Top Tips for Surviving Finnish Winter: A Tourist Guide

Editor: Pratik Ghadge on Feb 19,2025

 

Finland, the "Land of a Thousand Lakes," is a winter wonderland in the cold months. With its snowy landscapes, Northern Lights, and unique winter sports, Finnish winter travel is unparalleled. The Finnish winter, however, is not for the faint of heart. Temperatures reach -30°C (-22°F) or even lower, so preparation is essential. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Finland in winter, from the winter equipment you will need to the best winter activities and tips on how to get the most out of your Finnish winter holidays.

Understanding Finnish Winter Weather

The Cold Reality

Finnish winters are dominated by lengthy, dark, and very cold days. The period of winter usually ranges from November to March, with January and February being the coldest. Temperature ranges between -5°C (23°F) in the south to -30°C (-22°F) or even lower in the north of Finland, in the region of Lapland.

Daylight Hours

One of the most striking features of Finnish winter is the limited daylight. In the southern parts of Finland, the sun may rise around 9 AM and set by 3 PM, giving you only about 6 hours of daylight. In the north, particularly in Lapland, the sun may not rise at all for several weeks during the polar night (Kaamos). But such darkness is wonderfully made up by the enchanting Northern Lights and peaceful snow-covered scenery.

Similar Read: Best Time to Visit Finland: A Seasonal Guide for Tourists

Key Winter Gear for Finland

For Finnish winter travel, the appropriate attire is your greatest friend. Here's an exhaustive guide to dressing for Finland's cold weather:

Layering is the Key

The key to keeping warm in Finland's extreme winter is layering. The three-layer system is strongly advised:

  1. Base Layer: This layer is next to your skin and must be of moisture-wicking fabric such as merino wool or man-made materials. Cotton is a bad idea because it holds moisture against your skin and makes you colder.
  2. Insulating Layer: This layer prevents heat from escaping and keeps you warm. Fleece jackets, down vests, or wool sweaters are ideal choices.
  3. Outer Layer: This is your wind and rain protection and snow shield. A good waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers are a must. Materials such as Gore-Tex or something similar.

Accessories Matter

  1. Hat: The head loses quite a bit of body heat, so an insulated, warm hat is a requirement.
  2. Gloves: Take insulated, water-resistant gloves. For very cold weather, try mittens, which keep your fingers together and trap more warmth.
  3. Scarf or Neck Gaiter: Protect your neck and face from the biting cold with a thick scarf or a neck gaiter.
  4. Socks: Woolen socks are ideal for keeping your feet warm. Consider wearing two pairs if you’re going to be outside for extended periods.
  5. Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction are essential. Look for boots rated for at least -20°C (-4°F) or lower.

Don't Forget the Extras

  1. Hand Warmers: These disposable, small packets are a life-saver during extended periods spent outdoors.
  2. Thermal Underwear: On severely cold days, thermal underwear might be an extra layer of comfort.
  3. Sunglasses: Snow is blinding, particularly if the sun is low on the horizon. Polarized sunglasses will safeguard your eyes and enhance your vision.

Tips for Getting Around Finland in the Snow

Transport

  1. Public Transport: Finnish public transport is clean and reliable even during snow. Trains and buses can withstand snowfall, but advance-book your itinerary since delays could occur.
  2. Driving: In case of renting a vehicle, ensure that it has winter tires installed. Finnish roads are properly cleared but there still remain slippery areas. Drive at low speeds and leave ample distance between the front vehicle and yourself.
  3. Walking: Footpaths are icy, so walk carefully. It may be worth carrying ice grips or crampons on your shoes for additional grip.

Staying Safe

  1. Hypothermia and Frostbite: Monitor for signs of hypothermia (shivering, confusion, slurred speech) and frostbite (numbness, pale or grayish-yellow skin). If you experience either, get into warmth and seek medical help at once.
  2. Emergency Numbers: The standard emergency number in Finland is 112. Store this number in your phone and also remember where you are in the event that you need to dial for assistance.

Winter Activities in Finland

men sking on ice in ice forest

Finnish winter vacation provides an array of activities suitable for every kind of interest and level of adventure. Some activities that one has to experience include:

1. Northern Lights Hunting

One of the most enchanting experiences in Finland is witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The ideal period to witness them is late September to March, but the prime time is December to February. Visit Lapland for the best chance to watch this phenomenon. Opt for a guided tour for the finest experience.

2. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Finland's wide, snow-covered landscape is ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. They enable you to traverse the peaceful winter backcountry on your own schedule. Guided tours and rental gear are available at most resorts and national parks.

3. Husky and Reindeer Safaris

Get the adrenalin rush of a husky sled tour along the snow-covered woods or take a more relaxed reindeer sleigh tour. Safaris here are not just entertaining but also an innovative means to interact with nature as well as Finnish culture.

4. Ice Fishing

For something more laid-back, go ice fishing. Drill a hole in the icy lake, lower your line, and wait for a bite. It's a serene method of enjoying the winter view and maybe even catching dinner.

5. Sauna and Ice Swimming

No trip to Finland is complete without trying a traditional Finnish sauna. Sweat it out in the sauna and then take a dip in an ice-cold lake or roll around in the snow. This refreshing ritual is said to get the blood circulating and give your immune system a boost.

6. Santa Claus Village

Find Santa at this official hometown of his- a magical village in Rovaniemi. You can cross the Arctic Circle and also indulge in various winter activities.

7. Snowmobile Adventures

Adrenaline junkies praise snowmobiling as the ultimate way to get thrills while traversing the snowy landscapes. Many local tour operators organize guided snowmobile safaris over a variety of timescales: from short rides to multi-day adventures.

You may also like: Top Finland National Parks for Hiking and Wilderness Trips

Practical Tips for Finnish Winter Holidays

1. Plan Ahead

  • Accommodation: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting popular destinations like Lapland. Many hotels and resorts offer winter packages that include activities.
  • Activities: Some activities, such as Northern Lights tours or husky safaris, require booking. Plan your itinerary and make reservations early to avoid disappointment.

2. Stay Connected

  • Internet: Finland has great mobile coverage and free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and public areas. Get a local SIM card if you require constant internet use.
  • Power Banks: Cold temperatures can quickly drain your phone's battery. Bring a power bank to keep your devices charged.

3. Embrace the Culture

  • Local Food: Finnish winter food is warming and nourishing. Sample such foods as creamy salmon soup, reindeer stew, and Karelian pies. Don't forget to heat up with a cup of glögi (Finnish mulled wine).
  • Respect Nature: Finns respect nature intensely. Observe the "Everyman's Right" (Jokamiehen oikeudet), which entitles you to freely roam in nature, but also commits you to treating the environment and private property with respect.

4. Health and Safety

  • Travel Insurance: Make sure that you carry complete travel insurance covering winter sports and activities.
  • Medications: If you have prescription medications, pack sufficient for the duration of your trip and carry them in your hand luggage.

Conclusion

Traveling to Finland during winter is an experience you will never forget, with a mix of adventure, culture, and nature that is unlike anywhere else. Although the cold may be intimidating, the right preparation and attitude will make your trip safe and enjoyable. From the necessary winter gear to the variety of winter activities, Finnish winter travel is all about enjoying the cold and maximizing the snowy paradise. So grab your coziest clothes, organize your schedule, and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime in the enchanting Finnish winter.


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