March

Weather in Finland in March: A Traveler’s Guide 🌨️☀️

March marks the transition from winter to spring in Finland, offering a unique blend of snowy landscapes and gradually increasing daylight. For travelers, this month presents a mix of chilly temperatures, late-season snow activities, and the first hints of milder weather. Below, we break down what to expect and how to prepare for a trip to Finland in March.

Temperature and Weather Conditions ❄️→🌤️

In March, Finland’s weather varies significantly between regions:

  • Southern Finland (e.g., Helsinki, Turku):
    • Average highs: 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F)
    • Average lows: -4°C to -1°C (25°F to 30°F)
    • Snow begins to melt, but frosty mornings are common.
  • Northern Finland (e.g., Rovaniemi, Lapland):
    • Average highs: -5°C to -1°C (23°F to 30°F)
    • Average lows: -15°C to -10°C (5°F to 14°F)
    • Snow cover remains thick, ideal for winter sports.

Pro tip: Coastal areas are slightly milder, while inland and northern regions stay colder. Always check regional forecasts before packing!

Daylight Hours: The Return of the Sun 🌅

One of March’s biggest perks is the rapidly increasing daylight:
– Early March: ~10 hours of daylight (sunrise around 7 AM, sunset around 5 PM).
– Late March: Up to 13 hours of daylight, especially in the south.
– In Lapland, the Northern Lights season winds down as nights shorten, but sightings are still possible early in the month.

Snow and Precipitation ❄️💧

  • Snowfall: Likely in the north; sporadic in the south.
  • Rain: More common in southern coastal areas as temperatures rise.
  • Road conditions: Icy patches persist—rental cars often still need winter tires.

What to Pack for Finland in March 🧥🧣

Layer up! Finland’s March weather is unpredictable. Essentials include:
1. Thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic).
2. Waterproof winter boots (for slushy streets or snowy trails).
3. A warm coat (down or insulated).
4. Gloves, hat, and scarf—windproof options are best.
5. Sunglasses (sun reflects brightly off snow).

For Lapland, add snow pants and hand warmers if planning outdoor adventures.

Top Activities in March 🏂🎿

  1. Skiing & Snowboarding: Resorts like Levi and Ylläs are still fully operational.
  2. Northern Lights Tours: Best in early March before midnight sun approaches.
  3. Husky Sledding & Snowmobiling: Ideal while snow is plentiful.
  4. City Breaks: Explore Helsinki’s museums or Turku’s historic sites without summer crowds.

Note: Some winter activities close by late March—book in advance!

Travel Tips ✈️

  • Book flights early: March is a popular month for winter tourism.
  • Check ferry schedules: Ice begins breaking in the Baltic Sea, affecting routes.
  • Easter travel: If visiting late March, note that Easter (dates vary) can mean closures.

How March Compares to Other Months 📅

  • Vs. February: Less extreme cold, more daylight.
  • Vs. April: Fewer tourists, but snow melts faster in the south.
  • For more details, see our guides to Finland in February or Finland in April.

Final Thoughts

March is a fantastic time to experience Finland’s winter magic with milder temps and longer days. Whether chasing auroras, hitting the slopes, or exploring cities, pack for variability and embrace the season’s contrasts!

For broader climate context, visit our Finland Climate Guide.

Happy travels! 🇫🇮✈️

Basic Information about March

Feature Details
Average Temperature -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F)
Day Length Approximately 11 to 14 hours of daylight
Precipitation Moderate, with increasing rainfall towards the month’s end
Snowfall Decreases significantly, but snow may still occur
Average Wind Speed 10-15 km/h (6-9 mph)
Temperature Range -10°C to 7°C (14°F to 45°F)
Average Snow Cover Persistent in northern regions, melting in the south
Typical Weather Transition from winter to spring, with variable conditions
Festivals and Events End of winter celebrations, early spring festivals
Agricultural Activities Preparation for planting, early sowing in some regions

FAQ about March Weather in Finland

Question Answer
What is the average temperature in Finland during March? Average temperatures range from -10°C to 0°C, depending on the region.
Does daylight increase during March? Yes, daylight hours gradually increase as Finland approaches spring.
Is snow still common in March? Snow remains widespread, especially in northern regions, but begins to melt in southern areas.
What are typical weather conditions in March? March often features cold temperatures, snow, and occasional rain or sleet.
Are there any notable weather events in March? Heavy snowfalls and cold snaps can occur, along with the beginning of spring thaws.
How does March affect outdoor activities? Conditions are suitable for winter sports, but the melting snow can cause slushy terrain.
What is the likelihood of snowstorms in March? Snowstorms are less frequent than in winter but can still occur, especially early in the month.
How does March weather vary between northern and southern Finland? Northern Finland remains colder with persistent snow, while southern regions experience milder temperatures and melting snow.
When does spring typically begin in Finland? Spring generally starts in late March or early April, depending on the region and weather patterns.