You want to go on an internship abroad in a capital city and you have strongly thought about Stockholm in Sweden but you have questions about life there! This is a very good question! You can learn all about life in Stockholm!
Living in Stockholm, a variable climate
Living in Stockholm means experiencing a climate that varies throughout the year. Situated close to the Baltic Sea, the city has four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm, while winters are cold, with temperatures often below zero. Autumns offer colourful landscapes with the leaves changing colour, while springs are characterised by the rebirth of nature after winter. The weather can be changeable, shifting quickly from sunny spells to showers, so you need to adapt to the variable conditions. The long sunny days of summer contrast with the shorter days and cold nights of winter. However, the changing climate also offers a variety of activities and experiences throughout the year, from enjoying the parks and lakes in summer to enjoying the Christmas markets and winter sports in winter.
In Stockholm, temperature differences can be quite marked between seasons, particularly between summer and winter. Here are the biggest temperature differences observed in the Swedish capital:
- Summer-winter difference: During the summer, temperatures in Stockholm can average 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, and even higher on the hottest days. In winter, on the other hand, temperatures can drop well below zero, with an average of -5 to -10 degrees Celsius. Icy days with temperatures of -15 degrees Celsius or more are not uncommon, especially during cold snaps.
- Daily variation: Even over the course of a single day, temperature differences can be quite significant. In summer, mornings can start cool with temperatures of around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, peaking in the afternoon with much warmer temperatures. In winter, the days can be very cold, with temperatures close to zero or below, while the hottest hours can reach a few degrees above zero.
Living in Stockholm, a higher cost of living than in France
Living in Stockholm as a student can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to be prepared for certain challenges, not least the higher cost of living than in France.
The cost of living in Stockholm is generally higher than in many French cities. Living expenses such as accommodation, food and transport can be more expensive. Housing, in particular, can represent a significant proportion of the monthly budget. Rents are often high, especially if you are looking to live close to the city centre or university campuses.
However, there are ways of mitigating these costs. As a student, you can benefit from discounts on certain services, such as public transport or meals in university restaurants. Shared accommodation can also be a more affordable option.
On the other hand, Stockholm offers a high quality of life with an abundance of learning opportunities and a rich cultural life. The city is renowned for its natural beauty, parks and green spaces, which offer pleasant places to relax free of charge.
Ultimately, although the cost of living can be a challenge, living in Stockholm can be an enriching and unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to discover a new culture, make new friends and develop skills that will be invaluable in the future. With good budget management and careful planning, you can make the most of your student adventure in Stockholm!
Living in Stockholm, how to get around?
Living in Stockholm means you have plenty of options for getting around the city. The transport system is well developed and offers a variety of means of locomotion. Here are a few options for getting around Stockholm:
- Public transport: Stockholm’s public transport network is very efficient and extensive. It includes the metro (Tunnelbana), suburban trains (Pendeltåg), trams (Spårvagn) and buses. Monthly or weekly season tickets give you reduced fares and access to the whole network.
- Cycling: Stockholm is a cyclist-friendly city. You can hire public bicycles, called “City Bikes”, to get around the city. Many districts are also equipped with cycle paths, making cycling a safe and pleasant experience.
- Walking: Stockholm is a great city for walking. Many districts are easily accessible on foot, allowing you to discover the city from a different angle and enjoy the architecture, parks and scenery.
- Boats: Stockholm is built on an archipelago of 14 islands, making it a very watery city. Water buses (Sjöbus) and ferries (Waxholmsbolaget) allow you to move easily between the different islands and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the water.
- Car: Although most Stockholmers use public transport or bicycles, the car is still an option. However, bear in mind that traffic can be heavy and it can be difficult to find parking spaces, especially in the city centre.
In short, living in Stockholm offers a wide variety of ways to get around the city. Whether you prefer to use public transport, cycle, walk or take the boat, you’ll find practical options to suit your needs as you explore this beautiful Swedish city.
Living in Stockholm, culinary specialities
In Sweden, and particularly in Stockholm, you’ll find many culinary specialities. The first speciality I can introduce you to is Köttbullar, which are minced meatballs with sauce, potatoes and blueberries. Then there’s Biff Lindström, which is very similar to a hamburger, with sweet and savoury flavours. Fish is often found on Stockholm plates. So it’s only natural that herring and salmon should be one of the country’s specialities. I’ll leave you in suspense for a moment, but you can also try other specialities that you’ll be able to discover on the spot! It’s also important to know that mealtimes in Sweden are different from those in other European countries, as Swedes eat at midday and in the evening at 6pm. So you won’t be able to go to a restaurant at 9pm in Stockholm. And if you want more information on Sweden’s culinary specialities, we’ve got a blog for that too!
Living in Stockholm, what to do in your free time?
You’ll be able to explore the streets of the city and discover every corner of Stockholm. You can also take advantage of nature by going for a bike ride or camping by the water. If you like brunch, there are plenty of brunch restaurants in Stockholm! You’re sure to find what you’re looking for! If you’re an art lover, you can visit the city’s art galleries and enjoy the exhibitions! As you can see, there’s plenty to do in Stockholm, and there’s a blog for that too!
Living in Stockholm, improving your English
Living in Stockholm offers an excellent opportunity to improve your level of English. Sweden, and Stockholm in particular, is renowned for the high level of English spoken by a large proportion of the population.
As a student living in Stockholm, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practise English on a daily basis. Here’s how you can improve your English during your stay:
- English courses: If you want to improve your English in a more formal way, you can take English courses at language schools or some universities. This will enable you to learn grammar, improve your vocabulary and practise speaking.
- Practise with locals: Swedes are generally very comfortable with English and many of them speak the language fluently. Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with locals, whether it’s with your classmates, work colleagues or simply socialising in cafés or at events.
- Living in an international flat-share: If you choose to live in a flat-share with international students, you will probably have the opportunity to communicate in English with your flatmates. This will allow you to practise your English in an informal and friendly setting.
- Watch films and series in English: Take advantage of cinemas and streaming platforms to watch films and series in English. This will allow you to familiarise yourself with the accent and idiomatic expressions of the English language.
- Take part in international events: Stockholm is a cosmopolitan city with many international events and activities. Attending conferences, exhibitions or theme evenings in English will allow you to interact with English speakers and immerse yourself further in the language.
All in all, living in Stockholm is a unique opportunity to improve your level of English thanks to the city’s international environment and the many opportunities to practise the language on a daily basis. Take advantage of this opportunity to perfect your language skills and enrich your student experience in Stockholm!
Living in Stockholm is really great! The city is a must-see, despite being one of the most expensive in Europe. We can’t recommend it highly enough! Don’t hesitate to contact us so that together we can organise your tailor-made work placement abroad in Stockholm!
For more general questions, visit the International Horizons Internships Abroad FAQ.