Sweden, Europe
Stockholm in November
The gloomiest month: dark, wet, and before the Christmas lights. Only for museum trips.
The straight answer
November is a month to think twice about visiting Stockholm. The gloomiest month: dark, wet, and before the Christmas lights. Only for museum trips.
- Weather
- Dark and damp, highs near 41F (5C), about 7 hours of daylight
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What November is like in Stockholm
November is the gloomiest month. It is dark and damp, with highs near 41F (5C) and about seven hours of daylight, often under gray skies. The Christmas lights and markets do not start until late in the month, so most of November sits in a dull gap between fall color and holiday cheer. Crowds are very thin and prices are fair.
Honestly, most travelers should pick another month. November only suits museum-focused trips or travelers who want low crowds above all. If you want winter atmosphere, December is far better, with markets, Lucia, and festive lights. For good weather, come June through August.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Stockholm this month.
Museum-focused trips
With few visitors, the Vasa Museum, Skansen's indoor exhibits, and the Royal Palace are easy to see.
Christmas markets open late in the month
The markets at Stortorget in Gamla Stan and at Skansen usually open in late November.
Sauna culture
Warming up in a sauna is the best antidote to a damp, dark day.
What to pack for November
- A warm, waterproof coat
- Waterproof boots
- Warm layers
- A compact umbrella
Our timing tip
If you must go in November, pick the last week to catch the Christmas markets opening.
Book Stockholm for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in StockholmOpens a hotel search for Stockholm in November, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in StockholmWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in StockholmTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Stockholm for November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
Things to do in Stockholm
Vasa Museum
Go at opening or after 5pm in summer, when some days run late. Allow two hours.
Skansen
The world's first open-air museum (1891), with historic buildings and Nordic animals. The center of Midsummer celebrations.
The Royal Palace
One of the largest palaces in Europe, still the King's official residence. The changing of the guard runs daily in summer.
Fotografiska
Photography museum in a former customs house, with a top-floor restaurant looking over the water. Open late.
ABBA The Museum
Interactive and far better than it has any right to be. Book a time slot in summer.
Archipelago by ferry
Waxholmsbolaget's commuter ferries go to Vaxholm, Grinda, and beyond at public-transit prices. Full schedules run roughly mid June to mid August.
Beat the crowds
- Hit the Vasa Museum and Skansen at opening, before cruise passengers arrive mid morning.
- Take an early commuter ferry to the archipelago rather than a tour boat; you get more time on the islands for less money.
- Book Midsummer weekend lodging and activities well ahead; the rest of summer is easier.
- Explore Sodermalm and Djurgarden in the afternoon while tour groups are in Gamla Stan.
Know before you go
- The archipelago ferries run full schedules only in high summer, roughly mid June to mid August. Off season, service is sparse and many island cafes and inns close.
- In July, many independent restaurants and shops close for two to four weeks of summer vacation. Check any place you are set on.
- Midsummer Eve and Midsummer Day close many shops and restaurants in the city as Swedes head out of town.
- The City Hall tower is open only in the warmer months. City Hall itself is by guided tour and closes for some official events, including around the Nobel banquet.
Stockholm in November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Stockholm?
November is a month to think twice about visiting Stockholm. The gloomiest month: dark, wet, and before the Christmas lights. Only for museum trips.
What is the weather like in Stockholm in November?
Dark and damp, highs near 41F (5C), about 7 hours of daylight.
Is Stockholm crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Stockholm; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Stockholm in November?
Christmas markets (late november through december 23).
Keep planning Stockholm.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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