The best time to visit Stockholm is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, autumn and spring are also good times to visit. Winter can be magical, but it is worth keeping in mind that many attractions close during this season.
Here is a month-by-month guide to help you plan your trip:
January
The Scandinavian winters have very little daylight, with an average of only two hours in January. The winds are light, and the rain will measure around 39mm. If you love winter bathing and saunas, then Stockholm is the place for you in January! You should even consider signing up for a sauna class while you are there. A lovely cup of hot chocolate accompanies a stroll down to Gamla stan in January.
February
The average temperature in Stockholm during February is a mere -1°C, which rarely exceeds 0°C. daylight hours are shorter, too, as sunset falls at around 5 pm towards the end of February. Although, on the upside, you can expect to see three sunny hours each day. Book a cozy hotel downtown and cozy up with a takeaway and warm drinks. Then go for a stroll through the city during the sunny hours of the day.
March
Although it is still quite cold in Stockholm during March, the weather is beautiful with sunny conditions. The average daytime high temperature’s three °C, and at night, it can be a bit chilly -3°C. You should visit the City Hall, located on the edge of Kungsholmen island, giving you a clear view of Riddarholmen and Södermalm at sunset. This is also a perfect stop before visiting the old town of Stockholm.
April
The average high temperature in April rises to nearly ten °C, the snow melts away, and Stockholm sees double the number of sunshine hours compared to March. This is the time to enjoy more outdoor events and enjoy sunny days. The weather in Stockholm is lovely during April- you can experience sunny conditions without the large summer crowds. The average high temperature is nine °C, but there is also a light breeze from the Baltic Sea to help keep things cool.
May
This month, take your exploring the Swedish capital to the next level by layering up! The Stockholm weather in May is mild to warm, with lots of bright sunshine. In the evenings, it will feel chillier, and you will need a jacket. Stockholm in May is lovely, and the city has so much beauty. With the arrival of summer, many concerts are beginning to take place in Stockholm. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some great Swedish talent!
June
This is the start of the peak season in Stockholm. The weather is usually warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city’s many parks and outdoor attractions. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting mid-week instead of on weekends. The National Day of Sweden is commemorated every year on June 6. This marked the nation’s founding in 1523 when Gustav Vasa was elected king. As it is a national holiday, many Swedes have the day off work and attend public events or gather with friends in parks for parties. If you want to explore Stockholm on foot, June is the perfect time of year! Free walking tours will take you to some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods.
July
The weather in Stockholm is lovely in July, with average temperatures of 18°C during the day and 22°C on sunny days. Cooler days might fall to 15°C, but that’s still pleasant weather for peak summer. Sweden is most lively during summertime. The Swedish people and the natural world take advantage of the long daylight hours and warm temperatures. If you’re planning a trip to Stockholm in July, there are two grand festivals you won’t want to miss. Smash Festival is a popular two-day event at Stockholm Stadion and features some of the biggest names in local and international pop music. Later in the month is Stockholm Pride, an energetic festival that celebrates diversity and inclusion. It runs from July 27th to August 2nd and is one of the city’s most significant annual events.
August
Along with June and July, the summer month of August has the best conditions all year. Although August in Stockholm boasts lovely weather, you should still pack waterproof clothing in case of rain. When visiting Stockholm in August, you have to visit Grønalund amusement park and take a guided boat trip to learn about the beautiful culture and history of the city. There are many tourists during this month, but that is also a part of the charm.
September
The busy summer crowds have disappeared, but the mild Stockholm weather in September still lets you have a great time around the city. Sweden’s capital will have lovely sunshine and chilly temperatures in the evenings at the end of the month. As the leaves begin to change color and Fall rapidly approaches, take advantage of September by getting outdoors and enjoying many different activities- especially hiking and biking! The warm seawater will also start chilling as of October, so this is also a great chance to get into some water-based activities.
October
October is a low season in Stockholm, but still a beautiful city to visit during this time. The weather is still not too cold or hot this time of year. The leaves start to fill the trees, and the city is truly unique at this time. If it is too cold outside, maybe it is time to enjoy a movie at one of Stockholms’ many movie theatres or go to one of the city museums. Get to know the culture and history of this beautiful city!
November
Winter season is coming, and the weather is getting colder by the day. If you are visiting Stockholm in November, you should see the Stockholm international film festival – an annual film festival held in Stockholm. Enjoy some of the indoor activities that Stockholm offers this time of year. Stockholm also offers winter sports during winter time, and Christmas markets may also start to appear during November. If you love the cold and enjoy long walks with a lovely cup of chocolate, you should visit Stockholm during winter.
December
This is such a lovely month in Stockholm and in general. A visit to Gamla stan is a must during December; you can explore quaint shops and see the workers make homemade candy and other lovely sweets – and if you are lucky, you can even get a free taste! Christmas lights and markets are finally here it may be one of the coldest months but one of the coziest ones. This is one of our favorite times to visit Sweden.
Read our guide to the best spa destinations around the world!
If you are looking for a city with something to offer all year round, look no further than Stockholm. You can always find something to do in this charming Swedish city with beautiful scenery and plenty of activities. If you are into Jazz, the Stockholm jazz festival Stockholm is a must! Peak season is vibrant and beautiful; it is worth a visit whether you visit during the summer or winter when there is a layer of snow on the ground. Have you been to Stockholm? What did you think?
