🌤️ When to go?Best time to visit Sweden
The best time to visit Sweden for backpacking is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is generally the warmest, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) in most parts of the country. The long daylight hours also provide ample time for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful Swedish landscapes.During this time, you can enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the numerous national parks, such as Abisko National Park and Sarek National Park. The coastal areas, such as the Stockholm Archipelago and the west coast, are also popular for sailing, kayaking, and swimming.
Additionally, summer is the time when many cultural festivals and events take place in Sweden, such as Midsummer celebrations and music festivals like Way Out West in Gothenburg. This allows backpackers to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the country.
It is worth noting that summer is also the peak tourist season in Sweden, so popular tourist destinations can be crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher. However, with proper planning and booking in advance, you can still enjoy a budget-friendly backpacking trip.
Why visit Sweden in June?
In June, Sweden experiences the magical phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun, where the sun never fully sets and the sky remains bright throughout the night. This unique natural occurrence allows for extended daylight hours, providing ample time for outdoor activities and exploration. Visitors can take advantage of the extended daylight to go hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoy the stunning natural landscapes that Sweden has to offer.June is also the perfect time to experience the vibrant cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the country. From the iconic Midsummer celebrations to music and food festivals, there are numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in Swedish traditions and local customs. Additionally, the pleasant weather in June makes it an ideal time to explore Sweden’s charming cities and towns, from the cosmopolitan streets of Stockholm to the historic architecture of Gothenburg.
However, it’s important to note that June is also a popular time for tourists to visit Sweden, which means that popular attractions and accommodations may be crowded and more expensive. Additionally, while the weather is generally pleasant, it’s always a good idea to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and the possibility of rain.
Why visit Sweden in July?
July is the perfect time to visit Sweden for its long daylight hours and pleasant weather. With the sun setting late in the evening, there’s plenty of time to explore the country’s stunning natural landscapes, from the lush forests and serene lakes to the picturesque coastline and archipelagos. In July, Sweden comes alive with a variety of outdoor activities and events. From hiking and camping in the pristine wilderness to swimming and boating in the crystal-clear waters, there are endless opportunities to connect with nature. The country’s charming cities and towns also host numerous cultural festivals, music concerts, and food fairs, providing a vibrant and festive atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in Swedish traditions and local customs.
For those interested in Swedish history and heritage, July offers the chance to visit historic sites, museums, and ancient landmarks. From the Viking history in the north to the royal palaces in the south, there are countless opportunities to delve into Sweden’s rich and diverse past. Additionally, July is a great time to experience the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun in the northern regions, where the sun never sets, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.
Why visit Sweden in August?
In August, Sweden experiences long days with plenty of sunlight, making it the perfect time to explore the country’s natural beauty. The lush green landscapes, blooming wildflowers, and sparkling lakes create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, allowing visitors to enjoy the great outdoors without extreme temperatures or inclement weather.August is also a great time to experience Sweden’s unique cultural events and festivals. From the Stockholm Culture Festival to the Medieval Week on the island of Gotland, there are numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in Swedish traditions, music, and cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere and lively celebrations provide a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and contemporary arts scene.
On the downside, August is peak tourist season in Sweden, which means popular attractions and accommodations may be crowded and more expensive. It’s important to plan and book in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Additionally, while the weather is generally pleasant, it can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack layers and be prepared for potential changes in conditions.
🌤️ Climate in Sweden
Sweden is a country of northern Europe that extends from 55 to 69 degrees north latitude and has different types of climates: subpolar in Lapland and the Scandinavian Mountains, Baltic semi-continental on the south-central coasts, and almost oceanic on southern coasts and islands.Compared with Norway, the Swedish climate is usually less rainy and more continental, so it is colder in winter and warmer and sunnier in summer. This happens because the westerly winds, mild and humid, are partially blocked by the Scandinavian Mountains, so they are able to easily penetrate the Swedish territory only in the southernmost part.
Being partially closed and not very extended, the Baltic Sea is able to temper the climate in a limited way, especially in the north, where it narrows into the Gulf of Bothnia, which can freeze in winter.
Precipitation in Sweden is generally not abundant, and hovers from 520 to 650 millimeters (20/23.5 inches) per year in much of the country. However, it exceeds 700 mm along the southwestern coast, which is exposed to Atlantic currents (see Gothenburg, Halmstad), while it is much more abundant in the ridge of the Scandinavian Alps, where it can even surpass 1,500 mm (60 in) per year. The wettest season is autumn on the southwest coast and summer in the rest of the country.
Some parts of Sweden are quite sunny. All along the east coast, from Luleå to Stockholm, there are 1,850/1,900 hours of sunshine per year. The maximum is reached on the southeastern islands, Gotland and Öland, where the sun shines for 2,100 hours a year (for comparison, no city in Germany reaches 1,900 hours). On the other hand, there are less than 1,700 hours of sunshine per year on the southwest coast and less than 1,600 hours in Lapland.
However, the differences occur mainly in summer, while in winter there is little sun everywhere, also because the days are very short.
source: climatestotravel.com