Scandinavian countries can be either a winter wonderland or balmy summer destination. The climate varies from north to south and from west to east, so each locale has a unique temperature signature. Depending onthe monthyou travel to Scandinavia, travelers can expect to pack shorts, bundle up with a parka, or dress in layers to accommodate the fluctuations in weather.
The areas that are included as part ofScandinaviacan be debated, but typically Scandinavia is considered to be comprised ofDenmark,Finland,Greenland,Iceland,Norway, andSweden.
Differences in Climate
Scandinavia's regions have different climates, and temperatures vary widely between the regions. For example, theweather in Denmark follows a marine west coast climate which is typical for its location in Europe. The same is true for the southernmost part of Sweden, and the milder coastal climate touches the west coast of Norway as well, affecting the weather in Norway.
The central part of Scandinavia from Oslo toStockholmhas a more humid continental climate, which gradually gives way to subarctic climate further north, a lot like the weather in Finland.
Parts of the Scandinavian mountains in Norway and Sweden have an alpine tundra climate with frigid temperatures, especially in winter. Further north, in the regions of Greenlandand Iceland, you experience a northern climate with cold winters.
Winter in Scandinavia
Winter months in Scandinavia run between Decemberto March and as expected are quite chilly. However, unlike in many parts of the world, the temperature does not automatically become colder the further north one goes in Scandinavia but is primarily impacted depending on if you are on the coast or inland.
For instance, the coldest recorded temperature in Sweden was -52.6 degreesCelsius (-62.5 F), while further north in Norway, locals considertemperatures that go below -4 degreesCelsius to be an average winter night.
During January, the coldest month of the year, the temperatures can dipto an average of 27 degreesFahrenheit in places like Oslo. Visitors can expect regular snow and freezing temperatures for the majority of the winter months.
What to Pack:Winters across Scandinavia are quite cold and typically can be wet. No matter where you're visiting, you'll want to pack sturdy, weather-resistant gear, including a raincoat and waterproof shoes.
Spring in Scandinavia
In the springtime (April and May), the temperatures are comfortable during the day and get a bit colder in the evenings. Travelers can expect some rainy days and some days full ofsunshine as the weather is highly unpredictable during this season. Theaverage temperature is somewhere between39 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 degreesFahrenheit.
What to Pack:Spring is quite pleasant through the region, but can still be chilly. Bring sweaters and lots of other warm clothes for layering, but don't be surprised if a sneaky sunny day has you wearing a T-shirt! Spring showers aren't uncommon, so it's worth being prepared for the rain.
Summer in Scandinavia
The summer months begin around June and taper out in September and are temperate and mild. Summer inScandinavia is very mild with average temperatures of around 65 degrees Fahrenheit but can reach into the low 80sFahrenheit.
InJuly, one of the most popular months for tourism, the average dailytemperaturesrange from 55Fahrenheit to 72Fahrenheit in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. In Iceland, the weather is a bit colder with averages of 50Fahrenheit to 60 Fahrenheit.
What to Pack:Your typical summer attire—with the occasional sweater or sweatshirt for cooler nights—will serve you well during a Scandinavian summer. In many parts of the region, a good sunscreen is a must.
Fall in Scandinavia
A chill in the air will start in late September in Scandinavia and some nights will begin to feel like winter as the daylight hours drastically begin to shorten compared to summer. While the summer warmth may carry through until near the end of September by October warm clothing will be a requirement. Average temperatures in late October and November range from highs in the 50s down to the mid-30s Fahrenheit.
What to Pack:Pack lots of cozy sweaters and a coat for fall in Scandinavia. While some days are still pleasantly warm, shorter daylight hours mean less sunlight and thus, cooler temperatures.
Weather in Popular Cities of Scandinavia
Stockholm
Stockholm has cold, dark winters and cooler summers. In January, temperatures rarely exceed 32 F (0 C), while in June, the average high is 70 F (20 C). September is the city's wettest month.
Copenhagen
Copenhagen's weather is variable, with the best time to visit during July and August, the latter being the warmest month. Snowfall is common from December through March, but accumulation is somewhat rare. Temperatures during the winter often hover around freezing.
Oslo
Oslo's temperatures are surprisingly warm for its northern latitude. The average winter temperature is usually around 23 F (4 C) but doesn't typically drop below 4 F (-15 C). Summers are warm, with occasional days exceeding 80 F. July and August are among the best months to visit. September is the wettest month.
Bergen
Bergen, located on Norway's western coast, has a mild climate, albeit with a lot of precipitation. It sees striking temperature differences from Oslo: The Gulf Stream keeps the sea relatively warm, while the mountains protect the city from chilly winds.
Gothenburg
Gothenburg's humid climate has grown increasingly warmer in recent years, with an average annual temperature of 45 F (7 C). July is the city's warmest month, with an average high of 61 F (16 C), while December is the coldest, averaging just 35 F (1.6 C).
