The weather and climate of Finland


Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, majestic Northern Lights and endless summer days, Finland is a popular tourist destination all year round. However, it is important to note that the seasons in Finland vary drastically in terms of weather and temperature, which can affect your travel experience.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of Finland’s four seasons and their climatic characteristics, so you can be better prepared to plan your trip to the country at any time of the year.

Winter in Finland

Winter in Finland takes place between December and February, although temperatures are also low in November and March.

During this season of the year, temperatures are usually very low, and snow is almost permanent.

Temperatures are often below zero degrees Celsius, reaching as low as 20 degrees below zero. The further north you are, the lower the temperatures will be.

As you can see, in winter it is necessary to wear warm clothes and be well prepared for the low temperatures in the country during those months.

Winter is also a period with little light if we compare it with the rest of the seasons. In the south, the sun rises in the middle of the morning and sets in the early afternoon, leaving only a few hours of light per day. In the north, there are some weeks when the sun doesn’t even come out.

Temperatures in Lapland in winter

Lapland is the northernmost region of the country, so its temperatures are the lowest throughout the year.

Winter usually takes place between October and April, that is, it lasts for about 7 months. In addition, between November and January, the days are very short, not seeing the sun for a few weeks in December.

Winter temperatures in Lapland are usually between -20 and -30 degrees Celsius.

In addition, the snow is frequent and abundant. The soils are covered with snow in November and continue like this until April or May.

The weather in spring

In spring, temperatures rise and the snow begins to disappear. In addition, the trees and plants begin to bloom and create beautiful landscapes. The weather, although warmer than in winter, is still cool.

The season begins at the end of March and lasts until the beginning of summer in June. In the northernmost part of Finland, spring begins a month later, at the end of April.

Summer in Finland

June, July and August are the summer months in Finland, with July being the hottest of all.

The average temperature in summer is about 20 degrees in the south of the country and about 15 in the north.

It is the brightest season since the number of hours of sunlight is very high. The sun rises very early in the morning and does not disappear until late at night. In northern Finland, there are weeks when the sun doesn’t even set.

Temperature in Helsinki in summer

Helsinki, the capital of the country, is located in the most temperate zone. However, the temperature is negative during the winter months.

The average temperature during the summer in Helsinki is around 20 degrees Celsius, a very pleasant temperature and ideal for visiting the capital of Finland.

Rainfall, although not very frequent, can also appear during the summer months.

The sun, as we have already said, rises very early and sets at night. In Helsinki, there are about 9 and a half hours of sunlight a day during June and July.

Also, if you travel during the summer, you may consider taking a bath in the Helsinki sea. Although during the winter it freezes, in July and August the water temperature is between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.

Finnish autumn

Ruska time, autumn in Finland

Fall begins in late August or early September. During this season, the Finnish ruska takes place, the time of year when the plants and leaves of the trees take on the orange tones typical of autumn.

The autumn weather in Finland is cool and rain and wind are common. In addition, the daylight hours begin to decrease.

What is your favourite season of the year to travel to Finland? Let us know in the comments. In addition, we invite you to share this article with your family and friends using the icons that you will find just below.


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