Finland

Capital: Helsinki

Population: 5,623,329 (2025)

Language: The official languages are Finnish and Swedish. Finnish is spoken by the majority of the population, while Swedish is spoken natively by a smaller minority, mostly along the coast and in the Åland Islands. English is widely spoken as a second language.

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Finland is a member of both the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Area. Citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most EU nations, do not require a visa to enter Finland for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

However, starting in 2025, most visa-exempt travellers will need to complete an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) application online before travelling. This is not a visa but a mandatory pre-travel authorisation for visitors entering the Schengen Zone.

Citizens of countries that do require a visa must apply in advance for a Schengen visa, which allows travel across Finland and other Schengen countries. Applications are typically submitted through a Finnish embassy or consulate and require a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photo, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and sufficient funds.

Always check the most recent requirements on the official Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) website or the European Commission’s visa policy portal before your trip.

Finland has a subarctic to temperate climate, depending on the region, with four distinct seasons that shape the landscape and experience dramatically. The best time to visit depends on whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring forests, or enjoying summer lakeside retreats.

Winter (December to February):

Winter in Finland is long, cold, and magical — especially above the Arctic Circle, where the snow-covered wilderness transforms into a real-life winter wonderland. Temperatures in the north can drop below -30°C, while southern areas hover around -5°C to -15°C. This is the best time to experience husky sledding, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and the aurora borealis. The days are short, particularly in the north, where polar nights bring near-constant darkness.

Spring (March to May):

Spring is a transitional season, with snow melting in the south as early as March but lingering in Lapland into May. Nature begins to reawaken, with migrating birds returning and wildflowers blooming. Temperatures gradually rise from 0°C to 10°C, and days lengthen rapidly. This is a quieter time for tourism, ideal for those looking for peace, light hiking, or cultural experiences in less crowded cities.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is short but vibrant. Days are long — sometimes never-ending in the north, where the midnight sun doesn’t set at all for several weeks. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for swimming in lakes, hiking in national parks, and attending outdoor festivals. This is Finland’s high season, especially for domestic tourism. Booking accommodation in advance is advised.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn paints Finland in golden yellows, fiery reds, and deep oranges. It’s mushroom and berry-picking season, with crisp air and quieter trails. September is still relatively mild, but temperatures begin to drop sharply by late October. Lapland starts seeing snow as early as November. It’s a great time for nature lovers who want fewer crowds and enjoy scenic forest walks.