Best Times to Visit Helsinki, Finland
Quick Answer:
The best time to visit Helsinki is during the summer (June-August) for long daylight hours and mild temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Shoulder seasons (May & September) offer a pleasant balance of fewer crowds and good weather. Winter (December-February) provides a magical snowy experience but with shorter days and colder temperatures. Spring (March-May) sees the city slowly waking up, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -2°C | -7°C | 28°F | 19°F | 40mm | 10 days | 6h |
| Feb | -1°C | -6°C | 30°F | 21°F | 35mm | 9 days | 8h |
| Mar | 2°C | -3°C | 36°F | 27°F | 40mm | 10 days | 11h |
| Apr | 7°C | 2°C | 45°F | 36°F | 40mm | 9 days | 14h |
| May | 13°C | 7°C | 55°F | 45°F | 45mm | 10 days | 17h |
| Jun | 18°C | 12°C | 64°F | 54°F | 50mm | 11 days | 18h |
| Jul | 21°C | 15°C | 70°F | 59°F | 60mm | 12 days | 17h |
| Aug | 19°C | 13°C | 66°F | 55°F | 65mm | 12 days | 14h |
| Sep | 14°C | 9°C | 57°F | 48°F | 55mm | 11 days | 12h |
| Oct | 8°C | 4°C | 46°F | 39°F | 50mm | 10 days | 9h |
| Nov | 3°C | -1°C | 37°F | 30°F | 45mm | 10 days | 7h |
| Dec | 0°C | -4°C | 32°F | 25°F | 40mm | 10 days | 6h |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Helsinki?
The best time to visit Helsinki is during the summer months (June-August) for long daylight hours and pleasant weather, or during the winter (December-February) for a magical snowy experience and festive atmosphere.
What is the average temperature in Helsinki during the summer and winter?
In summer, the average temperature is around 18-20°C (64-68°F). In winter, it averages around -3 to -5°C (27-23°F), but can feel colder due to wind chill.
What is the currency in Helsinki, and what is the cost of living?
The currency in Helsinki is the Euro (EUR). The cost of living is relatively high compared to many other European cities, especially for accommodation and dining out. However, there are many budget-friendly options available.
What are some popular attractions in Helsinki?
Popular attractions include Suomenlinna sea fortress, Helsinki Cathedral, Uspenski Cathedral, Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church), and the Market Square. Many museums and art galleries are also worth visiting.
How do I get around Helsinki?
Helsinki has a good public transportation system with trams, buses, and metro. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center. Ferries are available for trips to Suomenlinna and other islands.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.
Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!