Sweden's Climate and Weather

Climate Overview

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Sweden enjoys a relatively temperate climate, at least in its southern part. Additionally, the Norwegian mountains partly shield it from rain coming from the west (though one in every three or four days sees rain year-round) and ensure fairly good sunshine.

Summer remains the most pleasant time, with temperatures exceeding 20°C, even in the north, long days allowing for 24-hour midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, and plenty of fair weather along the southern coast. Conversely, winter, which often arrives without much transition, can be harsh—snowy in the north and rainy in the south—with dry cold and temperatures starting to drop as early as late September and only rising again around May. Winter is also the best time to observe the northern lights in the north of the country.

Best Climate Period for Sweden

June to late August remains the best time to explore Sweden, enjoy nature, and engage in outdoor activities. For those who want to experience winter, December to March is ideal.

★★★: very favorable | ★★: favorable | ★: moderately favorable | ⊘: unfavorable.

Sea Temperature Throughout the Year

As expected, water temperatures aren’t very high. Only the summer period allows even the less hardy to enjoy swimming in the sea or lakes.

Climate by Region

Southern Region (Göteborg)

Central Region (Stockholm)

Lapland and Northern Region (Kiruna)

Additional Information