Exploring July in Scandinavia
July in Scandinavia is the prime season for travelers, largely due to the pleasant weather. Outdoor activities are fully accessible during this summer month, although it can become somewhat crowded. It is important to note that flight and hotel prices tend to peak this time of year. Thus, planning ahead and making reservations several months in advance can help you achieve the best rates.
July Weather in Scandinavia
Scandinavia is a favored July destination because of its warm daytime temperatures and mild evenings, even near coastal areas. The average daily temperatures typically range from 55°F to 72°F across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, while Iceland sees averages between 50°F and 60°F.
In July, visitors can experience one of Scandinavia’s remarkable natural phenomena: the Midnight Sun. This breathtaking occurrence allows the sun to illuminate the sky for over 16 hours during the day, providing ample daylight to explore scenic sites. Norway’s North Cape (Nordkapp) is a popular spot to appreciate this phenomenon. While locals manage to adapt to the bright nights, visitors might find it challenging to sleep; consequently, hotels are usually equipped with blackout curtains to facilitate rest.
What to Pack
Summer travel in Scandinavia typically calls for short sleeves, but it is wise to bring along a comfortable sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings. Weatherproof raincoats and windbreakers remain essential, especially for those intending to visit Iceland. Moreover, sturdy and comfortable shoes are critical for outdoor enthusiasts, while sandals or sneakers are suitable for urban exploration.
July Activities and Events in Scandinavia
Summer is the ideal time for festivals and events in Scandinavia. When planning your July visit, consider these engaging activities:
- Viking Plays in Frederikssund, Denmark: Every summer, over 250 performers present outdoor Viking plays, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1952.
- Kongsberg Jazz Festival, Norway: An international jazz festival held yearly since 1964, with another jazz festival in Copenhagen, Denmark in July.
- Roskilde Festival, Denmark: One of Europe’s largest music festivals, featuring 175 concerts over eight days and attracting nearly 130,000 fans. The festival also includes art installations and activism seminars.
- Falsterbo Horse Show, Sweden: This event has showcased equestrian competitions since 1920, attracting approximately 1,000 horses and riders.
- Karlshamn Baltic Festival, Sweden: The largest free festival in southern Sweden, featuring a massive concert stage in the town’s main square.
- Rey Cup, Iceland: An international festival for football (soccer) that welcomes over 90 teams of all levels.
- Ólavsøka, Faroe Islands: Celebrated on July 29, this national festival features rowing races, football matches, concerts, and art exhibitions, culminating in traditional Faroese ballads and dances in Tórshavn’s town square.
