What’s the climate like in Sweden?
The current climate of Sweden features average monthly temperatures ranging from highs of 24°C during the day to lows of 2°C. The average yearly temperature is around 12°C. At night, temperatures in the colder months average around -3°C and in the warmer months around 15°C.
The highest temperature recorded in Sweden in recent years was 34°C in July 2022. The lowest daytime temperature recorded was -12°C in January 2016.
On average, Sweden gets 706 mm of precipitation each year. Of this, about 88 cm is snowfall. For comparison, UK gets 701 mm of precipitation each year.
The climate of Sweden is based on weather data from Stockholm. Other spots, like Småland, Malmö or Gothenburg, might have different weather. You can check out all destinations in Sweden for a full picture of the climate.
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Best time to visit Sweden?
The best time to visit Sweden for pleasant to warm weather is May through September. There might be some rain during this period, but the temperatures are just right for exploring Sweden.
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Climate Table of Sweden
The climate table of Sweden shows the average temperatures, precipitation, snow, and UV index per month. The table gives an overview of the average day and night temperatures in degrees Celsius, the total amount of precipitation in millimetres, the total snowfall in centimetres, and the UV index for each month. Precipitation is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail.
Click on the month name to see more weather details, like daily averages, temperatures, and precipitation for the past years in that month.
- Average yearly temperature: 12°C
- Highest temperature: 24°C in July
- Lowest temperature: 2°C in January
- Precipitation*: 706 mm per year, averaging 59 mm per month
- Snowfall: 88 cm per year
- Driest months: 28 mm in April, 31 mm in March and 44 mm in February
- Wettest months: 95 mm in July, 85 mm in October and 83 mm in June
*Precipitation is measured as a combination of rain, snow, and hail
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Weather experiences in Sweden
Average Temperature per Month in Sweden
This graph shows the average maximum temperatures per month in Sweden. The temperatures are shown in degrees Celsius and the average is calculated based on the recorded temperatures per month from past years.
Average Precipitation per Month in Sweden
This graph shows how much precipitation Sweden gets on average per month. Precipitation is always measured as water, even if it's snow or hail. This makes it easy to compare how much has fallen, regardless of the form of precipitation. The amount of precipitation is measured in millimetres and the average is calculated based on the recorded precipitation per month from past years.
Average Snowfall per Month in Sweden
This graph shows how much snow Sweden gets on average per month. The amount of snowfall is measured in centimetres and the average is calculated based on the recorded snowfall per month from past years.
Average UV Index per Month in Sweden
This graph shows the average UV index per month in Sweden. The UV index indicates the intensity of ultraviolet radiation and ranges from 0 to a maximum of 11.
Yearly Temperature in Sweden
This graph shows the average yearly temperature in Sweden. The yearly temperature, expressed in degrees Celsius, is the average of all twelve monthly temperatures summed up for that year.
Total Yearly Precipitation in Sweden
This chart shows the total yearly precipitation in Sweden over the past few years. The total yearly precipitation, measured in millimetres, is the sum of all the rain that fell in the twelve months of that year.
Total Yearly Snowfall in Sweden
This chart shows the total yearly snowfall in Sweden over the past few years. The total yearly snowfall, measured in centimetres, is the sum of all the snow that fell in the twelve months of that year.
More Climate Info About Sweden
Sweden is located in northern Europe and has a varied climate, ranging from temperate in the south to subarctic in the north. This diversity is mainly due to the country's vastness, stretching from the Baltic Sea in the south to the Arctic Circle in the north.
General climate
Sweden has a temperate climate, although winters in the north are much colder and summers shorter. This is due to the country's northern location. However, the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream makes for relatively mild temperatures, especially compared to other areas at the same latitude.
The Swedish climate is diverse and varies considerably from south to north. While the south has mild winters and pleasant summers, the north has a harsher climate with harsh winters and short summers. This diversity offers residents and visitors alike a variety of experiences, from sunny summer days in Stockholm to the magical northern lights in Kiruna. Sweden's natural beauty is enhanced by this climatic diversity, making Sweden a unique travel destination at any time of year.
Average temperatures, rain and snow
In southern Sweden, average summer temperatures are around 20 °C and winters are mild, with average temperatures around freezing. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, increasing slightly during the summer months.
In the north, summers are short and cool, with average temperatures around 15°C, while winters are long and harsh, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C. Heavy snowfalls occur in the north, especially in the mountainous regions.
Climate of southern Sweden
South Sweden, including cities such as Stockholm and Göteborg, has a temperate maritime climate. Summers are pleasantly warm and winters are relatively mild. Rainfall is fairly constant throughout the year, with a peak in late summer.
In winter, the average temperature is around 0°C and summer is mild with an average temperature of around 17°C. The region receives between 500 and 800 mm of precipitation per year, while the south-western part receives slightly more (1000 to 1200 mm).
Climate of central Sweden
In central Sweden, where cities such as Uppsala and Örebro are located, the climate is slightly cooler than in the south. Winters are colder and summers are pleasant, but not as hot as in the south. Snowfall is more common in winter, especially at higher altitudes.
Winter temperatures are colder than in the south, with average temperatures between -3°C and -4°C in cities like Stockholm and Örebro. Summer temperatures are between 16°C and 17°C. Like southern Sweden, central Sweden receives around 500 to 800 mm of precipitation per year.
Climate of northern Sweden
The climate in northern Sweden is subarctic. This area, which includes cities like Kiruna, has very short, cool summers and long, cold winters. The polar night and the midnight sun are notable phenomena in this part of the country, where the sun does not rise in the winter months and does not set in the summer.
Northern Sweden experiences much colder winters, with average temperatures dropping to around -12°C in cities like Luleå and Kiruna. Summer temperatures are cooler, averaging 12 to 15°C. Rainfall is similar to that in other parts of Sweden, although the region can experience significant snowfall in the winter months.
Swedish Highlands
The Swedish Highlands in the northwest of the country have a high-mountain climate. Heavy snowfall and low temperatures in winter make the area popular with winter sports enthusiasts. Summer is short and cool, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
This region has very cold winters. Average winter temperatures can drop to -10°C or below, while summer temperatures remain relatively cool. The highlands receive more precipitation than other parts of Sweden, especially in the form of snow in winter.
Best Time to Visit Sweden
The best time to visit Sweden depends largely on what you want to do and see. Known for its beautiful nature and rich culture, this Scandinavian country offers different experiences depending on the season and region. Sweden is a diverse country that offers something for every traveller, depending on the season and region.
Best travel time for southern Sweden
May to September are the best months to go to southern Sweden. Southern Sweden, with cities like Malmö and Gothenburg, is known for its temperate climate and long summer days.
South Sweden is the best time to travel.
Summer, from June to August, is ideal for city sightseeing, nature walks and coastal exploration.
Lente (May - June): Nature is blooming, the weather is pleasant for active recreation.
Summer (July-August): Warm and lively, ideal for beaches and festivals.
Early autumn (September): Less crowded and still pleasant weather.
Best travel time for central Sweden
If you want to visit central Sweden, June to August are the best months for a visit. Central Sweden, including Stockholm, is ideal for summer. The days are long and the cities are full of life. Make sure to visit the Stockholm archipelago during this period.
Summer (June - August): Ideal for sightseeing and exploring the archipelago.
Early autumn (September): Beautiful autumn colours and pleasant temperatures.
Best travel time for northern Sweden
The best travel time for northern Sweden is December to March for winter fun and June to August for the midnight sun. Northern Sweden, including Lapland, is known for its extreme seasons. In winter, it is a wonderland for snow fun and northern lights. In summer, you can see the midnight sun.
Winter (December - March): Ideal for northern lights, skiing and dog sledding.
Summer (June - August): Unique midnight sun, ideal for hiking.
Best travel time for the Swedish Highlands
If the Swedish Highlands are on your wish list, we recommend February to April for winter sports and June to September if you want to hike. The Swedish Highlands are an adventurer's paradise. In winter they attract skiers and snowboarders, while summer is ideal for hiking and exploring the national parks.
Late winter (February - April):The best time for winter sports when there is still plenty of snow.
Summer (June - September): Ideal for hiking, fishing and enjoying nature.
Weather experiences in Sweden
The weather in Sweden is rated an average of 3,4 out of 5 stars by 7 visitors. Have you been to Sweden? Share your weather experience to help other visitors.
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Keep in mind temperature differences. It's nice to feel the transition from winter to spring.— This text is automatically translated to English
Weather experience:Bad
The freezing wind made it even colder. The light was minimal and strained the eyes. Though beautiful, they are not ideal conditions for relaxation.— This text is automatically translated to English
It was cold, but that's normal for Scandinavia. The snow made everything magical, but the early darkness was a drawback. Good, durable clothing is a must!— This text is automatically translated to English
February was very cold in Sweden, with temperatures approaching zero. We successfully dressed warmly. Snow and sleet were commonplace, which was both refreshing and treacherous. Don't expect hours of sunshine, but rather a fresh winter atmosphere.— This text is automatically translated to English
Lisanne Leffers – was here in OctoberOctober in Sweden was mild. There was a mix of sunshine and showers. Temperatures ranged from 5 to 13 degrees. Not ideal for sun or ski lovers, so rate it as average.— This text is automatically translated to English
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Average Weather in Sweden by Month
Click on a month below to see detailed weather info for Sweden. Based on historical weather data, you can see the average temperature, precipitation, wind, and UV index for each day of the month.
