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Weather Comparison

Helsinki vs Stockholm

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Helsinki: -2°CStockholm: 0°C396 km apart

January Weather: Helsinki vs Stockholm

MetricHelsinkiStockholmBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer-2°C (28°F)0°C (32°F)Stockholm
Average LowHigher is milder-6°C (21°F)-3°C (27°F)Stockholm
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days8 daysStockholm
PrecipitationLess is drier50 mm37 mmStockholm
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier1h/day3h/dayStockholm
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better21 km/h20 km/hStockholm

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Stockholm edges ahead as the better destination in January. Stockholm offers 3 hours of daily sunshine with only 8 rain days, while Helsinki sees 1 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Helsinki is on the cooler side at -2°C, requiring warmer clothing. Stockholm is cooler at 0°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Stockholm is the stronger choice in January. Stockholm receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Helsinki reaches an average high of -2°C (28°F) and drops to -6°C (21°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Stockholm averages 0°C (32°F) for the high and -3°C (27°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Helsinki receives approximately 50 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Stockholm sees 37 mm over 8 rain days. That makes Stockholm the drier option by 3 rain days and 13 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Helsinki vs Stockholm

Packing for Helsinki in January

Highs of -2°C, lows of -6°C, 11 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Stockholm in January

Highs of 0°C, lows of -3°C, 8 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Helsinki vs Stockholm

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthHelsinkiStockholm
HighRainHighRain
Jan-2°C11d0°C8d
Feb-3°C9d1°C8d
Mar1°C9d4°C8d
Apr7°C9d9°C8d
May13°C9d14°C9d
Jun17°C12d18°C11d
Jul21°C12d21°C11d
Aug20°C12d20°C12d
Sep15°C10d16°C8d
Oct8°C12d9°C10d
Nov3°C12d5°C10d
Dec0°C12d2°C10d
-2°

Helsinki Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

0°

Stockholm Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Helsinki warmer than Stockholm in January?
No. In January, Stockholm is warmer with an average high of 0°C (32°F) compared to Helsinki at -2°C (28°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Helsinki or Stockholm?
Helsinki gets more rain in January with 11 rain days and 50 mm of precipitation. Stockholm is the drier option with 8 rain days.
Is it better to visit Helsinki or Stockholm in January?
It depends on your preferences. Helsinki averages -2°C and 1 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Stockholm averages 0°C with 3 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Stockholm. For fewer rain days, Stockholm is the better pick.
How far apart are Helsinki and Stockholm?
Helsinki and Stockholm are approximately 396 km (246 miles) apart. Helsinki is located in Finland (Europe) while Stockholm is in Sweden (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Helsinki and Stockholm?
For Helsinki, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Stockholm, June is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 18°C highs.

Compare Helsinki and Stockholm in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Helsinki coordinates: 60.17°N, 24.94°E | Stockholm coordinates: 59.33°N, 18.07°E