When Is the Best Time to Visit Sweden?

Whether it's the magical Lapland coated in a glistening white blanket in the winter or the cosmopolitan city of Stockholm bustling with visitors in the summer, Sweden is a delight to visit at any time of the year.

However, depending on what activity you want to do, some planning ahead is always necessary.

This is your guide to the best time to visit Sweden.

Climate and seasons in Sweden

Winter

Dec-Feb

Due to its global position, each winter in Sweden (and the rest of Scandinavia) brings with it plenty of fresh white snow. The months of December through to February see the most covering, making it ideal for anyone wishing to visit for skiing, snow-shoeing, sledding or snowmobiling.

Spring

Mar-May

As the snow starts to melt in March, the rivers rise and waterfalls become more thunderous. Flower in bloom are a common scene in April and May, which makes for spectacular landscapes. This is generally a great time to pursue outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Summer

Jun-Aug

As with most places across Europe, the cities come alive in summer; side streets that were once abandoned in the gloom of winter are filled with people enjoying the endless days. Between Jun and August is also a great time to explore the many islands of Stockholm or Gothenburg.

Autumn

Sep-Nov

September through to November, autumn in Sweden, is another perfect time to visit for outdoor activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Meander through the fjords and around the lakes as the surrounding forestry turns a fiery shade of orange.

Best time to...

Experience summer solstice

June

In the warmer summer months, Scandinavian countries can expect to experience 18 hours of daylight per day, meaning that it hardly gets dark. To make the most of these beautiful hours of sunshine, the longest day of the year, summer solstice, is celebrated seriously. Sweden even takes the day is a bank holiday. Watch or take part in traditional midsummer events such as bonfires, feasts, wildflower picking and dances.

Visit Lapland

Nov-Feb

Blanketed in snow from November onwards, Lapland is a magical winter wonderland for adults and children alike. Wrap up in your warmest clothing to take part in activities such as sledding, snow shoeing, snow mobiling or even ice fishing. This is also a perfect time to visit for the Northern Lights and to meet the local Sami people whose reindeer herding goes back thousands of years.

Go on a city break

Apr-Oct

While the cities of Sweden certainly look beautiful in the snowy winter months, the reality of exploring the attractions is not quite as romantic! It's best to take a city break between the months of April and October when the snow has cleared and the streets are alive with life again.

Enjoy outdoor activities

All year round

Sweden is one of the countries where you can enjoy outdoor activities all year round. Visit the wonderland of Lapland in winter where you can go sledding, snow shoeing, skiing and snow mobiling, or take a trip into the countryside for hiking, cycling, kayaking and canoeing from spring through to autumn.