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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Sweden travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: April 24, 2024 08:17 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, sweden - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Sweden due to the threat of terrorism.

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Heightened threat of terrorism

Since the beginning of 2023, there has been an increase in incidents of public desecration of the Qur'an in Stockholm. On August 17, 2023, the Swedish Security Service (SAPO) raised the national terrorist threat level from 3 (elevated) to 4 (high) on a 5-step scale. The decision is based on an assessment that the threat posed by violent extremists has increased and will remain heightened.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly alert during public celebrations and demonstrations.

If you are in Sweden:

• expect enhanced security measures and an increased police presence at the border and in public places
• monitor local media for the most recent information
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Terrorist threat level raised to high – Swedish Security Service
• Local terrorism threat level – Swedish Police Authority

Petty crime

Petty crime like pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs. Thieves work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings.

Thieves are especially active in crowded areas, such as:

• airports, train stations and public transportation hubs
• hotel lobbies
• concerts and music festivals
• restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés
• tourist attractions

Always keep your belongings in a safe place, including your passport and other travel documents.

Violent crime

Gang and organized crime-related violence occurs mainly in the three largest cities in Sweden:

Stockholm County has experienced an increase in gun violence and homicides linked to gang rivalries. Recent incidents suggest retaliatory killings. In certain situations, criminals have used bombs, hand grenades or improvised explosive devices. Violent incidents have occurred in public areas, including bars and restaurants.

While violent incidents have not typically occurred in areas frequented by tourists, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

• Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings
• Do not touch or move suspicious items or unattended packages

There is a threat of terrorism in Sweden. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities.

Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• major political events, such as demonstrations
• other public celebrations

Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

The Government of Sweden maintains a public alert system on terrorism. The Government communicates threat level changes online and through local media.

• Local terrorism threat level - Swedish Police Authority
• Terrorist attacks - Swedish Crisis Information

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Adventure and arctic tourism

Adventure tourism may lead to serious safety concerns if not well-organized. Weather conditions can change rapidly, even in summer.

In winter, heavy snowfall can make it difficult to reach certain areas. Roads may become impassable. There is also a risk of avalanches, some of which can be fatal.

If you undertake adventure tourism or trekking, especially in the arctic provinces and remote areas of Sweden:

• never do so alone
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• don’t venture off marked trails
• ensure that you’re properly equipped
• ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary
• obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are excellent. Some roads may be closed in winter, particularly in northern areas.

Wildlife road accidents are common. Be particularly vigilant if driving at nighttime. Road signs indicating risks posed by the presence of particular animals display the animal’s silhouette on an orange triangle with red borders.

Public transportation

Public transportation services are efficient and reliable.

Trains and buses

Sweden has an extensive high-speed railway network that connects main cities and rural areas. Stockholm also has a metro (subway) rail service, and a regional commuter rail network serves the Southern part of the country.

Most cities have good public bus systems. Long-distance bus lines are also available.

Taxis are widely available but may be expensive. Use only officially marked taxis and don’t share them with strangers.

Taxi fares in Sweden are not regulated. Fares may vary and have no upper limit. Always confirm the rates before your journey or pre-negotiate fares.

There are daily ferry connections with Denmark, Germany, Finland and the Baltic countries.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Swedish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Sweden is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Temporary border controls

The Swedish government has reintroduced internal border controls at all ports of entry. You may be required to pass through immigration controls when entering Sweden, even if arriving from another Schengen area country.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required Student resident permit: not required for stays up to 90 days Work permit: required

• Visas requirements - The Swedish Migration Agency
• Studying in Sweden - Study in Sweden

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is excellent. Service is available throughout the country.

English is widely spoken in the main hospitals, particularly in the urban centres of Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg.

Emergency services may be limited in remote areas.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Sweden are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Sweden to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Sweden authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Sweden.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Sweden, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Sweden.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Sweden, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Swedish court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Sweden to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Compulsory military service

Swedish citizens of 18 years of age are subject to compulsory military service. Dual Canadian-Swedish citizens may be subject to this requirement.

Military service - Swedish Defence Recruitment Agency (in Swedish)

Physical punishment of children

Physical punishment of children, including the threat of physical punishment, is illegal in Sweden. The law applies to all adults regardless of relation and in all settings, including at home. Swedish authorities can take custody of children and prosecute adults in situations where physical punishment occurs.

Use of public land

Movement and camping on public land in Sweden is permitted under the “Allemansrätten” or “Freedom to Roam” law. Camping is not permitted within 70m of a dwelling or cultivated land. There are certain restrictions for specific areas, times of year, and uses.

The right of public access – Swedish Environmental Protection Agency

A Canadian driver’s licence can be used to drive in Sweden for up to one year. You should also carry an international driving permit.

Congestion charges

A congestion tax is imposed for vehicles entering and exiting Stockholm and Gothenburg. Consult the website of the Swedish Transport Agency to confirm the current hours and amounts for congestion taxes.

Congestion taxes in Stockholm and Gothenburg  - Swedish Transport Agency

Vehicles must be equipped with winter tires from December 1 to March 31. Winter tires may also be required outside of these dates when the Swedish police consider local weather conditions to be similar to the winter season. This could reflect snow, ice, or frost on the roads.

Children below 135 cm must sit in an approved car seat designed for their height and weight, either a baby car seat, child car seat, booster seat or booster cushion.

• More information about driving in Sweden - European Commission
• More about the International Driving Permit

The currency of Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK).

Many shops and restaurants no longer accept cash.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Sweden is prone to severe winter weather. Floods and windstorms could occur. The risk of flooding is greatest in the South of the country.

Weather warnings and advisories – Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI)

In mountainous regions, avalanches and landslides present a risk.

• Monitor local media and weather forecasts
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Avalanche forecasts - Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket)

Forest fires may occur in summer months, and fire bans during the summer are common. Respect all fire bans to avoid a heavy fine. Whether or not a fire ban is in place, you may face arrest if you cause a forest fire.

If you plan on camping or cooking outdoors in Sweden during the summer:

• use a camping stove instead of an open fire

Map of fire bans – Swedish Crisis Information

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Sweden, in Stockholm, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Destinations

©Maria Swärd/Getty Images

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Planning Tools

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• Travel Destinations

The Ultimate Sweden Travel Guide

Published: October 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Shaylah Gault

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Sweden, a country of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique cultural heritage. Located in Northern Europe, Sweden is known for its pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque coastal towns. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, Sweden has something to offer for everyone.

With its efficient public transportation system, well-maintained infrastructure, and high standard of living, Sweden is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure. From the vibrant city life of Stockholm to the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Lapland, Sweden’s diverse attractions will captivate your imagination.

Sweden is also renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. With an emphasis on eco-friendly practices and renewable energy sources, the country is a pioneer in the global movement towards a greener future.

In this comprehensive Sweden travel guide, we will take you on a virtual journey through the country, providing essential information to help you plan your visit. From visa requirements to transportation options, top tourist attractions to unique cultural experiences, we will cover it all. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Sweden!

Getting to Sweden

Getting to Sweden is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected transportation network and multiple international airports. The main international gateway to Sweden is Stockholm Arlanda Airport, located just 37 kilometers north of Stockholm. This modern and efficient airport offers a wide range of flights, connecting Sweden to major cities around the world.

Other major airports in Sweden include Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, located near Gothenburg, and Malmö Airport, serving the southern region of the country. These airports also offer international flights and provide convenient access to popular tourist destinations.

If you are traveling from within Europe, you can also consider taking a train or ferry to Sweden. The train network in Europe is well-developed and provides easy access to cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Ferries are another popular option, especially if you are traveling from neighboring countries like Denmark and Finland. The ferry routes connect various ports along the Swedish coast, allowing you to enjoy scenic views along the way.

Once you arrive in Sweden, you’ll find an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes getting around the country a breeze. The national train company, SJ, operates a comprehensive rail network that connects major cities and towns across Sweden. The trains are comfortable and reliable, offering a convenient way to travel longer distances.

If you prefer to explore Sweden’s cities, buses and trams are available in most urban areas. Stockholm, in particular, has an excellent public transportation system, including metro, buses, and ferries, making it easy to navigate the city.

For those looking to explore the countryside or visit more remote locations, renting a car is a great option. Sweden has a well-maintained road network, and driving allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Just remember to familiarize yourself with the driving rules and regulations, as well as any specific requirements for winter driving if you plan to visit during the colder months.

Overall, getting to Sweden and navigating within the country is relatively straightforward, providing you with the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this Scandinavian gem.

Best Time to Visit

Sweden offers a unique experience in every season, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you have in mind. Let’s dive into the different seasons and what they offer:

Spring (March to May):

Spring is a magical time to visit Sweden, as the country awakens from the long winter. The temperatures start to rise, and the landscapes come alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. It’s the perfect time to explore the charming cities, go hiking in the countryside, and witness the stunning cherry blossoms in Stockholm’s Kungsträdgården.

Summer (June to August):

Summer is peak tourist season in Sweden, and for a good reason. The long daylight hours and pleasantly warm temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities. From exploring the archipelagos and enjoying the sandy beaches to camping in the pristine national parks, summer offers endless possibilities for adventure. Don’t miss the famous Midsummer celebrations, where you can experience traditional Swedish customs and dance around the maypole.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn transforms Sweden into a picturesque canvas of vibrant colors. The forests are ablaze with hues of red, orange, and gold, creating a breathtaking spectacle. This is a great time for nature lovers, as you can go hiking, forage for mushrooms and berries, or simply enjoy the scenic beauty. It’s also the season of harvest festivals, where you can indulge in delicious Swedish cuisine made with freshly harvested ingredients.

Winter (December to February):

Winter in Sweden may be cold, but it’s a magical time to visit, especially if you enjoy winter sports and unique experiences. The snowy landscapes provide opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in the northern parts of the country. Christmas markets, cozy fireplaces, and indulging in traditional Swedish delicacies like gingerbread cookies and mulled wine are also highlights of the winter season.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Sweden depends on your interests and what you hope to experience. Whether you prefer the vibrant colors of autumn, the long days of summer, or the enchantment of winter, Sweden has something to offer in every season.

Visa Requirements

Visa requirements for Sweden vary depending on your nationality and the purpose and duration of your visit. Here is an overview of the visa requirements for most visitors:

Visa-Free Travel:

If you are a citizen of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you can enter Sweden without a visa and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This applies to both tourism and business purposes.

If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, you can also visit Sweden for tourism or business purposes without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Schengen Visa:

If you are not eligible for visa-free travel, you may need to apply for a Schengen Visa in order to visit Sweden. The Schengen Visa is a short-stay visa that allows you to travel to and within the Schengen Area, which includes Sweden.

To apply for a Schengen Visa, you will need to submit an application at the Swedish embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence. The application process typically involves providing supporting documents, such as a valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

It is important to note that the processing time for visa applications can vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned trip to allow for sufficient processing time.

Residence Permits:

If you plan to stay in Sweden for a longer period, such as for work, study, or family reunification, you may need to apply for a residence permit. The specific requirements and application process for residence permits vary depending on the purpose of your stay, and it is advisable to consult the Swedish Migration Agency or the nearest Swedish embassy or consulate for detailed information.

It is important to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in Sweden and that you have any necessary travel documents or permits before traveling to the country. Failure to comply with visa requirements may result in denied entry.

Remember to check the latest visa requirements and updates before your trip, as regulations can change. The Swedish embassy or consulate in your country can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

Currency and Money Matters

The official currency of Sweden is the Swedish Krona (SEK). When visiting Sweden, it is recommended to have some cash on hand for small purchases and places that may not accept cards. However, Sweden is largely a cashless society, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the country, even for small transactions.

ATMs, known as “Bankomats,” are easily accessible in most urban areas, and they accept various international cards. It is advisable to notify your bank before traveling to Sweden to ensure that your cards will work overseas and to inquire about any applicable fees for international withdrawals or transactions.

If you prefer to exchange foreign currency for Swedish Krona, you can do so at banks, exchange offices, or at the airport. Note that exchange offices may charge higher fees, so it is recommended to compare rates before making a transaction. Banks typically offer competitive exchange rates, but they may have limited opening hours, especially on weekends.

When it comes to tipping in Sweden, it is not mandatory, as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service. In restaurants, rounding up to the nearest 10 SEK or leaving a 5-10% tip is considered polite. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, or other service providers is also appreciated but not expected.

It is worth noting that Sweden is generally a safe country for carrying cash and using cards. However, it is always a good practice to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when handling money or using ATMs, especially in crowded tourist areas.

If you plan to travel to more remote areas or engage in activities where card payment may not be possible, it is advisable to carry some cash with you. Furthermore, having a travel insurance policy is also recommended to ensure coverage for any unforeseen circumstances or medical expenses during your stay in Sweden.

By being prepared with the right currency or payment methods and understanding the tipping customs, you can enjoy a hassle-free and convenient experience when it comes to money matters in Sweden.

Transportation within Sweden

Sweden boasts a well-developed and efficient transportation system that makes it easy to navigate and explore the country. Here are the main modes of transportation within Sweden:

The national train company, SJ, operates an extensive rail network that connects major cities and towns across Sweden. Trains are known for their punctuality, comfort, and scenic routes, making them an excellent mode of transportation for both short and long distances. You can choose from high-speed trains, regional trains, and even overnight sleeper trains for longer journeys. It’s recommended to book your train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Buses are a convenient and cost-effective way to travel within Sweden, especially to smaller towns and rural areas not served by trains. Several bus companies, such as Swebus and FlixBus, operate both domestic and international routes. Bus tickets can be purchased online, at bus stations, or even from the driver in some cases. Buses are equipped with comfortable seating and amenities like free Wi-Fi, making them a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.

For longer distances or when time is a constraint, domestic flights are available between major cities in Sweden. Airlines such as SAS and Norwegian offer domestic flights that are relatively quick and convenient. It’s worth noting that flying may not always be the most environmentally friendly option, so consider alternative modes of transportation if possible.

Public Transportation in Cities:

Sweden has efficient public transportation systems within its cities, making it easy to get around without a car. Stockholm, for example, has an extensive network of buses, trams, and an efficient metro system known as the Tunnelbana. Gothenburg and Malmö also have well-developed public transportation networks, including trams and buses. City passes or travel cards are available, allowing for unlimited travel within a specified period. Just tap your card or ticket when boarding and remember to keep them handy for inspection.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

Taxis are readily available in most cities and towns in Sweden. You can either hail a cab on the street or find designated taxi stands. Keep in mind that taxis in Sweden can be quite expensive, so make sure to check the meter or agree on the fare before starting your journey. Alternatively, ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in major cities, offering another convenient and often cheaper transportation option.

With its reliable and comprehensive transportation network, getting around Sweden is a breeze. Whether you prefer trains, buses, or a combination of modes, you can easily explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and charming towns that make Sweden a remarkable destination.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodation in Sweden, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly hostels, Sweden has it all. Here are some popular accommodation options to consider:

Sweden offers a wide range of hotels, from international chains to boutique establishments. In larger cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, you’ll find a plethora of luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities, excellent service, and stunning views. Mid-range hotels and budget options are also available throughout the country, providing comfortable accommodations at more affordable prices.

Hostels are a great choice for budget-conscious travelers or those looking to meet fellow travelers. Sweden has a good selection of hostels that offer dormitory-style rooms or private rooms with shared facilities. Hostels often provide common areas, kitchen facilities, and social activities, making them a popular choice for backpackers and solo travelers.

Bed and Breakfasts:

For a cozy and personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast (B&B) in Sweden. B&Bs are often family-owned establishments that offer comfortable rooms and a hearty breakfast to start your day. This option allows you to connect with locals and get insider tips on exploring the area you are staying in.

Holiday Rentals:

If you prefer a home-away-from-home experience, holiday rentals are a popular option in Sweden. You can find apartments, cottages, or villas available for short-term rentals, giving you the flexibility and space to make yourself at home. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer a wide range of holiday rental options across the country.

Camping and Cabins:

With its abundance of beautiful nature and outdoor spaces, camping in Sweden is a popular choice for nature lovers. There are numerous campsites with facilities ranging from basic to fully equipped. You can also opt for renting cabins or small cottages in scenic locations, allowing you to immerse yourself in Sweden’s stunning landscapes.

Eco-Lodges and Farmstays:

For a unique and sustainable experience, consider staying at an eco-lodge or a farmstay. Sweden has a growing number of eco-lodges that prioritize environmental conservation and provide eco-friendly accommodations. Farmstays allow you to experience rural life and learn about Swedish agricultural practices while enjoying comfortable lodgings and home-cooked meals.

Regardless of your accommodation preference, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular destinations. This ensures that you secure a place that meets your needs and offers the best experience during your stay in Sweden.

Must-Visit Cities in Sweden

Sweden is a country dotted with vibrant cities, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Here are some of the must-visit cities in Sweden:

As the capital and largest city of Sweden, Stockholm is a must-visit destination. Spread across 14 islands, Stockholm is known for its stunning architecture, picturesque old town (Gamla Stan), and vibrant cultural scene. Don’t miss attractions like the Royal Palace, Vasa Museum, and the trendy neighborhood of Södermalm. Take a boat tour through the archipelago or enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife.

Gothenburg:

Located on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is a vibrant city known for its charming canals, historic districts, and thriving food scene. Explore the colorful Haga district, visit the Liseberg amusement park, and stroll along the iconic shopping street, Avenyn. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious seafood and experience the city’s friendly and laid-back atmosphere.

Malmö:

Situated in the southernmost part of Sweden, Malmö is a cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage. Explore the Old Town (Gamla Väster), visit the modern and iconic structure of the Turning Torso, and explore the vibrant Möllevången neighborhood known for its diverse dining scene. Malmö also offers easy access to the charming town of Lund and the picturesque Øresund Bridge connecting Sweden with Denmark.

Just north of Stockholm, Uppsala is a city steeped in history and home to one of Sweden’s oldest universities. Visit the iconic Uppsala Cathedral, stroll through the enchanting gardens of Uppsala University, and explore the Gustavianum museum. Uppsala is also known for its lively student atmosphere and traditional Swedish celebrations, making it a vibrant and culturally rich city.

Located on the island of Gotland, Visby is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a medieval city with well-preserved city walls and cobblestone streets. Explore the narrow alleys of the old town, discover medieval ruins, and visit the Gotland Museum to learn about the island’s fascinating history. Visby is also famous for its annual Medieval Week, where the city comes alive with reenactments, markets, and festivities.

These are just a few of the many captivating cities in Sweden. Each city offers its own unique character and attractions, allowing you to experience the diversity and charm of this fascinating country.

Swedish Cuisine and Dining

Swedish cuisine is known for its simplicity, clean flavors, and focus on locally sourced ingredients. From flavorful seafood dishes to comforting traditional favorites, Swedish cuisine offers a delightful culinary experience. Here are some iconic dishes and dining customs to explore:

Herring is a staple in Swedish cuisine, and you’ll find various preparations of this flavorful fish. From pickled herring (sill) served during traditional midsummer celebrations to fermented herring (surströmming) known for its pungent aroma, herring is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.

Smörgåsbord:

A classic Swedish dining experience is the smörgåsbord, a buffet-style meal featuring a wide array of traditional dishes. Enjoy a selection of pickled herring, cured salmon, Swedish meatballs, crispy potatoes, and various other salads, sauces, and bread. Don’t forget to save room for a delicious dessert like the famous Princess Cake (prinsesstårta).

Swedish Meatballs:

Swedish meatballs (köttbullar) are a true comfort food and a classic Swedish dish. Made from a mix of ground meats, such as beef and pork, these tender meatballs are typically served with creamy gravy, lingonberry sauce, and a side of mashed potatoes or lingonberry jam. They are a favorite both at home and in restaurants.

Crayfish Party:

During the month of August, Swedes celebrate the traditional crayfish party (kräftskiva). It’s a festive event where friends and family gather to enjoy boiled crayfish, typically seasoned with dill and served with bread, cheese, and snaps (aquavit). The crayfish party is characterized by singing, drinking, and lots of traditional Swedish songs.

New Nordic Cuisine:

Sweden has also made a name for itself in the culinary world with its innovative and modern New Nordic cuisine. This movement focuses on using local and seasonal ingredients, often foraged or sourced from sustainable farms. Many top restaurants in Sweden offer unique dining experiences with creative dishes that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage and modern culinary techniques.

When dining out in Sweden, keep in mind that it is customary to tip around 10% if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tap water is typically served for free, and drinking alcohol in public places is generally not allowed unless in designated areas.

Whether you’re indulging in traditional Swedish dishes, exploring the New Nordic cuisine, or enjoying the vibrant food scene in Sweden’s cities, the country offers a delicious culinary journey that will leave you satisfied and intrigued.

Top Tourist Attractions in Sweden

Sweden offers a plethora of incredible attractions and natural wonders that will leave you in awe. From stunning landscapes to rich cultural heritage, here are some of the top tourist attractions to explore during your visit to Sweden:

Stockholm’s Gamla Stan:

The charming old town of Stockholm, known as Gamla Stan, is a must-visit attraction. Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant squares, explore the Royal Palace, and visit the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Swedish delicacies and shop for traditional crafts in this picturesque neighborhood.

The Vasa Museum:

The Vasa Museum in Stockholm is home to the well-preserved Vasa warship, which sank in 1628 and was salvaged centuries later. Marvel at the intricately carved details of the ship and learn about its fascinating history through interactive exhibits. The museum offers a unique insight into Sweden’s maritime past.

The Icehotel:

Located in Jukkasjärvi, the Icehotel is a world-renowned hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures, spend a night in one of the ice suites, and enjoy winter activities like dog sledding and Northern Lights hunting. The Icehotel is a true testament to Sweden’s creativity and craftsmanship.

Abisko National Park:

If you’re seeking natural beauty, head to Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland. This pristine wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting. The region is also known for its clear skies, making it an excellent spot to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Göta Canal:

The Göta Canal is a remarkable feat of engineering that stretches across Sweden, connecting Stockholm to Gothenburg. This 190 km long canal offers picturesque views, and you can take a boat tour or rent a bike to explore the scenic paths along the canal. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and marvel at the impressive lock systems along the way.

Kiruna’s Ice Church:

Located in the town of Kiruna, the Ice Church is a stunning structure made entirely of ice. Each year, the church is built anew with ice blocks from the nearby Torne River. Experience the unique atmosphere of an ice chapel and witness the illuminated ice sculptures during the winter months.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Sweden has to offer. Whether you’re captivated by history, immersed in nature, or fascinated by modern innovations, Sweden’s diverse attractions will leave a lasting impression on your travel memories.

Outdoor Activities in Sweden

Sweden is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities amidst its stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, Sweden has something for everyone. Here are some top outdoor activities to enjoy in Sweden:

Hiking and Trekking:

Sweden boasts an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails, ranging from coastal paths to mountain trails. Explore the majestic beauty of the Kungsleden in Swedish Lapland, hike through the picturesque Abisko National Park, or traverse the scenic forests of Sörmland. With its abundance of national parks and natural reserves, Sweden offers endless opportunities for hiking and trekking.

Canoeing and Kayaking:

Sweden is home to countless lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, making it a paradise for canoeing and kayaking. Paddle through serene waterways, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the tranquility of the Swedish wilderness. The Göta Canal, the Stockholm Archipelago, and the lakes of Värmland are just a few of the picturesque spots where you can embark on a paddling adventure.

Winter Sports:

When winter arrives, Sweden transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a plethora of activities for snow enthusiasts. Hit the slopes for downhill skiing or snowboarding in popular resorts like Åre and Sälen. Embrace the Swedish tradition of cross-country skiing on the well-groomed trails that crisscross the country. You can also try your hand at snowshoeing, ice skating, or ice fishing, immersing yourself in the winter magic of Sweden.

Wildlife Safaris:

Sweden’s vast wilderness is home to an array of wildlife, including moose, reindeer, beavers, and various bird species. Embark on a wildlife safari, either on foot, by kayak, or on a guided tour, and immerse yourself in the natural habitats of these fascinating creatures. Swedish Lapland is particularly renowned for its wildlife safaris, offering you the chance to spot reindeer herds and maybe even catch a glimpse of the elusive Arctic fox.

Cycling Adventures:

With its well-maintained bike paths, Sweden is a cyclist’s paradise. Take a leisurely ride through picturesque countryside, pedal along coastal routes, or embark on an epic cycling journey across the country. The Kattegattleden Coastal Cycle Route, the Göta Canal Cycling Route, and the Stockholm Archipelago are popular choices for those seeking cycling adventures in Sweden.

These are just a few of the outdoor activities that Sweden has to offer. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences like hiking and skiing or yearning for a peaceful connection with nature through canoeing and wildlife safaris, Sweden’s breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Cultural Experiences in Sweden

Immerse yourself in Swedish culture and traditions by exploring the rich heritage and engaging in unique cultural experiences. Sweden offers a wide array of activities and events that showcase its fascinating history, arts, and customs. Here are some cultural experiences to indulge in during your visit to Sweden:

Midsommar (Midsummer) Celebrations:

Midsommar, the traditional Swedish midsummer celebration, is a festive event that takes place in late June. Join in the celebrations where locals gather to dance around the maypole, wear traditional costumes, and enjoy traditional food and drink. Experience the magic of Swedish folklore as you partake in this joyous and vibrant celebration.

Visit Open-Air Museums:

Swedish open-air museums provide insight into the country’s rural heritage and historical way of life. Explore Skansen in Stockholm, the oldest open-air museum in the world, where you can see traditional Swedish buildings, learn about traditional crafts, and witness reenactments of historical events. Other notable open-air museums include Leksand’s Gamla Stan and Boda Borg in Karlskoga.

Royal Palaces and Castles:

Discover Sweden’s royal history by visiting the magnificent palaces and castles scattered across the country. Explore the opulent Royal Palace in Stockholm, the summer residence of the royal family at Drottningholm Palace, or the historic Gripsholm Castle in Mariefred. Marvel at the grand architecture, stunning gardens, and learn about the legacy of Swedish royalty.

Sami Culture:

In the northern parts of Sweden, you can learn about the unique Sami culture, indigenous to the region. Visit the Sami villages, such as Jokkmokk or Kiruna, to see traditional Sami crafts, learn about their reindeer herding traditions, and even try traditional Sami cuisine. Participate in a reindeer sledding tour or attend the annual Sami festivals to gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant culture.

Explore Contemporary Art and Design:

Sweden has a thriving contemporary art and design scene. Visit modern art museums like Moderna Museet in Stockholm, Louisiana Museum in Humlebæk, or the Wanås Foundation in Skåne to immerse yourself in the works of Swedish and international artists. Additionally, explore design boutiques, flea markets, and concept stores in cities like Stockholm and Malmö to discover unique Swedish design and craftsmanship.

These cultural experiences provide a glimpse into Sweden’s rich history, vibrant traditions, and artistic heritage. By engaging in these activities, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Swedish culture and create lasting memories of your journey through this captivating country.

Shopping in Sweden

Sweden offers a diverse shopping experience, from trendy fashion boutiques to traditional handicrafts and unique design items. Whether you’re seeking the latest fashion trends, stylish home decor, or traditional Swedish souvenirs, here are some shopping destinations to explore in Sweden:

Swedish Fashion and Design:

Sweden is renowned for its fashion and design scene, with many homegrown brands recognized worldwide. Visit the upscale department stores and shopping districts in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö for a wide range of fashion choices from international luxury brands to local designers. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Swedish fashion brands such as Acne Studios, Filippa K, and H&M, which originated in Sweden.

Swedish Handicrafts and Souvenirs:

When it comes to traditional Swedish handicrafts, you’ll find a plethora of options to choose from. Visit independent boutiques or artisan markets to find unique items like Dala horses (wooden horses), traditional Sami crafts such as handmade reindeer leather items, and intricate glassware from famous Swedish glass factories like Orrefors and Kosta Boda. Look for hand-knit sweaters, woolen mittens, and local pottery for distinctive souvenirs.

Antiques and Vintage Finds:

Sweden is also a treasure trove for antique and vintage enthusiasts. Explore flea markets and antique shops, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, to discover hidden gems and unique collectibles. Stockholm’s Södermalm neighborhood is known for its vintage boutiques and retro shops, where you can find curated selections of clothing, furniture, and unique accessories.

Food Markets and Delicacies:

Swedish food markets are worth exploring for food enthusiasts. Visit indoor food markets like Östermalmshallen in Stockholm or Saluhall in Gothenburg, where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and Scandinavian specialties. Sample traditional Swedish treats like smoked salmon, lingonberry jam, and various types of pickled herring that can be purchased to enjoy at home or as gifts for food lovers.

Designer Outlet Shopping:

If you’re looking for discounted prices on designer brands, head to designer outlet centers like Stockholm Quality Outlet or Freeport Outlet in Kungsbacka. Here, you can find discounts on well-known fashion and home decor brands, allowing you to score stylish items at more affordable prices.

Remember to check the opening hours, as some shops and markets may have limited schedules, especially on Sundays and public holidays. Keep in mind that Sweden operates on the Swedish krona (SEK), and credit and debit cards are widely accepted. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets that may only accept cash payments.

By exploring the shopping scenes in Sweden, you’ll have the opportunity to discover unique fashion, handicrafts, and design items that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage and innovative style.

Safety and Emergency Information

Sweden is generally considered a safe country with a low crime rate. However, it is always important to prioritize personal safety and be prepared for any emergencies. Here are some safety tips and emergency information to keep in mind during your visit to Sweden:

Emergency Numbers:

In case of emergencies, the general emergency number to call in Sweden is 112. This number can be used for any situation requiring immediate assistance, such as medical emergencies, accidents, or reporting a crime. The operators are trained to handle various emergencies and will guide you accordingly.

Health and Medical Care:

Sweden has a well-developed healthcare system with excellent medical facilities and services. If you require medical attention, visit the nearest medical center or hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to ensure you have access to necessary healthcare services without incurring high costs.

Personal Safety:

While Sweden is generally safe, it is advisable to take basic precautions to protect your personal belongings and ensure personal safety. Keep an eye on your belongings in public places, avoid displaying valuable items, and be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas or public transportation. It is also good practice to use common sense and follow any safety guidelines provided by local authorities.

Nature Safety:

If you plan to explore Sweden’s beautiful natural landscapes, make sure to familiarize yourself with the local terrain, weather conditions, and outdoor safety guidelines. Take necessary precautions when hiking, camping, or engaging in outdoor activities to prevent accidents or injuries. Inform someone about your plans and estimated time of return, and consider using a reliable map or GPS device for navigation.

Public Transport Safety:

Sweden’s public transportation system is generally safe and reliable. However, it is important to be mindful of your belongings, especially on crowded buses, trains, or metro systems. Keep an eye on your personal belongings and be cautious of pickpocketing in busy urban areas. Try to avoid traveling alone late at night, and if possible, use well-lit and busy routes.

Weather Conditions:

Sweden experiences varied weather conditions throughout the year, so it’s advisable to keep updated on weather forecasts, especially during winter when conditions can be harsh. Be prepared for changes in weather and pack accordingly, especially if you plan to visit remote or outdoor areas where weather conditions can be unpredictable.

It is always a good practice to stay informed about local laws, customs, and any specific regulations or safety guidelines related to the areas you plan to visit within Sweden. Stay informed, be prepared, and enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Sweden.

Useful Phrases in Swedish

Even though many Swedes speak English fluently, learning a few basic phrases in Swedish can enhance your travel experience and show your appreciation for the local culture. Here are some useful phrases to help you communicate during your visit to Sweden:

• Hej (Hey) – Hello
• God morgon (Good MOR-gon) – Good morning
• God dag (Good dahg) – Good day
• God kväll (Good KVELL) – Good evening
• Tack (Tahk) – Thank you
• Ja (Ya) – Yes
• Nej (Nay) – No
• Ursäkta (Ur-SHEHK-ta) – Excuse me
• Förlåt (FUR-loht) – Sorry

Basic Phrases:

• Var är…? (Var air…) – Where is…?
• Jag förstår inte (Yah for-STOHR ehn-ta) – I don’t understand
• Kan du hjälpa mig? (Kahn due YEL-pah may) – Can you help me?
• Hur mycket kostar det? (Hoor MOO-ket KOS-tar deht) – How much does it cost?
• Jag skulle vilja ha… (Yah SHU-leh VIL-ya hah) – I would like to have…
• Hur kommer jag till…? (Hoor KOM-mehr yah teel) – How do I get to…?
• Vad rekommenderar du? (Vahd re-koh-mehn-DEH-rar doo) – What do you recommend?
• Har du…? (Har doo…) – Do you have…?

Ordering Food:

• En meny, tack (En MEN-oo, tahk) – A menu, please
• Jag skulle vilja beställa… (Yah SHU-leh VIL-ya bes-TAHL-a) – I would like to order…
• Kan jag få notan, tack? (Kahn yah foh NOH-tahn, tahk) – Can I have the bill, please?
• Vatten, tack (VAH-ten, tahk) – Water, please
• En kaffe, tack (En KAH-feh, tahk) – A coffee, please

Getting Directions:

• Var ligger…? (Var LIG-ger…) – Where is…?
• Gå rakt fram (Go RAHKT fram) – Go straight ahead
• Sväng höger/vänster (SVUNG HOHG-er/VEN-ster) – Turn right/left
• Till höger/vänster (Till HOHG-er/VEN-ster) – To the right/left
• Håll utkik efter… (HOLL OOT-keek EF-ter…) – Look out for…

Learning these phrases will help you navigate basic conversations, ask for assistance, and show your respect for the Swedish language and culture. Swedes appreciate the effort to communicate in their language, even if you just use a few simple phrases.

Sweden is a remarkable destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. From the vibrant city life of Stockholm to the tranquil landscapes of Swedish Lapland, Sweden has something to offer every traveler. By learning about the country’s visa requirements, transportation options, and local customs, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Explore the must-visit cities of Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, immersing yourself in the local history, architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes. Indulge in Swedish cuisine, trying traditional dishes like meatballs, herring, and princess cake. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors, whether it’s hiking through national parks, kayaking in picturesque waterways, or witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland.

Remember to stay informed about safety precautions, emergency numbers, and weather conditions to ensure a safe and pleasant journey. Learning a few basic Swedish phrases will not only enrich your travel experience but also show your appreciation for the local culture and create meaningful connections with the Swedish people.

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes, captivating history, and warm hospitality of Sweden. Whether you’re captivated by the stunning natural beauty, inspired by the innovative design and fashion scene, or simply seeking tranquility in the Swedish way of life, Sweden is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

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Traveling to Sweden – the Ultimate Guide

Are you  traveling to Sweden ? Maybe, you are looking for places to visit or fun things to do? Or maybe, you are looking for some Sweden travel advice in general? If you want to plan the best, and most memorable vacation possible, you are in the right place.

Since living in the US, but born and raised in Sweden, I have gotten a new appreciation for my home country. Maybe you have Scandinavian heritage and can relate, or you might have a genuine interest in traveling, and Sweden is on your list of countries to visit. 

Going back to visit Sweden every summer, along with working as a tour operator focused on the Scandinavian countries, I’ve planned plenty of trips to Sweden. Since travel planning can be kind of stressful, (Believe me, I’ve had my share of travel failures throughout the years, but that’s for another article.) I thought it would be helpful to put together a Sweden travel advice guide for you. We’ll talk about places to visit, things to do, where to stay, how to budget for a trip to Sweden, and more. 

Traveling + the Nordic countries are my passion. So, just to let you know from the beginning, if you read through this and have questions, don’t hesitate to contact me. You can reach me at veronica @ “this website name”. com or leave a comment below, and I will be in touch.

Let’s dive into it.

Sweden at a Glance

Sweden, a country with almost 100,000 lakes, has a vibrant capital, endless castles, and friendly people. The capital Stockholm has a beautiful archipelago, interesting art around the city, and a colorful old town. There is so much more thought to this country. 

Born and raised in the south part of Sweden, Scania, I might be partial to the beauty Sweden offers. To me, Sweden stands for Sunday hikes around a small lake, with family. “Fika” meaning coffee, and a cookie or “winerbröd” at the local cafe with an old friend. Let us not forget dancing around the midsummer pole on midsummer Eve after making flower headbands with the kids.

Living in the US has given me a new appreciation for “fika”, “the right to roam”, and the mix of natural beauty and fun activities that Sweden offers.

What’s on your list of things to try when visiting Sweden?

The experiences that this long and narrow country offers are endless. Open fields, apple orchids, and beautiful sandy beaches in the south. Northern lights, Sami culture, and ice castles in the north – Sweden has something for everybody!

One of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to green energy. But also one of the leaders when it comes to music. Sweden is the original home of household names like IKEA, Volvo, H&M, and Spotify.

What do you associate with Sweden? 

Good to Know Traveling to Sweden

Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

Population: 10,380,491 (2020)

Credit Cards and ATM: Before leaving on your trip, let your credit card company know that you will be traveling. Also, make sure to get a card that will not charge you for international transactions. Sweden is moving towards a cashless society. Bank cards like VISA and Mastercards will work pretty much everywhere. 

Electricity / Plugs: 2 round prongs that output 230 volts – Europlug C and F.

WiFi:  Hotels, airports, stores free-WiFi is available in many places. 

Systembolaget: You will not be able to pick up alcohol in the grocery stores. To get wine, beer, and liquor, Systembolaget is the place to shop. Systembolaget is available in every major city in Sweden. The age limit to purchase alcohol at Systembolaget is 20 years old.

Visiting a Swedish Home: Leaving your shoes at the door is custom in most Swedish homes. Don’t be surprised if you get a tour of the place the first time you visit. For some reason, Swedes will happily show you around and give you a tour of the house, even if not asked for. 

Travel Safety: Sweden is considered a very safe place to travel. All though this is true, you should always be cautious and use common sense while traveling, Sweden is no exception. 

Traveling to Sweden – Get Inspired 

Places to visit.

Sweden, this narrow but almost 1600 kilometers (1000 miles) long country, has a long coastal line. Inland you will find unlimited forests and lakes A country that’s pretty flat in the south but with mountains in the north.

The places to visit for your Sweden trip depend on what you want to see and do. Now, you might have places to visit because of family or interests. In case you need some suggestions, here are a few places to consider;

The Swedish capital, with Old Town, the Royal castle, Skansen , and the ABBA museum is well worth a visit. It has a beautiful archipelago, islands to get lost in and discover by boat. Stockholm , a modern city with forward-thinking design and art. Not to mention, restaurants offering Nordic cuisine mixed with international flavors prepared by top chefs. Although modern, history is all around you in buildings, rescued Vasa ship, and stories on the streets. 

Scania, or as we say Skåne 

South part of Sweden, Skåne, is a wonderful mix of open landscapes, hiking trails, castles, and vibrant cities. With places like Malmö, Lund, Ystad, and Helsingborg, you can experience the city feel with nature just around the corner. 

History combined with nature is magnificent at the Ale Stenar. A megalithic monument, 67 meters long stone formation shaped like a ship right by the coastline. Nimis, a driftwood sculpture, on the north side of Kullaberg, in the northwest corner of Scania, is another beautiful area to hike and explore.

One of my personal favorites is a small island between Denmark and Sweden, Ven. Yellow canola fields (when in season), small fish villages, and stunning nature and views will leave you amazed at this little gem. Rent a bike and enjoy the island. If whiskey is your thing, stop at Spirit of Hven for a whiskey taste. Here you can also spend the night. 

Northern Sweden is beautiful all year round, with breathtaking winter landscapes and beautiful inland lakes in the summer. If going in the summer, bring bug spray. The lakes attract the bugs, and it can get pretty bad. Lapland in the winter is magical, cold, snowy, and beautiful. Enjoy winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling, husky rides, northern lights, and more.

Gothenborg 

When visiting Sweden’s second-largest city, the amusement park Liseberg, a canal tour with Paddan and the museum Universum might be on your list of things to do. All fun things, but also spend some time to enjoy the natural beauty of the west coast of Sweden. The Gothenburg archipelago has 20 islands, many of which you can visit in a day. Crabfish on Hönö, hike on Styrsö or explore the fisherman’s huts on Donsö.

Off the east coast of Sweden, about a 3-hour ferry ride from the mainland. Surrounded by the baltic sea, the island offers stunning nature and medieval history in the city Visby. Visby with cobblestone streets and medieval city wall, hosts many fun events in the summer “Medeltidsveckan” Medievalweek, being one of them.

Things To See and Do in Sweden

Swedish nature .

One thing that I really miss in Sweden living abroad is the beautiful untouched nature. From open landscapes with beautiful sand beaches in the south to islands and cliff formations in the west. From the archipelago life around Stockholm to mountains in the north.

Inland you will find crystal clear lakes. Swedish nature offers a great variety, and you will find well-kept hiking trails around the country. Walking the trails, you’ll breathe some of the purest air possible.

“Allemansrätten” – the right to roam 

Allows you to enter pretty much any land to hike, camp, ski, pick berries or flowers, as long as done responsibly. Leave it as you found it, leave nothing behind. Private gardens and fields with growing crops are the exceptions. They are not for anybody to roam.

See the Northern Lights

An experience of a lifetime is to view the dancing bluish-greenish light on the dark sky. Traveling to Sweden in the winter seeing the Aurora Borealis is a common bucket list item. I can only agree that when they do show up, they are mesmerizing. I will never forget skiing up north in Sweden. Daylight was short and the dark night long, but when the northern lights showed up dancing on the sky, time stood still. Beautiful!

From the Northern Lights up north to the open fields in the south. Österlen, south-east part of Scania, known for its apple orchids, quaint fishing villages, and a light that artists are longing for. Natural beauty combined with a rich history, that’s Österlen. 

In a beautiful setting right by the coast, you will find Ale Stones, an iron-age monument formed as a ship made up of 59 massive stones. Regardless of all the beauty, the laid-back atmosphere, with cafes, galleries, farm shops, and fishing villages, is the main reason why I keep coming back to this beautiful part of Sweden.

Stockholm Old Town

With 14 islands and over 50 bridges Stockholm , is beautifully located by the Baltic sea. Hip, modern but with a history that has endless stories to tell. The old town with cobblestone streets and narrow alleys is a must to stroll through when visiting. Here you can also see the Royal Castle, Storkyrkan cathedral and the Swedish parliament building. 

Vasa Museum 

Another place to visit in Stockholm is the Vasa museum. Here you can view the massive salvaged remains of the 17th century, the 64 gun warship Vasa. After the ship sank in 1628, it sat on the bottom of the sea. Not until 1961, the Vasa ship was out of water. Walking in seeing this big ship, people are in awe. 

Stockholm Archipelago

To make a summer in Stockholm complete, you have to visit the archipelago. Take a boat tour out to one of the islands or join a cruise that will show you around this beautiful part of Sweden. Join in the fun of visiting islands with cliff formations, seeing typical red Swedish cottages, and maybe a dip in the sea. 

Traveling to Sweden – Visit  a Castle 

The Royal Palace and Drottningholm castle in Stockholm might be the most famous castles in Sweden, but there are plenty of other ones to visit when touring the country. 

In Scania, the south part of Sweden, you can visit Malmö castle, Sofiero palace, Hovdala castle, Wanås castle, and Christinehof castle, just to mention a few. Yes, the south part of Sweden has a lot of castles. You can even spend the night in some of them. Kronovalls wine castle and Örenäs castles are good places to enjoy the surroundings, have a good meal, and spend the night. 

Famous Swedish Landmarks

There are some of the Swedish landmarks that stand out more than others. Here are a few to appreciate and maybe also visit. 

• Turning Torso – Malmö
• Öresund bridge between Malmö and Copenhagen
• The moving church – Kiruna
• Nimis architect playground – Kullaberg Skane
• The Tree hotel
• Visby Town Wall – Gotland
• The woodland cemetery – Stockholm
• Stockholm City Hall
• Göta Kanal 
• Lund Cathedral

Swedish Experiences To Try

A classic swedish fika .

Get together with friends over a cup of coffee and some baked goods. 3 pm is a good time for fika 🙂 at the local cafe.

“Dagens” 

The daily special. Most restaurants will have a daily special for lunch. Try something new even though you are not familiar with it. Oftentimes, restaurants serve something very Swedish. Pea soup, Swedish pigs in a blanket or maybe a stew, the daily special change. 

Go for a Nature Walk

No matter where you are, you are never far away from nature, a park, a lake, or the coastline. Enjoy the beautiful nature on a hike on one of the many trails around the country.

Winter Fun Activities

Visiting Sweden in the winter, and you can enjoy some of the fun winter activities like a husky ride, skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, or reindeer safari. If you are adventurous, stay at the ice hotel.

Who Is Sweden For?

Traveling with family combining nature, educational museums, with some fun amusement parks, will allow for a good balance. Sweden, in general, is very family-friendly. Gröna Lund and Skansen in Stockholm, Liseberg, and Universeum in Gothenburg are fun places for the whole family.

Other family fun places to visit are theme parks like High Chaparral and Astrid Lindgren’s world. If you enjoy cowboys and Indians, High Chaparral is the place. Interested in meeting Pippi Longstocking, Emil, and the other characters from Astrid Lindgren’s books, her park is a great place to visit. 

If you and your special someone are traveling through Sweden, there are many romantic places to stay. How about a castle stay? A hotel with a spa? Or maybe, high up in a tree hotel? Fun couples activities – like getting all cozy under the fur during a husky ride are also available.

It doesn’t matter if you want to relax with nature walks and stay secluded at a typical Swedish cottage, or if you enjoy sightseeing tours, tasty restaurant meals, and stay at a comfortable hotel – Sweden has it all. I can highly recommend staying at the Kronovall wine castle in Scania, or/and take a romantic dinner cruise in the Stockholm archipelago.

Single Traveler

Sweden is a great country to travel for single travelers, it’s safe, easy to get around, and single room accommodation is easy to find. Of course, you should always be cautious like you would anywhere else, but Sweden is considered very safe. Also, if you are a female single-traveler, equality is something Sweden is working actively with. We can’t say that we are 100% there… yet. But, compared to many other countries, Sweden is on its way.

Traveling to Sweden – Plan Your Vacation in Sweden

When I get the question – When is it a good time to go to Sweden? I always ask – What would you like to do? Let’s talk a little bit about the different seasons, and what Sweden offers during that time.

If you want to enjoy the outdoors with comfortable temperatures, the summer months June, July, and August are a good time to go.  During summer, the beaches are filling up, amusement parks are busy, and people enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. 

Joining a Midsummer party in June is as Swedish as it gets. Dance around the Midsummer pole put flowers in your hair, and try a smorgasbord dinner.

Although summer is my favorite time in Sweden, it can get a little busy when schools are out. From mid-June to mid-August would be considered high season. 

Spring and Fall

To avoid the crowds but still get comfortable temperatures, spring and fall are good times to visit Sweden. Spring months, April and May are beautiful, with flowers and trees blooming. Fall is nice with its beautiful colors and cooler temperatures. Both seasons are great for outdoor activities and to explore nature. Make sure to bring your umbrella, occasional rain is not uncommon.

If winter activities like husky rides, snowmobiling, skiing, or reindeer safari are on your list of things to do, then winter is your time to go. From mid-December to early April, you can enjoy most winter activities up north. Winter is also the time to stay at the Ice Hotel. 

In December, you can visit cozy Christmas markets around the country. Most decent-size cities will have their own market, offering local produce, fun events, hot chocolate, and Christmas music. Everything that will make sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.

When to see the Northern Lights?

Traveling from September to late March, the Northern Lights are visible up north in Sweden. Since weather permitting, combine the hunting for the lights with some fun winter activities. Hopefully, you’ll get lucky enough to enjoy the Aurora Borealis. 

Swedish Temperatures, Rainfall, and Daylight

Since Sweden is such a long country, the weather from north to south can vary greatly. Temperatures, rainfall, and daylight vary as well, but the below charts will give you a good overview.

Source: NOAA and Google

Sweden Travel Costs 

Now you might have an idea of a couple of places to visit and a few things to do. But the rumor is that Sweden and Scandinavia are expensive, is there any truth to that? Let’s look at a few examples when it comes to hotels, eating out, and activities so you’ll get an idea of what your trip might cost. 

Now, I’m basing these numbers on comfortable traveling. We will look at staying at 3- and 4-star hotels, eating at decent restaurants, and doing some fun activities. Suggested prices below are in USD.

Accommodation Travel Costs

Hotel prices in Sweden can vary some depending on the season. Also, prices can increase if there are events or conferences going on. In Stockholm, you will get a 3-star hotel around $100 – 120 USD for the night. For a 4-star alternative, you will pay around $150 – 200 USD per night.

Book early, and you will have more alternatives. In addition, booking with free cancellation is great insurance. 

Most 3- and 4-star hotels will include breakfast. When it comes to lunch, finding restaurants with “Dagens rätt” the meal of the day, you can often get a great meal for around $10 – $15, including the main meal, salad, and a drink. 

If you want something on the go for lunch, like a hot dog, hamburger, or kebab, you’ll pay around $10 for a meal and drink.

Dinner prices can vary greatly depending on where you go and what you drink. You will get a good meal for two, with a glass of wine or beer, for around $120 – $160. You can also get a fine dining experience at a place like Frantzen, a Michelin star restaurant. Here you pay a price of around $350 per person for the meal, plus drinks. Many find it is an amazing experience.

Most museums will cost around $10 – $20 to enter. Often kids get in for free. For example, the Vasa museum will cost about $20 per adult. Kids under 18 visit for free. 

A small group, 2-hour walking tour of Old town will cost you between $35 – $50 per person. If you want a private tour it will be more expensive.

Winter activities up north will cost you a little bit more. A 6-hour “Hunting for the lights tour” in Tromso will cost you around $140 per person. A husky ride or reindeer safari in a smaller group costs around $240 per person. 

Accommodation in Sweden

Traveling around Sweden, you can stay at hotels, bed, and breakfasts, or rent a private house or a cabin. In Stockholm, to be centrally located, I would suggest staying in the neighborhoods of; Old Town, Norrmalm, and Östermalm. Staying in these areas allows you to be close to many attractions, museums, shops, and restaurants. Budget hotels to luxury first-class hotel options are available in Stockholm and around the country.

• See our hotel recommendations in Stockholm here.
• Read more about;  Scandinavian Hotels – Everything You Need to Know

Sweden also offers some unique places to stay. How about spending the night in a tree-house, or an ice hotel. You can also stay on a boat in Stockholm or why not on a parked airplane, Jumbo stay, at Arlanda airport in Stockholm.

For privacy and luxury, stay in a private villa. We work with Scandinavian Hospitality contact us for more information.

How to Get Around

In general, Sweden is easy to get around, and many Swedes themselves, use public transportation for commuting. 

Arriving in Sweden, Stockholm Arlanda has the best international connections. If you want to visit the south part flying into Copenhagen , Denmark, taking the train over to Malmö via the Öresundbridge will be your best bet. Going to the west coast, Gothenburg Landvetter has an international airport. Connections from Stockholm Arlanda to smaller airports around the country, up north to Kiruna, for example, are good. 

Airport Transfer

Getting from the airport to the city is easy, with either public transportation or a private ride. You can catch a cab from outside the airport or pre-book a private transfer. With Arlanda Express, it will take you 20 minutes from Arlanda airport to Stockholm central station. From Kastrup Copenhagen to Malmö, Sweden, it will take you about 20 minutes as well. It’s fast and very convenient.

If you have the time and want to take in some of the scenery along the way, taking the train is a good option. To give you an idea of the time spent on the train, here are some main train routes;

• Stockholm – Gothenburg – 3 hours 5 minutes (fast train)
• Malmo – Stockholm – 4 hours 30 minutes (fast train)
• Stockholm – Kiruna – 15 hours 8 minutes (night train)

If getting outside of the rail network and larger cities, renting a car will make traveling convenient. If you are going to multiple countries in Scandinavia, plan on picking up and dropping off the vehicle in the same country. Pick up and drop off the car in the same location, it will save you a lot of money. Stockholm can get a little busy, but other than that, driving in Sweden, traffic is usually not too bad.

When using a taxi in Sweden, ask for the price upfront. Prices can vary between different cab companies. If not careful, you can pay a steep price. Usually, using the established larger taxi companies is your best bet.

What to Eat When Vacationing in Sweden

The food scene in Sweden is forward-thinking with a classic spin. From fine dining to street food trucks, the food options are many. Green thinking comes through in the way Swedes eat, and many restaurants choose to use local produce. Here are a few things to consider trying when visiting Sweden;

For breakfast try Filmjölk – fermented milk, that many put cereal or granola on. My favorite way to eat it is plain with sugar and cinnamon.

Fish and seafood – Swedes eat a lot of fish and seafood. Herring, cod, and salmon in many variations are popular options. Shrimp and other seafood are also commonly served at restaurants. If you buy ready made shrimp at the supermarket, it’s prepared in saltwater and has a much saltier taste than if you buy shrimp in the US. Taste delicious!

Open Sandwiches – these are very popular lunch or appetizer options. Toast Skagen, an open shrimp sandwich, is a classic.

Meatballs with lingonberries – you have probably heard of Swedish meatballs. They are served with lingonberries, potatoes, and brown gravy. Yum! This never gets old. A common belief is that we put the meatballs in the gravy, but nope, the gravy goes on top of the potatoes and meatballs after it’s plated. When in Sweden, you have to give this classic dish a try.

Green Princess Cake Dessert – this bright green dessert is another Swedish favorite. White sponge, jam, and whipped cream topped with a green layer of marzipan, it’s finished off with a pink rose to make the princess cake complete.

“Godis” Candy – one of my kids’ absolute favorite things to do is to go to “Hemmakväll”, think old Blockbuster, and pick out their candy. They have rows of candy, a ton of different options for you to choose between. You get your bag and fill it with all your favorites. Chocolate, sour, sweet, and my personal favorite, black salty licorice. At least I get all that for myself :).

What to Pack for Your Trip to Sweden

The packing list for your Sweden trip varies depending on the season. But, let me suggest a few things to bring.

Clothes – clothing that you can layer up is functional. If you get cold, add a layer. When you get warm, you remove a layer. Weather in Sweden can be unpredictable, and even summers might require a long-sleeve shirt during early mornings or on a rainy day. Layering your clothing is your best bet.

Shoes – leave your new shoes at home. Bring your most comfortable shoes. It doesn’t matter if you are hiking in the woods or doing a city tour in Stockholm, you will most likely spend a lot of time on your feet. Make sure you are comfortable!

Summer – Sunglasses/sunscreen/hat for summer. An eye mask might also come in handy since daylight is long during the summer months.  

Winter – Winter clothing, hats, gloves, thicker jacket, snow pants, and shoes. 

Rain jacket or umbrella – you never know when the rain will surprise you. 

Tech related items – A portable charger is always good to bring. If you are out for a long day or if you are enjoying nature you might drain your battery, especially if you are using your phone to take pictures as well. Another good thing to bring or buy when you get there is a charger for Swedish outlets. You might have a cord with a USB port, in that case you can easily find the main plug when you arrive.

These are just a few of the things recommended traveling to Sweden. Read our full Summer Packing list here.

There we have it some Sweden travel advice! If you have any questions, or if I left anything out, please leave a comment below and I will get back as soon as possible.

Relevant Travel Articles:

• 29+ Sightseeing tours in Stockholm
• 23 Things to Do in Stockholm Sweden

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Just want to let you know;   some of my posts might contain affiliate links.  If you buy something through those links, it will not cost you  a penny more, but I might earn a commission.  That will allow for this site to  keep going.  Thanks!

Written by  Veronica

Born and raised in Sweden, now living in the US, Veronica has a passion for Scandinavian travel. As a former product design specialist with a Scandinavian tour operator, she has extensive knowledge of tour planning and the Scandinavian countries.

18 thoughts on “ Traveling to Sweden – the Ultimate Guide ”

Wonderful article!! My older sister was an exchange student in high school, thought she would never come back lol. Love to visit! You gave me many things to think about now, thank you 🙂

Glad you like the article. In what city was your sister an exchange student? It is a nice place, you should add it to your bucketlist 🙂

Wow Veronica, there is so much info on this one post that you could easily turn this into an awesome e-book for those who want to take it along while they travel to Sweden! *hint hint*

I would love to visit Sweden one day, especially for its Nordic history and your post talks about everything I need to know about the beautiful country in such great detail! I am super intrigued by the viking history and am wondering where you would suggest I look to discover that. Any ideas ?

Thank you for putting together this wealth of info on your home country! Cheers, Sasha

Great idea, maybe I will add more information and turn some of this into a Swedish e-book :).

The great thing with the Nordic Countries is that Viking history is all around you. In Stockholm you can join a guided tour that will show you some of the Viking history not only in the capital but in Sigtuna, Sweden’s first city. Here you can find rune stones, a Viking museum and more. In the south you can visit Fotevikens open air Viking Museum. Ale Stone’s as mentioned in this article is also worth a visit. The island of Gotland is also a great place to learn more about the Vikings.

Thanks for stopping by,

We do travel a lot and would like to travel to countries such as Sweden and with them already speaking English we are surprised. This seems to be a great place to get away with them and what they are eating seems to be our type of food. We would love to get away and enjoy a vacation like this and breathe in the good air of somewhere different. Just knowing that we could plan to get to Sweden excites us and get us pumped to learn more. We enjoyed this article a guide, or tour you give us, with the way you wrote the article make you feel like you are actually there and kinda craving to go there, and not ever been there. Veronica breaks Sweden down into sections so that we can see the best things that come out of this wonderful country.

Cheers, Mathew&Deloris

We visited Stockholm while on a cruise. Well, we stepped on land while going from our ship to a sightseeing boat! We had opted to do a sightseeing tour by boat and it was fantastic! I hadn’t realised before that Stockholm was set on islands. We then cruised out through the Stockholm Archipelago in glorious sunshine – it was so beautiful. This superb article brings back some lovely memories! Thank you!!

That’s great Julia that you got to experience not only the Stockholm Archipelago, but also some other Scandinavian countries. Where else did you set foot on your cruise? The Stockholm archipelago is such a beautiful area. What time of the year were you there? What was your favorite thing doing the sightseeing boat tour? Feel free to share some more from your Swedish adventure 🙂

Hi Veronica,

It’s really nice to read an article like yours to know Sweden better, especially when we are still in confinement caused by COVID-19. If the situation gets control, Stockholm will be my next destination. The old town, museums, and the Fika & Dagens trigger my interests very much.

I also love how you share the costs involved in traveling in Sweden, which makes this article a good reference for future travel. I will bookmark your article and come back very soon. 🙂

Cheers, Matt

Glad you enjoyed it. It sounds like you area foodie 🙂 me too. Don’t miss fika and dagens when you do go! When the time comes for you to travel to Sweden, I will be happy to help you out, just let me know!

Thank you Veronica for this very helpful and detailed article. I like how you spelled out the necessary things anyone will have to know before going to Sweden. I like how you also listed places one can visit. Sweden is a really lovely place and I will definitely add Sweden to the list of places I would like to visit. You have really convinced and I’m happy about it. It really is a place one can really relax after months of working in a stressful environment. Sweden definitely is a place for different types of people with different preferences to explore. Very lovely article and keep up the good work. Cheers

Thank you, glad you found it helpful.

Hi Veronica.

It’s really nice to read an article like yours to know Sweden better, especially when we are still in confinement caused by COVID-19. I hadn’t realized before that Stockholm was set on islands.

Thank you for putting together this wealth of info on your home country! We then cruised out through the Stockholm Archipelago in glorious sunshine – it was so beautiful…

Also, our travel to Sweden became more easier and educational because of your valuable information. We had a heavenly experience in Sweden. I would surely recommend my friends to visit Sweden.

Great post, keep up the good work!

Hi Samantha,

Glad you enjoyed the post! Thank you for stopping by,

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling, but what a wonderful looking place to explore.

Can you please recommend a good tour company for a single female traveler for Midsommer 2023? My birthday is June 21 and I’ve always wanted to be in Sweden to celebrate the summer solstice!

Hi Cassie, Midsummer is such a fun time to be in Sweden, it’s really a unique experience. Are you looking for a “classic” midsummer spent in Dalarna (mid Sweden)? There is a bus company Röke Bus, that does bus trips from southern Sweden to Dalarna over midsummer. They have pick-up/drop-off in Malmö, Helsingborg and other southern Swedish cities. It’s a 4 day trip and you get to experience a true classic midsummer. I don’t know your age, but these trips tend to attract middle age and retired travelers. Now the website is all in Swedish, but I will be happy to contact them for you and see if they have some information in English and also make sure that the tour guide speaks English. Feel free to take a look at it here, https://www.rokebuss.se/midsommar-i-dalarna-4-dagar . Similar bus trips also departs from Gothenburg and south west part of Sweden.

Is this what you are looking for or do you want a tour company to put something together for you? I will be happy to help,

Planning a trip to Kiruna and Abisko in February 2024. It will be and my friend. Our ages are 57 and 68. Cost wise, is it better to book everything ourselves or reach out to a tour company. It appears I can book lodging, activities for about 1/2 , not including airfare. What do you suggest?

Hi Susan, How exciting, northern parts of Sweden is beautiful that time of year. Hopefully you’ll get to see the Northern Lights when you are there as well. If you know what to book, you feel comfortable booking it yourself and you can book it for half the price, I would say go ahead and book it yourself. Just make sure you know the terms for booking the accommodation and activities. Personally I prefer booking hotels with free cancelation/pay at the location when possible. Booking directly with the hotels and activities gives you direct communication which is nice. Let me know if you have any further questions,

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Sweden Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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Top 5 things to see and do in sweden.

1. Explore Stockholm

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

2. Catch the Midsummer Festival

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

3. Visit Gotland

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

4. Hike the Kungsleden (King’s Trail)

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

5. Brave the cold in Lapland

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

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

2. Stay in the Ice Hotel

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

3. Tour the Stockholm Archipelago

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

4. Visit Gothenburg

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

5. Explore the Bohuslän Coast

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

6. Go skiing

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

7. Kick back in Uppsala

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

8. Celebrate Valborg Day

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

9. Check out Wallander’s Ystad

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

10. Visit Kosterhavet National Park

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

11. Visit the Vasa Museum

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

12. Let loose at Liseberg

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

13. Explore the Universeum

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

14. See the Northern Lights

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

15. See Stockholm’s stunning subway art

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

16. Visit Drottningholm Palace

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

17. Experience the Göta Canal

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

18. Get outside in the national parks

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

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

• Gothenburg Travel Guide
• Stockholm Travel Guide

Sweden Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Sweden Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Sweden Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Sweden

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

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

How to Get Around Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To find routes and prices for trains around Sweden (and Europe), use Trainline .

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

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

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

When to Go to Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sweden Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Stockholm Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

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

The 9 Best Hostels in Stockholm

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

The Swedish Birthday Party

10 Ways to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

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Sweden - known for the beautiful archipelagos

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Hiking in the beautiful national parks in Sweden is a great experience

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Skiing in Sweden is a big activity in wintertime

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Sweden Travel Guide

Sweden is a fascinating country with a unique nature, history and culture.

North of the Arctic Circle you find some of the most beautiful national parks, and here the Midnight Sun shines in summer, and the Northern Lights light up the night sky in the wintertime.

Stockholm , Sweden's trendsetting capital, is a beautiful mix of intact medieval architecture and elegant modern design. It is built on 14 islands, linked by bridges and ferries, so there is always water in view. 

Short facts about Sweden

Sweden is a long, narrow country and the countryside in Sweden varies from rocky beaches to lush forests, beautiful lakes and idyllic farmlands with little red cottages. Sweden has achieved an excellent standard of living like the other Nordic countries.  They have a mixed system of high-tech capitalism and extensive welfare benefits, and the labour force is highly skilled.

Resources like timber, hydropower, and iron are constitutes, and the economy is oriented towards foreign trade. Most of the companies are privately owned and many with a focus on engineering and communication technology. Sweden is a member of the Schengen agreement.

The people in Sweden

Swedes are formal people and, at all times, serious-minded. On many occasions, Sweden has been the conscience of the world. Swedes are proud of their country, its lakes and forest and natural beauty. A characteristic is "svårmod", melancholia which perhaps derives from the long, dark winters. This characteristic can maybe also explains the Swedish enthusiasm for parties ex. Walpurgis Night the eve of 1 May, and they love to dance and sing - no surprise that the popular music group ABBA is from Sweden.

The Sami people living in the north of Sweden are fun-loving people. The Sami's life approach to life is rational, a system based on generations of experience on a rugged, unforgiving landscape.

  The Nobel Prize ceremonies in Stockholm and Oslo

Every December, the prestigious Nobel Prize  is presented at ceremonies in Stockholm and Oslo. In Konserthuset in Stockholm, the award ceremony takes place, and there is a prize in physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine and literature. Since 1969 Bank of Sweden has given an award for economic sciences. In Oslo, The Nobel Peace Prize is presented on the same day.

Alfred Nobel (1833-96) was a chemist and inventor, and he left a fortune, which is why it each year is possible to give many millions each year to the winners.

Allemansrätten - Right of Public Access

One of the unique joys of living in Sweden is allemansrätten, or the Right of Public Access. It is an unwritten right of access that permits the Swedes to hunt and fish and walk and camp for one night anywhere, provided they do no damage, do not fell live trees, or allow fires to get out of control. Over time these absolute rights have been restricted to accept the need for regulation in a civilised society. Hunting is regulated; fishing requires permits except on the coast and in the largest lakes. Camping is not allowed on obviously private land.

But the general rule is that visitors are allowed to walk across lands at a reasonable distance from houses, yards, gardens and fenced-in areas. With this right comes the responsibility to tread carefully and show consideration for landowners and others.

Famous brands from Sweden

• Hennes & Mauritz 
• Ingmar Bergman
• Pippi Longstocking
• Absolut Vodka
• Vikings  

Climate in Sweden

The climate in Sweden is milder than you might expect because of the warm Gulf Stream. From March to May it is spring, and the summer runs from June to August. The seasons in Sweden is quite different depending on where you visit the country. The country is divided into three major regions: Götaland (south), Svealand (middle) and Norrland in the north.

Most people think of winter when they hear of Sweden. But because of the warm Gulf Stream, the climate here can be much milder than you might expect. Spring, summer, fall and winter each have their unique personalities. Spring runs from March/April to May, summer from June to August, fall from September to October/November and winter from November/December to March/February.

What to See and Do in Sweden

Most Popular Attractions

Nature & Wildlife

Royal Attractions

Top 9 Museums

Top 9 Family Attractions

Popular Outdoor Activities

Heritage Sweden

Best season

Getting to Sweden

Recommended cities in sweden.

Popular Regions in Sweden

Swedish Lapland

West Sweden

Southern Sweden

Recommended castle & manors.

Sundbyholm Castle & Manor

Wallby Manor

Mauritzberg Castle

Facts - sweden, explore more.

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Reasons to Visit Sweden

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The Stockholm Archipelago

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Michelin Restaurants in Sweden

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Travel Guide Sweden

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

Where to go in Sweden

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

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

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

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

The 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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updated 07.05.2021

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12 concrete tips for travelling responsibly

Sustainable travel isn’t just about flying or not. It involves many choices along the journey – from your destination and how long you stay to where and what you shop, eat and stay. By asking questions and making informed choices, you can make a difference.

• Sweden is the world’s most sustainable travel destination, according to Euromonitor International's 2023 Sustainable Travel Index.
• Gothenburg , Sweden’s second-largest city, has ranked as the world's most sustainable destination according to the Global Destination Sustainability Index seven times in a row. Liseberg, one of the city’s main attractions, was the first amusement park in the world to receive an ISO 20121 certification for its sustainable management.
• Sweden’s goal is to be fossil-free and climate-neutral by 2045.

Before you go

Travelling responsibly is all about making informed choices. Choose your destination and what time to travel carefully from an environmental, social and economic perspective. Plan your trip well in advance to be able to travel more sustainably.

Tip: Travel & Climate is a Swedish platform that makes it easier for consumers to choose low-carbon by calculating trip footprints. It was initiated by a network affiliated with the Centre for Tourism at the University of Gothenburg.

Swedish archipelago life

Sweden has been named the most sustainable travel destination in the world.

Photo : Tina Axelsson/imagebank.sweden.se

Gammelstad Church Town, Luleå

Photo : Peter Rosén/Lappland Media AB

Sweden's railway system

Photo : Jann Lipka/imagebank.sweden.se

Sweden is not only known for its accessible natural wonders , well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites and progressive lifestyle. Besides being the world’s most sustainable travel destination, Sweden…

• …is a democracy with the right of freedom of expression and information, freedom of demonstration and freedom of assembly, which are central to democracy.
• …is firm on laws to prevent ill health and accidents at work to create a good working environment and favourable conditions in most companies in the hospitality industry.
• …has also been ranked the number one country in the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index for the last six years (2016-2022).

Eco-conscious travel to Sweden

Travellers from Europe can advantageously choose to travel to Sweden by train , rent an electric car or book a climate-smart bus trip.

For long-distance visitors, flying may be the only option. If you travel by air, use the acronym NERD (New, Economy, Regular, Direct) to guide you in your choice of flight. Newer, more energy-efficient aircraft and non-stop flights minimise your carbon footprint, as well as travelling in economy and packing light.

Most airlines allow travellers to carbon offset their journey. With some airlines, you can also buy biofuel. By investing in the development of renewable fuels, you can contribute to the development of aviation.

Tip: Fly Green Fund is a Swedish non-profit organisation that helps you reduce your flight carbon footprint by replacing fossil jet fuel with sustainable aviation fuels.

Winter cabin

Take a workation in a cabin outside Kiruna in the north of Sweden. The Northern Lights and star-filled clear skies help set the mood.

Photo : Asaf Kliger/imagebank.sweden.se

Workation in Sweden

Photo : Denise Lissert/Visit Sweden

Catching lobster in West Sweden

Photo : Roger Borgelid/Wetsweden.com

Take your time

This applies in particular to travellers arriving by air. Avoid multiple short trips to various places and opt to discover more in the local area of your chosen destination. Why not stay for a workcation or take the opportunity to visit another Nordic country? Just imagine having the Northern Lights as your office view or, for any night owls, to work in the light of the Midnight Sun for a month or two…

When to travel

There are several benefits of travelling during the low season. By avoiding destinations during high season, you won’t contribute to mass tourism that damages the environment. You’ll help local companies to stay open all year round, which is socially and economically sustainable. An additional bonus for you will be that the prices are generally lower, and you’ll get to enjoy your destination without the crowds.

Example: Instead of visiting the west coast during the busy summer months, come in autumn and experience the lobster season . Or skip the ski resorts during the Christmas peak and throw yourself down the slopes on a downhill mountain bike during summer.

Sustainable accommodation

There are many certifications and labels for hotels in Sweden. Bergaliv Loft House is a getaway built in harmony with nature on Åsberget mountain in northern Sweden.

Photo : Martin Edström/imagebank.sweden.se

Sápmi Nature Camp, Swedish Lapland

Photo : Lennart Pittja/Sápmi Nature/imagebank.sweden.se

Naturbyn, Värmland

Green accommodations

Sweden generally has very good working conditions. Whichever hotel you choose, you can be sure that employees have positive working environments. And for those longing for unique accommodations close to nature, you’ve come to the right place. The Swedish forests are scattered with sustainable eco-lodges and glamping tents .

Sweden does not have a national labelling program regarding sustainability in the hospitality industry. Instead, there are many certifications and labels for hotels, including ISO , Swedish Welcome , Green Key , Nordic Swan Ecolabel and Krav .

Also, Swedish hotel chains are at the forefront of communicating their sustainability efforts.

• Strawberry (former Nordic Choice Hotels) has six sustainability focus areas , including ethical trade and diversity, and all hotels are ISO 14001 certified.
• All Swedish Scandic Hotels carry the Nordic Swan Ecolabel and continually work to improve their sustainable solutions in everything from emissions to waste.
• Elite Hotels’ environmental work permeates everything from consumables to water consumption, and all hotels are certified by Green Key.

Siberian Huskies in the woods

Jokkmokkguiderna is a Nature's Best-approved company that provides dog sledding adventures in Swedish Lapland.

Photo : Anna Öhlund/imagebank.sweden.se

Photo : Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

Eco-friendly things to see and do

To get the most out of your holiday with the least possible impact, turn to local operators and guides. Not only will you support the local economy and employment, but you’ll also get those expert tips and hidden gems that will make your trip memorable.

Different labels in different parts of the country gather companies with high quality and sustainability standards within ecotourism. Here are a few:

• Nature’s Best is Sweden’s only sustainability label for nature-based experiences. It relies on six ecotourism principles and gathers everything from accommodation and Sámi experiences to dog sledding and archipelago cruises – in total about 35 companies all over the country.
• Västerbotten Experience is an initiative where companies in Västerbotten county work together for more sustainable experiences. It’s based on sustainability criteria set by GSTC and gathers more than 80 companies within accommodation, nature, culture and food.
• ‘Hållbarhetsklivet’ (Stepping up Sustainability) is a joint initiative for a sustainable tourism industry in West Sweden. It gathers some 60 companies in Gothenburg city and the provinces of Bohuslän , Dalsland and Västergötland, many of them the most acclaimed businesses in the region.
• Sustainable Plejs is an EU project from Sweden’s largest island, Gotland . It gathers companies from all over the island – including a range of hotels and restaurants – and the idea is to work locally and organically to make Gotland a living and sustainable place year-round.

Did you know? The vital Swedish startup scene has gained considerable international attention. Still, Sweden has a long history of innovation and is ranked as the third most innovative country in the world, according to the Global Innovation Index 2022. One extraordinary Swedish tech innovation is the eco-friendly shower Orbital , installed at several hotels in Sweden, including Treehotel.

Restaurant at Furillen, Gotland

Food waste is a significant challenge and you as a restaurant guest can make a difference through small means.

Drinking water in nature

Photo : Moa Karlberg/imagebank.sweden.se

Eat and drink with low impact

The Michelin Guide’s Green Star highlights restaurants at the forefront of the industry regarding their sustainable practices, which currently includeds eight Swedish restaurants scattered across the country. Similarly, the 360°Eat Guide ranks restaurants by sustainability, social and environmental, and gastronomy and awarded 35 restaurants in Sweden in 2022.

Besides the high climate impact of meat, food waste is a significant challenge in the hospitality industry. Many Swedish restaurants are engaged in reducing them and improving their sustainability practices. As a restaurant guest, you can make a difference through small means, too.

• At buffets, choose more vegetables and don’t take more food than you can eat.
• Choose local and seasonal food. Not only will you get fresher produce and learn about the destination’s culinary heritage – you’ll also leave a positive impact on both the environment and the local economy.
• If you’ve booked a table and can’t come, cancel the booking in good time so the restaurant can adapt.

Did you know? Swedish tap water is of high quality and perfectly safe to drink. In fact, Sweden is consistently ranked as one of the top countries in the world with the best drinking water. Drinking water straight from the tap is the norm, even at restaurants. So, there is no need to buy water in single-use plastic bottles.

Polkagrisar candy canes

'Polkagrisar' are a typical Swedish sweet made in Gränna, Småland.

Photo : Tina Stafrén/imagebank.sweden.se

Organic farm shop

Sustainable shopping

While shopping and consuming aren’t directly compatible with sustainability, many visitors want to buy souvenirs to take home with them. Then, some choices are better than others. First, avoid mass-produced items made on the other side of the world. Buy products made in Sweden that have been manufactured with sustainability in mind.

Sweden is scattered with farm shops selling local and small-scale produce. A day trip in the countryside is an experience in itself. And while shopping for typical Swedish food products such as flatbread, lingonberry jam, Kalix Caviar, candy canes (‘polkagrisar’) and dried reindeer meat, you can take the opportunity to enjoy a classic Swedish ‘ fika ’.

Swedish fashion is made to last, and Swedish design is made to be used. Go for a design object that is functional, sustainable and of good quality, made to be used over and over. Or select a garment that symbolises what Swedish fashion is all about – sustainability, timelessness, and minimalism. And, not to forget: Swedes are good at reuse, which means there are many high-quality vintage and second-hand shops in the cities selling pre-loved clothes and furnishing.

Biking in Stockholm

Swedish cities are designed for walking and biking. The lush island of Djurgården is one of Stockholm's main attractions for leisure and recreation.

Travel by train in Sweden

Carbon-neutral t ravel within the country

Walk and cycle whenever possible. Swedish cities are designed for pedestrians and cyclists. Streets have pavements and cycle paths, and cycle racks are on almost every corner.

Use public transportation . Sweden has an extensive public transport system with subway, tram and bus, and you can usually pay with your card.

If you need a taxi or rental car, choose an electric vehicle if possible. Taxi Stockholm, the largest taxi company in Stockholm, is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified and aims for all cars to be emission-free by 2030. Taxi Kurir, which operates in several Swedish cities, is ISO 14001 certified and seeks to have a fossil-free vehicle fleet by 2025.

Train journeys in Sweden are the most climate-friendly in all of Europe. Travelling by train with Sweden’s largest railway company, SJ , is virtually emission-free, as most electricity comes from renewable energy sources. Beautiful views are a bonus!

For years, Swedish domestic aviation has allowed travellers to fly with sustainably produced biofuel. Several Swedish airlines also offset emissions that cannot be minimised.

Tip: In June 2023, the world’s first self-driving electric ferry set sail in Stockholm. The ferry, named MF Estelle after Princess Estelle, takes passengers (and their bikes) between the islands of Kungsholmen and Södermalm in just six minutes. The ferry is largely charged by solar panels on the roof, and the self-driving makes the journey both more punctual and more energy efficient.

If you can’t find info about sustainability…. Ask!

Sustainability is so integrated into the Swedish lifestyle, and things like good working conditions and organic produce are so natural that we don’t even reflect on it or talk about it. Some local producers have high sustainable standards but can’t afford a certification, making communication even more critical. And if a company can’t meet your requests, your questions can contribute to raising awareness and actualising the issue. So, in the long run, you contribute to driving development.

Picking blueberries

Blueberry picking in Heråmaden nature reserve. Thanks to Sweden's Right of Public Access, everyone can enjoy Sweden’s outdoors, including picking mushrooms, herbs and berries.

Stora Karlsö, Gotland

Photo : Stora Karlsö

Stora Karlsö

Leave without a trace

Everyone is free to roam the Swedish nature thanks to the Right of Public Access (‘Allemansrätten’). The guiding principle for this unique right – which lets you camp in forests, swim in lakes and pick as many berries as you can carry – is “don’t disturb and don’t destroy”.

Recycling is natural to Swedes; you will see trash bins with different containers for plastic, paper, glass, metal, food waste, etc., wherever you go.

…or do good with your mere presence

At some destinations, visitors are crucial for a sustainable ecosystem. One example is Stora Karlsö, an island outside Gotland. The whole island is certified by Nature’s Best and is the second oldest conservation area in the world, widely known for its abundant bird life. Stora Karlsö is a vital site for the endangered Baltic Sea guillemots, which nest on the steep cliffs. During the coronavirus pandemic, when the island was closed to visitors, large groups of sea eagles arrived instead and frightened and disturbed the guillemots to the extent that the number of hatchlings decreased by at least 25 per cent. Scientists monitored the situation and found that the visitors to Stora Karlsö acted like “seabird guardians”, according to an article in Biological Conservation. The conclusion was that, in some cases, human presence can be used to protect sensitive animal populations.

By travelling consciously, you will create lasting values not only for yourself but for society and the planet.

Related articles

Discover sweden by train – scenic views and climate-friendly travel, 10 sustainable swedish food and drink experiences, unique accommodation close to nature – 29 sustainable places to stay, uncover sweden's impressive and lesser-known world heritage sites.

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:

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

Is Stockholm Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Stockholm

Is Sweden Expensive? A Sweden Trip Cost Guide

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.

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 🙂

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!

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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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Sweden

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Take our Sweden travel trips and plan a perfect adventure in Scandinavia’s rugged-yet-sophisticated gem. With this travel guide, you won’t miss a thing!

Ah, Sweden. Where else in the world do you get to enjoy medieval cities, vast rugged outdoors, castles, far-flung islands, and supreme quality of life? Don’t just hit Stockholm and call it a trip- there’s so much to see and do up here, especially for travellers who love the outdoors! Skiing, boating, hiking, swimming, wildlife watching, the list goes on and on in this dynamic country. And of course, you’ll be finishing your big days in true Swedish style with baked goods, coffee, and good company. Perfection!

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Rainbow over Swedish Lapland valley Sweden

Sweden, located on the Scandinavian Peninsula, is a sloping land of high mountains and coastline. Bordering Norway, Finland, and the Baltic Sea, Sweden is covered in lakes, forests, and rocky coasts. Thanks to the moderate southwesterly winds and (relatively) warm North Atlantic Current, it’s not always the ice-clad country you might have expected it to be! Here, the standard of living and life expectancy rate among the highest in the world. The capital city of Stockholm is known as a metropolis inhabited by happy citizens who enjoy the typically exceptional Scandinavian quality of life. Aside from Stockholm, the vibrant city of Gothenburg on the west coast also attracts a sizeable number of visitors each year.

Travellers to Sweden often come for the historically and culturally impressive cities, but those who love the outdoors will be enthralled by the expansive, largely untouched natural landscape. Roughly divided into three regions, Sweden is comprised of the forested and mountainous Norrland in the north, a lowland swath called Svealand in the middle, and the southern Götaland, which includes highlands and plains. While the coastline is a draw for many, the pristine Norrland region is a favourite among adventurers, with the Kölen Mountains and their glaciers beckoning. With the northern lights dazzling overhead, Sweden is a must-visit for adventure travellers the world over.

Best Places to Visit

As the capital of Sweden, Stockholm is by far the most-visited Swedish destination. As the largest city in Scandinavia, it’s a mecca for cultural and historical exploration and provides a convenient hub to branch out of as you explore further-flung regions. Stockholm is full of splendid Swedish architecture, great galleries, and lovely museums and parks, making it a very pretty city to wander. Notably, it feels remarkably peaceful for its size.

Separated into five districts, you’re able to explore areas with distinct vibes and personalities. Norrmalm is the downtown centre, where shopping and the Royal Opera await. Djugården is a beautiful island with a palace and several parks, including an amusement park. Östermalm is a chic, mostly residential zone with lots of restaurants and bars. Gamla Stan is a little peek into Sweden’s past, with cobbled streets and old buildings, including Parliament. Finally, Södermalm is a fun boho district that blends old and new in its shopping and food scene.

Hut Houses by the sea in Faro Sweden

Gothenburg doesn’t see nearly as many travellers as Stockholm, but that doesn’t mean you should skip it! With a relaxed feel, tons of green space, and an easily explored compact centre, Gothenburg is a breezy stop for adventurers. Window shop along the Avenyn, visit the wooded zoo of Slottsskogen, check out the Natural History Museum or Museum of Fine Art, or settle in at the Gothenburg Opera. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a sunny day, we love packing a picnic and hanging out in Trädgårdsföreningen (a mouthful!), a park in the middle of the city bursting with local plants

If you’re inclined to get out of the city without going too far, Delsjön is a stunning natural area just outside of Gothenburg with forested trails, serene lakes, and 500 acres of space for hikes and walks. If you swing by in the summertime, you can rent a canoe and enjoy a paddle before taking the tram back into the city. If you’re based here, try hopping over to Marstrand for the day to catch the Match Cup Sweden, an exhilarating sailing competition.

Seeking some sun? While Sweden can get a bit overcast at times, the island of Gotland tends to hold onto the sun better than other regions, making it a hotspot, pun intended, when the weather’s nice. Surrounded by the Baltic Sea on all sides, it’s a perfect retreat. Explore the walled Hanseatic city of Visby decked out with medieval architecture, or just lay out a blanket on the shores and soak up those rays.

Swedish Lapland

Those planning an adventure travel trip to Sweden can’t skip Swedish Lapland (defined “Swedish” to distinguish it from neighbouring Finnish Lapland)! This far-north locale is above the Arctic Circle, making it a haven of daylight in the summer months. Those who love to canoe, watch wildlife, dog sled, ski, snowshoe, or enjoy the northern lights will feel right at home here.

Want to see the best of Swedish Lapland? Start in Stromsund and drive the 359.0 km Wilderness Way to Vilhelmina. It’s a journey for the books!

Kosterhavet National Park

With so many kilometres of coastline, Sweden is a natural destination for adventurers who love the sea. Kosterhavet National Park is the country’s first protected marine environment, making it the perfect place to experience the Swedish coast in all its glory. On the Norweigan border, the park is home to over 6,000 species of marine life, some unique to this region of the country. Those who snorkel or dive can enjoy coral reefs aplenty!

Travellers looking to enjoy the park can stay in Sydkoster if they want the island experience, or book a night on the mainland in Strömstad, the nearest well-equipped city to the park.

Gamla Stan Stockholm Sweden historical city

There’s more to do in Sweden than most people can fit into one trip. Guess you’ll just have to come back! To start building out an itinerary, here are some of our favourite things to do in Sweden.

With seemingly endless forest and coastline, hikers in Sweden are in for a treat. Since the country holds deep historical roots, you could be strolling the same trails as Vikings or stumbling upon ancient ruins in wide-open meadows.

One of the easiest home bases for your hiking escapades is Åre, a charming village in the mountains with excellent proximity to trailheads.

Check out some of the best hiking routes in Sweden if you need some inspiration or get some help planning your hikes , and then all that’s left to do is lace up and head on out.

With over 3,200.0 km of coastline and 100,000 lakes, it’s hard to resist enjoying the water in a Swedish summer. Sailing is a national pastime here, and canoeing, kayaking, and paddling are go-to ways to spend a sunny summer day (or night, since you’ll enjoy up to 24 hours of sun depending how far north you are).

You can try your hand at sailing along the sea or rent a smaller craft for a lazy day on the lake. Tour the islands that dot the coast, or float in a serene lake surrounded by towering trees. It doesn’t matter how you do it, just take advantage of that beautiful water!

Sweden’s got slopes, Sweden’s got snow… Seems it’s all covered! Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, alpine or cross-country, there’s a line for you to enjoy here. Åre is Northern Europe’s biggest resort, offering runs of every flavour. Shred piste or off-piste, hit the park, telemark, carve, heli-ski, or hit the bunny slope. This resort has it all.

If you’re looking for a backcountry feel, Riksgränsen is perfect. This far-north resort has tons of off-piste runs that range from accessible to extreme, making it an ideal outing if you’re after a wild feel with or without a ton of experience. Since it’s so far north, you won’t be dodging any trees and you can hit the trails in the summer months under the midnight sun.

Many resorts in Sweden also offer heli-skiing trips for the experienced adventurer.

Gotaland Baltic Sea Lighthouse Gaveskar Sweden

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is a necessity in some far-flung northern regions, but also a key dose of adrenalin for many travellers and locals alike in Sweden. Many of the ski resorts, including Riksgränsen and Åre, offer snowmobile tours and sleds for rent. With so much pristine snow to tear up, Sweden is a snowmobiling mecca. If you’re going to get snowed on, you might as well enjoy it, right?

Dog Sledding

Imagine mushing your own team of lightning-fast huskies as the northern lights glimmered overhead. Dreamy, right? Dog sledding is something that most people never get to try, so take advantage of the availability of the sport if you’re in Sweden. Many ski resorts in Sweden offer dog sledding experiences. The ski resorts in Sweden really have it all, don’t they? You can book a short excursion or go all-in on a multi-day expedition. The energy of the dogs, the forest flying by, the cold air on your face- it’s a rush you won’t ever forget!

Planning your perfect Sweden trip? Booking a guided or self-guided tour can take the stress off, allowing you to soak up the scenery while your accommodations, transport, meals, and activities are looked after. We add more adventure tours all the time, so check back soon to see what incredible trips we’ve added in Sweden!

Hiking backpacking Gaddede Sweden

Sweden is roughly divided into three regions: the mountains and forest in the north, an expanse of lowland in the east with highland in the west, and the southern highlands and plains of the south. Sweden’s outdoors are, of course, shaped by the harsh winters and mild summers; this is a true explorer’s paradise.

Adventurers are often drawn to the sparsely populated north, where rounded mountains, lakes, and river valleys dominate the landscape. Norrland covers about three-fifths of Sweden but contains only a fraction of its population. The Kölen Mountains run along the western edge of the region on the border with Norway. These peaks are chock-full of glaciers and they house Sweden’s highest summits: Mount Kebne ( 2,111 m ) and Mount Sarek ( 2,089 m ). Speaking of Sarek, Sarek National Park is a magnificent spot to explore should you find yourself in Norrland.

Svealand is the core of Sweden and where the name “Sweden” actually came from. The landscape here is largely lowland. There are many small factories in Svealand, but adventurers will be more inclined to explore the forests, which offer pretty canyons, hidden lakes, and plenty of greenery.

Gotaland comprises the central regions of Småland and Götaland. Götaland is known for its highlands and rich plains. Interior Småland is largely forested and looks like what many people would consider “typical” Sweden to be. There is a lovely stretch of high coast in the Bothnian plain, but the rest of the regions in Småland are low-lying. You’ll find plenty of lakes, some farmland, and mixed forests in this interior region, along with some of Sweden’s oldest settled areas.

The coastline of Sweden draws many visitors due to its abundance of small, sometimes wooded islands ripe for exploring by boat and home to an abundance of marine life.

Huvudskar Stockholm Sweden little red summer houses

Okay, so we’ve got stunning geography, a high standard of living, cultural and historical depth, and lots to do. Unfortunately, all that adds up to Sweden being a more expensive destination on average. Fear not, though! We’ve still got tips and tricks to make travelling in Sweden possible on a tighter budget. We’ll talk about prices in USD, but know that Sweden uses the Swedish Krona (SEK). One US dollar is equivalent to 8.45 krona at the time of publication.

Relatively separated from the vast majority of Europe and the rest of the world, most visitors to Sweden will be arriving by plane. Visitors from North America should budget approximately $1200-$1500 for their tickets. Thanks to much lower flight costs, those arriving from Europe could pay anywhere from $150 to $500 depending on their city of origin. If you’re already travelling in other parts of Europe, there’s an argument to be made for tacking on the trip to Sweden if you have the time.

Accommodation

Where you rest your head each night can be one of your best budgeting tools. Expect to spend about $75-$120 per night for a midrange hotel or about $30 per night for a budget hotel or hostel. High-end hotel rooms can be booked for north of $500 per night.

Norrland Himmel Sweden in Summer

Daily Expenses

While the cost of your day-to-day in Sweden can be highly variable, expect to budget anywhere between $50 and $80 per day for food, travel, and sightseeing. If you’re planning a special excursion like skiing or dog sledding, we recommend choosing a provider beforehand and budgeting according to their costs.

Restaurant meals start at about $15 and a pint of beer will run you about $6. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are taxed heavily in Sweden, so a mixed drink can easily be twice as expensive as a beer. Expect fast food meals to come in around $8 and a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant to run about $40.

Tips and Gratuities

Travellers from heavy-tipping countries, take note! Tipping in Sweden typically happens at a much smaller percentage than you may be used to. It’s generally welcome but not expected. You can round up the bill a bit for good service, for example, from 380 SEK to 400 SEK. Generally, servers won’t be offended if you tip less and won’t be expecting anything more.

Tipping hotel staff is not expected, but it’s nice if they went above and beyond for you. Porters and coatroom attendants often already have a fixed fee.

In taxis or shuttles, a couple of extra kronor is sufficient. Tour guides can be tipped about 100 kronor per day at the end of the tour. For a short tour, 10-15% of the cost is great.

From a past of violent Viking raids, Sweden is one of the safest countries in the world, making it a laid-back destination for travellers. Pillaging rates have dropped significantly since ye olden days.

As you would anywhere else, t’s always a good idea to watch your bags and wallets in crowded places, be cautious when using ATMs, and practice vigilance when alone, out at night, or when approached by strangers. Ignore people trying to engage with you in crowded areas as pickpocketing scams are a threat.

Some travellers to Sweden have been targeted by scams, particularly when it comes to hailing a cab. Since the taxi industry is deregulated here, issues with cabs charging obscene fees and targeting foreigners have been reported. We recommend booking cabs only with larger, reputable companies (Taxi Stockholm, Södertälje Taxi, Taxi Kurir, Taxi Nynäs, Taxi 020, Varmdo Taxi, Ekerö Taxi, Norrtälje Taxi, Top Cab, Roslags Taxi). If you’re struggling to tell what’s what, you can always ask a restaurant or bar employee to call you a cab from a reputable company. Avoid one-off cars outside bars or clubs. Look for the pricing stickers on the passenger windows, keeping in mind that a reasonable fare for 10km or 15 minutes should be no higher than 400kr. Know that the price should always be charged in kronor; being charged in euros means you’re being taken advantage of.

Travellers who intend to hike, ski, mountain bike, or otherwise take an adventure travel trip in Sweden should take extra precautions, like gathering detailed information on their routes, ensuring they’re well-equipped, making themselves aware of the conditions, and considering hiring a local guide.

Oscar Fredrik Church Oscar Fredriks kyrkogata Gothenburg Sweden

Most travelling to Sweden come between June and August when the warm summer weather and enduring sunshine are present. If you’re keen to explore the cities, boat, paddle, hike, or swim, summer is the perfect time to make the trip. If you’re more interested in snowmobiling, skiing, and spotting the northern lights, December through March are ideal.

The busiest season in Sweden is July and August, so be prepared for potentially heavier crowds around tourist attractions should you choose to visit during the summer.

Good news for travellers: there are lots of ways to get around Sweden. It’s pretty much a model country when it comes to transportation. Expect efficient, comfortable, and clean transportation.

If you’re needing to travel lengthwise across Sweden, flying can cut down on transit time. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the biggest airport in the country, and you can jet around to regional airports quite easily. Note that if you happen to be travelling to Malmo, flying into Copenhagen and taking the train to Malmo is actually the fastest way to arrive.

Trains are the easiest (and most scenic!) way to travel through Sweden. Modern, comfortable trains can zip you around in any weather condition. Look for the state-run Statens Jarnvagar (SJ), or the private Arriva and Oresundstag trains.

If you’re visiting Sweden in the summertime, definitely hop on the Inlandsbanan scenic train, which allows you to customize an itinerary to see Sweden from south to north.

Public transportation in the cities is generally very reliable. Grab a Stockholm Card at a local tourist office to enjoy some free rides (including ferries) as you bus your way around the city.

Sea marine life Kosterhavet National Park Ekenas Sweden

If you prefer total control over your travel plans and the flexibility to move around without a schedule, renting a car might be the best way to get around Sweden. This is especially true if you’re going to be out in the wilderness where regular bus transport might not be available, or if you’re just a diehard fan of road trip karaoke.

You can rent a car from many big-name brands (Budget, Avis, Europcar) in the airport or in city centres. Generally, drivers will need to be at least 20 years of age and there’s usually no need for an international license.

Keep a few general rules in mind: headlights are required all times of day, snow tires are required from December through March, keep an eye out for wildlife while driving, and know that Sweden’s laws are very strict when it comes to drinking and driving, so it’s best to avoid even one glass if you intend to get behind the wheel.

When you travel to Sweden, you’ll have a few choices of where to rest your head each night.

For those on a budget, hostels are available. Check out Hostel World for locations throughout the country.

Sweden is a camper’s paradise. Allemansrätten (the freedom to roam) is protected under Swedish law, and this extends to camping rights. You can pitch a tent nearly anywhere in the wilderness as long as you’re away from private dwellings and you practice basic principles of respect: pack in and pack out, don’t damage the land, do not pull bark or saplings for fire, and obey limits on campfires. Those less interested in wild camping will be pleased to find many organized campsites in Sweden, plenty decked out with facilities to make your adventure more comfortable. Expect to pay between 200 and 300 SEK for a tent pad per night. Check with Camping Key Europe , which oversees 400 campsites that belong to the National Swedish Campsite Association. You’ll need to become a member to use them.

Most travellers to Sweden will stay in hotels, which are safe bets across the country. You’ll be able to find a hotel room nearly anywhere you end up.

Sunset over the ocean and beach Gotland Sweden

To Book Accommodation

These are some of our most-used websites to book hotels on: Booking.com , Hotels.com , Expedia.com , and Agoda.com . For long-term rentals or more unique listings, check with Vrbo.com .

Booking Flights

Trying to snag the best price possible? Check out Skyscanner or CheapOair . Those waiting for the cheapest time to book flights should download the Hopper app.

Train Tickets

Consider the SJ website your train bible while in Sweden. You can purchase tickets and check schedules (in English!) for trains, trams, and more.

To score a deal on your car rental, check Economy Bookings . Leaving your car at the terminal? Try using Airport Parking Reservations to save some cash on airport parking.

Planning on getting out and about? Of course you are. For warm winter threads suitable for the hill or trail, some of our favourites are Arc’teryx , Patagonia , and Helly Hansen . For those needing trail running and hiking gear, check Salomon and the Running Room . And if you plan on doing some hiking and backpacking, gear up through MEC or MSR .

We recommend choosing your gear ahead of time and bringing it with you, as quality outdoor gear is expensive in Sweden.

Are Jamtland Sweden Gondolas Aresjon skiing

Sweden is part of the Schengen zone, a group of countries in Europe with standardized visa requirements. You can find a list of countries whose nationals are required to apply for a visa prior to travelling to Sweden on the Schengen Visa Info website , but always check with your local travel authority to confirm. Depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visa just to change planes in the Schengen area. For quick reference, citizens of Canada and the United States do not require visas. Tourist visas are normally valid for 90 days.

No matter where you fall in terms of your visa, you’ll always need a valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid until 3 months after your departure date. Certain criminal convictions can prevent your entry to Sweden, so it’s good to check ahead to make sure you’re eligible for entry.

Want some fun facts to share with your newfound Swedish friends? Here are some interesting claims to fame for Sweden.

• Fika is the practice of enjoying tea and treats (cake, anyone?) with friends. It’s enjoyed as a respite from the usual day-to-day.
• Swedish astronomer Anders Celsius invented the centigrade system and thermometer.
• More notable Swedes: Alfred Nobel, who the Nobel prize is named for, was Swedish.
• The Stockholm metro system is sometimes called the “world’s longest art exhibition” because it’s absolutely stocked with art! You can find different works and exhibitions throughout about 90 of the 100 stations.
• You’re free to be you here! Sweden has been officially secular for many years, and the social culture is one of progression.
• 2/3 of Sweden is covered in forest, which amounts to a staggering 280,650 square kilometres.
• North Korea owes 2.7 billion SEK to Sweden after the purchase of 1000 Volvo cars in 1974, and the government still sends invoices to North Korea as they haven’t yet paid.
• There are between 300,000 and 400,000 moose living in Sweden. Maybe you’ll spot one!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sweden

Nobody hops on a plane without a few questions first! Hopefully these answers to frequently asked questions about travelling to Sweden help you plan your perfect trip.

Do Swedes speak English?

While the official language of Sweden is Swedish, or Svenska, most people have excellent English. The country ranked 2nd out of 80 countries in the EF English Proficiency Index in 2017, which measures the proficiency of non-native English-speaking countries. You’ll have no problem getting by with English, but it’s still handy to pick up a couple of quick phrases in Swedish.

How should I travel around Sweden?

Trains and buses are the best way to travel within Sweden. They’re well-connected, affordable, and allow you to appreciate the fantastic scenery.

Kayaking with dogs Grebbestad Sweden

Is Sweden cold?

Be prepared, winter visitors! Being so far north, Sweden experiences cold, snowy winters. While you should be prepared with layers any time of year, wintertime calls for excellent cold weather clothing. Bring a warm parka, hat, mittens, good boots, a scarf, and thermal base layers. While summer is much warmer, you’ll still want a coat for the evenings or potentially cooler daytime temperatures.

What part of Sweden is the most beautiful?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? If you love stately architecture, touch down in Stockholm. If you’re looking for mountains, lakes, and forests, head to Småland. Fans of the water will want to hang around Gotland.

What is the food like in Sweden?

Traditional Swedish food is often based around cultured dairy products, breads, berries, meat, and seafood. You’ll find potatoes as a common side dish, especially boiled with dill. Sweetened breads with jam, particularly lingonberry, are a frequent snack. Bread in general is an important part of Swedish cuisine. Carb lovers unite! Try the local thickened fruit soup, or settle in for fika with a common bun, cookie, biscuit, or cinnamon roll.

Swedish people often enjoy an early breakfast, a light early lunch, and a heavy dinner. Snacks and fika are common.

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Sweden Travel Guide

The third largest country in western Europe, Sweden's landscapes are gentler than it's Scandinavian neighbour, Norway. Lakes, forests, rivers and picture-perfect archipelagos provide the backdrop for a wealth of things to do from winter activities under the northern lights to summer wilderness adventures. Our guides offer tips and practical information on travelling to Sweden.

Planning a holiday to Sweden

While Sweden’s long summer days are ideal for exploring, the winter months welcome the magical northern lights and the original Icehotel; find out more about when and where you should visit with our guide.

Best Time to Visit Sweden

Experience the midnight sun during the summer in Sweden or embrace the magic of Swedish lapland in the winter.

Our Top 5 Things To Do At The Icehotel

Here's a round-up of 5 of our favourite things to do at the Icehotel in Swedish Lapland

Aurora Sky Station

Located in Swedish Lapland, the Aurora Sky Station and the surrounding Abisko National Park are world-renowned as one of the best locations for observing the northern lights.

Getting to Sweden

Flying to Sweden is easy. Flights to Stockholm are available from London Heathrow and Manchester year round.

Car Rental in Sweden

We use the services of Europcar for vehicle rental in Sweden.

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Complete Sweden Travel Guide, What You Need to Know

Sweden is a small country in northern Europe with a population of 10 million. It is best known for its archipelago, meatballs, pop music, and Ikea. You will find medieval architecture, picturesque islands, the northern lights, the midnight sun, the world’s longest art exhibit, and Viking history. The country receives over 15 million tourists each year. Planning international travel can be overwhelming and time-consuming while working full time. Use this Sweden travel guide and the following Sweden travel blog posts to plan your perfect vacation. The top destinations in Sweden are Stockholm, Malmö, and Gothenburg.

Why Visit Stockholm Sweden

Stockholm has been called the “Venice of the North” because it is a city of 12 islands connected by 42 bridges. The city has great food, incredible museums, beauty everywhere, and A LOT of stairs! You will find parks, promenades, palaces, incredible museums, subway art installations, a gorgeous cobblestoned old town, canals, and home to the Nobel Prize.

Read 72 Hours in Stockholm Sweden

Why Visit Malmo Sweden

Malmö is Sweden‘s third-largest city and has been named the happiest city in Sweden. It is well known for the photographic Turning Torso building and the Oresund Bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark. You will also find a walkable old town, canals, the Malmö Castle, museums of Nordic history, brightly colored fishing huts, and Ribersborg beach and pier.

Why Visit Gothenburg Sweden

Gothenburg is Sweden’s second-biggest city. The city is the headquarters of Volvo and the location of Liseberg, Scandinavia’s largest theme park. You will also find large green spaces, canals, an archipelago, a historic city center, strong cafe culture, fresh seafood, craft beer, and lots of bicycles.

What You Need to Know When Planning a Trip to Sweden

Where is sweden.

Sweden is in northern Europe on the Scandinavian Peninsula. It is bordered by Norway, Finland, the Gulf of Bothnia, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. Stockholm is the capital and largest city of Sweden.

What is the language in Sweden?

The national language of Sweden is Swedish. You may also hear Finnish, Yiddish, Sami, Meänkieli, and Romani. 89% of people in Sweden speak English. Sweden consistently ranks one of the top three countries in English proficiency and almost everyone under the age of 60 speaks it. It is important to at least try to speak the common language before resorting to English. FluentU offers a helpful list of common words and phrases to learn before you travel.

Do I need a visa to visit Sweden?

According to Project Visa , US citizens do not need a visa for a visit up to 90 days in a 6 month period.

What is the currency in Sweden?

The currency in Sweden is the krona. Although Sweden is part of the EU, euros are not accepted. You may find tourist shops in Stockholm and at some international chain hotels that will accept the euro. The exchange right will not be favorable and change will be given in Krona. US dollars are not accepted at restaurants, attractions, or stores. Don’t be fooled by ‘0 commission’ money exchangers because the ‘service fee’ is high. Be sure to download a free currency calculator before you arrive.

Can I use credit cards and ATMs in Sweden?

ATMs are available throughout Sweden but it may be difficult to spend cash. Sweden plans to become the first cashless nation in the world by 2023. Avoid large fees by using your bank’s international partner in Sweden and google its location before you travel. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Diners Club are widely accepted in Sweden, you will need a 4 digit PIN from the bank. Discover cards are not accepted. Save money on fees with a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and make purchases in krona.

How much should I budget per day in Spain?

According to Budget Your Trip , the average daily cost of traveling in Sweden is $138. Expect to pay $1,936 + airfare for a one-week trip for 2.

When is the best time to visit Sweden?

The best time to visit Sweden is from June to August when cafes and open-air museums are open. This is also high season and flights will be expensive. The sun rises at 3 am and sets at 11 pm during these months.  July is the warmest month with temperatures around 64°F. Expect overnight frost beginning in September and snow in October. Snow will likely remain on the ground through April. February is the coldest month with temperatures around 26°F. The northern lights are common in late March or early April but may be seen as early as September in the north.

What type of transportation does Sweden use?

Stockholm Arlanda Airport is the country’s main international airport. Use the Arlanda Express to reach Stockholms city center in 20 minutes. The public transportation in Stockholm consists of metro (T-Bana), commuter trains, buses, trams, and ferries. Taxis in Sweden run on a fixed rate system. Uber and Bolt are available. The  Stockholm Travelcard includes unlimited travel for 24 hours or 72 hours on Stockholm’s public transport systems. Cities are connected by air, high-speed train, and buses. Domestic flights and car rental is expensive.  An International Driving Permit (IDP) isn’t necessary when renting a car in Sweden, the roads are well-maintained and marked.

What kind of adaptor do I need in Sweden?

The plugs in Sweden are type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter with surge protection . You will need a converter if you plan to use an electric razor or blow dryer from the US.

What should I pack for Sweden?

The overall clothing style in Sweden is fashionable and trendy, bring at least one nice outfit. Jeans are popular. Wear muted or dark colors, and avoid loud designs. The weather fluctuates often, wear layers and be prepared for cold weather and rain. A jacket is necessary for the evening during the midnight sun months. A winter coat, gloves, hat, warm socks, and snow boats may be needed in September. Saunas are popular in Sweden, pack a swimsuit to participate. Wear shoes with cushioned soles for walking on cobbled streets. It stays light until 11pm in the summer, bring an eye mask!

Is Sweden a safe country for solo travelers?

According to Travel Safe Abroad , Sweden is a very safe country for travelers. There is a medium risk of tourists scams and pickpockets. Do not leave belongings unattended and stay aware of your surroundings. Temperatures reach below freezing, dress accordingly. Stay aware of your surroundings, European cities have been targeted for terrorist attacks. Dial 112 in an emergency. Contact the US Embassy for non-urgent emergencies, such as a lost passport.

What foods do I need to try in Sweden?

Meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce, sill (pickled or fried herring), kroppkakor (fried pork wrapped in potato dumplings), falukorv sausage, blood pudding, kalops (meat stew), yellow pea soup, kanelbulle (cinnamon bun), knäckebröd (crispbread), gubbröra (egg-anchovy salad), smörgås (open sandwich), räkmacka (open-faced shrimp sandwich), pyttipanna (Swedish hash), klenät (deep-fried pastry), Swedish pancakes (crepes), r aggmunk (potato pancake), prinsesstårta (yellow sponge cake layered with jam and vanilla custard). Be sure to eat at a Smörgåsbord, a Swedish buffet.

 Tips for Traveling in Sweden

• You will need a credit card, Sweden is moving to a cashless society.
• Tap water is better than bottled water.
• The drinking age in Sweden is 18 but you must be 20 to buy alcohol in stores.
• Nightclub bouncers use face control and will not grant entry if you are not dressed up.
• Alcohol is only sold in Systembolaget stores.
• Smoking is prohibited in all public places.
• Fika (coffee breaks with friends in an outdoor cafe) is a way of life and the pastries are delicious.
• Swedes are orderly, expect to take a number, stand in line and wait your turn.
• Midsummer is the most important celebration of the year.
• Free Wi-Fi is everywhere.
• It is common to pay 5/10 kroner to use public toilets and expect them to be unisex.
• Swedes are reserved and quiet, they don’t small talk with strangers and love their personal space.
• Sweden is one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world, DO NOT Litter.
• Swedes recycle. Garbage is cleaned, and boxes and cartons are folded.
• Swedes love to eat fish, especially pickled herring.

Top Things to See and Do in Sweden

• Island hop the archipelago.
• Tour Drottningholm Palace, the residence of the Swedish Royal Family.
• Spend the night at Jukkasjärvi ice hotel in the Arctic Circle.
• Visit Stockholm City Hall, the site of the Nobel Prize dinner.
• Explore the medieval city of Visby or Sigtuna.
• Drive across the famous Oresund Bridge in Malmo.
• Watch the Northern Lights dance in Lapland.
• Tour the Lund Cathedral.
• Explore Skansen, the oldest open-air museum in the world.
• Spend a day relaxing on a white sand beach in Gotland.
• Visit the 15th Century Gammelstad Church Town.
• Check out Ales Stenar, Sweden’s Stonehenge.
• Hike the King’s Trail through 4 national parks: Abisko, Stora Sjöfallet, Sarek, and Pieljekaise.
• Photograph the fisherman’s huts in Smögen.

Be sure to check the Sweden Office of Tourism website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Interesting Facts About Sweden

• Sweden has one of the highest standards of living in the world.
• This was the first country to write freedom of the press into its Constitution.
• Sweden is the fifth largest country in Europe but has the lowest population per square km.
• 50% of Sweden is covered by forest and there are around 400,000 moose roaming them.
• Donald Duck is more popular than Mickey Mouse.
• Swedish root beer flavored Julmust outsells Coke.
• North Korea owes Sweden over €300 million for Volvo they bought in the 1970s, and Sweden bills them yearly.
• Sweden has the highest number of patents per capita in Europe.
• The Swedes invented vodka, Celsius, the pacemaker, ultrasound, Nicorette gum, the refrigerator, Candy Crush, Minecraft, and the computer mouse.
• The Swedish passport is the 6th best passport in the world and gives citizens access to 124 countries without a visa.
• Sweden has remained neutral in all wars since 1814, including World Wars I and II.
• Swedish school holidays are nine weeks long, and students celebrate graduation by spraying beer on each other.
• A college education is free in Sweden; health care is largely taxpayer-funded.
• It has been illegal to spank children since 1979.
• Sweden has the highest number of McDonald’s restaurants in Europe per capita.
• ABBA is the fourth-best-selling music act in history, after Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Michael Jackson.
• Sweden is the third-largest exporter of music in the world (after the United States and the UK.)
• Four out of five Swedes regularly play video games.

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Sweden Travel Blogs

55 Things to Do in Stockholm Sweden, Bucket List Experiences

72 Hours in Stockholm Sweden, Three Day Itinerary

Stockholm Travel Guide: 32 Best Things To Do & See in the Swedish Capital

The venice of the north.

Stockholm, Sweden’s capital , is super cosy!

As Alexander’s grandmother and grandfather live just south of the city, we have been lucky to visit Stockholm countless times over the years in all seasons.

“Fika”, old streets, walks along the canals and nice interior design shops… That’s just some of the things we love most about Stockholm.

You can easily spend a weekend in Stockholm – or several days – because there is so much to do and see at the many islands in the archipelago (which has given the city the nickname the Venice of the North).

In this travel guide to Stockholm, we share the best things to do and see as well as tips and recommendations for where to stay, good restaurants and cafés, how to get around and much more.

Where to stay in Stockholm?

• Budget: STF Zinkensdamm Hostel – Hostel five minutes from the beach in Södermalm.
• Value for money: Backstage Hotel Stockholm – Nice hotel close to nature on Djurgården.
• Luxury: Grand Hôtel Stockholm – Stockholm’s finest hotel.
• Search for the best value accommodation in Stockholm here .

Table of contents

Best things to do and see in Stockholm

Where to stay in stockholm, best restaurants and cafés in stockholm, how to get around stockholm, how to get to stockholm, our best tips for visiting stockholm.

Stockholm map and geography

Stockholm is spread over several different islands and islets. The central part of the city is located on 14 islands , all of which are connected by more than 50 bridges .

Stockholm’s archipelago consists of more than 20,000 islands (some say 30,000!), which spread east from the city towards the Baltic Sea.

Stockholm City Card

We’ll start this guide to Stockholm by mentioning an all-inclusive pass to the city: Stockholm City Card .

It’s a really great idea if you want to experience several museums or go on sailing trips in the archipelago.

You get access to more than 50 attractions and tours in Stockholm which you can visit freely for either 1 day, 2 days, 3 days or 5 days.

The card is valid, among other things, for:

• Going on an Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise with a guide.
• Sailing to Drottningholm.
• Visiting the Vasa Museum.
• Going up to SkyView Stockholm.

Some of Stockholm’s biggest and best highlights , in other words.

Several of the things to do and see in this travel guide to Stockholm are included in the Stockholm City Card, so we will mention it again later.

If you want to check out the prices and which museums, attractions and tours are included, you can read more about the Stockholm City Card here ( adlink ).

Tip: Remember to check the digital guide you receive after your purchase to see the updated list of included experiences and attractions, opening hours and specific booking instructions.

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Since you are reading this travel guide, you are probably wondering what to do and see in Stockholm.

Well, we have been to Sweden’s capital many times and still find new exciting shops and cafés to visit as well as parks and museums we haven’t been to before.

There are plenty of sights and attractions for both a weekend trip and a longer stay.

In our opinion, here are the best things to do and see in Stockholm:

• Gamla Stan – The old town
• Stockholm Palace – The royal residence
• Stockholm Cathedral – The royal church
• The Parliament House – The legislative assembly
• Riddarholmen and Riddarholm Church
• Stockholms Stadhus – The City Hall
• Walk along the canals
• Canal cruise – See Stockholm from the waterside
• Djurgården – The green lungs of Stockholm
• The Vasa Museum – A well-preserved 17th-century warship
• The Viking Museum – Norse mythology and an interactive exhibition
• Skansen – The world’s oldest open-air museum
• Gröna Lund – Stockholm’s amusement park
• Rosendal Garden and Rosendal Palace
• Junibacken – A fun playground for children
• Candlelight Concert – Live performances with thousands of candles
• Södermalm – Hip atmosphere and great food
• Fotografiska – Museum of Photography with a view
• Katarinavägen – View of Gamla Stan
• Skinnarviksberget – Natural view of the city
• Sofia Church and Vitabergsparken
• Östermalm – Fancy shops and beautiful architecture
• Östermalms Saluhall – Food market for aestheticians
• Norrmalm – Shopping and culture in the centre
• Hallwylska Museet – A luxurious family mansion
• Paradox Museum – Optical illusions for children
• More parks and green areas in Stockholm
• SkyView – View of Stockholm from the Globe
• Stockholm’s metro stations – An underground art gallery
• Hop-on hop-off bus tour – See the best of Stockholm
• Shopping – Everything from vintage shops to Swedish chain stores
• Drottningholm Palace – Royal castle from the 17th century

1. Gamla Stan – The old town

Stockholm’s old town Gamla Stan is a must-visit when in Stockholm.

The area is located on an island in the middle of the city ( Stadsholmen ) between Norrmalm and Södermalm and it’s lovely to stroll through when walking from one district to the other.

The streets of Gamla Stan are narrow, old and really cute .

And yes, it is a bit touristy with souvenir shops and slightly more expensive food options… But the area is still super charming!

Our favourite streets in Gamla Stan:

• Västerlånggatan with the many shops.
• The more quiet Prästgatan , which, among other things, includes The German Church.
• Köpmangatan (Stockholm’s oldest street).
• Österlånggatan , where there are several small galleries and special shops.

Also, don’t miss Stortorget with the beautiful coloured houses and The Nobel Museum as well as the narrowest alley of Stockholm: Mårten Trotzig’s Alley .

In Gamla Stan, you will find Stockholm Palace , Stockholm Cathedral and the Parliament House – all of which we will get into in more detail below.

2. The Royal Palace – The royal residence

If you are interested in history , royal families or as Victoria loves historical drama series and movies about the royals, you can’t miss The Royal Palace ( Kungliga Slottet in Swedish).

Even though it’s the royal couple’s official residence and workplace , large parts of the castle are open all year round.

The Royal Palace is built in Baroque style and we were really impressed with the pompous rooms , the art and the gold details in the old castle.

It’s like stepping into a movie! It’s also fun to experience if you have watched the Netflix series Young Royals .

In addition to the castle itself, the entrance ticket also gives access to the Royal Treasury ( Skattkammaren ) with incredible royal crowns and weapons as well as the Museum Three Crowns ( Tre Kronor ), where you can learn more about the development of the old Tre Kronor Palace from a defence fort to a Renaissance palace.

See opening times, prices and different types of tickets on their website .

3. Stockholm Cathedral – The royal church

Right next to Stockholm Palace (described above), you’ll find Stockholm Cathedral ( Storkyrkan in Swedish).

The cathedral, which is also called Sankt Nikolai Kyrka , is the oldest church in Stockholm.

Inside the church, there is, among other things, a famous statue of Saint George and the Dragon, a beautiful organ and an impressive altar.

It’s worth checking out if you are in Gamla Stan.

By the way, this is the church in which Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria married Daniel .

The church can obviously be seen from the outside for free, but (unfortunately) going inside costs a little bit .

You can buy a ticket at the entrance.

Tip: The entrance fee to the church is included if you have the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

4. The Parliament House – The legislative assembly

The Parliament House is called Riksdagshuset, and it is the seat of the Parliament of Sweden .

The building is located on a small island, Helgeandsholmen , just north of Gamla Stan, and it’s open to the public ( read about visiting the Riksdag here ).

It’s an impressive building and it’s worth passing by to admire even if you don’t intend to go inside.

5. Riddarholmen and Riddarholm Church

Riddarholmen is located on a small islet west of Gamla Stan.

On the cute little streets , you will find the town court, Birger Jarl’s tower, the Gamla Riksarkivet and lots of beautiful views of the water.

Riddarholmen Church is a beautiful burial and memorial church where former Swedish regents are buried.

The church is open to visitors during the summer season and also arranges several concerts throughout the year.

6. Stockholms Stadhus – The City Hall

The city hall , Stockholms Stadhus, was built between 1911 and 1923 and it was designed by the Swedish architect Ragnar Östberg in a national romantic style.

There are tours of the city hall almost daily ( read more about times and prices here ).

The city hall is located next to the water at the tip of Kungsholmen , where you can get a great view of Riddarholmen and the western part of Södermalm from the City Hall vantage point ( Stadshuset utsiktspunkt ).

In addition to being the seat of Stockholm’s municipality, it’s also where the Nobel Prize is awarded every year in December in the magnificent halls.

7. Walk along the canals

One of the most characteristic features of Sweden’s capital is the many canals and waterways that wind through the city.

In fact, there is so much water that Stockholm is sometimes called the Venice of the North .

Taking the time to walk along the canals is definitely recommended!

Enjoy the views over the water from the many bridges and roads along the waterfront, for example from Strandvägen , which runs from Norrmalm to Djurgården, North Mälarstrand a little west of the city hall, or Söder Mälarstrand just on the other side on the western part of Södermalm.

8. Canal cruise – See Stockholm from the waterside

You can also choose to see Stockholm from the water by going on a canal cruise.

Several companies offer boat trips in the canals where you get a unique perspective on the city and pass several of the best sights in Stockholm.

There are also several different types of boat trips included among the experiences you can get with a Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

Going on a canal cruise in Stockholm is definitely a wonderful way to see the city.

9. Djurgården – The green lungs of Stockholm

The island of Djurgården is a beautiful oasis in the middle of Stockholm which is especially nice to visit in the summer because of the large green areas.

Rosendals Trädgård (the Rosendal Garden) with Rosendals Slott (the Rosendal Palace), Ekoparken, Djurgårdens Bokskog and Frisens Park take up a large part of the island.

The historic open-air museum Skansen is worth a visit on a day with good weather, too.

Near the water, you will find the amusement park Gröna Lund , ABBA The Museum and other popular museums such as the Vasa Museum , The Viking Museum , The Nordic Museum and the children’s park Junibacken .

Below we go into more detail about several of the experiences and sights on Djurgården.

10. The Vasa Museum – A well-preserved 17th-century warship

The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most famous museums and iconic landmarks .

The Vasa Ship sank in 1628 shortly after it sailed from the port of Stockholm on its maiden voyage.

Around 300 years later, the ship was raised from the bottom of the sea and restored. Now it can be experienced up close.

Alexander naturally visited the Vasa Museum as a child with his Swedish family – because it’s truly an exciting museum for children where you, among other things, can play between the cannons and imagine being inside the ship.

On our most recent trip to Stockholm, we both visited the museum and it was impressive to see the gigantic ship from six different floors . That way we could soak in all the details and see the ship from all angles.

There are several small exhibits, including a screening of a 17-minute documentary about the ship’s history.

The Vasa Museum is included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ) which gives access to more than 50 experiences and sights in Stockholm.

You can also buy your ticket online ( adlink ) or at the museum entrance.

Children up to 18 years old can enter The Vasa Museum for free.

11. The Viking Museum – Norse mythology and an interactive exhibition

We have to admit that we didn’t have high expectations for the Viking Museum. But we were positively surprised and really enjoyed our visit.

Here, you can learn about Norse mythology , Scandinavian history and of course the Viking way of life .

If you have seen Viking-themed TV series like Vikings, The Last Kingdom or Norsemen, it’s fun to see some of the more in-depth descriptions of the characters you know from the screen.

The museum is right next to the Vasa Museum on Djurgården, so it’s easy to combine a visit to both – and that’s exactly what we did.

Something that made the Viking Museum special was a small “ride” called Ragnfrid’s Saga , where you sit in a carriage (like in an amusement park) that takes you on a journey back to the Viking Age and tells the story of the fate of a Viking family.

In the course of 11 minutes, the carriage takes you through different rooms with figures, exhibitions, videos as well as light and sound installations. It was really well made!

You can choose to hear the story in English, Swedish and several other languages.

Visiting The Viking Museum, like the Vasa Museum, is also included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ).

Alternatively, you can buy tickets online ( adlink ) or at the entrance.

12. Skansen – The world’s oldest open-air museum

It has been quite a few years since we visited Skansen but we still include it in this travel guide to Stockholm as it’s a really cosy place.

At the world’s oldest open-air museum, you can travel back in time and learn about how the Swedes lived in the 16th century and up to the first half of the 20th century.

There are 150 historic houses and farms from all over Sweden.

During the summer season, there are singing, dancing and concerts at the outdoor museum while the winter season includes a Christmas market and Christmas concerts.

We have to admit that we are a bit conflicted about the fact that Skansen also has enclosures with wild Nordic animals, an aquarium and a children’s zoo with farm animals. As vegans and animal lovers, we don’t think animals should be kept in captivity like that.

13. Gröna Lund – Stockholm’s amusement park

Gröna Lund is Sweden’s oldest amusement park and it’s beautifully located next to the water on Djurgården.

If you are travelling with children , this is a fun place to spend the day.

There are around 30 rides , lots of stalls with games and lotteries as well as several restaurants and snack stands.

In addition, there is also entertainment for children, concerts and dance evenings.

Read more about Gröna Lund’s opening hours, prices and events on their website .

14. Rosendal Garden and Rosendal Palace

Go for a walk, relax in the sun or enjoy the many flowers and plants in the large green garden in the middle of Djurgården.

In Rosendals Trädgård (the Rosendal Garden), you’ll find biodynamic fruits, vegetables and flowers (which you can buy and take home with you).

There is a cute greenhouse café with lunch dishes, coffee and cake, too.

Apart from that, the garden also has a cool labyrinth and the beautiful Rosendal Palace from the 19th century ( read more about opening hours and prices here ).

15. Junibacken – A fun playground for children

We have not visited Junibacken ourselves, but if you are in Stockholm with young children , you should definitely check it out.

The children’s museum is a cultural centre for children (and childlike souls) , and it has a theatre, interactive exhibitions, places to play, a large bookstore with children’s books and many references to Astrid Lindgren’s world.

Among other things, you can “lift up” Pippi’s horse and ride a story train that takes you through several of the well-known Astrid Lindgren stories.

It’s recommended to buy tickets in advance – they can be purchased online here ( adlink ) or at the museum entrance where they cost a little more.

16. Candlelight Concert – Live performances with thousands of candles

Stockholm is already one of Europe’s most romantic cities. Now you can experience a special night with Candlelight Concerts; musical events by Fever that put on unique shows with classical music, tributes to contemporaries (like Sweden’s very own ABBA) as well as other genres like ballets and even anime.

What they all have in common, though, is the intimate settings and the thousands of candles . It sounds and looks so beautiful!

Read more about what’s on and book your Candlelight tickets here .

17. Södermalm – Hip atmosphere and great food

Södermalm, often called Söder , is a large area in Stockholm south of Gamla Stan with lots of green parks, cosy cafés and restaurants, thrift shops, interior design and clothing stores.

The hippest part of Söder is the SoFo district (South of Folkungagatan), where you’ll find many creative and innovative fashion stores, designer shops, small galleries and trendy eateries.

Further down, we’ll mention some of the best things to do and see in Södermalm.

18. Fotografiska – Museum of Photography with a view

With a beautiful view over the water and Stockholm’s small islands, the museum Fotografiska is located in an old customs station building in the northernmost part of Södermalm.

The modern photography museum is often recommended as one of the best things to experience in Stockholm – and for a good reason!

When we stopped by, there were three exhibitions at the museum and we were particularly fond of the News Flash exhibition which displayed unique news photographs from different decades.

The museum shop is also quite cool with many books, posters and Swedish design objects.

Furthermore, the museum is open from 10 am to 11 pm every day which can be convenient if you have more energy in the evening when all the other museums and shops are closed.

You can see the current exhibitions on Fotografiska’s website .

And if you have already considered buying a Stockholm City Card ( adlink ), you will be pleased to hear that Fotografiska is also included in the pass.

Alternatively, you can buy tickets online ( adlink ) or at the entrance, where they (according to the museum) typically are more expensive.

Children up to the age of 13 enter for free.

19. Katarinavägen – View of Gamla Stan

Katarinavägen is technically not a thing to see in Stockholm but nevertheless, we think it should be mentioned in this travel guide.

The road starts at Slussen and if you continue further up, you’ll get a nice view of Gamla Stan and the rest of Stockholm.

When we visited in February 2023, a fence had been put up in connection with some road work, so the view wasn’t the best. Luckily, you could still see – and take pictures – through the fence.

20. Skinnarviksberget – Natural view of the city

Another scenic view of Stockholm can be seen from the top of Skinnarviksberget.

In the northwestern part of Södermalm, you can go up to a small cliff , from where you can see the town hall Stockholms Stadshus, among other things.

It’s free and we can imagine it’s a lovely area in the summer or around sunset.

21. Sofia Church and Vitabergsparken

If you are in the eastern part of Södermalm – east of SoFo – it might be worth checking out Sofia Kyrka (Sofia Church) and Vitabergsparken.

The church is quite special from the outside (nothing too special from the inside though) and we can imagine that the park is beautiful in the summer.

22. Östermalm – Fancy shops and beautiful architecture

North of Djurgården and east of Norrmalm, one of the finest areas in the city with some of the highest property prices is located: Östermalm .

Here you’ll find designer shops, fancy bars, classy restaurants, green parks, Stureplan Torv , theatres and museums (for example Dramaten and Historiska Museet ).

It is a lovely area to walk around with beautiful architecture.

23. Östermalms Saluhall – Food market for aestheticians

One of the popular experiences for both locals and tourists in Östermalm is to stop by the beautiful market hall Östermalm’s Saluhall.

The market is from the end of the 19th century and you can buy fresh ingredients , get a bite to eat or have a drink from one of the many stalls.

And even if you don’t want to buy anything, you can just take a look inside, because it’s simply a stunning building .

24. Norrmalm – Shopping and culture in the centre

Norrmalm – the large area in the middle of Stockholm – brims with (Swedish) fashion and design shops along the shopping street Drottninggatan as well as on the smaller streets near it and in the shopping centre called Gallerian.

In addition, you will find lots of restaurants and cafés in different price ranges.

Norrmalm is also where you’ll find Stockholm Central Station , The Royal Swedish Opera , Stockholm Concert Hall , St. Clara Church and Sergels Torg with the Cultural centre Stadsteatern and the park Kungsträdgården .

25. Hallwylska Museet – A luxurious family mansion

As we have already mentioned earlier in the guide, Victoria has a thing for historical dramas and luxurious residences .

Although Hallwylska Musee is not a royal residence, the family that lived there was extremely well off – and you can see their beautiful rooms and all the fine things they have collected at the museum today.

It is free to visit the museum on Wednesdays (when it’s also open for longer).

See prices and opening hours on their website here .

26. Paradox Museum – Optical illusions for children

If you are in Stockholm with children, they will love to experience the Paradox Museum.

The museum is full of interactive experiences and optical illusions where you can take cool pictures.

Buy tickets online here ( adlink ).

27. More parks and green areas in Stockholm

We have already mentioned several parks in Stockholm city but if you want to check out even more parks for a relaxing time or a picnic in the summer , these are great options:

• Observatorielunden
• Humlegården
• Tantolunden
• Drakenbergsparken

Rålambshovsparken , Hagaparken , Skogskyrkogården (the Forest Cemetery) and Nackareservatet are a bit further away from the city but they also look lovely.

28. SkyView – View of Stockholm from the Globe

The world’s largest spherical building , the Stockholm Globe Arena (which is now called the Avicii Arena ), is just south of the central part of Stockholm.

Large music, sports and cultural events are held here, and along the outside of the round building, you can get a ride in a glass gondola and get a “sky view” over Stockholm.

If you already have a Stockholm City Card (adlink) , a ride in SkyView is included. Remember to check whether you need to book a visiting time in advance.

Alternatively, you can buy tickets here (adlink) .

29. Stockholm’s metro stations – An underground art gallery

The metro stations in Stockholm deserve their own spot in this travel guide because many of them are worth a visit just for their special designs.

The metro system has been called “the world’s longest art gallery” and there are more than 90 subway stations decorated with paintings, rock formations, sculptures, mosaics, installations and more.

And it’s almost like walking into an art exhibition as so much work has gone into making them unique and exciting .

The metro system is also called tunnelbanan or t-banan.

Some of the most beautiful metro stations in Stockholm:

• T-Centralen – especially the blue line with blue plants on a white background.
• Stadion Station is built into the mountain and has, among other things, a beautiful rainbow painted on the wall.
• Solna Central Station is red and green with cool nature details.
• Kungsträdgården Station is green with references to the old French garden that once lay above ground.
• Tensta Station illustrates acceptance, equality and love with pretty paintings.
• Rådhuset Station has the bedrock is exposed and unsculptured which resembles a large cave.
• Tekniska Högskolan has a technology theme with quotes from the history of science mixed with paintings and sculptures that refer to the four elements and the laws of nature.

You can see more cool metro stations on Instagram if you search for #stockholmmetro or #metrostockholm .

30. Hop-on hop-off bus tour – See the best of Stockholm

The classic hop-on hop-off buses also exist in Stockholm and you should consider going on a tour if you don’t have much time in the Swedish capital, or if you prefer to walk less .

The buses drive directly to many of the best attractions in Stockholm (including top sights like Stockholm Palace, the Vasa Museum, Gamla Stan, Gröna Lund and the City Hall).

You can easily jump on and off as you like in either 24 hours or 72 hours or you can stay on the bus and see most of town from the comfort of your seat.

See prices and read more about which sights the buses stop at here (adlink) .

31. Shopping – Everything from vintage shops to Swedish chain stores

Stockholm has it all when it comes to shopping.

The city is full of thrift stores, flea markets, design shops, antique shops and, of course, interior design in all price ranges (including the world’s largest IKEA).

In many places, you will find Swedish chain stores such as H&M, Weekday, COS, & Other Stories, Arket, Tiger of Sweden, Acne, Fjällräven, Filippa K, Lindex and the like.

Stockholm’s largest shopping street Drottninggatan (in Norrmalm) is a long pedestrian street with all kinds of shops, restaurants, bars and cafés.

Biblioteksgatan on the border between Norrmalm and Östermalm is a good place to go for more exclusive shops such as Mulberry, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and the like. The most expensive shops are located on the nearby Birger Jarlsgatan .

Some of the best vintage and thrift shops are Beyond Retro, Arkivet, Judit’s Second Hand, Humana Second Hand, Emmaus, Modern Retro Vintage and Myrorna – and Södermalm in general is probably your best bet if you’re looking for those kinds of shops.

For large shopping centres , you can check out NK (Nordiska Kompaniet), Gallerian, Åhlens City, Mood Stockholm and Sturegallerian.

The flea market Hornstull’s Market can be visited every Saturday and Sunday afternoon from the beginning of April to the end of September along the southwestern part of Södermalm. Second-hand clothes, books, art, antiques, delicacies and street food are sold here and live music is often played.

There is also a daily fruit and vegetable market on Hötorget – and at the weekend there are various other stalls, too.

32. Drottningholm Palace – Royal castle from the 17th century

Unfortunately, we have never been to Dronningholm Palace and it was closed on weekdays during our last trip to Stockholm – but next time we must go there!

The large well-preserved royal palace from the 17th century is on the UNESCO World Heritage List and surrounding it, there’s a beautiful palace garden in baroque style, a fountain, an English landscape park with canals and bridges, a Chinese pavilion and a theatre.

The Swedish king and queen live in the palace’s south wing , so that part is closed but the rest of the palace is open to the public. And it looks pompous.

A boat trip to Drottningholm is included in the Stockholm City Card ( adlink ) from May to September and as far as we can see, it takes about 50 minutes to sail to the island of Lovön, where it is located.

See opening times, entrance prices and get more information on the palace’s website .

We can imagine that it’s a fantastic experience if you have plenty of time in Stockholm or already have seen many of the sights in the city.

Map of the best things to do and see in Stockholm

Find all the best sights and attractions in Stockholm on the map below.

Although it’s easy to get around Stockholm, it will be convenient for most people to live relatively centrally in the city.

The most central areas are Gamla Stan (Old Town), Norrmalm and Östermalm . Here, you will find many of the best hotels in Stockholm as you will be in the middle of the action and close to all the most famous sights and attractions.

Södermalm and Vasastan are great if you want to be a little further away from the inner city and live more like a local. We think most of the city’s best eateries can be found here – and it’s still easy to get into the city.

On Djurgården , you will be very close to the centre and especially Östermalm but at the same time, you will stay in a very quiet and green area. It’s also a really nice option.

Find great hotels in the different areas below or scroll further down to see the best hotels in Stockholm divided by price range.

Search for the best and cheapest hotels in each area here:

Södermalm .

• Östermalm .
• Djurgården .

Here are our favourite hotels in Stockholm divided by price range:

Luxury hotels in Stockholm

• Grand Hôtel Stockholm – The finest hotel in Stockholm. Norrmalm .
• Bank Hotel – Gorgeous and lavish. Norrmalm .
• At Six – Hotel with a subdued, exclusive colour palette. Norrmalm .
• Hôtel Reisen – Gamla Stan’s most luxurious hotel. Gamla Stan .
• NOFO Hotel – Close to several of Stockholm’s best eateries. Södermalm .
• Hotel Diplomat – Sophisticated 5-star hotel. Östermalm .
• Ett hem – Luxurious, exclusive atmosphere with only 12 rooms. Vasastan .

Value for money hotels in Stockholm

• Hotel With Urban Deli – Close to everything and with a roof terrace. Norrmalm .
• Victory Hotel – Hotel with a sailor theme. Gamla Stan .
• Nobis Hotel Stockholm – Sleep well in Östermalm. Östermalm .
• Backstage Hotel Stockholm – Djurgården’s best hotel. Djurgården .
• Hotel Hasselbacken – Perfect place to relax after a day in Stockholm. Djurgården .
• Best Western Plus Time Hotel – Cosy “standard” hotel. Vasastan .

Budget hotels in Stockholm

• City BackPackers Hostel – Shared dormitories and shared bathrooms for budget travellers. Norrmalm .
• Generator Stockholm – Centrally located with dormitories. Norrmalm .
• Castle House Inn – A good and cheap option for some very central accommodation in Stockholm. Gamla Stan .
• STF Zinkensdamm Hostel – Hostel in Hornstull. Södermalm .
• Hostel Dalagatan – Great prices at a slightly secluded location. Vasastan .

Since we eat plant-based, we have visited cafés and restaurants in Stockholm with great vegan options and these are the ones we have included in this guide.

But don’t be alarmed if you normally don’t eat plant-based foods. We have included the places because the quality is amazing and the food has plenty of taste – for all types of eaters!

We had breakfast at the cute little plant-based cafe À La Lo and were really impressed with their “frozen banana yoghurt” which was a smoothie bowl with lots of fresh fruit and granola.

Their Croque Mon Dieu with “cheese”, smoked tofu, tomatoes and (perhaps a little too much) mustard was perfectly crispy and delicious.

The coffee comes from The Belleville Brûlerie roastery in Paris and they bake their own cakes.

If you want to come by at the weekend, make sure to come early or reserve a table in advance.

Vegan Mahalo has two cafés in Stockholm – one in Vasastan on Odengatan (close to À La Lo) and one on Hornsgatan in Södermalm .

We tried the latter and it was nicely decorated and had plenty of seating.

They had a good selection of breakfast options but we love smoothie bowls and of course, we had to try one of their three options. We ordered a pretty pink “pitaya” (dragon fruit) smoothie bowl with delicious toppings and a sinful stack of pancakes with whipped cream, fresh berries and syrup.

Their quinoa croissants tasted a bit too healthy for our liking but plus points for having vegan croissants at all!

Victoria enjoyed a Golden Latte which was creamy with a good, not too-strong spice mix (turmeric, ginger, pepper and cinnamon).

Vasastan and Södermalm .

Piccola Nonna Pizza

When we passed by Piccola Nonna Pizza, two nice ladies were behind the counter making pizzas to go and to stay in the cosy, small shop with Italian pictures and artefacts on the walls.

The place is known for making great Neapolitan pizzas (with a thick, soft edge and bottom), and it’s our favourite kind of pizza.

We tried a Potato pizza with pesto and one with nduja – both were really good!

Falafelbaren

Fresh falafels are the best and at Falafelbaren, they serve them in pita bread with homemade red cabbage, pickles, tomatoes, cucumber and tahini sauce – just as it should be.

Drop Coffee

The specialty coffee shop Drop Coffee serves some of the best coffee in Stockholm .

Here we filmed a few shots for our coffee documentary Shade Grown Coffee .

Delivore and Goodstore

Not far from Piccola Nonna Pizza, there’s a café called Delivore .

It doesn’t look like much from the outside but we had the best Snickers cake with chocolate, caramel and peanuts.

We already had lunch and weren’t that hungry, but we simply had to try it and we’re so glad we did. Yum!

In the same store, behind Delivore, there is a hidden 100% plant-based supermarket : Goodstore .

You have to know it’s there because it’s not really something that’s advertised to the street – but if you’re vegan, vegetarian or just curious about alternatives, you should definitely stop by.

We came home with “salmon”, “shrimp”, “sausages” and various snacks that we had never seen in Denmark before.

Fern & Fika

The atmosphere was lovely at Fern & Fika, which is located all the way west in Södermalm close to Hornstull Station.

We got a black coffee from Gringo Nordic and a chai latte as well as a raw raspberry chocolate cake which was amazing – and there were many other delicious dessert options in the display case.

Kafé Plattan

In the big Kulturhuset at Sergels Torg and T-Centralen metro station in the middle of Norrmalm, you will find the 100% plant-based Kafé Plattan on the bottom floor.

While Kulturhuset (the House of Culture) has a shopping mall vibe, Kafé Plattan has actually made their corner really nice.

In the display case, they have several dishes ready to be heated and eaten in the café or taken away. At lunchtime, there is an even bigger menu.

We tried a sandwich with pesto and a hoisin “duck” wrap .

And then Victoria couldn’t help herself, so she had to try a vegan semla (a traditional Swedish sweet roll) with almond filling and whipped cream – it was tasty!

Normally we wouldn’t recommend dining in the middle of a touristic area as the prices are often higher and the quality lower…

And while the prices are perhaps a bit higher at Verte, which is located in Gamla Stan , the quality of the food followed!

Their plant burger was absolutely perfect and for a few extra Swedish kronor, we could replace the regular fries with sweet potato fries which we loooove.

We also had a bowl with “chicken” in BBQ sauce , black rice, avocado, mango, bean sprouts, chickpeas, sriracha mayo and more. Super delicious!

Gamla Stan .

It’s amazing walking around in Stockholm – it’s safe , clean and there are a lot of interesting things to see on the way.

The pavements are wide and pedestrians can walk everywhere in the city.

If you want to experience many of the sights we have included in this travel guide to Stockholm, you must prepare to walk several thousand steps a day .

You can for example use public transport for the longest distances and then walk around the different areas between all of the museums, parks and iconic buildings.

Public transport

Stockholm has a very good public transport system with several bus lines, metro (also called tunnelbana or t-bana), trams and boats.

If you take the metro , you can get an art experience too, as most of Stockholm’s subways are beautifully decorated. Check out number 28 of the best things to do and see in Stockholm further up in the guide to see which stations are extraordinarily cool.

A one-way ticket is valid for 75 minutes and can be purchased in SL’s ticket machines, in the SL app or directly on the bus and subway using a contactless credit card, Apple Pay or similar.

The price per trip for an adult was 39 Swedish kronor in 2023.

Of course, you can drive around Stockholm (as locals obviously do to some extent) but for tourists, we wouldn’t recommend it.

Parking in Stockholm can quickly become a nightmare and it’s expensive . It’s not unusual with prices from 90 to 120 Swedish kronor per hour or a 24-hour ticket for 400 Swedish kronor.

There are of course several hotels that offer parking if you travel with a car.

The bike lanes in Stockholm are good (and there are many) so it is definitely an option to bike around the city .

In the summer, we imagine it’s a nice way to get around in the sunny weather.

There are several bicycle rental companies with both regular bikes and electric bikes.

Read more about the various options for renting bicycles here .

Drive to Stockholm

Although it is not great to experience Stockholm with your own car, it is certainly possible to drive to Stockholm from other locations in Sweden or its neighbouring countries.

The trip from Copenhagen in Denmark is 650 kilometres, which takes ~8 hours to cover. From Oslo in Norway , you’ll be driving for about 6.5 hours with a length of 520 kilometres.

From Gothenburg, there are 460 kilometres to Stockholm and a journey time of just over 5 hours, while the trip from Helsingborg is 550 kilometres, which according to Google Maps takes about 6 hours.

We would recommend that you either park your car at your hotel car park/parking garage , or alternatively find a free parking lot outside the city and take public transport back in.

With a little research, we have found free parking in the suburbs of Liljeholmen and Solna , but check for yourself what applies at the time you visit the city and whether the free parking is valid for only 24 hours or for several days.

Train to Stockholm from Denmark or Norway

The best way to get to Stockholm from Denmark or Norway is in our opinion by train.

Stockholm Central Station is located in the heart of the city, and it’s easy to get everywhere from here by public transport.

The journey from Copenhagen Central Station to Stockholm Central Station only takes a little more than 5 hours if you hop on an SJ express train (fast train).

From Oslo Central Station , the train ride takes about 5.5 hours.

It is also possible to travel to Stockholm with Snälltåget (a different train company) from Malmö , which takes approx. 6 hours, or from Helsingborg , where it takes 5-6 hours.

Find train tickets and see prices on SJ’s website .

Fly to Stockholm

There are many flights from Europe and the rest of the world flying into Stockholm every day.

The main airport is called Arlanda and it’s located 45 kilometres north of the city.

If you take the (slightly expensive) train Arlanda Express , you can reach Stockholm from Arlanda in just 20 minutes.

If you want to make it a little cheaper, you can take a bus from Arlanda to the train station Märsta and then take the train to Stockholm from there. That takes ~45 minutes in total.

There is also a less-used airport in Bromma, which is somewhat closer to the city.

You can use our adlink below to find the cheapest tickets:

Find the cheapest tickets to Stockholm on Momondo .

• Remember a good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
• Drink tap water . The water quality in Sweden is excellent. You can easily drink water from the tap.
• Walk around . Walking from one place to another is often the best and most pleasant way to get around Stockholm.
• Take the subway . You can also take the metro and enjoy the art installations on the stations.
• Consider buying a Stockholm City Card (adlink) where you get access to more than 50 sights and attractions in Stockholm. In summer, there is also free transport with selected hop-on hop-off buses and boats.
• Explore the parks . The parks in Stockholm are great places to relax and breathe some fresh air.
• Don’t forget fika . Having a cup of coffee and something sweet is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon.
• Credit cards can be used virtually anywhere, so you don’t need to carry cash. In fact, not every shop accepts cash.
• Travel insurance (adlink) is important. Never travel without it.

Thanks for reading along

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Stockholm. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think of Sweden’s capital? Are any of the things to do in Stockholm on your list yet?

If you’ve already been there, it would be great to hear your best tips and tricks.

Don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments below if you haven’t been to Stockholm yet. We are happy to help.

Pin for later:

Our favourite travel resources:

• Booking.com for cheap hotels.
• Momondo for the best flight deals.
• SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

• Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
• DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
• Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
• See all of our camera gear here .

Related articles:

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• Day Trip to Malmö From Copenhagen: How to Get There & What to Do - Discover the charm of Sweden’s 3rd largest city just 40 minutes by train from Copenhagen
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• City break in Lund, Sweden: 6 Amazing Things to Do - A day in the charming university city in Scania
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