sweden travel spots

The most unmissable places to visit in Sweden

Feb 7, 2022 • 7 min read

Stretching from the Arctic tundra of Lapland to the sandy beaches of Skåne, Europe’s fifth-largest country has something for every interest © Jens Ottoson / Shutterstock

From ABBA to IKEA, Pippi Longstocking to The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo , the Nobel Prizes to Ingmar Bergman, Sweden has given so much to the world – and it's equally generous to travelers. 

Stretching from the Arctic tundra of Lapland to the fertile farmlands and sandy beaches of Skåne, Europe’s fifth-largest country has something for every interest: captivating cities, picturesque small towns, intriguing historic sites and pristine, diverse nature within easy reach, no matter where you find yourself. Here are some of Sweden’s most unmissable destinations.

Delve into history, culture and nature in Stockholm 

Few cities blend history, culture and nature as well as Stockholm . Founded around 1252, Sweden’s capital straddles 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. With scenic views galore, distinct neighborhoods and abundant green space, it’s a wonderful place to simply wander.

Explore the winding cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan , stroll along the waterfront boulevard Strandvägen, take a boat trip into the stunning archipelago or stop for a coffee and pastry at one of the city’s many cafés. For more focused sightseeing, Stockholm has endless attractions to keep you busy, from City Hall and the Royal Palace to top-notch museums such as  Skansen ,  Fotografiska  and  Vasamuseet .

Chic bars, stunning parks and ABBA: Stockholm's neighborhoods have it all

Get to know laidback Gothenburg

Sweden’s second city in terms of size, Göteborg , as it's known locally, has a laidback west-coast vibe that sets it apart. Streetcars rattle past 17th-century canals, lively squares and the broad boulevard Kungsportsavenyn, lined with pubs and restaurants.

Along with verdant parks, diverse walking neighborhoods and great shopping and dining, Göteborg has an excellent city history museum and an art museum with an outstanding collection of paintings by Nordic artists. Ship lovers won’t want to miss Maritiman , where you can climb aboard vessels including a historic lightship, a submarine and a destroyer.

Soak up the coastal scenery in Bohuslän 

Sandwiched between Göteborg and the Norwegian border, Bohuslän is an enticing mix of gorgeous coastal scenery, idyllic small towns and fascinating history.

Explore the impressive 17th-century Carlsten Fortress atop Marstrand island, ponder the mysteries of hundreds of ancient petroglyphs near Tanum, kayak the fjords around the region’s many islands, hike a coastal trail or just relax and soak up the natural beauty and lively summer atmosphere in picturesque waterfront communities, such as Smögen, Fjällbacka and Grebbestad.

Take in traditional arts and handicrafts in Dalarna 

Few places have shaped Sweden's international image as much as Dalarna , a region rich in cultural history and tradition. The area around Lake Siljan is a center for folk music, dance and handicrafts, including iconic wooden Dala horses, which you can see being carved and painted by hand at factories in Nusnäs .

In Falun, Sweden’s most important copper mine, which closed in 1992 after operating for a thousand years, is now a fascinating tourist attraction with underground tours. Other highlights include the homes of artists Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn and composer Hugo Alfvén . 

Get spiritual in Uppsala

Uppsala has been an important center for learning, religion, culture and power for at least 1500 years. At Gamla Uppsala , north of the city center, three large royal burial mounds attest to the site's importance in the 6th century, and its adjacent museum has fascinating exhibits about the area’s history.

In modern Uppsala, stroll along the river Fyrisån, and wander through the parks, squares and cobbled streets around the oldest university and the largest cathedral in the Nordic countries, both dating from the 15th century. Plant lovers won’t want to miss the university’s Linnaean Gardens of Uppsala , comprising a botanical garden, an orangery and a tropical greenhouse , among other attractions.

Tailor a trip to practically any interest in Lapland 

Sweden’s far north, Lapland is a huge area, so where to go depends on your particular interests. Looking for majestic alpine scenery and wilderness hiking? The region has both in spades, including several national parks and one of the world’s great long-distance trails, Kungsleden . 

Hoping to see the Northern Lights? Abisko National Park is particularly renowned for ideal aurora conditions, though you’ll have excellent chances all over northern Sweden in autumn and winter.

Want an unusual hotel experience? Head to the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi or Treehotel in Harads. Want to learn about Scandinavia’s indigenous people? Jokkmokk is something of a Sámi capital, with an interesting cultural museum, Ájtte , and a vibrant annual winter market . 

Hike to great heights in Höga Kusten 

Between Härnösand and Örnsköldsvik, the High Coast has been rising steadily since the end of the last Ice Age, elevating the ancient shoreline as much as 286m (938ft) above the present-day coast. Hiking trails, a chairlift and a via ferrata lead to the top of Skuleberget, which has panoramic views.

Head to Skuleskogen National Park for more hiking trails showcasing the region’s fascinating geology, or explore the lovely islands just offshore, including Ulvön and Trysunda. Further south the E4 highway crosses Sweden’s longest suspension bridge; an overlook at the north end provides views of the impressive structure.

See a different side of Swedish history in Skåne 

Previously a Danish county, Skåne only became a permanent part of Sweden in 1658, and the region’s unique history is evident in its distinct dialect and in the half-timbered houses of its medieval cities and towns, such as Lund and Ystad. Malmö , Sweden’s third-largest city, is an eclectic blend of history, culture and cutting-edge architecture, including the iconic Turning Torso . 

Skåne also has tremendous natural beauty, from the white-sand beaches of Österlen and the jagged coastline of Kullaberg to deep forests and golden agricultural landscapes with vast skies, and its many splendid castles and palaces include Sofiero , known for its beautiful gardens. 

Sweden's most beautiful beaches: from sunbathing near the Arctic Circle to lakeside lounging

Go back in time in Kalmar and shop for glass in Glasriket

An important town during the Middle Ages, Kalmar has one of Sweden’s finest Renaissance castles , as well as a county museum with thousands of astonishingly well-preserved artifacts recovered from the royal ship Kronan, sunk nearby in a 1676 battle.

To the west is  Glasriket , a forested region known as the Kingdom of Crystal, that's home to more than a dozen diverse glassworks, where you can watch artisans work, shop at company stores and perhaps even try your own hand at glassblowing. The most renowned, Kosta Boda , dates from 1742.

Next door, the Kosta Boda Art Hotel has gorgeous art glass everywhere, including a stunning blue-glass bar. For a completely different style, head to Malerås , which produces unique painted and engraved art glass.

Have a medieval adventure in Gotland

A hotly contested hub of Baltic trade for centuries, Sweden’s largest island is dotted with sheep farms, fishing villages, ancient ruins, medieval churches and sea stacks ( raukar ) carved by the elements into fantastical shapes. Charming Visby , the largest town, has one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval cores, a largely intact city wall and an excellent museum tracing the island’s history.

A short free ferry ride from Gotland’s northeastern tip lies stunning, windswept Fårö, beloved by director Ingmar Bergman . Off Gotland’s west coast, the island of Stora Karlsö is famous for its huge seabird colonies.

Get outside in Öland 

Just a bridge away from Kalmar, the long, narrow island of Öland is a world apart in terms of landscape and nature. Southern Öland has starkly beautiful scenery, with stone walls, wildflowers, windmills and rocky pastures. In the north lie Böda Sand, a spectacular, hugely popular beach, and Trollskogen , a magical forest with pine trees twisted by the elements into fantastical shapes.

Two scenic lighthouses, Långe Erik and  Långe Jan , punctuate the island’s northern and southern tips respectively. Other highlights include the impressive ruins of 17th-century Borgholms Castle and the lush park at Solliden Palace , the royal family’s summer home. Öland is also one of Sweden’s top birdwatching destinations, with several nature reserves that attract both resident and migratory species.

You might also like: The most unmissable experiences in stunning Stockholm When is the best time to visit Stockholm? The best things you can do for free (and nearly free) in Stockholm

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Lura Seavey Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With its rich history and varied landscapes, Sweden is a traveler's paradise and a photographer's dream. If you love outdoor attractions, it's certainly hard to beat. The air and water are crystal clean, and there are thousands of acres of unspoiled forests and majestic lakes to explore, not to mention vast archipelagos along its coasts.

The roads and public transport are excellent; the citizens are invariably friendly and helpful; and in recent years, Swedish cuisine has undergone what can only be described as a revolution. Throw in a mind-boggling history, from notorious Viking invaders to royal dynasties and imperial intrigue, and one thing is certain: you'll never be bored.

Sweden's tourist attractions range from opulent palaces and ancient towns to vast Arctic landscapes and the famed Ice Hotel. There are so many things to do that you'll want to allow plenty of time to enjoy all its outdoor adventures and historic treasures.

To help you pinpoint the best places to visit in this much-loved Scandinavian country, we've pulled together our list of the top attractions in Sweden.

1. Gamla Stan, Stockholm

2. vasa museum, stockholm, 3. drottningholm palace, lovö, 4. the göta canal, gothenburg to stockholm, 5. kiruna and the ice hotel, lapland, 6. skansen and djurgården, stockholm, 7. visby, gotland, 8. stockholm city hall, 9. liseberg theme park, gothenburg, 10. kärnan & the fredriksdal open-air museum, helsingborg, 11. oresund bridge, malmö, 12. domkyrka (uppsala cathedral), uppsala, 13. sigtuna, 14. stockholm archipelago, stromma boat tours, 15. abisko national park, lapland, 16. lund cathedral, 17. abba the museum, map of tourist attractions in sweden.

Stockholm's Old Town, known as Gamla Stan, is a small concentrated area where the city began in the middle of the 13th century.

Much of the medieval enclave remains, although in typical Scandinavian style, it is freshly brushed and painted regularly. Its charm is in the architecture along its narrow stone-paved lanes and cobbled streets around its squares, especially the main one, Stortorget , surrounded by old merchants' houses.

In this neighborhood, along with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafés, you'll find the Nobel Museum , the Post Museum , the Royal Coin Cabinet , and several churches. It's also a good area to stay if you can find suitable accommodations, with options including luxury boutique hotels, guesthouses, and even affordable inns and hostels.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Stockholm

The Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet) in Stockholm is Sweden's most popular museum, attracting around a million visitors annually. The museum caters to tourists of all nationalities, and English-language guided tours and audio guides are available.

A visit to the Vasa , which houses 10 separate exhibitions and a further four museum ships, is a day out in itself. In 1628, the pride of the Swedish Imperial fleet, the 64-gun warship Vasa , sank on its maiden voyage. The ship lay below the icy waters for more than three centuries until, in 1961, an incredibly ambitious salvage operation took place. Now, visitors from across the world come to see this fascinating time capsule.

A shop and a restaurant are located on-site for those wanting to make a full day of it.

Another Stockholm museum worth visiting is Fotografiska , an innovative gallery of changing exhibits celebrating the art of photography. It is also known for its entertainment venue and restaurant, which features sustainably grown organic produce. The museum has been so successful that there is also a newer branch of this museum in New York City .

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21, Stockholm

Fairy-tale Drottningholm Palace (Drottningholms slott) , on the island of Lovö, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies about 11 kilometers west of Stockholm city center (45 minutes by ferry), making this an excellent day trip from Stockholm . Dating from the 17th century, the palace is now the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family.

In the picturesque terraced park are bronze sculptures from Bohemia and Denmark, brought back as trophies of war. Be sure to take in the Chinese Pavilion, which dates from the late 1700s. The 18th-century Palace Theatre (Drottningholms Slottsteater ) is still used for performances during the summer months. In the Theatre Museum, you can see period stage costumes and stage scenery.

Guided tours are available (in English), and a variety of fun programs and workshops are available for kids and adults alike.

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm

Often described as Sweden's greatest feat of engineering, the Göta Canal (Göta kanal) dates from the early 19th century and is 190 kilometers in length. It's now one of the country's premier tourist attractions and offers a unique perspective on Sweden's heartland.

In addition, by connecting with lakes Vänern and Vättern and the Trollhätte Canal , it forms part of a water link all the way from Stockholm, in the northeast, to Gothenburg, in the southwest.

Featuring 47 bridges and 58 locks the canal stretches from Sjötorp at Lake Vänern to Söderköping on the Baltic Sea. There's a choice of passenger cruise vessels or you can hire a boat and experience the canal in your own way.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gothenburg

Sharing the same latitude as central Greenland, Kiruna in Lapland is Sweden's northernmost town. It's also the chief town of the largest commune in the country, which borders both Norway and Finland. The midnight sun is visible here from mid-May to mid-July.

Originally a Lapp settlement, the town began to develop when the mining of iron ore started around 1900. Incredibly, due to subsidence caused by mining, the entire city is being slowly moved northwest to the foot of the Luossavaara Mountain.

The world's first-ever Ice Hotel at Jukkasjärvi is about 17 kilometers outside the city. The ICEHOTEL , with its stunning rooms and furnishings, is re-created each year in a new design, built from ice in the river Torne.

In the summer, this is a center for river rafting, stand up paddleboarding, fishing, and canoeing. Sweden's highest mountain, Kebnekaise , is 90 kilometers west of Kiruna. Abisko National Park is located 95 kilometers northwest, where the Lapland Railroad runs west to Narvik on the Norwegian coast.

Address: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi

Skansen , the world's oldest open-air museum (and one of the world's largest), is a historic village made up of houses and farmsteads from all over Sweden. Together, these impressively preserved buildings represent both rural and urban culture at various periods from 1720 to the 1960s.

Gathered here are churches, schoolhouses, manor houses, shops, mills, workers' homes, artisan's shops (including a book bindery, print shop, shoemaker, tinsmith, comb maker, and glassworks), a bakery, a funicular railroad, a Sami camp with reindeer, and a number of complete farmsteads.

These homes, farms, and workshops are inhabited by costumed interpreters who carry on the everyday work, demonstrating the crafts and skills as well as doing household and farm tasks. A zoo includes animals native to Sweden, as well as sections for exotic animals and a children's zoo.

Skansen is located in the huge urban Djurgården Park, a favorite place for locals, especially in the summer. Throughout are traditional cafés, restaurants, snack bars, and even hotels. Canoe and bicycle hire are also available if you're feeling energetic. You will also find Abba the Museum here, along with the Gröna Lund amusement park.

To get here, you can catch a ferry from Gamla Stan or Slussen or take a tram or bus from Norrmalmstorg. Alternatively, the park is a pleasant 15-minute walk from the city center. Stop by the Djurgården Visitors' Center for more information.

Address: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm

Steeped in medieval history and brimming with ruined churches, the rose-entwined, walled town of Visby, on the island of Gotland , is a huge draw for visitors from around the world.

Quaint cobblestone streets snake about the town, and when exploring, it's all too easy to lose your sense of being in the modern world. Adorned with stepped gables, many medieval trading houses remain, as well as some timber buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Clearly, Visby's reputation as 'the pearl of the Baltic' and UNESCO World Heritage Site status are both well deserved. A self-guided or guided sightseeing tour of the magnificent walls, which date back some 700 years, is a must. Built into the structure are some 44 defensive towers, and the walls still bear the scars of attack in the form of two breaches.

Direct flights are available from Stockholm and several other Swedish cities, as well as excellent ferry links.

One of Sweden's most famous buildings, Stockholm City Hall (Stockholms stadshus) was built between 1911 and 1923, using an astonishing eight million bricks. It is considered one of the finest examples of National Romanticism, designed by the architect Ragnar Östberg. The 106-meter-tall tower is topped by three crowns.

A very informative tour recounts some of its history, as well as information about the Nobel Prize, which is presented here each year. On the tour, you'll see the Blå Hallen, the Blue Hall, where the Nobel dinner is held, and the Gyllene Salen, the Golden Hall, lined by 18 million gold mosaic tiles.

Those who want to travel even farther back in history can visit the Royal Palace ( Sveriges Kungahus ), located on Queen's Island ( Drottningholm ). After a scenic ferry ride, tourists can explore this 18 th -century Baroque palace, which has more than 600 rooms. It is also home to several museums, including the Tre Kronor (Three Crowns) Museum , the Museum of Antiquities , the Armoury , and the Treasury . Be sure to time your visit to catch the daily changing of the guard.

Address: Hantverkargatan 1, Stockholm

Liseberg is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden, and each year, the park lures more than three million visitors. It has a huge range of attractions, from children's carousels and a fairy-tale castle to adrenalin-pumping rides for speed demons, bumper cars, and four roller coasters.

The park stages concerts in summer, too, and it's a real favorite with both Swedish families and visitors from abroad. At Christmas, the park hosts an excellent market. There are plenty of places to eat and beautiful flowers in bloom during the summer. For the best views in Gothenburg take a ride on the Big Wheel.

Address: Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Gothenburg

Located across the Oresund strait from Denmark's Helsingor (Elsinore), the town of Helsingborg is full of historic sites.

Its most prominent feature and famous landmark is a massive brick tower called Kärnan (The Kernel) , originally built in the 14 th century as a lookout turret for the town's fortress. It stands at the head of the market square ( Stortorget ), looming 35 meters above. Ambitious tourists can climb its 190 steps to get stunning views of the town below, as well as the Oresund Bridge and Denmark .

After exploring the city's historic center, head to the Fredriksdal Open-Air Museum & Botanical Garden (Friluftsmuseum) for an authentic look at Swedish daily life in centuries past. In addition to visiting the living history at a working Skåne farm, visitors can tour the Fredriksdal Mansion , a beautiful Botanic Garden , and visit the Grafiska Print Museum and a Music Museum.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helsingborg

From Malmö city center, a 15-minute drive takes visitors to the magnificent Oresund Bridge. Famous throughout the world since opening in 1999 and several decades in the planning, the structure has gained further notoriety through the hit Danish/Swedish TV drama 'The Bridge."

This incredible engineering feat now links Sweden to Denmark, and in turn, the continent of Europe. The bridge is both rail and road, and on the Danish side, merges into a tunnel so as not to impact aircraft at Copenhagen airport.

Take a trip across the bridge and through the tunnel to neighboring Denmark, and if you like, spend some time exploring the attractions of Copenhagen .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Malmö

The Uppsala Cathedral is the crowning jewel of this city, originally built around 1270. Over the centuries, it has acquired additions, each era leaving its own influence. Its most striking exterior features are neo-Gothic spires added in the late 19 th century, as well as stained-glass windows from the same remodel period.

Inside, take note of the details in the Baroque pulpit, which was carved in 1707, and be sure to visit the north tower's Silver Chamber, home to a gold brocade robe worn by Queen Margaret (circa 1400), as well as the final resting place of King Eric IX (St. Eric) whose rule ended in 1160.

Uppsala's medieval university, Uppsala Universitet, operates a museum (Gustavianum) , which sits just across from the cathedral. It houses a wide variety of artifacts, ranging from Viking weapons and jewelry to Egyptian relics, including several mummies. It also has exhibits about Sweden's cultural history and an art collection.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Uppsala

Famous as being Sweden's first-ever town and founded in 980 CE, the last century of the Viking era, the idyllic village of Sigtuna nestles alongside Lake Mälaren in the lush green landscape of Uppland, north of Stockholm. Sigtuna's amazing history is to be found in the medieval churches, ruins, rune stones, and buildings that remain to this day.

Along Storgatan, which has stood for more than a thousand years, are clusters of interesting little boutique shops selling fashion, designer items, and handicrafts. By car, Sigtuna is just 45 minutes from Stockholm, 30 minutes from the medieval university town of Uppsala, and just 20 minutes from Arlanda airport.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Uppsala

Stockholm is often referred to as the "Venice of the North." Water is everywhere, and around 30,000 islands lie in Stockholm's wondrous archipelago (skärgården). Distinctive red and yellow timber summerhouses occupy some islands, while others remain totally unspoiled.

A trip on the water, either in and around the city or to one of the islands, should be top on your list, whatever time of year you visit (cruises operate year-round). Many tours include lunch or dinner, and all give a unique vantage point of the city. Hop-on, hop-off options are available, too. When downtown, the distinctive Stromma boats are impossible to miss.

In summer, this is the Land of the Midnight Sun with 24-hour daylight lasting several weeks. Abisko National Park is some 77 square kilometers in size and is famous for its pristine natural beauty and Nordic wildlife. It's a great place to visit for Scandinavian winter adventures and long summer hikes.

Abisko is situated approximately 100 kilometers west of the town of Kiruna and is more than 200 kilometers inside the Arctic Circle within the auroral oval, an area that is considered to be one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights .

Regular flights operate to Kiruna from Stockholm, and bus, train, or taxi transfers are available to the park. Weather permitting, make sure you visit the spectacular Aurora Sky Station .

This is Sweden's most visited cathedral and one of the most visited sites in the southern province of Skåne. You'll understand why when you stand in front of the imposing Roman structure with its magnificent twin towers. Lund Cathedral (Lunds domkyrka) was founded around 1080 by the Danish King Canute IV and is the oldest and finest Romanesque church in Sweden.

The present building dates from the 12th century. Over the altar is a magnificent 14th-century carved reredos, the work of a north German master.

The crypt is the oldest part of the cathedral. Its roof is borne on carved stone pillars, with figures that are traditionally believed to represent a mythical giant, Finn, who is said to have built the cathedral.

In the aisle is the famous 14th-century astronomical clock with figures of the Three Kings, which emerge twice daily at noon and 3pm on weekdays and 1pm and 3pm on Sundays.

Address: Kyrkogatan 6, Lund

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Copenhagen

If you simply enjoy the upbeat and carefree tones of Mama Mia or are an Adam-Whitely-level super-fan, the ABBA The Museum in Stockholm is an exciting place to visit.

Exhibits begin with a look at the personal histories of each member, complete with letters, costumes, and instruments, most of which are displayed in re-creations of the actual settings they frequented.

One of the neatest exhibits is the museum's replica of the Polar Studio, complete with almost entirely original equipment, where you can feel, see, and hear what it was like to be in the studio with them. Tourists can also see a full range of ABBA memorabilia, from trinkets to gold record awards.

If you really want to be immersed in the experience, take advantage of the museum's virtual performance space, where you can "try on" costumes and even perform onstage alongside holograms of Agnetha, Benny, Björn, and Frida.

Address: Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

More on Sweden

155 Places to visit in Sweden

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

Categories Sweden

Home / Europe / Sweden / 155 Places to visit in Sweden

In the last couple of years, I have traveled wide and far throughout Sweden, and to make things easier for future visitors, I have made this list of 155 places to visit in Sweden.

The list is divided into the three historical lands of Sweden, Norrland, Svealand, and Götaland. After each attraction, the region where it’s located is displayed next to the title.

Google Maps is usually very good to use while traveling around Sweden, as long as you have offline maps or internet access. Just enter the names of these places into Google Maps, and you will find them easily.

Places to visit in northern Sweden (Norrland)

Below, you will find attractions from different parts of Norrland where the following regions are included: Gästrikland, Hälsingland, Härjedalen, Jämtland, Medelpad, Ångermanland, Västerbotten, Norrbotten, and Lappland.

Själandsklinten (Ångermanland)

Själandsklinten is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden if you ask me. Sitting there at the top with endless views of the Swedish High Coast is like being in a real-life movie.

It’s located in Nordingrå, and the hike starts from “Gårdsbutiken i Höga Kusten”. It is a short but steep walk to reach the top from there.

Slåttdalsskrevan (Ångermanland)

Slåttdalsskrevan is a 200-meter-long and 7-meter-wide crevasse through Slåttdalsberget in Skuleskogen National Park.

It’s a mesmerizing place that really makes you feel small when gazing up at the cliff walls that are 30 meters tall.

Access to Slåttdalsskrevan is temporarily closed, but you can still take a picture and reach the end of the crevasse from both directions.

Rock carvings by Nämforsen (Ångermanland)

Nämforsen has one of Northern Europe’s largest rock carving areas with over 2,500 figures. It’s a lovely natural area to visit. Every year, the Urkult music festival is also held on the site, which then turns the site into a real folk festival.

Högakustenbron (Ångermanland)

The High Coast Bridge is a well-known landmark in Sweden that many have passed through the years since its inauguration. The bridge has a length of 1,800 meters and was inspired by the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

Högbondens fyr (Ångermanland)

Högbonden’s lighthouse is an old lighthouse that has been turned into a unique accommodation on the High Coast where you can spend the night in the old lighthouse keeper’s residence. It is the second-highest lighthouse in Sweden and the view from here is incredible.

Härnösands bilmuseum (Ångermanland)

The city of Härnösand is home to the largest car museum in Sweden with an impressive collection of vehicles from 1899 to 1990. There are over 220 cars on display in different rooms.

If you are interested in cars and other motor vehicles, you shouldn’t miss making a stop at Härnösands bilmuseum!

Market of Jokkmokk (Lappland)

Jokkmokk’s market is famous all over Sweden and is organized annually from the first Thursday to Saturday in February. In Jokkmokk you can also visit the main museum for Sami culture & history.

Tjuonavagge/Lapponian gate (Lappland)

Tjuonavagge, also known as the Lapponian gate, is a well-known attraction in Lapland that has been depicted countless times. It offers a beautiful sight all year round.

Rapadalen (Lappland)

Rapadalen is a beautiful valley in Sarek National Park. A magnificent wilderness experience awaits you here, including Skierfeklippan, where you get an incredible view of the valley.

Vaisaluokta kåtakyrka (Lappland)

Vaisaluokta church is built in the traditional Northern Sami style. It’s a charming little Sami church, which is located in the Sirge’s Sami village.

Kebnekaise (Lappland)

Sweden’s highest mountain is not only standing tall but it’s also one of the most spectacular places in Sweden. Of course, there are higher mountains to climb around the world, but there is something special about Kebnekaise!

Karesuando church (Lappland)

The church in Karesuando is a beautiful wooden church from 1905 which is also the northernmost church in Sweden.

Treriksröset (Lappland)

As the name suggests. Three kingdoms meet here, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Treriksröset is a popular attraction in Sweden that is quite fun to visit since you actually can travel between three countries in less than 1 minute.

Ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi (Lappland)

The Ice Hotel is one of the most famous places in Sweden and rightly so. It is a unique hotel since it’s built from ice every year. But make sure to book your stay in advance since it’s very popular, especially among international guests.

Kiruna kyrka (Lappland)

The church of Kiruna is one of the largest wooden buildings in Sweden. It was inaugurated in 1912 and its unique architecture has taken inspiration from the Norwegian stave churches.

Abiskojåkka canyon (Lappland)

A beautiful canyon in Abisko National Park where the mountain river Abiskojåkka rushes past all year round. From Naturum there is a path that takes visitors to the canyon. The trail is relatively easy to hike and has a distance of 1.2 kilometers one-way.

Gammelstad church town in Luleå (Norrbotten)

The city of Luleå was founded here at first, and that is why this place is named “Gammelstaden” which can be translated as the old town. Gammelstaden church town is listed as a world heritage site by Unesco, and it’s one of the most visited attractions in the region of Norrbotten.

You can join a guided tour while visiting for more information. There are also various events throughout the year, especially in conjunction with holidays in Sweden.

Treehotel (Norrbotten)

Treehotel is yet another unique hotel in Norrland. Visitors can come here and stay in a luxurious tree cabin by the treetops while at the same time having the luxuries of a standard hotel room.

Storforsen (Norrbotten)

Storforsen is one of Europe’s largest rapids with an enormous amount of gushing water all year round. A powerful nature experience in the municipality of Älvsbyn where you get to see the forces of Mother Nature up close.

Rödbergsfortet (Norrbotten)

For a long time, Rödbergsfortet was one of the most secret places in Sweden. This old fortress is part of the Boden fortress, which was built to withstand and protect this part of Sweden from invasions. Nowadays, visitors are welcome to visit and learn more about its function and what life was like for soldiers stationed here.

Kukkolaforsen (Norrbotten)

Kukkolaforsen is located on the border between Sweden and Finland in Tornedalen. During summer, it is popular to catch whitefish with a landing net from the river.

Jämtlandstriangeln

The Jämtland Triangle is a classic hiking trail in Sweden that has been designated as a signature trail by the Swedish Tourist Association. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or experienced, this is a pleasant hiking experience in Jämtland.

In total, the hiking trail is 47 kilometers, and Sylarna and Syltoppen are some of the places you will pass along the way. The first part goes from Storulvån to Sylarna. From there you walk onwards to Blåhammaren.

Fettjeåfallet (Jämtland)

Fettjeåfallet is an impressive waterfall with a height of 60 meters. It is located by Klövsjö and can be reached via a shorter hiking trail that is about 2 kilometers long.

Borgvattnet’s vicarage (Jämtland)

The old vicarage in Borgvattnet is said to be one of the most haunted houses in Sweden. It’s possible to stay overnight and you can even get access to paranormal measuring tools.

This old clergy house has been noticed internationally as well, by the likes of the New York Times among others, which has listed the vicarage of Borgvattnet as one of the most haunted places in the world.

Hällingsåfallet (Jämtland)

Hällingsåfallet thunders down an 800-meter-long canyon from a height of 42 meters. There is constant fog around the waterfall, which brings an everlasting humidity that allows rare lichens and mosses to thrive here.

Tännforsen (Jämtland)

Tännforsen is one of Sweden’s largest waterfalls with a width of 60 meters and a drop height of 37 meters. It is a popular attraction in Jämtland, located 20 minutes west of Åre.

Ristafallet (Jämtland)

Ristafallet is another impressive waterfall located near Åre. This waterfall is also known from the film Ronja Rövardotter, where Ristafallet portrayed Glupafallet.

Thailändska paviljongen (Jämtland)

The Thai pavilion is a unique place to visit in Sweden. The monument was built in honor and memory of the Thai King Chulalongkorn, also known as King Rama V.

He visited this place in Utanede and therefore the Thai pavilion has been built right here in Ragunda municipality. The monument is the only one of its kind outside of Thailand.

Myskoxcentrum (Härjedalen)

Muskoxcentrum is a non-profit organization in Härjedalen that protects the wild muskox tribe in Sweden. Here you can get close to this prehistoric animal in its natural environment at a reasonable distance.

The muskox center does a fantastic job of preserving the muskox by spreading knowledge and raising calves which are then released into the wild.

Sångbäcksfallet (Härjedalen)

Sångbäckfallet is easily reached after a short walk down stairs that lead one further down to the waterfall from the parking lot by the road. The waterfall is located just outside Vemdalen and is a bit of a hidden gem in Härjedalen.

Flatruet (Härjedalen)

The Flatruet road goes over the mountain Flatruet in Härjedalen and is the highest public road in Sweden. The height of the road reaches a maximum of 975 meters above sea level. Along the way, you get wide views of the mountains and a great chance to see reindeer.

Café Cineast (Härjedalen)

Café Cineast is a unique museum in Sveg where you can take part in a journey through time in the world of film. It is not only a café but also a film museum with old cinema posters and objects. Music from famous films can be heard from the speakers.

Sonfjällets nationalpark (Härjedalen)

Sonfjällets National Park is a popular destination in Härjedalen with lovely hiking trails that offer a sense of being in the wilderness as well as a wide biological diversity.

The national park is also an important stronghold for the Swedish bear tribe. The highest peak on Sonfjället reaches 1278 meters above sea level.

Bonnstan (Västerbotten)

Bonnstan is a historical attraction in Skellefteå. An old church town from the 17th century with a total of 116 church cottages that have been preserved since the great fire in the 19th century.

Idunn Wines (Västerbotten)

In Norsjö you can visit Idunn Wines, which is a unique winery that makes wine from blueberries and lingonberries. Join a guided wine-tasting tour where you get to taste and learn more about these special wines.

Lövånger kyrkstad (Västerbotten)

Lövånger church town is one of Sweden’s oldest church towns that has been preserved. A cultural treasure in Västerbotten that really comes to life during the summer and during church holidays. Visitors can rent a church cottage for overnight stays all year round.

Hälsingegårdar (Hälsingland)

7 old farms in Hälsingland (Hälsingegårdar) have received UNESCO World Heritage status. Around the landscape, however, there are thousands of preserved farms. These seven farms are Bommars, Erik-Anders, Fågelsjö Gammelgård, Gästgivars, Jon-Lars, Kristofers and Pallars.

Something that pretty much all “Hälsingegårdar” have in common is that they are incredibly beautiful with splendid decorations.

Avholmsberget (Hälsingland)

Avholmsberget is located above the lake called Norra Dellen. Here you get one of Hälsingland’s finest views. During the summer months, there is also a restaurant at the top.

Enåsens gruva (Hälsingland)

Enåsen’s mine is an old gold mine in Ljusdal municipality that closed in 1991. Nowadays, the place has become a tourist attraction who come here for its natural beauty.

However, it is not recommended to bathe or come into contact with the water as it contains metals that can potentially harmful. But it is a very beautiful place to see with your own eyes!

Orbaden Spa & Resort (Hälsingland)

On Hälsingland’s Riviera, located in Vallsta, there is this lovely spa hotel named Orbaden Spa & Resort, which has been named one of the best spa resorts in Sweden. From the infinity pool, you get a wonderful view and nearby there is also a beach where you can go swimming.

Oscarsborg (Hälsingland)

Oscarsborg is a 23-meter-high observation tower in Söderhamn that resembles a fortress. The tower is a popular attraction in Söderhamn from where you get a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape.

Trolska skogen (Hälsingland)

Trolska Skogen is located by the fishing village of Mellanfjärden. A living fairytale world awaits here where you can meet elves, trolls, witches, and other beings along the walk in the forest.

Trolska Skogen offers a theater experience to increase the children’s interest in culture and nature. A fun place to visit in Hälsingland when traveling with children.

Wij Gardens (Gästrikland)

Wij Gardens is a beautiful display garden in Ockelbo. There is also the option of staying overnight, and Wij Trädgårdskök serves well-prepared food made with organic ingredients from the garden. If you like flowers, cultivation, and plants, this is a lovely excursion to make in the region of Gästrikland.

Gävlebocken (Gästrikland)

The goat of Gävle (Gävlebocken) is a classic attraction in Sweden that is built up every year before Christmas. A tradition that goes back to 1966. In central Gävle, you can see the world’s largest straw goat in December, as long as it has not been burnt down.

Forsbacka bruk (Gästrikland)

The Forsbacka factory is located just outside Sandviken and is one of Sweden’s largest industrial monuments. Take a guided tour of the old ironworks and learn more about the iron handling that has been carried out here since the 16th century.

S:t Olavsleden (Medelpad)

St. Olavsleden is the northernmost pilgrimage route in the world. The entire trail is 58 Swedish miles and runs from Selånger in Medelpad to Trondheim in Norway, which in the past was known as Nidaros.

Merlo castle (Medelpad)

Villa Merlo, also known as Merlo Castle is a grand building that was built in the 19th century by Fredrik Bûnsow, who was a very wealthy man.

Merlo Castle is located just outside Timrå. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the park where you can see the castle from the outside.

Vildmarksvägen (Wilderness Road)

The Wilderness Road is a well-known attraction in Sweden that crosses the plateau of Stekenjokk between Jämtland and Lapland. The road is open to traffic between June 6 and October 15. The entire route is 500 km long.

Along the Wilderness Road, you pass sights such as Trappstegsforsen, bunkers from the Second World War, Hällingsåfallet, Brakkåfallet, Korallgrottan, Gaustafallet, Dimforsen and Fatmomakke church town.

Seeing the Northern Lights with your own eyes is a magical experience. You’ll never forget the first time you see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

It is one of nature’s wonders and undoubtedly one of our best sights in Sweden. Abisko is one of the best places in Sweden to see the Northern Lights, but generally, it is visible throughout the northern parts of the country during the winter months.

Attractions in Svealand

Below you can see places to visit in Sweden that are located in the Svealand region, which consists of the following regions: Dalarna, Närke, Södermanland, Uppland, Värmland, and Västmanland.

If you’re interested in the Viking era, Birka is one of the best places to visit in Sweden. It was an important site of trade during that period, and the area is quite well-preserved.

During the summer months, you can, among other things, hop on a Viking boat and go to Viking markets as well as watch shows where scenes from old Viking battles are recreated.

Dalhalla (Dalarna)

Dalhalla is a theater located inside an old limestone quarry. Every year, various concerts and shows are performed here in this unique setting.

Tomteland (Dalarna)

Tomteland is an amusement park in Dalarna located on Gesundaberget outside Mora. Here, one can visit several different fairytale worlds that have been built for visitors. A fun and exciting experience for the whole family where you can also meet Santa.

World’s biggest Dala horse (Dalarna)

In Avesta, you can see the world’s largest Dala horse. An iconic attraction in Sweden that many bypassers have stopped by to take a picture over the years. The Dala horse is 13 meters high and weighs 67 tonnes. Right now it stands where highways 70 and 68 meet in Avesta.

Njupeskär (Dalarna)

Njupeskär is Sweden’s highest waterfall and one of the best natural attractions to visit in Sweden. The entire waterfall is 125 meters long, of which the cliff itself is approximately 93 meters straight down. A breathtaking sight!

Nipfjället (Dalarna)

Nipfjället is an easily accessible mountain in Idre where it is possible to drive almost all the way up to the top by car. From the summer parking, it is only a short walk up to the top where you get fantastic views.

On the way up to the summer parking lot, one will also pass Trollvägen, where you can experience a unique phenomenon that can only be recreated in a limited number of places around the world.

Öster Silvbergs gruva (Dalarna)

Öster Silvberg’s mine is located just outside Säter. It is one of Sweden’s oldest mines where silver was previously mined. The mine is filled with water and no longer active. What attracts visitors today is instead the turquoise color of the water.

During the summer, many people come here to swim. However, it is not recommended to swim here due to health reasons, but it is still a beautiful place to visit.

Falu gruva (Dalarna)

Falu copper mine has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 2001. Visitors are welcome to take a guided tour down into the mine, 67 meters underground. Copper has been mined here for over 1,000 years.

Avesta Visentpark (Dalarna)

The Wisent Park in Avesta is one of Europe’s most important breeding facilities. Visitors have the opportunity to meet this prehistoric animal at a reasonable distance and at the same time support the important work of reintroducing European bison.

So far, Avesta Wisent Park has contributed by reintroducing six bison into the wild in Romania, and more bison are on their way to be reintroduced back into their natural habitat.

Anundshög (Västmanland)

Anundshög is located just outside Västerås and here, you can visit Sweden’s largest burial mound. Storhögen is nine meters high and in the same ancient monument area, there are also stone ships and rune stones to take a closer look at.

Kokpunkten Actionbad (Västmanland)

Kokpunkten is an action water park in Västerås with water slides, stream channels, and pools. A fun and fast-paced bathing experience awaits here for the whole family.

Kolarbyn (Västmanland)

Kolarbyn markets itself as Sweden’s most primitive hostel. A living experience characterized by silence and wilderness where you spend the night in the middle of the forest in a “kolarkoja”, without electricity or tap water.

Sala Silver mine (Västmanland)

Silver was mined in and around Sala as early as the 15th century. Today, there is none left in operation, but you can still visit the Sala Silver Mine and go underground. If you want to stay longer, you can also spend the night down in the mine in a hotel room.

Trästaden Nora (Västmanland)

Nora is a charming wooden town in Bergslagen with wooden buildings preserved from the 18th and 19th centuries. Here you can, among other things, go for a ride on an old steam train that runs on the oldest railway in Sweden.

Miniature Kingdom (Västmanland)

Miniature Kingdom is a unique place to visit in Sweden, located in Kungsör where a miniature world has been built with inspiration from various environments in Sweden.

In the miniature world, trains, trucks, and buses roll through different parts of Norrland, Stockholm, Västerås, Eskilstuna, and Örebro. A fun destination for the whole family.

Strömsholm Castle (Västmanland)

This magnificent baroque castle with an 18th-century interior in Gustavian style is located just outside Västerås. It is one of the royal castles and it is open daily for visitors who join a guided tour from June to September.

Ingbo källor (Uppland)

Ingbo Källor is located in Heby municipality. This place is famous for its springs with a magical blue-green color. The springs produce 4.3 million pieces of water every day and according to legend, whoever drinks from the water will get good health.

You can taste some spring water for free by the old mill. Try to come here on a sunny day if you want to experience the magical color of the water. The intensity of the colors can vary depending on how much the sun shines and from which angle.

Skokloster Castle (Uppland)

Skokloster Castle is often mentioned as Europe’s foremost Baroque castle. A grand castle located on the Sko peninsula by Lake Mälaren. During summertime, Skokloster Castle is open daily for visitors. In May and September, the castle is open on weekends.

Gamla Uppsala (Uppland)

During the Viking Age, Old Uppsala was a holy place. The museum has several original objects from the Viking Age. Visitors can also see the old King’s Mounds from the 6th century. At the Odinsborg restaurant, you can taste authentic mead as well.

Sigtuna (Uppland)

Sweden’s oldest city is of course also an excursion destination in Sweden that is worth a detour. Sigtuna is located only 45 minutes from Stockholm, and it’s one of the oldest cities in Sweden.

Viking Village Storholmen (Uppland)

During the summer and at special events throughout the year, Viking Village Storholmen opens up to visitors. Storholmen is an archaeological open-air museum with seven houses built using traditional building techniques from the Viking Age.

From the middle of July to the beginning of August, Viking Summer is organized where visitors can learn blacksmithing, wool crafts, and runic writing as well as view a reconstructed Viking boat.

Address : Varjagvägen 1, 761 73 Norrtälje.

Drottningholm Castle (Uppland)

Drottningholm Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also the permanent residence of the King and Queen. Both the park and the castle are open to visitors most of the year.

It is a royal castle from the 17th century with a magnificent castle park, which has contributed to giving the castle its nickname “Versailles of Sweden”, which then refers to the French palace in Versailles.

Wik’s Castle (Uppland)

Wiks Castle is an old defensive castle that was originally built in the 15th century. The castle is beautifully located by Lake Mälaren, about 2 miles southwest of Uppsala.

Nowadays, Wik’s castle is a popular place for conferences and you can also stay overnight. There is also a lovely nature trail next to the castle.

Örebro Castle (Närke)

Örebro Castle is a Renaissance castle that was originally built as a defensive castle in the 14th century. A well-preserved castle in central Örebro that looks more or less the same today as it did in the 19th century.

Lost City – Gustavsvik (Närke)

Lost City is one of Sweden’s largest water parks. An exciting swimming adventure awaits here for the whole family with six large and fast-paced water slides.

The pool is part of Gustavsvik in Örebro, which also has camping, adventure golf, and outdoor swimming. Tickets for Lost City are bought at the reception on-site and cannot be pre-booked.

Konst på Hög (Närke)

On Kvarntorpshögen in Kumla municipality, one can visit the sculpture park known as “Konst på Hög” with about 30 sculptures. During the summer months, theater performances and concerts are also organized.

Wadköping friluftsmuseum (Närke)

Wadköping is an open-air museum in central Örebro where you can see historic buildings with wooden houses and old farms. There are also small shops, museums, and cafés that are open all year round.

Stora Sundby Castle (Södermanland)

Stora Sundby Castle is a fairy-tale knight’s castle located near Eskilstuna. Unfortunately, the castle is not open to the public, but tours with a minimum of 20 people can be booked in advance.

Otherwise, you are free to stroll around the castle park, where you can buy a picnic basket from the castle café or visit the farm shop with locally produced goods.

Old town in Stockholm (Gamla stan)

Old Town is one of the most visited areas in Stockholm, and while tranquil today, this place was once where Stockholm’s blood bath occurred. Those events have led to many believing that the Old Town of Stockholm is haunted.

It’s a lovely place to go for a stroll and without the crowds, it’s surely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden, thus why I recommend getting up early in the morning to stroll through its various alleys and streets.

Stockholms Archipelago

Stockholm’s archipelago is an idyllic place that has gained international fame. Some of the most popular islands include Fjäderholmarna, Vaxholm, Utö, Sandhamn, Grinda, and Möja.

Vasamuseet (Stockholm)

The Vasa Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden and attracts visitors from all over the world. Here you can admire the ancient Vasa ship.

Gripsholms slott (Södermanland)

Gripsholm Castle is beautifully situated by Lake Mälaren in Mariefred. It’s a royal castle and one of the most visited attractions in the region of Södermanland.

The castle is particularly known for its large portrait collection, which contains famous portraits from the time of Gustav Vasa and onwards to modern times.

Tilas stoll (Värmland)

Tilas Stoll is an old horizontal mining tunnel on Högbergsfältet, located a short drive from Filipstad.

It’s quite a unique attraction in Värmland where you first crouch forward through the entrance before reaching the platform where you get this view, which looks like it was taken from a scene from The Lord of the Rings.

Diner 45 in Sunne (Värmland)

Diner 45 is an American-inspired diner where hamburgers, milkshakes, and fries are served. With its retro American decor from the 50s and 60s, it’s like stepping into an old American movie.

The hamburgers are also good and the prices are reasonable. If you drive past Sunne along the E:45, this is a fun stop that I can highly recommend.

Rottneros park (Värmland)

Rottneros Park is a sculpture park in Sunne with blooming gardens and a stunning old manor building. This place acted as a role model for “Ekeby” in Gösta Berling’s saga.

Tossebergsklätten (Värmland)

Tossebergsklätten features one of Värmland’s most beautiful views from a height of 343 meters above sea level. The top can be reached via a narrow serpentine road which also happens to be the steepest paved road in Sweden.

Båstnäs car cemetery (Värmland)

Båstnäs car cemetery is an odd attraction in Sweden that started in 1956 as a scrap yard. Nowadays, this is the largest car cemetery in Sweden with over 1,000 old cars, a majority of which are from the 40s and 50s.

Torsby ski tunnel (Värmland)

In Torsby, it is possible to go cross-country skiing all year round. This is the first ski tunnel in all of Sweden. The indoor course is 1.3 kilometers long and is suitable for both beginners and more experienced cross-country skiers.

Årjängstrollet (Värmland)

The troll of Årjäng is an odd attraction in the Swedish region of Värmland that is particularly popular with children. The troll is 8 meters high and it’s probably one of the largest troll monuments in the world. The tail of the Årjäng troll acts as a slide.

Attractions in Götaland

Below you can see places to visit in Sweden located in the following regions that belong to Götaland: Skåne, Blekinge, Halland, Småland, Öland, Gotland, Östergötland, Västergötland, Dalsland and Bohuslän.

Borgholm Castle ruin (Öland)

The castle ruin of Borgholm is one of the most popular attractions to visit on the island of Öland. The castle has stood here since the 13th century. During summertime, concerts are held inside the ruins and it is also possible to join a guided tour or to stroll around on your own.

Solliden (Öland)

Solliden is the summer residence of the Swedish royal family. This castle-like villa is located near Borgholm’s castle ruins and from May to October, the castle park is open daily for visitors with admission.

Byrums raukar (Öland)

Byrum’s raukar is a large area with “raukar” on Öland with around 120 rauks. It’s a wonderful place located in the north-western part of the island.

Böda Sand (Öland)

Böda Sand is one of the most famous sandy beaches and camping areas in Sweden. Every year, thousands of visitors make the “pilgrimage” to this beach and camping to enjoy the sun and go for a swim.

Gettlinge gravfält (Öland)

Gettlinge graveyard is an ancient site in southern Öland with a 30-meter-long shipwreck and over two hundred graves, from the Late Bronze Age and the Iron Age.

Karlevistenen (Öland)

The Karlevi stone is a well-preserved rune stone on the island of Öland. It has stood in the same place for over 1000 years and tells the story of a Danish chieftain named Sibbe the Wise.

Alvastra klosterruin (Östergötland)

Alvastra monastery is an old Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century by French monks. During the 14th century, the monastery was connected to Saint Birgitta and her order.

What remains today are well-preserved ruins where you feel the wings of history when you stroll around the site.

Särtshöga winery (Östergötland)

Särtshöga vineyard is beautifully situated on the plains of Östergötland with a view of Omberg. Sparkling wine is produced here according to the méthode traditionelle, which means that the wine from Särtshöga is as close as you can get to Swedish champagne.

Visitors are welcome for overnight stays, dinner, and wine tasting. A cozy weekend destination for those who appreciate sparkling wine.

Vreta kloster (Östergötland)

Vreta Kloster was founded as a Benedictine nunnery in the 12th century. A few decades later, the monastery was converted to the Cistercian Order with the king’s sister Ingegerd as its first abbess.

Vreta monastery was active as a monastery until the 16th century. Today all that remains is a ruin and the beautiful monastery church, which is still open to visitors.

Vadstena (Östergötland)

Remains dating back to the Iron Age have been found here. In Vadstena you can visit the church and Vadstena castle, which has played an important role throughout Swedish history.

Rökstenen (Östergötland)

Rökstenen is a unique attraction in Sweden that you should not miss if you are interested in Vikings and rune stones. This runestone has the world’s longest runic inscription.

Trollegater nature reserve (Östergötland)

Trollegater is a large prehistoric cave in Östergötland where locals used to believe that trolls lived. The fissures in the original rock came about after earthquakes, which then became deeper in step with the uplift of the land.

The nature reserve is located 8 km west of Rimforsa in Kinda municipality. It is possible to book guided tours through the municipality, but you can also visit this place on your own.

Brändaholm (Blekinge)

Brändaholm is a charming area just outside central Karlskrona that has also become a well-known attraction in Sweden and has been printed on many postcards over the years.

It is located on Dragsö and during the summer it is possible to join a guided tour. The cottages of Brändaholm all have a uniform style in terms of color, size, and appearance.

Mörrumsån (Blekinge)

Mörrumsån is a beautiful stream in Småland and Blekinge that is particularly famous for its wild population of salmon. Already from the year 1231, there are written sources mentioning salmon fishing in Mörrumsån.

Every year anglers from all over the world come here to fish wild salmon. The Mörrum salmon fishing facility has around 250,000 visitors a year. The stream is surrounded by scenic hiking trails and walking paths.

Hjortsberga gravfält (Blekinge)

Hjortsberga gravfält is a well-preserved burial site in Blekinge, which is located just outside Ronneby. This burial field dates from the younger Iron Age and up to the Viking Age.

In total, there are around 110 ancient remains, including stone ships, stone burials, and burial mounds.

Sölvesborgsbron (Blekinge)

The Sölvesborg Bridge is one of Sweden’s longest bridges for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge is 760 meters long and connects central Sölvesborg with Listerlandet via Kaninholmen.

Drottningskärs Kastell (Blekinge)

Drottningskär’s castle is a fortification that was built in the 17th century. The castle is completely intact as it has never been shelled during its 300-year history.

Eriksberg Vilt & Natur (Blekinge)

Eriksberg Hotell & Safaripark is a unique attraction in Sweden that offers accommodation with a safari in a similar way as it’s done in Africa.

This is Europe’s largest game enclosure and visitors can see red deer, fallow deer, mouflon sheep, wild boar, and bison live wild in the open, protected from hunting & predators.

Ales Stenar (Skåne)

Ales Stenar is Scania’s version of Stonehenge. An old stone ship consisting of 59 different stones, the heaviest of which weighs as much as 5 tons. Excavations have shown that the site has been inhabited for thousands of years.

Kaffestugan Alunbruket (Skåne)

Kaffestugan Alunbruket is an idyllic place in the area of Österlen. This is Scania’s oldest coffee house and one of my favorite places to visit in Sweden.

Even today, home-baked goods and coffee are served using the same recipe that Grandma Hilda used when she started the food service in 1930. Nowadays, it is the third generation of the family that continues to run this charming café.

Kärnan (Skåne)

Kärnan is a medieval tower in Helsingborg that is open for visitors. With clear weather, you can see all the way to Helsingör on the other side of the strait.

Lunds Domkyrka (Skåne)

This church opened its doors as early as 1145 and is thus one of Sweden’s oldest churches. The Romanesque architecture has been preserved and the church was built during the times when Lund become the seat of the Nordic archbishop.

Castles in Scania

Scania (Skåne) has plenty of beautiful old castles. So many that they can fill a whole list of their own. Some of the most famous are:

• Bäckaskog castle
• Malmöhus
• Kronovall’s castle
• Trollenäs
• Glimmingehus
• Svaneholm castle
• Sofiero castle

Knäbäckshusens strand (Skåne)

Knäbäckshusen beach is one of Sweden’s most beautiful beaches. It is located in Österlen near Rörum and Stenshuvud National Park.

This beach resembles a tropical beach and could easily have been located in Thailand. The main difference is the climate and sea temperature.

Eslöv toy museum (Skåne)

Regardless of whether you are an adult or a child, it is worth visiting the toy museum in Eslöv. It is one of Sweden’s largest toy museums with thousands of toys from different eras.

Eslöv’s toy museum offers a nostalgia trip for all adults and an exciting experience for children. A fun family activity where you get the chance to show your children or grandchildren what you played with yourself as a child.

Tykarpsgrottan (Skåne)

Tykarpsgrottan is a unique attraction in Scania where a Christmas market is organized every year inside the cave, twelve meters underground. At other times of the year, the cave can be visited and you can join a guided tour.

Dalby church (Skåne)

Dalby church was built in the 11th century and is the oldest stone church in the Nordics. This is also one of Sweden’s oldest preserved buildings.

The central nave and the side nave have been preserved since the first church building which stood here for just over 1,000 years. Dalby church is open to visitors all year round.

Kalmar Castle (Småland)

Kalmar Castle is one of the most stunning Castles in Sweden and it has played an important role in Swedish defense history. The castle’s current appearance was created during the time of Gustav Vasa, but a defense tower was built already in the 12th century.

Kalmar Castle is open to the public with various exhibitions throughout the year. The staff is also wearing traditional clothing.

Teleborg Castle (Småland)

Teleborg Castle is located in Växjö. The castle was built at the end of the 19th century and has a fairytale-like architecture.

Nowadays, it is possible to stay overnight at Teleborg, which also features a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch of the day or à la carte.

Astrid Lindgrens värld (Småland)

Astrid Lindgren’s World is an amusement park in Vimmerby where everything is based on Astrid Lindgren’s fairy tales. Visitors can meet Pippi Longstocking, Emil in Lönneberga, The Brothers Lionheart, Karlsson on the roof, and Ronja Rövardotter.

A fun experience for the whole family that offers a nostalgic day for adults and a fun day for children. During the visit, you can also watch different shows and walk into different houses.

Åsens by (Småland)

Åsens by is a cultural reserve in Aneby municipality where visitors can travel back in time and see what life was like in Småland 100 years ago. It’s a perfect place to visit if you want to unwind and take a break from our modern and busy world.

Eksjö (Småland)

Eksjö is one of Europe’s best-preserved wooden towns with over 50 wooden houses that have been culturally marked. In the picturesque city center, there are many buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Glasriket (Småland)

Glasriket is the name of an area in Småland where the glass industry has been extensive since the 18th century. Nowadays, there are 13 glassworks and studio cabins that are open to visitors.

The unique art glass from Småland’s Glasriket is famous both in Sweden and internationally. At Kosta Glascenter you can also try your hand at glassblowing.

Granhult church (Småland)

Granhult’s church is Sweden’s oldest preserved timber building. The church was built in the 13th century, and today it’s a cultural treasure with a beautiful and charming interior.

Brahehus (Småland)

Brahehus is a classic attraction in Sweden that many vacationers have passed over the years. This old castle is located along the E4, about 3 kilometers north of Gränna.

From here you get a fantastic view of Lake Vättern and the surrounding landscape from a height of 270 meters above the sea.

High Chaparral (Småland)

High Chaparral is a Swedish theme park with an Indian and cowboy theme. A fun place to visit in Småland where the whole family gets the chance to pan for gold and experience a Wild West environment with associated buildings and shows.

A World of Dinosaurs (Småland)

A World of Dinosaurs is located just outside Kalmar, and it is the largest dinosaur museum in Europe with over 200 skeletons and a reputable collection of fossils from different eras.

Gamleby Trollskogen (Småland)

Over the years, Trollskogen in Gamleby has become a popular attraction in Sweden. The giant Garpe welcomes visitors to Garpedansberget where visitors can follow along a walking path that goes up to the top of the mountain.

In total, there are 87 sculptures representing various fairy-tale characters and beings. A fun activity is to try to find all the sculptures and see how many you manage to find.

Tanum Rock Carvings (Bohuslän)

In Bohuslän, there are around 1500 rock carvings, dating back to 1800-500 years BC. They are listed as a World Heritage site by Unesco and for those who like history, this is an interesting place to visit in Sweden that you should not miss.

Kungsklyftan (Bohuslän)

Kungsklyftan is known, among other things, from the movie Ronja Rövardotter. A mighty gorge that runs through Vetteberget. Walking under the wedged rock is a memorable experience that is both nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time.

Liseberg (Göteborg)

Liseberg is one of Sweden’s most visited attractions with around 3 million visitors every year. A theme park that has been open for visitors since 1923 with rides for all ages.

Throughout the year, various themes are also organized at the amusement park in connection with Christmas and Halloween. The Christmas market at Liseberg is usually viewed as one of the best Christmas markets in Sweden.

Smögen (Bohuslän)

Smögen is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden and every year thousands of tourists come here during the summer months. A beautifully situated island with traditional red houses and lots of restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

The neighboring island of Hållö is also worth a visit with its old lighthouse and the beautiful swimming bay Marmorbassängen.

Pärlane strand (Bohuslän)

Pärlane beach is located in Bohus-Malmön on the West Coast. In my opinion, this is one of Sweden’s most beautiful beaches thanks to its fine-grained sand and unique appearance with a twin beach surrounded by crystal clear water.

Bohus fästning

Bohus fortress is a historical attraction in Bohuslän where many sieges have taken place over the years. The fortress was originally built in the 14th century to strengthen Norway’s border with Sweden.

During the Nordic Seven Years’ War, Bohus fortress was heavily besieged on six different occasions. Nowadays, it is a quiet place where visitors have the opportunity to explore the ruins that remain of the old fortress.

Ramsvikslandet (Bohuslän)

Ramsvikslandet is usually called the kingdom of the rocks and here you can enjoy a walk in a barren landscape with smooth granite outcrops.

Borrås Skåra (Halland)

Borrå’s skåra is a 10-meter-deep rock crevasse located just north of Varberg. During the Iron Age, the site was probably used as an ancient fortress.

The rock crevasse has a width of 1-2 meters and at the end, there is a large boulder wedged in place between the cliff walls. According to the legend, one should put a coin in a small hole in the mountain wall to pass safely.

Tjolöholm Castle (Halland)

Tjolöholm Castle is located on a peninsula in the fjord of Kungsbacka. The castle was built in English Tudor style and was completed in 1904. As a visitor, you can choose to explore on your own or join a guided castle tour.

You can also stay overnight or go for a stroll in the beautiful castle garden. Afternoon tea is another popular activity at Tjolöholm Castle.

Varbergs kallbadhus (Halland)

The cold bath house in Varberg is a well-known attraction in Halland that was built in oriental style in 1903. Here you can enjoy a plunge in the sea all year round with a hot sauna session afterwards.

Grimeton radiostation (Halland)

Grimeton radio station is a World Heritage site located just outside Varberg. Among other things, there is an electromechanical long-distance transmitter from the 1920s that is still fully functional today.

It was from here that Sweden communicated with the United States. This facility played a significant role in telegraph traffic across the Atlantic. As a visitor, you can learn more about the technology and the function of the facility.

Lagaoset (Halland)

Lagaoset is a lovely place in Laholm municipality where the river Lagan flows into the sea. The landscape is characterized by its beautiful beach with fine-grained sand that is surrounded by sand dunes.

Habo church (Västergötland)

Habo church is a relatively unknown attraction in Sweden despite being one of the most beautiful churches in Europe if you ask me.

There are countless impressive wood carvings and paintings on the inside. Habo church was consecrated in 1680.

Läckö Castle (Västergötland)

Läckö Castle is beautifully located out on Kållandsö by Lake Vänern. It is open to the public and various exhibitions and performances are organized every year. In the museum, you can also see old objects from the 17th century.

Göta Kanal (Västergötland)

The Göta Canal is a well-known attraction in Sweden that is also of historical importance as the canal has contributed enormously to Sweden’s development since it was built.

Göta Canal is 190.5 kilometers long and has a total of 58 locks that make it possible to travel all the way from Kattegat in the west to the Baltic Sea in the east by boat. It’s possible to experience Göta Canal by bike or boat.

Varnhems klosterkyrka (Västergötland)

Varnhem’s monastery church is a beautiful old church with unique architecture in Romanesque-Gothic style. The monastery church was consecrated in the 12th century.

In this place, the oldest traces of Christianity in Sweden have been found and as a visitor, you can really feel the wings of history when you stroll around.

Hornborgasjön (Västergötland)

Lake Hornborgasjön has become a popular place to visit in Sweden where you can see the annual dance of thousands of cranes. At most, over 20,000 cranes gather.

The highest number of cranes can typically be seen by the lake in the last week of March, or in the beginning of April depending on the weather.

Martorpsfallet (Västergötland)

Martorpsfallet is a waterfall at Kinnekulle that cascades along beautiful limestone formations. The waterfall has its largest flow during spring.

Visby (Gotland)

The city wall in Visby is a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. Visby is also one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns from the Middle Ages.

Sankta Maria domkyrka (Gotland)

The cathedral in Visby was consecrated in the 13th century and was originally intended to serve as a guest church for merchants from Germany. After the Reformation in the 16th century, the church was elevated to a cathedral.

Rauks of Gotland

Gotland is widely known for its rauks. In the picture, you see a famous rauk area on the island of Fårö, which is particularly known for its iconic rauk called “Kaffepannan”.

Another well-known rauk area is Langhammar’s rauk area and Hoburgsgubben. Folhammar raukfält is another rauk area worth a visit.

Gute Vingård (Gotland)

Join a guided tour of the Gute vineyard, which has around 17,000 vines with the grape varieties Rondo, Solaris, and Phönix. You can also stay overnight.

Blå lagunen (Gotland)

The Blue Lagoon is an old limestone quarry in northern Gotland that is known for its crystal clear water that shimmers in turquoise and blue. It’s a popular place to go for a swim during the summer months.

Lummelundagrottan (Gotland)

The Lummelunda cave is a popular attraction on Gotland, which is located just north of Visby. It is one of Sweden’s longest caves, and it’s still largely unexplored.

As a visitor, you can join various tours in the cave. The tours are adapted based on age and how far into the cave you want to go.

Tingstäde kyrka (Gotland)

Tingstäde is one of Gotland’s oldest and largest medieval churches. The church was built in the 12th century and has had the same appearance since the 14th century. The height of the tower is a whopping 55 meters.

Kneippbyn (Gotland)

Kneippbyn is a well-visited tourist facility on the island of Gotland with a water park, hotel, camping, and carousels. Here you can also visit the real-life “Villa Villekulla”, which was used in the filming of Pippi Longstocking.

Akvedukten i Håverud (Dalsland)

The aqueduct in Håverud is a spectacular construction that attracts around 250,000 visitors a year from all over the world. Take a trip along Dalsland’s canal and see Håverud’s aqueduct up close.

Dals Rostock örtagård (Dalsland)

The herb garden Dals Rostock is a picturesque herb garden with around 350 plants. From May to September it is open to visitors with free entry.

The herb garden was established in memory of Johannes Henriksson, who was a prominent connoisseur in Sweden when it comes to medicinal plants.

Tresticklans nationalpark (Dalsland)

Tresticklan is a national park in Dalsland that is characterized by pristine forests and beautiful lakes. It is also the largest forested area that is roadless and undeveloped in southern Sweden.

Do you have more suggestions on places to visit in Sweden? Feel free to share your own favorites and leave a comment.

Photo: Linus Bergman/Visit Sweden

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Sweden Travel Guide – Top Tips for Your Trip to Sweden

Are you planning a trip to Sweden? Here are my top tips for a great time in Sweden. Where to go and what to do. What to eat and when to go…

These questions will be answered further below on this page…

Is it worth going to Sweden?

Why travel to sweden.

• Where to go?
• When to go?

How many days do you need in Sweden?

• What to do?

Things NOT to do when you travel to Sweden

• Safety tips – How to be safe in Sweden?
• … and more

Tips for your trip to Sweden

Having lived in Sweden for more than ten years, I start considering myself as a long-term Sweden tourist, sort of. I still enjoy discovering new places and Sweden still manages to amaze me with idyllic locations and all sorts of impressive experiences. In this Sweden travel guide I want to share the best places, accommodations, useful tips and general travel advice for Sweden. I hope this guide makes it easier to plan your trip so you can have a great time when you’re in Sweden.

In the bottom of this page you find important safety information for your trip to Sweden.

Absolutely … if you plan your trip right. For example, your trip to Sweden can be a disappointment if you go to the wrong locations or even to the right locations but at the wrong time of the year. But let’s start with why you should travel to Sweden in general and after that I’ll tell you what is the best time to go there.

Sweden offers a lot for diverse types of travellers. You will have a great experience, if you want to discover stunning nature, take your loved ones to one of the family friendly amusement parks. You can buy go shopping in modern stores and afterwards dine in some of the world’s finest restaurants and afterwards get to know Sweden’s intense night life. You can go into culturally interesting buildings, learn more about historically relevant places and afterwards enjoy some typically Swedish pastry and a cup of strong coffee in a cozy Swedish café.

In short, Sweden is a great travel destination for those who want to

• Discover beautiful nature
• Provide all their family members a fun experience in a child-friendly, safe environment
• Get to know Swedes at the bar and on the dance floor
• Eat delicious food
• Expand your wardrobe with the latest Swedish fashion

Where to go – best destinations in Sweden

Top destinations to visit in sweden.

• Idyllic at the sea : Smögen and the surrounding coast line and villages at Sweden’s west coast
• Typical Sweden : beautiful landscapes with lots of lakes and vast forrest: Småland (that’s where Astrid Lindgren grew up and many of her tales take place, for example Emil of Lönneberga)
• Party, shopping, archipelagos and royal family : Stockholm

When to visit Sweden?

Unless you like skiing – in which case – the best time to travel to Sweden is mid/end of May to mid September . Sweden really comes to life during this time of the year:

When to visit Sweden? What is the best month?

Best months to travel to Sweden : mid/end of May to mid September (the big cities and the south of Sweden are great in summer, due to green landscapes, long, sunny days and smiling Swedes) and December (Christmas fairs and shopping).

If you like skiing , I’d recommend the time between December and March in one of the big Swedish skiing resorts like Åre , Sälen or Vemdalen .

Two days, if you’re going there for a short trip. Stockholm and Gothenburg are absolutely worth visiting, even if it’s just for one night or one full day.

A great way to experience Sweden, which I strongly recommend, is having a round trip/road trip, of at least a week, better two. This way, you can experience the cool cities as well as the idyllic little towns with their typically Swedish red houses and other beautiful country- or seaside locations. I will share the best destinations for your route through Sweden further below…

Practical travel advice

• Short distance to Swedes when standing in line
• Spanking your children even slightly (illegal). Sweden is a child-friendly country . Already in 1979 Sweden became the first country to ban corporal punishment of children. “ Beating or spanking a child is also a criminal offence according to the Swedish Penal Code”.
• Expecting cash payment option

Buying alcohol and drinking age

To buy alcohol  that you want to drink in your Swedish cabin or hotel, like wine, spirits and beer with high percentage alcohol (over 3.5%) you have to go to the state-owned alcohol shop  Systembolaget . Also, you have to be  20 years old  to buy alcohol at Systembolaget. In bars and restaurants on the other hand:  18 .

Currency in Sweden – Do I need cash in Sweden?

Swedish krona (svenska kronor). You get around Sweden pretty well with electric payment methods, even without cash in your wallet (personally, I rarely use any cash nowadays). Yet, I’d recommend you have about 500 SEK in bank notes with you, just in case a card payment processing system might be defect at the time you’re visiting a café or bar.

Tipping in Sweden – How much?

Tips are included in the prices. It’s not uncommon that Swedes don’t pay any tips in bars and restaurants at all. Waiters and bar keepers won’t look at you angrily when you just give them the amount that’s written on the bill. That said, if you found they provided great service, you can show that by giving a tip. (Personally, I pay about 10-20%, or round up the sum when I am very satisfied with the service, but usually only at places where food is served at the table. Same with taxi drivers: Was it a pleasant ride and you had a good conversation, you can give a little extra. Again, it’s not expected.)

What should I take to Sweden?

There’s actually not that much you have to think about, apart from your standard travel equipment like passport etc. When it comes to clothing, in winter, make sure you have a pair of proper winter boots with you that can persist in snowy winter conditions. In summer, when you stay in the country side, you might want to buy mosquito spray in the local pharmacy. Other than that… no, there’s nothing specific to consider compared to other travel destinations.

Power plugs, outlets, sockets and electricity in Sweden

If you need to charge your phone or run any other electric device, here is the outlet that is common in Sweden: Type C and F als known as “ Europlug “, 230 V, the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Need an adapter? Here is one on Amazon .

What food to try when you’re in Sweden

• Sweden is known for their köttbullar , meat balls. You have probably tried them already at IKEA but now it’s a good opportunity to eat original Swedish meatballs, in Sweden.
• For all who can’t decide whether to have a kebab or a pizza, Swedes came up with the glorious idea to combine those two in the famous kebabpizza .
• When you are in a café and don’t just want to eat sugary pastry, but rather something that feels like “proper food”, order a räkmacka , a shrimp baguette or sandwich.
• kanelbulle (cinnamon roll),
• the green princesstårta (princess cake),
• a dammsugare aka punschrulle , a little marzipan role, also green

More about traditional Swedish food, here

Communication with Swedes – “Is English widely spoken in Sweden?”

You can’t speak Swedish? Almost all Swedes speak English . So no worries, you can have a conversation with almost any Swede you meet. Still want to impress Swedes with some Swedish? Here are  basic Swedish words and phrases  for your Sweden trip.

Is Sweden an expensive place to visit? /How expensive is a trip to Sweden?

To be honest, it kind of is. A beer costs about 5 to 8 Euros, a Pizza around 10 and 5 kilometers in a Taxi cost about as much as a Pizza and a beer.

Sweden on a budget

Ways to save some money when you’re in Sweden:

• Buy groceries at LIDL or Willy:s
• a hostel (find hostels here, at Hostelworld ),
• or why not try out Couchsurfing
• Use public transport ( SJ Swedish Railroads )

How to go to Sweden

Travel to sweden by plane.

• Stockholm : Arlanda Airport (which is not far from Uppsala as well)
• Gothenburg : Landvetter Airport
• Malmö : It’s usually most convenient to choose Copenhagen airport (Denmark). From there you go by train or rental car to Malmö crossing the majestic Öresund bridge which connects Sweden with Denmark.

Travel to Sweden by car

Fastest way to Sweden by car : from Germany to Sweden via Denmark. Take the ferry from Putgarden (Germany) to Rodby in Denmark. Ten about two hours by car to Copenhagen and from there via the Öresund bridge to Malmö.

List with all ferries that will take you from Germany or Denmark to Sweden

If you want to avoid ferries and only go by car

Drive via Kiel in the very North of Germany, through Denkmark, and then crossing the Öresund bridge, to arrive in Malmö. From there it’s about …

• 7 hours to Stockholm
• 3 hours to Gothenburg
• 2 hours to central Småland (Växjö)

If you want to stay away from ferries (due to sea sickness for example) you can travel to Sweden by car, and it doesn’t even take so much longer. Here is the route. It goes leads through Germany and Denmark.

Best Hotels in Sweden

Here is a list of hotels I have stayed at and would recommend

• Stockholm: Berns
• Göteborg: Comfort Hotel
• Malmö: not stayed there over night yet, but here’s a list on Booking.com
• Uppsala: Radisson Blu or Elite Hotel Academia (both excellent hotels)
• Umeå: U&Me Hotel
• Växjö (Småland): PM & Vänner (Disclaimer: haven’t exactly stayed in one of their rooms, but experienced their roof top bar and restaurant.)

Sweden for families

Best amusement parks for kids.

• Astrid Lindgren’s World , Vimmerby (Småland)
• Liseberg , Gothenburg
• Junibacken , Stockholm
• Gröna Lund , Stockholm
• High Chaparral , Kulltorp (Småland)

List with all amusement parks in Sweden, here .

Other Sweden travel guides online

If you didn’t find my travel guide useful enough, you might get the information you need from one of these online guides:

• Nomadic Matt
• Lonely Planet
• Visit Sweden

Sweden Travel Guide Book, recommendation

My recommendation for a printed Sweden Guide, for the time when you want to keep your eyes off a screen and enjoy the haptics of paper… Lonely Planet Sweden (Country Guide)

Safety tips

Yes, there are a few dangerous animals in Sweden, here is a list

Emergency number to call: 112

Official information for Sweden travellers provided by the Swedish state, for example requirements for visa etc, can be found on their Website: Sweden Abroad, here

Enjoy your trip! :)

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30 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

Looking for the best places to visit in Sweden? Discover the hidden treasures of Sweden with our comprehensive guide to the top 30 must-visit places, from picturesque Smögen to historic Gripsholm Castle.

Sweden should definitely be on your list when it comes to finding an incredible place to explore. This Scandinavian gem offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations that cater to all kinds of travelers. From the bustling capital of Stockholm to the serene beauty of its archipelago, Sweden has something for everyone. 

Whether you prefer exploring vibrant cities like Stockholm or immersing yourself in quaint Swedish towns like Visby or Kiruna’s Arctic wonders, this Scandinavian gem offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveler. Don’t miss out on discovering Sweden’s rich history and stunning landscapes – it’s truly a place that will leave you in awe! 

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Table of Contents

Stockholm is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Sweden. The capital city is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and stunning architecture. 

As you stroll through its streets, you can’t help but feel the palpable energy that emanates from every corner. One must-visit landmark in Stockholm is the picturesque Gamla Stan, the charming old town dating back to the 13th century. 

Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a time machine. You’ll find an array of quaint shops selling traditional Swedish crafts and cozy cafés where you can take a break and indulge in some delicious Swedish pastries. 

For history buffs, visiting Stockholm’s Royal Palace is a must. This grand structure is not only the official residence of the Swedish royal family but also houses several museums that showcase Sweden’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

Take advantage of the Changing of the Guard ceremony, an iconic event that occurs daily during summer . If you want to immerse yourself in nature within Stockholm, head to Djurgården Island. 

This green oasis offers plenty of walking paths, scenic views, and even an open-air museum called Skansen, where you can learn about traditional Swedish life from centuries past. Art enthusiasts will be delighted by Stockholm’s world-class museums like Moderna Museet and Fotografiska. 

These institutions feature contemporary art exhibitions showcasing local talent and international artists. Whether you’re into paintings or photography, these museums offer diverse artistic experiences. 

When it comes to culinary delights, Stockholm doesn’t disappoint either. The city boasts numerous top-notch restaurants offering traditional Swedish cuisine and international flavors. 

Make sure to try some classic dishes like meatballs with lingonberry sauce or Gravlax (cured salmon), accompanied by a glass of aquavit for an authentic taste of Sweden. Every trip to Sweden would be complete with exploring Stockholm. 

The city offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, from its historic old town to its modern art museums. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Sweden’s capital city. 

Gothenburg, the second-largest city in Sweden, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern attractions. Make sure to visit this captivating city if you’re exploring the best places to visit in Sweden. 

One of Gothenburg’s highlights is its picturesque coastline, which stretches along the western part of Sweden. The city boasts several stunning beaches where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing waters of the North Sea. 

Liseberg, an amusement park in the heart of Gothenburg , is also worth visiting. With thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and live entertainment, it’s an attraction that appeals to both young and old. 

If you’re interested in history and culture, Gothenburg won’t disappoint. Explore the Haga district with its charming wooden houses and cobbled streets. 

This area is known for its cozy cafes where you can indulge in a fika (Swedish coffee break) while enjoying homemade pastries or traditional Swedish meatballs. For art enthusiasts, Gothenburg has several museums showcasing contemporary and classic works. 

The Gothenburg Museum of Art houses an impressive collection, including pieces by famous artists such as Rembrandt and Picasso. Another must-visit spot is Liseberg Gardens, which transforms into a magical winter wonderland during Christmas time. 

From November through January , this amusement park becomes one of Sweden’s largest Christmas markets, with countless stalls selling festive treats and crafts. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while, take a short ferry ride from Gothenburg to Göta Archipelago or Vrångö Island. 

These serene natural havens offer breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings perfect for hiking or relaxing by the sea. Gothenburg is undoubtedly one of Sweden’s most captivating cities that offers something for everyone. 

Whether exploring historical neighborhoods like Haga or indulging in thrilling rides at Liseberg, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So, if you find yourself in Sweden, add Gothenburg to your list of must-visit places. 

Malmö, located in the southernmost part of Sweden, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique blend of history and modernity. As the third-largest city in Sweden, Malmö has plenty to offer for travelers looking to explore this dynamic Scandinavian destination. One of the top attractions in Malmö is its stunning architecture. 

The Turning Torso, a twisted skyscraper that stands as one of Sweden’s most iconic landmarks, dominates the city skyline. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, this marvel offers breathtaking views over the Öresund Strait and Copenhagen . 

For history buffs, Malmöhus Castle is a must-visit. Built-in the 16th century, it is one of Scandinavia’s oldest surviving Renaissance castles . 

It houses several museums today, including the Malmö Art Museum and the City Museum. The castle’s picturesque gardens are perfect for leisurely strolls on sunny days. 

Lilla Torg, meaning “Little Square,” is another gem in Malmö’s old town area. This charming cobblestone square has colorful 17th-century buildings that house trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars. 

It’s an ideal spot to relax with coffee or enjoy a delicious meal in the vibrant atmosphere. If you’re traveling with family or looking for fun activities, take advantage of Folkets Park (People’s Park). 

This expansive park features playgrounds, mini-golf courses, and even an amusement park with thrilling rides for all ages. It’s a great place to spend a sunny day enjoying outdoor activities and picnicking. 

No visit to Malmö would be complete without exploring its beautiful coastline. Ribersborg Beach offers sandy shores where you can relax under the sun or take refreshing dips in the Baltic Sea during summer . 

The surrounding area also boasts picturesque nature reserves such as Kungsparken and Pildammsparken, perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the scenic beauty of Malmö. Malmö is one of Sweden’s most captivating cities, blending historical charm with modern attractions. 

This city has something for everyone, from its architectural wonders like the Turning Torso to its rich cultural heritage displayed in Malmöhus Castle. Whether you’re seeking art and history or simply want to relax on the beach, Malmö is a place you won’t want to miss during your visit to Sweden. 

Abisko National Park

Regarding natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, Abisko National Park in Sweden is an absolute gem. Located in the country’s far north, this national park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With stunning mountain peaks, pristine lakes , and vast untouched wilderness, Abisko offers an immersive experience that will leave you in awe. 

One of the main attractions of Abisko National Park is its mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights . This phenomenon occurs during winter when the skies come alive with vibrant colors dancing across the horizon. 

If you’re lucky enough to witness this magical spectacle, it will surely be an experience you’ll never forget. Apart from the Northern Lights, Abisko also boasts incredible hiking trails catering to all expertise levels. 

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, trails are available for everyone. The Kungsleden (King’s Trail) is a popular trek that takes you on a 440-kilometer journey through some of Sweden’s most stunning landscapes. 

For those seeking more adventure, Abisko offers opportunities for skiing and snowboarding during winter months. Its powdery snow and well-maintained slopes have become a favorite destination for winter sports enthusiasts worldwide. 

You can also explore frozen lakes on ice skates or go ice fishing for an authentic Swedish experience. Abisko Village is a charming little settlement located at the national park’s entrance. 

It provides essential amenities like accommodations and dining options for visitors. Make sure to visit the STF Abisko Mountain Station, where you can learn about local flora and fauna, or even join guided tours led by knowledgeable experts. 

If you have extra time to spare during your visit to Abisko National Park, consider exploring nearby attractions. Just a short train ride away is Kiruna – Sweden’s northernmost town famous for its Icehotel and mining history. 

You can also venture west to explore the stunning coastline of West Sweden or head south towards Malmö, one of the country’s largest cities. Abisko National Park is undeniably one of Sweden’s best destinations for nature lovers . 

From its captivating Northern Lights to its diverse hiking trails and thrilling winter activities, this park offers an unforgettable experience showcasing northern Sweden’s true beauty. So, if you plan a trip to Scandinavia , explore Abisko and all it offers. 

Visby, located on the island of Gotland, is a charming and historic town that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Sweden. As you stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets, you can’t help but feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The well-preserved medieval city walls surrounding Visby are a testament to its rich history and have earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage site . 

One of the highlights of Visby is its captivating architecture. The town has beautiful medieval buildings, including churches and merchant houses. 

One particular gem is the St. Mary’s Cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its towering spires and intricate stone carvings. Inside, you’ll find stunning vaulted ceilings and an impressive collection of medieval art. 

If you’re interested in Swedish history, visit the Gotlands Museum. Here, you can learn about the island’s Viking past and explore artifacts from various periods. 

The museum also offers guided tours that provide deeper insights into the island’s fascinating heritage. Visby is not just a place for history buffs; it also boasts beautiful natural surroundings. 

Just outside the city walls, you’ll find Almedalen Park – an ideal place for a leisurely picnic or peaceful walk amidst greenery. If you’re up for beach time, head to Tofta Strand – one of Gotland’s most popular sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters that beckon visitors during warm summer. 

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Visby offers plenty of charming cafes and restaurants where you can indulge in traditional Swedish cuisine or sample international flavors. Lilla Torg Square is particularly vibrant – surrounded by colorful buildings housing trendy boutiques and cozy eateries offering everything from fresh seafood to delicious pastries. 

To reach Visby from mainland Sweden, several ferry routes are available from Stockholm or Nynäshamn during the summer months. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Visby Airport, which offers domestic and international connections. 

Visby is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of rich history, stunning architecture, natural beauty, and a relaxed Scandinavian atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the old town’s cobblestone streets or enjoying the serene coastline nearby, Visby offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Sweden. 

Uppsala, oh Uppsala! This charming city in Sweden is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. Nestled about 70 kilometers north of Stockholm, Uppsala is a place that seamlessly blends history, culture, and academia. 

It’s home to one of the oldest universities in Scandinavia and boasts an array of fascinating attractions that will leave you spellbound. When visiting Uppsala, make sure to visit the renowned Uppsala University. 

Founded in 1477, this prestigious institution has an impressive campus with beautiful buildings and lush green spaces. Take a leisurely stroll through the university grounds and soak up the academic atmosphere permeating every corner. 

One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the magnificent Uppsala Cathedral. Standing tall with its Gothic architecture, it’s hard not to be awed by this grand structure. 

Step inside and marvel at its intricate details and rich history. Take advantage of the opportunity to climb to its tower for breathtaking panoramic city views. 

Gamla Uppsala (Old Uppsala) should be on your must-visit list if you’re a history enthusiast. This ancient site was once an important religious center during Viking times. 

You can explore burial mounds dating back over 1,500 years and learn about Sweden’s fascinating past. A visit to Lake Mälaren is highly recommended for nature lovers seeking tranquility. 

Just outside of Uppsala lies this expansive lake where you can unwind amidst picturesque surroundings. Take a boat trip or find a cozy spot on its shores to enjoy a picnic while taking in the scenic beauty. 

And let’s not forget about one more must-see attraction – the Gustavianum Museum! Housed in what used to be Sweden’s royal palace, this museum offers an intriguing journey through time with its wide array of exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to scientific curiosities. 

Uppsala is a captivating place to explore during your Sweden vacation . With its mix of history, academia, and natural beauty, it offers a unique experience. 

Whether you’re wandering through the university grounds, exploring the city’s ancient past at Gamla Uppsala, soaking in the stunning views from the cathedral tower, or simply enjoying the serenity of Lake Mälaren – Uppsala has something for everyone. So add this hidden gem to your itinerary and discover why it’s one of Sweden’s best destinations! 

Nestled in the Baltic Sea lies the enchanting island of Gotland, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and charming medieval towns . As you step foot on this picturesque island, you’ll be transported back in time as you wander through its cobbled streets and marvel at its well-preserved medieval architecture. 

Gotland’s main hub is the capital city of Visby, renowned for its well-preserved city walls dating back to the 13th century. Take a leisurely stroll along these ancient fortifications and soak in the panoramic views of the Baltic Sea. 

Once inside the city walls, explore Visby’s narrow alleys lined with colorful houses and charming cafes. Stop by Lilla Torg, a bustling square where locals gather to enjoy coffee or indulge in delicious local delicacies. 

Nature makes Gotland an absolute haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The island boasts many beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or simply basking in the sun. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, embark on a kayaking excursion along Gotland’s stunning coastline and discover hidden coves and sea caves that dot its shores. Exploring Gotland’s rich Viking heritage is an absolute must for history buffs. 

Visit Fornsalen Museum, where artifacts from this fascinating era are displayed alongside informative exhibits that shed light on Viking traditions and ways of life. Take advantage of Stora Torget (The Great Square), where you can find historical landmarks such as Botanist Carl Linnaeus’ statue and admire the impressive Gothic-style architecture. 

A visit to Gotland would only be complete with venturing beyond Visby and discovering other hidden gems scattered across this captivating island. The village of Ljugarn offers idyllic sandy beaches perfect for relaxation or leisurely walks along the shore. 

Don’t forget to explore Högklint Nature Reserve with its breathtaking cliffs providing stunning views of the Baltic Sea. As the summer months approach, Gotland truly comes alive with various events and festivals that attract visitors from around the globe. 

The Gotland Medieval Week is a highlight, where the island transforms into a medieval wonderland complete with jousting tournaments, reenactments, and lively markets. Gotland is undoubtedly a place you will want to take advantage of on your journey through Sweden. 

Its rich history, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes make it an irresistible attraction for travelers seeking an authentic Swedish experience. Whether exploring the cobbled streets of Visby or basking in the sun on one of its pristine beaches, Gotland promises to leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. 

Located in the far north of Sweden, Kiruna is a small town that offers a unique experience for visitors. Nestled among beautiful landscapes, this charming village has much to offer. If you find yourself in this part of Sweden, take advantage of the opportunity to explore Kiruna and its surroundings. 

One of Kiruna’s most remarkable attractions is the famous Ice Hotel . This incredible structure is built entirely from ice and snow each winter, offering guests an extraordinary overnight experience. 

The Icehotel features intricately carved ice sculptures and cozy ice rooms where you can sleep surrounded by frozen beauty. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind accommodation that will leave you awestruck. 

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by Kiruna’s proximity to some breathtaking natural wonders. Just a short drive away lies Abisko National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. 

Hiking through the park’s trails provides awe-inspiring views of mountains, lakes, and dense forests. Remember your camera; these photo opportunities will be noticed! 

Another must-visit location near Kiruna is Jokkmokk, a small town with a rich Sami cultural heritage. Here, you can immerse yourself in traditional Sami handicrafts and learn about their way of life at the Ájtte Museum. 

The museum showcases artifacts related to reindeer herding and Sami history, providing valuable insight into this unique indigenous culture. For those seeking adventure, Kiruna offers thrilling activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling through its snowy landscapes. 

These exhilarating experiences allow you to embrace the true spirit of Swedish winter while exploring the stunning nature reserves surrounding the town. A visit to Kiruna would only be complete with experiencing one of Sweden’s most extraordinary natural phenomena: the midnight sun . 

Due to its location above the Arctic Circle during summer months, Kiruna enjoys never-ending daylight for several weeks each year. Imagine strolling through quaint streets at midnight, basking in the sun’s soft glow. 

It’s a surreal experience that will stay with you forever. Kiruna is an ideal place for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. 

Jokkmokk, a small town in the northern part of Sweden, is a hidden gem worth visiting during your vacation to Sweden. Situated within the Arctic Circle, Jokkmokk offers a unique experience that showcases the rich Swedish history and culture. 

This charming town attracts visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating traditions. One of the highlights of Jokkmokk is its annual winter market, which has been held for over 400 years. 

This market celebrates Sami culture, the indigenous people of northern Scandinavia. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Sami activities like reindeer racing and ice fishing during this time. 

The market also features local crafts, delicious food, and vibrant performances that showcase the Sami way of life. Aside from the winter market, Jokkmokk boasts stunning natural landscapes that will leave you in awe. 

Abisko National Park is just a short distance from Jokkmokk and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and expansive forests. It’s truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking or simply taking in the serene beauty of nature. 

For history enthusiasts, Jokkmokk has several museums that provide insights into Swedish Lapland’s cultural heritage. The Ájtte Museum showcases exhibits on Sami history and traditions, allowing visitors to learn about their way of life throughout history. 

Another interesting museum is the Johan Tirén Museum-Gallery, which displays contemporary art inspired by nature and landscapes. Journeying further into Swedish Lapland from Jokkmokk takes you to incredible places like Kiruna and Gällivare, where you can witness even more stunning scenery and experience authentic Sami culture. 

These towns offer unique opportunities for activities such as dog sledding or visiting reindeer herding camps where you can learn about traditional Sami livelihoods. Jokkmokk is a captivating place to explore during your holiday in Sweden. 

Its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant traditions offer a unique experience that is bound to leave a lasting impression. Whether you visit during the winter market or explore during the summer, Jokkmokk is one of Sweden’s best destinations for those seeking an authentic and immersive Swedish experience. 

Örebro

Örebro, a captivating town nestled in the heart of Sweden, is a destination that will leave travelers awestruck. Steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking geography, Örebro offers a unique and enchanting experience for all who venture here.

The town’s majestic castle, a stunning testament to its medieval past, stands proudly as a symbol of its heritage. As you wander the cobbled streets, you’ll be immersed in a tapestry of centuries-old charm, with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and picturesque squares at every turn.

The tranquil waters of Lake Hjälmaren provide a serene backdrop, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and mesmerizing sunset strolls. The locals’ warm hospitality and genuine friendliness invite you to immerse yourself in their community.

Whether you explore Örebro’s art galleries and museums, indulge in the delectable cuisine, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this idyllic town, you’ll be left with memories to treasure forever.

Örebro is, without a doubt, a hidden gem and one of Sweden’s most remarkable destinations.

Are you planning your travels? Here’re my top travel resources!

I’m a serial planner both in life and in travel – I have bucket lists, things to do, see, and everything. So, I always love when my life is sorted easily using tools and resources that would make my general planning a little smoother and easier. Therefore, in my many years of traveling the world, I’ve seen myself returning to these travel resources repeatedly. And here I am, sharing my tips to make your life easy and breezy so you can stress less, travel heaps, and focus on the fun part of travel!

• Booking.com  – I book all my hotels through this website and don’t honestly use anything else. They always have the best prices, in my opinion.
• Airbnb  – If I’m traveling long-term to one destination, I book my flats through Airbnb.
• Skyscanner  – The best place to find cheap flights on flexible dates. I use this a lot to score cheap flights within Europe!
• SafetyWing  – Always travel insured! Never leave your home country without one. It is worth the extra money, I promise you!
• GetYourGuide  – Hands-down, the best place to find cool and unique tours if you don’t feel like winging it, and go straight to a local expert. I use this a lot in new destinations to get acquainted with the area!
• My Pretty Wild World Travel Diary (coming soon)  – A book you can write down your travel plans, create itineraries, track down your budget, and dot down memories along the way! A handy book you can keep and read later to revisit memory lane.
• Pretty Wild World Travel Planning Printables (coming soon)  – Are you a nut like me when it comes to planning? Yes? Good. My travel planning resource in one zip file is an easy-to-use printable planner that comes with tips that helps you plan your travels during the planning stage, a pre-flight checklist, an itinerary planner, and so on.

Kalmar, a charming city on Sweden’s southeast coast, is truly a hidden gem worth exploring. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque waterfront, this city offers an unforgettable experience to visitors worldwide. 

One of the main attractions in Kalmar is its beautiful castle, Kalmar Slott. This well-preserved Renaissance castle dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by a moat that adds to its medieval charm. 

Inside the castle, you can explore various exhibitions showcasing artifacts from different periods and learn about the fascinating history of Kalmar and its significance in Swedish history. As you stroll through Kalmar’s cobbled streets, you’ll come across quaint buildings that evoke nostalgia. 

The city center, known as Stortorget, is a vibrant square where locals and tourists gather to enjoy outdoor cafes or browse through boutique shops. Don’t miss out on visiting Gamla Stan (Old Town), which transports you back in time with its well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow alleyways. 

For nature enthusiasts, Kalmar offers easy access to some breathtaking natural landscapes. Just a short drive away lies Öland Island, connected to the mainland by Europe’s longest bridge. 

This idyllic island is home to beautiful sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and vast untouched nature. Explore Öland’s iconic windmills or take a leisurely bike ride along its scenic coastal paths for an unforgettable experience. 

Its historical sites, natural beauty, and proximity to other fantastic destinations like Öland and Lake Siljan promise a memorable experience for travelers seeking a perfect blend of culture and nature. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Gamla Stan or exploring the grandeur of Kalmar Slott, this lovely city will leave you captivated by its unique charm. 

Karlskrona is a hidden gem nestled on the southeastern coast of Sweden. It may not be as well-known as Stockholm or Gothenburg, but exploring captivating cities off the beaten path is worth visiting. This charming maritime town offers a unique blend of history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty that will leave you in awe. 

One of the highlights of Karlskrona is its impressive naval history. The city was founded in 1680 as the main base for the Swedish navy, and its naval heritage is still very much alive. 

A must-visit attraction is the Naval Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating world of ships and submarines. You’ll learn about Sweden’s maritime past and even have a chance to explore some vessels firsthand. 

If you’re a nature lover, Karlskrona won’t disappoint either. The city boasts several picturesque islands that are begging to be explored. 

Take a leisurely stroll along Stumholmen Island, which offers stunning archipelago views and hosts various events throughout the year. Or hop on a boat and venture out to Aspö Island, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere. 

For those interested in gardens and greenery, visit Karlskrona’s Botanical Garden. This oasis of plants and flowers is an excellent place to unwind and connect with nature. 

With over 1,500 species worldwide, it’s truly a botanical paradise. Another noteworthy aspect of Karlskrona is its proximity to other exciting destinations in southern Sweden. 

Just a short drive away is Kalmar, famous for its well-preserved Renaissance castle – Kalmar Castle – which dates back to medieval times. If you have time during your visit to Karlskrona, consider taking a day trip there for another dose of history. 

Karlskrona is a perfect place to experience the best of Sweden. From its rich naval history to its stunning natural landscapes, this charming city offers something for everyone. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s maritime heritage, wandering through beautiful gardens, or embarking on day trips to nearby destinations, Karlskrona won’t disappoint. So why not venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden treasures that this Nordic gem has to offer? 

Nestled in the heart of Dalarna County, Falun is a charming Swedish city with a special place in the country’s history and culture. Known for its picturesque landscapes, rich mining heritage, and vibrant festivals, Falun is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Swedish experience. One of the highlights of Falun is its famous copper mine, which played a crucial role in Sweden’s economy during the 17th century. 

Today, visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and delve into the depths of history by taking guided tours deep underground. Marvel at the intricate network of tunnels and learn about the grueling work that took place here centuries ago. 

As you wander through Falun’s streets, you’ll notice well-preserved wooden houses adorned with vibrant red paint—a signature feature of Swedish architecture. These quaint buildings add to the city’s enchanting atmosphere and provide a glimpse into its past. 

Make sure to visit Stora Kopparberget (Great Copper Mountain) to witness some stunning panoramic views of the city. If you’re a nature lover, Falun won’t disappoint. 

The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Head to nearby Lake Runn to enjoy a peaceful boat ride or indulge in fishing amidst breathtaking scenery. 

For those seeking more adventure, Lugnet Nature Reserve offers exhilarating hiking trails with mesmerizing views. When it comes to cultural experiences, Falun has plenty to offer. 

Pay a visit to Dalarnas Museum—a local history and art treasure trove to get acquainted with Dalarna County’s traditions and customs. Don’t miss out on experiencing one of Sweden’s most renowned festivals—the Falu Kalabalik—where locals celebrate their cultural heritage through music and dance. 

To truly immerse yourself in nature while in Falun, take a wintertime trip to Bjursås Ski Center. This popular ski resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. 

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, Bjursås Ski Center promises unforgettable moments in the snow. Falun is an excellent place to explore if you want to experience the true essence of Swedish history, culture, and nature. 

This city has something for everyone, from its fascinating copper mine and charming wooden houses to its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant festivals. So, when planning your trip to Sweden, make sure to include Falun on your itinerary for an authentic and unforgettable experience. 

Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

If you’re planning a trip to Sweden, you must attend the Vasa Museum or Vasamuseet. Located in Stockholm, this unique museum houses the only almost fully intact 17th-century ship that has ever been salvaged. 

And let me tell you, it’s a sight to behold! As soon as you step inside the museum, you’ll be transported back in time to the year 1628 when this magnificent warship set sail. 

The Vasa Museum is truly a treasure trove of history and maritime wonder. The ship itself is an impressive sight with its towering masts and intricate carvings. 

It’s hard to believe that such a grand vessel sank on its maiden voyage due to design flaws. But thanks to an incredible salvage operation in the 20th century, we now marvel at its splendor. 

As you explore the museum, you’ll learn about the Vasa’s ill-fated journey and how it was rediscovered centuries later. The exhibits are incredibly well-curated and offer a fascinating glimpse into life during the 17th century. 

You’ll see everything from cannons and weapons to the crew members’ personal belongings. One of the highlights of visiting the Vasa Museum is getting up close and personal with this magnificent ship. 

You can walk around several levels of the vessel and even admire its ornate decorations up close. Imagine standing on the very same deck where sailors once stood centuries ago! 

To enhance your experience further, join one of their guided tours or audio guides available in multiple languages. These will provide valuable insights into each aspect of this historical masterpiece. 

In addition to exploring the ship itself, remember to visit other sections of the museum that showcase artifacts found during its excavation. You’ll find displays featuring everything from intricate models of ships similar to Vasa to interactive exhibits explaining naval warfare during that era. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or someone looking to uncover Sweden’s rich heritage, the Vasa Museum is an absolute must-visit. It offers a unique and immersive experience that will leave you in awe of this magnificent ship’s sheer craftsmanship and resilience. 

So, when planning your Sweden vacation, add the Vasa Museum to your itinerary. It’s truly an unmissable destination that perfectly captures the essence of Sweden’s maritime history. 

Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is a true gem hidden in the outskirts of Stockholm, the largest city in Sweden. With its vast gardens and rich history, this stunning palace is an ideal place to visit in Sweden if you want to immerse yourself in royal grandeur. As you approach the palace, you can’t help but marvel at its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Mälaren. 

The palace has been a summer residence of the Swedish royal family since the late 17th century. Once inside Drottningholm Palace, prepare to be transported back in time as you explore its lavish interiors. 

The rooms are adorned with exquisite furniture, intricate tapestries, and beautiful chandeliers that showcase the opulence of past eras. Take advantage of visiting the Chinese Pavilion, a charming addition to the palace grounds built as a birthday gift for Queen Lovisa Ulrika in 1753. 

The expansive gardens surrounding Drottningholm Palace are truly mesmerizing. They are designed in French baroque style and offer a serene escape from bustling city life. 

Take a leisurely stroll along neatly trimmed hedges or find a quiet spot near the ornate fountains to relax and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. If you visit during spring or summer, you’ll be greeted by vibrant blooms and blossoming flowers that add splashes of color throughout the landscape. 

While Drottningholm Palace is undoubtedly majestic, it’s worth venturing beyond its walls to discover more hidden treasures nearby. One such gem is the charming town of Visby on Gotland Island, which boasts well-preserved medieval walls and cobblestone streets that transport you back to Viking times. 

Another remarkable place worth exploring is Abisko National Park in far north Sweden; this untouched wilderness offers breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes. If sandy beaches are your thing, head south towards Skåne, where you’ll find some of Sweden’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. 

The archipelago towns that line its shores, such as Ystad and Helsingborg, offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation. On the other hand, if you’re seeking adventure amidst nature, Abisko National Park is a haven for hiking enthusiasts with its well-marked trails and awe-inspiring vistas. 

Drottningholm Palace is an absolute must-visit when exploring Sweden. Its grandeur, both inside and out, will leave you in awe of the country’s regal past. 

Combined with the surrounding natural beauty and nearby towns steeped in history, such as Visby or those along Skåne’s coast, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. So don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in Swedish heritage and create lasting memories. 

Swedish Lapland

Swedish Lapland is an absolute gem when it comes to exploring the picturesque landscapes of Sweden. This vast region, located in the far north, is one of Sweden’s best places to visit. 

It encompasses stunning natural beauty, charming towns that line its shores, and unique cultural experiences that will leave you in awe. One of the must-visit destinations in Swedish Lapland is Kiruna. 

This lively town is known for its breathtaking scenery and being home to the famous Icehotel. Yes, you heard it right! 

The Ice Hotel offers an extraordinary experience where you can spend a night in a room made entirely of ice and snow. It’s an adventure like no other! 

Abisko National Park should be on your list if you’re a nature enthusiast. This national park is located just northwest of Kiruna and boasts incredible hiking trails through scenic valleys and majestic mountains. 

One highlight is the dramatic Torneträsk Lake, which offers stunning views at any time of year. For those seeking peace and tranquility amidst nature’s beauty, head to Lilla Lule River Valley. 

This picturesque valley spans from Kiruna down to Luleå on the coastlines of Bothnia Bay. The river flows through lush forests and charming villages that offer a perfect escape from city life. 

Another excellent place to experience Swedish Lapland’s natural wonders is Jokkmokk. Famous for its annual winter market dating back over 400 years, this small town is a gateway to explore Sarek National Park and its rugged mountain landscapes. 

Whether you’re into hiking or simply want to immerse yourself in untouched wilderness, Jokkmokk won’t disappoint. Last but not least on our journey through Swedish Lapland is Haparanda-Tornio – a unique twin town straddling both Sweden and Finland along the coastline of Bothnia Bay. 

Here, you can witness two cultures blending seamlessly, enjoy sandy beaches (yes, in the far north!), and explore the fascinating history of this border region. Swedish Lapland truly offers a diverse range of experiences. 

This region is worth visiting, from the pristine wilderness to charming towns and cultural marvels. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique wonders Swedish Lapland offers. 

Lake Vättern

Lake Vättern, located in southern Sweden, is a stunning natural wonder that should be at the top of your list when planning your Swedish vacation. Stretching over 120 kilometers in length and with depths reaching up to 128 meters, it is no wonder that Lake Vättern is considered one of Sweden’s largest lakes. This picturesque lake offers many activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. 

For those seeking adventure in nature, Lake Vättern is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and nature reserves. The shoreline is adorned with beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip during the summer months. 

If you’re a water sports fan, try kayaking or sailing in the calm waters of the lake. Fishing enthusiasts will also find themselves in paradise here, as Lake Vättern is known for its rich variety of fish species. 

One notable highlight near Lake Vättern is Malmö, a vibrant city just a short distance away. After exploring the lake’s wonders, you can venture into this captivating city to experience its unique blend of modern architecture and rich history. 

Visit Malmö’s iconic Turning Torso skyscraper and stroll along its charming canal-lined streets. If you’re interested in immersing yourself in local culture while visiting Lake Vättern, consider visiting the charming cities and towns along its shores. 

One town worth exploring is Vadstena, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and historic sites like Vadstena Castle. Another town worth visiting is Jönköping, which offers a delightful mix of picturesque lakeside promenades and vibrant shopping districts. 

For those traveling with family or looking for excitement during their stay at Lake Vättern, look no further than Gränna. This charming little town on the lake’s eastern shore boasts stunning views and the famous Polkagris candy factory. 

Take a tour, watch the skilled artisans handcraft colorful candy canes, and treat yourself to some delicious sweets. To make the most of your visit to Lake Vättern, consider exploring nearby attractions. 

The enchanting island of Öland, located just off the coast in the Baltic Sea, is easily accessible from Lake Vättern and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Additionally, you can venture further north to experience the magical landscapes of Dalarna or head towards Sweden’s Arctic region, Swedish Lapland. 

Lake Vättern is undoubtedly a must-visit place in Sweden. Its stunning natural beauty, proximity to captivating cities and towns like Malmö and Vadstena, and an array of outdoor activities offer something for every traveler. 

Whether you are seeking tranquility in nature reserves or looking for thrilling adventures on sandy beaches or historic towns along its shores, Lake Vättern will leave an indelible mark on your Swedish vacation memories. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Sweden’s most captivating destinations! 

Laponia is a hidden gem in Sweden that deserves to be on every traveler’s bucket list . Tucked away in the northern part of the country, Laponia offers a unique and unforgettable experience. With its pristine wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this region is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers alike. 

Laponia has four national parks : Sarek, Padjelanta, Muddus, and Stora Sjöfallet. These parks are part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and showcase the area’s outstanding natural beauty. 

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy being surrounded by untouched nature, Laponia has it. The vast mountain ranges, deep valleys, roaring rivers, and lush forests will leave you awe-inspired at every turn. 

One of the highlights of Laponia is its connection to Sami culture. The Sami people are indigenous to this region and have a rich tradition that dates back thousands of years. 

Immerse yourself in their way of life by visiting traditional Sami villages and learning about their reindeer herding practices. You’ll be able to interact with locals, hear fascinating stories passed down through generations, and even try some authentic Sami cuisine. 

A visit to Laponia wouldn’t be complete without witnessing one of Sweden’s most magical phenomena – the midnight sun. During summer, the sun never fully sets in this part of Sweden. 

Instead, it hangs low on the horizon, creating an otherworldly glow that bathes the landscape in an ethereal light throughout the night. Imagine hiking under this surreal illumination or enjoying a peaceful boat ride on one of Laponia’s stunning lakes – an experience you won’t find anywhere else. 

For history enthusiasts, a trip to Laponia presents an opportunity to explore ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years. These mysterious and intricate carvings provide a glimpse into the lives of past civilizations, offering a fascinating insight into Sweden’s ancient heritage. 

Laponia is also home to the famous Luleå archipelago, consisting of over 1,300 islands in the Baltic Sea. This picturesque cluster of islands offers a perfect place to relax and unwind. 

Stroll along the sandy beaches, indulge in delicious seafood, or simply bask in the tranquility only island life offers. Laponia is undoubtedly one of Sweden’s top destinations for those seeking an adventure off the beaten path. 

With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique experiences like witnessing the midnight sun or exploring Sami traditions, Laponia has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply crave a break from city life, make sure to put Laponia on your travel radar – it’s a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for Sweden’s natural wonders. 

Smögen

Smögen is an absolute gem on the west coast of Sweden. It’s a picturesque fishing village transporting you to a world of quaint charm and stunning natural beauty. 

With its colorful wooden houses, bustling harbor, and breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea, Smögen is the epitome of Swedish coastal living. One of the highlights of Smögen is its bustling boardwalk, lined with charming shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants. 

You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and indulging in local delicacies like freshly caught shrimp or smoked salmon. Remember to grab an ice cream cone as you explore this delightful spot! 

For nature enthusiasts, Smögen offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can take a boat tour around the archipelago, exploring hidden coves and idyllic islands. 

The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous. If you prefer to stay on land, hiking trails lead to beautiful viewpoints where you can admire the stunning coastal landscapes. 

If you’re visiting during summer, catch one of Smögen’s legendary sunsets. As dusk falls over the village, everything is bathed in a warm golden light, creating an enchanting ambiance. 

Find a spot on one of the seaside cliffs or enjoy a sunset picnic by the water – it’s truly a magical experience. Smögen is undoubtedly worth a visit if you’re planning a holiday to Sweden. 

It may not be as well-known as some of Sweden’s bigger cities and towns like Stockholm or Gothenburg, but its unique charm should be noticed. Whether you want to relax by the sea, immerse yourself in nature, or simply soak up some authentic Swedish culture, Smögen is ideal for all those experiences and more! 

High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago

The High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago is an absolute gem regarding natural beauty in Sweden. Located along the coast of the High Coast in northern Sweden and Kvarken, which stretches into Finland , this area has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. And boy, does it deserve the title! 

Prepare to be awestruck by its breathtaking scenery and unique geological features. One of the main attractions here is the High Coast, a stunning stretch of coastline characterized by towering cliffs and beautiful forested areas. 

Hiking enthusiasts will be in paradise as they traverse the well-marked trails that wind through this incredible landscape. Keep your camera ready because you’ll want to capture every awe-inspiring view. 

If you’re into wildlife, you won’t be disappointed either! The archipelago is home to various species of birds, including sea eagles and peregrine falcons. 

Birdwatching enthusiasts will have a field day here, trying to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during wintertime, watch for the elusive northern lights dancing across the sky – a truly magical experience! 

To complete your trip, take advantage of exploring some charming islands that make up this archipelago. Öland and Gotland are two popular destinations worth visiting. 

Öland is known for its stunning beaches and historical sites such as Borgholm Castle, while Gotland boasts picturesque medieval towns like Visby with its well-preserved city walls and cobblestone streets. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking mesmerizing landscapes or a nature lover eager to witness captivating wildlife, the High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago should be on your travel bucket list when visiting Sweden. 

It’s a place of outstanding natural beauty and a testament to Sweden’s commitment to preserving its remarkable heritage for future generations to enjoy. So pack your bags, grab a camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this remarkable part of Sweden! 

Hold up! Have you thought about the importance of travel insurance?

Remember this:  anything can happen. Travel is fun, but your health is more important; thus, I always, always, always recommend getting insured during the duration of your trip. I have benefitted from having one multiple times, and it has been covered for thousands of euros!

The latest one is not necessarily “health” related – it was during the peak of the unspeakable terrible C that consumed the world. I was living in Vietnam when I received an email from SafetyWing (my travel insurance) that if I want they’ll fly be back home to Finland as the world goes through a global emergency alert. I flew back fully covered, and dealing with  SafetyWing  was a breeze despite the roar of people in contact with them trying to get back home.

I can’t highly recommend them enough. Otherwise, I rarely get sick; hence I don’t always need to head to a hospital, but knowing that I have travel insurance makes me feel safe at the very least.

Read my post about  why you should get travel insurance  for more information. Otherwise, you can get a free quote from  SafetyWing  – they’re the best, in my opinion.

Located in central Sweden, Vasteras is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. As one of the largest cities in Sweden, it boasts numerous attractions that cater to diverse interests. 

If you’re an art enthusiast, visit the Vasteras Art Museum. This charming museum houses an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional artworks from both local and international artists. 

Wander through the various galleries and immerse yourself in the world of art. Another must-visit attraction in Vasteras is the captivating Uppsala Cathedral. 

Just a short drive from the city center, this stunning cathedral is one of the oldest and largest in Northern Europe . Its Gothic architecture and intricate details will leave you in awe as you explore its grand halls and chapels. 

Remember to climb the tower for spectacular panoramic views of Vasteras and its surrounding landscapes. For those seeking adventure, head over to Anundshög – an ancient burial mound just outside Vasteras. 

This historical site dates back to prehistoric times and offers a glimpse into Sweden’s rich past. Take a walk among these ancient structures and let your imagination run wild as you learn about their fascinating history. 

Vasteras is one of southern Sweden’s best destinations for history buffs and art lovers alike! The city’s picturesque streets are lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and beautifully preserved old buildings that add to its unique character. 

Whether you’re strolling along Lake Malaren or exploring its bustling city center, Vasteras will surely leave an indelible mark on your travel memories. Plan your trip wisely as each season brings charm – from vibrant spring blossoms to cozy winter festivities – but no matter when you visit, this Swedish gem promises an unforgettable experience! 

Gripsholm Castle

When exploring the enchanting country of Sweden, Gripsholm Castle should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Located in the small town of Mariefred, this magnificent castle stands proudly beside Lake Mälaren. 

Stepping inside its walls feels like stepping back in time, as it is rich in history and beautifully preserved. Gripsholm Castle was built in the 16th century and was a royal residence for many Swedish monarchs. 

As you wander through its various rooms and hallways, you can marvel at the impressive architecture and intricate details that have been well-preserved over the centuries. The castle also houses a fascinating museum showcasing a vast art collection, including masterpieces from renowned Swedish artists. 

One of the highlights of visiting Gripsholm Castle is its stunning location by Lake Mälaren. The castle’s picturesque setting makes it an excellent place to relax and enjoy nature. 

During the summer, you can take a leisurely boat ride on the lake or even swim if you’re feeling adventurous. Additionally, Mariefred is a charming town worth exploring with its cobblestone streets and traditional Swedish houses. 

Gripsholm Castle is a captivating destination in Sweden that offers historical richness and natural beauty. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply seeking to immerse yourself in Sweden’s rich heritage, this enchanting castle should be noticed during your visit to this remarkable country. 

Umeå, located in northern Sweden, is a vibrant city that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Known as the “City of Birches,” Umeå is surrounded by picturesque forests and scenic landscapes. 

One of the highlights of visiting Umeå is its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and environmentally conscious travelers. When exploring Umeå, a must-visit attraction is the impressive Umeå University. 

As one of Sweden’s top universities, it attracts students from all over and abroad. The campus is stunning, with modern architecture blending harmoniously with the surrounding greenery. 

Take a leisurely stroll through the university grounds, admire the innovative buildings, and soak in the academic atmosphere. For those interested in history and culture, Umeå has several museums worth exploring. 

The Västerbotten Museum showcases exhibitions on local history and culture, offering insights into the traditions and heritage of this region. Another notable museum is Bildmuseet, an art museum known for its contemporary exhibitions featuring national and international artists. 

Take your time to appreciate thought-provoking artworks that reflect various aspects of Swedish society. Umeå also boasts beautiful green spaces besides its cultural offerings, such as its Botanical Garden. 

This tranquil oasis allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature while discovering various plant species from different regions worldwide. Stroll through lush gardens filled with colorful flowers or find a quiet spot to relax amidst serene surroundings. 

Whether wandering through charming streets downtown or taking a ferry ride along nearby islands such as Holmön or Norrbyskär, Umeå offers something for everyone. This lively city effortlessly blends nature with urban life while remaining true to its roots as one of Sweden’s culturally significant destinations.” 

Siljan Lake

Siljan Lake is an absolute gem when it comes to picturesque destinations in Sweden. Nestled in the heart of Dalarna County, this stunning lake is surrounded by charming towns and lush greenery that truly make it a sight to behold. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking tranquility, Siljan Lake offers a perfect retreat. 

Surrounding the lake are several idyllic towns that are worth exploring. One such town is Mora, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. 

Mora is home to the famous Dalarna horse, a symbol of Sweden’s traditional craftsmanship. Stroll through the charming streets lined with wooden houses painted in vibrant colors, visit the Zorn Museum dedicated to renowned artist Anders Zorn, or take a boat ride along the lake’s calm waters. 

Another highlight of Siljan Lake is Tällberg village, perched on a hill overlooking the shimmering waters below. This quaint village exudes a magical atmosphere with its traditional Swedish architecture and breathtaking views. 

Explore its narrow cobblestone streets adorned with beautifully preserved wooden houses, many of which have been converted into cozy hotels and guesthouses. Immerse yourself in Swedish culture by indulging in local delicacies at one of Tällberg’s charming restaurants or cafes. 

To truly experience Siljan Lake’s natural beauty, venture onto its serene waters. Rent a kayak or hop on board one of the traditional wooden boats that offer guided tours around the lake. 

As you glide through the crystal-clear water surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, take in the tranquil ambiance and let your worries melt away. Siljan Lake truly encapsulates the essence of Sweden’s enchanting countryside—a place where time seems to stand still amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. 

It’s no wonder this hidden gem has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. So, if you’re planning your next Sweden vacation, take advantage of Siljan Lake. 

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this destination has something for everyone. Add it to your itinerary and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and serenity of Siljan Lake and its surrounding towns. 

Göta Canal

If you’re looking to explore the picturesque beauty of Sweden, one place you won’t want to miss is the Göta Canal. Stretching from Stockholm to Gothenburg, this stunning waterway is ideal for immersing yourself in Sweden’s rich history while enjoying breathtaking scenery. 

The Göta Canal, often called the “blue ribbon” of Sweden, cuts through the country’s heartland and connects several lakes and rivers. It was constructed in the early 19th century as a major transportation route, but today, it is a leisurely tourist attraction . 

Whether you take a relaxing boat cruise or rent a kayak for a more adventurous journey, exploring this historic canal is an unforgettable experience. As you sail along the Göta Canal, you’ll pass through charming cities and towns that have preserved their old-world charm. 

One such town is Söderköping, located on the eastern coast of Sweden. With its cobblestone streets and colorful wooden houses, Söderköping is like stepping back in time. 

Take a stroll along Storgatan Street with its quaint shops and cafes, or visit the famous ice cream parlor that has been delighting visitors since 1927. Another highlight along the Göta Canal is Vadstena, known for its well-preserved medieval castle and abbey. 

This small town offers glimpses into Sweden’s fascinating past with its narrow streets lined with traditional Swedish houses. Explore Vadstena Castle, which dates back to the 16th century and provides panoramic views of Lake Vättern. 

Don’t miss out on visiting Vadstena Abbey either – it’s one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval monastic complexes. The Göta Canal truly showcases the scenic beauty and captivating cities that Sweden has to offer. 

From historical landmarks like Söderköping and Vadstena to breathtaking landscapes along Lake Vättern, this waterway guarantees an unforgettable journey through the heart of Sweden. So, grab your camera and set sail on the iconic Göta Canal – a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the wonders of this stunning country. 

Luleå

Luleå, located in the northernmost part of Sweden, is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility. This vibrant city boasts a rich history and many attractions that captivate visitors. One of the highlights of Luleå is its stunning natural beauty, which makes it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

During the summer months, Luleå comes alive with various activities and events. One must-visit spot is Gammelstad Church Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

This open-air church village dates back to the 14th century and showcases well-preserved wooden houses surrounding the impressive Nederluleå Church. It’s fascinating to wander through the narrow streets and imagine life in medieval times. 

For those interested in exploring Luleå’s wildlife, a visit to Storforsen Nature Reserve is highly recommended. Here, you can witness Europe’s largest unregulated waterfall as it cascades down mighty rapids. 

The area surrounding Storforsen is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for hiking and birdwatching. In addition to its natural wonders, Luleå offers cultural attractions that are worth exploring. 

Visit Kulturens Hus, Luleå’s cultural center, which annually hosts various art exhibitions, performances, concerts, and theater shows. The Norrbotten Museum provides insight into the region’s history with exhibits on Sami culture (the indigenous people of northern Sweden) and displays showcasing local traditions. 

Another must-see attraction near Luleå is the famous Treehotel in Harads village—just an hour’s drive from the city center. This one-of-a-kind accommodation offers unique treehouses suspended high among towering pine trees. 

A stay at Treehotel provides an extraordinary experience and stunning views of Northern Sweden’s wilderness. Luleå is also an excellent base for exploring the mesmerizing phenomenon of the midnight sun. 

During the summer, the sun remains visible 24 hours a day, creating an otherworldly experience that is hard to put into words. You can take a boat tour to nearby islands or simply relax on one of Luleå’s many beaches, where you can enjoy the sunshine anytime. 

To immerse yourself in Luleå’s cultural scene, don’t miss out on attending Musikens Hus, a music venue that hosts various concerts and performances throughout the year. Additionally, Luleå offers a culinary delight with its numerous restaurants serving traditional Swedish dishes as well as international cuisine. 

Luleå is a destination that should not be overlooked during your Sweden vacation. Its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and unique experiences, like witnessing the midnight sun, make it a truly memorable place. 

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or want to explore historical sites and indulge in local cuisine, Luleå has something for everyone. So hop on a ferry or take a flight and embark on an unforgettable journey to this remarkable city in northern Sweden. 

Helsingborg

Helsingborg, located in southern Sweden, is a captivating city that offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Sitting on the east coast of the Oresund Strait, Helsingborg is a vibrant port city with a rich heritage. 

One of its most prominent attractions is the medieval fortress, Kärnan. This tower dates back to the 14th century and offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. 

The tower also houses a museum that delves into Helsingborg’s history. Strolling through Helsingborg’s well-preserved city center is like stepping back in time. 

The cobbled streets are lined with charming buildings that showcase architectural styles from different eras. One particularly noteworthy structure is Dunkers Kulturhus, an art gallery and cultural center hosting exhibitions and concerts annually. 

It’s common to stumble upon vibrant street performances or bustling markets while wandering around. For those seeking natural beauty, Helsingborg has plenty to offer as well. 

Just outside the city lies Sofiero Palace and Gardens, an enchanting park known for its stunning flower displays during the summer months. This former royal residence boasts beautifully manicured lawns, peaceful walking trails, and breathtaking views of the Oresund Strait. 

Visitors can picnic in one of the picturesque lakeside spots or enjoy a leisurely stroll through this botanical paradise. In addition to its own attractions, Helsingborg serves as an excellent base for exploring other nearby destinations in Sweden. 

It’s conveniently situated close to both Malmö and Gothenburg – two top cities worth visiting in their own right – making it an ideal starting point for exploring west Sweden. Furthermore, it’s possible to take day trips to beautiful places such as Lake Siljan in central Sweden or even venture up north to Abisko National Park for unforgettable hiking experiences. 

Helsingborg combines a rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural surroundings to offer visitors a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the city’s past, enjoying its vibrant cultural scene, or exploring the nearby attractions, Helsingborg is a must-visit destination in Sweden. 

Halmstad, a charming city on Sweden’s west coast, is a perfect place to experience the beauty of nature and explore its rich history. One of the highlights of Halmstad is its picturesque botanical garden, which boasts a stunning collection of flowers and plants from around the world. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this garden offers a serene setting to relax and unwind. 

For those interested in history, Halmstad is home to several fascinating attractions. The Halmstad Castle, dating back to the 17th century, is a testament to the city’s rich past. 

Take a guided tour through its historic rooms and learn about the archbishop of Sweden who once resided here. Another must-visit spot is the captivating Halland Art Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of contemporary Swedish art. 

In addition to its cultural offerings, Halmstad is blessed with beautiful beaches that attract visitors from near and far. Tylosand Beach is particularly popular during summer months when locals and tourists flock to enjoy sun-soaked days on its golden sands. 

Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or partake in water activities like swimming or beach volleyball. With its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational opportunities, Halmstad is worth visiting for anyone planning their Sweden vacation. 

Whether you choose to explore its scenic surroundings by hiking through nearby nature reserves or immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Malmö or Kalmar – two other charming Swedish towns easily accessible from Halmstad – there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this captivating city by the sea.

The Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is a gem you shouldn’t miss when exploring Sweden. It stretches across the Baltic Sea and consists of over 30,000 islands and islets. 

Can you believe that? It’s like a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. 

Picture this: crystal clear waters, lush greenery, and picturesque landscapes as far as the eye can see. The Stockholm Archipelago offers a perfect place to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

It’s no wonder why this region attracts both locals and tourists year-round. One of the must-visit spots in the archipelago is Vaxholm, known as the “Gateway to the Archipelago.” This charming town boasts quaint red wooden houses that date back to the 17th century. 

Take a leisurely stroll along its narrow streets, visit local cafes serving delicious Swedish pastries, and explore Vaxholm Fortress – a historical gem offering stunning views of the surrounding islands. Another highlight of the Stockholm Archipelago is Sandhamn Island. 

This idyllic summer retreat was once a favorite spot for Swedish royalty as their summer residence. Today, it welcomes visitors with its sandy beaches, charming harbor lined with yachts, and vibrant atmosphere during summer months. 

Explore its hiking trails or rent a kayak to explore hidden coves around this stunning island. But certainly not least is Grinda Island – an oasis away from urban life where tranquility reigns supreme. 

This peaceful island offers unspoiled nature at its best – dense forests, rocky cliffs, and scenic bays perfect for swimming or sunbathing on warm summer days. If you want to immerse yourself in Sweden’s natural beauty and rich history, don’t miss out on exploring The Stockholm Archipelago. 

With its countless islands, each offering unique experiences and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder why it tops many travelers’ lists of must-visit places in Sweden. So pack your bags, set sail to this remarkable destination, and let the archipelago take your breath away. 

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

As a frequent traveler, I’ve learned a lot throughout my years of travel, and there are five items that I always carry with me regardless of where I go and how long the trip is. Here are my five travel must-haves!

• Warm packable jacket  – I always carry a light jacket, even when heading to warm countries. There hasn’t been a time I never used it, especially in airports and planes.
• Transparent toiletry bag  – I often bring a carry-on if I’m only traveling within Europe for a few days. Life is so much easier to go through security checks with a transparent toiletry bag.
• Kindle Paperwhite  – I love a good read and always take my Kindle everywhere. It keeps me entertained during long flights and waiting times.
• Powerbank  – I don’t know how I could travel without one! Having a power bank saved me a ton since I carry a lot of electronic devices with me.
• Travel Adapter  – I never leave my luggage without a travel adapter! I carry one with me all the time. It is just one of that travel-must haves that doesn’t hurt to have in your bag at all times.

So, are you planning to visit Sweden soon?

Sweden is truly a remarkable country with many amazing places to visit. From the picturesque beauty of Smögen and the stunning archipelagos like the High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago and Stockholm Archipelago to the historical charm of cities like Vasteras and Helsingborg, there is something for everyone in this Scandinavian gem. 

If you’re a history buff, explore Gripsholm Castle, a magnificent 17th-century fortress steeped in Swedish history. And for those seeking natural wonders, Siljan Lake offers breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. 

The adventurous souls should not skip Göta Canal, where you can embark on a scenic boat trip through beautiful landscapes. To taste modern Swedish culture and liveliness, visit Umeå and Luleå – two vibrant cities offering a range of activities from contemporary art exhibitions to bustling nightlife scenes. 

And if you crave relaxation by the sea, Halmstad provides sandy beaches and quaint coastal charm. I cannot conclude without mentioning the capital city Stockholm – an absolute must-visit destination. 

Stroll through Gamla Stan (the Old Town) with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings dating back centuries. Explore its historic sites, such as the Royal Palace, or immerse yourself in Swedish cuisine at one of the charming cafes or restaurants. 

Sweden has everything – from captivating natural landscapes to fascinating historical sites and vibrant cities. It’s no wonder it ranks high among Europe’s 10 best places to visit. 

So pack your bags and get ready to experience this enchanting country firsthand – Sweden awaits your arrival! Remember: this is just an outline; please let me know if you would like me to include any specific changes or additions! 

Planning to visit Sweden? Check out these posts!

• Best time to visit Sweden
• Sweden Points of Interests:   Places to visit ,  Castles to visit ,  Islands to check out ,  National Parks to hike ,  UNESCO Sites ,  Museums to check out ,  Beaches to chill at ,  Hiking spots ,  Camping spots , and  Stockholm to Helsinki Ferry
• Stockholm Points of Interests:   Things to do in Stockholm ,  Day trips from Stockholm ,  How to get from the airport ,  Cafes to check out ,  Pubs to hang out ,  Museums to visit ,  Restaurants to try , and  Where to stay in Stockholm
• Swedish Culture Overview:   Tipping guide ,  Drinks to try ,  Supermarkets to do your groceries , and  Food to try
• Places to visit in Sweden:   Kalmar ,  Gammelstad ,  Ystad ,  Gothenburg ,  Uppsala ,  Malmö ,  Swedish Lapland ,  Luleå ,  Kosterhavet National Park ,  Gotland ,  Österlen ,  Lund , and  Skåne

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

14 thoughts on “30 Best Places to Visit in Sweden”

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27 Top Tourist Attractions in Sweden

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Modern innovation and timeless tradition merge effortlessly in Sweden. The Scandinavian country is home to contemporary cities that showcase the best of Sweden’s progressive mantra. Yet woven into the national tapestry is a strong link to its heritage.

In Stockholm, the Old Town takes you back to medieval times where classic half-timbered homes dot the cobbled streets. The same can be said for countryside villages and port towns, the latter blossoming under Hanseatic rule.

These towns are gems to explore while providing passage to enjoy a cuisine that’s hard to find anywhere else. As you continue to explore the best things to do in Sweden, you’ll see these regional centers choose to blend in with nature rather than be overbearing.

But Sweden’s attractions are not just found in its cities and town. With several amazing national parks , you’ll find easy access to the vast wilderness where the Northern Lights dance above the Arctic Circle.

27. Hike (part of) the Kungsleden

Translating to the King’s Trail, the Kungsleden is a famously long trail spanning 440 kilometers through Swedish Lapland from Hemavan to Abisko. In the style of the Appalachian Trail or PCT, Kungsleden is a challenging but utterly rewarding way to experience one of the world’s great landscapes.

Yes, I can hear you say, “we don’t have time for this”. Well, the good news is that there are some amazing overnight hikes that you can do. These make use of the trail’s hut amenities while allowing an alluring glimpse into the Lapland wilderness.

One of our favorite sections includes Kebnekaise to Abisko. This features a climb to Sweden’s highest peak and a look into Abisko National Park. Another is Singi to Sälka, which guides you into high alpine terrain and a hut with stunning panoramas.

26. ABBA The Museum

In Stockholm , ABBA The Museum represents one of the best ways to connect, learn about and celebrate one of the world’s best music groups. Starting out in the 1970s, ABBA quickly rose to fame on the back of their Eurovision victory and by the end of the decade, they reached global stardom.

You can retrace their meteoric rise with a little help from the museum’s wide array of interactive exhibits. Hands-on activities are set between multimedia installations that send you right back to the glory days.

Alongside these historic exhibits, such as memorabilia and costumes, visitors can enjoy virtual concerts and even a recording studio experience.

In southern Sweden, Ystad is yet another fabulous example of the country’s preserved medieval history. The picturesque port town rose to prominence as a member of the Hanseatic League, with its ancient cobblestone streets welcoming merchants and traders from across Europe.

This historic eye-catching architecture and culinary heritage continues to be a part of the visitor experience. One of Ystad’s most renowned landmarks is St. Mary’s Church. Dating back to the 1200s, the church features a head-turning Gothic design and great views from the bell tower.

Other highlights include the 13th century Ystad Abbey and the town’s celebrated art museum. This is set in a former monastery and harbors one of Sweden’s best contemporary art collections.

24. Øresund Bridge

One of Scandinavia’s most iconic structures, the Øresund Bridge, is a feat of engineering magnificence. Spanning over the Øresund Straight, the bridge begins as a tunnel before soaring above the water. It’s this change, when seen from above, that makes the bridge unforgettable.

Whether you’re flying into Malmo or Copenhagen, which are the bridge’s bookends, you’ll enjoy this magnificent view. But for an up-close experience, you can drive or cycle across it on an 8 kilometer journey. There are viewpoints along the way so you won’t have to back up traffic to admire the surroundings.

For the best vistas, combine your trip along the Øresund Bridge to coincide with sunrise or sunset.

23. Dog sledding in Lapland

The history of dog sledding in Lapland can be traced back to the 10th century when the indigenous Sámi first took the reigns. It evolved into a crucial part of their lifestyle surrounded by the bitter Arctic conditions.

Dog sledding has become a major part of the modern Lapland experience. It allows you not only to see the captivating landscapes but also connect to a traditional form of transport.

There is an abundance of dog sledding tours to choose from and it’s important to understand your goals before choosing one. Tours span from several hours (great for first-timers) to multi-day expeditions in a tough environment. Whichever direction you go, it promises to be an immersive experience in a winter wonderland.

22. Eat a smörgåsbord

Swedish cuisine may not have spread around the world like Italian or Greek. But it promises to become one of the more memorable aspects of your Scandinavian adventure. At the center of this is the classic Swedish smörgåsbord.

This is a buffet of local eats piled onto several plates and served up for your relishing tongue. The combo of dishes are both hot and cold, and while they can be expensive, it offers crazy overall value.

So with all this food in front of you, where should you start? Well, we recommend starting with the akvavit, a distilled liquor that cleanses the palate. From there, simply dive picking on the assortment of ages, cheeses, herring and salmon. All before finishing with a coffee, yep you heard that right!

21. Little Square, Malmo

In southern Sweden and a stone’s throw from Denmark, Malmo evokes a historic aura and effortless charm. Old-time architecture and cobblestone streets guide you throughout, yet no matter how you plan your time here, the road always leads to Little Square.

Also known as Lilla Torg, this convivial hub for socialization is Little Square’s modern iteration. It dates back to 1592 and has long been a market square encased in picturesque timbered homes. The aesthetically pleasing architecture remains on display today, combined with an array of cafe patios and restaurants serving up smörgåsbord.

There is something cozy about Little Square. It’s a warm, tight hug and provides that sense of community, even for travelers simply passing through. Stick around for a drink, as the lights dim in the square’s bars and the locals descend on the square for a Norrlands Guld.

20. Gammelstad Church Town

On the outskirts of Luleå, in Northern Sweden, Gammelstad Church Town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. The town is a living reminder of a traditional and rural Scandinavian village.

At its heart is the Nederluleå Church which was first constructed in the late 1400s. The church remains in use today, standing as beautiful as it did 500+ years ago.

Surrounding the church are over 400 traditional wooden homes that allow you to see life as it was in the Middle Ages. The church town concept isn’t rare in Scandinavia and it represents the spiritual hub of the surrounding countryside, bringing folks together for religious events and markets.

19. Ride the Inlandsbanan

Coursing through the inland areas of Sweden from south to north, the Inlandsbanan is one of the most fun things to do in Sweden. Originally built to transport timber and minerals, it has switched to providing passengers with a scenic route through remarkable countryside, stopping at memorable villages along the way.

On the shores of Lake Vänern, the train first departs from Kristinehamn. On its journey north to Swedish Lapland, the train ventures through diverse landscapes at a slow pace, allowing plenty of time to take in the vistas.

Alongside some notable towns like Jokkmokk, the journey takes you to hidden gems like Vilhelmina and Arvidsjaur. The year-round train also allows you to see Sweden in all four seasons.

18. Volvo Museum, Gothenburg

We all remember growing up and seeing the Volvo as a symbol of safety over elegance. While I’ll admit, they look a whole lot cooler these days, the car manufacturer’s history has always been an interesting one.

In Gothenburg , the Volvo Museum explores the history of the brand, just across from the headquarters. The museum opened in 1995, almost 70 years after the first car was developed and allows you to retrace its evolution.

Within you’ll find a memorable collection of vehicles from each era. It’s fun to see how things have changed, with each step representing Volvo’s preeminent vision of safety, including their creation of the three-point seatbelt.

17. Cross the Arctic Circle

A symbolic experience crossing the Arctic Circle gives you chills. Although you cannot see the border, you can certainly sense that things are about to change. It’s just like being at the top of a rollercoaster.

At 0.26 degrees south of the Arctic Circle, Jokkmokk is the gateway town. At the border itself, you’ll find a marker, but you’ll see the travelers snapping pictures with it first. From there, you’ll cross into the Arctic Circle and the official entrance into a world of extreme winter conditions.

Southern Sweden experiences around 18 hours of daylight in the summer. But up here, the sun never descends below the horizon, simply playing a stunning game as it threatens to dip out of view but never does.

16. See the Northern Lights

Also known as the Aurora Borealis, Sweden is one of the best destinations to see the Northern Lights. This is especially true as you head north and into the Arctic Circle.

There are a handful of notable locations to see this ethereal, colorful dance take place. Many of them are featured in this guide. One of our favorites is the Abisko National Park. With its own microclimate, a sky station and minimal light pollution, it’s a prime spot for Northern Lights.

Other options include Kiruna and Jokkmokk. The former is one of the northernmost towns in Sweden and home to the Ice Hotel. Jokkomokk, renowned for its winter market, also puts on a spectacular light display.

But wherever you go, the best time to see the Northern Lights is at the height of winter. Be sure to also check the forecast for clear skies.

15. Sarek National Park

In Swedish Lapland, Sarek National Park is an untamed wilderness home to jagged peaks and deep valleys carved by surging rivers. Raw and captivating, this pristine nature is an authentic look at life within the Arctic Circle.

Visitors should get an arm workout as they pick up their jaw off the floor for the 20th time. You’ll be awe-struck by the towering peaks shaped by ancient glaciers. These flow to crystal-clear lakes home to glacial till that creates spectacular colors.

Hiking trails snake throughout, with many being advanced treks through rugged terrains and to challenging summits. Along the way, you may spot reindeer, arctic foxes, bears and migratory birds.

14. Uppsala Domkyrka

Entwined in the religious and cultural history of Sweden, Uppsala Domkyrka dominates the skyline in Uppsala . Across from the Fyris River, the cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and the largest of its kind in the country.

The cathedral’s first stone was placed in 1270, but improvements continued over the following centuries. This has given Uppsala Domkyrka a delectable blend of medieval craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

After stepping through the ancient wooden doors, time starts to stand still as you begin to explore living history. Stained glass stands among the vaulted ceilings awash with celestial motifs.

As you continue to experience the spiritual ambiance, your steps will take you up a spiral staircase to the top of the tower. Here, your exceptional vantage point provides memorable city views.

13. Vasa Museum

In the nation’s capital, the Vasa Museum is a time capsule that explores Sweden’s rich maritime heritage. Inside the enormous building are over 40,000 artifacts from the belongings of all sailors, ancient sculptures and monstrous cannons.

However, at the center of the museum, experience is the most important piece. One that gave the museum its name, was the ill-fated Vasa warship. The building had to be large enough to house the ship, rescued from the bottom of the city’s harbor in 1961.

This salvage of the wreck was almost 300 years from when it sank on its maiden voyage. Incredibly, the ship was well-preserved by the seas. With the help of restoration, it’s all but returned to its former glory.

12. Åre Ski Resort

It’s safe to say, winter gems and Sweden go hand in hand. But in northern Sweden, close to Norway, is the country’s premier ski destination.

Åre Ski Resort is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, rugged snow-capped peaks that descend to vast frozen lakes. It’s all the more reason to ditch the more famous Alps and ski right here.

The resort’s extensive ski terrain targets all levels of ability. Off-piste terrain and groomers dance between each other, while cross-country trails allow you to get away from it all.

Come the last lift, you won’t be upset to return to the charming Åre village. Old-time timber buildings now feature bars for all your après-ski action.

11. Gamla Stan

The Old Town of Stockholm , Gamla Stan, can lay claim to being one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe. The enchanting allure of Gamla Stan is clear from the start. Your first steps here come on ancient cobblestone streets, guided through narrow passages and by buildings that stood in the 1200s.

Some 800 years later, the Old Town’s streets remain easy on the eye. The colorful buildings create a refined tapestry of architecture with facades showcasing a mix of rustic red, mustard and old ochre. Then there’s the opulence of the Stockholm Cathedral and baroque Royal Palace.

Soon you’ll reach Stortorget Square, where old merchant houses have been transformed into a cultural hub. Markets, cafes and restaurants bring the city together.

10. Kalmar Castle

On Sweden’s east coast, Kalmar Castle is a reminder of regional strength throughout the Middle Ages. But it’s the castle’s Renaissance elegance that makes it worth a visit.

The castle’s story begins in the 1100s as a defensive stronghold along the Kalmar Strait. In fact, the castle was pivotal in Sweden, Denmark and Norway uniting under a single monarch. This ended in the 16th century, but led to a Renaissance-era makeover for the castle.

Now one of the top tourist attractions in Sweden, you can see the fruits of this makeover as you bounce between the prominent defensive structures and the interior elegance. Within you’ll find museums and period rooms laden with artifacts, telling the stories of the past. From the top of the castle’s towers, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the strait.

9. Try real Swedish Meatballs

The Swedish köttbullar rose has long been entwined in local culinary traditions. But they took a fresh step in the 18th century when the exiled King Charles XII returned from the Ottoman Empire, having discovered kofte.

Today, the meatballs remain a staple in Swedish households and there are endless ways to get among the action. As usual, the best way to try real Swedish meatballs is to find an authentic setting. Short of being invited into a home, you can try a local market or traditional restaurant.

The key to enjoying this mouthwatering culinary masterpiece is choosing the right accompaniments. One must add some lingonberry sauce, a dash of gravy and a handy side of creamy mashed potatoes.

8. Lund Domkyrka

The soaring spires of the Lund Domkyrka pierce the sky’s ceiling and dominate any view of Lund, Sweden. You can trace the beloved cathedral back to the 1100s and today it remains laden with ancient treasures.

From the outside, it’s easy to lose track of time reveling in the spires, the intricate facade and Gothic architecture. But soon whispers of the sacred will hit your ears and you’ll be drawn inside.

It’s then you’ll spot the true riches of the Lund Cathedral as the medieval frescoes welcome you alongside captivating vaulted ceilings showcasing the cathedral’s timeless brilliance. Continue on to see the still-running medieval Astronomical Clock. All before a visit to the crypt where ancient bishops have been laid to rest.

7. Jokkmokk Winter Market

In Swedish Lapland, the Jokkmokk Winter Market dates back to the early 17th century. For over 400 years, the market has brought together the community and celebrated the Sámi heritage.

Held in February, under the cold night sky, the winter market transforms the otherwise sleepy town into a thriving spectacle. For travelers, it’s an opportunity to experience life and culture in wintry Lapland, while indulging in a fascinating local culture.

As you wander between the stalls, you’ll find locals will be adorned in vibrant Sámi attire plus traditional Sámi crafts and cuisine. At the top of the list of eats should be the reindeer stew and customary smoked fish.

Under the rule of the Hanseatic League, it became a prominent trading port on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Merchants and crew flooded the bustling cobbled streets, and the league developed fortified walls around the thriving city. All of this and more remains to be discovered today.

Visby lies on the idyllic island of Gotland and is a veritable testament to the appealing strength of the Hanseatic League. Today, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its historic walls are remarkably well-preserved.

As you explore the old streets, it’s easy to feel like you’re retracing the steps of the merchants of old. From the walls, you can admire the city’s red-tiled rooftops before exploring the Gothic Visby Cathedral.

By night, venture to the waterfront where the historic Hanseatic Harbor has been transformed into an amalgamation of dim-lit restaurants.

5. Ales Stenar

Shrouded in ancient mystery, Ales Thenar is a marvel of megalithic proportions. Translating to Ale’s Stones, these ancient monolithic rocks capture the imagination of all who visit.

As you gaze upon them for the first time, you may begin to see why some refer to Ales Stenar as a stone ship. There are 59 enormous rock faces that are arranged in the style of a ship, showcasing once more Mother Nature’s art craft.

How they all got here, nobody knows. Much like Stonehenge, Ales Stenar is enveloped in historical speculation. The rocks date back to the Nordic Iron Age, around 1400 years ago. As the theory goes, the rocks represent either a burial monument or an astronomical one.

What they’ll mean for you is likely much different as you marvel at the stunning Baltic Sea views and experience local folklore.

4. Drottningholm Palace

In Ekerö, on the outskirts of Stockholm, lies arguably the country’s most beloved castle. Drottningholm Palace, the current residence of the Swedish King, Queen and royal family, is open for you to explore.

Your time here begins with exploring the opulent gardens. These surround the palace, each section as manicured as the last.

The Baroque style reflects that of the palace, which also showcases hints of Rococo influence. Along the way, you’ll spot the Chinese Pavilion, a reflection of Sweden’s 18th century fascination with Chinese aesthetics.

Although you can explore parts of the interior of Drottningholm on your own, we recommend a guided tour. Peel back the curtain on the palace’s history and design as you wander into historic staterooms and chambers along with the Court Theater from the 1700s.

3. Abisko National Park

On your adventure north of the Arctic Circle, combine your Ice Hotel experience with a trip through the Abisko National Park. We may be biased, but as one of 29 in Sweden, this one takes the cake.

Gorgeous landscapes are par for the course here. In the late spring and early summer, the open meadows become awash with vibrant wildflowers. Just after the first drop of snow, the park becomes a veritable winter wonderland, and an open canvass of white.

Whichever time you choose to explore, you’ll have the opportunity to hike or snowshoe among an incredible protected land. Waterfalls carve into canyons before flowing into wide, open lakes.

Trails meander through lush forests and come nightfall (in the winter) the sky often becomes lit with a kaleidoscopic dance, otherwise known as the Northern Lights.

2. Stockholm Archipelago

The serene haven, Stockholm Archipelago, is a hop, skip and jump from the vibrant downtown of the nation’s capital. Enveloped in water, the city boasts an archipelago of 30,000 islands and skerries that provide an endless array of possibilities for those hunting culture, nature and history.

As you can imagine, the best and easiest way to explore is in any form of watercraft. We recommend getting a hold of a kayak and paddling your way between the isles over the course of a few hours.

Travelers can even acquire a kayak package with meals and accommodation. With every stroke, you’ll come close to rustic cottages set along the island’s shores or picturesque fishing villages just in time for lunch.

Cycling is another great option and a way to spend more time exploring life on land. Here, historic forts, old lighthouses and wooden churches sing songs of a bygone era.

1. Ice Hotel

In the 1980s, Yngve Bergqvist moved from the south of Sweden to the other end of the country, Lapland. Those familiar with it, will know of this region’s majestic and ethereal landscapes. This very environment inspired Yngve to first build an igloo art gallery and second, the now famous Ice Hotel.

In the years since, the Ice Hotel has developed into a sprawling snow and ice structure making for one of Sweden’s unique experiences. A way to sleep within the Arctic Circle. In fact, you’ll be 200km north of the circle border.

Because of this, the Ice Hotel is open year-round. So even if you are exploring Sweden in its delightful warm seasons, you’ll be able to enjoy this experience…and 24 hours of sunlight.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Sweden

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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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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 . 

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. 

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.

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!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Gothenburg Itinerary

Copenhagen or Stockholm: Which City to Visit?

The Perfect Malmo Day Trip from Copenhagen

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.

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!

I’m so happy you’ve found this helpful! Hope you have a great time in Sweden 🙂

Love your passion for travel and detailed itineraries.

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 🙂

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.

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10 Best Vacation Spots in Sweden: Ideas from Local Experts

It’s so easy to fall for Sweden. This Scandinavian country will enchant you with its sparkling lakes, vast forests, rich Viking heritage, captivating cities and royal palaces.

When it comes to deciding where to go on your Sweden vacation , there are plenty of places to choose from. You could revel in cosmopolitan cities, escape to the picturesque countryside, and discover a winter wonderland in the far north.

Our Scandinavia travel experts have picked out the best vacation spots in Sweden to help you figure out where you’d like to visit. Which of these Swedish places will you be adding to your travel wish list?

• Explore these top Sweden vacation packages

1. Stockholm

Sweden’s capital city is undoubtedly one of the top places you should visit on your Scandi adventure.

Stockholm is an attractive waterfront city that sprawls over 14 islands, including Stadsholmen where you find the old town, Gamla Stan.

Stroll along the cobbled streets here to admire centuries-old, colourful buildings, and stop for  fika (a coffee break) at one of the many cafés. This enchanting district happens to be one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval city centres.

There’s so much more to love about Stockholm. Expect world-class museums, restaurants, theme parks and palaces. You can even get a glimpse into royal life at the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace, which dates back to the 17th century.

• Visit Stockholm on one of these small group tours in Sweden
• Related: 15 things to see and do in Stockholm

2. Gothenburg

Eco-conscious, lush and arty, Gothenburg is no ordinary city. Located in West Sweden, it is praised for being one of the most sustainable urban centres in the world.

You could join the locals and cycle around Gothenburg’s pretty streets, canals and green spaces. In fact, you’ll find the country’s largest botanical garden here, which is home to more than 16,000 plant species.

Sweden’s second largest city is also brimming with hip art galleries, including the Gothenburg Museum of Art, and tempting seafood restaurants.

Being so close to the sea on the west coast, you might be tempted to explore the islands lying just offshore from this cool Swedish city.

• Related: The ultimate Scandinavia guide: best times and places to visit

For one of the best vacation spots in Sweden in winter , look no further than Kiruna , Swedish Lapland. Head to the country’s northernmost city, located in the Arctic Circle, and you’ll discover a beautiful place that’s blanketed in snow between December and March.

There are plenty of  reasons why you should take a winter break in Kiruna .

You could try fun-filled activities in the snow, like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Perhaps you're tempted by the idea of staying in a hotel made of ice? If so, don’t miss a visit to the ICE HOTEL in Sweden .

Or you might be keen to chase the northern lights . Kiruna is the perfect place to base yourself for aurora-hunting excursions in the surrounding countryside. This entire region lies within the “northern lights belt”, where frequent aurora activity takes place.

• Hunt for the aurora borealis on a northern lights tour in Lapland
• Related: Christmas in Lapland – Your complete guide

Dalarna is the place to go if you're looking for quintessentially Swedish landscapes. This lush region is brimming with forests, lakes, and wildflower meadows. Plus, you’re sure to spot lots of those traditional red cottages that Sweden is known for.

In this natural haven you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horse riding. Or, seek out an expert and forage for wild fruits in the woods. You can also join in with the favourite local pastime of taking a refreshing dip in one of the region's lakes. Lake Siljan is a good choice for a swim.

Soak up the culture of Dalarna as you explore the villages and towns here, including Rättvik and Tällberg. To see how the famous Dala horse is made, head to the century-old Grannas Dala Horse Workshop .

Or time your trip for mid-June to celebrate the summer solstice with the locals and experience Swedish Midsummer traditions.

• Related: Summer in Sweden: what to do and where to go

5. Stockholm archipelago

Another of the top Sweden vacation spots you shouldn’t miss is the Stockholm archipelago in summer. As you might have guessed, this group of islands extends from the Swedish capital, making it an ideal place to explore on a day trip.

The Stockholm archipelago is made up of around 30,000 islands, scattered across the Baltic Sea. The region is home to sandy beaches, forested isles, steep cliffs and historical sites. 

Whether you drive or take a boat from the city, the Stockholm archipelago is a must-see during the summer months. Imagine sailing and kayaking the waters, hiking the island trails and discovering Viking history. There is so much to uncover here!

• Visit the islands of the Stockholm archipelago on a self-drive tour of Sweden

6. Österlen

Make your way to Österlen for sandy beaches, charming countryside and historical sites. This southern Swedish county lies in the wider Skåne province and boasts gorgeous scenery and quaint towns.

Wander along the cobbled streets of Ystad, admiring the medieval architecture and timbered houses. Then pick up organic local produce at farm shops as you pass through the countryside.

Be sure to spend some downtime at Sandhammaren beach. Here you'll find honey-coloured sands stretching over 12 kilometres (7.5 miles).

Another of Österlen’s must-see visitor attractions is Ales Stenar. This megalithic site comprises 59 stone boulders scattered in the shape of a ship, with views across the Baltic Sea.

• Related: Top Sweden road trips: ideas for scenic Swedish drives

7. Malmö

Sweden’s cities are pretty trendy, and Malmö is no different. First-class eateries, fascinating museums, and historical attractions await you in this southern coastal city.

Take a tour of the Renaissance-era Malmöhus Castle and the Malmö Art Museum for a taste of local heritage and culture. You could discover Malmö by boat, gliding through the canals admiring the city sights from the water.

And when you feel peckish, you can choose from an array of enticing restaurants and cafés at the Lilla Torg market. Then walk off your lunch with a stroll along the Western Harbour and Ribersborg beach.

Did you know:  It's easy to reach Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, from Malmö? The 8 kilometre-(5-mile)long Øresund Bridge links these two neighbouring cities by road and train.

• Discover Malmö as part of an independent train tour in Sweden

8. Abisko National Park

In winter,  Abisko National Park  is one of Sweden's best places to visit. Like Kiruna, Abisko is situated in the far north of the country, in Swedish Lapland.

This pristine area of natural beauty offers you the chance to soak up views of towering mountains, snow-dusted valleys, and frozen lakes.

On a  winter tour of Swedish Lapland , you could enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other exhilarating activities in Abisko National Park. Best of all, is the opportunity to catch sight of the northern lights.

We recommend you search for them at the Aurora Sky Station , perched atop a mountain in the national park. Its position gives you the ideal setting for watching the northern lights. Plus, you can also enjoy a delicious 4-course Nordic meal at the restaurant here.

On the other hand, head here in summer and you’ll have a totally different experience. The snow and ice give way to flower-filled valleys and endless daylight – a phenomenon known as the midnight sun .

• Related: Best time and place to see the northern lights in Sweden

9. Öland

Öland, Sweden’s second largest island after Gotland, has its own special charm. You can get to this Baltic isle by driving over the bridge from Kalmar in Southern Sweden.

When you get there, a diverse mix of historical attractions and natural sites await you.

Visit Solliden Palace, the summer residence of the Swedish royal family, and the 13th-century Borgholm Castle. Roam around the island, discovering ancient burial grounds and forts from the Iron Age as you go.

Enjoy walks or cycle rides in Öland’s countryside. There are with hundreds of kilometres of coastline to explore, and make sure to look out for the old windmills dotting the landscape. You’ll even find 75 (yes 75!) nature reserves on the island, including Ottenby which is a top spot for birdwatching.

• Discover picturesque scenery and towns on one of these summer tours in Sweden

10. Värmland

Immerse yourself in a lush landscape dotted with green forests, rolling hills, and around 10,000 lakes. This is what you can expect from a trip to Värmland, which borders Norway in central-west Sweden.

Discover one of Europe’s largest lakes, Vänern, and the attractive towns that line its shores. In Karlstad, the capital of Värmland, you could soak up the vibrant music scene and wander along the banks of Sweden’s longest river, Klarälven.

Meanwhile, in Kristinehamn you can admire the 15-metre-tall (49-foot-tall) Picasso statue, donated by the artist himself.

But the must-see cultural site in Värmland has to be Mårbacka. This is the home and workplace of Selma Lagerlöf , who in 1909 became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize for literature. Take a guided tour of the Mårbacka estate to learn about this prominent Swedish author.

• Related: 10 cool Swedish facts: what is Sweden known for?

If these top Sweden vacation ideas have inspired you to visit the country yourself, then Nordic Visitor can help. To get you started, take a look at these top Sweden vacation packages for an idea of the routes and sights you could experience.

Our Stockholm-based travel experts will use their insider knowledge to plan an unforgettable Swedish adventure for you.

This mean that when you book a trip to Sweden with Nordic Visitor, your dedicated travel consultant will take care of accommodation, transport, and any activities you want to do. All you need to do is relax and look forward to your getaway!

Get in touch  with our Sweden team to start planning your next break.

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Sweden in Winter: What to Do & Where to Go

10 cool swedish facts: what is sweden known for, sweden in summer: what to do & where to go.

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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 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.

Top image © AndrzejL/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Sweden

• Gothenburg Travel Guide
• The southeast Travel Guide
• The southwest Travel Guide
• 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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Why Malmo is the perfect host for Eurovision — and a spring city break

The song contest has a fitting home in the laid-back swedish city with waterside charm and a buzzy nightlife, says one resident. here’s what to do while you’re there.

T his year Eurovision is coming home. Yes, Swedes take Eurovision seriously. It was the vehicle for one of their greatest gifts to the world — Abba — and for that alone, it remains sacred. They even have their very own national competition, Melodifestivalen, simply to sift out the best Swedish song as their entry. How loveable is that?

But Swedes don’t just love Eurovision — they own it. Sweden has won the competition seven times (a record jointly held with Ireland) and last year’s winner, Loreen, is a double champ, having previously taken the crown in 2012. This is a national industry for Sweden.

No surprises then that Eurovision arriving in Sweden’s third city, Malmo, this month is pretty big news. Why the third city, I hear you ask? Surely such a momentous occasion requires the capital? Well, Malmo — a third-time host — ticks lots of Eurovision boxes.

You see, while Sweden in general is seen as a rather sober and humourless stepdad by the other Nordic nations (Danes are the slack and hot-tempered “Latins of the Nordics”; Finns are rough, backwoods yokels; and the Norwegians? Well, here in Sweden no one talks about them at all), Malmo is Sweden’s sin city. In a land known for homogeneity, Malmo is young, diverse and, in some ways, not very Swedish.

A lot of this has to do with its location and its port-city heritage. While Stockholm and Gothenburg are right out on limbs, Malmo is essentially a suburb of the Danish capital, Copenhagen, thanks to the Bridge. From Copenhagen airport it takes little more time to get to Malmo as it does to reach central Copenhagen.

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What’s more, since the Bridge was built in 2000, Malmo has been shaking off its down-at-heel rustbelt past for a much more worldly and cosmopolitan vibe, with a rate of building that can make parts of it feel like the Dubai of the North. Two entirely new districts — Hyllie, where the trains from Copenhagen first arrive, and Vastra Hamnen, where the old docklands have been gentrified into a glorious summertime neighbourhood — are in the making.

Once here, tourists who took the train east from Copenhagen airport are rewarded with a pretty compelling package: a mini-me Copenhagen that feels much more chill, costs way less money, and has just the same cycle-cycle, waterside, pastry-focused, relaxed-good-times air as its big sister on the other side of the Oresund.

The city is proud of its population drawn from at least 180 countries (there’s a quiet aim — Swedes are always humble — of chalking up every country in the world). It has been suggested that Malmo is a violent city full of dangerous immigrants, but that idea is totally overblown. There are no no-go areas. Rosengard, an immigrant district that’s often labelled as a trouble area, is just a large 1960s housing development that’s no worse than any similar area in London — I’ve never seen any issues there, and the occasional violent incidents have been inter-gang affairs. There’s heavy security in place at the moment to mitigate any trouble arising from the protests around Israel’s participation in Eurovision, but in general Malmo is an incredibly chilled place, especially in the summer months when the vibe is even mellower.

The city’s diverse population brings all sorts of benefits — not least the wide array ofglobal food among the casual, high-quality options at the food hall Malmo Saluhall (malmosaluhall.se).

In the city’s Mollan district you will find what is regarded as Sweden’s best nightlife, as hipsters rub shoulders with kebab houses and microbrewed ale flows (most unSwedishly). At its heart the Malmo Brewing Co & Taproom is a good starting point for a bar crawl around the coolest spots in town (malmobrewing.com).

When the sun shines — as it might during Eurovision — you want to take your swimwear to Scaniabadet, a large bathing platform built out over the sea in Vastra Hamnen, where you can swim and sunbathe for free. Then be sure to change and head for the jewel in the crown of Malmo.

Sitting at the end of a long pier on the city’s main beach, looking like Udaipur’s Taj Lake Palace (well, on a good day), Ribersborgs Kallbadhus sits in the serene waters of the Oresund (£6; ribersborgskallbadhus.se). A kallbadhus is a set of saunas perched over the sea, where you can steam and then plunge into the water. It’s a Swedish institution to be found in every sea or lakeside town and is the surest way to experience genuine Swedish culture in the space of little more than an hour.

This being Sweden, swimwear is not simply frowned upon in the saunas, it’s banned (the rules talk some rot about wet swimwear lowering the temperature of the sauna, but basically, Swedes like any excuse to get naked). Come here to wrap yourself discreetly in a towel and unwind surrounded by Swedish flesh (men and women are generally divided, except in two communal saunas), enjoy the beachside atmosphere, and then have a beer or lunch in the café afterwards.

From the beach, it’s an easy walk into the large parks of Slottsparken and Kungsparken where you will find Malmohus — the ancient castle, complete with moat (a £7 ticket includes entrance to the aquarium and art museum too; malmo.se) — and behind it the delightful Slottstradgarden — beautiful allotments humming with bees, with a lovely café on the canalside for a pitstop (slottstradgardenskafe.se). You can then meander east into the canal-encircled old town for the cobbled charm of Stortorget (Big Square) and Lilla Torg (Little Square), a stone’s throw from Central Station.

• Sweden travel guide • 23 of the best things to do in Sweden

Chaotic overcrowding is expected on the public transport system during Eurovision, but even when it’s not, you’re better off doing as the locals do, and picking up one of the ubiquitous orange rental bikes (day passes £6; malmobybike.se). Even better, skipper your own electric boat around the canals (from £43 per hour for up to 12; bookaboat.se) and see the city from its most natural vantage point — finally facing the waterways.

Where to stay

Oh Boy Hotell, opposite one of Europe’s biggest skatepark in Vastra Hamnen, has self-catering maisonettes and free bikes (one night’s self-catering for four from £102; ohboy.se).

For the best in boutique swankiness, MJ’s on Master Johansgatan (Malmo’s most chichi street) is a hotel, bar and restaurant where the glamorous hang out (room-only doubles from £68; mjs.life).

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Malmö city guide: What to see and do if you’re in Sweden for Eurovision

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Music lovers from around the world are flocking to the south coast of Sweden this week for Eurovision , with the semi-finals kicking off in Malmö on Tuesday, May 7. 

The grand final of the song contest will be hosted in the city on May 11, when one country will be taking home the coveted glass microphone.

But there’s much more to Sweden’s third largest city than just its role as host of Eurovision 2024, and it’s definitely a spot that’s worth exploring if you get the chance.

Described as an ‘international melting pot’ by Visit Sweden, Malmö is home to people from over 170 countries, and is incredibly welcoming as a result. 

It’s also said to be incredibly walkable and is a great location for cyclists, with 515 kilometres of bike paths that’ll take you around parks, squares, and along the coast.

According to those who’ve visited, there’s nothing that takes longer than 15 minutes to get to, and if you did want to travel further afield, there are great public transport links to the suburbs and other notable destinations, including Copenhagen .

Join Metro's Eurovision community on WhatsApp

Eurovision calling! To keep you up to date on everything going on in Malmö, we're hosting a party for everybody (well, maybe just Eurovision fans) over on WhatsApp.

We'll send you all the drama, memes and iconic moments from the live shows, plus behind the scenes gossip.

You can also get involved by sending your reactions to each of the acts and voting for your favourites in our polls, as we get closer to finding out who will be the winner of Eurovision 2024.

Just follow this link , select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!

Yes, the capital of Denmark is an easy 40 minute train ride away, a journey that will take you over the iconic Öresund bridge, which you might recognise from the hit Nordic noir series, The Bridge. 

If you’re in Malmö for Eurovision, here’s a closer look at everything you need to know about the coastal city…

How to get to Malmö

You can easily travel to Malmö from London by booking a flight to Copenhagen in Denmark. This takes around an hour and 50 minutes and currently, flights can be booked for as little as £32 return with Ryanair from Stansted.

You can also book flights to Copenhagen from Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Bristol.

Once you arrive in Copenhagen, you can get public transport from the airport over to Malmö.

Alternatively, you could hire a car and drive, but you will have to pay a rather steep toll in order to cross the Öresund bridge this way.

The best things to do in Malmö

There’s lots to see and do in Malmö, but a visit to the old town in the heart of the city is a must. 

Known as Gamla Staden the area features a number of squares, including Stortorget, the oldest and biggest square, which was mentioned in historical records dating back to 1420. Here you’ll find stunning 16th century architecture, with highlights including the Town Hall and Apoteket Lejonet. The latter is the city’s oldest pharmacy, which has incredible art-nouveau interiors, with giant wooden shelves filled with antique medicine bottles.

Another square you might want to stop by is Lilla Torg, a smaller medieval spot, covered in cobblestones and bursting with bars, cafes, and restaurants. You can sit outside and enjoy a spot of people watching with a cold one, or peruse some of the little shops there, which sell items such as wooden clogs. 

If it’s a spot of shopping that you’re after, then you’ll want to head to Södergatan Street, a pedestrian-only location filled with everything from high street brands we know and love (like H&M) to high-end luxury fashion and vintage stores.

@jessssbrien very random but the Malmö library (stadsbibliotek) is such a hidden gem in the city!!! and omg you HAVE to try budapestbakelse!! my mouth is watering just thinking about it… #Malmö #malmosweden #thingstodoinmalmö #swedentiktok ♬ original sound – Jess Brien | Travel ✈️✨️

@ela.dobai If you ever visit Malmö, make sure you at least visit one of them: 📍Turning Torso 📍City Library 📍Malmo harbour lookout 📍St. Peter’ Church 📍Disgusting Food Museum 📍Malmö Castel 📍Slottsträdgården #travel #malmö #visitmalmo #fy #ig_europe #sweeden #travelphotography #trip #adventure #visitsweden #newplaces #life #skyscape #skyclouds #landscape #adventureinview #travelphotography #europe #memories ♬ Car’s Outside (Sped Up Version) – James Arthur

Other highlights in the city include the Turning Torso, a neo-futurist apartment building, which is one of the tallest in the Nordic region, St Peter’s Church, a gothic brick building that dates back to the 14th Century, and Malmö castle, the oldest preserved Renaissance castle in the Nordic region.

Tourists on TikTok and Tripadvisor also can’t recommend the city library enough, with Pamut_d giving it a five star review, and writing: ‘The building is fabulous both from the outside and the inside! Truly worth a trip’, while a user named Min Min hailed it a ‘haven’ for book lovers.

Others praised the ‘beautiful’ architecture and the ‘stunning’ views it offers over a park. As well as finding something to read, the library also has a medialab,and a cafe.

Those who love to be outdoors in nature also have plenty of options in this city, with numerous parks, and some lovely sandy beaches to go to. Ribersborgsstranden being a popular spot for swimming and leisure.

Where to stay in Malmö:

These are the top five hotels in Malmö recommend by Booking.com:

• Raddison Blu Hotel Malmö , from £86.61 per night
• Quality Hotel View , from £96.99 per night
• Ohboy Hotell , from £87.09 per night
• Elite Hotel Esplanade , from £93.61 per night
• Best Western Plus Park City Malmö , from £89.19 per night

Prices checked May 2024 for a one night stay in Malmö in August 2024.

What’s the weather like in Malmö

Malmö’s weather is typically quite mild, with plenty of rain throughout the year and lots of overcast days. 

However, things start to get warmer in May, with the best weather from June through August, when temperatures reach 22C.

Your Daily Horoscope

What does the week have in store? Your tarot horoscope reading for May 13 to May 19

In winter, the weather can get quite cold, with temperatures dropping to -3C at times.

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Stockholm and oslo are the new paris and rome as extreme summer temps drive surge of interest in europe’s chilly north.

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All the cool people will be going there this summer.

Scandinavia and other chillier parts of Europe are experiencing a dramatic increase in June to August travel — and it’s all driven by a desire to escape sizzling temperatures that have become the norm in popular destinations like Paris and Rome, experts say.

During the warm weather months, bookings for trips to Norway — particularly in places like cool, coastal Bergen — have risen 37% over last year, according to luxury operator Kensington Tours.

The luxury tour company also named Innsbruck, Austria — nearly 2,000 feet above sea level in the Austrian Alps — as another not-so-hot summer commodity, the Wall Street Journal reported .

Travel booking company Hopper reported that trips to Sweden have gone up 70% , while Finland went off the charts with a 126% boost. There has also been increased interest in the Faroe Islands — a scenic archipelago off the coast of Denmark that has raised its profile in recent years.

“As Europe braces for the impact of increasingly common extreme weather events , we anticipate travel patterns and destination choice shifts over the long term,” said Eduardo Santander, executive director of the European Travel Commission said.

World traveler Mary Miles, a 33-year-old in public relations from Baltimore, will enjoy a trip to Scandinavia with her husband later this year, touring Sweden, Denmark, and Norway for two weeks.

Cooler weather was an easy signing bonus for Miles’ other half.

“He’s very, very sensitive to heat,” she told the outlet. “He gets nervous that he’s going to pass out.”

Experts add that the rationale for spending time at these comparatively obscure locations instead of literal tourist hotspots further to the south is not only because they offer a milder climate — travelers will also enjoy fewer fellow foreign vacationers.

The trend toward northern destinations extends beyond Europe.

Domestically, interest in travel to Alaska has risen 25%, according to Kayak.

The northernmost state has become a hub for cruises, according to Jillian Simpson of the Alaska Travel Industry Association.

“Statewide, the state did see a record number of cruise passengers arriving, which was very good,” she told Alaska Public Media earlier this year.

Seward, a major cruise port, is expecting at least 200,000 visitors via cruises in 2024.

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The huge solar storm is keeping power grid and satellite operators on edge

Geoff Brumfiel

Willem Marx

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm. Solar Dynamics Observatory hide caption

NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this image of solar flares early Saturday afternoon. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm.

Planet Earth is getting rocked by the biggest solar storm in decades – and the potential effects have those people in charge of power grids, communications systems and satellites on edge.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says there have been measurable effects and impacts from the geomagnetic storm that has been visible as aurora across vast swathes of the Northern Hemisphere. So far though, NOAA has seen no reports of major damage.

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare, solar storm.

There has been some degradation and loss to communication systems that rely on high-frequency radio waves, NOAA told NPR, as well as some preliminary indications of irregularities in power systems.

"Simply put, the power grid operators have been busy since yesterday working to keep proper, regulated current flowing without disruption," said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Boulder, Co.-based Space Weather Prediction Center at NOAA.

NOAA Issues First Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch Since 2005

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"Satellite operators are also busy monitoring spacecraft health due to the S1-S2 storm taking place along with the severe-extreme geomagnetic storm that continues even now," Dahl added, saying some GPS systems have struggled to lock locations and offered incorrect positions.

NOAA's GOES-16 satellite captured a flare erupting occurred around 2 p.m. EDT on May 9, 2024.

As NOAA had warned late Friday, the Earth has been experiencing a G5, or "Extreme," geomagnetic storm . It's the first G5 storm to hit the planet since 2003, when a similar event temporarily knocked out power in part of Sweden and damaged electrical transformers in South Africa.

The NOAA center predicted that this current storm could induce auroras visible as far south as Northern California and Alabama.

Extreme (G5) geomagnetic conditions have been observed! pic.twitter.com/qLsC8GbWus — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 10, 2024

Around the world on social media, posters put up photos of bright auroras visible in Russia , Scandinavia , the United Kingdom and continental Europe . Some reported seeing the aurora as far south as Mallorca, Spain .

The source of the solar storm is a cluster of sunspots on the sun's surface that is 17 times the diameter of the Earth. The spots are filled with tangled magnetic fields that can act as slingshots, throwing huge quantities of charged particles towards our planet. These events, known as coronal mass ejections, become more common during the peak of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle.

A powerful solar storm is bringing northern lights to unusual places

Usually, they miss the Earth, but this time, NOAA says several have headed directly toward our planet, and the agency predicted that several waves of flares will continue to slam into the Earth over the next few days.

While the storm has proven to be large, predicting the effects from such incidents can be difficult, Dahl said.

Shocking problems

The most disruptive solar storm ever recorded came in 1859. Known as the "Carrington Event," it generated shimmering auroras that were visible as far south as Mexico and Hawaii. It also fried telegraph systems throughout Europe and North America.

Stronger activity on the sun could bring more displays of the northern lights in 2024

While this geomagnetic storm will not be as strong, the world has grown more reliant on electronics and electrical systems. Depending on the orientation of the storm's magnetic field, it could induce unexpected electrical currents in long-distance power lines — those currents could cause safety systems to flip, triggering temporary power outages in some areas.

my cat just experienced the aurora borealis, one of the world's most radiant natural phenomena... and she doesn't care pic.twitter.com/Ee74FpWHFm — PJ (@kickthepj) May 10, 2024

The storm is also likely to disrupt the ionosphere, a section of Earth's atmosphere filled with charged particles. Some long-distance radio transmissions use the ionosphere to "bounce" signals around the globe, and those signals will likely be disrupted. The particles may also refract and otherwise scramble signals from the global positioning system, according to Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist with NOAA. Those effects can linger for a few days after the storm.

Like Dahl, Steenburgh said it's unclear just how bad the disruptions will be. While we are more dependent than ever on GPS, there are also more satellites in orbit. Moreover, the anomalies from the storm are constantly shifting through the ionosphere like ripples in a pool. "Outages, with any luck, should not be prolonged," Steenburgh said.

What Causes The Northern Lights? Scientists Finally Know For Sure

The radiation from the storm could have other undesirable effects. At high altitudes, it could damage satellites, while at low altitudes, it's likely to increase atmospheric drag, causing some satellites to sink toward the Earth.

The changes to orbits wreak havoc, warns Tuija Pulkkinen, chair of the department of climate and space sciences at the University of Michigan. Since the last solar maximum, companies such as SpaceX have launched thousands of satellites into low Earth orbit. Those satellites will now see their orbits unexpectedly changed.

"There's a lot of companies that haven't seen these kind of space weather effects before," she says.

The International Space Station lies within Earth's magnetosphere, so its astronauts should be mostly protected, Steenburgh says.

In a statement, NASA said that astronauts would not take additional measures to protect themselves. "NASA completed a thorough analysis of recent space weather activity and determined it posed no risk to the crew aboard the International Space Station and no additional precautionary measures are needed," the agency said late Friday.

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis on Friday in Whitley Bay, England.

While this storm will undoubtedly keep satellite operators and utilities busy over the next few days, individuals don't really need to do much to get ready.

"As far as what the general public should be doing, hopefully they're not having to do anything," Dahl said. "Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight." He advised that the largest problem could be a brief blackout, so keeping some flashlights and a radio handy might prove helpful.

I took these photos near Ranfurly in Central Otago, New Zealand. Anyone can use them please spread far and wide. :-) https://t.co/NUWpLiqY2S — Dr Andrew Dickson reform/ACC (@AndrewDickson13) May 10, 2024

And don't forget to go outside and look up, adds Steenburgh. This event's aurora is visible much further south than usual.

A faint aurora can be detected by a modern cell phone camera, he adds, so even if you can't see it with your eyes, try taking a photo of the sky.

The aurora "is really the gift from space weather," he says.

• space weather
• solar flares
• solar storm

‘Extreme’ solar storm triggers Northern Lights as far south as Florida Friday

Skies across the u.s. lit in a spectacular colorful glow not seen in years to decades as massive solar flares slammed into earth on friday, triggering "extreme" levels of geomagnetic activity. and the show may not be over for a while..

Strongest solar action in a decade impacting Earth right now

Aurora viewers will want to keep their eyes to the sky this weekend as a solar flare from the Sun is impacting Earth right now. Current forecasts indicate this storm will continue into Saturday morning across North America.

Skies across the U.S. were lit in a spectacular, colorful glow at levels not seen in years or decades as massive solar flares slammed into Earth on Friday.

Northern Light displays, typically relegated to states along the Canadian border during a typical geomagnetic storm, reached as far as the Gulf Coast Friday night, with pink, green and purple skies reported in Florida, Texas and Alabama. 

The SWPC says satellites observed conditions that reached level 5 on their 5-point scale of geomagnetic activity on Friday evening, noted as an "extreme" event and the first such storm to reach that level since October 2003.  While conditions have since drifted back to a level 4 storm Saturday morning, more geomagnetic activity is heading Earth's way over the weekend from additional solar flares, possibly lasting into early next week.

NOAA observed yet another massive X-class solar flare released from the Sun on Friday evening, rating it as X5.4 on their scale, among the strongest flares of recent activity. 

10 May 2024, Brandenburg, Sieversdorf: Light green and violet-reddish auroras glow in the night sky in the Oder-Spree district of East Brandenburg. The northern lights (aurora borealis) are produced by a cloud of electrically charged particles from a solar storm in the earth's atmosphere. (Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images)

A brilliant display of the Aurora Australis (aka the "Southern Lights") over New Zealand as a severe geomagnetic storm reaches Earth on May 10, 2024.  (@AndrewDickson13 via X)

Northern Lights from Missoula, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Missoula)

Northern Lights from Seattle during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Seattle)

Northern Lights from Great Falls, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Great Falls, Montana)

Northern Lights from Mukilteo, Washington during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (Scott Sistek)

10 May 2024, Baden-Württemberg, Freiburg: Northern lights appear over the Dreisamtal valley in the Black Forest near Freiburg. (Photo by Valentin Gensch/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Northern Lights from Shreveport, Louisiana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Shreveport)

FOX Weather Storm Tracker Mark Sudduth caught a stunning view of the aurora over South Carolina while in a plane. (Mark Sudduth)

View from Concord, N.C. (Jay Caceres)

Outside of the NWS office in Caribou, Maine. ( )

Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco in Middletown, California on May 11, 2024. The most powerful solar storm in more than two decades struck Earth, triggering spectacular celestial light shows from Tasmania to Britain -- and threatening possible disruptions to satellites and power grids as it persists into the weekend. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP) (Photo by JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images) ( )

Northern Lights from Reno, Nevada during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Reno)

Northern Lights from Riverton, Wyoming during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Riverton)

Northern Lights from Great Falls, Montana during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. ( )

Northern Lights from Hastings, Nebraska during an extreme geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. (NWS Hastings)

Forecasters at the NWS office in Calera, AL saw the aurora and the space station. (@NWSBirmingham)

Clear skies led the Northern Lights to be visible in Texas and New Mexico (@NWSElPaso)

The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon over Basingstoke in Hampshire. Picture date: Friday May 10, 2024. (Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images)

SEE MORE: EXTREME GEOMAGNETIC STORM TRIGGERS JAW-DROPPING AURORAS AROUND THE WORLD

Aside from brilliant and widespread displays of the aurora, geomagnetic storms can impact infrastructure in near-Earth orbit and on Earth’s surface, potentially disrupting communications, the electric power grid, navigation, radio and satellite operations, the SWPC says. The last time Earth experienced a Level 5 geomagnetic event, there were power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa.

THE HISTORY OF EARTH'S GREATEST SOLAR STORMS

"We have notified all of our infrastructure operators that we coordinate with, such as satellite operators, communication folks, and of course, the power grid here in North America," SWPC coordinator Shawn Dahl said Friday. "So they are able and prepared to take mitigation efforts as much as possible throughout this event if it should unfold to the levels that we currently are anticipating."

SpaceX's Starlink service warned on its website Saturday morning that it was experiencing "degraded service," though it didn't give further details. Yet SpaceX head Elon Musk had earlier posted on X that the Starlink satellites were under a lot of pressure due to the geomagnetic storm and were still holding up.

Massive sunspot 17 times the size of Earth creating multiple flares

Two massive sunspots have recently merged and spit out at least three X-class (largest) and several M-class (second-largest) solar flares . According to NOAA, the explosive acceleration of charged and superheated plasma, known as a coronal mass ejection or CME, speeds through space and expands. 

The new sunspot is 17 times the diameter of the Earth.

"These two sunspot clusters are magnetically complex and much larger than Earth. Together they have been the source of frequent M-class flares (minor to moderate)," stated the Space Weather Prediction Center. "RGN 3664 (the combined sunspot region) continues to grow and increase in magnetic complexity and has evolved into a higher threat of increased solar flare risk."

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these images of the solar flares — as seen in the bright flashes in the left image (May 8 flare) and the right image (May 7 flare). The image shows a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the extremely hot material in flares and which is colorized in orange.

(NASA/SDO / NOAA)

Amid the multiple solar flares, NOAA space weather forecasters have observed at least seven CMEs from the sun, with the first impacts arriving early Friday afternoon ET. Heightened solar conditions are expected to persist perhaps as long as Sunday.

"This is an unusual and potentially historic event," the SPWC stated.

WHAT IS A GEOMAGNETIC STORM?

Another sunspot also released strong CMEs this week and continues to be active. According to NOAA, the bulk of five CMEs will collide with Earth in a glancing blow as early as midday Friday through Sunday.

How flares can set off geomagnetic storms

"Flares are when the sun brightens, and we see the radiation, and that's kind of the muzzle flash," explained Professor Peter Becker of George Mason University in an earlier interview. "And then the cannon shot is the coronal mass ejection (CME) . So, we can see the flash, but then the coronal mass ejection can go off in some random direction in space, but we can tell when they're actually going to head towards Earth. And that gives us about 18 hours of warning, maybe 24 hours of warning before those particles get to Earth and start messing with Earth's magnetic field." 

SOLAR SUPERSTORM COULD ‘WIPE OUT THE INTERNET’ FOR WEEKS OR MONTHS, SCIENTIST SAYS

An illustration of Earth's magnetic field shielding our planet from solar particles.

(NASA/GSFC/SVS / NASA)

NOAA warns of a wide area blackout of high-frequency radio communications for hours. The geomagnetic storm could also cause widespread voltage irregularities in power systems, which trigger false alarms on security devices, cause drag on low earth orbit satellites preventing them from orienting and cause range errors and a loss-of-lock for GPS systems.

X-class solar flares are the largest explosions in the solar system. According to NASA, the biggest X-class flares can produce as much energy as 1 billion atomic bombs. M-class flares are the second-strongest flares, and they can cause minor radiation storms and harm astronauts.

Solar cycle peaking , making solar storms more plentiful

Tree rings and ice cores are evidence of much larger solar superstorms in the past. 

In 1859, the great Carrington Event, generally regarded as Earth's greatest solar storm in recent history, covered nearly the entire planet in aurora.  About 14,000 years ago, a solar flare, possibly hundreds of times stronger than the Carrington flare, impacted Earth. 

Northern lights visible from Europe

Friday's aurora was visible across much of Europe. NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center classified the event as a G5, the highest level on its geomagnetic storm scale.  

NOAA forecasts the current 11-year solar cycle to peak sometime in 2024 or early 2025, and solar activity is likely to remain active for the next several months or even a few years. 

NOAA PREDICTS STRONGER PEAK OF SOLAR ACTIVITY IN 2024 THAN ORIGINALLY ANTICIPATED

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

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ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

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SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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