Stockholm in summer

​Summer in Stockholm is a time of endless possibilities, a blessed period when the city, bathed in light, reveals all its charms. The long, bright days create a unique atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and extended evenings.

With its 14 islands and over 30,000 islets scattered throughout its archipelago, Stockholm is a city where nature is ever-present, even in the heart of its downtown. The climate is generally mild, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C, making summer the ideal time to discover the city on foot, by bike, or by boat.​Locals take advantage of this season to gather in the numerous verdant parks, such as Djurgården or Tantolunden, or to embark on excursions to the archipelago's islands.

The streets of the Old Town, Gamla Stan, take on a particularly lively ambiance, with terraces welcoming both residents and visitors. It's also the season for festivals, outdoor events, and markets, offering a blend of cultural activities and moments of conviviality. Stockholm in summer embodies both the modernity of a European capital and the tranquility of preserved nature, creating a perfect balance for those seeking to experience the city at its best.​

Must-Not-Miss Summer Events

• Late May to Early June
  Student parades in decorated trucks. At the end of the school year, graduating students (studenten) celebrate their diplomas with exuberant energy. In Stockholm, this is shown through parades in decorated trucks, often between late May and early June. Students, dressed in white with their traditional sailor hats (studentmössa), ride on the back of trucks or sound-equipped trailers, dancing, singing, throwing confetti, and filling the city with their joy.

These noisy yet good-natured processions often traverse the city center, particularly around Kungsträdgården, Sveavägen, and Östermalm. It's a true institution in Sweden and a spectacle not to be missed if you're in town during this period! In recent years, stricter routes have been imposed to prevent chaos in the city.​

• Early June:Stockholm Marathon
  Every summer, runners from around the world gather to participate in the Stockholm Marathon. It is one of the most famous marathons in Europe, offering a spectacular route through the city and its iconic landscapes.
• June 6: Swedish National Day
  On this day, a royal carriage procession is organized between the Royal Palace and the open-air museum Skansen. The Queen, Crown Princess Victoria, and her daughter Estelle are dressed in traditional Swedish costumes. In the late afternoon, a concert with the royal family is also held at Skansen. The atmosphere is friendly and patriotic, yet always relaxed.​
• June 21–22: Midsommar (Midsummer)
  This is the most iconic event of the Swedish summer. Even in the city, celebrations are numerous: in parks like Skansen, people dance around the decorated maypole (midsommarstång), sing, eat herring and potatoes, and wear flower crowns.​ Midsommar is a celebration of the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. It has roots in both pagan and Christian traditions and is considered one of the most important holidays in Sweden. The festivities include traditional foods such as new potatoes, pickled herring, and strawberries, as well as games like kubb and singing drinking songs.

Credits: Carolina Romare/imagebank.sweden.se

Swedes take this opportunity to leave the city for countryside retreats, making some restaurants and shops in the city center closed during this period. It's advisable to plan ahead if you're visiting during these dates.​

• June-August: Parkteatern (Park Theatre)
  A variety of free performances, including theater, concerts, dance, and circus acts, are held in Stockholm's parks. Since 1942, Stockholmers have gathered during the summer months to experience culture and art in the open air. The tradition continues, and you're invited every summer to enjoy these performances. The program typically includes over a hundred performances at various venues across the city. Program here !
• July: Stockholm Music & Arts Festival
  An outdoor festival featuring pop, folk, electronic music, visual arts, and performances on Skeppsholmen Island. It hosts both Swedish and international artists in a relaxed, waterfront setting.​ Program here!
• August: Stockholm Culture Festival
  A free, eclectic festival that takes over the city center for several days with concerts, street performances, exhibitions, workshops, and activities suitable for all ages. The main stage is typically located in Kungsträdgården Park

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Each year, a different theme is highlighted. This year, 2025, it will take place from August 13 to 17, the program is published on this page.

• Early August: Stockholm Pride
  The Pride festival in Stockholm is a major event celebrating diversity and the rights of LGBTQ+ people. The colorful and vibrant parade moves through the city, attracting thousands of participants and spectators. It is a moment of inclusivity, joy, and solidarity.
• August: Midnattsloppet
  This night marathon is a 10 km race held every year in August. Runners race through the streets of Stockholm at night, with the illuminated city as the backdrop. An unmissable event for running enthusiasts!
• In August: Sommarbio (Outdoor Cinema)
  Every summer, Rålambshovsparken (on the island of Kungsholmen) transforms into an outdoor cinema. A selection of films, often in their original version with subtitles, is shown for free. Be sure to bring a blanket and a picnic! The program is published on the Stockholm Film Festival website. This year, 2025, it is scheduled between August 13 and 17.
• In summer
  The archipelago is very accessible in summer There are many excursion options (to Vaxholm, Sandhamn, or Grinda) and many other destinations.

Credits: Roger Borgelid/imagebank.sweden.se

It's an essential summer tradition for both locals and visitors. Check out the websites of Stromma and Waxholmbolaget.

Our practical tips for a pleasant summer stay

1. Wear appropriate clothing

Even in summer, the weather can change quickly. The days are often mild (20 to 28°C), but a light jacket, a sweater, and a raincoat will always come in handy. Opt for layered clothing, which can be easily adjusted depending on the weather.

2. Walk (a lot!)

Stockholm is great for exploring on foot or by bike. The sidewalks are wide, the parks are plentiful, and the distances between neighborhoods are reasonable. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle that you can refill for free at various places in Stockholm.

3. Make the most of the long days

In summer, the sun can set after 10 PM! This allows you to fully enjoy activities, strolls, or even late-night picnics. Don’t forget your sleep mask if you are a light sleeper, as hotel curtains are not always completely opaque.

4. Explore the archipelago

Ferries depart from the city center (Strömkajen or Slussen) to nearby islands like Vaxholm, Grinda, or Fjäderholmarna. Book in advance on sunny weekends:he Swedes take full advantage of them, just like tourists!

5. Try the local cuisine

Don’t forget to enjoy fika (a coffee break with pastry or a sweet treat); cozy cafés are everywhere in the city. When it comes to food, taste the famous meatballs (köttbullar), and salmon in all its forms. Covered markets like Östermalms Saluhall and traditional restaurants are perfect for sampling everything.

6. Don’t forget your credit card

Sweden is almost cash-free. Everything (even public restrooms) is paid for by card or via an app. There's no need to withdraw cash: your credit card is king.

7. Plan and organize your visits

Some museums and tourist sites are free (especially for those under 18), but others can get crowded in the summer, like the Vasa Museum and, in recent years, the ABBA Museum. Book your tickets online, especially for the Vasa or ABBA Museum, and of course for Skansen if you're visiting during Midsummer. On this day, and generally on Tuesdays in summer (when a very popular TV show is recorded in the park), the queues are long. On other days, it's much less of an issue.

8. Download useful apps

SL (Stockholms Lokaltrafik): for public transportation (metro, tram, bus, boat). Voi / Tier / Bolt: for electric scooters.

Our 7 guided tour suggestions for summer

1. A guided walk through the city (between 1.5 and 6 hours)

Summer is the ideal time to enjoy the city outdoors, so why not take a walk through the Old Town and discover the city’s history? If you want to extend the walk, we offer tours that explore both the old city and the modern city, as well as walks focused on specific neighborhoods, such as the bohemian district of Stockholm.

If you want a more comprehensive view of the city, we offer a tour exploring the different neighborhoods of the city (available in 4-hour or 6-hour versions).

2. Visit to Millesgården (1h15 to 1h30)

Visiting Millesgården in the summer is an unforgettable experience, offering a perfect blend of art, nature, and Swedish culture. Located on the island of Lidingö, just a few kilometers from the center of Stockholm and accessible by metro and tram, this open-air museum is the work of sculptor Carl Milles and his wife Olga.
In summer, the gardens are in full bloom, and Milles' majestic statues inspired by mythology, such as the famous Poseidon, stand tall above the sea, offering a breathtaking panoramic view.

3. The Swedish Dolce Vita (8 to 9 hours)

This tour, dedicated to everything that makes life sweet in Sweden (the simple pleasures) as well as a certain Swedish elegance, is ideal in the summer. After a guided walk through the city's most elegant and luxurious district, you will indulge in the pleasures of the archipelago, its beauty, and the uniquely Swedish way of enjoying the present moment. to reach a magical place called Artipelag.

Credits: Jesus Roger/Artipelag/imagebank.sweden.se

You will board on a charming, old-fashioned boat. On-site, you will enjoy the enchanted nature, delicious cuisine for a relaxing moment, and then continue with an exhibition in this place in harmony with nature. Back in Stockholm, you will visit the National Museum and discover Swedish painting. A full day dedicated to refinement and Nordic dolce vita.

4. An excursion to Vaxholm (4 to 5 hours)

Summer is truly the season when the archipelago opens up to locals and visitors, easily accessible and offering a complete change of scenery less than an hour from Stockholm. Vaxholm has all the advantages of the archipelago islands: nature, sea, small beaches, piers for swimming, and a peaceful atmosphere. But unlike some more remote islands, it remains lively, vibrant, and well-equipped (cafés, shops, accommodations, restaurants, activities...). Why not bring your swimsuit and enjoy the sandy beach located at the tip of the island?

5. Sigtuna, the first Swedish town (5 hours)

Founded around 980 and considered the very first Swedish town, Sigtuna is a small town with a discreet but undeniable charm, particularly captivating in the summer. The town is full of historical remnants: the largest collection of runic stones, ruined churches, and charming small colored wooden houses that tell centuries of history. In summer, it can all be explored on foot, calmly, under the sun.  

Sigtuna is located on the shores of Lake Mälaren and is the perfect place for a walk along the water or a picnic. The main street, lined with shops and cozy cafés, is also very photogenic and memorable. A trip that leaves a lasting impression.

6. Picnic and the Swedish art of living (2.5 to 3 hours)

What if you discovered Swedish cuisine in the heart of nature? Imagine yourself sitting in a peaceful, typically Swedish setting, savoring the essentials of local cuisine... This is exactly what this gourmet picnic in the open air offers, combining relaxation, discovery, and sensory pleasure. In a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, you will taste a selection of sweet and savory Swedish specialties while learning about their origins, preparation, and role in Swedish culture.
This moment will also be an opportunity to learn more about the country's culinary traditions, in a natural setting that invites relaxation. The experience takes place on the island of Djurgården, a true green haven in the heart of Stockholm, perfectly suited for this shared experience. You will be accompanied by a guide passionate about gastronomy and nature, who will act as a curious and kind mediator between you, the products, and Swedish culture.

7. For a program of visits (from 1 day to a week)

When the days grow longer, the golden light floods the cobbled streets, and the city is adorned in green and blue, Stockholm becomes a true summer gem. It is the perfect season to explore the Swedish capital on foot, by boat, or by bike, at the leisurely pace of its picturesque neighborhoods and many islands.

It’s also the perfect time to let yourself be guided! With our guided tour program specially designed for the summer, you can fully enjoy the city while discovering its many secrets.