or Google Flights
Accommodation: Booking.com and VRBO
Tours: GetYour Guide and Viator
Travel Insurance: World Nomads