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The Best Time to Visit Finland in 2024 | When to Go

The Best Time to Visit Finland in 2024 | When to Go

What's the best time to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland is during the summer months of June to August, when temperatures average around 65°F (18°C), allowing for extended daylight hours for outdoor exploration of its forests, fjords, and lakes. Summer in Finland offers ideal conditions for fishing, camping, biking, and water sports, alongside a picturesque landscape of blooming flora and blue skies.

Finland, nestled in Northern Europe and bordered by Sweden, Norway, and Russia, is a wonderland of unspoiled nature, bustling cities, rich cultural attractions, and thrilling outdoor activities.

It’s a destination that caters to a wide array of interests, whether you’re drawn to its majestic forests and fjords, keen to dive into Finnish culture and traditions, or simply yearning for the tranquility of its natural landscapes.

If you’re considering a trip to this Nordic gem, you might be pondering the best time to visit Finland. Don’t worry, we’ve got all the insights you need. We’ll show you the best times to visit based on various factors like cost, crowd size, and weather, helping you identify the perfect period for your specific travel needs.

In addition to timing, we’ll highlight some of Finland’s must-see spots, suggest a range of activities to enjoy across the country, and answer common questions you might have about planning your Finnish adventure. Let us be your guide!

The Overall Best Time to Visit Finland

Aerial image of a stone observation tower protruding up from a green forest and flying a Finnish flag

nblx/Shutterstock

The overall best time to visit Finland is in the summer months from June to August, when you’ll experience the warmest temperatures, which is crucial in an overall cold country like Finland.

Temperatures hover around 65 degrees Fahrenheit (or 18 degrees Celsius), and the days are the longest during these months. This allows for plenty of time outdoors to explore Finland’s forests and fjords, as well as its many lakes.

t’s also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, camping, biking, and arctic water sports. This time is also when the landscape is the most picturesque; you’ll see blossoming flowers and bright blue skies pretty much wherever you go.

Plus, there are quite a few special events and festivals that happen during these months, so plan your trip around any particular ones you may be interested in, such as:

  • Midnight Sun Film Festival
  • Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival
  • Pori Jazz Festival
  • Ilosaarirock (Rock)
  • Kaustinen Folk Music Festival
  • Seinäjoen Tangomarkkinat (Tango)

Cheapest Time to Visit Finland

Reindeer pulling a wooden sled through a snow-covered forest with smiling children in the background

BlueOrange Studio/Shutterstock

The cheapest time to visit Finland is in November, which marks the shoulder season between summer and winter. During this time, there are fewer visitors after the summer sunshine begins to wear off and before the winter holiday season begins.

November is an excellent time to go if you are looking to score deals on almost everything, from flights to accommodation to excursions.

Because the market demand is low, it’s easier to get deals and discounts across the country, especially if you look on the right websites, such as Skyscanner and Booking.com. Plus, it’s an excellent time to go if you want to catch the Northern Lights.

Weather-wise, temperatures in November can range from 28 to 34 degrees Fahrenheit (or -2 to 1 degree Celsius). And since November is the start of winter in Finland, you should expect some snowfall as well as rain, so pack accordingly and be prepared with slush-friendly shoes.

Least Busy Time to Visit Finland

Tram and vehicles pass a photographer standing on the street during the least busy time to visit Finland, as seen from a low-exposure image

Grisha Bruev/Shutterstock

The least busy time to visit Finland is between October and early December, which isn’t as warm and pleasant but also isn’t cold or snowy enough for wintertime adventures.

You are left with fewer options, but it’s still a great time to visit, especially if you want to avoid the tourist crowds at all costs.

Plus, you’ll still find plenty of events, festivals, and celebrations in Finland during this time. So if you’re interested in getting a better understanding of Finnish culture, this shoulder season is still an optimal time to visit the country.

Finally, the least busy time is optimal for couples and solo travelers who are looking for a more relaxing time away from the bustle of summertime tourists.

Worst Time to Visit Finland

Night photo of the Santa Clause Village in Rovaniemi in Lapland, pictured during the winter, the worst time to visit Finland

Winter night view of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi in Lapland in Finland/Smelov/Shutterstock

The worst time to visit Finland falls in November, during which time the weather is in a transitional phase – it’s cold, but not yet cold enough for winter sports or festive holiday activities.

The environment tends to be rainy and slushy, making outdoor exploration less enjoyable. Additionally, November is a quiet period for local businesses and attractions; many shops, restaurants, and activities either reduce their hours or close entirely.

For those looking to save money, avoid large crowds, or hoping to catch a glimpse of the spectacular Aurora Borealis, it’s best to steer clear of the peak summer months from June to August.

This period sees the highest influx of tourists, which not only means more crowded attractions but also higher prices for accommodations and activities. Even worse, the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights are significantly lower during these months due to the extended daylight hours.

Conversely, if you’re enticed by the prospect of experiencing Finland’s famously long days, with almost endless sunlight, the winter months of December to February may not be the best choice for you.

These months are characterized by very short days and long nights.

While this period offers its own unique charm with snowy landscapes and winter festivities, the limited daylight hours aren’t ideal for those seeking to experience the midnight sun and the vibrant outdoor life associated with Finland’s summer season.

Finland by Month: Climate & Activities

Bridge to the Olavinlinna Olofsborg, located in Savonlinna, during the best time to go to Finland

Vitaly Titov/Shutterstock

Still unsure about the best time to visit Finland? Take a look at our summary of the weather and climate by month below:

January

January in Finland is very cold, with temperatures typically ranging from -10 to -1°F (-23 to -18°C) in the south and even colder in the north.

This month is perfect for experiencing the magical Northern Lights, enjoying winter sports like skiing in Lapland, and participating in traditional Finnish sauna followed by an invigorating dip in an ice hole.

February

February continues with frigid weather, ideal for attending the Sami cultural festivals in Lapland, ice fishing on frozen lakes, and visiting the unique SnowCastle of Kemi with its snow hotel, ice restaurant, and chapel.

March

As winter slowly transitions to spring, temperatures in Finland range from -6 to 20°F (-21 to -6°C). March is great for late-season skiing, witnessing the start of the ice melting, and enjoying the longer daylight hours for outdoor activities.

April

Spring temperatures in April range from 18 to 39°F (-8 to 4°C). It’s an ideal time for exploring the awakening nature on hikes, visiting the cities of Helsinki and Turku for cultural experiences, and enjoying Easter celebrations with Finnish traditions.

May

May sees warmer temperatures from 32 to 59°F (0 to 15°C). Explore the Finnish archipelago, enjoy the blooming landscapes, and experience the Vappu festival on May 1st, a significant spring celebration with picnics and outdoor parties.

June

Summer arrives with temperatures between 46 to 68°F (8 to 20°C). June offers opportunities for enjoying the Midnight Sun, especially in Lapland, attending traditional Midsummer (Juhannus) celebrations with bonfires, and exploring Finland’s national parks in their lush summer greenery.

July

July maintains mild temperatures from 54 to 72°F (12 to 22°C). It’s a popular month for visiting the coastal cities and engaging in water activities, attending music festivals, and exploring the vibrant Finnish countryside.

August

Temperatures in August range from 52 to 70°F (11 to 21°C). Visit the Helsinki Festival for cultural events, enjoy the crayfish season with traditional parties, and explore the Lakeland region with its thousands of lakes.

September

As fall begins, temperatures range from 41 to 59°F (5 to 15°C). September is perfect for berry and mushroom picking in the forests, enjoying the autumn foliage, and visiting the annual Helsinki Design Week.

October

October sees cooler temperatures from 32 to 48°F (0 to 9°C). Enjoy the autumn colors in national parks like Nuuksio, visit the charming old town of Porvoo, and experience the beginning of the Northern Lights season in northern Finland.

November

Fall temperatures in November range from 23 to 37°F (-5 to 3°C). This month is ideal for visiting the cities for their cultural offerings, enjoying traditional Finnish cuisine, and preparing for the upcoming Christmas season with markets and festivities.

December

Winter brings colder temperatures ranging from 14 to 30°F (-10 to -1°C). December is festive with Christmas celebrations, skiing and winter sports in the north, and experiencing the unique Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, right at the Arctic Circle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gorgeous view of the Northern Lights over Hamnoy in Finland

Piotr Grzeslak/Shutterstock

Still have questions about picking the best time to visit Finland? We’ve got you covered with some answers below:

What month is the best to see Northern Lights in Finland?

The ideal time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is typically between November and March. This is when you have the highest chance of seeing them, as there are long periods of darkness and more clear nights.

How many days are enough for Finland?

Depending on your Finland bucket list, you can explore Finland within five to seven days. However, if you want to get a taste of everything Finland offers while going slower, we recommend spending at least two weeks there.

When is the best month to visit Helsinki?

Helsinki, the most populous city and capital of Finland, is a favorite destination for many travelers to Finland. The best month to visit for city exploration is between May and September, when the days are exceptionally long and the weather is nice and warm.

If you want to avoid many crowds, going in May and September (as opposed to June through August) is ideal. However, if you want the ultimate best weather and longest days possible, and don’t mind crowds or higher expenses, opt for the prime summer months.

What is a typical Finnish breakfast?

A typical, traditional Finnish breakfast consists of slat-cured salmon with bread and herb cheese, rice porridge, or traditional pies and pastries.

Is Finland worth visiting in the winter?

Yes! Finland is worth visiting in the winter for various reasons. It’s the best time to go if you’d like to partake in wintertime activities such as skin, snowshoeing, sledding, and more.

Plus, you’ll get to experience lots of holiday celebrations and events if you go during December. Finally, the winter’s darkness offers the best chance to catch the Aurora Borealis.

Can I get around Finland without a car?

Yes, it is possible to get around Finland without a car. Although a car is convenient, Finland also has excellent public transportation, including buses, trains, and trams. You can use these to get around both cities and rural areas.

What are the most popular activities in Finland?

Some of the most popular activities in Finland include exploring the landscape and nature, visiting national parks and museums, taking part in winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing, and experiencing the cultural side of Finland.

Other popular activities include visiting lakeside cafes, taking a cruise on the Baltic Sea, and exploring the nightlife in Helsinki.

How long are the days in Finland during the summer?

The daytime in Finland during the summer months of June, July, and August are up to 19 hours long! This wide time frame leaves you with plenty of opportunities to explore the city, go on hikes, and enjoy the sunshine in any way you like!

Alternatively, the country experiences days with only 6 hours of sunlight during the winter. It’s important to be aware of and prepared for this if you plan on visiting in the winter.

So, What’s the Best Time to Visit Finland?

Ultimately, the best time to visit Finland largely depends on what you hope to do while you’re there. The summer offers sunny skies and long days, while the winter offers a snowy, picturesque landscape and dark, clear nights.

In any case, there’s much to see and do, so any time you choose to visit has something to offer. So what are you waiting for — book your trip to Finland today!