Weather in Finland in December

December is deep winter in Finland, when snow blankets the country and the Santa Claus Village in Lapland draws in vacation travelers. The days are short, with barely any daylight up north, but this is prime time for winter sports and magical snowy scenes.

Thinking about a festive getaway? Here’s what to expect from the weather in Finland in December.

Finland in December at a glance

• Average temperatures range from  14°F to 32°F (-10°C to 0°C).
• December is prime time to visit Lapland, think reindeer rides, frozen forests, and Santa Claus-themed everything.
• Snowy conditions make it ideal for skiing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding.
• Visiting Finland in December means big crowds.

What is the weather like in Finland in December?

The weather in Finland in December is cold, dark, and snow-heavy, exactly what you’d expect from a proper Nordic winter.

If you’re planning a trip to Finland this month, know that it’s the darkest time of year, with only a few hours of daylight even in the south, and almost none in the north.

Temperatures drop below freezing across the country, but northern Finland hits the extremes. Pack for a serious cold.

Still, if you come prepared, this could be the best time to visit Finland. You’ll get deep snow, frozen forests, and a chance to experience winter at its most intense.

Average daily temperatures in December

Average daily temperatures don't go above 32°F (0°C) in Finland in December, with an average low of 14°F (-10°C). 

The further north you go, the colder it will be, with temperatures in the range of -4°F to 14°F (-20°C to -10°C).

Meanwhile, Southern Finland, including Helsinki, sees milder temperatures, with a range of 23°F to 32°F (-5°C to 0°C).

Is December a good time to visit Finland?

December is one of the most popular months for trips to Finland, thanks to Santa Claus, the Northern Lights, and snowy adventures up north.

Most winter activities are centered in Lapland, where you can visit Santa Claus Village, ride with reindeer through frozen forests, and chase the aurora.

But don’t skip the south, cities like Helsinki light up with Christmas markets, festive events, and cozy cafés perfect for warming up from the cold. Be prepared for the weather in Finland in December, which can be quite cold, with short days and plenty of snow.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• Winter magic: Snow transforms Finland into a postcard-perfect landscape, especially in Lapland, where frozen forests and icy lakes set the scene.
• Festive spirit: Towns and cities glow with lights, Christmas markets, and seasonal events. Helsinki in particular goes all in.
• Northern Lights: December offers great chances to see the aurora borealis, especially in the far north, where the nights are longest.
• Bucket-list activities: From husky sledding to snowmobiling and reindeer rides, this is the month for classic Arctic adventures.
• Santa season: December is prime time to visit Santa Claus Village, just expect crowds and book ahead.

What about the crowds and cost?

December is the peak vacation season in Finland, especially in Lapland. Expect big crowds at major attractions like Santa Claus Village and higher demand across the board.

That means pricier flights, accommodation, and excursions, especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year. If you're planning a December trip, book well in advance to lock in better rates and availability.

Where to go in Finland in December

December is deep winter, and some of the best places to visit in Finland this month are blanketed in snow and buzzing with seasonal energy. From Arctic adventures to candlelit city streets, this is the time to lean into the cold and make the most of the short days.

Rovaniemi and Santa Claus Village

Rovaniemi, in Finnish Lapland, goes all-in for Christmas. Santa Claus Village is the headline act, with reindeer rides, snow-dusted pine trees, and lights strung across everything that stands still. It’s busy but worth it, especially for families or first-time visitors hoping to catch the Northern Lights.

Helsinki

Finland’s capital turns festive in December. Expect open-air Christmas markets, ice skating in the city center, and cozy bars where you can warm up with glögi (Finnish mulled wine). The streets are lit up by early December, and nearby towns like Porvoo add a fairytale feel with their snowy old towns and river views.

Levi

For snow sports, Levi is one of the top choices. It’s a full winter resort with downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country trails through frozen forests. Early December tends to be quieter, with fewer crowds on the slopes and more space in the saunas.

Kemi

Located on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia, Kemi is home to the famous SnowCastle, a massive structure rebuilt from snow and ice each winter. If sea ice conditions allow, you can also join an icebreaker cruise and walk out on the frozen sea behind the ship.

What to do in Finland in December

If you're looking for things to do in Finland in December, expect full-on winter. Snow covers much of the country, the daylight hours are short, and the air is cold, but that’s exactly what makes this month so special. From reindeer safaris and icy adventures in the north to festive lights and food in the cities, this is Finland at its wintry best.

See the Northern Lights in Lapland

December gives you long nights and dark skies: ideal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. Head to remote areas like Inari or Kilpisjärvi, far from artificial light.

The aurora isn’t guaranteed, but your chances are high with clear skies and a bit of patience. Local guides can take you out on snowshoes or sleds for a better view.

Visit Helsinki’s Christmas markets

Helsinki pulls out all the stops in December. The main Christmas market in Senate Square has arguments of wooden stalls selling handmade gifts, wool socks, and spiced glögi.

There are lights everywhere, pop-up saunas, and a Ferris wheel with views over the festively lit harbor. It’s cold, but the atmosphere is warm.

Try traditional Finnish winter sports

There’s more to do than just skiing. In the north, you can go dog sledding, snowshoeing, or try kicksledding, a local way to glide across frozen lakes and quiet paths.

Ice fishing and snowmobile safaris are also popular, and many resorts offer combo packages that include everything from gear rental to hot drinks by the fire afterward.

Experience Sámi culture

In Finnish Lapland, Sámi-run experiences offer insight into the Indigenous culture of the Arctic. Some small-scale tours include visiting reindeer farms, hearing traditional yoik songs, or learning about Sámi crafts. It’s a respectful and eye-opening way to understand more about life in the far north.

Plan your trip with our Finland itineraries

Our Finland itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point, perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Finland itinerary 5 days: A short trip focused on Finland’s highlights. Expect to explore Helsinki, take a day trip to charming Porvoo, and experience the Finnish sauna culture, maybe even with a dip in an icy lake!
• Finland itinerary 10 days: Ten days lets you see Helsinki and venture into the Finnish wilderness. You can explore Lapland for northern lights and winter activities, or visit the stunning Lakeland region for hikes and lakeside relaxation.