Weather in Finland in March

updated 20.09.2024

As cold winter days slowly shift into spring, the weather in Finland in March still offers the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis and enjoy winter sports. Besides outdoor activities, you can also enjoy plenty of festivals, including the Helsinki Handicraft Fair and the Oulu Music Festival. At the same time, you'll get to experience the serene beauty of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests as the days begin to get longer, and peak winter season winds down. Inspired to visit? Read on for the lowdown on the weather in Finland in March.

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.
northern-lights-lapland-vasattoka-finland-shutterstock_784223482

The conditions and weather in Finland in March are still good for seeing the Northern Lights © Shutterstock

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.

Average daily temperatures in March

The weather in Finland in March experiences a gradual warming trend. 

The average high temperature during this month sits around 32°F (0°C), while the average low can dip to 14°F (-10°C ).

In northern regions, temperatures can still be significantly lower, often plummeting to -4°F (-20°C). 

Meanwhile, Southern Finland, including Helsinki, sees milder but still chilly temperatures, ranging from 36°F to 25°F (2°C to -4°C).

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

Skiing on a track in winter Finland © canadastock/Shutterstock

Skiing on a track in Finland © canadastock/Shutterstock

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.

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

Presidential Palace and Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki © Shutterstock

Presidential Palace and Uspenski Cathedral, Helsinki © Shutterstock

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. 

Festivals and events in Finland in March

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

  • Helsinki Handicraft Fair: this showcases unique Finish craftsmanship and design. It's a must-visit for those seeking unique and authentic pieces.
  • Oulu Music Festival: held in Oulu, this showcases a music performances from classical to contemporary, and features Finnish and international artists.
  • Lapland Reindeer Championship Races: this unique event in Inari is a thrilling spectacle that sees reindeer race across the frozen lake, offering a glimpse into Sami culture.
Turku Castle at morning sun with green springtime trees and park in Turku, Finland © Shutterstock

Turku Castle, Finland © Shutterstock

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.
Rough Guides Editors

written by
Rough Guides Editors

updated 20.09.2024

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