The southwestern region of Finland enjoys a relatively milder climate compared to the rest of the country. With an annual average temperature ranging from approximately 5.0 to 7.5 °C (41.0 to 45.5 °F), this area experiences gentle winters and pleasant, warm summers. The proximity to the Baltic Sea helps moderate the climate, preventing extreme temperature fluctuations and creating favorable conditions for agriculture, outdoor living, and a longer growing season. Cities like Turku and its surroundings benefit from this temperate weather, attracting both residents and visitors who appreciate a more comfortable year-round climate.
In contrast, the northeastern part of Finland, particularly the Lapland region, is known for its much colder and more extreme climate. Here, the average annual temperatures range from 0 to −4 °C (32 to 25 °F), and the winters are long, dark, and harsh, often accompanied by heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures that can last for several months. Summers are short and cool, although they offer the unique experience of the Midnight Sun, when daylight persists almost 24 hours a day. The climatic difference between the southwest and northeast is not just a matter of temperature—it also shapes the lifestyle, activities, and even architecture of the regions, with northern areas adapting to more rugged conditions and colder seasons.
This regional variation in climate highlights the diverse natural environment of Finland, from the relatively moderate coastal areas to the arctic wilderness of the north, each offering its own unique beauty and way of life.
