11 Budget Winter Activities in Helsinki

Helsinki in the Wintertime

Visiting Helsinki in wintertime offers an excellent chance for an active holiday. The city has many attractions that can keep visitors busy and entertained. You can also try many winter activities in Helsinki. From skiing to ice skating, there is something for everyone. Helsinki also has a wide range of cultural and historical sites to explore during winter. With all these activities and attractions, Helsinki provides an excellent winter holiday opportunity.

In Helsinki, winter usually starts late. Snowfall is common at the end of December or the beginning of January—the Gulf of Finland stores tremendous summer heat, which delays the onset of Helsinki’s seasons. Typically, February is the coldest month, but the winter season can stretch into March.

Helsinki’s winter can also be quite unpredictable. In some years, the temperature may remain above zero for too long, resulting in wet and drab days. However, there are years in which snow is plentiful and the temperature stays below zero for prolonged periods—these are the ideal times to experience the wonders of wintry Helsinki, such as ice swimming.

If you want to experience winter and city life at its best, Helsinki is a great place to do so and participate in various winter activities. If your primary focus is winter activities, Lapland is the ideal destination to ensure you get snow.

When is Winter?

Winter Activities in Helsinki

City Saunas

We highly recommend you experience a Finnish sauna if you’re visiting Finland in winter. Helsinki Centre is home to a few of them, and our article can help you become familiar with Finnish sauna culture. Don’t miss out on this unique sauna opportunity in Finland!

We recommend visiting a Finnish sauna, one of Helsinki’s best winter activities.

Dipping in the Cold Water

Swimming in icy water has become a popular experience in recent years. People are attracted to immersing themselves in water at a sub-zero temperature, and many consider this activity an exhilarating and refreshing way to enjoy the natural elements.

Sauna and ice swimming make a great pair. Though not everyone likes the idea, the sensation afterwards is unmatched. Löyly ja Kulttuurisauna and other public saunas in the Helsinki Centre also allow you to dip in the sea. Combining the two is the only feasible way to experience the full effects.

Those who have not yet tried ice swimming may be unaware of the potential health benefits, but they should know that transitioning from hot to cold can shock the body. For safety reasons, it’s advisable to consult your doctor before taking any action.

Ice Skating

Ice skating can be a fun activity. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and offers a great form of exercise. Skaters can enjoy the challenge of mastering new skills, perfecting their techniques, or simply gliding around the ice. Ice skating can be a great way to spend time with family and friends, or by yourself.

Brahe Sports Field is one of the many places to ice skate near the city centre in winter. With skate rentals available from the café, it’s an ideal spot for outdoor skating. After all your hard work, why not warm yourself with a hot chocolate?

If you have no experience in ice skating, you may feel a bit apprehensive. Yet, with some courage, it can be one of Helsinki’s most rewarding winter activities. Indeed, it is a popular pastime among Finns.

Cross-Country Skiing in the Suburbs of Helsinki

In Finland, cross-country skiing is a mandatory part of the school curriculum. Those visiting Helsinki can go skiing on many trails. A lack of snow is not an issue, as the routes are artificially covered with snow.

Paloheinä is an ideal spot to start if you’re a novice skier. You can rent skis there and even attend courses. Paloheinä is only 30 30-minute bus ride away from the Helsinki Centre.

Grilling Near the Frozen Sea

Have you ever tried barbecuing outdoors in the cold winter? CCafé Regatta, a cosy café close to the shoreline of Helsinki’s city centre, has the perfect setting. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee indoors or cook a sausage outside on the campfire.

Although we are in Helsinki, the atmosphere of this ccaféhas a certain exotic quality.

Walking on the Ice

Walking on the frozen sea, often referred to as “ice walking,” can be an exhilarating experience. It’s an adventure that allows you to explore icy waters while taking in spectacular views and perhaps spotting some wildlife. Ice walking requires a lot of preparation, including unique gear and layers of clothing. Safety measures, such as having a guide or a partner, are essential before setting out on an ice-walking journey.

In January and February, the sea usually freezes with a sturdy layer of ice. Walking on the ice can give you a sense of liberation. Nevertheless, it is never advisable to go alone, and asking the locals if the ice is secure is recommended. If you do fall in, it’s wise to bring some safety gear.

We recommend trying ice walking. However, it is best to do so with someone familiar with the activity. Unexpectedly, plunging into frigid water is not the ice swimming experience you hope for.

Going to Pubs

One of the popular activities many people enjoy is visiting bars. A great way to have a fun evening with friends is to go to a pub and socialise. You can order drinks, listen to music, and meet new people. Karaoke is also popular in Helsinki. A night at the bar is always exciting, and you can spend time with friends.

At one point, there was an ice bar in Helsinki where everything was built from ice. Sadly, it no longer exists, but it won’t be long before a new one is established. In the meantime, there are many great bars in the Helsinki Centre that you can visit if you’d prefer a warmer atmosphere.

Snowboarding

Snowboarding is a popular winter activity for those who enjoy the thrill of gliding down a snow-covered slope. It’s a great way to experience the outdoors and have fun in winter. Snowboarders can be found worldwide, enjoying the slopes and beautiful scenery. From beginner to expert, there are plenty of challenges and adventures to be had.

Cross-country skiing is less popular among young Finns than downhill skiing, which may be due to its more thrilling nature.

Helsinki Centre is not ideal for downhill skiing or snowboarding since there are no nearby mountains. The south of Finland has a relatively flat terrain, making it unsuitable for winter sports. However, snowboarding is also possible in Helsinki if you’re willing to travel a little further.

Strolling in the Snowy Suomenlinna

Guides about Helsinki will tell you that Suomenlinna is a fortress located in southern Helsinki. It was once used for military purposes. Its history is rich, and the landscape is breathtaking. During summer, tourists flock to explore its beauty, and travel experts highly recommend it.

You should be aware that the winter winds can be very frigid. Few services are operational besides a supermarket and a restaurant with its brewery. To get to Suomenlinna Island, one can board the public ferry from the market square, which comes about once an hour. A Helsinki region public transportation ticket is all you need.

Exploring Suomenlinna in winter is a different option, but the islands are incredibly thrilling. They become awfully dark, icy, and heavily snow-covered at night. There won’t be many people around, so you’ll forget you are in the heart of the capital city.

Sledging Down Hills

Going down a hill on a sledge can be an exhilarating experience. The wind in your face, the feeling of flying, and the cold water splashing all around you are just a few of the thrills that come with sledging. It can be a thrilling way to spend an afternoon and a great way to get wet!

Children eagerly anticipate the winter season because of the opportunity to sledge, even if it means getting soaked.

It is suggested that one should take the time to look into a noteworthy article about sledging in Helsinki.

If you’re looking for a spot to go sledging, Kaivopuisto Park, situated by the seaside, is a great option. It’s a mere 30-minute walk from the city centre, or you can take the tram. Plastic sledging trays can be purchased from larger supermarkets for a few euros.

Gazing at the Stars Above a Frozen Lake

In Helsinki, the coldest days are characterised by clear skies. While the northern lights are rare in the city, one can still witness the enchanting sight of a starry sky. To fully experience this magical display, a short drive outside of Helsinki, perhaps to one of the numerous lakes, is required. The combination of frigid air, snow-covered landscapes, and serene surroundings can provide a truly magical escape for urban dwellers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Helsinki in the Coldest Months of the Year

Winter is one of the best times to visit Helsinki. This is when the city is at its coldest, and some people say that the Finnish capital shows its other beauty when covered by snow. Temperatures drop to freezing levels, and snow covers the landscape, creating a picturesque winter wonderland. December, January, and February are the best times to experience Helsinki’s winter charm. In December, you can warm up with Glögg in the Helsinki Christmas markets.

We suggest arriving between January and February for a genuine Finnish Winter. Furthermore, after Christmas is a great time to visit, as sales are usually available. Additionally, it is more likely that snow will have already fallen in Helsinki by January.

While temperatures remain relatively low during March, the length of daylight increases, and there may be glimpses of sunshine. Nights can become chilly, but the days can become warmer. This time suits a visit, but we suggest arriving in early March to ensure the snow is still on the ground.

The Appropriate Way of Dressing on Cold Days

In Finland, it is not difficult to decide what to wear indoors. Your typical wardrobe will suffice, as the buildings are kept warm throughout the country.

When participating in outdoor activities, you’ll need to dress appropriately. Warm pants and long underwear are essential to staying comfortable. Socks should be thick enough to keep feet warm, and any spaces between clothing should be minimised to avoid letting in cold air. Additionally, wear gloves, a scarf, and a hat.

At temperatures near 0, your clothes are likely sufficient. But if the thermometer drops to -20 degrees, you must be more mindful. Wear at least three distinct layers, with room between them to ensure maximum insulation. Additionally, protect your head and ears. A face cream for extreme cold temperatures is also advisable in particularly frigid weather. Speak with your local pharmacy to determine the best option for you.

Bottom Line

Helsinki experiences four distinct seasons, with winter being particularly noteworthy. Despite the cold temperatures, the frozen landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, offering breathtaking views. If you’re not fond of extreme cold, don’t worry! Helsinki also has plenty of indoor activities, including saunas, to keep you warm and entertained during the winter. The best part is that visiting Helsinki during winter is affordable, and you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank to enjoy winter activities.

For an optimal winter experience, we suggest planning your trip for January or February. Remember that Helsinki’s weather can be unpredictable, ranging from cold and crisp to rainy. It’s advisable to be prepared for various conditions and adjust your plans accordingly. Embrace indoor attractions during inclement weather, and make the most of the winter Activities in Helsinki when the weather is at its best, basking in the winter sun. Helsinki offers the perfect blend of cultural attractions and winter activities for visitors.