Weather in Finland in February

There are many reasons to visit Finland in February. First up, February in Finland means stepping into a snowy wonderland that provides perfect conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The weather in Finland in February is also ideal for experiencing the Northern Lights, especially in the most northerly regions. Finland also has an intriguing lineup of cultural festivals in February, among them Helsinki's Lux Festival and the Kaamos Jazz Festival. Inspired to visit? Read on for detail on the weather in Finland in February.

Finland in February at a glance

• Temperatures range from 7°F to 24°F (-14°C to -4°C ).
• Expect cold, clear, crisp days with lots of snow.
• With its beautiful landscapes and chances to experience the Northern Lights, February is the ideal month to visit Lapland.
• February is also a popular peak time for winter sports.

What is the weather like in Finland in February?

The weather in Finland in February is very cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. 

With February being the heart of winter, you'll experience frosty conditions and freezing temperatures. 

While this time of the year sees minimal rainfall, snowfall is common.

Average daily temperatures in February

Sitting in the peak of winter, February experiences some of the coldest temperatures of the year. 

The average high temperature is around 24°F (-4°C), while the average low can reach a chilling 7°F (-14°C). 

Up north, however, temperatures can be even colder, often plummeting to-22°F (-30°C).

Meanwhile, Southern Finland, including Helsinki, sees milder but still chilly temperatures, ranging from 30°F to 19°F (-1°C to -7°C).

Want more detail on the weather in Finland around the year? Read up on the best time to go to Finland.

Is February a good time to visit Finland?

The weather in Finland in February offers perfect conditions for snow-related activities. 

So, if you love winter sports and snowy landscapes. February is a great time to visit Finland.

With plenty of clear skies and long nights, you might also get to see the Northern Lights. 

Just be aware that this is the middle of winter, and the extreme cold can be challenging — be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes and suitable footwear.

Also note that February is part of the high season, so be prepared for busier ski resorts and more crowds at popular tourist sites. 

In summary, despite the cold, winter is a very special time to visit Finland, thanks to the enchanting snowy landscapes, and opportunities to see the Northern Lights.

Planning to visit Finland? Read up on the best things to do in Finland.

What about the crowds & cost?

February falls during the peak winter season in Finland, particularly in popular winter sports destinations. 

So, expect big crowds at tourist attractions and ski resorts. 

In line with this high demand, accommodation and flights are likely to be more expensive than other times of the year, and it's best to book early.

We also suggest booking excursions and ski rentals in advance.

Festivals and events in Finland in February

Read on to find out about a few of Finland's February festival highlights.

•  Helsinki Lux Festival: this light festival transform the city into a colorful winterland with beautiful light installations and art displays.
•  Kaamos Jazz Festival: held in the Arctic city of Inari, this features jazz performances from Finnish and international artists. 
•  Artic Art Festival: this celebrates the winter season with a variety of outdoor activities, ice sculptures, and cultural performances.

Heading to Helsinki? Read the Mini Rough Guide to Helsinki.

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.