What's the Weather like in Helsinki in August
Temperature
August is a turning point for Helsinki, as the sea temperature and rainfall reach their highest points but the daily temperature begins to descend as the northern city heads into autumn weather. The Finnish capital experiences an average daily temperature of 15°C during August, with the average high being a beautiful 19°C and the average low dipping down to just 11°C. The mild summers in Helsinki result in many visitors coming to escape the heat, and tourism reaches a peak during the summer months.
The sea reaches its warmest temperature in August, after a hot July, at 13°C.
Rain
The warming waters result in more rain as well, and August holds the record as the rainiest month in Helsinki. Receiving an average of 90mm of rain, the month typically sees rainfall on 17 days, more than half of the month, so planning time for rainy days is important for outdoorsy tourists.
Cloud and Humidity
The days tend to be partly cloudy and the wind averages about 12-13 km/hour. Humidity peaks in the summer as well, though it remains comfortable at about 40-50 percent humidity throughout August.
Sunshine Hours
Travelers hoping for extra hours to explore the city will enjoy the long days of summer in the north. The days at the beginning of August are just under 17 hours long. However, they will dip down to just 14 hours and 15 minutes by the end of the month, as Helsinki heads into a darker winter. The sunrise starts off at 5 a.m. and the sun sets just before 22:00. By the end of the month, the sunrise is at 6:10 a.m. and the sunset is at 20:30. Though the country may be known for its snow and cold weather, visitors to Helsinki will find plenty to do in this sun-loving area as many terraces and beaches are filled with both locals and tourists.
Helsinki Hotels in August
Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel
Travelers looking for a hotel with an international reputation may wish to stay at Radisson Blu Seaside Hotel. Located near the iconic west Harbor area, the modern hotel has a convenient location for attractions such as the Hietalahti Flea Market or the Cable Factory cultural center. With 349 rooms, the large hotel features rooms with as much space as two king beds, perfect for families and groups of friends. Two-story lofts offer a city life atmosphere with beautiful harbor views. Movie fans will appreciate the movie and entertainment rooms, while foods can stop at the new Bistro Gimis for fresh seafood and Finnish meals. Other amenities include a gym and sauna, while active guests can enjoy the jogging trail along the seafront just outside the door.
Forenom Aparthotel
Forenom Aparthotel offers a new type of accommodation growing in popularity in the Finnish capital. With hotel amenities and the comforts of home, Forenom's apartment hotel offers rooms from singles up to four beds, and some doubles with kitchenettes. A central location and nearby transportation hubs make the spot perfect for a busy traveler. A downstairs restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, so hungry travelers won't have to go far to find a good meal. All rooms include WiFi, a fridge and microwave, cutlery, a shared laundry facility, a kettle and a coffee maker.
Hotel Finn
The centrally located Hotel Finn boasts accommodations at a great price. The hotel is situated on the top floors of a historical building and offers modern and intimate rooms, just a short walk from the Central Railway Station. The hotel offers a variety of packages, customizable to guests needs, size of group, and dining requests. There are 36 available rooms of varying sizes, each of which come with amenities such as WiFi and parking. Pet-friendly rooms are available as well.
Helsinki Beach for August
As the sea temperature reaches its warmest point of the year, August is a perfect time to explore the beaches of Helsinki. While still cool, Hietaranta Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. A shallow swimming area makes the area family-friendly, and anyone can enjoy a game of beach volleyball or basketball. There is a play area for children, as well as a nearby miniature golf course and a tennis center. If all of the activity makes visitors hungry, Bistro Badenbaden serves European and American cuisine.
Bars and Restaurants
Viaporin Deli and Cafe
Viaporin Deli and Cafe is a beautiful stop, with a white, rounded ceiling and bright wood floors and displays, the building feels as fresh as its food. Located on Suomenlinna island, the cafe is a perfect stop during a day of exploring the Suomenlinna Fortress. The selections include fresh-baked pastries, sandwiches, salads, and homemade soups. Beverages include beers, wines, and hot drinks for chilly days. During the summer months, visitors can also enjoy artisan ice creams. When the weather is nice, Viaporin offers a picnic basket for guests who want to enjoy their meal outdoors.
Salutorget
Set in a former bank building, the beautiful Salutorget is a fine dining option in the center of it all. Located on Pohjoiseplanadi, between Esplanadi Park and Senate Square, the restaurant is known for its elegant dining room, stately bar and welcoming outdoor terrace, which offers views of Helsinki's seafront marketplace when the weather is nice. Private dining rooms are available on the second floor for events and meetings. The menu is comprised of Scandinavian and European items, so there's something for everyone.
Casa Italia
Exposed brick and deep red walls set a warm ambiance at Casa Italia, a centrally located restaurant on Bulevardi. Paninis, pastas, and salads form the base for the restaurant, while Italian desserts like biscotti and tiramisu are the perfect ending to a meal. With a casual atmosphere that feels part-bar and part-cafe, the restaurant also offers a great selection of coffees, beers, and wines. The small layout lends itself to a cozy and social feeling, making this a great option for anyone homesick for Italian food.
Things to do in Helsinki in August
Seurasaari Open Air Museum
Only open during the summer, visitors in August should take advantage of a visit to the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum. The unique destination provides the opportunity for visitors to get a hands-on experience of Finnish history in the beautiful countryside. The museum consists of 87 different buildings, each unique to its own province. The island is a peaceful getaway from busy city life and exhibits the traditional Finnish way of life through relocated cottages, farms, and manors from the past 400 years.
The Sibelius Monument
Music and history lovers alike should add a visit to the Sibelius monument to their itineraries, located in the Töölö district of Helsinki. A landmark of the city, the monument honors Finnish composer Jean Sibelius (also the namesake of the Sibelius Academy). Finland's first abstract public monument, the steel fountain sparked debate before being completed in 1962 by Eila Hiltunen. The work is designed to represent the essence of the famous composer's music.
Helsinki at Night
Though the sun starts to set a little earlier in late August, the weather remains comfortable, making this an excellent time of year to enjoy Helsinki at night. As the city lights up in a beautiful glow, tourists can enjoy a walk along the harbor, with sights of the ferris wheel and historical buildings. Many bars and restaurants spring to life, making a night out particularly fun for adults ready to relax after a long day of sightseeing.
