Spending summer in Sweden is something that many travelers put on their travel lists. Sweden offers a unique experience in summer as it is the time for light, warmth, and a celebration of nature. The country transforms into a haven of lush greenery, sparkling lakes, and vibrant festivals that you surely can’t miss.
If you’re searching for a vacation in Sweden during the summer, this guide has a detailed overview of weather insights, celebrations, attractions, packing tips, and more.
Is It Good to Spend Summer in Sweden?
Listed below are a few reasons that make it the best time to visit Sweden during summer:
- Explore Swedish culture and landscape
- Sustainability and eco-friendly destinations
- Rich wildlife and bird-watching
- Refreshing Swedish sauna and swimming
- Experience the midnight sun phenomenon
Weather Guide for Summer in Sweden
|
Month |
Average Temperature (°C) |
Daylight Hours |
Weather Conditions |
Rainfall |
|
June |
10°C – 20°C |
18-20 hours |
Pleasant, mild temperatures, long days |
Occasional rain |
|
July |
15°C – 25°C |
18-20 hours |
Warm, sunny days with cooler evenings |
Some rain |
|
August |
14°C – 23°C |
16-18 hours |
Warm but starts to cool down towards the month’s end |
Rare |
Top Tourist Attractions in Sweden in Summer
Mentioned below are a few interesting places that you must add to your Sweden travel list:
1. Stockholm
This is the capital city of Sweden, which houses around fourteen islands connected by more than fifty bridges. This place features a mixture of historic landmarks, beautiful scenery, and cultural institutions that give the city its distinct beauty.
You can find exciting modern-day attractions that make it a popular place to visit during summer in Sweden.
Major Attractions
- Gamla Stan (Old Town)
- Vasa Museum
- ABBA The Museum
- Skansen Open-Air Museum
- Fjäderholmarna
2. Gothenburg
This Swedish city is famous for its maritime history, vibrant cultural scene, and gorgeous parklands. You can find a range of activities and attractions in Gothenburg with some stunning views, making it the top photography spot in Sweden during summer.
This is a lively city that offers natural wonders for the locals and tourists to explore at their best.
Major Attractions
- Liseberg Amusement Park
- Universeum Science Center
- Gothenburg Museum of Art
- Feskekôrka (Fish Church)
- Gothenburg Archipelago
3. Uppsala
You can find this place popular for its botanical gardens, which are steeped in Swedish culture and history. This place has been a significant educational and religious hub for centuries. You can find this city alive with a fusion of ancient customs, academic events, music festivals, and art exhibits.
Major Attractions
- Uppsala Cathedral
- Botaniska Trädgården
- Uppsala University
- Gustavianum
- Carolina Rediviva Library
4. Helsingborg
This is a beautiful coastal city in Sweden known for its rich history and lovely waterfront. The visitors can find an active cultural scene in Helsingborg as this place offers a lot to do.
You can explore different cuisines at exclusive waterfront dining restaurants and visit some casual eateries and cafes. The place is close to Denmark, which makes it a stunning city to see in the southern part of Sweden.
Major Attractions
- Kärnan Tower
- Helsingborg Harbour
- Sofiero Palace and Gardens
- Fredriksdal Open-Air Museum
- Slottshagen Park
Exciting Festivals in Sweden During Summer
Summer in Sweden gives you an outstanding opportunity to explore some of the best events and festivals like:
1. Midsummer
This is the most cherished celebration during summer in Sweden, where locals celebrate the solstice of summer. You can find folks gathering around maypoles, performing traditional dances, singing live, and doing other activities.
The visitors can enjoy fresh potatoes, pickled herring, and fresh strawberries. This festival is a symbol of Swedish customs and an emblem attached to nature.
Key Attractions
- A vibrant celebration of Swedish culture, nature, and traditions
- People dance to traditional Swedish folk music around the pole called Midsommarstång
- Swedes wear flower crowns made from wildflowers
- Enjoy traditional Swedish food like Pickled herring and Crispbread
Where: Nationwide, with special celebrations in rural areas like Dalarna
When: Late June
2. Stockholm Pride
This festival marks the biggest pride festival in Sweden, which energetically and vibrantly celebrates LGBTQ+ rights. The festival features an entire week of celebrations, performances, parades, and discussions.
The visitors can enjoy the big Pride Parade that goes across the city, attracting thousands of people who participate and watch.
Key Attractions
- Experience colorful costumes, music, and a strong message of equality in the Pride Parade
- Engage in conversations about human rights, politics, and social issues
- Performances from popular Swedish and international musicians
Where: Stockholm
When: Late July or early August
3. Göteborgs Kulturkalas
This is a free festival that brings together art, music, food, and theater and attracts locals and tourists. The celebration inGöteborgs Kulturkalas marks creativity and culture, featuring performances at various venues throughout the city. These include dancing, open-air concerts, and street food markets.
Key Attractions
- Annual cultural festival with vibrant events
- Highlights local food culture with International and Swedish cuisine
- Activities like workshops, interactive exhibits, and performances
Where: Gothenburg
When: Mid-August
4. Luleå Medieval Festival
This is a vibrant medieval-themed festival that takes place in the tiny town of Lulea during summer in Sweden. The visitors can find jousting tournaments, reenactment markets, medieval reenactments, and other shows. This festival takes the visitors on an experience that dates back to the medieval era with traditional costumes and lots of fun.
Key Attractions
- The Festival celebrates medieval history and culture
- Features reenactments of battles, medieval life, and historical events
- Enjoy medieval-style foods like roasted meats, bread, and pastries
- Try medieval crafts, archery, or sword fighting
Where: Luleå, northern Sweden
When: Early August
5. Uppsala Reggae Festival
This is a reggae-themed music festival that attracts people from around the world who love the genre. You can find this in the city of Uppsala, which features Swedish and international reggae musicians with a relaxed and positive atmosphere.
Key Attractions
- Annual music festival
- Features performances by established and emerging reggae artists
- A fun festival that celebrates music and positive messages of unity and peace
- Homes lively atmosphere, cultural exchange, and diverse audience
Where: Uppsala
When: Late July
6. Midnight Sun Film Festival
The locals celebrate this film festival during summer in Sweden to showcase unique, independent films in a stunning northern setting. The festival celebrates the nature and beauty of the area by hosting different outdoor activities during the evening sun. The visitors can experience a surreal experience of watching films in broad daylight to late at night.
Key Attractions
- Features many events and screenings in the outdoors
- Explore Swedish film and foreign cinema
- Various genres like documentary and drama
- The Festival embraces the natural beauty of the region
Where: Kiruna
When: June
7. Båstad Tennis Week
This is the most celebrated tennis tournament that you can find in the quaint coastal town of Båstad. You can find the best tennis players across the globe attending this event. This tennis week is a blend of high-end activities and social events with a laid-back beachside vibe. The visitors can explore a long-lasting tennis celebration that combines sportsmanship with social fun.
Key Attractions
- A professional tennis tournament which is not less than a festival
- Thousands of visitors flock to watch high-level tennis
- Features various cultural activities and a festive atmosphere
- Includes concerts, social events, and opportunities to enjoy the beautiful beaches and restaurants
Where: Båstad
When: Early July
Top Activities During Sweden in Summer
Listed below are a few interesting activities that you can put on your list when coming for summer in Sweden:
1. Go on a Moose Safari
This is a truly unforgettable wildlife adventure you must consider when coming to Sweden. You can find the majestic animals roaming freely around the forest with numerous tour operators who provide guided safaris.
Visitors in summer in Sweden can spot moose in their natural surroundings while exploring Swedish animals like wild boars, reindeer, and different birds.
2. Relax in a Swedish Spa
This is an excellent opportunity to get a relaxed summertime getaway. Traditional Swedish spa resorts likeYstad Saltsjobad andFalkenberg Strandbad are a few popular options on the coast. You can explore the lavish treatments with stunning views of the sea saunas and hot spas.
3. Hike in National Parks
The summer months in Sweden make the place a paradise for nature lovers. The visitors can go on some outdoor adventures in Sweden in the summer and explore the breathtaking national parks. Some long-distance routes includeKungsleden Trail, which offers stunning views of the rugged beauty of Sweden’s Lapland.
4. Explore the Archipelago
You can explore the Swedish archipelago, which is an amazing collection of islands along the East Coast that extends to Stockholm.
The visitors can enjoy kayaking, boating, and island-hopping, which makes it among the top activities to do in Sweden during summer. You can hire boats, go on an excursion with a guide, or spend the night at cozy cottages with rustic decor on the island.
5. Experience Midnight Sun in the North
Visitors to Sweden can experience the most memorable summer adventure, which is the midnight sun, where it never gets dark in the Arctic Circle during summer. This is a great time to enjoy the outdoors anytime in the evening and go fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing in the sun.
6. Visit the Historic Sites
Visitors to Sweden can find several charming cities with many options for exploring historic sites. You can visit the capital city of Stockholm and find the best of modern architecture, historic buildings, and royal palaces there. You can visit Gamla Stan or the Vasa Museum to explore the 17th-century warship.
What to Pack For Summer in Sweden?
After you are clear about the weather and activities in Sweden, it’s now time to get some packing tips for summer in Sweden:
|
Category |
Items |
|
Clothing |
Lightweight t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and blouses |
|
A sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings |
|
|
Lightweight waterproof or windproof jacket |
|
|
Jeans, comfortable pants |
|
|
Shorts or skirts |
|
|
Casual dresses |
|
|
Swimwear |
|
|
Comfortable shoes |
|
|
Accessories |
Sunglasses |
|
Hats |
|
|
Light scarf for chilly evenings |
|
|
Backpack or daypack for excursions |
|
|
Toiletries |
Sunscreen |
|
Insect repellent |
|
|
Toothbrush, shampoo, soap |
|
|
Personal medication, if any |
|
|
Other Essentials |
Travel adapter |
|
Camera or smartphone |
|
|
Power bank |
|
|
Umbrella |
|
|
Travel documents |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is summer a good time to visit Sweden?
Yes. For some good reasons, such as the midnight sun, safe weather, rich wildlife, festivities, and more.
What to wear in Sweden during summer?
For summer in Sweden, you can wear casual dresses, comfortable pants, lightweight T-shirts, and more.
Is Sweden cheaper in summer?
Sweden sees its peak tourist time in summer and you must book your accommodation and flights prior for an affordable trip.
What are some things to do in Sweden in summer?
Some options include relaxing in a Swedish Spa and visiting some historic sites.
What are some budget tips for traveling to Sweden in the summer?
- Book your hotels or accommodation in advance
- Use public transport where possible
- Look for free or low-cost attractions and activities
Can you swim in Sweden during the summer?
Yes. You can take a refreshing dip in a Swedish sauna.
Can you experience celebrations and festivals in Sweden during winter?
Yes. You can enjoy the Uppsala Reggae Festival, Midnight Sun Film Festival, and more.
Which seasonal foods in Sweden during summer can you try?
Some include Wallenbergare, the delicious Pyttipanna, and the savory Biff Rydberg.
