Weather in Finland in March

 The weather in Finland in March is still cold, but daylight is returning fast. In Lapland, you’ve still got a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights, and ski resorts are in full swing. Down south in cities like Helsinki, snow begins to melt, but winter isn’t quite over yet. March is great for winter sports with longer, brighter days on the way.

Finland in March at a glance

• The temperature range runs from 14°F to 32°F (-10°C to 0°C).
• With its snowy landscapes and chances to see the Northern Lights, March is a great month to visit Lapland. 
• It is the ideal time for winter sports and appreciating the peaceful beauty of the icy wilderness.
• Visiting in March means fewer tourists compared to the peak winter months.

What is the weather like in Finland in March?

The weather in Finland in March is still cold but begins to warm slightly as the month progresses.

While snowfall is still common in March, you won’t see much rain, which means great conditions for enjoying end-of-season winter activities.

Overall, March can be a great time to visit Finland to experience an enchanting winter vibe and enjoy winter sports. This is a great time to plan your Finland itinerary.

Average daily temperatures in March

March in Finland still feels like winter in most parts of the country. In Helsinki, daytime highs sit around 34 to 37°F (1 to 3°C), with nights dropping to 23 to 27°F (-5 to -3°C). Up north in Lapland, it’s colder, with daytime temperatures closer to 27 to 30°F (–3 to –1°C) and nighttime lows falling to 9 to 14°F (–13 to –10°C).

The Baltic Sea stays frozen or just above freezing at 32 to 34°F (0 to 1°C). Snow cover is consistent across most regions, especially in the north, where ski season is still going strong. By the end of March, daylight stretches to over 13 hours, making it easier to plan outdoor activities, even if you’re still bundling up.

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Is March a good time to visit Finland?

March is a fantastic time to visit Finland if you love winter sports and snowy landscapes. The weather in Finland in March offers near-perfect conditions for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing. 

At the same time, nights are still long enough to provide opportunities to see the Northern Lights, especially in the northern parts of the country.  However, note that the cold temperatures can still be challenging, so pack plenty of warm clothing.

March also sees smaller crowds than January and February, which means you can look forward to a more relaxed experience. For more tips, see our guide to how to plan a trip to Finland.

• Excellent winter sports conditions
• Northern Lights still visible
• Longer daylight than deep winter
• Fewer crowds than peak winter months
• Cold temperatures require warm clothing

What about the crowds & cost?

March falls at the end of the peak winter season in Finland. 

This means you'll encounter moderate crowds at ski resorts and other tourist attractions, with a significant drop in crowds from January and February. 

As a result, accommodation, excursions, and flights are likely to be less expensive compared to the peak season months.  If you're still deciding, don't miss our guide to the best time to go to Finland.

Where to go in Finland in March

March is a perfect time to wrap up winter in Finland. You still get snow and crisp air, but daylight is finally stretching out. Here are some of the best places to visit in Finland. 

Lapland (Rovaniemi)

Lapland is still covered in snow, and conditions are ideal for outdoor adventures. Skies tend to stay clear, which helps if you’re chasing the Aurora. Dogsledding, snowmobiling, and reindeer farms are all in full swing, but without the thick crowds of December. It’s cold, but manageable, and there’s enough daylight to spread out your activities. Many people choose March to stay in glass igloos or try ice fishing since it's easier to plan around the weather.

Helsinki

In Helsinki, March is still cold, but it’s a bit easier to get around. The harbor ice starts to break up, and locals begin to spend more time outside. Museums and saunas are still a big part of daily life, especially with the unpredictable weather. You’ll find strong indoor culture with art galleries, cozy restaurants, and design stores. If you want to see the city with fewer tourists but still have enough going on, this is a solid time to visit.

Finnish Lakeland (Savonlinna region)

Lakeland stays frozen through March, but that’s part of the appeal. Locals head out across frozen lakes for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and sometimes even driving. Smoke saunas along the lake shores are a big draw, especially if you’re brave enough to dip into the ice holes after. Snow tracking is another highlight, especially if you're hoping to see signs of moose or lynx. The forests are quiet, and the snow dampens everything, making for a peaceful and beautiful trip.
 

What to do in Finland in March

March is late winter, with more daylight and steadier weather. Snow sports are still going strong, and the Northern Lights are often at their best. Here are some of the best things to do in Finland.

Watch the Northern Lights

March is a great time for aurora spotting. The skies are dark enough, but the weather is often clearer than earlier in the winter. You can stay in a glass-roofed cabin, book a tour with local guides, or even head out on your own if you know where to go. The lights aren’t guaranteed, but when they show up, it’s unforgettable.

Go husky sledding

The snowpack is solid, and the trails are in great shape. Husky rides range from short loops to multi-day trips deep into the forest. You’ll learn how to steer your sled, feed the dogs, and maybe even camp out. It’s physical, peaceful, and surprisingly quiet once the sled gets moving.

Try ice fishing with sauna

Ice fishing in March means thick, safe ice and relatively mild weather. Local guides can take you out on a frozen lake, drill a hole, and show you how to catch fish using traditional methods. Most trips end with a sauna nearby, and if you’re feeling brave, a cold plunge in the ice hole. It’s very Finnish and surprisingly fun.
 

Planning your itinerary

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.