Sweden in May: Weather, Tips, and More
With the weather starting to warm up and nature coming to life after a long winter, May happens to be a delightful time to explore Sweden. It is the time of year when days start to get longer. You can pack several tours and activities in a day. You can stroll through beautiful gardens, bike through picturesque countryside, and take a boat trip to explore the scenic coastline. From the beautiful archipelagos along the coast to charming cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg, there is much to see and do if you take a trip to Sweden in May. This is also a great time to experience some of Sweden’s famous festivals, such as the Stockholm Culture Festival and the Malmö Festival.
- Suey
Sweden Weather in May
May marks the end of the spring season in Sweden. It is the time when the country starts to warm up and daylight hours get longer. While the temperature can still be quite cool, the overall climate is just perfect for outdoor activities. You can expect average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C, with occasional rain showers. May is also a great time to explore Sweden’s beautiful nature, as nature is coming to life after a long winter. Daylight hours in Sweden also see a significant shift around this time. By the end of the month, Stockholm experiences over 18 hours of daylight, while the northern city of Kiruna experiences up to 24 hours of daylight.
For a seasonal overview of the country, check out our guide on the best time to visit Sweden.
Weather in Sweden in May - Rainfall and Temperatures
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | -1 | -1 | 3 | 9 | 16 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 4 | -1 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | -5 | -5 | -3 | 1 | 6 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 9 | 5 | 1 | -3 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 31 | 31 | 38 | 49 | 61 | 72 | 72 | 68 | 59 | 50 | 40 | 31 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 23 | 23 | 27 | 34 | 43 | 56 | 56 | 56 | 49 | 41 | 34 | 27 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 39 | 27 | 26 | 30 | 30 | 45 | 72 | 66 | 55 | 50 | 53 | 46 |
| Apr | May | Jun | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Daily (°C) | 9 | 16 | 22 |
| Avg Nightly (°C) | 1 | 6 | 13 |
| Avg Daily (°F) | 49 | 61 | 72 |
| Avg Nightly (°F) | 34 | 43 | 56 |
| Avg Rainfall (mm) | 30 | 30 | 45 |
Why Visit Sweden in May?
You will find plenty of incredible things to see and do in Sweden when exploring this Scandinavian gem in May.
- Pleasant weather for outdoor activities: May is the transition month from winter to summer in Sweden. While the weather can still be unpredictable, the overall climate is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing. May is also a popular time to explore Abisko National Park in the north or Söderåsen National Park in the south, as the hiking trails become snow-free and easily accessible.
- Festivals and events: May is a month of celebrations in Sweden, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the country. From the Stockholm Culture Festival to the Malmö Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Swedish culture and traditions during this month.
- Fewer crowds: May is the shoulder season in Sweden, which means there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months. This makes it easier to explore popular sites and attractions without dealing with large crowds or having to wait in long lines.
- Wildlife spotting: As the snow melts and the weather warms up, animals that were in hibernation during the winter start to become more active. The warmer condition of May is a perfect time to spot animals such as brown bears, moose, reindeer, and beavers in their natural habitats. Some popular places for wildlife spotting include the forests of central Sweden, the wetlands of the Skåne region in the south, and the national parks in Lapland.
Where to go and what to do
If you are planning a trip to Sweden in May, be sure to explore Sweden’s beautiful natural landscapes, which start to come to life after the long winter months. While on a tour of Stockholm in May, take advantage of the longer and warmer days to explore the city's many attractions, such as the Royal Palace and the Vasa Museum. In the Stockholm archipelago, you can also enjoy island hopping, kayaking, and hiking. The neighboring Sörmland region is also perfect for scenic bike rides and hiking.
In the city of Gothenburg, you will find many beautiful parks and gardens, such as Slottsskogen Park, to enjoy a peaceful stroll. You can also take a stroll down the famous Avenyn Street to check out the trendy cafes and restaurants. If you are interested in automobiles, you could also tour the Volvo Museum. The island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea is a great option for a quieter and more peaceful destination. In May, you can explore the island's medieval architecture and picturesque fishing villages without the crowds.
The northern city of Kiruna offers a unique experience of witnessing the midnight sun that starts in late May. Exploring Skåne is also an excellent idea for those looking for stunning views of the countryside, charming towns, and vineyards. The mild and sunny weather conditions in May also offer the perfect setting for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
When visiting Sweden in May, do not forget to indulge in local cuisine. May is the perfect time to try traditional Swedish dishes like gravlax, meatballs, or crayfish. You can also enjoy a fika, a Swedish tradition of having coffee and pastries.
May is a fantastic time to explore Sweden's natural beauty, art, and culture. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in Scandinavian design, soak up some history and culture, or relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings, Sweden has something for everyone in May.
Reach out to our local travel experts to create a customized trip to Sweden in May.
For more ideas and inspiration, look at our Sweden guide and let us take care of the details.
