It has been a decade since I arrived in this country and although winter in Finland can get really cold, it is hard to deny the fact how beautiful it can be. These mesmerizing winter wonderland photos of Finland will really tease your wanderlust without a doubt.

You might be wondering, is it cold?

Well, totally.

Finland’s weather in winter can go down to -30 °C (-22 °F) and it is freezing! However, nothing is too cold with proper winter clothing! Knowing what to wear in winter is indeed important so be aware of that if you want to visit Finland or other Nordic countries in Winter. Remember to keep warm and have fun and don’t let the cold weather hold you up from doing all the fun things you can do outdoors! Because trust me, it is worth it.

When is the best time to visit Finland in Winter?

Winter starts already in November, but if you haven’t heard yet, nobody in their right minds will come to Finland in November unless you’re a badass – that’s the latest marketing slogan Helsinki came up with that went viral which a lot of people thought was genius. I say it is funny because it is true. That’s Finnish humor for you!

Anyway, winter starts from November and lasts until March. I would say the best time to visit depends on what you intend to do. For instance, December is great especially if you visit Lapland (North of Finland) to see the ever so famous Santa Claus Village. However, Ski season in Lapland is in February until May where you can enjoy longer sunny days.

What are the cool activities you can look forward to?

With no denial, if you plan to come during winter in Finland, your best bet is the northern part of the country which is Lapland. However, Helsinki is a good choice too if you want to see the capital city covered in snow – but don’t come before January otherwise the winter darkness will welcome you. Daylight starts to be longer in January onwards, and you get to see the best of the city! Also, Helsinki is a design capital of Europe so make sure to check out some of its design hotels and restaurants designed by some of the country’s talented artists!

Should you visit Finland in Winter?

Why not? This country is so beautiful – go see for yourself with these photos! But remember to stay warm and if you’re interested, here’s a list of traditional Finnish meals you’ll likely to find in restaurants during winter as some of them are warm and hearty meals that’s perfect for winter!

Photos of Finland in Winter

1. Dog sledding in Lapland

2. Iso-syöte National Park

Photo by Juho Holmi | CC 2.0

3. Ruka, Finland

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

4. So beautiful, isn’t?

5. When Lapland gets covered in snow

6. Lake Tervajärvi

Photo by Juho Holmi | CC 2.0

7. Oulanka National Park

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

8. Frozen River

9. Ruka, Finland

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

10. Ruka, Finland

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

11. Sunset and moonrise

12. It sure does look freezing, huh?

13. Outside Helsinki, Finland

Photo by Rob Hurson | CC 2.0

14. Winter Wonderland, isn’t she?

15. Oulanka National Park

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

16. Oittaa, Finland

Photo by Guillaume Baviere | CC 2.0

17. Yet another beautiful shot of Aurora Borealis

18. Frozen lake, sunshine, and trees covered in snow. Gorgeous.

19. Kuntivaara, Finland

Photo by Timo Newton-Syms | CC 2.0

20. Näsijärvi, Finland

Photo by Juho Holmi | CC 2.0