Helsinki Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Helsinki.
Climate overview of Helsinki
The climate in Helsinki, Southern Finland, Finland, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 23°C (73°F) in July to -1°C (30°F) in February.
The city receives around 736 mm (29 in) of rain/snowfall per year. It experiences warm summers and very cold winters. July is the wettest month and March the driest. Sunshine peaks in June, when the city sees around 9.9 hours of sunshine per day.
Helsinki Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Helsinki - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Helsinki
In Helsinki, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 23°C (73°F) in July to a very cold -1°C (30°F) in February.
Nighttime temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in July to -8°C (18°F) in February.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Helsinki
On average, Helsinki receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 736 mm (29 in). The amount of precipitation varies moderately throughout the year. The wettest month, July, sees around 80 mm (3.1 in) of rainfall, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of rain now and then. The driest month, March, still receives a respectable 42 mm (1.7 in) of snow/rainfall. For more details, please visit our Helsinki Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Helsinki
In Helsinki, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 9.9 hours in June. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. December sees a soft sun for only 1 hour per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Helsinki
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 0°C (32°F) in January to 15°C (59°F) in July.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Helsinki by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Helsinki.
The city experiences its highest humidity in November, reaching 89%. In May, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 65%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Helsinki
The mean wind speed varies between 3 m/s (6 knots) and 4 m/s (8 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in February, May, June, July, August and September and highest during January, March, April, October, November and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Helsinki
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: June, July and August
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: June and July
- Fewest rainy days: May and June
- Seasonal pattern: Warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: February, with freezing nights around -8°C (18°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Helsinki
What is the best time to visit Helsinki?
June, July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Helsinki. In contrast, January, February, March, April, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Helsinki has warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Helsinki?
Daytime highs range from -1°C (30°F) in February to 23°C (73°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 14°C (57°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Helsinki get?
Annual rainfall is around 736 mm (29 in). July is the wettest month with 80 mm (3.1 in), while March is the driest with 42 mm (1.7 in).
How sunny is Helsinki?
Helsinki receives around 1,840 hours of sunshine per year. June is the sunniest month with 298 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 30 hours.
Helsinki 3-Day Forecast
Helsinki on the map
Helsinki is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in August - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
Air Guitar World Championship Finland
This is something you might want to add to your bucket list. August is also the perfect time to visit Finland. The days are long and the temperature is amazing.
Sleeping in a glass iglo in Finland
Sleeping in a glass igloo with the Northern Lights shining above you. The most famous place is in the Iglo village in Kakslattaunen. The idea is amazing and definitely something to add to your bucket list.
See the northern lights
The northern lights, polar light or Aarora Borealis is a true spectacle of nature! Green, sometimes purple, red and yellow streaks of light colors the dark skies.