Welcome to the frozen north! Well, yes and no. Finnish winters are crystallised in a frigid blanket of snow but, surprisingly perhaps, summers are mild, even warm.

So, in this country of variety, let’s start in winter. Variations on the frozen theme depend on wind direction. When Atlantic winds reach across the Baltic to southern Finland, temperatures can reach above freezing, even in the depths of winter. But generally, we can expect sub-zero temperatures, even in the capital, Helsinki, both by day and night, through the long winter months. And the further north we go, the colder it gets.

Snowfall is generally light and infrequent, but it steadily mounts up from November through to March, interspersed by occasional thaws across the south. When winds arrive from the North Pole or from Siberia, severe cold ensues. Be prepared and pack accordingly.

Spring brings big fluctuations, almost on a daily basis, with temperatures varying wildly before the thaw sets in with a vengeance through late March and April. With the rapidly lengthening days, the forests and meadows of this vast country transform themselves into a rich and vibrant green canopy.

Summers bring mixed conditions. Warm sunshine is interspersed by occasional heavy showers, making this the wettest time of year. However most days are still dry. And occasionally, temperatures can reach the high 20s Celsius! It’s a great time to explore the wilderness. Head north of the Arctic Circle to Lapland - to the land of the midnight sun. But take your insect repellant. Mosquitoes are ubiquitous at this time, especially near lakes and rivers.

Early autumn is a great time to visit - a mellow mildness before the nights rapidly lengthen, the first snows arrive and the pristine landscape hibernates ahead of the long winter ahead.

Quick facts about

Finland

Capital:

Currency:

Helsinki