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The Best Time to Visit Finland

By Condé Nast Traveller

The best time to visit Finland can vary because every season in the Nordic country brings a different kind of charm. If you're seeking sunlight, the sun barely sets in the summers, whereas winters are your best bet at catching a glimpse of the northern lights dancing in the skies. In autumn, Finland is bathed in shades of crimson and gold, and the springtime is temperate and green. The best time to visit Finland depends on what lighting excites you the most: 24/7 daylight , or the neon green aurora borealis against the night skies? Here’s a quick guide to the best time to visit Finland.

• What is the best time to visit Finland? • What is the best time to visit Finland for the northern lights? • What is the best time to visit Finland for snow? • Temperature in Finland throughout the year • Plan your trip

What is the best time to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland is in the summer, between June to August , when the temperature ranges between 53°F and 73°C. The days are unusually long in the summer, with 20 to 22 hours of sunlight a day. Museums, castles , and other tourist attractions are open for longer during this time of the year, allowing you to explore long after the usual opening hours. Since winters last for nearly seven months in Finland, summer is also the best time to explore Finland’s 40 national parks and many nature hikes. This is also the season for festivals in Finland; for example. the 10-day Naantali Music Festival , which features classical music artists from around the world, takes place in June.

Shoulder season in Finland spans from April to May, which is to say: springtime. The temperatures usually hover between 32°F and 50°F. There are fewer crowds and nightly rates at hotels take a dip. Speaking of shoulder season, visit Finland in autumn, between September to November, when the temperature fluctuates between 41°F and 59°F, and the country's trees are plentiful shades of yellow and crimson. As it goes with shoulder season, hotels and airfare tend to be cheaper, and there are fewer tourists.

Winter in Finland, which is from December to March, is not for the faint of heart, with temperatures ranging between 14°F and 41°F and sunlight present only three to four hours a day. But this might also the most rewarding time to visit Finland because winter is northern lights season.

What is the best time to visit Finland for the northern lights?

Finland is one of the best countries in Europe where you can chase the northern lights. The northern lights are visible all year round, but they are seen only once the sun sets. Since there's minimal nighttime during the summer in Finland, the best time to spot the aurora borealis is during the winter season, from December to March, when days are actually just nights.

The northern lights are easiest to spot when you’re away from the cities. The secret recipe for a great sighting is clear skies, low light pollution, and long winter nights. If you’re lucky, you may spot the aurora in Helsinki itself, but your best bet is to head north to Lapland, Kemi, Rovaniemi, Muonio, Ivalo, Kakslauttanen, Levi, or Saariselkä.

What is the best time to visit Finland for snow?

Even if you don’t get lucky with the northern lights, the good thing about visiting from December to March is that there are plenty of winter activities to do while you're in Finland. November marks the beginning of the snow season in Finland. Stay in an ice igloo; go skiing or dog sledging; race rally cars through the Arctic; and visit Santa Claus’ home in Rovaniemi.

How many days do I need for a trip to Finland?

The number of days totally depends on your itinerary. If you wish to just explore the capital of Helsinki and places close by, a four- or five-day trip is sufficient. However, if you wish to see Lapland and more, plan a 10-day trip.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India .

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The best times to visit Finland: from the northern lights to the midnight sun

May 16, 2022 • 10 min read

From the beautiful colors of fall to the wildflowers in spring, here's what's happening through the year in Finland © SakariLampola / Getty Images

Luring outdoor enthusiasts, design buffs, and curious souls wishing to crack the secrets behind its UN-bestowed accolade of the world’s happiest country , Finland is a destination whose tourist attractions are nearly as diverse as its climate. 

This tract of Scandinavia hosts the midnight sun in summer and the polar night in winter. Lapland , home of the indigenous Sámi people, is covered in snow for up to eight months a year, making it a snowsports destination par excellence. It’s also one of the best places in the world to observe the eerily beautiful phenomena of the aurora borealis, also known as the  northern lights . 

But in the southwest of the country, the Åland Archipelago has the distinction of being the sunniest spot in Northern Europe and so is a popular destination for beach holidays. Between these two regions are cosmopolitan cities, quaint villages, and pristine natural landscapes that shine at different times of the year. This month-by-month guide to climate and events can help you choose the best time for your visit to Finland. 

Head to Lapland in high season (December to April) for winter sports and icy adventuring

This is high season in Lapland, with the main draws being family visits to Santa Claus’ Village in Rovaniemi , sensational snow sports, reindeer racing, overnight stays in whimsical snow hotels, and the extraordinary phenomenon of the northern lights. Resorts and hotels are crowded and expensive around Christmas, during the four-day Easter break, and throughout the ski season, which kicks off in mid-February.

Between December and January the phenomenon of the polar night means that the sun never rises inside the Arctic Circle. In northern Lapland, the closest the sun gets to rising is around midday, when the horizon glows with rich colours for a few hours, bathing the landscape in an ethereal beauty.

The best months for skiing and other adventure sports are from February to April, when the sun has re-emerged after its two-month winter hibernation and the snowy expanses of countryside glisten and gleam.

In the south and center of the country, the winter days are short, with only six hours of light per day in December. Cross-country skiing is popular from February, when the days start to get longer. Ski resorts are crammed with Finns in March and April, particularly during Easter and on weekends – book in advance and expect high-season prices.

Ice and sleet make road conditions treacherous at this time of the year – be very careful if you’re driving.

Your chances of viewing the northern lights in Lapland are high during March and April. Down south, sightings are considerably less frequent. 

Make the most of white nights from May to mid-August

The summer season kicks off on May Day (May 1) and the midnight sun asserts itself from the end of May to the end of July, reducing night-time darkness to five or six hours at most. In Lapland’s far north, the sun doesn’t set at all from mid-May to late July. Daytime temperatures range between 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the south and 10–15°C (50–59°F) in Lapland; the warmest conditions are on the southwestern archipelago.

Finns make the most of these warm days and white nights, enjoying outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, and swimming during the day and winding down over drinks and long dinners into the wee small hours. There are music festivals to attend, scenic boat cruises to enjoy, and plenty of lakes in which to plunge after spending time in a steamy sauna.

July is the busiest month on the coast and around lakes, as this is when Finns tend to enjoy their annual holidays. Expect crowds and high hotel prices if you decide to join them.

Summer showers are relatively frequent in the interior during July and August, but conditions on the coast are drier, with clear skies and plentiful sunshine. 

Enjoy forest hikes and aurora spotting from mid-August to November

Summer days dwindle and autumn arrives alongside the ruska-aika (russeting), when Finnish forests are ablaze with colored leaves signalling the change of season. This is a marvellous time to go hiking or cycling – the colours turn in Lapland in September before putting on a show in the south a few weeks later.

The first snow falls in the north in late September and winter storms are common in November. Outside cities, many tourist attractions and hotels close from October until the start of summer.

In Lapland, the northern lights make regular appearances throughout October and November.

When can I see the northern lights?

The extraordinary natural phenomenon known as the aurora borealis, or northern lights, is best witnessed in Lapland, particularly north of the Arctic Circle. Here, the skies are clear of light pollution and is dark and cloudless for months on end, maximizing the chance of seeing these auroral displays in all of their swirling technicolor majesty. The spring and autumn months are the optimal viewing times, especially October, November, March, and early April. For more information, see the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s website .

It's really cold in January, perfect for arctic adventuring

It’s cold in January. Really cold. So those travelers who head this way are usually on a mission to experience an arctic adventure. In Lapland, you can overnight in a fairytale-like ice hotel hewn from the ice, embark on an action-packed snowmobile safari, or glide across moonlit landscapes on a sled pulled by huskies or reindeers. Go in the second half of the month, when the sun starts to reappear, but make sure you dress for temperatures as low as -35°C (-31°F).

February is the start of the ski season

The sun slowly starts to exert itself and as daylight hours increase so too do the number of cross-country skiers exploring the snow-covered countryside in the south of the country before heading north in March and April. The ski resorts across the country are busy from the middle of February and their accommodation prices stay high from this point until the end of the Easter holiday.

Keep an eye out for the northern lights in March 

Spring tends to arrive with a whimper rather than a bang, staying cold and often snowy. Days are getting longer, though, so it’s a great time to enjoy snow sports. Temperatures start to nudge above 0°C (32°F) in the north and Lapland’s famous reindeer racing season culminates in the Poro (Reindeer) Cup, held on the ice in Inari, the capital of Sámi culture. The spring equinox on March 21 is generally agreed to be the optimum time for viewing the northern lights. Temperatures can vary greatly between night and day – pack appropriately. Key event: Poro Cup (late March or early April).

April means the return of weak sunshine

The snow disappears in the south and the sunshine makes a welcome, albeit weak, reappearance. There’s still plenty of snow in the north, and Lapland’s ski resorts are often packed to the gills over the four-day Easter holiday. On the Saturday or Sunday before the Easter break, young Finnish children (especially girls) dress up as witches, carry willow twigs and visit houses in their neighborhoods, offering blessings in exchange for sweet treats. Key event:  Pääsiäinen (Easter).

Celebate spring and the midnight sun in May

One of Finland’s major national holidays, Vappu, is celebrated on May 1. Marking the end of winter, its inevitably boozy events tend to kick off on the night before, when bars and restaurants across the country are at their boisterous best. In Southern Finland, spring wildflowers bloom in meadows, birds migrate north, and hikers hit national park trails from late May. Helsinki and other cities are at their vibrant best. The midnight sun reigns over Lapland from mid-May, with melting snow and 24hr sunlight. Key event:  Vappu.

June is party time

Summer brings festivals and cultural events aplenty, including the biggest of them all, Juhannus (Midsummer). Celebrated on the Saturday between June 20 and 26, Finns welcome the midnight sun with lakeside bonfires, cooking, drinking and plenty of sauna action. Cities are quiet in the days around Juhannus, and many businesses close. Other events include Jutajaiset, a three-day celebration of Lapland’s folklore, and the five-day Midnight Sun Film Festival in the northern city of Sodankylä. Conditions in Lapland are muddy, so not ideal for outdoor adventures, but in the south hiking, cycling, and canoeing are popular activities from mid-June. Key events: Juhannus, Jutajaiset , Midnight Sun Film Festival.

There are popular festivals in July

When summer hits its stride the Finns hit the water. July is when most locals take their annual holidays, and accommodations on the coast or near lakes are fully booked months in advance. It’s also expensive. Temperatures range from 17°C (62°F) to 26°C (79°F) and this balmy weather brings with it mosquitos and midges, especially in Lapland – make sure you carry heavy-duty repellent. Popular cultural events include the world-famous Savonlinna Opera and Pori Jazz festivals. Key events: Savonlinna Opera Festival , Pori Jazz, Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, Ruisrock .

August means fewer people

The summer living continues to be easy. School holidays finish in the middle of the month and a blessed calm falls upon lakeside and coastal areas. Temperatures are benign and there are plenty of opportunities for crowd-free hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and fishing. Although most businesses stay open, the price of accommodations drop. In Lapland the mosquito threat lessens but the midnight sun disappears, heralding the first snowfalls on the fells. Key event: Helsinki Festival .

Fall colors are spectacular in September

Few Finnish sights are as splendiferous as the ruska-aika , when the advent of frost prompts foliage to turn gold, orange, bronze, yellow and crimson. Colors last for a couple of weeks in Lapland and then reoccur further south later in the month and into October, providing a wonderful backdrop when hiking or cycling in national parks. The autumn equinox occurs on September 21 and from then the days become shorter every day until Christmas. Most coastal sights and attractions close or adopt reduced hours from the middle of the month onwards. Key event: Sibelius Festival (Lahti).

October is one of the best times for the aurora borealis

The sun has disappeared in Lapland but compensation comes in the form of the northern lights. Your chances of seeing these in October are excellent, and accommodation and flight costs are cheaper than in the winter months because the ski season hasn’t yet kicked off. The rest of the country is easing into its winter hibernation, and many tourist attractions are closed.

November marks the start of snow sports

Winter storms, cold arctic winds, and shortened daylight hours make November a somewhat gloomy month, one that many travelers may wish to avoid. The official ski season kicks off late in November, although some resorts in Lapland have snow-covered slopes earlier in the month.

December is for visiting Santa

By December, most of the Finnish countryside is covered with snow and daylight hours are meagre or non-existent. The powdery-white landscape is picture-book pretty but too cold to explore on foot – take to skis or snowboard instead. Late in the month families descend on Lapland en masse, lured by the chance to meet Santa Claus in his official village in Rovaniemi – aim to arrive early in the month before Finnish school holidays begin if you are keen to beat the crowds.

Elsewhere, Finns keep themselves entertained by steaming in saunas, imbibing copious quantities of glögg (hot spiced mulled wine) and celebrating Itsenäisyyspäivä (Independence Day) on December 6 with processions, fireworks and concerts. Key event: Itsenäisyyspäivä, Joulu (Christmas).

You might also like: How to visit Finland on a budget (the only guide you’ll ever need)    Finnish-ing touches: all you need to know before your trip to Finland    9 incredible remote escapes in Europe for 2022   

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The best time to visit Finland

By Condé Nast Traveller

Every season in Finland brings a different kind of charm. The suns barely sets in the summers. Winters are your best bet at catching a glimpse of the northern lights dancing in the skies. In autumn, Finland is bathed in shades of crimson and gamboge. The best time to visit Finland depends on what lighting excites you the most – 24-7 daylight or the neon green aurora borealis against the night skies. Here’s a handy guide to the best time to visit Finland.

Jump to What is the best time to visit Finland? What is the best time to visit Finland for the northern lights? What is the best time to visit Finland for snow? What is the best time to visit Finland for snow? Temperature in Finland throughout the year

What is the best time to visit Finland?

The best time to visit Finland is in the summer between June to August , when the temperature ranges between 12°C and 23°C. The days are unusually long in the summer, with 20-22 hours of sunlight a day. Museums, castles and other tourist attractions are open for longer during this time of the year, allowing you to explore after hours. Since winters last for nearly seven months in Finland, this is the time to explore Finland’s 40 national parks and many nature hikes. Summer is also when Finland hosts many festivals. The 10-day Naantali Music Festival, which features classical music artists from around the world, takes place in June. Spring spans from April to May and is shoulder season. The temperatures usually hover between 0°C and 10°C. The crowds are lesser and hotel tariffs see a dip. If you wish to watch Finland bathed in yellow and crimson, visit in autumn between September to November, when the temperature fluctuates between 5°C and 15°C. This is also shoulder season, with lesser crowds and more affordable accommodation. Winter in Finland, which is from December to March is not for the faint of heart, with temperatures ranging between -10°C and 5°C and only three to four hours of sunlight. But also the most rewarding because this is the best time to catch the northern lights . It is also the best time for winter activities and to visit Santa Claus’ birthplace Rovaniemi.

What is the best time to visit Finland for the northern lights?

Finland is one of the best countries in Europe to chase the northern lights. The northern lights are visible all year round, but they are seen only once the sun sets. With summers extending into long days with sunlight, the winter months between December to March are the best time to spot them.

The lights are easiest to spot when you’re away from the cities. The secret recipe for a great sighting is clear skies, low light pollution and long winter nights. If you’re lucky, you may spot the aurora in Helsinki itself, but your best bet is to head north to Lapland, Kemi, Rovaniemi, Muonio, Ivalo, Kakslauttanen, Levi or Saariselkä.

What is the best time to visit Finland for snow?

Even if you don’t get lucky with the northern lights, the good thing about visiting from December to March is that there are plenty of winter activities to do – November marks the beginning of the snow season in Finland. Stay in an ice igloo, go skiing or dog sledging, race rally cars through the Arctic and visit Santa Claus’ home in Rovaniemi.

How many days do I need for a trip to Finland?

The number of days totally depends on your itinerary. If you wish to just explore the capital of Helsinki and places close by, a four to five day trip is sufficient. However, if you wish to see Lapland plan a 10-day trip.

Temperature in Finland throughout the year

April to May - 0°C and 10°C June to August - 12°C and 23°C September to November - 5°C and 15°C December to March - 10°C and 5°C

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Table of Contents

Finland is a green and peaceful country at the northern fringes of Europe worth exploring. It has been the happiest country on Earth for years in a row in relevant surveys. What is their secret? I decided to travel there to find out. Below you will find an awesome Finland itinerary for first-time visitors, so that you can also experience this livable place. 

Map with all sights mentioned in this Finland itinerary

Some practical information, when to visit finland.

The time that you visit Finland will depend on what you want to experience.

• For city sightseeing, May to September is an ideal period, as temperatures are pleasant and days are very long.
• If you want to explore green nature, May to September is a good period as well.
• Lapland in the north is fantastic during the colder months and you can also see the northern lights if you are lucky.

Flights to Finland | How to get to finland

The main gateway to Finland is Helsinki. Its airport is well connected. You can also enter by land from Sweden, Norway and Russia. You can also enter by ferry from Sweden and Tallinn , Estonia.

How many days to spend in Finland

5 days in Finland is a good time to introduce yourself to this beautiful and peaceful country. It allows you to see some of the most important cities, but also get a taste of stunning Finnish nature. Spending at least 2 weeks in Finland will allow you to venture deeper into nature and also head north to Finnish Lapland and other spectacular places.

Getting around Finland

By bus : There is an extensive bus network. We used Omnibus to get around and it was a very good experience.

By train : The Finnish railways connect many parts of Finland and also have a good reputation. You can book your train tickets online here .

Rent a car for maximum flexibility

Want to experience more remote and stunning parts of Finland? Then renting a car is your best option. Not the cheapest way, but it will give you maximum flexibility.

Day 1-2: Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and is a vibrant and livable city. I was pleasantly surprised by the city’s vibes, gorgeous architecture and culinary scene. I loved Helsinki and I am sure you will, too. In this itinerary you can read all you need to know about how to spend 2 days in Helsinki.

Day 3: Day trip to Porvoo

Porvoo is a charming and historic town on the southern coast of Finland, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Helsinki. It is one of Finland’s oldest towns, with a history dating back to the 13th century. It was an important trading and seafaring hub during the Middle Ages.

Porvoo has also played a significant role in the early development of the Finnish nation. The town has inspired many Finnish artists, writers, and poets throughout history. 

You can easily get there and back by bus. Here you will find all your need to know for a fantastic day trip from Helsinki to Porvoo. 

Day 4: Day trip to Turku

Turku is one of the oldest cities in Finland, with a history dating that goes back over 800 years. It was the capital of Finland until 1812 and played a significant role in the country’s development and cultural heritage. Today it is the third largest city in Finland with approximately 280 thousand people. 

Turku is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. The city hosts events such as the Turku Music Festival, the Medieval Market, and the Christmas Peace Ceremony. Turku is also the gateway to the stunning Turku Archipelago, consisting of thousands of islands. It is possible to take cruises or ferries to explore picturesque villages.

You can easily get to Turku by bus or train from Helsinki. Bus is cheaper and comfortable enough. We booked a bus via this platform and it was easy and efficient.

Click here to find how to spend one amazing day in Turku, as a day trip from Helsinki.

Day 5: Day trip to Tampere

Finland's industrial hub.

Tampere is the second largest city in Finland with around 342 thousand inhabitants and is considered a cultural and educational hub in Finland. Geographically, Tampere is situated around 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Helsinki and 140 kilometers (87 miles) north-northeast of Turku.

You can easily get to Tampere by bus or train from Helsinki and Turku. Buses are the more economical option and you can easily book tickets here .

Tampere has a rich industrial history and played a significant role in Finland’s industrialization. The city was known for its textile and manufacturing industries. Finlayson Factory area is a place worth visiting, as it offers a glimpse into the city’s industrial past. 

Historic architecture

Another must-see in the city center is Tampere Cathedral, a neo-Gothic style church. It was completed in 1907 and has since been an important place of worship for the Lutheran community.

The cathedral is designed in the National Romantic architectural style, which was popular during the early 20th century. It features elements of both Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau styles, giving it a unique and striking appearance. The cathedral’s exterior showcases beautiful red brickwork with decorative details, including intricate stone carvings and sculptures. The interior is spacious and adorned with high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate woodwork.

Surrounded by unspoiled nature

Nature is big in Tampere as well. The city is built between two large lakes, Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. There are many beautiful waterfront areas and opportunities for outdoor activities. The city is known for its scenic landscapes, with rapids and waterfalls. The most known are Tammerkoski Rapids flowing through the city center. The Pyynikki Park and Observation Tower, located on a ridge with scenic views, is a also popular destination for nature lovers.

Many culture and entertainment options

The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with many museums and art galleries. Some notable ones include the Tampere Art Museum, Vapriikki Museum Center, and Moomin Museum, which showcases the beloved Moomin characters created by Finnish author Tove Jansson.

Tampere hosts several annual festivals and events that celebrate music, film, theater, and cultural diversity. The Tampere Film Festival, Tampere Theatre Festival, and Tampere Jazz Happening are some of the prominent events that draw both local and international audiences.

Last but not least, Särkänniemi amusement park is also worth a visit. It is home to the Näsinneula Observation Tower, with great panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

So, is it worth visiting Finland?

I must admit that Finland was low on my list, but once I visited I fell in love with this peaceful, clean and livable country. The weather was gorgeous, which certainly helped. I can imagine that winters are harder to deal with. However, I just loved the vibes and I start to understand why it is considered one of the happiest countries on earth, where people live in harmony with nature and each other. I absolutely recommend Finland to anyone wanting to experience a beautiful and surprising part of Europe.

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About the author

Hi there, my name is Panos and I live and breathe for traveling! I have visited more than 55 countries so far and aim to discover them all! In my eyes, traveling is not a lifestyle item, but a way to learn and broaden one’s horizons. My philosophy is that, if you plan well, you can discover new places in a more relaxed way without spending a fortune. Being a natural-born travel planning consultant, I love making amazing trips accessible to everyone. I have done tons of on-the-ground research before each trip, and have documented my journeys in detail.

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Finland is offering free vacations for people to come and learn how to be happy after being named the happiest country in the world

Finland has been named the happiest country in the world for the sixth year running.

• It's now offering 10 people a free trip to take part in a "Masterclass of Happiness."
• Visit Finland's masterclass is scheduled to take place over four days in mid-June.

The Nordic country topped the rankings with a score that was "significantly ahead of all other countries," according to the World Happiness Report 2023 published this week. The report, which the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network published and a team of independent experts wrote, measures factors including average income and mental and physical health. The data for the report is primarily taken from Gallup's World Poll. 

After repeated success in the area, Visit Finland is now offering ten people the chance to come to the country and learn how to be happy like the Finnish. 

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Visit Finland's " Masterclass of Happiness " is scheduled to take place over four days in June at the Kuru Resort in Finland's Lake District. Visit Finland will cover all travel and accommodation expenses, which include a private room, access to a private sauna and spa, and all other "essential facilities," according to Visit Finland's website.

The trip includes sessions with Finnish experts to learn about nature crafts, food, well-being, health, and balance, according to the website.

Applications are open now until April 2, with hopefuls asked to make an Instagram Reel or a TikTok showing why they "may secretly be a Finn" as part of their application. The participants will also be filmed during the visit with the material used for Visit Finland's advertising, according to the website.

Heli Jimenez, senior director at the governmental organization Business Finland, said in a press release that Finland's national happiness "stems from a close relationship with nature and our down-to-earth lifestyle: it's not some mystical state."

It is a "skill that can be learned," she said.

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