Unlike many European cities which can be hot, crowded and congested during July and August, Stockholm's chilled vibe and natural spaces makes it an ideal summertime city destination. Within the city itself it's easy go from sightseeing at the palaces and museums to enjoying the sun by bathing at one of the city's many outdoor swimming spots. Stockholm also features an archipelago of 30,000 islands, islets and rocks, most of which are beautifully unspoilt and boast stunning beaches.
Canalside beaches and an elegant waterfront make Gothenburg the perfect summer destination. Located in the south of the country, it also enjoys great weather. All through the summer, visitors can enjoy Liseberg, the largest amusement park in Scandinavia. Nearby is an archipelago of 20 tranquil islands, many of which are car-free, while the city centre houses a large public sauna and floating pool at Frihamnen.
In order to experience the true midnight sun, you're best off heading north to Lapland. The town of Abisko, gateway to Lapland, is easily accessible by train from Stockholm and is the perfect base for exploring the vast Abisko National Park. Despite being located within the Arctic Circle, the average summer temperatures in Abisko are pleasantly mild and surprisingly dry.
Sweden's beautiful coastal city boasts bridge-access to Denmark as well as a charming renaissance castle and town hall, plus the world's oldest public park, Folkets Park. In the summer months, the cafés and bars of the main squares - Lila Torg and Stortorget - provide the ideal place to watch the city's trendy residents go about their daily lives.
It's always advisable to holiday where the locals do, which means heading to Gotland Island, where many Swedish people spend their summer. Gotland is home to the UNESCO protected city of Visby, a charming and historic destination, as well as 800km of mostly sandy coastline. It's also worth catching a ferry to the island of Faro where the striking raukar (limestone monoliths) that sit along the coast are even more dramatic when viewed in the summer sun.