If you’re planning a trip to Gothenburg, summer really brings out the city’s best. Average daytime temperatures stay between 20°C and 23°C (68°F to 73°F), so you get warmth without the sticky, oppressive heat you might dread elsewhere in Europe. That’s pretty ideal for enjoying parks, outdoor cafés, or just wandering the streets.
Long days are the norm, especially in June, with daylight lasting up to 18 hours. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the canals, parks, or even head out to the coast. Rainfall is common, especially in July, but showers usually pass quickly and leave behind that fresh, green look everywhere.
The sea gets its warmest in August, which makes swimming and boating a lot more appealing. You’ll notice the city seems to buzz with both relaxation and activity, thanks to the mild warmth and breezy air.
Overview of Gothenburg’s Summer Climate
Gothenburg, Sweden, has a mild but sometimes unpredictable summer climate. Its coastal spot and northern latitude mean you get moderate warmth, long daylight, and quick shifts between sun and rain.
Marine West Coast Climate Characteristics
Gothenburg sits right on Sweden’s west coast, so the North Sea has a big influence here. The sea keeps summer temperatures warm but rarely lets them get too hot.
You’ll see the sea’s effect in both daytime highs and nighttime lows. From June through August, highs stay around 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F), while lows hover between 12°C and 15°C (54°F to 59°F).
Rain happens often, but it’s usually just light to moderate. Most summer showers pass quickly, and you’ll often see clear skies soon after. Expect 60–75 mm of rain per month in summer, so a light rain jacket is a smart move.
Daylight is the real showstopper. In June, you can enjoy up to 18 hours of daylight, which really opens up your options for outdoor plans.
Köppen Climate Classification (Cfb)
According to the Köppen system, Gothenburg falls under the Cfb classification—that’s Marine West Coast, warm-summer climate. Summers stay mild, winters are cool, and rain spreads out pretty evenly over the year.
For most people, this means summer’s perfect for outdoor fun without any brutal heat waves. The air gets humid, but rarely in a way that feels stifling, and sea breezes help cool things down.
Unlike the dry summers you find around the Mediterranean, Gothenburg gets steady rainfall all season. This keeps the city’s parks and forests green and lush.
The Cfb climate also brings steady seasonal changes. You’ll notice summer warmth builds up slowly in late May and sticks around well into September, with no wild swings.
Seasonal Patterns and Temperature Range
Summer in Gothenburg has its own rhythm. June brings rising warmth and long days. July hits the peak with highs near 22–23°C (72–73°F).
By August, things cool a bit but still feel pleasant. Nights usually stay between 12°C and 15°C (54°F to 59°F), so you’ll sleep comfortably. Heatwaves don’t happen often, and if they do, they’re usually brief.
Rain varies, but July tends to be the wettest, with about 70 mm spread out over many days. Showers rarely turn into all-day events.
The mix of mild warmth, steady rain, and long daylight hours makes summer perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying the waterfront. You can plan both indoor and outdoor activities without worrying about extreme weather.
Average Summer Temperatures
Gothenburg’s summer weather feels mild to warm, with steady temperatures and not much in the way of extremes. Expect comfortable highs, cool nights, and the occasional surprise swing in either direction.
Daytime Highs and Nighttime Lows
During summer, highs usually sit between 20°C and 23°C (68°F–73°F). That’s just right for walking, cycling, or hanging out at an outdoor café without sweating buckets.
Nights cool off, dropping to 12°C–15°C (54°F–59°F). The difference stands out most in June and August, especially by the water. If you’re out late, you’ll probably want a light jacket.
This day-night contrast gives you warm afternoons for swimming or sightseeing, and cool nights that make sleeping easy—no air conditioning needed.
Monthly Temperature Variations (June, July, August)
June kicks off summer with highs around 20°C (68°F) and lows near 12°C (54°F). With all that daylight, it’s a great month for being outside.
July is the warmest, with highs about 23°C (73°F) and lows around 15°C (59°F). You’ll get the most reliable warmth, though rain showers show up often.
August stays warm but cools a bit compared to July. Highs average 22°C (72°F), lows dip to about 14°C (57°F). Evenings start feeling a little more like autumn, especially later in the month.
You’ll see a gentle climb from June to July, then a slow drop in August—a clear, gradual seasonal shift.
Record and Extreme Temperatures
Gothenburg’s climate doesn’t usually go to extremes, but sometimes summer brings surprises. Rare heatwaves have pushed highs into the mid-30s°C (mid-90s°F), and the humidity can make those days feel extra intense.
On the flip side, summer nights have occasionally dipped close to 5°C (41°F), especially in early June. It’s not common, but you’ll want to be prepared for the odd chilly night.
These outliers show that the coastal climate can shift quickly. You probably won’t face major heat or cold, but packing for both makes sense.
Rainfall and Precipitation in Summer
Gothenburg’s summer brings moderate to frequent rain, with August being the wettest. Showers come often, but they’re usually short, so you’ll still get plenty of daylight.
Monthly Rainfall Totals
Summer rainfall varies by month. June gets about 60–70 mm, July bumps up to around 70–75 mm, and August tops the list with 100–105 mm.
| Month | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|
| June | 60–70 mm |
| July | 70–75 mm |
| August | 100–105 mm |
August feels more humid and damp than June, but temperatures stay mild, so outdoor plans are still possible if you plan ahead.
Rainy Days and Weather Variability
Rain usually falls as light showers or brief bursts. On average, expect 11 to 13 rainy days per month in summer.
You’ll probably see rain every few days, but it rarely ruins the whole day. Mornings can start dry, then showers move in later. Locals often keep a light rain jacket or umbrella handy.
Weather shifts quickly, so flexible plans work best. Even on wetter days, breaks between showers give you chances to get outside.
Humidity Levels During Summer
Humidity runs moderate to high in Gothenburg during summer, especially in July and August. Average relative humidity sits between 70% and 80%, thanks to the city’s spot on the North Sea.
You’ll notice the air feels heavier on rainy, warm days. June feels a bit less humid, so it’s a touch more comfortable. By August, higher rainfall and warm air make things feel damper.
Still, sea breezes often balance things out. Even during the wettest spells, conditions rarely get truly uncomfortable.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine
Summer in Gothenburg brings long days, lots of sun, and moderate UV levels. June, July, and August each have their own daylight patterns, which shape how you plan your time outdoors and how much sun protection you’ll need.
Average Daily Sunshine Hours
Sunshine hours shift through the season. In June, you usually get 8 to 9 hours of sunshine per day, making it the brightest month. July stays sunny with about 8 hours, while August drops to 6–7 hours.
So, you’ll see long stretches of daylight, but not always direct sun—clouds and rain, especially in July, can cut into those hours. Gothenburg clocks about 1,800 to 1,900 sunshine hours per year, putting it mid-range for European cities.
Length of Daylight in Summer Months
Gothenburg’s northern latitude really shows in summer. Around the June solstice, days last nearly 18 hours, with sunrise before 5 a.m. and sunset close to 11 p.m.
In July, daylight drops to about 17 hours, and August goes down to 15–16 hours. Even with less daylight later on, evenings stay bright, so you can enjoy late walks or outdoor dinners.
For comparison:
- June: ~17.5–18 hours
- July: ~17 hours
- August: ~15–16 hours
This gradual change affects how late you’ll see daylight, which matters for evening activities or festivals.
UV Index Trends
The UV index climbs in summer but never gets extreme. June and July usually peak at 5, so you’ll want sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a hat during midday. By August, UV levels drop to around 3 and 4.
From late spring through midsummer, take care with sun exposure—long daylight can sneak up on you. The risk of sunburn is lower than in southern Europe, but you can still get overexposed if you’re not careful.
Early mornings and late evenings see UV levels drop quickly, so you can enjoy those hours with less worry about sunburn.
Sea Temperatures and Outdoor Activities
Summer in Gothenburg means mild sea temperatures, long daylight hours, and comfortable weather for outdoor plans. The water’s cooler than in southern Europe, but the city’s coastline and islands still offer good spots for swimming, boating, or just soaking up the scenery.
Average Sea Temperatures for Swimming
The sea around Gothenburg warms up slowly, peaking in July and August. In June, the water sits at about 15–16°C (59–61°F)—pretty brisk for most swimmers.
By July, it climbs to around 18–19°C (64–66°F), which feels much more inviting. August holds onto similar temperatures before things cool off again in September.
Locals swim even when the water’s under 18°C, but if you want it warmer, July’s your best bet. Some sheltered bays and shallow spots might feel a bit warmer than open water.
For reference:
| Month | Avg. Sea Temp °C | Avg. Sea Temp °F |
|---|---|---|
| June | 15–16 | 59–61 |
| July | 18–19 | 64–66 |
| August | 17–18 | 63–65 |
Best Months for Outdoor Activities
The best months for outdoor adventures in Gothenburg are June, July, and August. Daytime temperatures usually hit 20°C to 23°C (68–73°F), and daylight can last up to 18 hours in June.
You’ll have plenty of time to hike, cycle, or hop between islands in the Gothenburg archipelago.
Rain does fall now and then, but showers are brief and usually don’t ruin the day. July brings the warmest weather, while June delivers those endless evenings. August cools off a little, but it’s still a great time for late-summer festivals and outdoor dining.
If you’re planning active days, bring some light layers. Evenings and mornings can feel pretty cool, even in the middle of summer. Toss a light jacket or sweater into your bag so you’re not caught off guard when the temperature drops.
Travel Tips for Summer Visitors
Try to split your time between land and sea activities. Don’t forget swimwear, but also bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and nearby islands.
Public ferries link central Gothenburg with swimming spots like Brännö and Styrsö. You can easily reach both sandy beaches and rocky shores this way.
A rain jacket comes in handy since summer showers pop up regularly. Even when it’s cloudy, the UV can sneak up on you, so pack sunscreen.
If you’re a swimmer, late July usually offers the warmest water.
Take advantage of those long days. Outdoor cafés, evening walks by the harbor, and late-night events keep the city buzzing well past sunset. Summer in Gothenburg really feels alive.
Living in Gothenburg During Summer
You’ll notice mild, sometimes rainy weather in Gothenburg, along with those long hours of daylight and gentle warmth. Life at home and in the city shifts with the season, changing up daily routines and social plans.
Home Comfort and Adaptation to Climate
Summer temperatures in Gothenburg typically land between 20°C and 23°C (68°F–73°F) during the day. Nights cool off to 12°C–15°C (54°F–59°F). Most homes skip central air conditioning since the climate just doesn’t demand it. People usually rely on open windows, fans, and a bit of airflow.
Rain shows up often, especially in July, so it’s smart to keep a light rain jacket or umbrella by the door. Balconies or small gardens turn into favorite hangouts, as folks love eating outside when the weather cooperates.
Daylight can stretch up to 18 hours in June, making evenings feel almost endless. Blackout curtains or blinds help you get some sleep. Many households tweak their routines to soak up the extra daylight, maybe with later dinners or evening strolls.
Local Lifestyle and Seasonal Events
Summer in Gothenburg feels lively. When the weather’s dry, locals jump at the chance to be outside.
You’ll spot people biking around, taking a dip in the archipelago, or just hanging out in public parks like Slottsskogen. Outdoor cafés keep their doors open well into the evening, and restaurants often squeeze in extra tables along the sidewalks.
Festivals pop up all over the place. Way Out West pulls in big crowds every August, mixing music and culture in a way that really brings the city together. You can also stumble upon smaller neighborhood markets and food fairs, which let you sample local seafood and whatever’s fresh that season.
In August, the sea temperature hits about 18°C (65°F). Swimming’s definitely possible, though you might get a little chill.
Long evenings usually wrap up with people gathering by the water. Locals soak in the mild air and stretch out those late sunsets as much as they can.