What to pack for Helsinki in January
- serious winter gear: insulated coat, thermal layers
- a compact umbrella or rain shell — rain is frequent
- waterproof boots — snow is likely
Humidity averages 87%; max daily wind around 26 km/h. Snow falls on about 11.2 days.
How January compares
Best months in Helsinki: June. See the full best time to visit Helsinki guide.
Helsinki in January: the details
In January, Helsinki sees average daytime highs of -1°C (31°F) and overnight lows of -6°C (22°F). Rainfall totals roughly 78 mm across 16.2 rainy days, and the sun shines about 1.5 hours per day with 6.3 hours of daylight mid-month. Relative humidity averages 87%.
In context: January is the coldest month of the year and the 5th-wettest in Helsinki. The sunniest month is June (15.4 h/day).
| Metric | January average |
|---|---|
| Daytime high | -1°C / 31°F |
| Overnight low | -6°C / 22°F |
| Rainfall | 78 mm over 16.2 rainy days |
| Sunshine | 1.5 h/day (6.3 h daylight) |
| Humidity | 87% |
| Travel score | 0.0 / 10 |
These figures are climate normals computed from the ERA5 weather reanalysis (2019–2024) for Helsinki, Finland (60.17, 24.94) — see our methodology. Actual conditions vary year to year.
Not set on Helsinki? Browse the best places to visit in January ranked by travel score.
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Helsinki in January?
Daytime highs in Helsinki in January average -1°C (31°F); nights drop to about -6°C.
Does it rain in Helsinki in January?
Expect around 16.2 rainy days and 78 mm of rainfall in January.
Is January a good time to visit Helsinki?
January is a challenging month to visit Helsinki — consider June instead. Overall travel score: 0.0/10. The best months are June.
Where should you go next month?
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