Sweden - Country House in Sweden

Introducing Sweden

About sweden.

  • Images of Sweden
  • History, language & culture
  • Weather & geography
  • Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

  • Travel to Sweden
  • Where to stay

While you’re there

  • Things to see & do
  • Shopping & nightlife
  • Food & drink
  • Getting around

Before you go

  • Passport & visa
  • Public Holidays
  • Money & duty free

Book your flights

  • Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport
  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport

Ski Resorts

  • Riksgränsen

Sweden travel guide

Sweden is a land of incredible contrasts, from the dense pine forests and craggy mountains of the north, to the rolling hills and glossy golden beaches of the south. But the diversity doesn't stop at the suburbs, with each of Sweden's seven major cities boasting its own character, history and unique architectural style.

Bordered by Denmark to the south, Norway to the west and Finland to the east, Sweden, the largest of the Scandinavian countries, boasts a long mercantile history that has made it one of the most culturally open and welcoming in Europe.

The instantly likeable capital Stockholm has long been synonymous with style and its sharply tailored brand of chic has percolated throughout the wardrobes of the world. Hipsters notwithstanding, Stockholm, with its 14 islands and medieval beauty, has much to offer those in search of culture, art and historical treasures. However, perhaps the most surprising city is Malmö, which has belied its unfairly grim reputation to become one of the country's liveliest destinations.

Beyond the cities, Sweden's countryside has a gentler charm than the rugged landscapes of neighbouring Norway. Much of Sweden is forested and there are thousands of lakes, including the large stretches of water between Gothenburg and Stockholm. The border with Norway is home to the spectacular Skanderna (Scandinavian) mountain chain, while in the far north you'll find wonderfully bleak Arctic tundra, where you can see the Northern Lights. The south is dominated by emerald forests, the cerulean waters of the Gulf of Bothnia and the jagged Baltic coastline. Of all the lovely spots in Sweden though, the awe-inspiring panoramas of the Stora Sjöfallet National Park take some beating. Part of the UNESCO-listed Laponian region of northern Sweden, the park's majestic waterfalls, soaring peaks and crowded clumps of fir trees make it one of the country's greatest natural treasures.

The Swedes are proud of their green country and believe the great outdoors should be available to everyone. Allemansrätten – the everyman's right – is a constitutional right that allows the public access to public and privately owned land for recreation. As long as you do not disturb or destroy nature, or infringe on the privacy of others (such as by walking too close to their house), you are free to roam the countryside. This right even allows people to pick wildflowers, berries and mushrooms – unless they are endangered.

449,964 sq km (173,732 sq miles).

9,851,852 (UN estimate 2016).

21.8 per sq km.

Constitutional monarchy.

King Carl XVI Gustaf since 1973.

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson since October 2022.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks

information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Sweden set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Swedish Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Sweden.

Accompanied under-18s

Carry a letter of consent from the parent or guardian of children under 18 who are travelling with you.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Sweden, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements .

To enter Sweden (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

  • have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
  • have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to .

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Sweden). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you haven’t overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

If you live in Sweden, read our Living in Sweden guide for passport stamping information.

At Swedish border control, you may also need to:

  • show proof of your accommodation
  • show proof of your travel insurance
  • show a return or onward ticket
  • prove that you have enough money for your stay

Border controls on arrival from Denmark and Germany

Border controls are in place in Sweden for people travelling from Denmark via the Öresund crossing and arriving on ferries from Denmark and Germany.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (which includes Sweden) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

  • as a tourist
  • to visit family or friends

to attend business meetings, cultural or sports event

  • for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Sweden and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Swedish government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Swedish Embassy in the UK .

If you stay in Sweden with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need in TravelHealthPro’s Sweden guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Sweden . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into the EU

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

Taking money into Sweden

Many shops, cafes and restaurants do not accept cash, so make sure you have a debit or credit card with you.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Sweden

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Sweden. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners.

The authorities in Sweden have successfully disrupted a number of planned attacks and made a number of arrests.

Political demonstrations

Demonstrations in Sweden are usually peaceful. Avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.

Protecting your belongings

Take particular care of your belongings in major cities as pickpockets often target tourists for passports and cash.

Violent crime does occur. Gang-related crime, including knife crime, shootings and explosions, have been reported in Malmö, Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Check carefully whether any job offers are genuine. Contact the British Embassy in Stockholm for more advice if necessary.

Laws and cultural differences

There are heavy punishments for importing illegal drugs. There is zero tolerance towards drugs; even petty drug use will lead to a penalty.

Paying for sex is illegal.

Physical punishment of children is illegal.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Sweden. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

You can drive in Sweden on your UK driving licence.

If you are planning to drive in Sweden, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC’s Sweden guide .

During winter, snow and ice on the roads cause accidents daily. From 1 December to 31 March, and any other times designated by the police, all vehicles must have winter tyres.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Arctic travel.

Parts of Sweden are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice .

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information read guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Sweden guide

where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Sweden

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Sweden .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Sweden.

If you’re visiting remote areas, consider how easily you will be able to access emergency services.

COVID-19 healthcare in Sweden

If you have any COVID-19 symptoms check the public health agency of Sweden for advice and contact numbers.

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) before leaving the UK. If you already have a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) , it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Swedish nationals. If you do not have your card with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

GHIC and EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Sweden

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

  • where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
  • how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

  • finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Sweden
  • dealing with a death in Sweden
  • being arrested or imprisoned in Sweden
  • getting help if you’re a victim of crime

what to do if you’re in hospital

  • if you’re affected by a crisis such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Sweden and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Stockholm .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Sweden Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 25, 2023

serene lakefront scene in Sweden

From the frozen lands up north to the rugged west coast to the picturesque islands of Stockholm , Sweden is one of my favorite countries in the world. (I love it so much I even spent time living here !)

While the country’s high prices scare budget travelers, Sweden is a country worth exploring. There are medieval cities, beautiful islands, tons of castles, the Northern Lights, a growing foodie scene, friendly people, incredible art, amazing hiking opportunities, and a super high quality of life.

When most people visit, they hit the major cities for a couple days and then head onwards to cheaper destinations. Few people spend extended time here — which is a huge mistake. There’s a lot to do here and the people are really welcoming of tourists. It’s also a lot cheaper than you think (especially if you embrace the outdoors).

The country isn’t the cheapest but this travel guide to Sweden will help you plan your visit, save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this Scandinavian gem!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Sweden

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in sweden.

Stockholm aerial view

1. Explore Stockholm

From the museums to nightlife, there’s so much to do in Stockholm that you’ll never get bored. Enjoy the picturesque harbor, charming Old Town, beautiful parks, and everything in between. I recommend spending at least 3 days here.

2. Catch the Midsummer Festival

Swedes celebrate the summer solstice with a giant party. They dance around a maypole, eat, drink, and enjoy nature. Every municipality in the country organizes events, so be sure to find some locals who can show you around. It’s the biggest party of the year!

3. Visit Gotland

Gotland is a popular place for Swedes to visit during the summer. The main town, Visby, is a medieval walled city that is incredibly beautiful to wander around. July is the most popular month so book accommodation in advance.

4. Hike the Kungsleden (King’s Trail)

This 440-kilometer (273-mile) trail stretches through some of the most remote and pristine landscapes in the country. It takes around one month to hike the entire trail, though it is broken up into week-long or day-hike sections.

5. Brave the cold in Lapland

Other things to see and do in sweden, 1. partake in fika.

Like “teatime” in the UK, fika is Sweden’s way of slowing down. Coffee, conversation, and a few baked goods (often cinnamon buns) are an important part of the social fabric in Sweden, allowing friends and colleagues to take a break from the day to day and just relax.

2. Stay in the Ice Hotel

Located up north in Jukkasjärvi, the Ice Hotel is a hotel built during the winter months out of (you guessed it) ice. There’s an ice bar, an ice dining room, and an ice bed (with big fur blankets!). Be prepared to pay the price for a unique stay like this, as nights cost upwards of 5,500 SEK! The hotel is also open for tours, allowing visitors to explore the impressive construction and design. A day pass to the hotel complex costs 295-349 SEK depending on the season. (The hotel has “regular” rooms as well in an adjacent building, which “only” cost 1,500-1,900 SEK per night.)

3. Tour the Stockholm Archipelago

Take a boat around different islands that surround Stockholm (there are thousands!). During the summer, they become big attractions for locals as they boat around and spend nights on the tiny islands. You can take a day tour or just spend a few nights on some of the islands. It’s super peaceful and relaxing and one of my top things to do during the summer!

4. Visit Gothenburg

Gothenburg is Sweden’s second-largest city. It sees a fraction of tourists compared to Stockholm so come here to beat the crowds, walk along the cobblestone pedestrian streets of Haga, window shop along the Avenyn, and visit Liseberg, one of the biggest theme parks in Scandinavia. The city has a much more laid-back vibe than Stockholm and offers plenty of nearby hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.

5. Explore the Bohuslän Coast

This beautiful coast is home to over 8,000 islands and almost 300 kilometers (185 miles) of coastline. The region is known for its fishing, swimming, and hiking and is one of the best spots in the country to get fresh seafood (don’t miss lobster season from late September until the end of November). There is also a UNESCO rock-carving site in Tanumshede with carvings and paintings dating back to the Bronze Age and Iron Age.

6. Go skiing

Scandinavians love their winter sports. One of the most popular ski resorts in the region is Åre, which lies 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Östersund (and around 600 kilometers/375 miles north of Stockholm). The highest peak at the resort is over 1,400 meters (4,590 feet). Daily trains run to the area from Stockholm. Lift tickets are generally around 600 SEK. Other areas that are great for skiing are Sälen, Vemdalen, and Branäs (Sälen and Branäs are the two southernmost options, though all are still several hours north of Gothenburg and Stockholm).

7. Kick back in Uppsala

Uppsala is a quiet university town about 25 minutes from the Arlanda Airport and an hour away from Stockholm by train. It’s filled with quirky shops, picturesque waterways, lovely parks, and beautiful bike trails. A lot of what’s here is centered around the university — from the vast library, home to more than 5 million volumes; to the Museum of Evolution, which boasts over 5 million zoological, botanical, and fossil specimens; to the Linnaean Gardens. You should definitely tour the university when you visit too.

8. Celebrate Valborg Day

Held on April 30th, this annual festival serves to welcome spring. It’s characterized by huge bonfires, even bigger parties, and is a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Municipalities organize events — including the massive bonfires — and many locals also host their own parties.

9. Check out Wallander’s Ystad

Wallander is one of Sweden’s most popular fictional characters. A detective in the city of Ystad, Wallander is the main character in a dozen novels and their corresponding TV episodes — all set in or around Ystad (there was even a UK adaptation of the series starring Kenneth Branagh). Located in Skåne, the town is quite picturesque and full of history. If you’re a big fan of Wallander, you can arrange a tour at the tourist office, but even if you’re not, the town itself has a lot of character and is worth exploring. It’s only one hour from Malmö and makes for a nice day trip.

10. Visit Kosterhavet National Park

Kosterhavet is a marine park located on and around the Koster Islands, which are located two hours north of Gothenburg. It’s the country’s first marine park and home to Sweden’s only coral reef as well as over 6,000 marine species (many of which don’t exist anywhere else in the country). The park spans almost 400 square kilometers (248 miles), and the islands are beautiful. Rent some bikes to get around and enjoy the rugged landscape and the wildlife that call it home (there’s a large seal colony here too). You can access the islands via the local ferry. Return tickets are 136 SEK.

11. Visit the Vasa Museum

This is hands-down a must-see museum in Stockholm. It houses the famous Vasa ship, which sank right as it set sail in the harbor in 1628 due to being too heavy to float. The cold sea kept the ship intact (so much so that it even has the original paint). The museum does a wonderful job of putting the ship into the historical context of the 17th century and Sweden’s Golden Age. There are English guided tours too. Admission is 170-190 SEK. Get your ticket in advance here .

12. Let loose at Liseberg

Located in Gothenburg, this is the biggest amusement park in Scandinavia. There are rollercoasters, a haunted house, tons of rides for kids, and a giant Ferris wheel with stunning views of the city. Concerts by popular artists are common here too and it gets a huge transformation for Halloween and Christmas! Admission is 95 SEK while admission and unlimited rides are 255 SEK.

13. Explore the Universeum

If you’re traveling with kids (or just want to act like a kid) head to Universeum in Gothenburg. It’s an interactive science center that opened in 2011, offering an indoor rainforest, a chemistry lab, dinosaur exhibits, and much more. It’s a great way to have fun and learn a thing or two along the way. Admission is 225 SEK for adults and 175 SEK for kids under 16.

14. See the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, light up the skies of Scandinavia each winter, drawing thousands of visitors to witness the spectacle. The best time to see the lights is from late September to late March, from around 9pm-2am. You’ll want to travel north to the sparsely populated Lapland for the best chance to see the lights (you can’t really see them in southern Sweden).

15. See Stockholm’s stunning subway art

Stockholm’s subway system also doubles as the world’s longest art gallery. Since 1957, artists have been invited to decorate the subterranean stations with their work, and today over 90 out of 100 stations feature public art. Kungsträdgården is one of the most famous stations and features a colorful abstract garden complete with sculptures formerly housed at the palace. If you don’t want to do it solo, you can book a guided tour to ensure you don’t miss anything!

16. Visit Drottningholm Palace

Located just 30 minutes outside of Stockholm, this 17th-century palace is the most well-preserved palace in all of Sweden. Modeled after the Palace of Versailles, the UNESCO-listed complex includes ornate gardens, a theater, a Chinese Pavilion, and elaborately decorated interiors. It is the official private residence of the Swedish royal family and is only open on weekends. Admission is 140 SEK or 170 SEK including a guided tour in English.

17. Experience the Göta Canal

This 19th-century waterway connects a system of lakes and rivers from the Baltic Sea in the east to Gothenburg in the west. The canal is 190 kilometers (120 miles) long and has 47 bridges and 58 locks. You can enjoy the canal via guided tour, by renting your own boat, or by cycling down the towpaths lining the banks. The canal is open from May to the end of September.

18. Get outside in the national parks

Spending time in nature is an integral part of Swedish life and culture. In 1909, Sweden was the first country to establish a national parks system. Today, there are 30 national parks to enjoy – all with free entry. One of the most popular parks is Abisko National Park in Lapland, where visitors come to hike, ski, and snowshoe, as well as view the midnight sun and aurora borealis. Wild camping is legal in Sweden, making it a great destination to travel if you have a tent and want to experience the untamed outdoors.

  For more information on specific cities in Sweden, check out these guides:

  • Gothenburg Travel Guide
  • Stockholm Travel Guide

Sweden Travel Costs

Aerial view of a harbor filled with sailboats and islands in the background in Gothenburg, Sweden

Accommodation – Accommodation, like everything in Sweden, is not cheap. Hostels start around 250 SEK per night for a dorm and about 650 SEK for a private room. Most hostels in Sweden also add a 30-80 SEK surcharge for bed linen to offset the cost of cleaning (you can bring your own sheets, but sleeping bags are not permitted).

Budget hotels cost around 700-900 SEK per night. Cheaper options are available however they usually necessitate sharing a bathroom with other guests. Read the fine print so you’re not surprised. Expect free Wi-Fi, a TV, and a coffee/tea maker in most budget hotels.

Wild camping is a good budget option as it is legal (and FREE!) to camp almost anywhere in Sweden. Sweden has ‘Freedom to Roam’ laws that allow anyone to camp anywhere for 1 night (even if it’s private property). You need to make sure you are not camping near someone’s house, that you take all trash with you when you leave, and that you aren’t in a farmer’s field or garden. But other than that, you can pretty much throw your tent anywhere!

If wild camping is not your thing, campgrounds are also common though many require a Camping Key Europe card. You can purchase it at your campsite or online for 160 SEK. Most campsites have modern facilities, including toilets and showers. Expect most plots to cost around 200 SEK per night.

Food – Food in Sweden is hearty and based heavily on meat, fish, and root vegetables. One of the most iconic and popular dishes is meatballs and a creamy sauce with potatoes and lingonberry jam. Crayfish, shrimp, mushrooms, and fresh summer berries are other popular staples. For breakfast, Swedes usually eat dark bread with cheese and vegetables. For fika, cinnamon buns are the go-to choice for many.

Eating out is expensive in Sweden. You can get cheap food from outdoor street vendors starting at 50 SEK, though they are few and far between. You can get hot dogs for around 30 SEK at places like 7-Eleven and Pressbyran.

Your best bet for cheap food (when it comes to restaurants) is Thai and Middle Eastern restaurants. You can usually find meals for around 65 SEK. Thai restaurants have large portions too, which means you can sometimes get an extra meal from the leftovers. Lunch buffets are another good budget-friendly option. Buffet prices are around 100 SEK but you can fill up and get your money’s worth.

Many convenience stores and cafes offer pre-packaged sandwiches and meals for 50-100 SEK if you’re on the go and want a quick bite. Whole pizzas cost around 65-95 SEK and most nice sit-down restaurant meals begin at 200 SEK for a main dish. The cheapest grocery store chain is Willy’s, though ICA and Lidl also have good deals as well.

If you’re looking for a drink, beer can be as cheap as 40 SEK, though 65-75 SEK is more common. Wine costs around 55-75 SEK at your average restaurant, and cocktails set you back around 100 SEK. If you’re on a budget and want to drink, stick to beer. You can buy your own alcohol at the government-run Systembolaget for even greater savings.

Grocery shopping here costs around 600-700 SEK per week, however, if you cut down on your meat and cheese intake (some of the most expensive food items in Sweden) you can lower your costs significantly.

Backpacking Sweden Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend around 775 SEK per day. On this budget, you’re staying in a hostel dorm or camping, cooking your own meals, using public transportation, and participating in cheap activities like visiting museums, hiking, or taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range of budget of 1,600 SEK per day, you can stay in private hostel rooms, eat out more, drink a bit, take guided tours, and visit a wider range of activities!

On a “luxury” budget of 2,200 SEK or more per day, you can afford to stay in a hotel, hire a rental car, eat out for every meal, and do as many activities as you want.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SEK.

Sweden Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Sweden is expensive. There are just no two ways about it. But, while it may not be the most budget-friendly destination, there are still plenty of ways to save while you’re here. It takes some work, and you won’t be able to eat or drink out a lot, but it can be done! Here are some tips to save money in Sweden:

  • Drink beer – Alcohol isn’t cheap in Sweden as it is heavily taxed. However, beer is quite affordable. If you stick to beer, you can save yourself a lot of money when you go to the bars. To save even more, buy your beer from the Systembolaget (the government-run store that sells alcohol) and save even more (as much as 50%).
  • Book in advance – My trip to the Stockholm train station taught me that travel around Sweden is expensive when you are booking only a day or two beforehand. Booking trains or buses three to four weeks in advance can get you around 40-50% off. Flixbus, SJ, and MTR are the major companies to consider, with MTR being the cheapest train company. Flixbus is a budget-friendly option as well if you’d rather take the bus over the train.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle – The tap water in Sweden, as in all of Scandinavia, is perfectly drinkable. In fact, tap water in Sweden is often cleaner than bottled water! Bring a refillable water bottle and save your money — and the environment! To make sure your water is extra safe, bring a LifeStraw . They have built-in filters and are perfect for traveling!
  • Purchase a city tourism card – These tourist passes give you access to a city’s public transportation system and free entrance into 99% of the museums and attractions. If you plan on seeing the majority of attractions and museums, one of these cards will save you money. (Savings will vary depending on how much you use the card.) The Stockholm Pass, for example, includes access to 60 attractions for just 669 SEK for a 1-day pass and 989 SEK for a 2-day pass (which is the much better choice as there is a lot to see!).
  • Skip the restaurants – Eating out in Sweden is very expensive, especially if you are going to a sit-down restaurant. If you want to eat out, stick to the outside food vendors you see on the street. You can find a decent variety and they are only about 65 SEK per meal. You can also get cheap hotdogs and sausages for about 30 SEK. If you’re craving take-out, stick to Thai and Middle Eastern food, as they are usually the cheapest.
  • Go for the buffet – Lunch is the best time to eat out in Sweden. Buffets and restaurants have set meals for around 105 SEK. It’s the best deal you can find and one utilized a lot by locals. Don’t miss Hermitage in Stockholm for a cozy, home-cooked meal!
  • Avoid clubs – Most clubs have a 250 SEK (or more) cover. Don’t waste your money.
  • Get a metro card – Each region of Sweden has its own public transportation operator, and transportation cards will include buses, trams, subways, and boats. Prices will vary for each region, so be sure to enquire when you arrive. If you will be in a city for a few days, be sure to grab a tourist pass. At 415 SEK for a week’s worth of train rides in Stockholm or 210 SEK for 3 days of buses in Gothenburg, these cards definitely save you money.
  • Check for deals – When you’re shopping for groceries, check the flyer first and pay attention to what’s on sale. It’s not a “cool” way to save, but by paying attention to what’s on sale you can likely save yourself a few kronor (and a few kronor can make a difference here!).

Where to Stay in Sweden

Hostels are not all that plentiful across Sweden, mostly available in the three main cities of Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo. Outside the big cities, you’ll likely need stay in budget guesthouses or use Airbnb. Here are my recommended places to stay while you’re in Sweden:

  • City Backpackers (Stockholm)
  • Skanstulls Hostel (Stockholm)
  • Slotsskogen Hostel (Gothenburg)
  • Backpackers Goteborg (Gothenburg)
  • HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City (Malmö)

How to Get Around Sweden

Colorful historic buildings lining a plaza in Gamla Stan, the old town of Stockholm, Sweden

Public Transportation – Public transportation in Sweden is incredible. You can not only use it to explore the cities but also the countryside and less-visited towns and villages as well. Tickets vary in each region and are usually based on how far you travel. A single-fare ticket in Gothenburg costs around 28 SEK, though you can also take a public bus (and then a ferry) from Gothenburg out to many of the nearby islands for around 120 SEK (some of which are 2-3 hours away!)

The public transportation in Stockholm is 38 SEK per ticket, making the day pass (or multi-day pass) your best choice. Most cities have an app you can download to manage and pay for your tickets. No one will inspect your ticket when you board but there are roaming ticket checks and, if you get caught without paying, you’ll be fined hundreds of dollars.

Intercity Buses – Buses booked a month or more in advance can be found for as cheap as 80 SEK. However, those tickets are limited in number, and typically buses cost 225–405 SEK. The 8-hour trip from Stockholm to Malmö generally costs 280-370 SEK while the 6.5-hour trip from Stockholm to Gothenburg is around 250-340 SEK. For the cheapest prices, use Flixbus .

If you are arriving at an airport, Flygbussarna is the main shuttle company, with tickets around 119 SEK from major airports to the nearest downtown (Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö). Flixbus also manages some airport shuttles though they are much less frequent (they are cheaper, however).

Train – Most intercity trains cost 350–700 SEK, though tickets for as low as 185 SEK can be found for routes between Stockholm and Gothenburg (a journey which takes between 3-4 hours) when booked in advance.

Overnight trains, like the fifteen-hour trip from Stockholm to Luleå, cost between 700–1,215 SEK per person.

The Arlanda Express, the train from Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport to the central station, is 299 SEK for a one-way ticket. The journey takes around 20 minutes, while the bus takes closer to 45 minutes and costs 119 SEK.

Flying – While distances in the south are short enough for comfortable train and bus rides, if you’re heading up north a plane is more convenient. Flights from Stockholm to Kiruna start at around 700 SEK for the 4-hour flight (the train takes over 15 hours).

If you’re short on time, the flight from Stockholm to Gothenburg takes just under an hour and usually costs around 400 SEK.

Car Rental – You can rent a car in Sweden for around 500 SEK per day. Just keep in mind that the majority of the cars here are manual so you need to be able to drive stick. With efficient public transportation and plenty of intercity bus and train options, I would suggest against renting a car unless you’re planning to do a road trip. Driving in the cities isn’t the most fun and parking is very expensive.

When to Go to Sweden

The ideal time to visit Sweden is between June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are (really) long. The country is at its liveliest during this time, and you will find locals taking advantage of the good weather at every opportunity. The parks are always full, and there are always fun events happening around town. Temperatures are often in the 20s Celsius (60s and 70s Fahrenheit) during the summer months.

The downside to visiting then is that, since Sweden has a very short summer, the cities can get busy so be sure to book your accommodation in advance. This is especially true if you are visiting during Midsommar, the big Swedish holiday at the end of June. It’s a great time to experience Swedish traditions (which involve a lot of drinking).

May typically has great weather with occasional rain, while September offers cooler temperatures and changing leaves. You’ll beat the crowds and still be able to explore the city on foot without the weather getting in your way (too much).

Attractions begin to close around late September, and the days get dark early in October. Temperatures start dropping around this time too. However, prices also decrease, and you’re likely to find cheaper airfares and accommodations during this time. Be sure to pack layers if you plan on visiting during this time of year.

The winter is very cold and sees a lot of snow and darkness. In the depths of the winter, you only get a few hours of light each day and temperatures plummet below 0ºC (32ºF). The plus side of traveling during the off-season, however, is that you’ll get the cheapest accommodations and fees for certain attractions will be lower as well. While Stockholm is particularly beautiful in winter, you won’t want to be walking around as much in the cold. Since it’s a great city to explore on foot, you will potentially be missing out so I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re coming to enjoy winter sports.

How to Stay Safe in Sweden

Sweden is one of the safest countries in the world. In fact, it ranks 15th on the ranking of the world’s safest countries! It’s a great destination for solo travelers — including solo female travelers.

Taxis are quite safe and crime is rare against travelers. But keep your wits up and never travel alone at night if you’ve been drinking, just to be safe.

As in any larger city, it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for pickpockets, especially around the train stations and on public transportation. And as always, never leave your drink unattended when out at the bar.

Scams here are virtually non-existent, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you do experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Sweden Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Stockholm Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Sweden and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

Where to Stay in Stockholm: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Stockholm: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 9 Best Hostels in Stockholm

The 9 Best Hostels in Stockholm

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

The Swedish Birthday Party

The Swedish Birthday Party

10 Ways to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

10 Ways to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

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Walk in the fairy tale Gamla Stan in Stockholm

One of the oldest and best preserved medieval centres in all of Europe, Gamla Stan is a maze of alleyways and baroque style architecture in the heart of Stockholm’s old town. Allow yourself time to explore the cafes, galleries and museums of this 12th century playground.

See the medieval Storkyrkan

Built during the 13th century, “The Great Church” of Storkyrkan is a magnificent cathedral inspired by Gothic design. As impressive as the exterior is, it’s the interior’s large collection of statues and furnishings, including the famous wooden statue of St George slaying the dragon, that will truly leave you in awe.

Visit Royal Palace at the heart of Stockholm's Old Town

The former residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden is an architectural feat with over 600 rooms, found in the centre of Stockholm. Open to the public daily, you can gaze upon Queen Kristina’s silver throne and marvel at the centuries old interiors.

See Lake Vanern, The Largest Lake In The European Union

Spend a day at the EU’s biggest lake and partake in a variety of water activities such as sailing, canoeing, fishing and swimming. On land you can soak up the sunshine whilst dining on Scandinavian treats by the waterfront, making the most of the picturesque sandy beaches.

Enjoy a drink at the world's first Ice Bar

Icebar Stockholm was the first permanent ice bar ever created. Built from 40 tonnes of ice, the bar is adorned by a variety of every changing ice statues. Sip a cool cocktail in -5 degrees Celsius after a big day of exploring.

Our top 5 things to do in Sweden

Whether you journey for history, culture, nature, or a combination of it all, Trafalgar’s deep dive into Sweden will capture your heart. These are just some of the things to do in Sweden you cannot miss.

ABBA Museum

Celebrate the career of pop icons, ABBA at this interactive museum. Record a song with the virtual ABBA and marvel at the band’s costume collection. Entry also grants access to the Swedish Music Hall Of Fame where you can follow the progress of the modern Swedish music scene.

Vasa Museum

A centrepiece of Scandinavia’s museums is a 17th-century ship raised from the seabed off the coast of Stockholm. Explore the story behind the remarkably preserved Vasa whilst being educated on the country’s impressive naval history.

Skansen Museum

Five centuries of history are on display at the world’s oldest open-air museum, Skansen. Here you can observe local traditions and craftsmanship across 150 farms and lodgings, including a zoo featuring domestic and wild Nordic animals. A complete taste of Swedish culture in one dedicated place.

Best museums in Sweden

Over 50 museums can be found scattered throughout Stockholm, giving you the chance to quench your thirst for knowledge over and over again. With Trafalgar as your guide, you’ll be perfectly steered through the cultural gold mine that is Stockholm museums.

Jansson's Temptation

The Swedish take on casserole is a surprisingly tasty dish made from potatoes, onions, cured sprat, breadcrumbs and cream. Though it is a Christmas speciality, you can find the acquired fish taste of Jansson’s all year round.

Nodding to Sweden’s fondness for baked dough, knäckebröd is a traditional crisp Swedish bread made mostly from rye flour. Try it topped with butter, cheese and ham for a delicious on-the-go snack.

Crayfish August

Throughout the month of August, Swedes celebrate the end of summer and welcome the start of autumn by throwing crayfish parties. Expect traditional songs, party hats, drinking and the consumption of many, many crayfish.

Best food in Sweden

Food is a big part of Swedish culture, best proved by the afternoon ritual of fika – a break enjoyed with a sweet pastry and coffee. From meatballs to crisp breads and crayfish, our trips to Sweden uncover the tastes and heritage of traditional Sweden food. 

What to pack for Sweden

People packing for a tour

An All-Weather Jacket

No matter the time of year, a jacket is a must in your Sweden travel bag. Go for something lightweight yet warm, waterproof and windproof, and you will be ready for all Swedish weather conditions.

A legitimate camera

While most people are content with using their phone for holiday snaps, if you truly want to capture the beauty of this city you should bring a specialist camera.

Comfortable shoes

One minute you’re walking through Stockholm’s old town, the next your hiking through alpine landscapes in the far north. A comfortable pair of walking shoes will get you through all environments on your trip to Sweden.

A refillable water bottle

You’ll spend most of your time on the move in Sweden. Bring a reusable, lightweight and durable water bottle to keep rehydrated while doing your bit for the environment.

Even in winter, the sun’s glare can be your enemy. A slick pair of sunglasses will not only protect your eyes but will also help you fit in with the fashionable Swedish locals.

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Travel Guide Sweden

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The mere mention of Sweden conjures up resonant images: snow-capped peaks, reindeer wandering in deep green forests and the 24-hour daylight of the midnight sun. But beyond the household names of ABBA , IKEA and Volvo, Sweden is relatively unknown. The largest of the Scandinavian countries, with an area twice that of Britain (and roughly that of California), but a population of barely nine million, Sweden has space for everyone: the countryside boasts pine, spruce and birch forest as far as the eye can see and crystal-clear lakes perfect for a summer afternoon dip – not to mention possibly the purest air you’ll ever breathe. The country’s south and west coasts, meanwhile, feature some of the most exquisite beaches in Europe – without the crowds.

Where to go in Sweden

Midsummer mayhem, northern lights, sweden’s brown bears, the winter swede and the summer swede.

In general Sweden is a carefree place where life is relaxed. Indeed, the Swedes’ liberal and open attitude to virtually every aspect of life is certainly one of their most enviable qualities; people are generally left to do their own thing, providing it doesn’t impinge on the rights and freedoms of others. In Sweden, rights go hand in hand with duties, and there’s a strong sense of civic obligation (count how few times you see people dropping litter, for example), which in turn makes for a well-rounded and stable society. Many of the cornerstones of the Swedish welfare state, such as tremendously generous benefits and health-care perks, which Swedes still hold dear today, were laid down during forty years of unbroken rule by the Social Democrats.

Yet, over the years, foreigners have somehow confused the open Swedish attitude to society, including nudity and sexuality, with sex. Contrary to popular belief, Sweden isn’t populated solely with people waiting for any opportunity to tear off their clothes and make passionate love under the midnight sun. It is, though, a country founded on honesty and straight talking – two of Sweden’s most refreshing qualities.

Sweden is principally a land of forests and lakes. Its towns and cities are small by European standards and are mostly located in the southern third of the country, where the majority of Swedes live. Of its cities, serenely beautiful Stockholm is supreme. Sitting elegantly on fourteen different islands, where the waters of Lake Mälaren meet the Baltic Sea, the city boasts some fantastic architecture, fine museums and by far the best culture and nightlife in the country. The 24,000 islands which comprise the Stockholm archipelago are a perfect antidote to the urban bustle, offering endless opportunities to explore unspoilt island villages and to go swimming. On the west coast, Gothenburg, the country’s second city, is also one of Sweden’s most appealing destinations. Gothenburgers have a reputation for being among the friendliest people in Sweden, and the city’s network of canals and spacious avenues is reminiscent of Amsterdam, whose architects designed it.

The Bothnian coast

The south is the most cosmopolitan part of the country, owing to the proximity of Denmark and the rest of the European continent, and home to the glorious ancient university seat of Lund, while nearby Malmö, Sweden’s third city, heaves with youthful nightlife around its medieval core.

Inland, southern Sweden boasts some handsome lakes, the two largest of which, Vänern and Vättern, provide splendid backdrops to some beautiful towns, not least the evocative former royal seat and the monastic centre of Vadstena, and Karlstad, the sunshine capital of Värmland, a rugged province ideal for river-rafting trips. To the east of the mainland lies Gotland, justifiably raved about as a haven for summer revelry, especially within the medieval walls of its unspoilt Hanseatic city, Visby.

Central and northern Sweden represent the most quintessentially “Swedish-looking” part of the country. In the centre lies Dalarna, an area of rolling hills and villages that’s home to Lake Siljan, one of Sweden’s most beautiful lakes. North of here lies some of the country’s most enchanting scenery, home to bears, wolves and reindeer. To the east, the shoreline of the Bothnian coast contains the north’s biggest cities: Sundsvall, Umeå and Luleå are all enjoyable, lively places in which to break your journey north.

The far north, inside the Arctic Circle, is the home of the Sámi – Sweden’s indigenous people. Known as Swedish Lapland, it is also the land of reindeer, elk and bears, of swiftly flowing rivers and coniferous forest, all traversed by endless hiking routes. Sweden’s northernmost town, Kiruna makes an excellent base for exploring the region’s national parks and the world-famous Icehotel in nearby Jukkasjärvi. Swedish Lapland is also where you will experience the midnight sun: in high summer the sun never sets, whilst in midwinter the opposite is true, though you may be lucky enough to see the sky lit up by the multicoloured patterns of the northern lights, or aurora borealis.

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Discover more places in Sweden

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  • Gothenburg Travel Guide
  • The southeast Travel Guide
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  • Stockholm Travel Guide
  • Swedish Lapland Travel Guide

• Sweden is the third largest country in western Europe – behind only France and Spain – stretching 1600km from north to south. If the country were pivoted around on its southernmost point, the top of the country would reach as far south as Naples in Italy.

• There is no translation for the Swedish word lagom , one of the most commonly used terms in the language. Roughly speaking, it means “just the right amount, not too much but not too little”, a concept that is the very essence of Swedishness.

• More than half of Sweden’s land surface is covered with forest – mostly coniferous – punctuated by an astonishing 100,000 lakes .

• Sweden is home to the world’s first and largest hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Icehotel is built in December using blocks of ice cut from the local Torne River. The hotel melts back into the river in May.

• In northern Sweden frozen lakes and rivers are used by drivers looking for a shortcut to their destination. The national road agency marks out “ ice roads ” and decides when the ice is thick enough to support a vehicle.

An atmosphere akin to Mediterranean joie de vivre takes over Sweden during the midsummer solstice (the weekend closest to June 24), when maypoles are erected as giant fertility symbols in gardens and parks across the country. Midsummer is not a time for staying in towns – everyone heads to the countryside and coasts, with Dalarna, the island of Öland and the shores of the Bohuslän coast being just a few of the most popular spots. Aided in no small part by copious quantities of alcohol , the population’s national characteristics of reserve and restraint dissolve over midsummer weekend. Long trestle tables draped in white cloths and sagging under the weight of multiple varieties of herring, potatoes with dill and gallons of akvavit are set up outside, and parties go on through the light night with dancing to the strains of accordions and fiddles.

Also known by their Latin name, aurora borealis , the northern lights are visible all across northern Sweden during the dark months of winter. These spectacular displays of green-blue shimmering arcs and waves of light are caused by solar wind, or streams of particles charged by the sun, hitting the atmosphere. The colours are the characteristic hues of different elements when they hit the plasma shield that protects the Earth: blue is nitrogen and yellow-green oxygen. Although the mechanisms which produce the aurora are not completely understood, the displays are generally more impressive the closer you get to the poles – low temperatures are also rumoured to produce some of the most dramatic performances. Gällivare and Kiruna , both well inside the Arctic Circle, are arguably the best places in Sweden to catch a glimpse of the aurora, particularly during the coldest winter months from December to February. Although displays can range from just a few minutes to several hours, the night sky must be clear of cloud to see the northern lights from Earth.

It’s estimated there are currently over three thousand brown bears in Sweden, the highest number since the 1800s, roaming across an area stretching from the far north as far south as northern Värmland. Since the early 1940s it’s been legal in Sweden to hunt bears every autumn to keep the population in check and each year around 250 animals are culled. Although it’s rare to spot a bear in the wild, should you be hiking in an area where bears are present, you’re advised to whistle or talk loudly to alert the bear to your presence, particularly in autumn when they are present in the forests gorging on wild berries ahead of hibernation.

Unsurprisingly, the long, dark winters have a tangible effect on the Swedish psyche . During the winter months, you’ll find that people are generally quieter and more withdrawn, and protect themselves from the rigours of the cold and dark by deliberately socializing indoors, often choosing to light candles throughout the home to create a sense of cosiness. You’ll even see candles burning in public buildings and shops to brighten up the gloomiest time of year. It’s during winter that Seasonal Affective Disorder, or S.A.D. , causes widespread depression, affecting roughly one in five people. Although you’re unlikely to suffer during a short visit in winter, you’re likely to encounter gloomy faces and a general sense of inertia throughout the winter months. S.A.D. is caused by a lack of daylight which leads to an increase in the production of the sleep-related hormone, melatonin, secreted from a gland in the brain. Naturally people do all they can to alleviate the effects of winter; for example, during the period of 24-hour darkness in northern Sweden, the Winter Swede creates a semblance of day and night by switching on bright lights during what would be daytime, and using low-lighting during the evening hours. Once spring arrives, there’s a notable bounce in people’s step, and the Summer Swede prepares to emerge from months of enforced hibernation – you’ll see people sitting in lines on park benches in the sunshine, faces tilted to the sky, making the most of the return of the sun. Festivals and revelries are thick on the ground in spring and summer, and outdoor life is lived to the full, including picnics under the midnight sun, beach parties lasting late into the night and an exodus to the countryside as people take up residence in their forest or lakeside log cabins to enjoy the brief yet intense summer months. For more on when to visit Sweden, head here.

Travel advice for Sweden

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Sweden

  • How to get to Sweden
  • Sports and Outdoor activities in Sweden
  • Culture and Etiquette in Sweden
  • Eating and drinking in Sweden
  • Getting around Sweden: Transportation Tips
  • Travel Tips Sweden for planning and on the go
  • Best time to visit Sweden

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The World Was Here First

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Sweden Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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From lush boreal forests to cobblestone streets, this 5 to 7 days in Sweden itinerary will take you off the beaten path and give you a look into what makes this country what it is as well as such a happy place to visit.

Being the largest Nordic and Scandinavian country as well as one of the largest countries in Europe, it can become a daunting task to plan a trip across Sweden. Tourists typically tend to flock directly to the capital city of Stockholm , but in reality, the country has so much more to offer.

With this itinerary, you’ll have a remarkable trip full of delicious food, nature, sleek and classic Swedish cities, and everything in between.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sweden?

While 2 days are probably enough if you’re just hoping to visit a major city such as Stockholm or Gothenburg, you’re just dipping your toes into the country.

For those searching to get a good feel of Sweden and experience nature as well as city life, 5 days in Sweden should suffice at a minimum.

If you’re hoping to take a bit of a slower pace and be in less of a rush, I suggest spending 7 days exploring Sweden.

Any time beyond that will only enrich your experience, as it’s such a vast country and to see most of the regions, it’ll take more time if you want to spend multiple days in various areas.

For example, Swedish Lapland is more popular in the winter months when visitors can view the Northern Lights and due to the distance from Stockholm or other major cities, you’ll want to plan for at least 4 days in Lapland beyond 1-2 days in Stockholm.

In the warmer months, southern Sweden is quite popular and worth visiting and most things are quite close, so it’s more feasible to do a shorter trip. 

Scenic Swedish countryside

Getting To & Around Sweden

This itinerary starts in Stockholm, so the easiest airport to fly into is Stockholm’s Arlanda International Airport, located in Arlanda, a town about an hour away from the Stockholm archipelago.

Another option when looking to plan a Sweden itinerary is to fly into Copenhagen’s Kastrup airport which is conveniently located just a short train ride from the city of Malmo, Sweden’s third-largest city. 

As for getting around while spending time in Sweden, the best ways are either by hire car or by Swedish train transportation. Both modes of transport are great and efficient, but the one you’ll ultimately decide to go with depends on your needs during your trip.

As this trip goes to quite a few destinations within Sweden, the cost will likely come out around the same whether you decide to hire a car or strictly travel by train.

If you decide on a Sweden road trip with a hire car, you’ll have more independence and freedom to decide when you’ll travel and exactly where you’ll go but in comparison to train transport, if you’re not super keen on driving throughout a trip, train transport will give you more relaxed journeys.

The time of year will also make a big difference regarding your method of transport. Swedish winters can be quite brutal, snowy, and icy, so if you’re visiting in the winter and are hoping to make it to Lapland, train transport is the best option if you’re not an incredibly experienced driver with the appropriate hire car. 

Whether you decide to travel by car or train, it’s good to keep in mind that the longer you wait to book a car or a train ticket, the higher prices will be — especially if you’re hoping to travel to Sweden during the summer high season. 

For those who think a road trip in Sweden is their best bet, then we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to compare prices across several companies. Alternatively, you can book train tickets in advance here.

Arlanda Airport

5 to 7-Day Sweden Itinerary

As a country with such varying landscapes and history, Sweden is truly a joy to visit. One moment you’re surrounded by dense nature; whether it be solemn seas or deep forests, and another moment you’ll find yourself in the high-tech, stylish Scandinavian big brother that it is. 

Day 1 – Stockholm

Day 1 begins in the vibrant capital city of Stockholm. Spending one or two days in the capital city is a great way to acquaint yourself with Sweden in general and you won’t be at a loss for ways to spend your time while in Stockholm.

Stockholm is quite a large city and you could easily spend a number of days wandering around the center and the deeper corners of the city. However, if you’re short on time, one or two days is enough to experience most of the important parts and to explore the capital of Sweden

Make sure to wander around the medieval, cobblestoned, and colourful Gamla Stan (Old Town) neighborhood, check out one of the city’s many fantastic museums (the Vasa Museum is the most loved and appreciated museum in all of Scandinavia), and wander around the Royal Palace of Sweden while also witnessing the changing of the guard.

To maximise what you see during your time in Stockholm, consider taking a walking tour , bike tour or short archipelago cruise. You should also consider a Stockholm Go City Pass if you plan to visit many paid attractions.

Old Town of Stockholm

Where to Stay in Stockholm

Scandic No 53 – This 3-star hotel located close to the top attractions in Stockholm makes for a great base in the Swedish capital. Perfect for mid-range travelers, they have a number of comfortable rooms available and there’s even an on-site bar.

Downtown Camper by Scandic – Luxury visitors to Stockholm will love this plush, 4-star hotel in the centre of the Swedish capital. Perfectly located to see all the city has to offer, they have a number of elegant rooms to choose from and countless other amenities to ensure you have a wonderful stay.

Gamla Stan Apartments – For those who like to have their own flat while traveling, these apartments are an excellent choice. Centrally located for exploring all that Stockholm has to offer, they have a range of flats on offer and they’re all fully furnished with everything you may need.

Castanea Old Town Hostel – This hostel is an excellent choice for those visiting Stockholm solo or on a budget. They have a range of dorms and some private rooms available, great common areas and a location perfect for exploring the Swedish capital.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Stockholm hotels!

Day 2 – Sigtuna

One of the great things about Sweden is the proximity of special small towns to major cities. On day 2 of this itinerary, you’ll head about an hour away from Stockholm to Sweden’s oldest town, Sigtuna.

Sigtuna dates back to 970 CE and as Sweden’s first city, it just shows how far back and rich the history of the country is. Sigtuna is quite a small and quaint city and that makes it the perfect day trip and is one of the best places to visit in the country.

Begin your day on the idyllic Stora Gatan (Sweden’s oldest pedestrian street) meandering through shops, enjoying a Fika with coffee and a Swedish treat and taking in the traditional architecture and homes.

It’s also worth checking out the Runestones of Sigtuna, the oldest known texts in Swedish dating back to the 4th century CE. There’s a large amount of them in the city, so head to the city hall (worth a visit in itself) to obtain a map to direct you to their locations.

Afterwards, head back to Stockholm for your last night in the city.

If you prefer to do this day trip on an organised tour, this full-day tour goes to Sigtuna and Uppsala , focusing on Viking history. Alternatively, this half-day tour focuses primarily on Sigtuna.

Alternatively, if Sigtuna doesn’t suit, consider heading out to visit the grand Drottningholm Palace.

Sigtuna. Sweden

Day 3 – Orebro 

After spending two nights in Stockholm, day 3 will bring you about 2 hours away from Stockholm to the 13th-century town of Orebro located in the central part of Sweden.

While much of this trip to Sweden route, visiting Orebro is a great opportunity to experience a town in central Sweden.

Like most other cities and towns in Sweden, Orebro has a stunning city center, and many will even say that it’s one of the nicest in the country.

During your visit make sure to visit the Orebro Castle, located on a picturesque islet in the city, wander around the city center, and head to the Svamp Water Tower to get incredible Panoramic views of the city.

I suggest staying in Orebro on the third night of this itinerary as it’s a really lovely city to have a break from large-city Swedish life and enjoy a slower pace. 

Orebro Castle

Where to Stay in Orebro

Livin Station Hotel – This small, 3-star hotel in Orebro is a great accommodation choice for those visiting Sweden on a mid-range budget . They have a range of modern and comfortable rooms on offer and a great location in order to explore all this lovely town has to offer.

Clarion Collection Hotel Borgen – If you’re looking for luxury in Orebro, then this hotel is an excellent choice. They have a range of plush rooms available, a fantastic location for exploring the city and a great restaurant on site (along with many other amenities).

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Orebro hotels!

Day 4 – Gothenburg

On the southwest coast of Sweden, you’ll find Gothenburg , Sweden’s second-largest city after Stockholm.

After enjoying a day in the city of Orebro, you’ll head about three hours away to Gothenburg on day 4. If you’re driving, consider making a detour to visit the charming town of Kalmar on the Baltic Sea and explore the historic center.

While Stockholm is easily the tourist center of Sweden, Gothenburg offers the best of Sweden without tourist crowds as well as tourist prices.

The city itself is full of Dutch-style canals (Gothenburg was mainly built by the Dutch), pure Scandinavian style, classic green boulevards, and a tremendously impressive food scene.

When in Gothenburg, I recommend checking out the 17th-century Domkyrkan (Gothenburg’s Cathedral), the hip and characteristic Haga neighborhood for lunch, and Slottsskogen, the city’s main park.

Gothenburg is full of a mix of sustainable and classically elegant architecture, and even just wandering around the city is a marvel in itself. If you’re looking to try a wide array of foods, head to the Saluhallen Food Hall to enjoy a tasty bite while marvelling at the architecture of the 1800s building. 

Gothenburg Cathedral

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

Hotel Royal – This hotel in the centre of Gothenburg is a great option for mid-range travelers. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a fantastic, central location and they also offer a wonderful breakfast each morning.

Hotel Pigalle – If you’re looking for a luxury escape in Gothenburg then you are sure to love this elegant hotel. There are a range of wonderful rooms to choose from, an excellent location for exploring the city and amenities like room service and more available for guests.

Slottskogens Hostel – Those visiting Gothenburg on a budget (or simply looking for a lively social atmosphere) will love this centrally-located hostel. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also have good common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Gothenburg hotels!

Day 5 – Southern Gothenburg Archipelago

The city of Gothenburg is in a unique location with 20 islands spanning Sweden’s western coast making up the Gothenburg Archipelago. The Gothenburg Archipelago consists of two parts; the northern archipelago, and the southern archipelago.

While both parts are worth the visit, the southern archipelago is better connected to the city and easier to access on a day trip.

Gothenburg’s Archipelago islands are one of the prime spots for Swedish local’s summer getaways and visiting one or two of the archipelago islands is the perfect way to experience what local life is like for Swedes spent by the sea, on the beach and under the sun.

The southern archipelago can easily be reached by Gothenburg’s public transport system in around 30 minutes and due to all of the archipelago islands being car-free, cars aren’t allowed on ferries so keep this in mind if you’re hiring a car during your trip.

Styrso Island is the main hub of the southern islands and is a great spot to head to during your day trip, you’ll find numerous places to swim as well as airy and pleasant cafes/restaurants throughout the island.

If you’re spending 5 days, today will conclude your Sweden travel itinerary. The best options are to continue onward by train if you’d like to see other destinations or make your way to Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport or Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport for your return flight.

From Gothenburg, there are numerous direct train services to each city, and directly to Copenhagen Airport.

Southern Gothenburg Archipelago

Day 6 – Malmo

For those continuing to enjoy Sweden in 7 days, days 6 and 7 of this itinerary will bring you to the city of Malmo. The city of Malmo dates back to the 13th century and is the third largest city in Sweden located about a 3-hour drive or train ride away from Gothenburg.

Malmo is located in a unique location, on the southern tip of Sweden and just 30 minutes away from Copenhagen, Denmark across the Oresund Strait. The city of Malmo is a unique mix of urban industrial architecture, classic medieval architecture, and sustainable futuristic architecture all creating the center of the city.

Make a point to spend time at the 15th-century Malmo castle (the oldest surviving Renaissance castle in Sweden), stroll down the Sodergatan and maybe even visit the most unique museum you’ll come across, the Disgusting Food Museum . 

Malmo Old Town

Where to Stay in Malmo

Mayfair Hotel Tunneln – This small hotel is located within a stone’s throw from Malmo’s train station and is the perfect base for exploring the city. They have many comfortable rooms to choose from and other amenities including an on-site bar and restaurant for guests to enjoy.

The More Hotel Mazetti – If you’d like to have your own flat in Malmo, then this aparthotel is an excellent option. Centrally located, this combines the convenience of having your own apartment with all of the amenities of a hotel. There are a number of fully-furnished and stylish flats to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Malmo hotels!

Day 7 – Lund

While Malmo is an engaging city to visit in its own right, the city itself is quite small, so this leaves you with the perfect day trip opportunity to the university city of Lund.

Lund is a charming, cobblestoned medieval town known for having one of the best universities in the world and is just a short 15-minute train ride from Malmo Central Station. The city center is quite small but large enough to make a day/half-day trip out of by stepping back in time through the city’s quaint and studious old town.

Lund has an incredibly relaxed atmosphere and this itself makes one of Sweden’s oldest cities a great getaway from city life in Malmo. The spectacular Romanesque Cathedral of Lund is one of the most sought-after attractions in all the Nordics , and religious or not, the cathedral is a truly peaceful splendor to walk through.

If you’re looking for a unique experience on your Lund day trip and last day in Sweden, I highly suggest heading to Kulturen, an outdoor open-air museum/experience with replicas from medieval times through the 20th century. 

If you’re trying to sort out the most convenient option for a return flight from Sweden, Malmo is located on train lines with direct connections to Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport in just under half an hour. If it’s not feasible to return from Copenhagen, you’ll also find convenient routes to Stockholm Airport as well as Gothenburg Airport. 

Lund, Sweden

Have More Time?

Perhaps you find yourself with more time beyond the 7 days of this Sweden travel itinerary. In that case, you’re in luck. Sweden is such a large country with plenty more interesting places and things to do, with varying unique options depending on the time of year.

If you’re a winter adventurer and are visiting Sweden in the winter, one of the best ways to enjoy Swedish winter is to head to the northern region of Swedish Lapland.

Witness the dancing, colorful aurora borealis in the arctic after a day of snowy activities and enjoy local Sami culture amongst locals and friendly animals. You can fly into the northern town of Kiruna and also opt to visit the incredible Abisko National Park.

If you’re visiting Sweden in the summer and would like to extend your trip with a unique location, the island of Gotland is a UNESCO Heritage Site located off the east coast of the Swedish mainland and the home of Pippi Longstocking.

Spend time in the city of Visby while wandering through its enchanting streets and corners of this fairytale Swedish island, a magical place without a hoard of tourists. 

You could also opt to spend a few more days in Stockholm and experience the sites and places close to the city.

Visby

There are plenty of reasons that Sweden is such a joyful destination that visitors long for and experience when they visit. The country itself is massive, offering a variety of adventures and experiences, the people are generous and kind, it’s one of the most forward-sustainable countries today and the towns bring you back to your childhood fairytale dreams.

After spending one week in Sweden, you’ll likely find yourself looking to come back soon to explore even deeper corners of this especially peaceful haven of a country.

Are you planning a trip to Sweden? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Yes am planning a trip to Sweden sometime in December and will likely spend my Christmas over there. That will be my first time in Sweden so I would really want to have a swell time while am there.

Greatly helpful article for us who are planning a week long self-driving trip to Sweden in Sep. we will pretty much follow your itineraries, and try to see as many places as possible. We’ve been in Stockholm for a couple times but have not seen anywhere else in Sweden, so we’re excited about the trip!

Thanks so much for this itinerary. We love all of it and will avoid Gothenburg as we will see it as part of our biking trip on the west coast a week later. Is the island of Oland worth visiting as well as Gotland.

Appreciate your input. Have you also done an itinerary for Denmark?

I’m happy that you found this helpful! You can find our Denmark itinerary here 🙂

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Sweden vacations 2024 & 2025

Sweden offers you a chance to immerse yourself in the essence of Scandinavia. You’ll find the relaxed waterfront cafés of Malmö in the south and the vast boreal forests of Lapland in the north, with stylish Stockholm and hip Gothenburg between. Our specialists have explored from the snow-dazzled depths of the Arctic Circle to the sunny shores of Stockholm’s archipelago, and can help you discover the aspects of the country that interest you. On a tailor-made vacation to Sweden with Audley, you’ll see the scenic highlights — and much more — your way.

We’ll arrange a food walking tour so you can sample fresh herring and the richest, most luxurious hot chocolate in Stockholm . You can spend time mingling with reindeer herds and the Sámi who depend on them in the Arctic. And, you might follow in the footsteps of King Erik the Victorious in the oldest town in Sweden, or learn more about the ultra-modern Øresund Bridge connecting Malmö to Copenhagen.

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Suggested tours for Sweden

These tours give you a starting point for what your vacation to Sweden could entail. Treat them as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you.

Northern lights above the Lule River

Swedish winter wonderland

7 days from $7,935pp

Stockholm islands from above

Family Denmark & Sweden

10 days from $6,120pp

Reindeer grazing the pastures of Swedish Lapland

Grand tour of Scandinavia

15 days from $11,785pp

Ariel view of Stockholm

Capital cities of Scandinavia

9 days from $6,195pp

Nærøyfjord

Active Scandinavia

9 days from $8,840pp

Fishing village in Gothenburg archipelago

Southern Sweden & Copenhagen

8 days from $4,650pp

Canal in central Gothenburg

Highlights of Swedish summer

13 days from $8,320pp

Suggested activities for Sweden

Whatever your interests, our specialists will build activities into your trip that connect to how you want to experience Sweden.

Dinner under the northern lights

Ice dining under the northern lights

You can explore a different side of the Lapland wilderness with a private meal on a frozen lake. Sit on reindeer hides under a traditional Sámi tent and enjoy a three-course meal as you watch the dark skies for the aurora borealis.

Stockholm archipelago

Archipelago sailing adventure from Vaxholm

Sail aboard a yacht to see some of the 30,000 islands that form Stockholm’s archipelago. Your captain will tailor the route to your interests, whether you want to focus on wildlife or local culture, with a traditional Swedish lunch served on board.

Uppsala cathedral

Sigtuna and Uppsala day trip

Enjoy a day filled with history as you explore two important Swedish towns, Sigtuna and Uppsala, with a private guide. The tour is tailored to your interests, but you might see cathedrals, runestones, traditional wooden houses and medieval ruins.

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Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Sweden, including information about climate, events and festivals.

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Useful information for planning your vacation in Sweden

The official language of Sweden is Swedish, which has several regional dialects. In the north, a number of Indigenous Sámi languages are spoken by around half of the Swedish Sámi population. Swedes are generally fluent English speakers and you’re not likely to encounter any issues being understood.

The currency of Sweden is the krona (kr or SEK). You’ll find ATMs in all cities and towns, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases.

In Sweden, a discretionary service charge is nearly always added to the bill, and an additional tip is not expected. If a service charge is not added, then rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is perfectly acceptable, but not expected. Drivers and guides will also appreciate a tip. Your specialist can advise on appropriate amounts closer to your travel dates.

Sweden may be known for its traditional meatballs, pickled herring, and cinnamon buns, but a modern focus on local, seasonal, and organic produce have made it a star of the Nordic culinary scene. You’ll find a host of Michelin-starred restaurants in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, while coastal regions are known for their wild salmon, herring, and trout. Often served as part of a smorgasbord, a selection of open sandwiches served buffet-style, they may be accompanied by rye breads, foraged vegetables, and lingonberry jam.

Perhaps the most essential Swedish culinary tradition is fika. Translated as 'coffee and a cake', fika is an essential part of Swedish culture. What you eat or drink is largely irrelevant — more important is the companionship and taking time to slow down to connect.

Craft brewing has also become popular in Sweden in recent years, as has viticulture, particularly in the southern states near Malmö.

For the latest travel advice for Sweden, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the State Department website .

Sweden’s historic cities, thousands of islands, and Arctic landscape offer a host of experiences from sailing and dog-sledding to fine food and world-renowned museums. You could get an insight into the neo-Nordic culinary scene on a food-themed walking tour , visit castles, palaces, and runestones on a trip to Sigtuna and Uppsala , or sail around archipelagos  to see fishing villages, summer houses, and seabirds.

In the north, you could spend a day with the Indigenous Sámi  to learn about their way of life, their reindeer herds, and how to lasso like a local. You could hike the northern forests under the midnight sun, or kayak on the Lule River  to get into the Arctic wilderness.

In winter, Sweden offers a whole different set of experiences from dog sledding and winter sports to the chance to stay in an ice hotel or watch the northern lights ripple across the night sky.

In style-conscious Sweden you can stay in cutting-edge concept hotels, historic buildings with contemporary interiors, boutique guesthouses, and classically elegant urban hideaways. For example, you could stay in a stylish Art Nouveau boutique hotel  set in a former girls’ school, enjoy the charm of Gothenburg’s historic post office , now a sleek urban hotel, or opt for a futuristic treehouse  in the forests of Lapland. For more ideas, browse our collection of places to stay in Sweden .

Sweden is a large country, but most visitors choose to visit Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, and Lapland. In stylish Stockholm , you’ll find a cosmopolitan capital where cobbled lanes are flanked by brightly painted 17th- and 18th-century buildings but also avant-garde architecture, world-class museums, and a cutting-edge restaurant scene.

Hip Gothenburg ’s large student population gives it a lively energy and it has a thriving coffeehouse culture as well as a vast collection of art at the Konstmuseum, which covers everything from the Scandinavian masters to the French impressionists, and contemporary photography. Gothenburg is also the gateway to the Bohuslän archipelago and its 8,000 islands.

Malmö also has a well-preserved old town thick with Dutch-Renaissance-style gabled townhouses while the redeveloped waterfront is home to the towering Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s highest building. In the boreal forests of Lapland  you can get an insight into Sámi culture or experience the midnight sun.

It takes around eight hours to fly from the East Coast of the US to Sweden, and around 12 and a half hours from the West Coast.

The time zone in Sweden is UTC+1 hour. Daylight Savings Time is observed from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

The best way to get around in Sweden is by road, rail, and air. Sweden is a large country with many islands, and you might need to combine road trips with rail journeys or internal flights to cover larger distances, and then take boat trips or cruises along the coast to see the islands. If you’d prefer not to drive yourself, we can also arrange for a private vehicle with a driver-guide to take you between destinations.

US citizens don’t need a visa to travel to Sweden. However, any time spent in Sweden is counted towards your 90-day limit for travel in the Schengen area.

Your doctor is best placed to provide you with immunization advice for Sweden, but you should also ensure you’re up to date with routine vaccinations at home. You can also check the recommended vaccinations by visiting the  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website .

Check that your passport will be valid for a minimum of three months beyond your date of departure from Sweden and has at least two blank pages. 

Sweden in pictures

Northern lights over the forest, Kiruna

Our expert guides to traveling in Sweden

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Sweden. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Sweden at its best.

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  • 3 Other destinations
  • 4.1 History
  • 4.2 The year in Sweden
  • 4.3 Tourist information
  • 6.1 Entry requirements
  • 6.2 By plane
  • 6.3 By train
  • 6.6.1 Belgium
  • 6.6.2 Denmark
  • 6.6.3 Estonia
  • 6.6.4 Finland
  • 6.6.5 Latvia
  • 6.6.6 Lithuania
  • 6.6.7 Germany
  • 6.6.8 Norway
  • 6.6.9 Poland
  • 6.6.10 Russia
  • 7.1 By plane
  • 7.2 By train
  • 7.3.1 City buses
  • 7.4.1 Scenic routes
  • 7.5 By ferry
  • 7.6 By taxi
  • 7.7 By thumb
  • 7.8 By bike
  • 7.9 On foot
  • 8.1 Palaces
  • 8.2 Industrial heritage
  • 8.3 Folk culture
  • 8.4 Protected areas
  • 9.2 City life
  • 10.1.1 Card
  • 10.1.2 ATMs
  • 10.2 Tipping
  • 10.5 Shopping
  • 12.1 Coffee
  • 12.2 Alcoholic beverages
  • 12.3 Bars and nightclubs
  • 13.1 Camping
  • 13.2 Hostels
  • 13.3 Hotels
  • 13.4 Vacation homes
  • 13.5 Rental homes and hospitality exchange
  • 16.1 In case of emergency
  • 16.2 Predators
  • 16.3 Animal collisions
  • 19.2 Do not bring
  • 19.3 Electricity and utilities
  • 19.4 Toilets
  • 20.2 Telephone and Internet

Sweden ( Swedish : Sverige ) is the largest of the Nordic countries by area and population. Visitors can experience deep forests and many lakes, the heritage from the Viking Age and the 17th-century Swedish Empire , the glamour of the Nobel Prize , and the country's successful pop music scene . Sweden has 270,000 islands with many open to visit through the right to roam .

Regions [ edit ]

Map

The three traditional lands of Sweden, Götaland , Svealand and Norrland , are further divided into 25 provinces ( landskap ), which largely define Swedish people's cultural identity.

The provinces mostly coincide with the 21 counties ( län ), the mid-level political entities. The 290 municipalities ( kommun ), are the bottom-level political entities, typically consisting of a town or a city, and the surrounding countryside, including small villages. Some municipalities used to hold city ( stad ) privileges, and still style themselves as such, though there is no legal distinction. Most municipalities have their own visitor centre.

Cities [ edit ]

  • 59.329444 18.068611 1 Stockholm is Sweden's capital and largest city, spread out over several islands.
  • 57.7 11.966667 2 Gothenburg (Swedish: Göteborg ) is Sweden's largest port and industrial centre, second in population.
  • 56.160833 15.586111 3 Karlskrona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , as the base for Sweden's navy since the 17th century.
  • 58.415833 15.625278 4 Linköping has a large university, and is the birthplace of Sweden's aviation industry.
  • 55.7 13.2 5 Lund is a lively pretty university city with a Viking Age heritage.
  • 55.605833 13.035833 6 Malmö , with a quarter million inhabitants, is connected to the Danish capital Copenhagen by the Öresund Bridge.
  • 63.825 20.263889 7 Umeå is the largest city in Norrland, known for its silver birches and university.
  • 59.858056 17.644722 8 Uppsala , once the centre of Viking era Sweden, is home to the largest cathedral and oldest university in the Nordic countries.
  • 57.634722 18.299167 9 Visby is the only city on the Gotland island, a Hanseatic League centre of commerce with an impressive city wall.

Other destinations [ edit ]

  • 59.8 15.8 1 Bergslagen is the traditional heartland of Swedish metallurgy and mining.
  • 59.283333 17.8 2 Ekerö is a freshwater archipelago with the Royal family's residence Drottningholm, and Viking Age settlement Birka.
  • 62.94 18.19 3 High Coast (Swedish: Höga kusten ) is the most scenic area along the Norrland coast.
  • 67.85 20.216667 4 Kiruna Municipality ( Sami : Giron ) at Sweden's northernmost edge is known for a large mine, a space flight centre, the Jukkasjärvi ice hotel and Abisko national park.
  • 67.33333 17.58333 5 Laponia is Western Europe's largest wilderness, in the Arctic.
  • 60.85 14.8 6 Siljansbygden is an archetype of Swedish folk culture in central Dalarna .
  • 59.38778 18.73581 7 Stockholm archipelago (Swedish: Stockholms skärgård ) consists of islands all shapes and sizes.
  • 63.4 13.083333 8 Åre is one of Sweden's largest ski resorts, with 44 lifts.
  • 56.733333 16.666667 9 Öland is Sweden's second largest island, with long beaches.

Understand [ edit ]

The "Nordic model" of economics and social policy was largely developed by Swedish social democrats and liberals during the early 20th century. The foundation is a strong welfare state, combined with market economics. Swedish society, as it has become through this policy, is often described as "folkhemmet", comparing solidarity in the society with that in a family:

History [ edit ]

In ancient times, Sweden was inhabited by the Suiones ( svear ) in Svealand and the Geats ( götar ) in Götaland. Some of these participated in Viking expeditions (see Vikings and the Old Norse ), and are said to have founded the first kingdoms in Russia . Written sources from the Viking Age are few and short.

Around AD 1000, Christianity replaced Norse paganism, Suiones and Geats united under one king (probably Olof Skötkonung), and the first cities were founded; among them Sigtuna , Uppsala and Skara . With Christianity came written chronicles and stone architecture, which have provided the afterworld with better historical detail than earlier remnants. Swedish kings Christianized and annexed Finland . During the 14th and 15th century, Sweden was a subject of the Kalmar Union with Norway and Denmark. Gustav Vasa liberated Sweden from Danish rule, was elected king in 1523, and is regarded the founder of modern Sweden. He also reformed the church to Lutheran-Protestant. Today, the monarch is still constitutionally required to be a Lutheran, though contemporary Swedish society is largely secular, with only a minority of Swedes going to church regularly.

During the 17th century Sweden rose as a Great Power , through several successful wars (such as the Thirty Years' War ), where kings such as Gustavus Adolphus and Charles X annexed Scania , Halland and Bohuslän from Denmark , as well as temporary possessions in the Baltic countries and northern Germany . In the early 18th century, an alliance of Denmark, Poland and the Russian Empire defeated Swedish king Charles XII, marking the end of the Swedish Empire. In 1809, Sweden was again defeated by Russia, which annexed Finland. The country has been at peace since 1814; the country has a high peace profile, with internationally renowned names such as Raoul Wallenberg, Dag Hammarskjöld, Olof Palme and Hans Blix. Sweden is a monarchy by constitution, but King Carl XVI Gustaf has no executive power.

Sweden is a developed post-industrial society with an advanced welfare state. The standard of living and life expectancy rank among the highest in the world. Sweden joined the European Union in 1995, but decided by a referendum in 2003 not to commit to the European Monetary Union and the euro currency. Sweden has a strong tradition of being an open, yet discreet country. Citizens sometimes appear to be quite reserved at first, but once they get to know who they are dealing with, they'll be as warm and friendly as you'd wish. Privacy is regarded as a key item and many visitors, for example mega-stars in various lines of trade, have many times realized that they mostly can walk the streets of the cities virtually undisturbed.

Sweden houses the Nobel Prize committee for all the prizes except the peace prize, which is hosted in Oslo, a memento of the Swedish-Norwegian union that was dissolved in 1905.

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sweden abandoned its longstanding policy of neutrality and joined NATO in 2024.

The year in Sweden [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

The weather in Sweden is typically cool or cold from October to April, but in the summer (late May to early September) temperatures lie around 20 °C. If you like snow, go to Norrland or Dalarna in January to April. In Sweden there are no earthquakes or volcanoes to be worried about. There are seasonal storms though, mostly in the early spring and in the autumn. Occasional heavy rainfall makes the many rivers swell and in some cases cause flooding. During dry summers counties may issue warnings or even bans on the use of open fire.

Daylight varies greatly during the year. In Stockholm, the sun sets at 15:00 in December. In June and July, however, summer nights exist only in the form of prolonged twilight. North of the Arctic Circle one can experience the midnight sun around Midsummer and the Arctic night in midwinter.

The major holidays are Easter ( påsk ), National Day of Sweden or Swedish Flag Day ( nationaldagen or svenska flaggans dag , June 6), Midsummer ( midsommar , celebrated from the eve of the Friday between June 19–25), Christmas ( jul , Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day are all considered holidays). Most celebration happens on the day before the holiday proper; Midsummer's Eve, Christmas Eve etc. Expect everything to be closed in the countryside during the National Day and Midsummer.

There are three periods of the year when Swedes traditionally have their vacations. To avoid fully booked venues, heavy traffic and crowded tourist resorts in the summer, you should either book in time or stay clear of July and the first two weeks of August. These six weeks are weather-wise usually the most enjoyable for a summer vacation in all of Sweden. Winter vacation ( sportlov ) is usually a week in February or March depending on when kids have time off from school. This time of year is high season for tourism in all of Lappland, Dalarna and some winter resorts in Southern Sweden. Autumn vacation ( höstlov ) is a week around the end of October and the beginning of November. This period has become a time of reading and reflection, so people tend to stay at home getting used to the dark winter evenings.

Tourist information [ edit ]

  • Visit Sweden . ( updated Jan 2024 )

Talk [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Swedish ( Svenska ) is the national language of Sweden. It is closely related to Danish and Norwegian , and mutually intelligible with those languages to a certain degree — especially in written form. While Finnish (the largest minority language) as well as the less spoken Sami , Meänkeäli, Yiddish and Romani languages are officially recognized, practically everyone born in Sweden speaks Swedish. Regardless of what your native tongue is, Swedes appreciate an attempt to speak Swedish, and beginning conversations in Swedish, no matter how rudimentary your level is, will help to ingratiate you to locals.

English is widely spoken in Sweden, and most younger adults have near native proficiency.

Hej ( hey ) is the massively dominant greeting in Sweden, useful on kings and bums alike. You can even say it when you leave. The Swedes most often do not say "please" ( snälla say SNELL-la), instead they are generous with the word tack ( tack ), meaning "thanks". If you need to get someone's attention, whether it's a waiter or you need to pass someone one in a crowded situation, a simple " ursäkta " (say "OR-sek-ta") ("excuse me") will do the trick. You will find yourself pressed to overuse it, and you sometimes see people almost chanting it as a mantra when trying to exit a crowded place like a bus or train.

Some things get English names that do not correspond to the original English word. Some examples are light which is used for diet products, and freestyle which means "walkman". Sweden uses the metric system and in the context of distance, the common expression mil , "mile", is 10 km, not an English statute mile. Because of the distances involved, mil is used in spoken language even though road signs all use kilometres.

Foreign television programmes and films are almost always shown in their original language with Swedish subtitles, with only children's programmes dubbed into Swedish.

Get in [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Entry requirements [ edit ]

Sweden is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

  • There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
  • There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
  • A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

In spite of this there are temporary border controls from Denmark where you need a passport or EU/EEA ID card.

Citizens of EU/EEA countries are permitted to work in Sweden without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90-day visa-free stay. Nordic citizens do not need any permission even for longer stays, working or not. The ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries.

Visitors coming in from Norway and Finland can enter Sweden without regulations, in a land vehicle, on foot, or by boat, as long as they do not carry goods to declare. The ferries from Finland may however want to check your ID (which should state your nationality).

Restricted goods include but are not limited to cash [dead link] in the equivalence of €10,000 and more, pets [dead link] , firearms, as well as wholesale commodities. These must be declared at a toll station. The Swedish Customs ( Tull ) is an law enforcement agency, that is entitled to arrest people using due force.

By plane [ edit ]

For arrival and departure times, and for lots of other information about flights and airports in Sweden, visit Luftfartsverket - Swedish Airports and Air Navigation Services

Major airports:

  • Stockholm Arlanda ( ARN  IATA ) is by far the country's largest airport, serving most major international and domestic airlines. See Sigtuna for airport amenities, and Stockholm for information on transfer between the airport and central Stockholm.
  • Göteborg Landvetter [dead link] ( GOT  IATA ) - serves several international airlines and provides convenient bus transfer (about 20 minutes) to central Gothenburg .
  • Copenhagen Airport ( CPH  IATA ) - Located in Denmark on an island between Copenhagen and Malmö , this is Scandinavia's largest air hub, served by most major airlines. Direct rail line from the airport to southern Sweden allows it to serve most of the region conveniently.
  • Oslo Airport, Gardermoen ( OSL  IATA ) in Norway can be considered for destinations in western Sweden.

Smaller airports:

  • Stockholm Skavsta ( NYO  IATA ) is mainly served by budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizzair , with many connections to Europe, especially the Balkans . In Nyköping , quite a distance (about 100 km) from Stockholm.
  • Stockholm Bromma ( BMA  IATA ), 6 kilometres west of central Stockholm, mainly for short-range flights.
  • Stockholm Västerås [dead link] ( VST  IATA ) - international flights to/from Copenhagen and London. Also about 100 km from Stockholm.
  • Malmö-Sturup ( MMX  IATA )- serves domestic flights and low fares flights. It's about 30 km from Malmö .
  • Jönköping Airport [dead link] ( JKG  IATA ) connects to Stockholm, Visby, Frankfurt and other destinations in south of Europe.

Most airports can be reached by Flygbussarna - Airport coaches for tickets around 70 to 100 kr. Copenhagen Airport is best reached by train. See Skånetrafiken for schedules.

By train [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

You can reach Sweden by train from neighbouring countries, and some more distant ones:

  • Denmark : Trains depart Copenhagen and Copenhagen's airport for Malmö every 20 minutes, and cost only about 100 Swedish kronor ("Öresundståg / Øresundstog" regional trains). The train goes over the magnificent Öresund Bridge to get to Sweden in less than 30 minutes. Furthermore direct trains ( SJ ) leave from Copenhagen to Stockholm . Tickets are purchased in machines, or for SJ also on the web. Danish Rejsekort can also be used if your destination is one of the three stops in Malmö. Be aware that the two operators do not recognize each others tickets. The Helsingør - Helsingborg connection, known as one of the busiest ferry routes in Europe, might also be used (local trains from Copenhagen, change to ship).
  • Finland : The Torneå/Muonionjoki river valley has seasonal train service on the Finnish side (up to Kolari , by Pajala ). From the station in Tornio the station in Haparanda is within easy reach. There are no direct train connections, as Finland and Sweden use different rail gauges. Haparanda has some trains, but you can also take the bus to Luleå or Boden , with night train connection to Stockholm. Interrail tickets are valid on that bus, otherwise tickets are purchased from the driver. Off season you can use the year-round daily connections to Kemi , with bus to Tornio.
  • Norway : Main connections between Oslo and Stockholm and Gothenburg as well as connections on the lines Trondheim – Åre – Östersund and Narvik – Kiruna – Boden – Stockholm .
  • Germany : Direct overnight trains run daily from Berlin to Stockholm via Hamburg and Malmö , operated by SJ, along with a competing service operated by Snälltåget . The latter service is extended to Dresden on select dates, but does not run in the winter. There are also several trains per day from Hamburg to Copenhagen , just across the Öresund strait from Malmö.
  • Austria : Weekly overnight trains are offered winter and summer from Austrian ski resorts via Hamburg and Munich to Malmö, operated by Snälltåget.
  • Portugal : Direct overnight trains from Lisbon to Malmö via France and Germany, a new service operated by Snälltåget.

By bus [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

From western and central Europe via Copenhagen by Flixbus or Nettbuss .

Buses from and to the Western Balkans are also operated by Toptourist [dead link] . Call + 46 (0 ) 42 18 29 84 for more information.

There are buses from Tornio in Finland, and, e.g., from Oslo , Bodø and Mo i Rana in Norway.

By car [ edit ]

From Norway and northern Finland there are many border crossings. Norway is not part of EU, so visit customs. Nearly all the ferries to Sweden take cars.

From Germany, a car ferry is needed when going directly to Sweden or via the Jutland peninsula in Denmark. See how to get in by boat.

The exception to the rule is to take the Great Belt Bridge in combination with the Öresund Bridge as a ferry-free drive via Denmark to Sweden (Autobahn 7 to the Danish border — Motorway E45 to Kolding — Motorway E20 to Malmö , Sweden). This is however a 170-km detour, and the bridges have heavy tolls. Going via the Danish isles to Sweden is also possible (Autobahn 1 to Puttgarden — Scandlines car ferry to Rødby — Motorway E47 to Helsingør — Scandlines car ferry to Helsingborg , Sweden) or a combination of the two routes switching from E20 to E47 or vice versa on Zealand .

Before you decide on the route, do check out the prices on the ferries going directly from Germany to Sweden, since they can be much cheaper.

By boat [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Before the Öresund Bridge was opened in July 2000, the Scandinavian peninsula could only be reached by boat, unless going very far north. Still, boat traffic is very important to Sweden.

Belgium [ edit ]

  • From Ghent to Gothenburg by DFDS Torline ( cargo line with limited passenger capacity)

Denmark [ edit ]

  • From Grenå to Halmstad by Stena Line .
  • From Frederikshavn to Gothenburg by Stena Line.
  • From Helsingør to Helsingborg by Scandlines and Sundsbusserne . The latter does not take motorised vehicles.

Estonia [ edit ]

  • From Tallinn to Stockholm (via Helsinki ) by Viking Line .
  • From Tallinn to Stockholm (direct connection) by Tallink .

Finland [ edit ]

  • From Helsinki to Stockholm (via Åland ) by Tallink Silja and Viking Line .
  • From Naantali to Kapellskär by Finnlines .
  • From Turku to Stockholm (via Åland ) by Tallink Silja and Viking Line.
  • From Vaasa to Umeå by Wasaline .

Latvia [ edit ]

  • From Riga to Stockholm by Tallink (temporarily suspended).
  • From Ventspils to Nynäshamn by Stena Line .

Lithuania [ edit ]

  • From Klaipėda to Karlshamn by DFDS Seaways .
  • From Klaipėda to Karlshamn and Trelleborg by TT-Line .

Germany [ edit ]

  • From Travemünde to Trelleborg by TT-Line .
  • From Travemünde to Malmö by Finnlines .
  • From Kiel to Gothenburg by Stena Line.
  • From Rostock to Trelleborg by Scandlines and TT-Line.
  • From Sassnitz to Trelleborg by FRS Baltic (April to October).
  • From Puttgarden to Rødby in Denmark by Scandlines. Continue via the Helsingør to Helsingborg ferry, or the bridge to Malmö.
  • From Rostock to Gedser in Denmark by Scandlines. Continue via the Helsingør to Helsingborg ferry, or the bridge to Malmö.

Norway [ edit ]

  • From Sandefjord to Strömstad by Color Line

Poland [ edit ]

  • From Gdańsk to Nynäshamn by Polferries .
  • From Gdańsk to Visby by Polferries.
  • From Gdynia to Karlskrona by Stena Line [dead link] .
  • From Świnoujście to Ystad by Polferries.

Russia [ edit ]

  • From Saint Petersburg to Stockholm by St. Peter Line [dead link] .

Get around [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

The ancient right to access ( allemansrätten ) grants everybody a right to move freely on most land on foot, swimming, by horse, by ski, by bicycle or by boat, even on privately owned property – but not through private yards. With the right comes an obligation to respect the privacy of people and the integrity of nature. It is important to understand the limitations.

Domestic flights are mainly for travellers with more money than time, and for the vast distances of Norrland . There are low-price tickets, but they must be bought well in advance.

The most important domestic airlines:

  • SAS - the international airline, and flag carrier, has many domestic routes as well.
  • Norwegian - several domestic and international destinations.
  • BRA [formerly dead link] - several regional flights to most domestic airports.
  • Amapola - several domestic routes and also flights to Norway .

Sweden has an extensive railway network. Most long-range lines are operated by the government-owned company SJ . To buy a railway ticket, or to obtain information, call +46 771 75 75 75 , check their website, or download their mobile app. MTR Express also operates several trains between Gothenburg and Stockholm. Because point-to-point tickets are quite expensive, for more train journeys, a Sweden InterRail [dead link] (for European citizens) or Eurail [dead link] (for non-European citizens) pass might be useful. Purchasing single journey tickets online in advance can also help save money, although the cheapest tickets often come with more restrictions.

The national public transport carriers operate an alliance service called Resplus for multiple-leg travel. See Resrobot for an interactive journey planner.

Regional public transport typically has a carrier per county. For instance, when travelling regionally in the province of Scania ( Skåne in Swedish), one should refer to Skånetrafiken . For travelling in the region of Mälardalen (the "Lake Mälaren Valley"), you can check all train and bus operators at Trafik i Mälardalen . This regional traffic cooperation includes many of Sweden's major cities, such as Stockholm , Uppsala , Västerås , Linköping , Norrköping , Örebro and Eskilstuna .

Flixbus and Nettbuss runs a number of bus lines in the southern third of the country, Götaland and Svealand. They tend to cost less than going by train, if you can't take advantage of SJ's youth discounts. Y-buss [formerly dead link] , tapanis , and Härjedalingen operate between Stockholm and Norrland.

Flixbus also operates from Stockholm and Göteborg to Oslo. At the county or län level, buses are a good method for travelling short distances from town to town, as they are more frequent and cheaper than trains. It is best to check with the local transportation authority for routes and schedules.

  • Bus4You is a high-comfort carrier.

City buses [ edit ]

City buses are operated by the counties' public-transport companies.

If you plan to use city buses, check out the local arrangements for how to obtain tickets. In many Swedish cities it is not possible to buy tickets for the city buses at the bus. In this case neither cash nor bank or credit cards are accepted. Instead you need an electronic bus card, a special card for each region, that sometimes also has to be filled with a minimum amount of money, typically 100 kr. This bus card can sometimes be obtained only at dedicated ticket offices, not at the bus, but can often be filled with money for travel at local shops or refill machines that are found at public places.

On long distance buses, passengers can normally buy tickets from the driver.

sweden travel brochure

Svealand and Götaland can be crossed by car within a day, but distances in Norrland tend to be larger, and settlements can be tens of kilometres apart. When available, air or rail travel are often faster. Travelling by night can be dangerous due to wild animals on the roads , and the cold nights during the winter. See E4 through Sweden and E6 through Sweden and Norway for two of the main highways. While traffic is less aggressive than in Denmark or Central Europe, traffic jams are common around Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Car crash rates in Sweden are among the lowest in Europe. Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory for everyone in the car. Driving tired is illegal and is treated the same way as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Animal collisions with moose, deer and boar are a major danger; these animals are commonly on the road, especially around dawn and dusk. The moose is a big and heavy animal (up to 700 kg and 2.1 m shoulder height) so a collision can be lethal.

Drunk driving is a serious crime, the laws are strictly enforced, and the punishments are harsh by international standards. The legal limit of 0.02% is lower than in most other western countries and as little as one beer may put you over the limit . Violations carry a hefty fine and/or a prison sentence of up to 6 months, while serious violations of 0.1% and higher carry a guaranteed prison sentence of up to 2 years. Be sure to either bring a designated driver, take a taxi or make use of public transport if you plan on drinking. The Stockholm port at Frihamnen has alcogates : an automated breathalyzer which reports drunk drivers to police.

Scenic routes [ edit ]

Sweden has a small but growing network of designated scenic routes, they are often minor roads with limited traffic and speeds not exceeding 80 km/h.

By ferry [ edit ]

Road ferries (ferries that constitute part of public roads) are yellow, run by Färjerederiet . An online map service showing all available road ferries and their daily schedule can be found on Trafikverket's website .

The Swedish archipelagoes have boat services provided by the local county transport authority, in Swedish called skärgårdstrafik .

  • Destination Gotland runs domestic ferry lines from Nynäshamn and Oskarshamn to Visby , Gotland.
  • Ölandsfärjan runs a domestic ferry line in the summer season (mid-June to mid-August) between Oskarshamn and Byxelkrok on Öland .
  • Ventrafiken runs a domestic ferry line between Landskrona and Ven in Scania.

By taxi [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Taxis are generally comfortable and, in the larger cities, easy to find. Check the price info on the rear window before entering, and do use the seat belt. If you are travelling with a toddler call in advance to get a cab with a proper child seat, or the driver may refuse you. Outside the bigger cities it makes sense to note the contact information of one or a few companies with decent pricing and enough presence in the city you are visiting.

  • TaxiKurir . Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities around Sweden. ( updated Aug 2020 )
  • Sverigetaxi . Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities around Sweden. ( updated Aug 2020 )
  • Cabonline . Smart phone app offers address based routing and calculates price according to them. Includes several cities. ( updated Feb 2021 )

By thumb [ edit ]

Sweden has a reputation for being a pretty difficult country to hitch in, though it's still quite possible to hitch-hike. Ordinary people are often reluctant to pick up strangers. Truck drivers are probably most likely to pick up hitch-hikers, so target them. Asking at gas stations works pretty well. Bus stops are common places to attract attention, position yourself before the actual bus stop so the vehicle can stop at the stop. This works best if the road is widened at the bus stop, allowing cars to pull off easily. Pedestrians are prohibited from accessing motorways.

By bike [ edit ]

Most Swedish cities have excellent bicycle paths, and renting a bike can be a quick and healthy method of getting around locally. Some cities have bikes for borrowing. Inter-city cycling is a good option for the experienced cyclist. While cycling is not allowed on motorways, most of them have a parallel old road without the heavy traffic.

Note that most long-distance trains don't take bikes. A foldable bike or combining regional trains may be viable although cumbersome options.

On foot [ edit ]

Cars are by law required to stop at any unattended crosswalks (zebra stripes in the road without red-lights) to let pedestrians cross the road. But keep in mind that you are required to make eye contact with the driver so that they know that you are about to cross the street.

See [ edit ]

As modern as its society is, Sweden is a country full of seemingly untouched nature and ever-present history. The first stop for many visitors is historic and compact Stockholm , full of heritage, home to the Vasa Museum and gateway to the Stockholm Archipelago . There's the canals and cobblestoned streets of Gothenburg , with its famous botanical garden, or the modern architecture of Malmö . For more history, head to the port town of Visby , a recognized Unesco World Heritage Site, or the medieval town of Ystad , famous through the Kurt Wallander novels that are set here and for Ales stenar , one of the ancient iron-age burial monuments in the country.

Palaces [ edit ]

Sweden has more palaces and castles ( slott ) and manors ( herrgård ) than other Nordic countries. Eleven of them belong to the Swedish monarchy ; most of them are open to the public. Stockholm Palace ( Stockholm/Gamla Stan ), Rosendal ( Stockholm/Djurgården ), Haga , Gustav III:s pavilion and Ulriksdal ( Solna ), Drottningholm and Kina ( Ekerö ), Tullgarn ( Södertälje ) and Rosersberg ( Sigtuna ) are within greater Stockholm. Gripsholm ( Mariefred ) and Strömsholm ( Hallstahammar ) are further away. The farmland areas are full of noble and bourgeois manors from the 17th century and onwards; many of them are used as hotels today.

Industrial heritage [ edit ]

While the Bergslagen district, Roslagen and other parts of Sweden became world-leading in mining and metalworking during the 17th century, the full industrialization of Sweden lagged behind the rest of Europe until the 20th century, when Swedish product brands such as Volvo , Ericsson , SAAB , SKF , AGA , IKEA , Tetra Pak and Atlas Copco conquered the world. During the last decades, most of the Swedish workforce has moved on to high technology and the service sector, converting many of the mines, factories and waterways to museums. Among industrial heritage sites are Göta Kanal from the Baltic Sea to the Atlantic, the copper mine in Falun , and the Nobel Museum in Stockholm.

Folk culture [ edit ]

Swedish folk culture includes folk music and dance (see Nordic music ), folk costumes, folk art, handicraft ( slöjd , hemslöjd ) and traditional farming. Local identity used to be based on the socken (parish) and the province (landskap). With the 19th century industrialization and urbanization, folk culture had to be preserved, and today survives through different institutions. Most provinces have an open-air museum with buildings, workshops and sometimes livestock and wild animals on display; the oldest one being Skansen in Stockholm. Hembygdsförening is an organization for local folk culture, usually based on an old farm, hembygdsgård . Among traditional farming methods, the fäbod , a seasonally used livestock shed, can be found in particular in Dalarna, Värmland and Norrland. Folkets hus och parker is a cooperative for local community centres; bygdegård is a rural community centre.

Protected areas [ edit ]

Protected areas cover 15% percent in Sweden's total area of national territory. Most common in the country are nature reserves and national parks.

Do [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Nature [ edit ]

Sweden's landscape includes dense forests to crystal clear lakes, waterfalls and rolling mountains, with opportunities to see Eurasian wildlife .

In total, Sweden has 29 national parks . The stunning but rugged wilderness of Sarek National Park , called "Europe's last wilderness" by some, is a challenging but highly rewarding area to explore. It was the first of a list of 29 established national parks and is part of the vast and Unesco protected terrains of Laponia , together with the national parks Padjelanta , Stora Sjöfallet (with its snowy peaks) and the taiga and ravines of Muddus National Park . Set out to spot elk/moose, wolverines and more Swedish wildlife or visit in winter for a chance to see the magical Northern Lights . Kosterhavet [dead link] maritime park is the place to go for lobster or seal safaris.

During the summer Kungsleden in northern Sweden attracts lots of visitors who enjoy a solitary hike between cabins or camp sites in the beautiful mountains. The Swedish Right to access gives anyone the right to walk over other's land, as long as you do not destroy nor disturb it. This means that you can go sailing or canoeing and put up a camp on islands in the Stockholm Archipelago , you can go hiking and put up a camp almost wherever you want, however it is illegal to make a campfire on a rock surface. Sceneries of nature, less populated than most of Europe. Ice and snow during winter. The west coast has plenty of small towns like Marstrand , Skärhamn , Mollösund and Lysekil that are worth exploring with their distinct architecture and cuisine, best experienced during summer.

Some outdoor life opportunities are winter sport , hiking , canoeing , sailing , horse riding and berry- or mushroom-picking depending of season. The ultimate test of aerobic fitness is the Swedish Classic Circuit ; four annual races of cross-country skiing (Vasaloppet, from Sälen to Mora ), running ( Lidingöloppet ), cycling (Vätternrundan starting from Motala ) and swimming ( Vansbrosimningen ).

Boating in Sweden can be done on a sailing boat, a motor boat, or a canoe.

Diving in Sweden is challenging because of the cold waters. Still, the Baltic Sea is full of well-preserved shipwrecks.

City life [ edit ]

Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö have great nightlife and shopping opportunities, while far from the cheapest places in Europe.

Gambling in Sweden is offered by the state (Svenska Spel), and a few privileged organizations.

Casino Cosmopol is a state-owned company with a venue in Stockholm ( Norrmalm ). Horse racing is a pastime in many Swedish cities. The most widespread class is harness racing, trav , with race tracks in many towns. Bookmaking is operated through ATG with on-line agents at the tracks, and in most towns. Several bars and restaurants have gambling tables and slot machines.

Music [ edit ]

Swedish popular music is world-famous, with names such as ABBA , Roxette , Swedish House Mafia and others. Sweden hosts dozens of music festivals with international acts, as well as stars-to-be, most of them during summer. Sweden Rock Festival ( Sölvesborg ) and Way Out West ( Gothenburg ) to mention only two. There are also several festivals [dead link] for folk, classical and jazz music.

Live concerts, music galas, DJs and music shows organized during Christmas events.

Choir ( kör ) music is big in Sweden, with regular performances even in smaller towns, not least the weeks before Christmas.

Dansband (a type of dance orchestras) music is popular, and is performed live at social dancing venues such as dance pavilions (often in what is called a "folkpark"), community centres and some dance restaurants. While disco may be popular in cities, these venues provide a more traditional way to get together. Most dancing nights the music played suites the smooth Swedish swing dance bugg , which together with foxtrot and one-step is the dance most commonly danced there. Some nights there is gammeldans , when older ballroom dances are played and danced, such as waltz, schottische, polka, mazurka, perhaps snoa, and sometimes also foxtrot and tango. Some of the dansband have also these genres in their repertoire (sometimes with a modern touch), others don't. The culture at dance pavilions is generally a bit less formal than in Finland: there may be no well-established rules on asking people to dance or on how many dances to dance at a time with the same partner.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

The national currency is the Swedish krona (plural,: kronor ), denoted by the abbreviation " kr " (ISO code: SEK ). Swedes may call the currency "crowns" when speaking English. Don't confuse it with the Norwegian or Danish krone.

One krona equals 100 öre , but 1 krona is today the smallest coin. Ören remain in use only in electronic transactions; when payment is done in cash, prices are rounded to the nearest full krona.

Coins of Sweden are produced in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 kronor. Banknotes of Sweden are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 kronor.

Sweden is notorious for invalidating old money, so don't save any for future visits. Banknotes and coins older than 2017 are no longer valid, except for the latest type of the 10 kronor coin (year 1991 to 2009). Invalid banknotes can be redeemed only via the Swedish National Bank . You might be able to exchange old Swedish currency for a foreign one that you will need (such as euro) – the exchange bureau will then do the visit to the national bank. Counterfeit Swedish money is very rare, and you are very unlikely to receive already obsolete money.

Money exchange is best done at companies that have specialized in this, since many commercial banks are cashless on foreign currency. Forex has branches all over most of Sweden, but they may be expensive. X-change has branches in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. Tavex has branches in and around Stockholm.

Card [ edit ]

Sweden is one of the world's most cashless countries and a card-centric country . Businesses that don't accept cash, or where paying with cash is complicated, are common, and e.g. in Stockholm, getting rid of your cash may require some effort. Electronic payments with credit cards and debit cards ( kontokort , bankkort ) are very common, as is the Swedish app-based Swish. It is entirely possible to live your life in Sweden without ever seeing or using cash – and as foreigner you need cash mostly where Swedes would use Swish. Most stores, restaurants and bars accept all major credit cards. There are a lot of automated vending machines that only accept payment cards; even some museums and hotels are cashless or cash free ( kontantfri ), which means that only payment cards can be used. You might need an ID card or a passport when shopping with a credit card, though not in supermarkets and such where the PIN code is king. If you plan to use automated point-of-sale machines to checkout, you may need to know your card's PIN number (check with your bank on how to get a PIN for your card if this isn't the norm in your country). If you don't have a credit card, you can buy a Paygoo Mastercard gift card at any Pressbyrån or 7-Eleven outlet from 200 kr (+35 kr activation fee).

Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are accepted for credit card payments and debit card payments.

The domestic payment smartphone app Swish is commonly used, but it requires a Swedish bank account. If you travel through the countryside, some small vendors like cafés, gift shops, farm shops ( gårdsbutik ), and antiques shops offer only Swish or cash as payment options. To be prepared, you might want to withdraw a smaller amount of cash at an ATM with a credit card in advance, perhaps 200 kr.

ATMs [ edit ]

The most used Swedish word for automated teller machine is Bankomat , although this is a trademark of the Trade Bank Consortium, much like the term cash point in the United Kingdom, and therefore not used by several banks. A more generic word would be Uttagsautomat ; Uttag , Minuten and Kontanten are other trademarks that have become part of normal speech. Nearly all machines regardless of operator will accept the MasterCard, Maestro, Visa, Visa Electron and American Express. You can withdraw up to 10 000 kr per use. During a seven-day period you can withdraw a maximum of 20 000 kr.

You have three attempts to enter the correct PIN code. If you fail a third time, the machine retains the card and closing it. In order to facilitate the visually impaired have the keys on the machines equipped with Braille. You may have spoken guidance, press the TALK button. In some ATMs you can withdraw euros if you have a card issued by a Swedish bank. You may take up the maximum per use. You can make multiple withdrawals after the other but a maximum 20 000 kr per week.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping , known as dricks in Swedish, is not customary in Sweden, but sometimes a tip is left as a sign of appreciation for good service, usually by rounding up the bill but truly exceptional service may be rewarded with a tip of 5–10%. Tipping is strictly voluntary and should be given only as a token of real appreciation for the service. Be aware that the tips will most often be split between the waiters and the kitchen. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, any extra service (such as carrying bags) will be listed on the receipt according to rate.

Costs [ edit ]

Sweden is a rather expensive country to inhabit, though still somewhat cheaper than Norway and Denmark ; many Norwegians living near the border drive into Sweden to purchase groceries. Sundries like a 33 cl bottle of Coca-Cola cost about 10 kr, a beer in a bar will cost you around 45 kr, the average price of hotel accommodation is around 1300 kr, a room in a hostel varies between 150 and 350 kr, a public transport ticket in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö will set you back around 25 kr, one meal will cost you around 100 kr, 1 litre of petrol fuel costs about 18 kr, and a pack of 19 cigarettes will cost you 50 kr. If you are a bit careful about your expenses, a daily budget of around 1000 kr will be enough (2015 prices). House prices outside metropolitan areas are probably among the lowest in Western Europe, and discount stores such as Lidl , Netto and Willys offer a wide range of items to a low cost. Accommodation and dining out are cheaper in Stockholm than in most other West European capitals.

Taxes [ edit ]

Sweden has three levels of value-added tax ( moms or mervärdesskatt ). Price tags always include tax, except in a business-to-business context (wholesale stores, etc.), so the consumer need not worry about it.

Financial transactions, gambling, healthcare, dentistry and prescription medication are exempt from VAT. The 6 per cent level applies to passenger transport, books, newspapers, sport events, performances, zoos and museums. The 12 per cent level applies to travel accommodation and food (including restaurant meals and soft drinks, but not alcoholic beverages). Everything else has 25 percent VAT; that includes clothing, alcohol, tobacco, non-prescription medication, cosmetics, hair and beauty services, appliances, souvenirs, amusement parks, nightclubs, office supplies, electronic services, vehicles (including rental), and fuel.

Shopping [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Bargaining is not a common habit in Sweden, in some areas it is even frowned upon. It might work in some instances, especially for more expensive products, flea markets, street vendors, and antique shops after some small talk of interest. The act of haggling is called pruta in Swedish. A more enticing way of haggling to Swedes is to ask for a discount ( rabatt ), and then haggle for the size of the discount.

Most shops, at least major chains in central areas, are open all week, even on Sundays, although they do close on Christmas Day, Midsummer's Eve afternoon and all of Midsummer's Day. Closing times are rigid, most often on the minute.

At grocery stores and supermarkets it is considered good practice to place each product on the conveyor belt so that the barcode faces either towards you or upwards so they can be scanned more quickly by the cashier. Do not stack items on top of each other; place them one by one on a line, and remember to place the divider on the conveyor belt when you are done. Stores charge for plastic and paper bags (usually 1-3 kronor for plastic and double for paper), and you have to bag your goods yourself.

  • An unofficial national symbol, the Dala Horse (Swedish: dalahäst ) is the souvenir of souvenirs to bring from Sweden. Named after their origin, the province of Dalarna , these small wooden horses have been around since the 17th century. They are normally painted orange or blue with symmetrical decorations. They are fairly expensive: expect to pay around 100 kr for a very small one or several hundred kronor for bigger versions. The horses can be bought in souvenir shops all over Sweden. If you want to know more about how the horses are made, visit Dalarna and the municipality of Mora where the horses are carved and painted in workshops open for tourists. And if driving towards Mora from Stockholm , keep your eyes open when you pass the town of Avesta where the world's largest (13 meters high) Dala Horse overlooks the highway.
  • Swedish glass is world famous for its beauty. Several skilled glass artists have contributed to this reputation through innovative, complex (and expensive) art creations, but mass-produced Swedish table glass has also been an international success. Part of the province of Småland , between the towns of Växjö and Kalmar , is known as the Kingdom of Crystal . 15 glassworks are packed into this small area, the most famous being Orrefors , Kosta and Boda . Tourists are welcome to watch the glass blowers turn the glowing melt into glittering glass, and you can even give it a try yourself.
  • High-end wines from Systembolaget .
  • Swedish design, spanning from furniture to jewelry, is known for function, efficiency and minimalism. Designtorget [dead link] is a chain of stores with a wide range of everyday products; Lagerhaus is another. Svenskt Tenn is another store with beautiful items by designers such as Josef Frank.
  • There are some items for the home that are invented by Swedes that might be fun to bring home such as safety matches, adjustable spanners or adjustable wrenches, paraffin cooking stove (Primuskök) or a good old Celsius thermometer.
  • With a long tradition of woodwork, and the absence of wars in modern times, Sweden has plenty of antique furniture . Furniture made industrially in the early 20th century mimicking older styles ( stilmöbler ) can be found cheap.
  • Flea markets are literally translated as loppmarknad or loppis , and one of few places where haggling is accepted.

Eat [ edit ]

Swedish food is typical to the Nordic cuisine , based on meat (notably pork and game), fish, dairy products, potatoes and bread, together with berries and wild mushrooms. Fresh fruit and vegetables are rather recent additions to the menu.

sweden travel brochure

Traditional everyday dishes are called husmanskost (pronounced whos-mans-cost). Some of them are:

  • Pickled herring ( sill ) is eaten with bread or potatoes for summer lunch or as a starter on the smörgåsbord , at traditional holidays.
  • Many forms of salmon ( lax ), especially cured salmon ( gravlax ).
  • Meatballs ( köttbullar ), the internationally most famous Swedish dish. Served with potatoes, brown sauce and lingonberry jam .
  • Hash ( pytt i panna ) consisting of meat, onions and potatoes, all diced and fried. Sliced beetroots and a fried or boiled whole eggs are mandatory accessories.
  • Pea soup ( ärtsoppa ) with diced pork, followed by thin pancakes , is traditionally eaten on Thursdays.
  • Blodpudding , a black sausage made by pig's blood and flour, eaten with lingonberry jam.

sweden travel brochure

  • Falukorv , a big baloney from Falun .
  • Sweden has many varieties of bread ( bröd ). Many of them are whole-grain or mixed grain, containing wheat, barley, oats, compact and rich in fiber. Some notable examples are tunnbröd (thin wrap bread), knäckebröd (hard bread - might has a bland taste, but is nearly always available), and different kinds of seasoned loaves. Bread is mostly eaten as simple sandwiches, with thin slices of cheese or cold cuts. Some spreads typical to Sweden are messmör (whey butter) and leverpastej (liver pâté).
  • Reindeer , ren , traditionally herded by the Sami people . Renskav is sliced, sautéed reindeer meat, preferably eaten with wild mushrooms, lingonberries and potatoes.
  • Tunnbrödrulle , a fast food dish, consisting of a bread wrap with mashed potatoes, a hot dog and some vegetables.
  • Kroppkakor Potato dumpling stuffed with diced pork, reminiscent of the German Klöße. Originally from Småland , there is also a variant from Piteå up north, known as pitepalt.
  • Hard cheese ( ost ): In an ordinary food market you can often find 10 to 20 different types of cheese. The most famous Swedish hard cheese would be Västerbotten, named after a region in Sweden.
  • Milk ( mjölk ) is commonly drunk during meals. Filmjölk is a Nordic yoghurt, eaten with breakfast cereal.
  • Rose hip soup ( nyponsoppa ) and bilberry soup ( blåbärssoppa ), for recovery of heat and energy during winter sports .

Other Swedish favorites:

sweden travel brochure

  • Raggmunk , wheat flour, milk, egg, and shredded potatoes fried like thin pancakes served with fried pork (bacon) and lingonberries.
  • Soft whey butter ( messmör ), breadspread with a sweetish, hard-to-describe taste.
  • Caviar , not the expensive Russian or Iranian kind but a cheaper version made from cod roe, sold in tubes and used on sandwiches. The most famous brand is Kalles Kaviar .
  • Julmust , stout-like Christmas soft drink. Available during Easter as well, by then known as Påskmust.
  • Crayfish ( kräftor ), hugely popular around August, when Swedes feast on them at big crayfish parties ( kräftskivor ). Silly paper hats and lots of alcohol included.
  • Surströmming ; the world's stinkiest dish. See Nordic cuisine#Ingredients for details for how to eat it without disgusting oneself or the surroundings.
  • Semla , a cream-filled pastry traditionally eaten on Tuesdays in February and March, with start on Fat Tuesday.
  • Rabarberkräm/Rabarberpaj rhubarb cream or rhubarb pie with vanilla sauce (other cakes or pies on fresh blueberries, apples, or just strawberries with cream or ice cream are also very popular in the summer)
  • Spettekaka A local cake from Scania in south Sweden, made of eggs, sugar, and potato starch.
  • Smörgåstårta A cold Sandwich layer cake, often with salmon, eggs, and shrimps. (Also often with tuna or roast beef) Swedish people often eat it at New Year's Eve, or birthdays and parties.
  • Lösgodis candy from boxes that you mix on your own, sold by weight, is one of the most popular candy among this candy-loving nation. A choice of chocolate, sours, sweet and salt liqorice are always offered.
  • Swedish cookies and pastries like bondkakor , hallongrottor , bullar or cakes like prinsesstårta are widely popular. It used to be tradition to offer guest 7 different cookies when invited over for coffee. If you have a sweet tooth you should try chokladbollar , mazariner , biskvier , rulltårta or lussebullar .

As Sweden is stretched out between central Europe and the Arctic , there are many regional specialties. Among the more exotic are

  • Surströmming , a stinky canned fish popular along the Norrland coast.
  • Spettekaka , a meringue-like cake from Scania .

A specialty of the Raggare sub-culture (Swedish greaser culture) is hot dog with shrimp salad as topping. Some fast food vendors, especially in the countryside, has this dish on their menu.

sweden travel brochure

As in most of Europe, inexpensive pizza and kebab restaurants are ubiquitous in Swedish cities, and are also to be found in almost every small village. Sushi and Thai food are also quite popular. The local hamburger chain Max is recommended before McDonald's and Burger King , for tasteful Scandinavian furnishing, clean restrooms, no trans fats and free coffee with meals. In parts of Norrland it is customary to eat hamburgers with fork and knife - available at Max. Another Swedish chain Frasses offers apart from all kinds of meaty burgers a tasty vegetarian alternative - a quornburger. Another type of fast food establishment is the gatukök ("street kitchen"), serving hamburgers, hot dogs, kebab and tunnbrödrulle (se above).

Highway diners, vägkrogar , have generous meals, but might be of poor quality, greasy and overpriced. If you have time, a downtown restaurant is preferable. Gas stations sell decent packed salads and sandwiches.

You can get a relatively inexpensive lunch if you look for the signs with " Dagens rätt " or just " Dagens " ( Today's special or literally meal of the day ). This normally costs about 50-120 kr, and almost everywhere includes a bottle of water; soft drink; or light beer, bread & butter, salad bar and coffee afterwards. Dagens rätt is served Monday to Friday.

If you're on a tight budget, self-catering is the safest way to save your money. There are a few nationwide supermarket chains such as: Coop , ICA , Willy:s , City Gross and Lidl . As a rule of thumb, the Coop stores are usually most expensive with ICA as a runner up. Willy:s and Lidl are considered discount. City Gross used to be discount but is now catering more for local produce in meat and vegetables.

Vegetarian and vegan lifestyles are accepted in cities, less common in the countryside, where fishing and hunting are a national pastime. You should be able to find a falafel in any medium-sized town; or you may negotiate a price to only access the salad bar, as all well assorted eateries have one.

Drink [ edit ]

Coffee [ edit ].

Swedish consumption of coffee ( kaffe ) is among the highest in the world. Drinking coffee at home or in a café, an act called fika , is a common Swedish social ritual, used for planning activities, dating, exchanging gossip or simply spending time and money. Swedish coffee is filtered and usually stronger than American coffee - but still not the espresso of France or Italy. Italian varieties (espresso, cappuccino, caffe latte) are available at larger city cafés. Sweden has several domestic café franchises (Espresso House, Wayne's Coffee, Coffeehouse by George) with an international atmosphere, and a broad selection of coffees, sandwiches, and cakes.

One cup is around 25 kr, often including a refill, påtår . Many retailers sell coffee at their cafés for 5 kr a cup.

The traditional Swedish café is called konditori , and every city and town has at least one. They offer warm beverages as coffee, tea and cocoa, and an assortment of cookies, pastry and perhaps also smörgås , the Swedish open sandwich, and fralla , the Swedish closed sandwich. The sandwiches offered can vary a lot depending on where you are in Sweden.

Alcoholic beverages [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

The most famous Swedish alcoholic beverage is Absolut Vodka , one of the world's most famous vodkas. There are several brands of distilled, and usually seasoned, liquor, called brännvin . Brännvin does not have as high requirements on distilling as for Vodka and it is distilled from potatoes or grain. Liquor seasoned with dill and caraway is called akvavit . When brännvin is served in a shot glass with a meal it is called snaps (not to confuse with the German "Schnapps"). It is part of custom to drink snaps at occasions such as midsummers eve, Crayfish party, Christmas, student parties, etc. Often it is done together with a snapsvisa to every drink (a typical snapsvisa is a short, vigorous song; its lyrics usually tell of the delicacy and glory of the drink, or of the singer’s craving for snaps, or about anything in a cheeky way).

Punsch (not to be confused with punch) is a traditional sweet liqueur made from a combination of water, lemon, sugar, spirits and arrack, unique for Sweden and Finland. It can be served both warm and cold, usually has 25% alcohol by volume (ABV) and 30% sugar, and is by tradition often served at Thursdays together with pea & pork soup and pancakes. It grew very popular during the 18th and 19th centuries, generating a strong punsch-culture with numerous special punsch drinking songs, and maintains a strong precence in Swedish student culture.

If visiting Sweden in December or January a typical hot drink is glögg (similar to mulled wine or Glühwein). It is often served together with ginger bread and lussebullar or at the julbord (Christmas buffet). The main classic ingredients are red wine, sugar, spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and bitter orange, and optionally also stronger spirits such as vodka, akvavit, or brandy. There is also non-alcohol glögg .

Sweden does produce some outstanding beers , and there has been a rise in the numbers of microbreweries. Some of them are Slottskällans , Nils Oscar , Närke kulturbryggeri , Jämtlands ångbryggeri and Dugges Ale- & Porterbryggeri . You may have some trouble finding them, unless you go to a bar with a wide range of beers, or a well-stocked Systembolaget , but you will find a few of them in every major city. Despite this the most common beer is the rather plain "international lager". The beer you get in supermarkets is called folköl and has 2.8 or 3.5% alcohol. You are able to find a variety of different brands of beers in food stores, Swedish, English and even Czech beer. Sweden has a seasonal beer for Christmas, julöl . It is sweeter than normal beer and usually seasoned with Christmas spices, mostly it is ale. All Swedish breweries make at least one type of julöl. Wine is popular, but the Swedish production is very modest.

Drinking alcohol in parks and public spaces outdoors is generally allowed, with some obvious exceptions (playgrounds, schoolyards, etc. and places were a prohibition is posted). Drinking your own is also prohibited in shopping centres and the like and on public transport and in associated areas; there may be licensed restaurants or bars.

Establishments with permission to serve alcohol (those allowed to sell strong drinks usually advertise it as fullständiga rättigheter , "full rights") are usually not permitted to sell alcohol to be consumed outside the establishment.

Beer and lager up to 3.5% ABV is readily available in supermarkets at 10–15 kr a piece, but strong alcoholic beverages are, as in Norway , Finland and Iceland available over the counter only from the state-owned retailer, Systembolaget (also sometimes referred to as Systemet or Bolaget ). Its stores are usually open M–W 10:00–18:00, Th F 10:00–19:00, and Sa 10:00–15:00, with long queues on Fridays and Saturdays, closing at the minute no matter how long the queue outside the store is, something the Swedes themselves joke about. They are always closed on Sundays. Most shops are of supermarket style. The assortment is very good, and the staff usually has great knowledge. Systembolaget does not serve customers already intoxicated or under the age of 20, and will most likely ask for identification from customers looking younger than 25. This also applies to any companions, regardless of who is making the actual purchase.

Beverages are heavily taxed by content of alcohol, some liquor is very expensive (vodka is around 300 kr a litre at Systembolaget), but the monopoly has brought some perks – Systembolaget is one of the world's largest bulk-buyers of wine, and as such gets some fantastic deals which it passes on to consumers. Mid-to-high-quality wines often cost less in Sweden than in the country of origin; sometimes even less than if you were to buy the wine directly from the vineyard. This does not apply to low-quality wines or hard liquor, due to the volume-based tax on alcohol.

All brands are treated equally and there is no large-pack discount. Therefore, microbrews cost largely the same as major brands, and might be a more interesting choice. Beverages are not refrigerated.

Moonshine ( hembränt ) is popular in the countryside, though illegal. Though some shipments can be as good as legal vodka, most are disgusting and some may be hazardous, so you should stick to the real thing.

Bars and nightclubs [ edit ]

The minimum age requirement is 18 to get into bars and to buy regular (3.5% ABV or less) beer in shops (to prevent teenage drunkenness, some shops have decided to enforce a minimum age of 20 for 3.5% beer as well), and 20 in Systembolaget. Many bars have an age limit of 20, but some (especially on weekends in those in the centre) have age limits as high as 23 or 25, but this rule is arbitrarily enforced. Bring passport or ID.

Some high-end nightclubs mandate dress code, vårdad klädsel is casual dress; this is also arbitrarily enforced. For male guests, proper shoes (not trainers or sandals), long-legged trousers (not blue jeans) and a dress shirt is almost always good enough.

Age and dress requirements are not rigid, and doormen have the right to reject any patron for any reason except gender, sexual orientation, creed, disability or race, which is illegal discrimination. Still, some nightclubs are infamous for rejecting "immigrants", especially men of African or Middle Eastern origin, on pretexts such as "members only", "too drunk", or "dress code". Getting into a club is easier for patrons who dress and behave well, and arrive fairly early.

Sweden has enforced non-smoking in all bars, pubs and restaurants, save outdoor areas such as terraces, and designated smoking rooms (where drinks are not allowed).

The prices at clubs and bars are among the more expensive in Europe: a (0.4 L) glass of draft lager, stor stark , usually costs 45-65 kr, but some dive bars advertise it for as little as 29 kr early evenings. A cocktail costs around 60-130 kr. For that reason many Swedes have a small pre-party ("förfest") before they hit the town and go to nightclubs.

Large clubs can require a cover charge, usually about 100 kr, more at special performances. They usually offer a rubber stamp on your hand so you can re-enter as you like without having to pay again.

Be aware that you often have to stand in line to get into a bar or a club. Many places deliberately make their customers wait in line for a while, since a long queue indicates a popular club. At the very fanciest places in the major cities, the queue is often replaced by a disorganized crowd, and the doorman simply points to indicate who gets in and who does not (to be sure to get in either be famous, very good-looking or a friend of the doorman – or a regular).

Most bars that close at 01:00 or earlier will have a free entry policy. Most bars and clubs that remain open until 03:00 will charge an entrance fee. There are some clubs in the largest cities that remain open until 05:00. Their entrance fee will usually be around 200 kr and their entry policy will generally weigh less favourably for the non-rich, non-well-moisturised, non-Swedes, non-friends and non-regulars.

The club's wardrobe (or coat-checking) fee is often mandatory, usually around 20 kr.

Sleep [ edit ]

Car camping is convenient and cost-efficient, as you can stay overnight nearly anywhere.

Camping [ edit ]

The Right to access ( Allemansrätten ) allows anyone to camp in uncultivated areas (including private property, but not near houses) without asking. There are certain limitations, for instance you are only allowed to stay at a certain spot for one night, before you have to move on. If you are travelling to Sweden in the summer, check out the local conditions when it comes to camp fires. Forests in Sweden can get very dry and temporary bans on lighting fires are not unusual.

Check with SMHI , the meteorological agency, for up-to-date weather forecasts, including fire risks and other weather-related warnings, such as storms, floods and blizzards.

If you prefer camping a bit more organized, most towns have campsites with showers and electricity. Expect to pay around 100–150 kr for a tentsite, but for two or three busiest weeks prices can go as high as 400 kr. Camping.se is the booking site of the national campsite organisation SCR. The leading campsite chain is called First Camp – comfortable, but can be expensive (they use dynamic price calculation), so check for local-led alternatives which can be cheaper (i.e. plain price). Campsites seem to be mainly for people with campers, who tend to prepare food at their campers. Therefore, places in service buildings, where one coming from a poorer country would expect a kitchen, have just sinks to wash dishes and a burner to cook food (but no kitchen utensils nor table).

Hostels [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Svenska Turistföreningen , STF , is by far the most important operator of hostels , vandrarhem , in Sweden, with a network of more than 300 hostels around the country. Membership for foreigners is 175 kr, and if you plan to stay four nights or more at hostels in Sweden you should join, since non-members pay an additional 45 kr per night. STF is affiliated with Hostelling International or HI, and if you are a member of any HI organisation you are considered a member of STF.

STF offers beds for the night in dorms or single and double rooms. The concept is standardized throughout Sweden, and only includes the price of the bed or room, with access to common kitchen facilities, common bath rooms and showers. Some hostels have double rooms with bath room and shower en suite.

Sveriges vandrarhem i förening [dead link] , SVIF is another nation-wide hostel confederation.

The price per night per person in a hostel is 80-280 kr depending on where the hostel is located and how classy or tacky it is. Sheets are required (just a sleeping bag is not enough) and if you don't bring any you have to purchase at the hostel for around 50 kr. You are expected to clean out your room when leaving. Cooking equipment is normally available at all hostels for those who want to self-cater.

Some hostels are more spectacular than others; for instance Jumbostay at Arlanda Airport, located inside a decommissioned Boeing 747 , and Långholmen Hostel in Stockholm, that used to be a prison.

Apartments and B&B:s are not the same thing, but Swedish online booking agencies tend to think so. Renting an apartment may be an interesting option if you plan to stay for a few nights in one of the major cities and want more privacy than a hostel offers.

Road signs with the word Rum don't show the way to the nearest drinking den for pirates - rum in Swedish means "room", and that sign points to a B&B.

Hotels [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Normal Swedish hotels tend to be clean, not-so-interesting and fairly expensive. A single room can easily set you back 1000 kr. Most towns, even smaller ones, still have a traditional stadshotell , Statt , (town hotel) somewhere in the city center, which usually contains the town's largest restaurant and/or nightclub. On a more positive note, breakfast buffets at Swedish hotels are often impressive with plenty to choose from - try not to be in too much of a hurry in the morning! Major hotel chains include Scandic and First.

It doesn't matter how many circumflexes Stockholm's Grand Hôtel uses, or how many celebrities stay there, the coolest hotel in Sweden is the Icehotel . Located in the village of Jukkasjärvi in the far north, it is a hotel built from snow and ice. It melts in spring and is rebuilt every winter. Ice hotels are built in several other countries, but the one in Jukkasjärvi is the original. One night in a single room is 2850 kr, book in advance.

There are an increasing number of hotels in Sweden that are "cashless" which means cash may no longer be used to settle payments. Thus, make sure you have a debit/credit card or try to settle your accommodation payment before you start your trip.

Vacation homes [ edit ]

Sweden has 680,000 vacation homes . Many of those are old farmhouses, or simple cabins from the early 20th century. While dwellings in holiday hotspots such as the Stockholm archipelago , Åre or Visby can cost as much as an urban home, woodland farmhouses in Småland or far-off parts of Norrland can be bought for a token sum of money. As Sweden is a high-income country, carpentry and other home improvement services are costly; do it yourself is usually the most economic option. Most vacation homes (except the most isolated ones) have electricity. Countryside or island houses usually have no public water supply, and rely on a local water pump, and an outhouse.

Rental homes and hospitality exchange [ edit ]

As Sweden has strong rent control and tenant protection, a rental contract is difficult to get in and near the largest cities. The most common apartment ownership in Sweden is bostadsrättsförening , a condominium-like organization.

Hospitality exchange services such as Airbnb can be found in Sweden, but rooms are much fewer than in other European countries, due to regulations.

Learn [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Sweden is well-known for its high-quality education system. The country strongly emphasises equal and accessible education for all its citizens and is home to some of Europe's most prestigious universities.

All education in Sweden is free for residents. Although the government has subsidized schools and classes, a few private alternatives exist where a tuition fee is required. Students' Union membership is optional, but the union fee of around 500 kr/year can give several perks, such as mediation of dorm rooms or entrance to union parties and events.

If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen wishing to study at a Swedish university or other schools of higher education, you will need to pay tuition fees. Regardless, you must pay for housing, food, literature, etc.

Most undergraduate courses are taught in Swedish, though many postgraduate courses are taught in English. Many universities also conduct lessons for foreigners who wish to learn Swedish.

Some important university cities :

Most universities follow the custom known as an "academic quarter", where classes and most academic events will begin 15 minutes past the hour. At some schools after 18:00, this becomes a "double quarter" where events commence 30 minutes past the hour. Students are expected to be punctual and show up at the appropriate time.

The KTH Royal Institute of Technology ( Kungliga Tekniska högskolan ) is the country's largest and most prestigious technical university.

Work [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Sweden has a strong welfare system, a high standard of living, and a robust economy. Working in Sweden can be a great opportunity for those seeking to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Citizens of the Nordic countries, the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland have the right to enter, reside, and work in Sweden freely. Everyone else, however, needs a work permit to work in Sweden. More information about the paperwork required is found on the government website Sweden Abroad .

With an unemployment rate of 7.6% (as of 2023), finding a job in Sweden can be a competitive affair. A decent knowledge of Swedish will significantly enhance your employment opportunities.

The government runs a job agency named Arbetsförmedlingen , but most jobs are provided through other channels.

The average hourly wage was 188 kr in Dec 2022 , and is typically paid once per month.

Stay safe [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Sweden is generally a safe place to travel, but there has been a noticeable rise in violent crime over the last few years. If you heed whatever warnings you would do in your own country, you should have no problems. Notable risk factors include drunk brawls on weekend nights and dense low-income suburbs on the edge of major cities (known in Swedish as utsatta områden ). The current våldsvågen (violent crime wave) of shootings and bombings has attracted significant attention in the Swedish media, but many of the published articles are a bit sensational.

Organized gang crime is a growing issue in larger Swedish cities, with influence over the illegal narcotics, gambling, prostitution and labour trafficking markets. Tourists are not targeted.

Although there is a significant police presence in the city centres, especially on weekend nights, the countryside is quite weakly policed; especially Norrland, where the nearest patrol car – and the nearest ambulance – might be a hundred kilometres away.

Pickpockets usually work in tourist-frequented areas, such as airports , rail stations, public transportation , shopping areas and festivals. Most Swedes carry their wallets in their pockets or purses and feel quite safe while doing it. Still, almost all stores and restaurants accept most major credit cards, so there is no need to carry a lot of cash around. If you have a bike, do lock it or you may lose it.

Authorized security officers carry a grey uniform labelled ordningsvakt , and have the authority to use force. They patrol nightclubs, shopping malls, festivals and city centres. Security staff without special authority have the badge väktare .

While Swedish police and security officers are helpful to well-behaving people, detention laws are rather harsh, and do not allow bailout. Police can detain overly intoxicated people overnight if they endanger others or themselves, and relocate people who behave disorderly, even without suspicion of crime. A suspect of crime can be jailed until trial, if the court sees a risk of flight (which is often the case for foreigners).

The age of consent is 15 or, towards people under ones care, 18. Consent has to be clearly expressed: if one part is passive, the case may be considered a rape (even if there is no penetration). Although being a prostitute is not illegal in Sweden, hiring one is a crime.

Knife -carrying in public areas is criminalised in Sweden (except blunt or very small knives) unless needed for work, outdoor life, or other activities. Packing down a knife with camping equipment is legitimate.

Be sure to watch for cars in the road junctions. There is a law in Sweden called "the Zebra law" which means that cars must stop at zebra crossings. Many Swedes believe that all the drivers do that. By watching for cars you may save not only your life but also a friend's, since reported injuries have increased because of the law. If you do drive then just follow the law.

In case of emergency [ edit ]

112 is the emergency phone number to dial in case of fire, medical or criminal emergency. It does not require an area code, regardless of what kind of phone you're using. The number works on any mobile phone, with or without a SIM card, even if it's keylocked (without SIM, you will be asked to press "5" before the call will be answered).

Swedish police are stretched thin across the country. Officers are rarely on patrol, and might be too busy to head out for minor crimes. To report a theft or getting in contact with the police in general, there is a national non-emergency phone number 114 14 that will bring you in contact with an operator at a police station (usually nearby, but not always).

Predators [ edit ]

Brown bear ( brunbjörn ), wolf ( varg ), lynx ( lo ) and wolverine ( järv ) roam the Swedish wilderness, though they are unusual to sight. Contrary to popular belief abroad, there are no wild polar bears in Sweden. Bears are most likely to attack if they are injured, provoked by a dog, going to hibernate or protecting their cubs. Bears in Sweden have killed no more than a handful of people since 1900. Though wild wolves might attack pets and livestock, they avoid people.

Animal collisions [ edit ]

Animal collisions are a serious risk factor on the road, especially at dusk. Elk ( älg ), deer ( hjort ) and wild boar ( vildsvin ) are common, the latter only in southern Sweden. Reindeer ( ren ) is common in Lappland . Many national roads ( riksväg ) and most European routes ( europaväg ) have long sections with wildlife fences ( viltstängsel ) to keep large animals away. A traffic sign usually warns when the wildlife fence ends with the text: Viltstängsel upphör . In mountanious Lappland it is common that heards of reindeers takes up the road, and it is not uncommon that a rock ptarmigan ( fjällripa ) suddenly decides to cross the road.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Certified pharmacies carry a green cross sign and the text Apotek . For small medical problems the pharmacy is sufficient. Major cities carry one pharmacy open at night. Many supermarkets carry non-prescription supplies such as band aid and antiseptics. Strong painkillers are sold only at pharmacies.

Swedish health care is usually of high quality, but can be quite challenging for foreigners to receive. Most medical clinics are run by the public sector, and their accessibility varies. Therefore, getting a time within a week at some medical centres could prove difficult. In case of a medical emergency, most provinces (and of course, the major cities) have a regional hospital with an around-the-clock emergency ward. However, if you are unlucky you can expect a long wait before getting medical attention. Call 112 for emergencies, and 1177 for non-emergency medical consulting, as well as directions for open medical clinics.

Tap water in Sweden is of great quality, and contains close to zero bacteria. Water in mountain resorts might contain rust, and water on islands off the coast might be brackish, but it is still safe to drink. There is no real reason for buying bottled water in Sweden. Also, there is bottled water that doesn't meet the requirements to be used as tap water in Sweden.

There are few serious health risks in Sweden. Your primary concern in winter will be cold weather , particularly if hiking or skiing in the northern parts. Northern Sweden is sparsely populated and, if heading out into the wilderness, it is imperative that you register your travel plans with a friend or the authorities so they can come looking for you if you fail to show up. Dress warmly in layers and bring along a good pair of sunglasses to prevent snow blindness , especially in the spring. In snowy mountains, avalanches might be a problem.

Pests [ edit ]

A serious nuisance are mosquitoes ( myggor ,) particularly in the north, during wet summers. While they do not carry malaria or other infections, Swedish mosquitoes make a distinctive (and highly irritating) whining sound, and their bites are very itchy. As usual, they are most active around dawn and sunset — which, in the land of the Midnight Sun, may mean most of the night in summer. Supermarkets have many types of mosquito repellents.

Other summer nuisances are gadflies ( bromsar ), whose painful but non-venomous bites can leave a mark lasting for days, and wasps ( getingar ) whose stings can be deadly for allergics in very rare cases. Use mosquito repellent, ensure your tent has good mosquito netting, and bring proper medication if you know that you're allergic to wasp stings.

Ticks ( fästingar ) appear in summer, especially in tall grass. They can transmit Lyme's disease (borreliosis) and more serious TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) through a bite. The risk areas for TBE are mainly the eastern parts of Svealand and the Stockholm archipelago . Wear bright clothes, and check your body (and your pets) after outdoor trips. You can buy special tick tweezers ( fästingplockare ) from the pharmacy.

There's only one type of venomous snake in Sweden: the European adder ( huggorm ), which has a distinct zig-zag pattern on its back. The snake is not very common, but lives all over Sweden except for the northern mountains. Its bite is hardly ever life-threatening (except to small children and allergic people), but people bitten should seek medical assistance. All reptiles in Sweden, including adders, are protected by law and must not be harmed.

There are no really dangerous marine animals in Sweden, although when bathing in the sea one should watch out for Greater weevers ( Fjärsing ); a small fish hiding in sand, with several venomous spikes on its back. The venom is about as dangerous as that of the European adder, and will likely cause more pain (this can be quite severe) than damage. There are also venomous jellyfish , bright blue or red, in the sea. The venom is not lethal, but it hurts.

Stinging nettles grow in wet and nitrogen-rich places (especially where people urinate outdoors), but getting stung is generally not dangerous, only locally hurting for a few hours.

Respect [ edit ]

sweden travel brochure

Many Swedes have liberal, cosmopolitan, secular, egalitarian and environmentalist values by international standards, similar to other Nordic countries. This spares Western tourists from some cultural clashes that might be imminent in other countries. However, some strict rules of etiquette are almost unique to Swedish people. There are also intolerant circles.

  • Though some people in Sweden use narcotics , most Swedes, old and young, are strongly opposed to them. Possession and intoxication of non-medical drugs (including cannabis ) lead to a fine and a note in the criminal record. The police can force a suspected drug user to produce a urine or blood sample.
  • When it comes to alcohol , Swedes are as double-natured as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Before work or driving, one beer is one too many. However, drunkenness can be a regular part of many Swedish traditions (e.g. Midsommar, Valborg, etc.) – keep this in mind if you abstain from alcohol. Some Swedes frown on people being sober at a party and reject excuses other than driving or pregnancy.
  • Swedish people want and expect privacy and personal space. Salespeople, waiters and other service employees are usually less attentive than their colleagues in other countries, to respect customers' privacy, except a short "hej" to entering customers. Customers are supposed to call for attention. When entering a bus or another form of public transportation it is often considered impolite to sit next to another person if there is another twin seat available. This also applies to international celebrities, who can generally walk around the streets without being bothered by the general public; approaching a celebrity outside official fan events is extremely disrespectful in Swedish culture.
  • In most homes it is customary to remove your shoes . If you just assume that you are to take them off upon entry, in most cases you will have done the right thing, but you could check whether other guests have left theirs by the front door. If you are dressed up and feel undressed without shoes, bring indoor shoes , like many of the guests will. At more formal parties also wearing outdoor shoes may be acceptable. Indoor shoes may also be brought for warmth (especially to cottages and the like): most Swedish homes have wood flooring; wall-to-wall carpets are uncommon.
  • Despite rumours of the "Swedish sin", Swedish people are generally not accepting of public nudity except at designated nudist beaches. Don't go skinny-dipping in public beaches if you are more than about four years old. Female toplessness is accepted at public baths, but uncommon. Public breastfeeding is a consolidated right at any place, even at business meetings and high-end restaurants. Male toplessness is accepted in the countryside and at the beach, but might be frowned upon in urban areas.
  • Greetings between men and women who know each other (e.g., are good friends, relatives) are often in the form of a hug . Swedes don't cheek-kiss to greet but are aware that other cultures do. If you are a visitor from France and do cheek-kiss a Swede, they will attempt to return the favour but probably feel a bit awkward doing so.
  • Show up on the minute for meetings and meals, preferably five minutes before the set time. There is no "fashionably late" in Sweden. However, showing up early at a private invitation is considered rude. If it's acceptable to arrive late, it's usually mentioned specifically (e.g., "...arrive after 1700") or there are established rules (some universities apply an "akademisk kvart", an academic quarter hour, within which it is acceptable to arrive to lectures).
  • Sweden is quite tolerant about homosexuality . Same-sex marriages have legal standing in Sweden. The chance of facing extreme criticism or homophobia is low in Sweden, as the country has anti-discrimination and hate crime laws. Violence against gays and lesbians is very rare.
  • Sweden is a multicultural country . Do not make assumptions based on peoples' appearance. Outward displays of racism, sexism, or homophobia are often met with hostility. Even slight preferences may be noticed and noted. That being said, there has been a rise of racist instances towards Swedes of colour, particularly with immigrant backgrounds. Do not be afraid to call the police if you feel like you are in danger.
  • As of the 2020s, beggars from the Balkans (typically of Roma origin ) can be seen in most towns or cities. Homeless Swedes beg as well; while there can be many of them in city centres, the transactions usually take place without nuisance. Loitering outdoors, begging, and handing money to beggars is not illegal in Sweden. Many municipalities, though, have made it compulsory for beggars to file for a permit to beg in public, which indirectly has curbed the trend; the social services are supposed to take care of those in need.
  • A sensitive topic in Sweden is hunting and wildlife management, especially when it comes to the population of wolves and other predators. People in the countryside have strong opinions on the subject.
  • Swedish decision-making processes are based on consensus . Swedes are generally raised to concentrate on what unites, rather than on what divides. For a foreigner it may seem odd that it can be very difficult for a Swede to counter your opinion with a plain "no" or "never". Most Swedes will try to counter your opinion with something positive – to create consensus, or will say nothing at all. This does not mean they do not have an opinion of their own. Have this in mind when trying to get to know Swedes. Approach them with questions and queries that can be answered in a positive way – and you will break the ice. The less positive truth comes out when Swedes will trust you in consuming alcoholic beverages with them.
  • Gender neutrality is an important part of Swedish culture, and most parents aim to raise their children in a gender-neutral way. For instance, toy manufacturers are required to market their products in a gender-neutral way, and Swedish schools aim to treat boys and girls equally; check with the family before bringing a Barbie doll as a present. Both sexes work in all trades and positions.
  • Local pride is strong in Sweden for each county, province or municipality. There is also a cultural gap between the capital Stockholm and the rest of the country. Stockholmers are perceived as arrogant know-it-alls by non-Stockholmers, and people from outside Stockholm, especially from Scania, are perceived by Stockholmers as yokels and backwards-thinking. This cultural gap stems to a degree from a historical background, inasmuch as governors ( landshövding ) were appointed by the king, and they nowadays are appointed by the national government in Stockholm as leaders of the counties.
  • Money is a taboo topic in Sweden, and many Swedes are more comfortable talking about their sex lives than their personal finances.
  • Queueing , standing in line for something, is very organised in Sweden. Always look for the dispenser with the numbered queue slips ( kölapp , nummerlapp ). Expect to be reprimanded by staff or bystanders if you approach without a queue slip or with the wrong queue slip.
  • Although 52.8% of Swedes are members of the Church of Sweden (as of 2022), an Evangelical Lutheran church, Sweden is by and large a secular country , and only a minority of Swedes go to church regularly. Freedom of religion is generally respected, but most people are uncomfortable discussing religion with people they are not very close to.

Cope [ edit ]

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  • Around payday, on the 25th of each month, stores and bars can get very crowded.
  • Smoking is not allowed in restaurants, bars or any other indoor establishments (except outdoor terraces and designated smoking rooms). Smoking in someone's home is usually out of the question; if you ask kindly you might be allowed to light up on the balcony or the porch. Relatively few Swedes smoke daily, but some men and women use " snus " (snuff), a tobacco pouch inserted into the upper lip. It comes in a wide variety of different styles and flavours and in both loose and portion form. Portions are more popular and generally recommended for public events, as loose snus can be very messy when removed. Unlike American oral tobaccos, it is not usually necessary to spit if the snus is properly placed. Most bars and clubs will have snus receptacles instead of ashtrays on the tables. Be warned, however, that snus can seem very harsh to first time users, with a nicotine level several times that of cigarettes.

Bring [ edit ]

  • Credit or debit card . Payment by credit and debit card is very widespread in Sweden: in some cases, there might not be the option to pay cash, including at some ticket machines, local buses in e.g. Stockholm, and some over-the-counter transactions. Nearly all stores and all ATMs accept VISA and MasterCard, as well as Maestro (Switch). PIN-pads are widely used instead of signatures (even for credit cards), so if your card has a PIN, memorize it before you leave home. Don't expect stores to accept foreign currency, apart from close to the borders, where usually only the neighbour currency is accepted (i.e. Danish krone, Norwegian krone or euro). Larger stores in Stockholm and at larger airports and railway stations often accept payment in Euro, typically at unfavourable rates. If you do not have a debit or credit card when you arrive in Sweden, you can use your cash (make sure you exchange them for Swedish krona first) to buy a Paygoo Mastercard gift card at the Pressbyrån outlets available at major airports, train stations, and coach stations; it will be accepted in the same way as any other MasterCard in most outlets.
  • Passport or EU national identity card as identification. A driver's license is not a valid ID in Sweden, but it might work nonetheless (more frequently if issued in the standard EU format). You will frequently be asked to prove age or identity – for instance when using your credit card, when buying alcohol, when renting accommodation or when entering bars and clubs. You will also need it to register a prepaid phone account (see "Connect"). Banks accept only Swedish identity documents. Swedish bureaucracy is efficient but rigid.
  • Warm clothes and extra shoes. Weather in Sweden is unpredictable. It can get cold and/or wet, but almost never too hot.
  • If you plan on staying in Sweden for an extended period of time, pack some rain clothes. If you don't own any, they can be bought in many stores across Sweden – but can be somewhat expensive.
  • Mobile phone . There are no public phone booths in Sweden anymore. Swedish GSM (2G), 3G, and 4G coverage is great, at least in populated areas, but don't expect it to work everywhere. In rural areas the state-owned operator Telia might be the only one available. If you have another operator you may only place emergency calls. 5G is being implemented nationwide reaching maximum coverage by all providers in 2025. Within the same time frame GSM (2G) and 3G is being dismantled to make place for improved 4G coverage and 5G. If your plan does not include roaming, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card ( kontantkort ) at the Pressbyrån outlets available at major airports, train stations, and coach stations to enjoy fairly generous mobile data allowances. Since 2022 it is mandatory to register a Swedish SIM card, for tourists by showing passport or national-ID. If you are short on time, avoid Telia or Halebop as those have to be registered at a Telia store; other operators support self-service registration by using their app or website to upload a photo of your ID, allowing you to get started within minutes. You can also use your smartphone to buy tickets for various transport services and other attractions and store them for inspection later.
  • Power plug adapters, if you come from the UK or North America. Sweden follows European standard 230 volt 50 Hz and uses Schuko plugs.
  • European Health Insurance Card, if you are an EU/EEA citizen.
  • In forests and mountains, use mosquito repellent , myggmedel , which is available in most food stores.

Do not bring [ edit ]

  • Cash money from your home country – see above. However there are currency exchange offices at airports and in city centres that will exchange most currencies. Some bank branches will not exchange currency, or handle cash at all in some cases.
  • Tear gas or pepper spray for self-defence. These require authorization to be carried in Sweden, and you will probably not have use for them either way, due to the country's low rate of violent crime.

Electricity and utilities [ edit ]

Sweden uses 230 V 50 Hz electricity with the F/Schuko plug, available everywhere except the most isolated cabins. Supply is reliable, though the countryside might have blackouts during severe storms. Most buildings have sufficient heating; air conditioning is however mostly found in commercial buildings, rarely in private homes.

Toilets [ edit ]

The availability and standard of public toilets varies a lot. Except gas stations, they are available at most rest areas. Public toilets in cities and at rail stations might be scarce, and often require a fee (which can be as high as 12kr in the more upscale shopping centres). Toilets in city restaurants are usually for guests only. There are approximately 270 public rest areas ( rastplats ) along the roads in Sweden ( map ); there should be one for every 40–80 minutes of driving, i.e. every 50–100 km. They should have at least a toilet, an information board, some benches and a waste management system, all accessible by the disabled. Some are well-planned and nice.

Urinating behind a tree at a countryside road is acceptable; in a city street it is criminalized and might lead to a fine.

Pets [ edit ]

Pets have rights according to Swedish law. One of these rights stipulates that a dog or a cat must be offered water at least every six hours. At many restaurants that serve outdoors a bowl of water is placed outdoors to accommodate pets. They also have the right to be walked.

In many municipalities it constitutes a breach of the environmental act to leave dog faeces ( hundbajs ) in public places. Since it is legal to film people littering for the sake of filing legal charges, walking the dog might get expensive if their droppings are left unattended. Plastic bags for dog poo ( hundbajspåse ) are for sale at almost any supermarket, and they should be used for picking up the droppings, and then left at a dedicated litter bin for this purpose, that can be found in green areas in these municipalities.

From 1 March to 20 August special attention is required when walking a dog in the wild. Dogs are not allowed to roam freely where game lives. In practice, this means if the dog does not stay within a few meters of its human company, it must be wearing a leash ( koppel ). During the rest of the year, the dog must be within sight and command at all times of its human company, or it must be wearing a leash. When entrance is permitted for dogs to national parks and nature reserves, they must always wear a leash. The dog owner is always legally responsible for their dog, which also means getting acquainted with the appropriate laws. Different rules apply when a dog is with a hunting party, and the owner of the hunting rights must give their approval.

Connect [ edit ]

Mail [ edit ].

sweden travel brochure

The national postal service in Sweden is run by PostNord and is considered efficient and reliable. Postal service points ( serviceställe or postombud ) sells postage stamps and can be found in many supermarkets and grocery stores all over the country. Post boxes are yellow with the postal logo, and are emptied once every workday. Domestic mail is delivered every second workday. Parcels are delivered every workday, in some places even on Saturdays. An unregistered priority (airmail) postcard or letter with a weight of less than 50 grams is 36 kr (approximately €3.20) for all international destinations (as of January 2024).

Alternatively, packages can be sent within Sweden and to international destinations with DHL or within Sweden and the European Union with DB Schenker . The latter website is in the Swedish language only, and you might need the help of a local to book and send a package.

Telephone and Internet [ edit ]

Sweden's international calling code number is +46. Public pay phones ceased to exist in 2015. Sweden is the world's second most Internet-connected country (after Iceland ).

Sweden has excellent wireless GSM and 3G/UMTS coverage, even in rural areas, except in the central and northern interior parts of the country. Swedish GSM operates on the European 900/1800 MHz frequencies (Americans will need a triband phone), with 3G/UMTS on 2100 MHz (with 7.2–14.4 Mbit HSDPA speeds). 4G/LTE coverage is also widely available, and 5G is being deployed in major urban areas.

The major operators are Telia , Tele2 , Telenor and 3 (Tre) . The major operators have discounted services via their affiliated brands – Halebop , Comviq , Vimla , and Hallon . Some operators may require a Swedish personnummer (or samordningsnummer) to get a number, although all operators ( except Hallon! ) that sell prepaid will allow you to get it without any "personnummer" (Tele2 and 3 do not sell prepaid, so they are not linked here), and these are sold and refillable at most supermarkets and tobacco stores. If "prepaid" is not understood ask for a Kontantkort . Alternatively, if you already have a SIM from another EU/EEA country, you may be able to continue using it in Sweden, subject to any fair-use limits imposed by your home provider.

Swedish law now requires all Swedish prepaid SIMs to be registered to a person with a Swedish personnummer, a BankID, or valid photo ID (passport or identity card) before they can be used. The procedure varies depending on the provider. Telia and Halebop require you to bring the SIM to a Telia store for registration, and requires a form that has to be sent off to the central support desk for processing. This can take a few hours before you can start purchasing plans to use. Telenor SIMs can be registered by yourself online here and are ready to load and use immediately after the necessary data is uploaded. Hallon SIMs can not be registered without BankID, so avoid their SIMs.

Prepaid USB 4G/LTE modems or data-only SIMs for a modem you already have can be bought in many stores. They are a good alternative to WiFi in Sweden, costing relatively little (300kr a month will get you 20-30GB depending on provider, and a couple of providers even offer unlimited data for a slightly higher price). Alternatively, these days, all providers allow tethering, meaning that a phone's data connection can be shared to any other devices within WiFi range without having to purchase a separate device. The number of WiFi access points are growing and fast food chains, libraries, hotels, cafés and malls and others may offer free wireless internet access. Fixed terminals where you can pay for internet access exist as well, although many libraries can provide the same service for free.

If you are planning on continuing to use your SIM in another EU/EEA country after leaving Sweden, it is important to familiarize yourself with each provider's EU roaming policy and purchase a SIM with that in mind. Halebop limits EU roaming to 10 GB a month. Comviq has fair-use limits in place that vary by plan. Only Telenor and Telia allow full use of their prepaid plans across the entire EU/EEA without any extra charge. It is, however, not possible to buy refill vouchers for these products outside Sweden in general (although Telenor and Telia will both accept foreign credit cards for refills online).

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Sweden travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

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Why you’ll love it

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For a country with a population of little more than ten million, Sweden certainly has its share of dynamic cities. Easily Scandinavia’s most photogenic capital (sorry, Copenhagen), Stockholm is a multicultural blend of innovative design, trendy art galleries, historic museums and irresistible, sustainable dining. Built across 14 islands, Stockholm’s districts each have their own distinct vibe — from posh Östermalm to hipster Södermalm, from historic Gamla stan to modern Kungsholmen. Stockholm’s more laid-back west-coast sister, Gothenburg, is home to Sweden’s best shellfish and radiates a hipster vibe with cool nightlife venues and plenty of on-trend cafés for taking fika (coffee breaks, ideally paired with cardamom, not cinnamon, buns). Gothenburg is also home to the country’s largest fish auction and market, so life in this part of the country revolves heavily around seafood.

Beyond Stockholm and Gothenburg, further south, Malmö provides a mishmash of culinary influences and is the best part of the country for international cuisine. As fans of Scandic noir know only too well, Malmö is a quick 35-minute drive or public transportation ride across the Öresund Bridge from Copenhagen , making it a perfect weekend getaway for Danes as well.

Away from the cities, you’ll find medieval fishing towns and mesmerising seascapes along the country’s roughly 3,200km coastline, framed by both the Baltic and North Seas. The popular islands of Gotland and Öland off Sweden’s east coast are where locals go to hide away during summer months. The southernmost region of Skåne provides lush rolling countryside, historic Helsingborg across the bay from Denmark, and the well-known university town, Lund. And visitors should venture upwards, too, towards the Arctic Circle in northern Sweden which offers opportunities to experience the country’s great outdoors, indulge in winter sports and learn about indigenous Sámi lifestyles.

Ninety-seven per cent of Sweden’s surface area is made up of uninhabited pine forests, mountain ranges, and tundras. Throw in over 25 national parks, and it’s safe to say that you won’t struggle to find the great outdoors during a visit to Sweden. From experiencing the midnight sun in city parks during summer months to chasing the northern lights around the Arctic Circle in the winter, there are plenty of reasons to get out among it too.

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The summer months remain the best time to go island-hopping around Stockholm’s archipelago as well as various west-coast island groups. Backcountry hiking in national parks and swimming in pristine bays is also popular. Do as the locals do and retreat to remote cabins, camp, sail the waterways and indulge in centuries-old Midsummer traditions, including joining a kräftskiva, or crayfish party.

If you’re willing to brave northern Sweden in the winter months, you will be rewarded with some truly unique activities: husky sledding , reindeer safaris, tracking moose or snowmobiling and skiing are all popular at this time of year. If city-slicking is your thing, all Sweden’s major cities have their own versions of a cobbledstoned Gamla stan for strolling around, and enviably efficient transportation, making flitting around town easy. Among the galleries and open spaces, you’ll find ample shopping opportunities for sleek Swedish designs and local handicrafts.

Where to stay

From monochromatic ubermodern hotels to vibrant technicoloured boutique hotels, both Stockholm and Gothenburg offer a slew of memorable lodging options for travellers visiting Sweden. A laid-back Swedish culture deeply intertwined with the great outdoors means you’ll also be bedding down with nature in some way or another — whether it’s the accommodation-meets-art-installation Ice Hotel in Jukkarsjärvi or innovative Treehotel in Harads, both in northern Sweden, or glass cabins and falu-red summer cottages around the west coast. For the ultimate maritime experience, several boat hotels (botels, no less) allow you to sleep in docked vessels and ships lining waterfronts in Sweden’s major cities of Stockholm and Gothenburg.

While Stockholm and Gothenburg are culinary powerhouses when it comes to new Nordic cuisine, locals know to head to the west coast and villages such as Smögen, Grebbestad, Fjällbacka and Ljungskile for some of the best seafood. Here you can join a “shellfish journey”, going in search of west Sweden’s very own Big Five (crayfish, oysters, mussels, lobsters and shrimps) with seasoned fishermen full of salty tales.

Professional aurora chasers converge on Abisko National Park , a couple of kilometres north of the town of Kiruna in northern Sweden. Along with Svalbard , it’s renowned as one of the best parts of the region to see the northern lights. A scientifically proven ‘blue hole’ patch of sky gives Abisko its own microclimate and clear weather, upping your chances of catching the sky-filling phenomenon in action. You can take a chairlift up to the Aurora Sky Station, perched on Mount Nuolja, for the best panoramic views.

If you’re in search of Viking and medieval history while visiting Sweden, the World Heritage town of Visby on the island of Gotland celebrates Medieval Week every August. During this time of year, you’ll find jousting tournaments and stage performances, as well as cosplay storytellers, magicians, jesters, and ‘peasants’ strolling Visby’s narrow cobblestoned lanes wearing medieval costumes.

When to visit

You can’t get a Swede out of Sweden during the perfectly temperate summer months of June-August, while northern Sweden comes alive during the winter months of December-March with northern lights and winter sports.

When is the coldest month in Sweden? February. Consolations include northern lights, winter sports and the longstanding (four centuries and counting) indigenous Sámi market and festival in Jokkmokk, northern Sweden.

Do most Swedes speak English? The more appropriate challenge is finding a Swede who doesn’t speak English.

What’s a popular Swedish dish? Forget Swedish meatballs and potatoes. The quintessential räksmörgås — open-faced shrimp sandwich — is what both locals and travellers visiting Sweden reach for on menus.

Currency Swedish Krona (SEK)

Take me there

Inspired to visit Sweden but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from British Airways and Expedia .

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Where to go

Planning your holiday to Sweden? Explore Sweden and its destinations. From fields and rolling hills in the south, to the archipelagos in west Sweden. Experience the history and culture in the capital of Stockholm or travel north to look for the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland.

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City sundsvall, city kiruna – an arctic city bathed in the northern lights, city åre and östersund – a mountainous twin destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, region västerbotten – a hotspot for unforgettable nature experiences, region gästrikland – a peaceful county by the baltic sea, region swedish lapland – a culture-rich natural wonderland, region medelpad, region norrbotten, region hälsingland – a world of cultural heritage and untouched nature, region ångermanland, region jämtland härjedalen – a twin province with majestic scenery, the best hiking in middle and northern sweden, vildmarksvägen – an epic drive on sweden’s scenic wilderness road, when and where to see the spectacular midnight sun, how to capture the elusive northern lights, top 6 design places to visit in northern sweden, sweden’s smaller cities and towns – the hidden gems you need to know, dog sledding in sweden, 'surströmming' – the fermented herring that swedes love, 11 swedish design items made to be used, swedish food and drink festivals for every taste, middle sweden middle sweden view all, city stockholm – the capital of scandinavia, city uppsala – a historical treasure driving towards a net zero future, region västmanland – magnificent nature and history close to stockholm, region sörmland – a pleasure garden studded with castles, region värmland – a lake-rich haven of natural beauty, region dalarna – a miniature sweden rich in nature and culture, region närke, region uppland – where swedish history comes to life, uppsala – a hotbed of innovation, top 7 design places in stockholm and middle sweden, sample the diverse flavours of uppsala, from cabins to glamping – accommodation in the stockholm archipelago, uppsala & sigtuna, örebro – where history and contemporary culture converge, roslagen – a taste of the good life in the coastal countryside, city city break in stockholm and beyond, southern sweden southern sweden view all, city kalmar – a historical city by the sea and a gateway to öland, city gothenburg – sweden’s second largest city, city visby – a swedish fairytale town on the island of gotland, city malmö – a city of contrasts and an international melting pot, city norrköping – an outdoor haven with a rich cultural heritage, city helsingborg – a fusion of history, innovation and coastal beauty, region östergötland, region dalsland, region bohuslän – a gem on the idyllic west coast of sweden, region västergötland, region west sweden, region halland – a coastal haven for foodies and nature lovers alike, region blekinge – a small county with great archipelago adventures, region gotland – where viking-era history meets unique natural scenery, region skåne – a coastal county steeped in history, region småland – as swedish as it gets, region öland, take a road trip in beautiful skåne and blekinge, city city break in and around malmö, discover the modern art worlds in southern sweden, göta canal – sweden's blue ribbon, city city break in and around gothenburg, nightlife in malmö, top 9 design places to visit in southern sweden, slow shopping or shop till you drop in malmö, hiking in southern sweden – the top trails.

The 12 best experiences Sweden has to offer

Annika Hipple

Dec 12, 2023 • 7 min read

A woman and man laughing together next to a canal in Sweden

Explore the incredible experiences Sweden has to offer with our favorite things to do © Johner Images / Getty Images

Sweden’s attractions are endless. Get ready for unspoiled nature, world-class museums, fascinating history, beautiful cities and towns, vibrant traditions and a creative spirit that makes itself known in everything from science, technology and the arts to the country’s ever-evolving culinary scene. 

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, urban attractions or some combination of both, you’ll find it in Scandinavia’s largest country. These are our favorite things to do in Sweden to help you experience its magic to the fullest.

1. Fall in love with beautiful Stockholm

“Of cities I know in the world, you are the one with it all,” wrote Swedish singer-songwriter Lasse Berghagen in a famous musical love letter to Sweden’s capital, “ Stockholm i mitt hjärta ” (Stockholm in My Heart). Berghagen was right –  Stockholm is a charmer. 

The city has enough museums, historic buildings and other attractions to keep you busy for weeks, but some of its greatest pleasures are the simplest ones, found in its vibrant neighborhoods . Wander the medieval alleys of Gamla Stan , stroll along Strandvägen and the Djurgården Canal, admire the panoramic views from Södermalm , then catch a summer sunset over Lake Mälaren. 

Photographed from behind, a girl in a bikini leaps from a rock into the water in summer near Stockholm

2. Island-hop in the Stockholm archipelago

Some 30,000 islands and skerries make up the scenic Stockholm archipelago , scattered over an area of nearly 1,680 sq km (648 sq mi). If you’ve got limited time, soak up some island vibes at Fjäderholmarna, just a 25-minute boat ride from downtown Stockholm, or take a guided archipelago cruise .

Year-round passenger ferries and speedier summer excursion boats service destinations throughout the region, including Vaxholm , Grinda, Finnhamn, Möja and Sandhamn, which are great day trip spots but also have accommodations if you’d like to stay and explore.

3. Take a hike

Swedes love nature – so much so that the right to enjoy it freely is enshrined in law. No matter where you are, it’s easy to lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trail , whether for an urban hike in Stockholm’s Royal National City Park , a day trip to a rural nature reserve or a multi-day trek on one of Sweden’s many long-distance hiking routes, found in every region of the country. An excellent public transportation network makes even remote trails accessible by bus, train or ferry. The Swedish Tourist Association is a good starting point for hiking suggestions in every corner of the country.

Planning tip:  Though the right to roam is an intrinsic part of Swedish society, there are conditions attached to preserve the landscapes for everyone. Check the relevant rules before setting to ensure a wonderful experience.

4. Cruise the Göta Canal

One of the most ambitious construction projects in Swedish history, the Göta Canal connects the Baltic Sea with the country’s largest lakes, Vänern and Vättern, linking up with the Trollhättan Canal for a full coast-to-coast crossing complete with 66 locks and two aqueducts.

A canal cruise is a delightful way to experience the lush green countryside, quaint villages and other attractions along the route, with itineraries ranging from day trips to multi-day journeys on historic canal boats.

Planning tip:  If you prefer a do-it-yourself cruise, you can rent a boat and travel at your own pace.

5. Explore southern Sweden on a bike

Another great way to experience the Göta Canal is by biking along the towpaths — 87 car-free kilometers (54 miles) in all. Be sure to stop at Berg and Borenshult to watch boats passing through impressive multi-lock staircases.

Further south, Sweden’s three linked cycling routes are perfect for day trips or long-distance journeys. The 274-km (170 miles) Sydostleden trail runs south from Växjö through the fields and forests of Småland and along the coast of eastern Skåne. At Simrishamn, Sydkustleden takes over, continuing 260 km (161 miles) along the south coast past white-sand beaches and historic cities and towns. From Helsingborg , Kattegattleden follows the scenic west coast for 390km (242 miles) all the way to Gothenburg. 

The red train carriage of the Inlandsbanan rolling through grassy fields and wildflowers south of Östersund

6. Ride the rails on Inlandsbanan

For a rail journey through some of Sweden’s wildest and most beautiful scenery, take a ride on Inlandsbanan (the Inland Line). Starting in Mora in Dalarna , the train travels north to Gällivare, about 100 km (62 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, making numerous stops along the way.

Grab the opportunity to visit attractions such as the Arctic Circle, Östersund’s Jamtli local history museum and the Ájtte Mountain and Sámi Museum in Jokkmokk. A wonderful way to see the interior of northern Sweden, the route also provides access to long-distance hiking trails and the potential to spot some of the region’s abundant wildlife. 

7. Search for the Northern Lights 

Sweden’s far north is widely recognized as one of the top places in the world to experience the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), a frequent occurrence between September and March. Few sights can compare to the magic of seeing brilliant waves of green, red, blue and purple dance across the darkened sky, the result of electrically charged solar particles colliding in the Earth’s atmosphere.  

Abisko National Park is renowned as one of the world’s best Northern Lights destinations, thanks to its clear skies, lack of light pollution and position within the auroral oval – a band around the Earth’s magnetic pole where auroras are most likely to form. East of Abisko, Kiruna , Sweden’s northernmost city, also makes a good base with many tour companies offering aurora-seeking excursions, including by skis, snowshoes and dog sleds.

Two sea kayakers paddle in a rocky inlet at sunset

8. Paddle a scenic waterway

Sweden’s long coastline, thousands of lakes and many islands make it an ideal paddling destination. In Stockholm you can rent kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddle boards at various locations including Långholmen , Kungsholmen and Djurgården . Kayak and canoe rentals are also available in other cities including Gothenburg and Malmö.

For something less urban, the Bohuslän coast, Skåne’s rugged Kullaberg peninsula and the High Coast region are all great kayaking destinations, as are the St. Anna archipelago near Söderköping and the islands around Piteå and Luleå in the far north. Sweden’s inland waterways, including roughly 100,000 lakes, also provide endless scope for paddling with equipment rentals and guided tours available throughout the country.

9. Savor the west coast lifestyle

Some people call Sweden’s west coast the “best coast.” While east coasters may quibble, there’s no denying there’s something special here. The region’s undisputed hub is Gothenburg , a lively port city with popular festivals and outstanding restaurants, shopping and attractions.

After a taste of urban pleasures, head north to Bohuslän , an almost impossibly beautiful region of deeply indented rocky coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages that fill with life during the summer months.

Detour:  If you prefer beaches over rocky shores, head south from Gothenburg to Halland, where you’ll find lovely stretches of sand around Varberg, Falkenberg and Halmstad.

10. Eat your way through Sweden

Though perhaps best known internationally for meatballs and pancakes, Sweden has developed an exciting culinary scene that blends classic dishes with international influences, emphasizing sustainability and locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes and vibrant urban market halls, you’ll find a wide range of fantastic places to sample Sweden’s flavors all over the country.

To delve deeper into Swedish food culture, take a seafood safari in Bohuslän, tour the vineyards of Skåne, join an autumn truffle hunt on Gotland , or simply head into the forest to pick blueberries, lingonberries or chanterelle mushrooms, which Swedes call “forest gold.” A guided foraging walk in Swedish Lapland is a perfect way to learn more about edible Swedish nature.

Two friends eating at a campsite in Sweden

11. Road trip through the Swedish countryside

With well-maintained roads, good signage and incredible sights scattered throughout the countryside, Sweden is perfect for a driving vacation. Although major highways will get you from point to point quickly, the great joy of a Swedish road trip is meandering along secondary routes through dense forests and pretty small towns, past sparkling lakes, spectacular coastlines and rolling farmland dotted with red-painted cottages with white trim.

Planning tip:  The downside of driving in Sweden is the steep price of car rentals and fuel, but you can reduce the cost of the latter – as well as your environmental impact – by renting a hybrid or even an electric car. Electric charging stations are available throughout the country; Chargefinder is a good resource.

12. Visit castles, palaces and fortresses

Sweden has hundreds of historic castles, palaces and stately homes concentrated in the country’s southern third. Tour Stockholm’s massive Royal Palace , stroll through the beautiful gardens of lakeside Drottningholm Palace or go back in time at the turreted Renaissance castles of Gripsholm , Vadstena and Kalmar . On Öland, don’t miss the fire-ravaged ruins of 13th-century Borgholms Slott . There are also many interesting smaller castles such as Skokloster , Sofiero and Läckö . 

Various historic fortresses also recall times when Sweden was much less peaceful and secure. For centuries,  Vaxholm Fortress helped defend Stockholm against Danish and Russian attacks. North of Gothenburg, well-preserved Carlstens Fästning , from 1658, occupies a commanding position atop Marstrand island, while 14th-century Bohus Fästning in Kungälv witnessed many significant events before falling into atmospheric ruin.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated December 2023

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Experience daylight at midnight in picturesque Sweden! Cruise on a 19th Century canal boat through the many lochs from Stockholm to Gothenberg, do a wild and remote mountain trek along ‘King’s Trail’ , drive dogsleds, build an igloo or stay in an ice hotel.

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The Kulla Way (Kullaleden) Tour

  • Hiking & Trekking

The Kulla Way (Kullaleden)

5-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided Tour

  • Kayak & Canoe

5-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided

Do The North provided an incredible opportunity to experience true wild camping in the beautiful archipelagos of Saint Anna with absolutely no prior experience required. All we really needed to do prior to the trip was fill in a food order form - anything we choose to buy we paid for at supermarket rates and is all packed and ready to go on our arrival. The selection of food is excellent and of very high quality so we ate very well every night! The evening before our trip we stayed at a basic hostel above Norrkoping train station (booked for us by Thomas). In the morning Thomas picked us up from right outside the hostel and drove us to Saint Anna where we would be kayaking from. Thomas and Sam explained what equipment we had and the basics of navigation. Pretty much everything you could need for the trip was provided - the only things i bought otherwise were clothes, a few toiletries and a camera. All of the equipment was extremely high quality, the tents were some of the best I have ever used - they are incredibly easy to pitch and pack away and can be pitched literally anywhere! After a basic introduction we were let loose into the wild! The next 5 nights were some of the best in my life! 2 of my friends had never kayaked before but it didn't take long to get the hang of it and the kayaks are very stable it is near impossible to tip over. Much of our days were spent kayaking and searching out potential camping spots. Each night we camped on a different island and always had the entire island to ourselves (we didn't even see anyone for the first few days!) It truly is one of the most peaceful places I have ever been, and perfect if you want to escape the 'real world' for a few days. We made camp fires and watched an incredible sunset every night. We even managed to catch some fish (they provide all the equipment for doing that too!) Since there is no light pollution, the stars on a clear night are without a doubt, the best I have ever seen. I've been to desert in Eqypt where the stars don't even compare to this! You can clearly see the galactic arm of the milk way stretching across the entire sky. Sitting under the stars with your mates and a few beers next to a camp fire on a beautiful little island that you have claimed as your own for the night is clearly an experience you won't find much elsewhere. I'd recommend this trip to anyone and will definitely be bringing my girlfriend back in the next couple of years! Highlights: Kupa Klint - definitely worth a visit, this is where most of the pictures I've shown were taken from. We camped here and somehow managed to get up for sunrise at 5.30am, which was definetely worth it. Harstena and Hasko - these are two beautiful little villages that make a nice change to the deserted islands for an afternoon or so. Since we went in off-peak season many of the shops were closed but they are great places to stroll around. We ended up camping in Hasko (requires a small fee to the villagers) and we were even able to fire up our own log burning sauna which was the perfect end to this brilliant holiday! Photos from the trip: [external link removed in moderation]

6-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided Tour

6-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided

Beautiful surroundings, one of the only holidays you are truly in the wild. Amazing experience- something everyone should include on the Bucket list!

Sweden: Land of Lakes and Castles Tour

  • Self-Guided Cycling

Sweden: Land of Lakes and Castles

Sweden Summer Family Adventure Tour

Sweden Summer Family Adventure

Tailor-Made Aurora Safari & Icehotel Trip Tour

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Tailor-Made Aurora Safari & Icehotel Trip

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Wolves, Moose and Beavers in the Forests of Central Sweden Tour

Wolves, Moose and Beavers in the Forests of Central Sweden

Amazing trip, I loved every second from howling with the wolves to watching long legged moose cross the road. Our guide Simon was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable, he made the trip !!

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Swedish Lapland: The Northern Lights Tour

Swedish Lapland: The Northern Lights

An Unforgettable Adventure in Sweden's Lapland I recently had the pleasure of embarking on an unforgettable journey to Lapland in Sweden, all thanks to the remarkable arrangements made by Yes Trips agency. From start to finish, their professionalism and attention to detail were truly impressive. Our experience in Lapland was nothing short of magical. Led by knowledgeable local guides, we ventured into breathtaking landscapes and were treated to mesmerizing displays of the Northern Lights. Whether it was dog sledding across pristine snow or hiking through enchanting forests, every activity was expertly planned and incredibly enjoyable. Moreover, the accommodations provided were cozy and comfortable, and the transportation arrangements were seamless, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of Lapland without any worries. I wholeheartedly recommend Yes Trips to anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure in Sweden's Lapland. Thank you for making this trip an experience of a lifetime!

Tailor-Made Best Private Stockholm Tour Tour

Tailor-Made Best Private Stockholm Tour

Jewels of Scandinavia Tour

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Jewels of Scandinavia

Such a wonderful experience

Explore Berlin to Stockholm Tour

Explore Berlin to Stockholm

It was very well organized, we had a very good experience. We are planning to use Tourradar again next year.

A Taste of Scandinavia Tour

A Taste of Scandinavia

Nikolai was FANTASTIC!!!! He was a great tour leader. The tour took us to many places and he educated us well. However, just a few negative comments. The hotels were not satisfactory ....I am used to better hotels when I travel. Carrying my luggage throughout the tour was very burdensome. I am an older person, and although I am in great shape, I did not want to be responsible for carrying my luggage everywhere. There was an 89 year old man on our trip. He had a real hard time catching up. I usually go on escorted tours where my luggage, and everything else, is handled by the guides, not by me. I loved the places that wer went to and overall I would suggest people take Tourradar and Intrepid if they don't mind doing some of the labor involved.

Early Modern Sweden Tour

Early Modern Sweden

Stockholm City Stay - 3 days Tour

Stockholm City Stay - 3 days

7-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided Tour

7-day Kayak & Wild Camp the Archipelago - self-guided

Loved every minute of this holiday! Its such a unique experience and a perfect way to explore a beautiful country. Really well organised and everything you can think of is provided. Really really good kit especially the tents which were fab! Thomas was great at explaining the trip and so accommodating of our needs. Will have fond memories of singing all day long paddling along and making a cosy camp in the evening with a beer in hand. Loved it!!

Reviews of Sweden Tours

This was a superb self-guided five day kayak/camping trip. The scenery is magnificent. We were novice paddlers and faced challenging conditions on two days (out of five). But the equipment provided was high quality and gave us the confidence to punch the envelope. The instruction and advice was effective and supportive. Such a memorable trip!
Great landscape, great equipment, great organization! I highly recommend the tour ?‍♀️

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A guided tour to Sweden allows you to focus on your trip without worrying about where to stay or how to get around. Having a knowledgeable guide by your side will help you gain deeper insights into the country’s culture, history, and way of life. A guided tour is also a great way to discover the hidden gems of Sweden. Whether you are interested in hiking through stunning natural landscapes, observing the magical Northern Lights, or exploring charming towns and cities, a Sweden-guided trip can help you make the most of your holiday. You will have the freedom of customizing your trip to Sweden to suit your interests, with a whole range of tour options on offer. No matter if you are traveling solo, as a couple or in a group, Sweden guided tour is a perfect way to explore the country. Choose from our curated list of guided tours to Sweden below and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

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Arctic Circle Aurora Adventure Tour

  • Starts Rajamaa, Finland
  • Ends Rajamaa, Finland

Arctic Circle Aurora Adventure

  • Best price guaranteed
  • No booking fees
  • Tour Type Small Group Tour
  • Activities Explorer
  • Accommodation Lodge & Hut
  • Transport Snowmobile
  • Age Range 16-95 yrs
  • Operated in English
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Highlights Of Scandinavia Tour

  • Starts Copenhagen, Denmark
  • Ends Stockholm, Sweden

Highlights of Scandinavia

  • Tour Type Group Tour
  • Activities Sightseeing Tours & Cruise Sightseeing Tours , Cruise , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Art and architecture 'data-more-tripid='21235'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Villa
  • Transport Coach & Ferry
  • Age Range 5-99 yrs
  • Brochure Price: US$ 2,595
  • Special Deal (26%): - US$ 663
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  • May 10 Only 6 seats left
  • May 17 10+ seats left

Essential Scandinavia And Helsinki Tour

  • Ends Helsinki, Finland

Essential Scandinavia and Helsinki

  • Trip customizable
  • Activities City sightseeing
  • Accommodation Hotel
  • Transport Coach, Ferry & Boat
  • Age Range 8-95 yrs
  • Apr 13 10+ seats left
  • Apr 20 10+ seats left

Scenic Scandinavia And Its Fjords Tour

Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords

  • Activities City sightseeing & Art and architecture City sightseeing , Art and architecture , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits 'data-more-tripid='20886'>+2 more
  • Accommodation Hotel & Resort
  • Transport Coach, Ferry, Train & Boat
  • Brochure Price: US$ 5,150
  • Special Deal (15%): - US$ 773
  • Total Price from: US$ 4,377
  • May 05 10+ seats left
  • May 12 10+ seats left

Nordic Adventure Tour

  • Ends Oslo, Norway

Nordic Adventure

  • Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Local culture & Northern lights tours 'data-more-tripid='20941'>+3 more
  • Brochure Price: US$ 6,895
  • Special Deal (13%): - US$ 924
  • Total Price from: US$ 5,971
  • Apr 01 10+ seats left
  • May 27 Only 9 seats left

Absolute Scandinavia And The Baltics Tour

  • Ends Tallinn, Estonia

Absolute Scandinavia and the Baltics

  • Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
  • Transport Boat, Coach & Ferry
  • Apr 17 10+ seats left
  • Apr 24 10+ seats left

Essential Scandinavia Tour

Essential Scandinavia

  • Activities City sightseeing & Museum and gallery visits
  • Mar 23 10+ seats left

Highlights Of Scandinavia Tour

  • Activities City sightseeing & Natural landmarks sightseeing
  • Transport Boat & Ferry

Magic Of Norwegian Fjords And Stockholm Tour

  • Starts Bergen, Norway

Magic of Norwegian Fjords and Stockholm

  • Activities Explorer & Beach
  • Transport Bus, Train, Boat, Coach & Taxi
  • May 30 10+ seats left
  • Jun 13 10+ seats left

Treasures Of Germany And Scandinavia With Helsinki Tour

  • Starts Berlin, Germany

Treasures of Germany and Scandinavia with Helsinki

  • Transport Coach, Ferry, Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
  • Mar 28 10+ seats left
  • Apr 04 10+ seats left

Treasures Of Germany And Scandinavia Tour

  • Ends Copenhagen, Denmark

Treasures of Germany and Scandinavia

  • Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing
  • Transport Ferry, Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle & Coach

Pearls Of Northern Europe Tour

  • Starts Oslo, Norway

Pearls of Northern Europe

  • Transport Bus
  • Age Range 15-99 yrs
  • Mar 24 10+ seats left
  • Apr 14 10+ seats left

Norwegian Fjords Charms And Traditions With Stockholm Tour

Norwegian Fjords Charms And Traditions With Stockholm

  • Transport Coach, Ferry, Train, Private Vehicle, Bus & Taxi
  • Jun 07 10+ seats left
  • Jun 21 10+ seats left

Jewels Of Scandinavia Tour

Jewels of Scandinavia

  • Transport Bus & Ferry

Going to Sweden? Chat with a local travel specialist in Sweden who can help personalize your own escorted trip to Sweden.

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Michael Watlington

Michael D. Watlington is a writer and researcher based in Stockholm, Sweden. He has a deep interest in Swedish culture and history, particularly the period from the mid 19th century to the present day. He has written extensively about Swedish politics, immigration and integration, as well as its culture and customs.

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  4. Travel Brochure Design . Simply Sweden on Behance

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  5. Travel Brochure Design . Simply Sweden on Behance

    sweden travel brochure

  6. Travel Brochure Design . Simply Sweden on Behance

    sweden travel brochure

VIDEO

  1. travel brochure on Andaman and Nicobar

  2. Örebro

  3. Travel Brochure Overview (History 10)

  4. Travel vlog Umeå City Sweden Diaries

  5. Stockholm Winter Walk: Skansen. Traditional Sweden displayed at famous open air museum

  6. What Are the Best Places to Visit in Sweden?

COMMENTS

  1. Sweden's official website for tourism and travel information

    Sweden's smaller cities and towns - the hidden gems you need to know. Region. Gotland - where Viking-era history meets unique natural scenery. The High Coast of Sweden ... scenic views and climate-friendly travel. Getting to and from Sweden's airports. Public holidays in Sweden 2024. Sweden - a dream destination for you and your pet ...

  2. PDF 15 Destination Sweden

    Travel in Sweden is extremely easy, and a bit of advance planning can help smooth over any rough patches. Historically an expensive place to travel, it's now more or less in line with the UK in terms of cost. Still, booking ahead for accommodation and transport within the country will help save money, and

  3. Sweden travel guide

    To travel to Sweden, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements. To enter Sweden (and all Schengen countries) your passport must: have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra ...

  4. Sweden Brochure

    Sweden Brochure. Inspiration from Sweden. The Sweden Holiday Guide is now available. Read it online or download it. You may also order a copy from VisitSweden. Among other articles you can read about: Friendly Urbanity - Stockholm, Göteborg & Malmö. Back to nature - Pleasures for body and soul. Authentic experiences last longer - Sample ...

  5. The Ultimate Sweden Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    *European Travel Alert* Starting sometime around November 2023, US travelers between 18-70 years old will need to fill out an ETIAS visa-waiver form prior to their trip, and pay a €7 ($7.25) entry fee, to travel to European countries within the Schengen Area. It's a quick form, and you will most likely receive instant approval—but it's ...

  6. Sweden Travel Essentials

    More travel information for Sweden. From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Sweden. How to get to Sweden; ... All towns - and some villages - have a tourist office from where you can pick up free town plans and information, brochures, timetables and other literature. Most offices have internet access ...

  7. Sweden Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    4. Visit Gothenburg. Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city. It sees a fraction of tourists compared to Stockholm so come here to beat the crowds, walk along the cobblestone pedestrian streets of Haga, window shop along the Avenyn, and visit Liseberg, one of the biggest theme parks in Scandinavia.

  8. Sweden travel

    Stretch your kronor with these tips for budget travel in Sweden. Feb 25, 2022 • 10 min read. Festivals & Events. The best times to visit Sweden, from Midsummer sun to winter fun. Feb 18, 2022 • 8 min read. COVID-19. Sweden joins Norway and Denmark lifting all COVID restrictions and reopening to travelers.

  9. Sweden Travel Guide

    Here's what you can do to travel to Sweden more responsibly: When traveling to Sweden, choose airlines with carbon offset programs, like Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). Additionally, explore Sweden's efficient public transportation system, which includes electric trains and buses.

  10. Sweden's Experience Guide

    Sweden's Experience Guide. Get inspiration for new experiences in Sweden. Enter a location. Use my current location.

  11. Sweden Tour Packages & Sweden Destination Guide

    Visit Royal Palace at the heart of Stockholm's Old Town. The former residence of His Majesty the King of Sweden is an architectural feat with over 600 rooms, found in the centre of Stockholm. Open to the public daily, you can gaze upon Queen Kristina's silver throne and marvel at the centuries old interiors.

  12. Sweden Travel Guide

    The Rough Guides to Sweden and related travel guides. In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice. Buy US$15.99. Buy US$29.99. Buy US$34.99. Buy US$29.99. Buy US$34.99. Buy US$24.99. Buy US$8.99. Find even more inspiration here. Scandinavia for first-timers: 7 ideas for short breaks.

  13. The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Sweden Itinerary

    Day 6 - Malmo. For those continuing to enjoy Sweden in 7 days, days 6 and 7 of this itinerary will bring you to the city of Malmo. The city of Malmo dates back to the 13th century and is the third largest city in Sweden located about a 3-hour drive or train ride away from Gothenburg. Malmo is located in a unique location, on the southern tip ...

  14. Sweden Vacations 2024 & 2025

    Sweden is a large country, but most visitors choose to visit Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, and Lapland. In stylish Stockholm, you'll find a cosmopolitan capital where cobbled lanes are flanked by brightly painted 17th- and 18th-century buildings but also avant-garde architecture, world-class museums, and a cutting-edge restaurant scene.. Hip Gothenburg's large student population gives it ...

  15. Sweden

    Sweden (Swedish: Sverige) is the largest of the Nordic countries by area and population. Visitors can experience deep forests and many lakes, the heritage from the Viking Age and the 17th-century Swedish Empire, the glamour of the Nobel Prize, and the country's successful pop music scene.Sweden has 270,000 islands with many open to visit through the right to roam.

  16. Sweden travel guide: everything you need to know

    Away from the cities, you'll find medieval fishing towns and mesmerising seascapes along the country's roughly 3,200km coastline, framed by both the Baltic and North Seas. The popular islands ...

  17. Where to go when visiting Sweden

    Explore Sweden and its destinations. From fields and rolling hills in the south, to the archipelagos in west Sweden. Experience the history and culture in the capital of Stockholm or travel north to look for the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland. Northern Lights, Midnight Sun and accommodation close to nature that you cannot find anywhere else.

  18. 12 best things to do in Sweden

    Planning tip: If you prefer a do-it-yourself cruise, you can rent a boat and travel at your own pace. 5. Explore southern Sweden on a bike. Another great way to experience the Göta Canal is by biking along the towpaths — 87 car-free kilometers (54 miles) in all. Be sure to stop at Berg and Borenshult to watch boats passing through impressive multi-lock staircases.

  19. 10 Best Sweden Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Español: Circuitos y viajes por Suecia 2024/2025. Nederlands: Zweden Rondreizen 2024/2025. Browse the best tours in Sweden with 104 reviews visiting places like Stockholm and Gothenburg. All Major Brands.

  20. Sweden Escorted tours and Guided trips

    10 day explorer trip to Oslo, Voss and 8 other destinations traveling through Norway and Sweden. Read More. Tour Type Group Tour. Activities Explorer. Accommodation Hotel. Transport Coach, Ferry, Train, Private Vehicle, Bus & Taxi. Age Range 8-95 yrs. Operated in English. days10 From US$ 2,519 View Tour.

  21. ## Sweden Travel Brochure

    ## Sweden Travel Brochure. December 8, 2023 by Michael Watlington. Sweden, a Scandinavian country in Northern Europe, is a captivating destination for travelers seeking a mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its picturesque cities, pristine beaches, and remarkable attractions, Sweden has something to offer ...

  22. Home

    Go for modern Sweden travel posters. Go for wooden trays. Brand new posters in size A4: Late Summer Evening by Christina Hägerfors 2022 Posters: ... In Sweden you will recognize the land of your dreams - Travel brochure, 1950s. Follow us on facebook ... or follow us on Instagram . @cometosweden WE

  23. Sweden Brochure

    Sweden Brochure; Sweden in South Africa. Sweden's mission. South Africa, Pretoria; Swedish consulates. Cape Town . Telephone number +27 21 200 8199 E-mail [email protected] Granger Bay Court (Corner of Beach and Granger Bay Blvd) North Wing, Office 302 V&A Waterfront Cape Town 8001 Below is a link to the address so you can see where it is on ...