Finland in December is a magical experience, especially for travellers who want to see snow-covered landscapes, experience the Northern Lights and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Finnish Lapland. From the elegant streets of Helsinki to the Arctic wilderness of Rovaniemi, December offers a completely different side of Finland.
For Indian travellers planning a winter holiday, December is particularly attractive because you can combine Northern Lights, Santa Claus Village, husky rides, reindeer experiences, Glass Igloo stays and an Icebreaker Cruise in one trip.
If you are planning your journey, explore Make More Holidays’ Finland holiday packages to find customizable itineraries across Finland and the wider Nordic region.
What Is Finland Like in December?
December marks the beginning of Finland’s deep winter season. In Lapland, temperatures can fall well below freezing, while Helsinki and southern Finland generally experience milder winter conditions.
According to Visit Finland, winter experiences such as skiing, snowshoeing and other snow activities are generally available from December to March in Lapland and Lakeland. Lapland also experiences the polar night, known as kaamos, during the darkest part of winter.
For travellers heading north, proper winter clothing is essential. Thermal layers, an insulated jacket, warm boots, gloves, a hat and woollen socks should be part of your packing list.
For detailed seasonal information, check the official Finland weather and climate guide from Visit Finland.
Can You See the Northern Lights in Finland in December?
Yes, December is a good time to experience the Northern Lights in Finland, particularly in Finnish Lapland.
Visit Finland notes that December and January bring polar-night conditions to much of Lapland. The long, dark nights can create excellent conditions for Aurora viewing when skies are clear.
However, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so a sighting cannot be guaranteed. Staying for multiple nights and travelling away from artificial light can improve your chances.
Make More Holidays offers Finland itineraries that combine Northern Lights experiences with Glass Igloo stays, Rovaniemi and other Arctic activities. One example is the Finland Arctic Winter Escape with Tallinn, which includes Aurora experiences and a Glass Igloo stay.
Best Places to Visit in Finland in December
1. Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is one of the most popular destinations for a December holiday in Finland. Located in Lapland, it combines snowy Arctic scenery with Christmas experiences and winter activities.
The city is promoted as the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, and Santa Claus Village is located on the Arctic Circle. Visitors can meet Santa Claus, experience Christmas-themed attractions and enjoy activities such as reindeer and husky experiences.
You can also explore Make More Holidays’ Finland winter itinerary with Rovaniemi, Glass Igloo and Icebreaker Cruise, which combines several of Lapland’s signature experiences.
2. Helsinki
Helsinki offers a different December experience. Instead of Arctic wilderness, you get Nordic architecture, waterfront views, cafés, museums and a festive winter atmosphere.
It is also a convenient starting point before travelling north towards Finnish Lapland.
3. Saariselkä
Saariselkä is a great choice for travellers looking for a quieter Arctic environment. Surrounded by Lapland’s wilderness, it is well suited to winter activities and Northern Lights experiences.
Best Things to Do in Finland in December
Stay in a Glass Igloo
A Glass Igloo stay is one of Finland’s most memorable winter experiences. These specially designed accommodations allow you to enjoy Arctic surroundings from the comfort of your room and, if the conditions are right, potentially watch the Northern Lights from above.
Make More Holidays’ Private Finland Winter Itinerary includes an overnight Glass Igloo stay in Finnish Lapland.
Visit Santa Claus Village
December is an especially atmospheric time to visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. You can meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.
The official Visit Rovaniemi guide to Santa Claus provides information about the experience and activities available there.
Go Husky or Reindeer Sledding
Husky sledding and reindeer rides are classic Lapland experiences. Travelling through snowy forests and Arctic landscapes makes these activities particularly memorable during December.
Experience an Icebreaker Cruise
For something truly different, add an Icebreaker Cruise to your Finland itinerary. These cruises take travellers through frozen Arctic waters and offer a unique perspective of the winter Baltic region.
Make More Holidays currently offers an Icebreaker Cruise & Northern Lights Adventure combining Finland with other Nordic destinations and Arctic experiences.
Enjoy a Finnish Sauna
A Finnish sauna is another experience worth adding to your December itinerary. After spending time outdoors in the cold, relaxing in a traditional sauna can be the perfect way to experience an important part of Finnish culture.
What to Wear in Finland in December?
Finland in December can be extremely cold, particularly in Lapland. Instead of relying on one heavy layer, use multiple warm layers.
Pack:
- Thermal base layers
- Insulated winter jacket
- Warm trousers
- Woollen socks
- Waterproof winter boots
- Gloves or mittens
- Warm hat
- Scarf or neck warmer
If you are booking winter activities, check whether the operator provides additional thermal clothing or equipment.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Finland?
Yes. Indian passport holders require a visa to travel to Finland and the Schengen Area. The official Finland Abroad website provides the current application process and documentation requirements.
You can check the official Finland visa application information for India before starting your application.
Make More Holidays also provides visa assistance and documentation support with its Finland winter packages.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Finland?
Yes, especially if your dream holiday includes snow, Northern Lights and Arctic experiences.
Finland in December allows you to combine the city life of Helsinki with the snowy landscapes of Lapland. You can meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, search for the Northern Lights, stay inside a Glass Igloo, ride with huskies or reindeer and even experience an Icebreaker Cruise.
If you are planning a Finland holiday from India, explore Make More Holidays’ Finland packages and create a customized itinerary around your preferred destinations, activities and travel dates
Frequently Asked Questions About Finland in December
1. Is December a good time to visit Finland?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Finland if you want to experience snow, Christmas attractions, Northern Lights and winter activities, especially in Finnish Lapland.
2. How cold is Finland in December?
Finland can be very cold in December, particularly in Lapland. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, so warm thermal layers, insulated boots, gloves and a winter jacket are essential.
3. Can you see the Northern Lights in Finland in December?
Yes. December is part of Finland’s Northern Lights season, and the long, dark nights in Lapland can provide good opportunities to see the Aurora when weather and solar activity conditions are favourable.
4. Which is the best place to visit in Finland in December?
Rovaniemi is one of the best choices for a December holiday because of Santa Claus Village, Arctic activities and access to Northern Lights experiences. Helsinki is also worth visiting for its winter city atmosphere.
5. What are the best things to do in Finland in December?
Popular activities include Northern Lights hunting, visiting Santa Claus Village, husky and reindeer rides, staying in a Glass Igloo, snowmobile tours, Icebreaker Cruises and experiencing a traditional Finnish sauna.
6. Do Indians need a visa to visit Finland?
Yes. Indian passport holders generally need a Schengen visa to travel to Finland. Travellers should check the latest requirements through the official Finland Abroad website before applying.
