Varkaus, Finland: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Varkaus, Finland? If you're planning to go to Varkaus, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Varkaus, Finland

Based on the climate and weather in Varkaus, Finland, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Varkaus, Finland

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Varkaus, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Varkaus, Finland by month

January

January in Varkaus is unbearably cold. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Varkaus can be bitter cold. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Varkaus is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Varkaus is cold. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

Traveling to Varkaus in June, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Varkaus is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you are traveling to Varkaus in August, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Varkaus can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Varkaus can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November is frigid. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Varkaus can be bitter cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Finland has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Varkaus. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you plan to go to the charming Church of Varkaus, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Museum of Mechanical Music, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Varkaus, Finland

Varkaus, located in eastern Finland, is a hidden gem with a range of attractions to explore. From stunning lakes and forests to historic landmarks, this city has something to offer every traveler. Here are the top tourist attractions in Varkaus:

1. Taipale Canal Museum: This museum is located in the old Canal House and gives a comprehensive overview of the history of the canal in Taipale, which was built in the early 19th century. Visitors can learn about the locks and the various boats that passed through the canal.

2. Pyhäniemi Manor: This manor was once owned by the famous Finnish writer Elias Lönnrot, who is best known for compiling the Kalevala, a Finnish epic poem. The manor is now used as a cultural center and hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

3. Steam Locomotive Park: This open-air museum pays tribute to the railway history of Finland. Visitors can explore several old steam locomotives, walk through the carriages, and learn about the significance of the railway system in Finnish history.

4. Lake Saimaa: Varkaus is located on the shores of Lake Saimaa, which is the fourth largest lake in Europe. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is also home to several small islands that can be reached by boat.

5. Varkaus Church: This historic church was built in 1934 and is famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows. It also houses an impressive organ that was built in 1968 by the famous Finnish organ builder Veikko Virtanen.

6. Varkaus Museum: This local history museum showcases the history of Varkaus and the surrounding areas. Visitors can learn about the lives of the people who lived in this region throughout history, including the lumberjacks and the canal workers.

7. Art Centre Väinölä: This art gallery is located in a beautiful old building on the shores of Lake Saimaa. It hosts a variety of art exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both local and international artists.

Overall, Varkaus offers a range of attractions that reflect the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Finnish city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Springville, Utah, United States of America, Walnut Creek, California, United States of America, Pringle Bay, South Africa, Santa Rosa, New Mexico, United States of America, Bellingham, Washington, United States of America, Burgenland, Austria, Mogi-Mirim, São Paulo, Brazil, Buba, Guinea-Bissau, Gdańsk, Poland, Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada, and Ko Chang, Thailand.