Uppsala

Climate Characteristics of Uppsala

Continental and Academic Climate

Uppsala is located slightly more inland than Stockholm, giving it a more continental climate. While Stockholm benefits from the moderating influence of the Baltic Sea, Uppsala's winters tend to be colder, and its summers can occasionally be warmer. Built around the Fyris River, the city's cathedral hill and castle experience cold northern winds from the surrounding plains.

Winter of Frozen Beauty

Winter in Uppsala is more "classic" than in southern cities. Temperatures frequently drop below -5°C (23°F), and snow stays on the ground longer, giving the historic campus and cathedral roofs a fairytale look. Days are very short, but the bright skies and white snow provide a unique atmosphere of frozen silence.

Green and Sunny Summer

Summer is a time of spectacular blooming, especially in the famous Linnaean Botanic Gardens. Temperatures are very comfortable, around 22-24°C (72-75°F). Due to its northern latitude, days are incredibly long in June, and students celebrate the end of the semester in parks along the river under almost eternal sunlight.

Weather in Uppsala by Month

January

The coldest month. -2°C (28°F) daytime and -7°C (19°F) at night. The city is usually covered in thick snow and the river may freeze. Stable, dry cold.

February

Stable and snowy winter. -1°C (30°F) daytime. Often the best visibility of the year with sun reflecting off the snow, but biting winds from the north.

March

Slow start of the thaw. 4°C (39°F) daytime. Sun starts to warm up at noon, but nights remain completely frozen. Sharp contrast between shade and sun.

April

The month of "Valborg" (Walpurgis). 10°C (50°F) daytime. Volatile weather where summer sun one day can be followed by a late snowstorm the next.

May

An explosion of green. 16°C (61°F) daytime. The botanic gardens wake up. Clear skies and fresh air make it the best time for city walks.

June

Month of endless light. 20°C (68°F) daytime. The sun barely sets. Nights are bright and pleasant; vegetation along the Fyris River is at its peak.

July

The warmest month. 23°C (73°F) daytime and 13°C (55°F) at night. Sunny and warm days. Ideal for park picnics; occasional short summer showers.

August

Continuation of refreshing summer. 22°C (72°F) daytime. Nights start to cool but days remain summery. Morning mists over the river become more common.

September

Impressive golden autumn. 16°C (61°F) daytime. Clear blue skies return. Foliage around the castle and cathedral is exceptionally photogenic.

October

Rapid cooling and winds. 9°C (48°F) daytime. Days shorten and become greyer and rainier. Atmosphere becomes cozy and "mysig."

November

The grey and dark month. 3°C (37°F) daytime. Almost no sunshine. Cold rains and mists are routine as the city prepares for winter.

December

Start of winter and lights. 0°C (32°F) daytime and -4°C (25°F) at night. Ancient Christmas markets open, and the city looks magical under the first snow.