Autumn in Stockholm

As Stockholm shifts from summer to autumn, daylight quietly retreats, leaving crisp air and trees brushed in gold and amber hues. Café terraces pull in chairs, and locals wrap themselves in thicker scarves, swapping summer ice cream for steaming mugs of coffee. Streets become calmer, parks take on a slower pace, and the city gently prepares itself for winter’s approach. Below you’ll find experiences – both cozy traditions and scenic pleasures – that perfectly match this thoughtful, quieter side of Stockholm, whether you’re just passing through or settling into local rhythms.

Where to See Autumn Colors

Golden autumn foliage in Djurgården, part of Stockholm’s Royal National City Park, creates a magical urban oasis in fall.

Stockholm’s nature puts on a brilliant show in autumn. Here are some of the best places to soak up the fall colors:

• Djurgården & Rosendals Trädgård: The leafy island of Djurgården turns fiery orange and yellow as the oaks and maples change. Stroll down the avenues or visit the apple orchards at Rosendal Garden, where you might catch pumpkin displays or apple-pressing events on weekends. Tip: Take the Djurgården ferry from downtown or walk in from Strandvägen, then reward yourself with a cup of warm apple cider (äpplemust) at the Rosendal café.
  
• Hagaparken & Brunnsviken Lake: North of the center, Hagaparken offers stately nature scenes in autumn – giant oak trees, winding paths, and the iconic Copper Tents (18th-century pavilion buildings) which look great framed by fall foliage. You can rent a city bike or electric scooter at Odenplan and do a leisurely loop around Brunnsviken Lake (about 4 km (2.5 mi)). The reflection of golden trees in the water is picture-perfect on a calm day.
  
• Tyresta National Park: If you crave a more wilderness feel, Tyresta is a prime spot. This national park, about 20 km south of the city, has old-growth pine forests and lakes. In autumn, the understory comes alive with red blueberry bushes and mushrooms. After September, Tyresta is tranquil with far fewer visitors. Take SL bus 807/809 from Gullmarsplan to Tyresta By. From there, follow the orange-marked Bäverstigen (“Beaver Trail”) for an easy 5 km (2–3 hour) circuit that showcases beautiful fall scenery.
  
• Stockholm Archipelago Trail (new “Magic Season” hike): Recently launched, the Stockholm Archipelago Trail is a 270 km (170 mi) network linking 21 islands via ferries and hiking paths. Autumn is promoted as the “magic season” to hike it – summer crowds are gone, the beaches are empty, and the forests have a fresh, earthy smell. You obviously won’t do the whole thing unless you have a week, but even a day-trip segment is worth it. For example, catch a ferry to Nåttarö island, hike through its pine forests to neighboring Ålö, warm up in a sauna by the shore, and stay overnight in a cozy cabin (stuga). The trails are well-marked and you’ll experience the serene side of the archipelago.
  
  Local tip: Daylight fades quickly after the autumn equinox. If you’re hiking or out in nature, pack a thermos of warm blåbärssoppa (sweet blueberry soup) and a headlamp. Sunsets can be breathtaking, but they happen early – by late October the sky may be dark by 5 pm.
  

Warm Up, Swedish Style

As temperatures drop, Swedes know how to stay warm and cozy. Why not join in some traditional Swedish ways to warm up? Read our full guide on saunas to visit in Stockholm.

• Sauna + cold dip at Hellasgården: Just 15 minutes by bus from Södermalm (take bus 401 from Slussen), Hellasgården is a nature area centered around Lake Källtorpssjön. In autumn, its public lakeside sauna is a truly magical experience – especially on a misty morning. The wood-heated sauna sits right by the water, and you can alternate between sweating in the heat and taking a brisk plunge into the lake (yes, even in fall the water is chilly!). With autumn foliage reflected on the lake and a bit of fog, it feels like a scene from a Nordic fairy tale. The sauna is open daily; bring your swimsuit, towel, and a brave spirit for the cold dip.
  
• Svartsö Sauna: Visiting the Stockholm archipelago in the off-season is a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy its quieter side. Svartsö is accessible year-round, and the sauna within walking distance of the Svartsö Hotel & Hostel is an ideal spot to unwind after hiking the Stockholm Archipelago Trail. It seats up to 10 people and includes a shower, bathroom, and a spacious lounge, making it well-suited for an autumn getaway. Heat up in the sauna, then cool off with a plunge in the sea just down the hill, before returning to the lounge to relax.

Autumn Events & Festivals (2025)

Even in its quieter months, Stockholm hosts a number of events celebrating the season’s food, drink, and culture. Here are some calendar highlights for 2025:

• Sep 27–28 – Skansen Autumn Market: Step back in time at Skansen’s historic fall market. This family-friendly event brings 19th-century country life to the city: think stalls with traditional handicrafts, farmers selling autumn produce, toffee apples, fresh bread, and folk musicians strolling around. Kids can try old-fashioned games, and everyone can enjoy the cozy vibe of an old-world harvest fair. Don’t forget to taste some warm glögg (spiced wine) if it’s chilly.
  
• Oct 4 – Cinnamon Bun Day (Kanelbullens Dag): A modern Swedish tradition that’s basically an excuse to eat kanelbullar all day (as if Swedes needed an excuse!). Bakeries across Stockholm prepare extra batches of the famous cinnamon rolls, and you’ll see queues forming at beloved cafés like Vete-Katten and Fabrique. Join in by grabbing a bun (or two) and a coffee – enjoy it on a park bench wrapped up in a sweater, and you’ll feel properly Swedish.
  
• Oct 10–19 – Stockholm Jazz Festival: For ten days in October, the city sways to jazz. Over 200 concerts take place in venues ranging from grand concert halls to intimate clubs and even some suburban cultural centers. There’s something for every taste – swing, bebop, fusion, Scandinavian cool jazz, you name it. A highlight is often the opening show on Skeppsholmen island or unique settings like a concert on a boat. Check the program and grab tickets to a gig that suits your style; many smaller shows and jam sessions are free or affordable.
  
• Oct 24-25 – Stockholm Beer & Whiskey Festival: One of Sweden’s biggest tasting events, featuring craft beer and whisky from local microbreweries as well as international producers. Held at Nacka Strand (easy to reach by ferry or bus), the festival offers masterclasses, opportunities to meet brewers and distillers, and the chance to sample everything from Nordic IPAs to classic single malts. (Tip: Book tasting sessions in advance—popular ones sell out fast.)
  
• Oct 31–Nov 1 – All Saints’ Weekend at Skogskyrkogården: This isn’t a festival with music or food, but a deeply moving event worth experiencing if you are in town. On the night of All Hallows’ Eve and into All Saints’ Day, thousands of Stockholmers visit the woodland cemetery Skogskyrkogården (a UNESCO site) to light candles on the graves of loved ones. The effect is breathtaking – a sea of flickering lanterns lighting up the autumn darkness among towering pines. Even if you have no personal connection, visitors are welcome to quietly walk the grounds (tip: take the T-bana to Skogskyrkogården station and follow the crowd). It’s a beautiful, serene tradition that shows a different side of Swedish culture.
  
• Nov 5–16 – Stockholm International Film Festival: Twelve days of Swedish and international films shown in movie theaters, guest appearances by directors, actors and screenwriters.
  
• Nov 28–30 – Dreamhack Stockholm: The world’s largest gaming festival and LAN-party is returning to Stockholm this year. It started as a small event in the 1990s and has now grown to a huge festival with e-sport games, lectures, cosplay and LAN-parties.

Indoors when it drizzles

Autumn is the time to embrace “mys” (Swedish for coziness), especially on dreary days. Here are some indoor ideas for when the weather doesn’t cooperate:

• Fotografiska Museum: Shorter days mean longer nights to fill, and Fotografiska (the photography museum) obliges by staying open late (until 11 pm most nights). Spend a rainy evening exploring striking photography exhibitions, then head to the top-floor bar for a drink with views over the twinkling harbour. It’s a perfect post-dinner or date-night activity.
  
• Vasa Museum (again!): Stockholm’s famous Vasa is not just a summer attraction. In fact, visiting in autumn often means lighter crowds – you might spend more time marveling at the 1628 ship and less time waiting in line. Plus, the museum’s cozy café serves seasonal dishes like hot chanterelle soup and hearty sandwiches, so you can warm up with lunch while overlooking the ship’s upper deck.
  
• Moderna Museet & Nationalmuseum: Both the Modern Art Museum (Moderna) and the National Museum of fine arts offer free entry to their permanent collections, making them great low-cost escapes on a gloomy day. Wander through masterpieces (Moderna has Picasso and Dalí; Nationalmuseum has Rembrandt and Swedish masters) and then enjoy the scenery outside – Moderna Museet overlooks the water of Skeppsholmen, which in autumn is often misty and atmospheric.
  
• Cinematic escape: If you just want to curl up and be entertained, check out one of Stockholm’s historic cinemas like Bio Capitol or Bio Victoria. They often show a mix of new releases and classics, and on a drizzly afternoon, it can be wonderfully relaxing to watch a film with a coffee or glass of wine (Capitol even has little tables for your drinks in the theater).
  

Taste the Season

Autumn in Sweden is harvest time, bringing plenty of seasonal treats. Many restaurants adapt their menus to match the cooler weather, serving hearty dishes such as stews, slow-cooked meals, mushroom specialties, root vegetables, and game like elk or deer. Here are a few ways to enjoy Stockholm’s autumn flavors:

• Game and mushroom specialties: As the weather cools, restaurant menus feature hearty dishes like game meats and wild mushrooms. Try a classic Swedish kantarell-toast – butter-fried chanterelle mushrooms on toast – or a tender venison stew. Restaurants like Oaxen Slip on Djurgården or Pelikan in Södermalm are renowned for serving seasonal Swedish fare in autumn. It’s comfort food at its finest.
  
• Guided mushroom foraging: For a hands-on foodie adventure, join a mushroom picking tour. Several companies offer 5–6 hour foraging trips in the forests just outside Stockholm (areas in Nacka, Tyresta, or Bogesund). A guide will help you identify edible mushrooms like chanterelles and porcini. After tromping through the woods and filling your basket, the group often gathers to cook or at least taste the finds, often around a warm campfire. It’s an insightful (and tasty) way to experience Sweden’s foraging culture.
  
• Autumn beers (höstöl): Craft breweries in Stockholm release special autumn beers that often have richer, malty profiles. Drop by taprooms like Omnipollos Hatt (famous for its creative brews and pizza) or Nya Carnegiebryggeriet in Hammarby Sjöstad. In September and October you might find limited-edition pumpkin ales, Oktoberfest lagers, or darker seasonal beers on tap. Pair your pint with some pub grub and enjoy the cozy indoor vibe as the leaves fall outside.
  
• Crayfish parties (kräftskiva): Technically a late summer tradition (most happen in early September), the spirit of the Swedish crayfish party overlaps with autumn. If you’re around in early September, see if any public kräftskiva events are happening – sometimes restaurants or beer gardens host them. You’ll get to wear a silly paper hat, sing drinking songs, sip schnapps, and devour fresh boiled crayfish by candlelight. One place to check is Fjäderholmarna Brewery – in past years they’ve hosted crayfish party nights on the island, complete with lanterns and music. It’s a uniquely Swedish way to say farewell to summer and hello to the cozy season.
  
• Start of the lobster season: Sweden’s lobster season begins in late September and runs until the end of November. The official start, known as Hummerpremiär, is a highlight for seafood lovers and a great time to try Swedish lobster. Many Stockholm restaurants mark the season with special dishes, including Stockholm 1897, B.A.R., and Lisa Elmqvist.
  

Weeknight Fun (Like a Local)

One lovely aspect of Stockholm in autumn is the return of routines – including local hobbies and meetups. If you’re here for an extended stay or just want to dip into local life, here’s a week’s worth of evening ideas that Stockholmers enjoy (visitors welcome!):

• Monday – Join a choir rehearsal: As winter approaches, choirs across Sweden start practicing for Lucia (the December 13th candlelight singing celebration). Many community choirs hold open rehearsals or let newcomers join in autumn with no audition needed. For example, ABF-huset near Sveavägen often hosts choir rehearsals on Monday nights that you can sit in on or participate in. It’s a heartwarming way to start the week – singing your heart out in harmony.
  
• Tuesday – Make your own candles: Get crafty and cozy by attending a candle-making workshop. The Nordic Candle Company in Vasastan offers evening classes where you can learn to hand-dip or pour candles using traditional techniques and Nordic scents. You’ll leave with your own handmade candles – perfect souvenirs or gifts, and a useful item for those dark evenings.
  
• Wednesday – Try indoor sports (innebandy): Innebandy, or floorball, is a super popular Swedish sport – kind of like indoor hockey with a wiffle ball. Many sports halls have casual “drop-in” sessions on weeknights. Head to Liljeholmshallen or another local gym on a Wednesday evening; for a small fee, you can join a friendly floorball game. Equipment (sticks and balls) is usually provided and all skill levels are welcome. It’s fast, fun, and you’ll meet locals blowing off mid-week steam.
  
• Thursday – Paddle in the dusk: Early autumn is still warm enough for some outdoor activity. Rent a stand-up paddleboard on Årstaviken (for example, at Tantolunden) after work. Many rental places operate through mid-October as long as weather permits. Paddling in the cool evening air, with fall colors along the shoreline and city lights starting to glimmer, is pure autumn magic. Plus, you’ll sleep great afterward.
  
• Friday – Seasonal beer tasting: Kick off the weekend by unwinding at a local brewery taproom. Stockholm Brewing Co. in Södermalm, for instance, often releases small-batch seasonal beers on Fridays. You can order a tasting flight of different brews – don’t be surprised if one is a harvest ale or a fresh hop IPA brewed from the year’s hop harvest. The vibe is relaxed and communal; it’s a great way to chat with Stockholmers and compare notes on your favorite beer of the night.
  

Practical Tips for Autumn

• Layer up: Autumn weather can swing from mild to quite chilly. In early September, afternoons might reach 15°C (59°F) or higher, but by November nights can hover near freezing (around 0°C/32°F). Pack layers – think a T-shirt or long-sleeve base, a sweater, and a light jacket that you can add or shed as needed. Don’t forget a scarf and hat for windy days by the water.
  
• Shorter days: By mid-November, darkness falls as early as 4 pm. Make the most of daylight by starting your sightseeing early. Carry reflective strips or wear something light-colored if you’ll be walking near roads at dawn or dusk – in Sweden it’s common (and wise) to use small reflective pendants on your coat for visibility in low light.
  
• Transport off-season: Some ferry routes, especially to outer archipelago islands, switch to limited autumn schedules after mid-October. Always double-check the return times before you head out to an island hike or remote area – you don’t want to miss the last boat back. Similarly, the hop-on hop-off tourist boats pause in the off-season. The regular SL public transport (buses/trains) still runs frequently and is reliable year-round, so you won’t have trouble getting around the city.
  
• Museum timings: As the tourist rush calms, some museums reduce their opening hours slightly. It’s worth checking online before you go – for example, a museum might be closed on Mondays or close an hour earlier in autumn. The flip side is, you’ll enjoy much quieter galleries!
  
• Fika factor: Embrace the autumn fika culture. As it gets colder, Stockholmers love to pop into cozy cafés for a coffee and pastry. You’ll find seasonal treats like äppelkaka (apple cake) and semlor (though semla buns are more late winter, some start early). A warm cafe is a perfect refuge between activities – and you can linger without any rush.
  

Enjoy the slower, mysig (“cozy”) season – Stockholm’s autumn is all about enjoying the simple pleasures, from colorful walks to warm drinks. Embracing the calm and crisp beauty of these mys-månader (“cosy months”) will give you a true taste of local life. Skål! (Cheers!)