Seasons & climate

One of the nicest things about Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Finland and Iceland is the vibrancy and distinctiveness of the four seasons. 

Summer brings long daylight hours and generally mild temperatures – great for maximising outdoor activities and sightseeing during your trip! In the northernmost regions above the Arctic Circle, you can experience the midnight sun, when the sun does not dip below the horizon for several weeks.

Winter transforms much of the region into a snowy landscape, especially in northern Norway, Sweden and Finland. Snow is less common in the southern areas and along the coasts, such as Denmark, southern Sweden and Iceland. During this season, daylight is limited, particularly above the Arctic Circle, creating ideal conditions for Northern Lights viewing.

Autumn offers vibrant colours as the forests and countryside come alive with autumn foliage, while spring marks the return of greenery and blooming flora after the long winter. These shoulder seasons are a great time to explore popular destinations outside the busiest travel periods.

The Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania also have four distinct seasons, albeit somewhat less extreme than those of the northern Nordic regions. The Baltic climate is roughly comparable to that of mainland Europe, but with cooler summers and colder winters.

Summers are pleasant and mild. Longer daylight hours give the capital cities a lively and beautiful atmosphere long into the evening. The Baltics tend to be less crowded in summer than many other popular European destinations, making them a great choice for summer travel. 

Winters are cold and can be snowy, though snow is not guaranteed. Because they are located well below the Arctic Circle, the Baltics are not recommended for Northern Lights viewing.

Autumn and spring are typical shoulder seasons and are a great time to optimise availability, more affordable prices and mild weather.

Despite their northerly location, the Nordic and Baltic regions have a mild and pleasant climate thanks to the Gulf Stream. Here you will find an ideal ‘coolcation’ destination if you want to avoid intense summer heat, and – in the more northerly regions – excellent snow conditions for a true winter wonderland experience.

However, there is considerable variation within these countries. The southern and western regions enjoy milder winters and cool summers, and you can expect more frequent precipitation near the coasts. As you move inland, you find colder winters and relatively warm summers. The northern regions of the subarctic zone have long, cold, snowy winters and short mild summers.

The chart below shows the average high/low temperatures per month in selected locations (temperatures are given in °C):

Convert Celsius to Fahrenheit.