Sweden

Climate in Sweden

Sweden has three different climatic zones that are influenced by its wide range of latitudes, the warming effect of the Gulf Stream, the shape of its land, and how close different areas are to the sea. The south has an oceanic climate, the centre has a humid continental climate, and the north has a subarctic climate.

Summers in the south and centre of Sweden are warm and pleasant, with average high temperatures ranging between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC). In the winter, temperatures in these regions average between 25ºF and 36ºF (-4ºC and 2ºC).

The north is substantially colder and has short, cool summers, and long, snowy winters, while temperatures frequently drop below freezing between September and May. Rain is possible in Sweden at any time of year, but is most common in late summer. The southwest of the country receives the most rain.

The best time to visit is in the summer months from June to August, when the days are long and warm, and the open-air museums and restaurants are open. As summer is the most busy and expensive time to visit Sweden, some travellers prefer to go in the spring or autumn, which are both very pleasant seasons and are far less crowded.