Helsinki Weather

As Helsinki lies at the extreme south of Finland, it enjoys a much milder climate than the rest of the country, owing to the effects of the Gulf Stream and the Baltic Sea. Summers are warm with high temperatures and long days, while winters are very cold.

Summer

The best months to visit Helsinki for tourists are between June and September, and especially in July and August, when temperatures are at their balmiest and many locals head for other pastures. July is the hottest month and also experiences a low rainfall, with temperatures reaching as much as 30C. August is also a great time to be in Helsinki, particularly if you are into the arts, with a major arts festival being held during this month.

Winter

By contrast, winters in Helsinki are bitterly cold with very short days and blankets of snow over the city. The average temperature is below freezing, and you should bring many layers if you are visiting the city during this time of the year. Springtime is a much more favourable time to visit than the winter, with longer days and warmer temperatures.

Average Temperature (°C)

20 15 10 5 0

Jan -6.1

Feb -6.5

Mar -3.5

Apr 2.0

May 8.5

Jun 14.0

Jul 16.8

Aug 15.5

Sep 10.7

Oct 5.5

Nov 0.4

Dec -3.5

Rainfall (mm)

80 60 40 20 0

Jan 46.0

Feb 36.6

Mar 34.9

Apr 37.4

May 42.1

Jun 45.9

Jul 61.5

Aug 74.7

Sep 66.5

Oct 68.5

Nov 65.7

Dec 55.0