Finland has a subarctic climate in the north and a humid continental climate in the south, with dramatic seasonal contrast. Helsinki averages -4°C in January and 17°C in July, while Lapland drops to -15°C in winter with reliable snow from November to April. Summer in Lapland brings the midnight sun from late May to late July, with temperatures of 15-20°C ideal for hiking and fishing. The best months for Helsinki and southern Finland are June through August when daylight extends past 11 PM. Autumn foliage (ruska) peaks in Lapland in mid-September, drawing photographers and hikers. Northern lights season in Lapland runs from late August to early April, with peak activity around the equinoxes in September and March.
