December

Weather in Finland in December: A Winter Wonderland for Travelers ❄️

December in Finland is a magical time, with snow-covered landscapes, festive lights, and the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). However, it’s also one of the coldest months, making proper preparation essential for travelers. Here’s what you need to know about Finland’s December weather and how to make the most of your winter trip.

Temperature and Weather Conditions 🌡️

Finland’s December weather varies significantly between regions:

Region Avg. Temperature (°C) Daytime High Nighttime Low Key Features
Southern Finland (Helsinki, Turku) -1°C to -5°C Around 0°C -5°C to -10°C Snowy, shorter days
Central Finland (Tampere, Jyväskylä) -5°C to -10°C -3°C -10°C to -15°C More snow, darker days
Lapland (Rovaniemi, Levi) -10°C to -20°C -5°C to -10°C -15°C to -25°C Polar nights, Northern Lights
  • Snowfall: By December, most of Finland is covered in snow, especially in Lapland, where snow depths can exceed 30 cm (12 inches).
  • Daylight: The further north you go, the shorter the days. In Helsinki, daylight lasts ~6 hours, while in Lapland, the polar night means the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon for weeks.

What to Pack for Finland in December 🧤

Travelers should prepare for extreme cold, especially if visiting Lapland:
✔ Thermal layers (wool or synthetic fabrics)
✔ Insulated winter jacket (windproof & waterproof)
✔ Warm gloves, hat, and scarf
✔ Winter boots (with good grip for icy surfaces)
✔ Hand warmers (useful for outdoor activities)

Best Activities in December 🎿

Finland offers unique winter experiences:
– Northern Lights Hunting – Best seen in Lapland on clear nights.
– Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi) – Meet Santa in his official hometown! 🎅
– Husky & Reindeer Safaris – A must-do Arctic adventure.
– Ice Swimming & Saunas – A Finnish tradition to warm up.
– Skiing & Snowboarding – Resorts like Levi and Ruka are in full swing.

Travel Tips for December in Finland ✈️

  • Book early – December is peak season, especially around Christmas.
  • Dress in layers – Avoid sweating, which can make you colder.
  • Rent winter gear – Many tour operators provide thermal suits and boots.
  • Check road conditions – If driving, ensure your rental car has winter tires.

For more details on Finland’s climate, see our Finland Climate Guide. If you’re planning a trip, check the Best Time to Visit Finland for seasonal comparisons.

Final Thoughts

December in Finland is a true winter paradise, but the cold can be intense. With the right clothing and planning, you’ll enjoy snowy adventures, festive charm, and possibly the Aurora Borealis! 🌌

Looking for other winter destinations? Compare with Sweden or Norway for similar Arctic experiences.

Basic Information about December

Feature Details
Average Temperature -10°C to -2°C in Finland
Daylight Hours Approximately 4-6 hours of daylight
Snowfall Frequent snowfall, covering the ground with snow
Average Precipitation Low to moderate, mostly snow
Temperature Range -20°C to 0°C in some regions
Northern Lights Often visible due to long dark nights
Festivals Christmas and New Year celebrations
Average Wind Speed Moderate to strong winds
Ice Cover Lakes and rivers often freeze over
Tourist Activities Skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports

December Weather FAQ in Finland

Question Answer
What is the typical temperature range in Finland during December? Temperatures usually range from -15°C to -5°C, but can drop lower in northern regions.
Does Finland experience snow in December? Yes, snow cover is common across most parts of Finland during December.
How much daylight is there in Finland in December? Daylight hours are limited, with only a few hours of daylight, especially in the northern regions.
Is December a good time for winter sports in Finland? Yes, December is ideal for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
What are the typical weather conditions in coastal areas during December? Coastal areas tend to be milder with more precipitation, often in the form of snow or rain.
Are there any specific weather hazards to watch for in December? Heavy snowfall, ice formation, and cold temperatures can create hazardous travel conditions.
How does December weather affect travel within Finland? Snow and ice can cause delays and disruptions, especially in northern and rural areas.
What is the average wind speed in December? Winds can be quite strong, particularly in coastal and northern regions, contributing to wind chill.
Are there any notable weather phenomena in December? The polar night and potential for northern lights (aurora borealis) are notable phenomena during December.