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10 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

By Carl Austin · Last updated on March 7, 2024

Sweden is famous around the world for lots of things: Saab and Volvo automobiles, the music group ABBA, pickled herring and the DIY megastore IKEA. It is equally as famous for its stunning scenery, picturesque fishing villages, being the land of reindeer and endless summer sun.

Sweden is filled with colorful wooden buildings, traditional huts, stone fortresses and cathedrals, and some pretty innovative contemporary architecture. Whether it’s hiking trails or art museums you’re looking for, Sweden has it. An overview of the best places to visit in Sweden:

10. Kosterhavet National Park

Sweden has lots of coastline, no doubt about that, but the best place to observe marine line under protected circumstances is Kosterhavet National Park. Kosterhavet, which borders Norway, is the country’s first marine national park. With 6,000 species of marine life, the park is home to several species that can’t be found anywhere else in Sweden.

The park is centered around the shores and sea of the Koster Islands. Kosterhavet’s coral reefs make it popular with snorkelers and divers, while landlubbers can enjoy quaint fishing villages waiting to be turned into picture postcards.

9. Marstrand

Marstrand, a city since 1200, is known for two things: sailing and an old fortress. This seaside community, located on an island in western Sweden, hosts the annual Match Cup Sweden, an important sailing competition. It also is home to the 17th century Carlsten Fortress, a majestic stone structure that guards the city.

Visitors describe Marstrand, which makes a good day trip from Gothenburg, as a “Kodak moment” so be prepared to take lots of pictures of the ornate, pastel-colored historic buildings that line cobblestone streets. Other “don’t miss” attractions include the Strandverket Art Museum, the restored Pater Noster Lighthouse, and scenic hiking trails.

Something old, something new is perhaps the best way to describe Malmo , a medieval historic city with a landscape that’s studded with modern, contemporary buildings. Sweden’s third largest city has a marvelous Old Town (Gamla Stoden) with three main squares: Stortoget, Lilla Torg and Gustav Adolfs Torg. Old Town is also where you’ll find the castle Malmohus Slott.

This multicultural city, with 150 ethnicities, is linked via Oresund Bridge to Denmark. A must-see “new” attraction is the Turning Torso, an architectural masterpiece that twists more than 190 meters (600 feet) into the sky, making it Sweden’s most talked about building.

Ystad, a coastal town in southern Sweden, is sure to draw sleuths and murder mystery fans. Noted author Henning Mankell set his Kurt Wallender detective novels in Ystad and the surrounding area. Notable buildings you’ll find used in his books include Greyfriars Abbey, one of Sweden’s best preserved medieval monasteries, and the Church of the Virgin Mary, a large medieval church; both are outstanding examples of Gothic Hansa architecture.

A walking tour over cobblestone streets also will take you past picturesque pastel-colored half-timbered buildings. A walk on the town’s pretty sandy beaches is called for, too. East of Ystad is the megalithic monument of Ales Stenar, consisting of 59 large boulders forming a stone ship.

6. Stockholm archipelago

If you’re into island hopping, then touring the Stockholm archipelago could be just your cup of akavit. Obviously, you won’t have time to visit every island since there are 30,000 of them – big rocks jutting up from the sea count here. Ferries serve major points in the archipelago, beginning with a 10-minute boat ride from Stockholm.

Visit a World War I fortress at Starofortet or Vaxholm, the “capital” of the archipelago with its ornate buildings and a history of herring fishing. Indulge yourself at a spa in Nacka, the closest to Stockholm and accessible by motor vehicle.

Uppsala, located 70 km (44 miles) north of Stockholm , is the religious center of Sweden, and has been since the 12th century. Prior to Christianity, Uppsala was known for idols of Norse gods. The Uppsala Cathedral, seat of the archbishop of Sweden, is the largest cathedral in Scandinavia. Education is important here, too, with Uppsala University, which was founded in 1477, making it one of the oldest colleges in Scandinavia.

The Fyris River runs through the city, with the medieval section located west of the river. Both the cathedral and Uppsala Castle dominate the skyline here. Eighteenth century botanist Carl Linnaeus lived in Uppsala, so check out the botanical garden next to the castle.

4. Swedish Lapland

If it’s wilderness adventure you’re seeking, there’s no better place to visit in Sweden than Swedish Lapland. Located in the far north above the Arctic Circle where summer shines around the clock. Lapland is for canoers, hikers and viewers of wildlife. Swedish Lapland is inhabited by the hardy, indigenous Sami. Who live in massive forests and barren tundra.

A good way to experience the region is to drive the 359-km (223-mile) long Wilderness Way from the canoeing center at Stromsund to the terminus at Vilhelmina, a church town, via Fatmomakke, where you’ll see traditional wooden huts. Winter visitors can buy reindeer hides at Jokkmokk, the center of Sami life.

3. Gothenburg

Gothenburg, located on Sweden’s west coast, is a green city dotted with numerous parks of all sizes. Many of the parks date back to the 19th century, including Kungsparken, a park that circles the canal that rings around the city center. If you’re more interested in amusement parks, head to Liseberg, which has more rides than any amusement park in Scandinavia.

The largest port city in Scandinavia, Gothenburg also boasts the region’s largest film festival as well as numerous music festivals throughout the year. Hungry? Try a haga bulle, a large cinnamon roll at Haga, a district known for its picturesque wooden houses.

As Sweden’s largest island, surrounded totally by the Baltic Sea, you’d think fishing would be the island’s main industry. Not so. Agriculture, tourism and information technology are among the top industries. The island is one of Sweden’s most popular tourist destinations; sun seekers like it because it has more sunlight during the year than any other place in Sweden.

Visby, the only city on the island, is a beautiful walled Hanseatic town which has preserved most of its townscape and historic buildings. There are also around 100 medieval churches and countless prehistoric sites on the island.

1. Stockholm

Stockholm, a pretty city set on 14 islands, has a lot going for it as Sweden’s capital and the largest city in Scandinavia. Founded in the 13th century, Stockholm is where the annual Nobel Prizes are given out. Lush green parks, world-class attractions and a blend of historic and modern architecture make Stockholm an appealing tourist destination.

Among Stockholm’s must-see attractions is the city’s well-preserved medieval center with its beautiful old churches, Royal palace, picturesque bridges, canals and cobblestone streets lined with cafes and shops. The lush green island of Djurgården is home to some of Stockholm’s most popular tourist attractions such as the Gröna Lund theme park, the Stockholm Zoo and the Skansen Open-Air Museum. A must-do is to view the city from atop the world’s largest round building, the Ericcson Globe.

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

The Vasa Museum, dedicated to a 17th century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, is Scandinavia’s most visited museum. Stockholm is easier on your budget than other Nordic cities, offering free admission to 15 museums, including the Swedish History, Medieval Museum, Royal Armoury and Skokloster Castle. You also won’t want to miss the Royal Palace, Modern Art Museum and City Hall.

Map of Places to Visit in Sweden

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Reader interactions.

February 16, 2020 at 4:27 am

Sweden is a beautiful country, i have been to Gotenborg, Karlstad, Jonkoping, Malmo, Helsinborg, and Stockholms. I wish i be there once again. I have not yet explored it fully. The finest people i have ever seen, the flocks of horses, elk and deers, are all worth seeing a dozen times.

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

Sweden may well be the land that gave the world IKEA and iconic meatballs, but sadly it is often neglected on the traveler trail around Europe, and many visitors choose not to visit this corner of Northern Europe, eschewing it in favor of locations further south.

If you do choose to venture to the north however, you will find sun dappled leafy towns by the water’s edge, fun filled modern cities, and winter wonderlands with a few reindeer thrown in if you make it all the way to Swedish Lapland. Whatever you choose however, know that you are in one of the cleanest, most efficient, and some would say friendliest countries in the world.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Sweden :

1. Stockholm

Stockholm is widely said to be one of the most picturesque and user friendly cities in Europe, and has an abundance of clean air that blows in off the Baltic Sea, as well as wide open spaces, woodlands, and parks.

There is also a strong dedication to history in Stockholm that can be felt when you venture to the old town centre of Gamla Stan where you will find historic buildings as well as dainty cobbled streets that wind around the island and give visitors the chance to explore on foot.

For some maritime history, head down to the harbor to see the Vasa, a warship that dates from the 17th century and escaped a watery end after being preserved and restored. Make the most of Sweden’s open green spaces with a trip to the central park of Kungsträdgården where locals go to relax and enjoy the splendid scenery.

Perhaps best known for the books and films based in the area that chart the story of fictional detective Kurt Wallander, and written by Swedish author Henning Mankell, Ystad doesn’t disappoint in real life for those who have only experienced it on paper.

The city now offers tours for fans of the books who can visit areas mentioned in the famous tomes, or you can choose to explore on your own, and take in the amazing architecture of the region firsthand.

Many of the buildings here are made from wood giving Ystad an old world feel, and there are quaint cafes, eateries, and boutiques to uncover as you wander around this picturesque town.

3. Marstrand

The city of Marstrand on the west coast is probably about as glitzy as it gets in Sweden, and is known as something of a French Riviera style setting where, historically, royalty and films stars have come to get away from it all.

The area is also very popular as a sailing destination so if you want to get out on the glassy Baltic water then this is the place to visit. One of the best ways to take in the city is to climb to the top of Carlsten Fortress from which you can stare out across the water and take in the natural wonders that Sweden has in spades.

Marstrand is also famous for its spas which are legendary in Sweden, so pamper yourself with some Swedish massage if you want to get the full opulent experience that draws the rich and famous to this city.

4. Vadstena

From its home beside a lake, Vadstena was a place of great importance to the royal family of Sweden, and relics of this era remain including the imposing Vadstena Castle that dates from the 16th century and comes complete with an old school moat to protect the royals within.

Vadstena is also known for its monastic relics, including a stunning abbey that was built in the 14th century by the first female saint of Sweden.

There are other places of historical and religious importance dotted around the city, and there is a strong calming and romantic atmosphere here, with rose covered houses and maze like streets for visitors to explore at their own pace.

5. Jönköping/Lake Vättern

Come to this picturesque town, which made its fortune manufacturing and selling matchsticks, for a peaceful and calm retreat from the world, and as a jumping off point to go and visit the nearby Lake Vättern, the second largest lake in Sweden, and upon whose shores the town rests.

The lake is often said to resemble the shape of a finger and there are beautiful views to be found over the clear and glassy surface.

For those feeling energetic, there are nature trails around the lake in order for you to make the most of the outdoor setting and admire the local wildlife and plant life.

6. Kosterhavet

Boasting the first Marine National Park to be inaugurated in Sweden, Kosterhavet is located over the Koster Islands, and is a paradise for those who enjoy the great outdoors and who want to enjoy the many marine pursuits on offer here.

For those looking for adventure there are kayaking and boating opportunities, or you can keep it simple and explore the beaches and rocky terrain that leads you to caves, coves, and outcrops next to the bracing sea. Biking is a common pastime on the islands and you can follow tours of all the places of interest or just go it alone.

As you are by the sea, there is an abundance of fresh seafood to enjoy including locally caught lobster.

7. Gothenburg

Known as the capital of West Sweden, Gothenburg is a charming city filled with cobbled streets that are perfect for roaming around on foot in search of hidden treasures, as well as parks and outdoor spaces, including the Botanical Gardens that will teach you all about indigenous plants and animals.

The city also boasts a wealth of local markets if you fancy trying some of the local produce, or you can dine in one of the upscale restaurants that are putting Swedish food on the culinary map thanks to the number of Michelin starred eateries in Gothenburg.

The city also has a great cafe culture if you want to try the local coffee and Swedish pastries like sweet buns and watch the world go by.

Said to date back to the Middle Ages, Visby is a port and was once a place of great trade importance leading to a protective wall, named the Ringmuren, being built to protect the city from marauders, and this still stands today along with other historical relics in the city that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As well as being a historical gem in Sweden’s crown, Visby is well known on the arts scene, as many famous Swedish artists have chosen to call the port home thanks to its stunning light, and if you visit during the summer months you can tour many of the artists’ homes and studios which are open to visitors, usually in June.

• 9.  The Stockholm Archipelago

Sweden is hardly a frenetic country, but if you still find that you want to get out of the bigger cities and take things even slower, then you can head out to one or several of the 30,000 islands that exist in the Stockholm archipelago.

One of the best ways to get around and witness the stunning and rugged islands is to take one of the old steam boats that still operate in the region. Many have planned day tours with meals included or you can charter a private boat and island hop to your heart’s content, taking in the wild scenery and private atmosphere, as only around 1,000 of the islands in the archipelago are actually inhabited.

Known for being the biggest city in the county of Skåne, Malmö has steadily been making a name for itself in recent years as an arts and cultural hub in Sweden.

Alongside many eclectic and up and coming new galleries, this city also has a strong commitment to ecological causes and fair-trade products, having been made the first Fair-trade City in the country. Many of the restaurants here have a farm-to-table philosophy with an emphasis on organic produce and ingredients, so any serious foodies should not miss the fine dining on offer here.

There is also an emerging nightlife scene in Malmö with many venues providing live music or other pop up events.

• 11.  Jukkasjärvi/ICEHOTEL

If you enjoy winter then you really should consider visiting the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärv, which holds the title as the largest hotel in the world to be constructed from snow and ice.

The hotel usually stands from approximately December-March, after which it becomes too warm for the hotel to be sustainable and so it is left to melt, so if you want to check it out or just go for a drink at the ice bar then you will need to come over the winter period.

Aside from the actual hotel location there are a whole host of activities available at the ICEHOTEL such as ice fishing, dog sledging, and excursions into the wilderness on snowmobiles.

• 12.  Sundsvall

Sundsvall is often called ‘Stone City’, as the previous town was razed to the ground in the 1800s due to a fire. To avoid such an occurrence happening again all the fire damaged building were rebuilt using stone instead of wood, and as such this makes for a more unusual sight as opposed to many other traditional Swedish buildings, particularly those on the coast.

As such many visitors come to Sundsvall to witness the story and the architecture first hand, and after you have seen the mighty stone houses, there is also a famous museum dedicated to local artists and featuring paintings, sculptures, and art installations.

• 13.  Dalarna

The province of Dalarna is well worth a visit for its magnificent ski resorts and the tranquil but mighty Lake Siljan.

Located near the border with Norway, Dalarna is made up of forest, meadows, and wide open spaces, and many of the towns in the province are to be found lakeside, with favorites for travelers both domestic and international being the towns of Mora or Leksand.

If you fancy some winter fun then the resort of Idre, set in the mountains shared by Norway, offers premium skiing and snowboarding, or you can trek in the area on one of the many hiking trails.

• 14.  Lake Mälaren

To the west of Stockholm you will find Lake Mälaren, a vast waterway that is home to Birka Island that sits within the lake and provides a history lesson to anyone interested in the Viking period of Sweden.

The lake’s main city is named Västerås and is known as a bustling city that is lined with beaches, that also has a wealth of historical relics that date from the days of the conquering Vikings.

You can cruise around the lake by boat or simply hop from one location to the other using the main ferries that service the area.

• 15.  Swedish Lapland

If you want to take the road less travelled then Swedish Lapland may just be the perfect place to get away from it all. Located in the Arctic Circle, and known as the home of the Sami or indigenous people who live in the area, Swedish Lapland is made up of a clutch of towns as well as forest and wild but picturesque scrubland.

Visitors can travel to the northernmost town in Sweden, Kiruna, to visit the adjacent national parks that stud the area and allow visitors to see elk, reindeer, and even bears roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Other natural phenomenon to look out for in Swedish Lapland are the midnight sun, when the sun never sets in the summer months, and the Northern Lights.

15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden:

• Jönköping/Lake Vättern
• Kosterhavet

155 Places to visit in Sweden

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

Categories Sweden

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

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

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

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

Places to visit in northern Sweden (Norrland)

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

Själandsklinten (Ångermanland)

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

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

Slåttdalsskrevan (Ångermanland)

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

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

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

Rock carvings by Nämforsen (Ångermanland)

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

Högakustenbron (Ångermanland)

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

Högbondens fyr (Ångermanland)

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

Härnösands bilmuseum (Ångermanland)

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

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

Market of Jokkmokk (Lappland)

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

Tjuonavagge/Lapponian gate (Lappland)

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

Rapadalen (Lappland)

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

Vaisaluokta kåtakyrka (Lappland)

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

Kebnekaise (Lappland)

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

Karesuando church (Lappland)

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

Treriksröset (Lappland)

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

Ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi (Lappland)

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

Kiruna kyrka (Lappland)

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

Abiskojåkka canyon (Lappland)

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

Gammelstad church town in Luleå (Norrbotten)

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

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

Treehotel (Norrbotten)

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

Storforsen (Norrbotten)

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

Rödbergsfortet (Norrbotten)

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

Kukkolaforsen (Norrbotten)

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

Jämtlandstriangeln

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

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

Fettjeåfallet (Jämtland)

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

Borgvattnet’s vicarage (Jämtland)

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

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

Hällingsåfallet (Jämtland)

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

Tännforsen (Jämtland)

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

Ristafallet (Jämtland)

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

Thailändska paviljongen (Jämtland)

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

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

Myskoxcentrum (Härjedalen)

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

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

Sångbäcksfallet (Härjedalen)

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

Flatruet (Härjedalen)

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

Café Cineast (Härjedalen)

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

Sonfjällets nationalpark (Härjedalen)

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

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

Bonnstan (Västerbotten)

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

Idunn Wines (Västerbotten)

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

Lövånger kyrkstad (Västerbotten)

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

Hälsingegårdar (Hälsingland)

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

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

Avholmsberget (Hälsingland)

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

Enåsens gruva (Hälsingland)

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

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

Orbaden Spa & Resort (Hälsingland)

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

Oscarsborg (Hälsingland)

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

Trolska skogen (Hälsingland)

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

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

Wij Gardens (Gästrikland)

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

Gävlebocken (Gästrikland)

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

Forsbacka bruk (Gästrikland)

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

S:t Olavsleden (Medelpad)

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

Merlo castle (Medelpad)

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

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

Vildmarksvägen (Wilderness Road)

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

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

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

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

Attractions in Svealand

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

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

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

Dalhalla (Dalarna)

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

Tomteland (Dalarna)

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

World’s biggest Dala horse (Dalarna)

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

Njupeskär (Dalarna)

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

Nipfjället (Dalarna)

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

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

Öster Silvbergs gruva (Dalarna)

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

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

Falu gruva (Dalarna)

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

Avesta Visentpark (Dalarna)

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

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

Anundshög (Västmanland)

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

Kokpunkten Actionbad (Västmanland)

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

Kolarbyn (Västmanland)

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

Sala Silver mine (Västmanland)

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

Trästaden Nora (Västmanland)

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

Miniature Kingdom (Västmanland)

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

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

Strömsholm Castle (Västmanland)

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

Ingbo källor (Uppland)

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

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

Skokloster Castle (Uppland)

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

Gamla Uppsala (Uppland)

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

Sigtuna (Uppland)

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

Viking Village Storholmen (Uppland)

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

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

Address : Varjagvägen 1, 761 73 Norrtälje.

Drottningholm Castle (Uppland)

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

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

Wik’s Castle (Uppland)

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

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

Örebro Castle (Närke)

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

Lost City – Gustavsvik (Närke)

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

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

Konst på Hög (Närke)

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

Wadköping friluftsmuseum (Närke)

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

Stora Sundby Castle (Södermanland)

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

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

Old town in Stockholm (Gamla stan)

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

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

Stockholms Archipelago

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

Vasamuseet (Stockholm)

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

Gripsholms slott (Södermanland)

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

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

Tilas stoll (Värmland)

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

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

Diner 45 in Sunne (Värmland)

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

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

Rottneros park (Värmland)

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

Tossebergsklätten (Värmland)

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

Båstnäs car cemetery (Värmland)

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

Torsby ski tunnel (Värmland)

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

Årjängstrollet (Värmland)

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

Attractions in Götaland

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

Borgholm Castle ruin (Öland)

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

Solliden (Öland)

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

Byrums raukar (Öland)

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

Böda Sand (Öland)

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

Gettlinge gravfält (Öland)

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

Karlevistenen (Öland)

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

Alvastra klosterruin (Östergötland)

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

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

Särtshöga winery (Östergötland)

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

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

Vreta kloster (Östergötland)

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

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

Vadstena (Östergötland)

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

Rökstenen (Östergötland)

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

Trollegater nature reserve (Östergötland)

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

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

Brändaholm (Blekinge)

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

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

Mörrumsån (Blekinge)

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

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

Hjortsberga gravfält (Blekinge)

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

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

Sölvesborgsbron (Blekinge)

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

Drottningskärs Kastell (Blekinge)

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

Eriksberg Vilt & Natur (Blekinge)

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

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

Ales Stenar (Skåne)

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

Kaffestugan Alunbruket (Skåne)

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

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

Kärnan (Skåne)

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

Lunds Domkyrka (Skåne)

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

Castles in Scania

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

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

Knäbäckshusens strand (Skåne)

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

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

Eslöv toy museum (Skåne)

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

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

Tykarpsgrottan (Skåne)

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

Dalby church (Skåne)

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

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

Kalmar Castle (Småland)

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

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

Teleborg Castle (Småland)

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

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

Astrid Lindgrens värld (Småland)

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

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

Åsens by (Småland)

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

Eksjö (Småland)

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

Glasriket (Småland)

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

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

Granhult church (Småland)

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

Brahehus (Småland)

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

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

High Chaparral (Småland)

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

A World of Dinosaurs (Småland)

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

Gamleby Trollskogen (Småland)

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

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

Tanum Rock Carvings (Bohuslän)

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

Kungsklyftan (Bohuslän)

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

Liseberg (Göteborg)

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

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

Smögen (Bohuslän)

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

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

Pärlane strand (Bohuslän)

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

Bohus fästning

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

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

Ramsvikslandet (Bohuslän)

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

Borrås Skåra (Halland)

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

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

Tjolöholm Castle (Halland)

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

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

Varbergs kallbadhus (Halland)

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

Grimeton radiostation (Halland)

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

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

Lagaoset (Halland)

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

Habo church (Västergötland)

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

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

Läckö Castle (Västergötland)

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

Göta Kanal (Västergötland)

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

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

Varnhems klosterkyrka (Västergötland)

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

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

Hornborgasjön (Västergötland)

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

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

Martorpsfallet (Västergötland)

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

Visby (Gotland)

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

Sankta Maria domkyrka (Gotland)

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

Rauks of Gotland

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

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

Gute Vingård (Gotland)

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

Blå lagunen (Gotland)

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

Lummelundagrottan (Gotland)

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

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

Tingstäde kyrka (Gotland)

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

Kneippbyn (Gotland)

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

Akvedukten i Håverud (Dalsland)

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

Dals Rostock örtagård (Dalsland)

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

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

Tresticklans nationalpark (Dalsland)

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

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

The 12 best experiences Sweden has to offer

Dec 12, 2023 • 7 min read

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

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

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

1. Fall in love with beautiful Stockholm

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

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

2. Island-hop in the Stockholm archipelago

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

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

3. Take a hike

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

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

4. Cruise the Göta Canal

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

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

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

5. Explore southern Sweden on a bike

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

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

6. Ride the rails on Inlandsbanan

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

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

7. Search for the Northern Lights 

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

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

8. Paddle a scenic waterway

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

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

9. Savor the west coast lifestyle

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

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

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

10. Eat your way through Sweden

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

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

11. Road trip through the Swedish countryside

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

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

12. Visit castles, palaces and fortresses

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

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

This article was first published Feb 14, 2022 and updated Dec 12, 2023.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

1. Gamla Stan, Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21, Stockholm

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

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

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

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Hantverkargatan 1, Stockholm

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

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

Address: Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Uppsala

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Kyrkogatan 6, Lund

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

Address: Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

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Swedish cities: The best cities in Sweden to visit this year

If you’re planning a trip to Sweden and want to soak up as many amazing experiences as possible during your vacation, it pays to start with a trip to the best cities in Sweden. There’s more to this stunning destination than just the capital of Stockholm , as we’ll discover…

With some willingness to do a little exploring, you can encounter the many different flavors of culture Sweden has to offer.

In this beautiful Scandinavian location, there’s limitless opportunity to explore old castles, churches, and stunning architecture, relax at a local café, or shop until you drop. The question is, where do you start on your Swedish adventure?

Today, we’re going to be covering some of the top cities in Sweden, and why they’re so appealing to visitors around the globe.

Major cities in Sweden

Let’s start with some of the major cities in Sweden. There are some of the famous, and most popular cities in Sweden, thanks to their wonderful sights, activities, and global reputation. We’ve chosen major cities for their size, too, as the bigger the city, the more attractions there usually are.

1. Stockholm

Probably the most obvious of all the major cities in Sweden , Stockholm is the capital of the country, and it’s actually spread across a total of 14 islands.

Considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the Nordic region, Stockholm is home to an eclectic mix of traditional and modern architecture, with countless fun activities to explore.

You’ll have no trouble finding a trendy café where you can sit and enjoy some Swedish treats and a cup of coffee when you need a break from all the walking around.

Stockholm is also home to a host of attractive museums like the Vasa Museum , and the Royal Palace, in case you want to see how the other half live.

You can even find a handful of nightclubs for evening entertainment.

Find places to stay in Stockholm .

2. Gothenburg

Another of the most famous cities in Sweden, Gothenburg, is a laidback location with plenty to offer both locals and visitors alike. There’s a sense of maritime joy to everything in Gothenburg, which means you’ll be right at home if you like the sea and the food available from it.

There’s an attractive waterfront to walk across, and plenty of beautiful boats to check out too.

Gothenburg is home to a lot of fantastic architecture, as well as a strong cultural and arts scene. With almost 600,000 residents, less than half of the population of Stockholm, Gothenburg offers a more relaxing vibe for people who don’t always want to be surrounded by crowds.

Find places to stay in Gothenburg .

The third of the most popular cities in Sweden, Malmö is a multicultural hub of unique experiences and amazing people. The location borders Copenhagen, so you could even consider taking a quick trip over to Denmark if you feel like doing something different.

Malmö is ideal if you’re interested in art and modern architecture, as well as delicious foods and fun shopping districts.

You can check out Malmö castle or the Malmö Opera House if you’re feeling inspired, or visit the Lilla Torg square, where you’ll discover row upon row of cafes and restaurant terraces, framed by amazing historic buildings.

The Stortorget Square is also worth visiting if you want a look at Swedish history.

F ind places to stay in Malmö .

Though not as well known as the top 3 major cities in Sweden, Uppsala is considered by locals to be the heart of the nation. As one of the oldest destinations to visit in the country, Uppsala has tons of history to explore, and plenty of amazing museums to expand your knowledge.

Despite its traditional background, Uppsala still maintains a lively and energetic vibe, thanks to its large number of students. There are even some impressive nightclubs on offer.

Make sure you check out the Botanical Gardens when visiting Uppsala and visit the Uppsala Cathedral for some beautiful gothic architecture. The destination is only a short distance away from Stockholm, so you can easily hit the capital and this beautiful, underrated destination at the same time.

Find places to stay in Uppsala .

5. Vasteras

Vasteras is more than ten times smaller than Stockholm in terms of population, but this doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit. Though it may look a little daunting from afar, due to a high number of shopping centers and industrial areas, visiting the center of town will give you plenty of beauty to enjoy.

There are amazing, cobbled streets, stunning cottages and flower-filled gardens galore.

If you want a really unique experience, go and visit the largest burial mound in Sweden, Anundshog, the location is apparently the resting place of the legendary king Brot-Anund. Alternatively, why not visit the Vasteras Cathedral for some beautiful picture-perfect moments?

Find places to stay in Vasteras .

Örbero is one of the larger popular cities in Sweden, known for its fantastic Tiveden National Park. According to legend, the park was carved by glaciers, and was once home to trolls and other Swedish fairytale creatures .

If you have a car or you’re willing to find another form of transport, the region is great for hiking and cycling, but it doesn’t have public transport.

If you can’t get to Tiveden, you can always try the kid-friendly Stadsparken park instead. This green getaway stretches along the black river in Sweden, and merges into the Wadkoping museum village. The park was once named the most beautiful park in Sweden, so it’s hard to compete with.

Find places to stay in Örbero .

Popular cities in Sweden

There are over 60 cities in Sweden, so even if you don’t want to check out some of the biggest major locations, you can still find the atmosphere you’re looking for among some of the lesser-known gems.

Here are some of the beautiful places you can visit in Sweden just off the beaten track:

The capital of Gotland, Visby is one of the most stunning cities Sweden has to offer. If you’re a fan of old-fashioned buildings and medieval aesthetics, this is definitely the place for you.

It’s easy to spend all day exploring the multitude of cobbled streets and alleys, all with their own adorable shops and charming cafes to visit.

You’ll find a host of beautiful ruins, picturesque cottages and churches all blending together in Visby to give it a unique vibe. Though the location can be a little crowded in the Summer, it’s definitely worth visiting when you get a chance.

When possible, try to visit during Medieval week, when the city is packed full of costumed people and events.

Find places to stay in Visby .

8. Linköping

Located in southern Sweden, Linköping is a popular location to visit if you’re interested in open air museums and beautiful educational environments.

A short walk from the city center, you’ll find the Berg Locks on the Gota canal, where you can hire a boat, or explore some delicious fresh foods from local sellers. Alternatively, go and visit the best preserved Swedish medieval cathedral in Sweden.

The Air Force Museum is extremely interesting if you’re interested in seeing the incredible wrecks of some genuine airplanes. Alternatively, you can take a walk through the open-air Museum Gamla and feel as though you’re travelling back in time a century or two.

Find places to stay in Linköping .

9. Karlstad

Located on the shores of Lake Vanern, Karlstad is a must-visit destination in Sweden for lovers of the great outdoors. Though quite a bit smaller than some of the other Swedish cities we’ve mentioned, Karlstad is still one of the most popular to visit.

Here, you’ll find the Varmlands museum, which uncovers the culture and history of this specific part of Sweden, with more than 9000 artworks and 40,000 artefacts to learn about. There’s also the Stadsträdgården park — an English-style park featuring over 800 species of trees and shrubs.

Find places to stay in Karlstad .

10. Halmstad

One of the things making Halmstad one of the best cities in Sweden is its unique history. There was a huge fire in this location in 1619, which forced the city to rebuild almost from scratch.

Today, you can enjoy a wide range of food and drink locations catering to visitors or hire a boat to take a trip down the Nissan River, soaking in the scenery as you go.

The Galgberget park is a stunning restful space if you want a place for a picnic during the summer, or you can head to the Tylosand strand beach. This Swedish beach is famous for its silky white sand — just keep in mind the northern sea waves can be pretty cold.

Find places to stay in Halmstad .

Perhaps the most attractive thing about Lund is its incredible historical architecture. Lund is another of the oldest cities in Sweden, located in the Southern side of the country.

There are cobblestone towns to stroll through when you want a relaxing, lazy day, or you can discover the magic of the ancient Romanesque style Lund Cathedral.

Lund has its own open-air museum, where you can find all kinds of archeological relics from the bronze and stone ages. You’ll also have no trouble finding greenery to enjoy here. There are plenty of leafy parks to sit in with your family for a quick picnic.

Thanks to the University in the city, Lund maintains a young and fresh vibe.

Find places to stay in Lund .

12. Helsingborg

Feel like soaking up some sea air on the Swedish coast? One of the most popular cities in Sweden, Helsingborg is a beautiful destination to visit, particularly if you’re thinking of taking the ferry to visit Denmark soon after.

The location is best-known for its old town, where you’ll find the only surviving element of an ancient fortress, Karnan tower.

The region is also home to the Tropikariet indoor zoo, where you can check out some exotic animals, and the fantastic waterfront, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafes. There’s also a fantastic arts and theatre scene if you’re interested in theatrics.

Find places to stay in Helsingborg .

More top cities in Sweden

Listing the top towns in Sweden, or the most popular Swedish cities can be difficult, as every destination has its own unique charm. There are plenty of important cities to visit in Sweden, but it’ll be up to you to determine which regions appeal most to your taste.

Here are some more of the best cities to visit in Sweden we haven’t covered so far:

13. Sundsvall

Lying beside the Bothnian coast, the Sundsvall cosmopolitan city in Sweden offers a slightly different experience to what you might expect from other parts of the country. The beautiful region seems to be perfectly manicured, with uniform houses, crystal-clean streets, and plenty of boulevards to explore.

It’s definitely worth visiting the Sundsvalls Museum to learn more about this incredible place.

In 1888, the town was almost entirely burned down, and rebuilt again at an incredible pace. Many local Swedes refer to the region as the “Stone City”, thanks to the stone houses lining the streets.

Beaches in Copenhagen: Get some R&R in the Danish capital

Find places to stay in Sundsvall .

Umea might not be first on the list of top cities in Sweden based on its population, but this small location could be a hidden gem for many adventurers. Located in Eastern Sweden, Umea is best known for its cultural institutions and open-air museum.

There’s a huge art gallery, and a museum where you can learn all about gorgeous, vintage guitars. You’ll also find a range of museums to teach you about the indigenous Sami tribes.

Outside of the cultural attractions, Umea is a great place for relaxation and exploration in equal measure. You can go shopping at one of the great shopping districts, check out some bars and restaurants, or just head out to one of the many parks placed around the city.

Find places to stay in Umea .

15. Karlskrona

The capital of Blekinge County, Karlskrona will give you a Swedish travel experience like no other. Among all the famous cities in Sweden, Karlskrona is the only “baroque” option.

The city is also a military base town, so you can expect to find a lot of naval architecture, museums, and beautiful ancient buildings to explore too.

Originally established to give the King of Sweden more control over the Baltic Sea, Karlskrona has grown significantly over the years.

It still can’t compete in size with some of the bigger major cities in Sweden, but it’s definitely a place worth checking out if you’re looking for unique architecture and amazing sights.

Find places to stay in Karlskrona .

One of the many overlooked cities in Sweden, Gävle is the capital of Gävleborg county, and the oldest city in the historical Norrland. If you want a destination out of the way of the crowds and chaos you might find in some other major cities in Sweden, Gävle could be an excellent choice.

It’s particularly worth a visit around Christmas , when you’ll see iconic Gavle goat — a 13 meter high Yule goat made of straw.

If you’re visiting in the warmer months, check out the Boulognerskogen park which was created all the way back in 1865. There’s a trail near the river with lots of handy information boards if you want to learn more about the location.

Find places to stay in Gävle .

Located towards the West of Sweden, around 45 minutes from Gothenburg, Boras is one of the most attractive cities to visit in Sweden. Many of the municipal buildings and apartment blocks in this city are decorated with amazing street art.

The murals draw the eyes of visitors all around the world.

You can also find plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained in Boras, such as the ethical, thoughtfully constructed zoo on the northern outskirts of the city. The park has more than 600 animals, and 65 species, including the only African elephants in Sweden.

This is one of the only zoos where cheetahs have been successfully bred.

Find places to stay in Boras .

More of a town than a city, Växjö is located in the southern side of Sweden, and its home to a number of beautiful museums, great for people who want to learn more about Swedish history.

The Swedish glass museum in Växjö is a must visit for a lot of tourists, as is the Växjö Cathedral, where you’ll find a glass altar and glass tree.

Växjö also has the Asnens National Park to its credit, where you can stroll along the lake and check out some local wildlife. Plus, there’s the Teleborg Castle if you’re interested in a more historical walking area after an afternoon lunch. 

Find places to stay in Växjö .

Finally, Luleå is an incredible coastal city located in Swedish Lapland. Best-known for its wonderful Gammelstad church town, as well as beautifully-preserved wooden houses and the impeccable Nederlulea church dating back to the 1400s.

Closer to the center of the city, you’ll find museums to show off local culture, history and art. There are also more than 1000 islands located just off shore, on the bay of Bothnia.

If you’re looking for a fun way to learning something, check out the Teknikens Hus Science Museum. We’d also recommend a trip to the Balingberget nature reserve if you’re into the great outdoors.

Find places to stay in Luleå .

Exploring the best cities in Sweden

With a multitude of amazing cities in Sweden to explore, you’ll never be lost for something to do, or somewhere to go in this wonderful Scandinavian location.

The major cities in Sweden covered above are just a handful of the locations we recommend visiting if you want to get a taste of everything Sweden has to offer.

Of course, it’s definitely worth checking out some of the alternative top cities in Sweden we haven’t explored here too, such as Varberg, Gustavsberg, Tumba, and Kalmar.

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The Best Cities in Sweden

Sweden's cities can differ a lot, so it's very interesting to visit more than one. But which cities in Sweden are best for travelers? Well, let's take a look at the characteristics of our favorites and pick the cities that suit you best. Travel from city to city in Sweden provides several transportation options and the connecting journeys between the cities are very scenic.

The City of Malmö

The city of Malmö is one of the best Swedish city destinations for year-round travel. Southern Sweden guarantees you mild weather, and the amount of things to do in the area (not to mention the proximity to Copenhagen) make Malmö a visitor's dream. When planning your visit, just keep in mind that it's actually a lot quicker to get from Copenhagen to Malmö than getting from Stockholm to Malmö.

The Malmö Travel Guide | The Øresund Bridge

The City of Stockholm

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Naturally, the city of Stockholm , Sweden's capital, is an absolute must for visitors. You're likely to fly into Stockholm on your way to another Swedish destination. Make sure to take a day or two to enjoy the bustling metropolitan area that is Stockholm, and dash over to the amazing Vasa Museum and to Djurgarden , the idyllic island in the center of Stockholm.

The Stockholm Travel Guide | 11 Free Things to Do in Stockholm

The City of Gothenburg (Göteborg)

If you love nature and history but don't feel like dealing with a city full of tourists, Göteborg is the best Swedish city for you. Göteborg is Sweden's second-largest city and, sadly, is often overlooked by travelers. You'll find this charming city on the west coast of southern Sweden. It's also an ideal location if you need a central base from which you want to visit the Scandinavian capitals .

9 Great Budget Hotels in Göteborg

The City of Uppsala

Younger travelers will simply love Uppsala. Uppsala is the best city in Sweden for hot and hip nightlife - after all, it's a university town with thousands of students, lots of events and a great transportation network. But there are things that appeal to all ages: The long and interesting history of this city includes a Viking burial site called Gamla Uppsala and the ruins of an 11th-century church. Plus, it's just an hour away from beautiful but quaint Swedish town Gävle.

How to Get from Stockholm to Uppsala

The 8 Best Day Trips From Stockholm, Sweden

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Scandinavia

7 Days in Sweden

8 Scandinavian Cruises for Any Time Frame

A Guide to Airports in Scandinavia

The Regions of Sweden

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

Is It Safe in Sweden?

Best Things to See in Malmo, Sweden

11 Top Things to Do for Free in Stockholm, Sweden

Your Trip to Copenhagen: The Complete Guide

The 7 Best Beaches in Sweden

14 Best Attractions and Things to Do in Scandinavia

The 14 Best Day Trips from Copenhagen

18 Top Things to Do in Stockholm

How to Travel from Stockholm to Gothenburg by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Sweden Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sweden?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 to 7-Day Sweden Itinerary

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

Day 1 – Stockholm

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Sigtuna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Orebro 

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Orebro

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

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

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

Day 4 – Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Southern Gothenburg Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Malmo

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Malmo

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

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

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

Day 7 – Lund

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

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

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

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

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

Have More Time?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 3 to 4 Days in Stockholm Itinerary

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.

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

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

Love your passion for travel and detailed itineraries.

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

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

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

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

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The best places to visit in Sweden: 2023 guide

Sweden isn’t just some tiny nation in the northern reaches of Europe. Geographically speaking, it’s huge: the distance between Sweden’s southern tip and Lapland’s far north is longer than the distance between London and Rome.

As you might expect, given the sheer size of the place, the country’s landscapes are wild and diverse, taking in everything from rolling green countryside to dense forests, sprawling river valleys and frozen glaciers.

Despite this, most tourists (and indeed most Swedes) spend their time in the southern third of the country, which is home to the three largest cities.

Stockholm Gothenburg Malmö Gotland The Far North Österlen Lund Dalarna Luleå The Bohuslän coast Ystad Jokkmokk Kiruna

Sweden’s cities

Spread across a series of low islands and with an enviable location between the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren, Stockholm is perhaps Europe’s prettiest capital city.

Gothenburg , over on the west coast, is a less showy alternative with an exciting cultural scene and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever catch sight of.

Both of these big cities have unspoilt archipelagos in their backyards, with sleepy islands – many of them car-free – providing a slow-paced alternative to life in the city.

Malmö , Sweden’s third-largest city, is proudly the most diverse place in the country, with an arty vibe and plenty of cool parks, shops and museums.

Nearby Lund , an enchanting city with its roots in the Viking Age, is also worth a look around. Thanks to its rich history and a lively student population, it has more to offer than many Nordic cities double the size.

Other places worth visiting in the south of Sweden include Uppsala, a cathedral city with botanical gardens and ancient burial mounds, and Sigtuna, widely thought to be Sweden’s oldest town. Its medieval centre is a charming spot for shopping and slurping coffee.

Southern Sweden

Beyond the built-up areas, rural Sweden shines. Southern areas such as Skåne are home to fields of cornflowers and poppies, while in central parts of the country shimmering lakes abound.

For drivers the large population of elk can pose a real danger, but the rewards are more than worth it.

Even for Swedes who have grown up around these landscapes, areas like Dalarna still hold a magical appeal – it’s not unusual for wealthy Stockholmers to have a cute red cottage in rural Sweden, which they make use of during the long summer break.

The far north

Further north you’ll find some of Sweden’s most spectacular national parks including Sarek, home to almost 100 glaciers, and Padjelanta, where you’ll spot countless wild reindeer.

Settlements in and around the Arctic Circle are small, fascinating… and invariably freezing. Try Abikso , one of the best spots on Earth for watching the northern lights , or Kiruna , a mining community that’s being rebuilt in the face of an existential crisis.

You won’t be able to squeeze everything that Sweden has to offer into a single trip, but by prioritising a few main areas you’ll be able to get a good feel for the country’s many sides in a couple of short weeks.

Need some help deciding? Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Sweden.

Most visits to Sweden begin in Stockholm, and for very good reason. This is a beautiful, waterside city that will have you staring slack-jawed at skylines full of spires.

Even if you’re not a photography buff, we can guarantee that you’ll end up reaching for your camera over and over again.

You could easily spend a week or more checking out Stockholm’s many museums and boat trips, but there’s a lot to be said for just wandering around and getting a feel for the city’s rich history, as well as its famously cool shops, restaurants and bars.

The best way to get to know the old town well is to take a walking tour with a guide who knows all the insider knowledge and the best places to visit.  There are also some seriously unusual places to stay .

It’s true: a trip to the Swedish capital can work out to be pretty expensive. But as we’ve already proved, you can spend two full days there for less than £80 – that’s around $120.

The city is also overflowing with free things to do . Let Stockholm take up a few days of your life and you’ll probably fall in love.

5 things not to miss in Stockholm

• Gawp at the majestic 17th-century warship Vasa , which spent 333 years under water before being turned into Stockholm’s premier tourist attraction.
• Get lost among the narrow lanes of Gamla Stan , and then take a wander through the subterranean Medieval Museum or the opulent Royal Palace .
• Spend a night in one of the city’s kooky hotels or hostels – there’s an  elegant sailing ship , an old prison and even a converted Boeing 747 .
• Go bar-hopping with designers, musicians and fashionistas in SoFo, the city’s coolest neighbourhood, or hit Stockholm’s markets and food carts for some of the tastiest cheap eats in Sweden, including classics like meatballs and Baltic herring.
• Kick back in one of Stockholm’s neatly preened parks, or head out into the archipelago for a spot of sailing or wild swimming.

Sweden’s second-biggest city serves as a nice counterpoint to the glitz and glamour of the capital.

The locals are more laid back, for one thing, and it’s also cheaper and easier to explore than Stockholm, where high prices are a part of everyday life.

That’s not to say that Gothenburg isn’t glamorous in its own way: go beyond the ugly port’s tall cranes and shipping containers and you’ll find beautiful parks and gardens , as well as serene, car-free islands that harbour sleepy swimming spots.

Taking a boat cruise round the islands of the archipelago is one of our favourite things to do in Gothenburg.

For more about the Gothenburg archipelago, check out o ur guide to the best islands to visit .

There are other reasons for visiting the west coast’s main city. The wide streets are bursting with things to do in the summer or winter, from galleries and stately homes to whacky museums that really must be seen to be believed.

These days, Gothenburg is also home to some of Scandinavia’s best bars and restaurants . Period.

Add in the creative music and fashion industries, a bubbly local craft beer scene and a few hair-raising rollercoasters, and it’s easy to see why Gothenburg is one of the best places to visit in Sweden.

5 things not to miss in Gothenburg

• See the world’s only stuffed blue whale at the quirky natural history museum , then either ogle at some of the other oddball exhibits or chill out in Slottsskogen , Gothenburg’s best park.
• Top your caffeine levels up in the showpiece neighbourhood of Haga, home to cute wood-and-stone houses and some of the cosiest cafes you could ever hope to fika in.
• Get white knuckles at Liseberg , Scandinavia’s biggest and best theme park. Try rickety Balder, a nerve-jangling wooden coaster, or get a 360-degree view of the city from the aptly named Atmosfear  ride – it’s 116 metres high. The Gothia Towers hotel has views over the theme park.
• Discover West Sweden’s rural charms on a road trip into the countryside. With old-fashioned petrol stations and American-style diners to stop at along the way, the intriguing retro road is well worth following.
• Chomp your way through mounds of freshly caught prawns, crayfish and lobster at one of the city’s amazing seafood restaurants.

A former fishing town, Malmö is now Sweden’s third largest city and the country’s most cosmopolitan and culturally diverse community.

Its cobbled old town square was once Europe’s largest market square, and the city is still known today for its lively shops , restaurants, cafés and bars.

If you want to stay, we like the eco-friendly More Hotel Mazetti with comfortable self-catering studios in a converted former chocolate factory.

For more on what to do in Malmö on a budget, see our guide to 22 free things to do in Malmö .

5 things not to miss in Malmö

• Check out the Turning Torso. Malmö is home to the striking Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s highest skyscraper, designed by top architect Santiago Calatrava.
• See the city’s sights on a fun canal boat trip .
• Take a day-trip to Denmark. Cross the famous Øresund Bridge and spend the day in Copenhagen, just a short train or bus trip away.
• Explore the city by bike. Malmö is well set up for cyclists, so rent a bike and travel around like the locals do.
• Visit the Disgusting Food Museum . Sample Surströmming – the world’s stinkiest food – fermented shark and dried insects at this quirky, fun and frankly quite disgusting museum!

For many Swedes summer means a trip to Gotland, Sweden’s biggest island. Marooned in the Baltic, it’s a laid-back haven with some of the country’s best weather, not to mention stunning sandy beaches, and thick forests that seem to have been made for hiking and biking.

Given its strategic location, it’s not surprising that Gotland has a long and turbulent history. The medieval town of Visby, the island’s main settlement, is like something straight out of Game of Thrones, and items from the Viking Age are regularly dug up across the island.

A fun way to see Visby and learn all about its history is on a hop-on, hop-off open-top bus tour .

Today Gotland also hosts Sweden’s biggest political event, Almedalsveckan , as well as a weeklong medieval festival.

What else makes Gotland one of the best places to go in Sweden? Oh, just the mesmerising freshwater lakes, the weird stone formations, the deep caves, the dingy bars and the oh-so handsome gardens…

5 things not to miss in Gotland

• Head underground at Lummelundagrottan , a vast cave discovered by three teenage boys in 1948. When you’re done with admiring the stalactites and stalagmites, explore the nature trails that start near the cave’s entrance.
• Unleash your inner knight at Visby’s medieval week (Medeltidsveckan) , which takes place in August. Expect jousting, concerts and lot of people in silly costumes.
• Wake up to spectacular sea views when camping at Visby Strandby , just outside the old city walls. Or, for more comfort, we love the Donners Hotel within the medieval town walls in the heart of the UNESCO Heritage city.
• Head to the neighbouring (and much smaller) island of Fårö, once home to Swedish director Ingmar Bergman, and marvel at the eerie, wave-gnarled sea stacks at Långhammars.
• Hire a bike and discover out-of-the-way cafés and swimming holes, as well as farm shops selling local produce. Gotlandsleden, one of many well-pedalled routes, is a 500km epic that skirts the entire coastline.

Sweden’s far north is home to some of Europe’s most thrilling landscapes. In winter, great rivers and waterfalls freeze to a halt, and vast forests bend under the weight of too much snow.

When summer sun finally makes things melt, the whole region bursts into life – wild flowers bloom in the valleys, mosquitoes buzz through the air, and the weather can actually get quite warm.

Getting to Lapland takes some effort, but the rewards are easily worth it. The big draw for many is seeing the northern lights, which are (in theory, anyway) visible across the entire region.

Even without the lights, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. Go moose-spotting , try skiing under the midnight sun, or spend a night at the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi.

This is also one of the best parts of Sweden for hiking, camping and wildlife spotting thanks to the abundance of wilderness areas.

5 things not to miss in northern Sweden

• Tackle the epic Kungsleden hiking trail, which snakes through some of the country’s most magnificent mountain scenery. The entire route is a whopping 425km long, but signposts and simple cabins built for overnight stops make it possible to take on bite-sized sections. For more on this epic trail, read our guide to Hiking the Kungsleden .
• See the northern lights . No matter how many pictures you’ve seen, nothing will provide you for seeing the aurora up close and personal. The area around Abisko is the ideal place to base yourself.
• Drink beer as you roast yourself in a traditional wood-fired sauna, then dive into a lake or roll around in the snow – clothing optional . This is about as Swedish as it gets.
• Try dog sledding . Snowmobiling is fun, but nothing beats the quiet serenity of whizzing over lakes on the back of a sleigh pulled by a pack of happy huskies.
• Go wild. National parks like Abisko and Sarek are phenomenally beautiful wilderness areas, but you’ll need some serious outdoor knowledge (or a professional guide) to explore safely, especially in winter.

TOURS AND ACTIVITIES IN SWEDEN MORE TOURS

Tucked away in the southeast corner of the country, the picturesque region known as Österlen is a long-standing favourite among holidaying Swedes. Somehow, though, it’s remained off the radar for international visitors.

Go in the summertime to browse the many small art galleries and farm shops that throw open their doors to visitors, or to sunbathe and swim at the pristine sandy beaches that skirt the Baltic coast.

The culinary scene in this part of Sweden is rapidly picking up pace, and you’ll find that even middle-of-nowhere hotels and restaurants are adept at turning seasonal, locally grown ingredients into kick-ass lunches and dinners.

Fishing is also a big deal, and locally caught sea trout often makes it onto menus.

5 things not to miss in Österlen

• Visit some of the small, independent galleries run by local glassblowers, painters and sculptors. Some artists even open up their homes for visitors during events like Konstrundan , which takes place in the spring.
• Go paddling at the marvellous sandy beach in Knäbäckshusen. On a sunny summer’s day it looks like it’s been imported straight from Thailand or the Philippines. For more on Sweden’s best beaches, click here .
• Drop by one of the roadside farm shops for locally grown asparagus, apples and wild strawberries, or whatever else is in season when you visit.
• Visit Glimmingehus , the best-preserved medieval manor house in all of Scandinavia.
• Check into a spa hotel for some pampering. Kiviks Hotell has lovely sea views, as well as hot tubs, saunas and massage rooms.

Lund often gets overlooked as tourists rush through southern Sweden on their way to or from Copenhagen.

But this seriously ancient city has been around since the time of the Vikings, and is one of the best places to visit if you want to get your head around the entire region’s history.

The central part of Lund is full of handsome (and sometimes very wonky) buildings, and there are museums covering everything from old rune stones and weapons to quirky modern art.

This self-guided walking tour explores the city’s history and takes you round the main sights, with a real-life historical murder mystery to solve too.

Or, rent a bike for a ride through the cobbled streets and pretty parks and you’ll soon soak up lots of sights.

The local uni is a bit like a Swedish version of Oxford, and it helps to keep the average age of the citizens here quite low. Happily, there are a correspondingly high number of bars and pubs.

And you don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun in Lund: here are some ideas for free things to do in Lund .

5 things not to miss in Lund

• Try cycling your way along an old railway line on one of these bizarre bike–train contraptions . The scenery is lovely.
• Admire Lund’s grand cathedral and the gloomy crypt beneath it, and then chill out in the surrounding parkland. Across town, a separate and now ruined church is completely underground.
• Check out the weird and wonderful objects kept in the ‘curiosity room’ at Lund’s history museum , including Egyptian gems and a bunch of tools from the South Pacific.
• Fika (drink coffee and natter with friends) at one of Lund’s cool cafés, many of which are housed in historic buildings.
• Get a masterclass in modern art at the splendid Museum of Sketches .

Red cottages, blue lakes, and verdant pine forests: if you want a glimpse of the ‘real’ Sweden, the central province of Dalarna should be high on your list of places to visit.

Nowhere else in the country matches it for picture-postcard beauty, and during the summer it’s a favourite holiday retreat for Swedes, who come for a bit of swimming, camping and sightseeing.

The best base for exploring Dalarna is Siljan – a vast blue lake edged by laid-back towns such as Mora, Rättvik and Leksand. Most have beaches, waterfront restaurants and campsites where you can hire kayaks for splashing around on the lake.

We like the Nås Camping Dalarna with tent pitches and pretty wooden cottages to rent, by the river Västerdalälven.

There are lots of other things to do in the area including a bear park (this area is home to many of Sweden’s brown bears) and a bunch of museums, some showcasing the work of local artists.

If you want to know about the region’s iconic red houses, read our guide to Where Sweden’s cottages get their colour.

5 things not to miss in Dalarna

• Ride the scenic Inlandsbanan railway, which cuts through the very centre of Sweden, calling at Mora and Orsa.
• Watch the frantic climax of the gruelling Vasaloppet ski competition, which finishes in Mora. Taking place annually on the first Sunday in March and covering an incredible 90km, it’s the world’s longest race for skiers.
• Witness rural Sweden’s obsession with 1950s American culture at Rättvik’s Classic Car Week, when hundreds of old Cadillacs and Mustangs take to the streets.
• Swim, sail or kayak on Lake Siljan, then spend lazy summer nights barbecuing by the shoreline.
• Head to Zornmuseet to see works by Swedish artist Anders Zorn, who was born in Mora and spent a lot of time painting pictures of lakes and naked ladies.

The north’s coolest city is fast becoming a hub for technology and culture, with a disproportionate number of galleries and design shops.

Facebook has a data centre in Luleå , which has helped to give the place a cosmopolitan feel – well, for northern Sweden, anyway – and there are also some decent dining options.

If you have time left over after exploring Luleå itself, there are a few great little day trips nearby.

5 things not to miss in Luleå

• Explore the Unesco-listed church town , where the cute streets are lined with wooden cottages.
• Go sailing, kayaking or kite surfing in the vast archipelago, which is home to more than 1300 islands.
• Learn about life in the north (and grab cup of good coffee) at Norrbottens Museum .
• Head to the free exhibitions at Kulturens Hus to check out works by hotly tipped Swedish artists and designers.
• Treat yourself to a night at Clarion Sense , one of the region’s flashiest hotels – or just grab a cocktail in its panoramic ‘sky bar’.

The Bohuslän coast

The stretch of coast from Gothenburg north up to the Norwegian border is dotted with almost 8000 islands, countless coves, beaches and pretty fishing villages. 

Running around 280 kilometres up Sweden’s western side, the Bohuslän coast is a rugged picturesque stretch of seashore

that is popular with Swedish holidaymakers but little-known outside the country.

Fishing, sailing, swimming, kayaking and walking are all popular activities here, and it’s easy to see why Swedes head her over the summer months.

Connected to the mainland by bridges, the island of Marstrand is a former fishing community that is now frequented by sailors and makes a great base from which to explore this coastline. 

Its main town, also called Marstrand, has pretty cobbled streets, a lively harbour front and a 300-year-old castle, now a B&B that you can stay in .

Along the coast, Sweden’s third largest island Orust is a perfect place for walking, cycling, sailing, kayaking and even having a dip at one of its secluded swimming spots.

North of here, Fjällbacka is the location of the best-selling, atmospheric Fjällbacka series of crime novels and birthplace of their author, crime writer Camilla Läckberg. If you want to stay we suggest the Bryggan Fjällbacka , overlooking the waterfront. 

For more on the Bohuslän coast, see our guide to the best places to visit on Sweden’s west coast .

5 things not to miss on the Bohuslän coast

• Kayak around Sweden’s oldest national marine park, Kosterhavets. Take a guided tour or rent your kayak and paddle round the offshore islands, remote beaches and waterways of the national park.
• Explore Fiskebackskil, one of the Bohuslän coast’s prettiest villages on the island of Skaftö. We think the Slippens Hotel by the harbour makes a great base from which to explore the island’s beaches and walking trails or to take a boat trip. 
• Eat seafood in Strömstad. Up near the Norwegian border, Strömstad is Sweden’s seafood capital with plenty of restaurants serving lobster, crab, crayfish and langoustine straight from the sea.
• Take a boat trip out to the deserted Väderöarna Islands, Sweden’s westernmost island group – look out for seals on the way.
• Walk or cycle the long-distance Kustigen coastal path, that runs the length of Sweden’s west coast and takes in the beautiful Bohuslän coast.

One of Sweden’s most southerly towns, Ystad is a pretty, well-preserved place with cobbled streets and brightly coloured timbered houses.

This medieval town lies on Sweden’s south coast, surrounded by sandy beaches and the flat, brooding landscapes of Skåne county.

We love its picturesque main square, and the maze of cobbled streets that wind around it lined with tiny medieval cottages.

Ystad is also a port town with regular ferry connections to Poland and to the Danish island of Bornholm.

But probably the Ystad’s main claim-to-fame is as the home of troubled detective Wallendar in the highly successful books by Henning Mankell, films and TV series.

5 things not to miss in Ystad

• Stay in Wallender’s police station. Previously the town’s train station, the comfortable and stylishly converted Station B&B , is the building that was used as location for the police station in the Wallander TV series.
• Chill on the beach. The town beach is a long stretch of white sand that runs east for 4km and is backed by a nature reserve.
• Cycle to the enigmatic monoliths of Ales Stenar. This g uided bike tour takes you through pretty countryside to see the ancient stones, which were Wallender’s favourite place of contemplation. 
• Take a day-tip to Denmark. The pretty island of Bornholm is just 1hr and 20 minutes away by high-speed ferry, and is known for its tasty fish and local cuisine.
• Channel your inner detective. A fun way to explore the town is with this self-guided Wallandar walking tour . Solve clues to the murder mystery, while visiting and learning about the town’s sights on the way.

Just inside the Arctic Circle, the town of Jokkmokk is the centre of the Sami community in Swedish Lapland.

For more than 400 years, Sami people have met here every February for the annual Jokkmokk market. 

Originally, the Sami came here to trade and meet their kin, but today it’s also a celebration of the colourful Sami culture, food and traditions.

Even, outside of market time, look out for Sami people dressed in their brightly-coloured traditional clothing in town. If you want to stay, we love the Peace and Quiet Hotel , where you can sleep in a floating glass-roofed room on the lake.

5 things not to miss in Jokkmokk

• Watch the reindeer races over a frozen lake during the annual Jokkmokk Great Winter market (one of Sweden’s oldest markets) in February.
• Buy Sami handicrafts. Jokkmokk is a great place to get authentic Sami arts and crafts: read Shopping in Jokkmokk for our favourite places to buy Sami souvenirs.
• Learn about the Sami culture and traditions at Ajtte . We love this informative museum that tells the story behind the region’s indigenous people and their land. 
• See the midnight sun. Since Jokkmokk is just north of the Arctic Circle, it’s possible to see the midnight sun for 32 days of the year (from early June to early July).
• Take the Inlandsbanen. In summer the scenic inlandsbanan train runs all the way along the length of Sweden from Kristinehamn in the south up to Gällivare in the north, stopping at Jokkmokk en route.

It may not be the most picturesque town in Northern Sweden, but the mining town of Kiruna makes a great jumping-off point for winter sports, exploring rural Lapland and getting out into the wilderness of northern Sweden.

It’s also fascinating because the town is currently being moved building by building some three kilometres to the east due to massive subsidence cause by the iron ore mining industry.

If you want to stay, we suggest Camp Ripan just outside town with cabins in the woods, an outdoor hot tub and spa. 

5 things not to miss in Kiruna

Whatever you may think about the ethics of the mining industry, there’s no denying that this is a mega feat of engineering.

• Go husky-sledding. Learn how to be a “musher” and drive your team of dogs over the snow.
• Take a snowshoe trip. This fun snowshoe trip takes you out over a frozen lake where you can try a spot of ice-fishing. 
• Go underground on a mining tour , and learn all the workings of the mine.
• Get the best pics of the northern lights on this guided tour with a professional photographer .
• Visit the ice hotel. It’s an easy day-trip to the world-famous Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi , which is rebuilt every year from the frozen blocks of ice from the nearby frozen river. 

Don’t forget your travel insurance!

Sweden is a safe place to visit but our advice is simple – you need travel insurance for your trip!  Having the right policy in place can make a huge difference when things go wrong.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Need more tips? Check out our destination pages or sign up for the free Routes North newsletter .

Seeing the northern lights in Sweden (2023 update)

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Göteborg sooooo much better from Stockholm more beautiful and friendly so more places to visit and see and cleaner, I visited both

This is a super informative article on sweden. very well done. i read about places and have swede blood but do not travel. thanks…

We are heading back to beautiful Mora in Dalarna on February 1st. We have visited many times and it truly is a magical place. We will then be heading up to Idre in northern Dalarna for some real “off the beaten track” lodging and a variety of winter sports. If you have never been to Sweden, make the province of Dalarna a must. You will not regret it!

Thanks Gavin, hope you enjoy Dalarna – it is beautiful!

How do you get there ?

Thank you for this great post, you are doing a fantastic job! I am planning a trip to the Nordics for this summer and find your posts to be very organized, informative, and well-written. Cheers!

Thank you so much for your message! It really is appreciated and I’m glad you’re finding the guides useful 🙂 Have a great trip!

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The 14 best places to visit in Sweden: Amazing nature, vibrant cities, and beautiful small towns

Sweden is a highly underrated country in Europe that deserves so much more attention. There are endless places to visit in Sweden that will take your breath away, from ice hotels, historical sites, charming villages, and not to mention the aurora borealis!

If you plan a visit to this incredible Scandinavian country, it can be hard to pick out the most beautiful places in Sweden for your vacation.

As a Norwegian, from eastern Norway, I’ve spent quite some time across the border. Yet, I’ve asked other travelers too, that have seen other parts of the country to chime in with their favorite places to visit in Sweden.

Get ready to explore incredible destinations with unreal experiences. Here are the best places to visit in Sweden!

Oh! And did I mention that Sweden is up there with the leading eco tourism destinations ?

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in Sweden

Stockholm is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Sweden with charming canals, houseboats, and a vibrant old town. It’s also the first Green Capital in Europe.

There are a lot of amazing things to do in Stockholm beyond the streets of old town where you can sip lattes and people watch in any of the cute cafes.

Make sure you add the outdoor museum, Skansen, and the warship at Vasa Museum to your Stockholm itinerary. If you travel with kids, you shouldn’t miss out on Astrid Lindgren’s Junibacken theme park.

Stockholm’s Royal Palace is one of the largest in Europe and if you get there at the right time you might witness the change of the guards. But no visit to Stockholm is complete without a boat trip through the canals.

You should also make time for a trip to Drottningholm Palace, the royal family’s residence, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. If you have the time, take a boat trip to the Stockholm Archipelago!

It’s easy to get to Sweden’s capital city from all over the world with its international airport and the city is well commuted with bus and train.

If you want a unique stay in Stockholm, why not stay in a boat on the canal? Try out a night or two at STF af Chapman & Skeppsholmen , a 19th century tall ship where you can book a cabin. If you’re looking for high-end luxury, try Hotel Kungsträdgården .

Malmö is one of the top places to visit in Sweden with a modern vibe infused with history and one of the most popular day trips from Copenhagen . Make sure you visit Malmö Castle and the nearby Kungsparken, the park of the king, which is the oldest park in the city.

Among other things to do in Malmö , you should head to the oldest and biggest square, Stortorget, where Malmö’s Town Hall is situated, watched by a bronze statue of Karl X Gustav on horseback, who was Sweden’s king in the 17th century.

Also Lilla Torg is a charming little cobblestoned square surrounded by 1500-1600’s houses where you can have lunch or a coffee at any of the vibrant restaurants.

The most modern twist Malmö has become known for is the Turning Torso, a 190 meter tall residential building built in the early 2000’s. It became a famous landmark as the world’s first twisting skyscraper.

Finally, no Malmö itinerary is complete without a trip to the beach, it’s location is perfectly set on the coast, after all. Riberborgstranden stretches beautifully with great views of the Turning Torso.

It’s easy to get to Malmö with it’s proximity to Denmark, you can fly in there and travel from Copenhagen to Malmö by train in about half an hour.

For a budget stay, try HOTEL N Hostel Malmö City . If you want more comfort, try the high-end Havshotellet by the sea side.

The city that’s known for its amusement park, Liseberg, dating back to 1923, has so much more to offer. History buffs shouldn’t miss out on the Museum of Gothenburg where you can learn about history from the Vikings to modern history.

Other museums worth mentioning are the Natural History Museum, Aeromuseom, and of course the Volvo Museum. But there’s also a floating museum that consists of several heritage vessels that take you through military and civilian seafaring history.

If you’re lucky with the weather and want to head outside, go for a stroll in Trädgårdsföreningen, the prettiest park in the city by far. Another park worth a walk through is Slottsskogen. The botanical gardens in the city are also beautiful.

Worth adding to your Gothenburg itinerary is a boat trip to the 17th-century New Älvsborg Fortress. You can also see the 17th-century fortification, Skansen Kronan, once built to protect against the Danes.

Finally, take a boat trip through the canals to see the city from a different perspective and stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Haga neighborhood.

Gothenburg is well connected by plane, bus, and train.

Stay comfortably at Hotel Eggers , a boutique-style hotel set in a 19th-century building in the heart of the city center. If you’re on a lower budget, Le Mat B&B Göteborg City is a great option.

Ales Stenar

Recommended by Chelsey of Chelsey Explores

Ales Stenar (Ales’ Stones) is one of the best places to visit in Sweden. The 59 monolithic stones are set on hills above Kåseberga just east of Ystad in Skåne.

The Ales Stenar is 19 meters wide and 67 meters long with stones that are placed in the formation of a ship. Its believed that they originate from the early Iron Age (500-1,000 AD).

This is the largest preserved stone ship in the country and it’s often referred to as the Swedish Stonehenge. The sun rises and sets at specific points around the stones hence it’s believed they have used an astronomical calendar. The best time to visit the stones is during the spring or summer months.

The county of Skåne is known for its charming towns, sandy beaches, and more castles and cathedrals than any other region in Sweden. The best way to travel to Skåne is by plane to either Copenhagen or Malmö airport, then a 1-hour drive by car or bus.

While exploring Skåne, one of the best places to stay is in the 14 century, Häckeberga Castle . The castle was built in French Renaissance style between 1873–1877 on an island in the lake.

It remains one of the most beautiful castles in Sweden and the only one that allows hotel guests. Alternatively, you can eat there or enjoy the hiking trails.

Recommended by Emma of Emma’s Roadmap

Lund is a historical university city in the region Skåne, the south of Sweden. The city dates back to the year 1020 and attracts many university students from all over Sweden (and beyond) to one of the oldest universities in the country. If you’re visiting the south of Sweden, you simply cannot miss the historical city of Lund! 

There are many things to see and do in Lund, but the highlight of the city is without a doubt Museum Kulturen which teaches you about the history of Sweden through expositions of real ancient objects.

The museum even managed to transport houses and a church that are hundreds of years old to their outside exhibition so visitors can experience exactly how people used to live here centuries ago.

Other things you should consider visiting are Lunds Domkyrka (the main church) and its underground crypts which hold an interesting legend. Definitely also visit the botanical gardens of Lund, Lund University, Drotten Church ruins, Stadsparken, and the Museum of Sketches for Public Art.

If you do not have a car at your disposal, you can easily reach the city by train from any other city in the region and from the airport in Copenhagen, which has a direct train connection. The best way to visit Lund anyway is not by car but on foot!

Stay at the charming Lilla Hotellet , with cute rooms spreading over 5 1800’s houses.

Recommended by Karen of WorldWideWriter

Gotland is an island 230 km south of Stockholm. For a small place, there is a surprising amount to see, especially if you enjoy anything a bit unusual or quirky! It is also a great spot to get away from it all: outside of the main holiday season in July and August, the place is almost deserted.

Visby, the main town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, partly because it was historically a member of the Hanseatic League and partly because of its well-preserved walls and medieval center.

Elsewhere on the island, there are several “boat-shaped graves” and other burial sites from the Bronze Age in Gotland. You will also find stone labyrinths (both medieval and modern), ancient rune stones, and temporary fishing stations.

The latter is a very Swedish phenomenon: villages full of red-painted huts only intended to be inhabited for a few weeks during the year.

Gotland is a 40-minute flight from Stockholm. Alternatively, the ferry takes around 3 hours, leaving from either Stockholm or Oskarshamn.

There are several holiday rentals and AirBNBs around the island. Places to stay in Visby include luxury properties like the Clarion Hotel or – for the more budget-conscious – the Visby Fängelse , a hostel based in a converted prison. To make the most of the island you will need to hire a car.

Recommended by Jan of Leisurely Drives

Rättvik is a charming little town and a hidden gem located in the Dalarna region of Central Sweden on the shores of the lovely lake Siljan.

The best way to reach Rättvik is by car from Uppsala (2.5 hours) or Stockholm (3.5 hours). You can also get there by bus or train.

The main highlight of Rättvik is its beautiful lake Siljan and the impressive pier that is the longest in Scandinavia – 628 meters long. The pier extends quite a long way into the lake and ends on a pleasant island with trees and benches. This is the ideal place for long walks and a hit with photographers to capture the beautiful sunset from the jetty.

Rättvik also has an ancient 13th-century church and a pleasant waterfall – Styggforsen. There are some good trails and walks on the hills behind the church and at the waterfall area.

The city center has a delightful fountain and statues portraying the symbol of folk music.

There are several nice places to eat, and friendly people. Sodergardens Café Och on the pedestrian street has a good menu for lunch and snacks including salads and yummy desserts. There are plenty of bed-n- breakfast and Airbnbs along the lake shore for accommodation.

If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxed holiday for a day or two to get away from the crowded cities, then Rättvik is a great choice. Stay close to the beach at Hotell Rättvik .

Recommended by Marjut of The Smooth Escape

Ven is a tiny island that will charm you with its beautiful landscape, idyllic villages and tranquil beaches. Located in the Öresund Strait between Sweden and Denmark, it is an ideal destination for a day trip from Copenhagen , Malmö or Helsingborg in the summertime.

The best thing to do on Ven is to rent bikes and cycle along the island’s picturesque coastal trails. Since Ven is just 7 square kilometers in size, biking is the perfect way to explore the charming countryside and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere. 

As you make your way through the island, you’ll come across quaint farmhouses, old churches, artisan shops, and adorable cafes with sea views. If you’re lucky, you might even meet some alpacas grazing on the grassy hills on the eastern coast of Ven! The island also has an astronomy museum and even its own whiskey distillery where you can sample locally produced spirits.

In case you’d like to spend a night on Ven, there’s a handful of accommodation options to choose from, such as a few self-catered cottages, a four-star hotel, a traditional inn, a hostel, and also a camping site.

In order to get to Ven, you need to take a ferry from either Denmark or Sweden. On the Swedish side, the ferries depart from Landskrona, Helsingborg, or Råå, and on the Danish side from Helsingør, Copenhagen, or Rungsted.

Gammelstad Church Town

Recommended by Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Most people visit Swedish Lapland because of its nature, but there is history and culture too. One of the most interesting historical sights in northern Sweden is Gammelstad church town .

The small village is home to one of the largest medieval churches in the country surrounded by traditional wooden cottages. 

Gammelstad church town is a UNESCO World Heritage site because it’s also one of the best-preserved examples of church towns in Sweden. Church towns were quite important in the remote north.

To visit the church on Sundays people often had to travel a long way. As they could not return the same day, they built simple cottages to spend the night.

But it wasn’t all about the church. Church towns were once the center of social and cultural life in an area where people lived far apart from each other.

As people gathered on weekends and religious holidays they also exchanged the latest gossip, traded with each other, and even came to look for a suitable marriage partner.

In that sense, not much has changed in Gammelstad church town. The cottages are still private property and the owners still come to celebrate religious holidays.

They only recently got electricity. One of the cottages is now also open to visitors to get an idea of what they looked like inside.  

Gammelstad church town is also right next to the Gammelstadsviken Nature reserve, so after your visit, you could still go hiking in nature if you like.

It is best to visit Gammelstad church town as a day trip from nearby Luleå where you can find plenty of accommodation options and restaurants. Elite Stadshotellet Luleå is a great option.

Recommended by Raluca of Travel With a Spin

Kiruna is the northernmost Swedish city and part of the European Lapland. It evolved due to the local ore mines but is now one of the most popular bases for discovering the wonders of the north, and one of the best places to go in Sweden.

Winter or summer, Kiruna offers visitors the chance to discover the Sami way of life, try different sports and enjoy nature.

During summer, the temperatures can rise above 20°C. This is the best time for hiking, canoeing, and rafting. Kebnekaise, the highest peek in Sweden, is just 70km away from Kiruna and can easily be reached on a day trip.

Winters in the north, on the other hand, are cold and long.

However, this is not a reason to avoid it. There’s no better time to try snowboarding, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Winter nights in Lapland might be freezing, but they can also be illuminated by beautiful light shows. One can also take advantage of the Aurora Spa at Camp Ripan and try to spot the lights from a warm water pool.

Kiruna is also close to the first Ice Hotel in the world. Although part of it is rebuilt every winter, some rooms are now preserved using solar energy all year round.

If this isn’t enough,  Kiruna itself is worth a visit  as this city is actually on the move. As the ore mines grew, the authorities decided to move the buildings one by one, in order to save them from collapse. There’s even a museum explaining why and how this happens.

Recommended by Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

The charming village of Smögen, located along the west coast of Sweden , is best known for its row of colorful houses that line a wooden boardwalk.

The town, located about 1.5 hours north of Gothenburg, is a popular summer destination for those looking for relaxation and a fun atmosphere. There’s no doubt that Smögen makes one of the prettiest places in Sweden.

Although home to less than 1,500 residents, the population more than doubles in the summer, as tourists flock to the small island town for its serenity and beauty. 

Spend a day strolling along the picturesque wooden boardwalk, roaming through the streets, and wandering into the locally-owned shops.

Then have lunch or dinner at one of the seaside restaurants and gaze out at the fancy houseboats and yachts in the harbor as well as the fishing boats returning to the dock.

To escape the summer crowds along the boardwalk, go for a hike along the rocky coast where you’ll find plenty of open space and solitude.

Although summer is the most popular time to visit, if you go in the fall, you’ll have the quiet village and its famous boardwalk all to yourself!

You can easily see Smögen on a day trip from Gothenburg or from nearby Fjallbacka, which is another popular stop along Sweden’s West Coast.

Stay at the charming, family-owned guest house, Smögens Gästhem .

By Ela & Beata of Stunning Outdoors

Vålådalen  is a small settlement in a heart of a valley of the same name, in the Jamtland region, central Sweden.

The proximity of the city of Ostersund makes Vålådalen a popular destination, greatly enjoyed by nature lovers, walkers and other individuals seeking to re-connect with nature.

The area of Vålådalen offers a wide spectrum of hill, forest, and moorland walks in the summer, whereas in winter it transforms into a busy winter sports hub.

Some of the best local walking trails are Blanktsjarnsrundan and Ottfjallet.

The Vålådalen Nature Reserve and its forests offer tranquillity and fabulous opportunities for bird watchers, whereas wild swimming enthusiasts can enjoy a dip in a pristine lake Nulltjarnarna.

Moreover, the area features unique landmarks, and landscapes sculptured during the last Ice Age, including pyramids and pristine lakes (the most famous of them being the strictly protected Blanktsjarn.)

Getting to Vålådalen requires some planning; the nearest train station is located in Undersaker (almost 30km away), and the bus service is sparse.

The easiest way of getting to Vålådalen is driving, and the settlement is well prepared for tourist traffic with large car parks and inviting The Vålådalen Fjallstation (STF) – a mountain hotel offering a wide range of rooms and cabins and public saunas.

Recommended by Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels

Västerås is centrally located in Sweden and is easily accessible by road or rail, being just an hour northwest of Stockholm.

Västerås is one of the oldest cities in Sweden and the town offers a lot of historical sites from the Nordic Viking Age, and medieval churches and castles.

There are  lots of things to do in Västerås  and most attractions are within walking distance. Those a little further out of town can easily be reached by public transportation or by riding a bike or e-Scooter which can be easily rented within the city center.

Some of the highlights of a visit to Västerås are a stroll through the Kyrkbacken historic neighborhood which is centrally located within the town.

If you enjoy stepping back in time and learning the history of the area, Vallby Friluftsmuseum is also very enjoyable for both adults and children alike. While in the city center, a visit to the Västerås Cathedral shouldn’t be missed.

On the outskirts of town, there are many amazing things to see and do. There is Anundshög, Sweden’s largest Viking burial mound, and the Sala Silvergruva (silver mine). Skultuna Brass Foundry has close ties with the Swedish Royal Court as does Strömsholm Palace/Castle.

The Steam Hotel on the main harbor is the most popular hotel in town. And, as an added bonus, it’s located next to Kokpunkten Water Park offering adrenaline-pumping rides such as water slides for the kids, and an adult-only area with hot tubs, saunas, and a heated open-air outdoor pool.

Jukkasjärvi

Recommended by Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

If you are planning to explore Sweden via road trip , Jukkasjärvi would be a perfect destination to include. Located in Kiruna Municipality on the northside of this long country, it is home to 600 locals and the infamous Ice Hotel .

This iconic hotel will doubtless be the highlight of your visit, as it is the world’s first hotel to be made completely from ice. Experience what it feels like to sleep on a bed of ice, surrounded by ice walls, floors, and furniture.

While it will certainly be cold, the snowsuits and boots they provide are surprisingly warm, and most people find that they can easily fall asleep here.

The village itself is teeming with fir trees, adorable reindeer, and incredible glassy lakes. Make sure to drive through Marknadsvägen, the only road you can find here, and you will pass some traditional rustic homes and a stunning wooden church. This is the road that also connects the village with the E10 highway, which you can easily reach from other major towns.

You can also take the bus from Kiruna, which is just a short train ride away from Stockholm. Meanwhile, the nearby Kiruna airport has flights from both Stockholm Arlanda and Umeå Airports.

Reflections on these beautiful places in Sweden

With such a variety of beautiful places in Sweden, there is no wondering this Scandinavian country should be on your Europe bucket list!

The cities are charming, the nature is breathtaking, and the historical sites are just awesome. If you haven’t yet, make sure you book your flight to Sweden, and if you’re going on a road trip (which I highly recommend getting the most out of the country,) pre-book your rental car before it’s too late.

You can also read my complete road trip packing list here . And if you’re camping, read the following posts:

• Best pop-up tents for car camping
• Best tents for camping with dogs
• Best sustainable camping gear
• Best sustainable backpacks

before you travel to Sweden, you should also make yourself familiar with sustainable tourism so that you make sure you travel responsibly and leave no trace.

Happy travels!

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30 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abisko National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Örebro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drottningholm Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swedish Lapland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Vättern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smögen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gripsholm Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Siljan Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Göta Canal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luleå

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helsingborg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Stockholm Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

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

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

So, are you planning to visit Sweden soon?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning to visit Sweden? Check out these posts!

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

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

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe on her holidays or exploring different home decor ideas for her future house in the lush Finnish forest.

This blog curates the best of travel, interior design, minimalist fashion, DIY wedding hacks, and a bit of beauty. Its a safe space for everyone who have various interests!

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

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

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• Sweden Tours
• Sweden Travel Guide
• Where to Go in Sweden

Top 10 Places to Visit in Sweden

• ~ mins read

From the vibrant capital city of Stockholm, with its historic Gamla Stan and stunning archipelago, to the picturesque coastal town of Gothenburg, renowned for its seafood and scenic canals, there are countless captivating places to visit in Sweden. Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by the pristine beauty of Lapland, home to the spectacular Northern Lights and vast wilderness. Whether exploring the cosmopolitan cities or the serene natural wonders, a trip to Sweden promises a diverse and unforgettable travel experience. Here is our list of top 10 places to visit in Sweden.

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1. Stockholm

The capital city of Sweden is a wonderful blend of history, culture, and nature — a great place to start your Swedish holiday. Whether you want to stroll through the historic, cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan, explore world-class museums, or take a scenic boat tour through the breathtaking archipelago, Stockholm offers a diverse array of attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in Sweden. The city also has a great culinary scene, an excellent shopping neighborhood, and plenty of green spaces.

Highlights:

• Explore the stunning Gamls Stan, Stockholm’s old town, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful historic buildings, and charming squares. Make sure to explore the Royal Palace and Stortorget, the vibrant main square with its iconic red and gold houses.
• Visit the Vasa Museum to marvel at the well-preserved 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage, offering a fascinating insight into Sweden’s maritime history.
• Stroll through Djurgården, a beautiful island in central Stockholm, home to lush parks, historic buildings, and ABBA Museum, and Skansen.
• Take a boat tour of Stockholm’s archipelago, consisting of around 30,000 islands, to enjoy stunning views of the city’s waterfront, picturesque islands, and idyllic villages.
• Admire the panoramic views of Stockholm from the Ericsson Globe, the world’s largest spherical building, by taking a ride in the SkyView gondola to the top for breathtaking vistas of the cityscape and waterways.

Quick tip: Get a Stockholm Pass, which gives you free entry to many top museums like Vasa Museums, Skansen Open-Air Museum, etc. and attractions as well as free public transportation.

2. Gothenburg

Nestled on the west coast of Sweden, Gothenburg is known for its maritime history and for being the birthplace of Volvo. It is also one of the most sustainable cities in the world. At the heart of Gothenburg is the picturesque Haga district, famed for its cobblestone streets, cozy cafes and boutique shops. The city’s bustling Feskekorka fish market offers the freshest seafood, while the beautiful parks and canals provide serene relaxing spots. Gothenburg is also home to Lisberg, one of Europe’s top amusement parks, and the stunning Southern Archipelago, accessible by ferry.

• Wander through Haga, Gothenburg’s charming historic district, with its cobblestone streets, wooden houses, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes, perfect for experiencing the city’s world charm and vibrant atmosphere.
• Explore the Universeum, a fascinating science center with interactive exhibits, an indoor rainforest, and an ocean tank, providing an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.
• Stroll through the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s largest botanical gardens, featuring diverse plant collections, serene walking paths, and a beautiful rock garden.
• Take a scenic boat tour through Gothenburg’s picturesque canals and harbor, enjoying views of the city’s waterfront, historic buildings, and modern architecture, while learning about the city’s maritime heritage.

Quick tip:   Set aside at least half a day to explore Haga to fully experience its rich history and culture.

3. Swedish Lapland

Witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights under Sweden's winter sky, where long nights especially during winter create the perfect stage for unforgettable celestial memories. 

Swedish Lapland is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden. This enchanting area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and towering mountains. Traditional Sami villages offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage, while the Northern Lights provide a spectacular natural light show. In winter, you can enjoy the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi and thrilling activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Summer in Sweden brings the magic of the Midnight Sun, bathing the land in endless daylight, perfect for hiking and exploring.

• Embark on a thrilling husky sled ride through the pristine wilderness of Swedish Lapland, experiencing the exhilarating rush of gliding across snow-covered landscapes while being guided by expert mushers and their loyal sled dogs.
• Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Northern Lights illuminating the Arctic sky, creating unforgettable memories under the starry night, especially during winter in Sweden , from September to March, when long nights provide optimal viewing conditions for this celestial display.
• Explore the unique Sami culture and traditions by visiting traditional Sami villages, where you can learn about indigenous reindeer herding, taste Sami cuisine, and participate in cultural activities such as reindeer sledding and traditional storytelling.
• Stay in a cozy wilderness lodge or a traditional Sami tent, known as a lavvu , for an authentic Arctic experience.
• Venture into the Arctic wilderness on a guided snowmobile safari, traversing frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and rugged terrain, while discovering the breathtaking beauty and untamed wilderness of Swedish Lapland.

Quick tip: Book your Northern Lights tour well in advance, as places fill up quickly during the winter season.

4. Gota Canal

The Gota Canal isn’t just a waterway in Sweden; it’s a historic marvel weaving through stunning landscapes, charming villages, and captivating history. This iconic canal, stretching from Gothenburg on the west coast to Soderkoping on the east, offers travelers an unforgettable journey through Sweden’s heartland. Whether cruising its tranquil waters, cycling along its scenic towpaths, or exploring its fascinating locks, the Gota Canal promises adventure and discovery at every turn. Hands down, one of the top places to visit in Sweden.

• Cruise along the Gota Canal, an engineering marvel and Sweden’s largest construction project of the 19th century, aboard a historic canal boat or modern pleasure cruiser, taking in the views of stunning countryside and picturesque waterways.
• Explore charming canal-side towns and villages such as Söderköping and Töreboda. Here, you can stroll along cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks, and dine at local cafes, immersing yourself in the region's rich history and culture.
• Experience the unique locks of the Gota Canal, including the famous staircase locks at Berg. These locks raise or lower boats 18 meters, providing an unforgettable spectacle of engineering ingenuity and maritime heritage.
• Cycle or hike along the scenic towpaths that parallel the Gota Canal, offering panoramic views of tranquil lakes, lush forests, and rolling countryside.

Quick tip: Take a multi-day cruise along the entire canal instead of just short-day trips to fully appreciate the beauty of Gota Canal.

Uppsala, a charming city north of Stockholm, is steeped in culture and history. The city is home to Uppsala Cathedral, one of Scandinavia’s largest churches, boasting stunning Gothic architecture and intricate craftsmanship. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Gamla Uppsala, an ancient Viking settlement with burial mounds dating back to the Iron Age. Uppsala's blend of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and natural beauty offers a delightful experience for travelers seeking an authentic Swedish experience.

• Explore the historic city of Uppsala, home to Sweden’s oldest and most prestigious university. With its charming cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and beautiful parks, Uppsala offers a captivating blend of academic excellence and cultural heritage.
• Visit the impressive Uppsala Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest church known for its Gothic architecture, towering spires, and rich history. It is also the final resting place of Swedish kings and notable figures such as scientist Carl Linnaeus.
• Discover the ancient Viking burial mounds at Gamla Uppsala, a Unesco World Heritage Site, where you can explore centuries-old archaeological remains, including the legendary Royal Mounds and the fascinating Viking museum.
• Stroll through the lush botanical gardens of Uppsala University, one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens, featuring a diverse collection of plants worldwide, tranquil walking paths, and charming greenhouses.

Quick tip: Rent a bike to get around Uppsala easily and explore the university areas, parks, and surrounding countryside.

Known for its stunning coastline, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, Oland offers visitors a diverse range of experiences. Explore the ancient ruins of Borgholm Castle, dating back to the 12th century, or stroll along the beautiful beaches and coastal cliffs. Nature lovers can hike or bike through the island’s scenic landscapes, including the Unesco-listed Alvaret, a unique limestone plain teeming with rare flora and fauna.

• Explore the picturesque island of Öland, Sweden’s second-largest island, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rugged coastline, and rich cultural heritage.
• Take a tour of the Royal Domain of Solliden, the summer residence of the Swedish royal family, surrounded by beautiful gardens, parklands, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the sea.
• Discover the ancient Viking history of Öland at Eketorp Castle, a well-preserved ring fortress dating back to the Iron Age, where you can explore reconstructed Viking houses, artifacts, and immersive exhibitions.
• Stroll along the Alvaret, a unique limestone plain stretching across Öland’s southern coast, featuring rare flora and fauna, mysterious stone formations, and panoramic vistas.
• Wander through the charming seaside villages and coastal towns of Öland, with their colorful wooden houses, quaint harbors, and vibrant local culture. 

Quick tip: Time your visit to Oland for the annual Harvest Festival in late August or early September to experience the island’s rich agricultural heritage through harvest markets, folk performances, and traditional farming activities.

Known for its well-preserved city walls and cobblestone streets, Visby exudes Sweden’s historical charm. The heart of Visby's tourism is centered around the picturesque town square and the stunning St. Mary's Cathedral. Stroll along the narrow alleys lined with medieval houses, and be sure to visit during the annual Medieval Week when the town is illuminated with festivities and historical reenactments.

• Explore the medieval town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the island of Gotland. Travel back to the Hanseatic era as you tour the well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.
• Discover the enchanting Botanical Garden of Visby, where you can stroll through lush greenery, colorful flower beds, and ancient ruins — a peaceful oasis in the city's heart.
• Visit the impressive Visby Cathedral, also known as St. Mary's Cathedral, featuring stunning Gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
• Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Medieval Week in Visby, an annual festival featuring historical reenactments, medieval markets, and costumed parades.
• Admire the breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea from Visby’s cliffside promenades and coastal paths.

Quick tip: Stay within the medieval city walls for at least one night to soak in the magical atmosphere of the place.

8. Drottningholm Palace

This stunning royal residence, located on the island of Lovon, serves as the private home of the Swedish royal family. The main hub of Drottningholm’s tourism is centered around the beautiful palace gardens and the historic Drottningholm Court Theatre, which make it one of the best places to visit in Stockholm. Make it a point of visiting the palace when illuminated at night to admire the magical view of this architectural masterpiece.

• Stroll through the expansive Drottningholm Palace Gardens, inspired by French formal gardens, with meticulously landscaped lawns, ornate fountains, and a picturesque parterre.
• Visit the Drottningholm Court Theatre, one of the world’s best-preserved 18th-century theaters, where you can tour its exquisite auditorium's original stage machinery and learn about its rich history.
• Discover the Chinese Pavilion, an exotic 18th-century pleasure palace within the Drottningholm estate, adorned with intricate Chinese-inspired decor, lavish rooms, and beautiful surrounding gardens.
• Enjoy a leisurely boat ride from central Stockholm to Drottningholm Palace, cruising through scenic waterways, passing charming islands and waterfront homes.

Quick tip: Arrive early to explore the perfectly manicured gardens before they get crowded later in the day. 

Kalmar is a charming historical city with beautiful architecture. Located on the southeast coast of Sweden, it is renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance castle and picturesque old town. You can explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Kalmar Castle, and enjoy stunning views of the Baltic Sea. Kalmar offers a blend of rich history and scenic beauty, making it one of the top 10 places in Sweden.

• Explore the historic Kalmar Castle, a beautifully preserved Renaissance fortress with grand halls, dungeons, and fascinating exhibits, offering a glimpse into Sweden’s medieval and Renaissance history.
• Stroll through the charming streets of Kalmar’s Old Town, lined with colorful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings.
• Visit the Kalmar County Museum, home to the famous Kronan shipwreck exhibit, where you can learn about the region’s maritime history and see artifacts recovered from the sunken 17th-century warship.
• Relax at Kalmarsundsparken, a beautiful waterfront park offering stunning views of the Kalmar Strait, scenic walking paths, and areas for picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Discover the history of the Kalmar Union at the Kalmar Cathedral, a majestic Baroque church with impressive architecture, beautiful interiors, and an informative exhibition about the union that once united the Nordic countries.

Quick tip: Time your visit for one of Kalmar's lively annual events, such as the Midsummer celebrations in June, which feature folk dancing and music, or the Medieval Days festival in July, when the castle grounds transform into a medieval village. 

Most people visit Umea as a gateway to the stunning northern wilderness, but this vibrant city is much more than just a starting point. Known for its lively cultural scene and numerous museums, Umeå offers plenty of attractions for visitors. If you’re looking for a dynamic city with a rich history and modern amenities, Umeå is one of the unmissable places to visit in Sweden.

• Stroll along the picturesque Ume River, where you can enjoy scenic waterfront views, charming bridges, and riverside promenades. These are perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, or picnicking.
• Visit the Umeå Arts Campus, a creative hub housing several renowned cultural institutions, including the Umeå University School of Architecture and the Umeå Institute of Design, to explore cutting-edge exhibitions and artistic installations.
• Discover the fascinating exhibits at the Västerbottens Museum, showcasing the rich history, culture, and traditions of the Västerbotten region through interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
• Experience the natural beauty of Umeå by exploring nearby outdoor destinations such as the Umeå Folkpark, with its scenic walking trails and recreational activities, or taking a day trip to nearby national parks and nature reserves for hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventures.

Quick tip: Time your visit in late June to experience the Midsommar/Midsummer festivities in Umeå. This is one of the biggest celebrations of the year, where locals dress up in traditional costumes, dance around the maypole, and partake in herring meals and other customs. 

Need help planning a trip to Sweden?

If you plan a trip to Sweden, include these top destinations on your itinerary. Explore the medieval charm of Visby on Gotland Island, marvel at the stunning architecture of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Swedish Lapland. With so many of the best places to visit in Sweden, the hardest part is narrowing down your options!

If you are looking for a personalized travel experience, contact our travel expert for a customized trip to Sweden . Be sure to check out our guide on how many days to spend in Sweden and the best time to visit Sweden to help you plan a hassle-free journey.

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The Ultimate Scandinavia Guide: The Best Times & Places to Visit

Are you thinking about planning a trip to Scandinavia ? Made up of Sweden, Denmark and Norway, this region is a top destination whether you’re looking to experience the northern lights or visit the grand capital cities. 

This useful guide will help you figure out the best times to visit and the best places to see in Scandinavia. Get ready for a bucket-list worthy trip to the land of the Vikings, steep mountains, long fjords and majestic waterfalls.

Best time to visit Scandinavia

With four distinct seasons, Scandinavia has plenty to offer all year long. When is best to visit for you is personal and may depend on your pre-booked holidays, what you want to see and experience, or your preferred season.

Read below for a short-and-sweet guide to the best time to visit Scandinavia.

• During the summer months, you could take on a self-drive trip around Scandinavia or join a small guided tour  with a local guide
• Throughout the year, travel around Scandinavia independently via scenic trains and cruises journeys

1. Best time to visit Scandinavia for weather

Summer in Scandinavia, the months of July and August , is a great time to visit. At this time of year, you’re more likely to have pleasant and stable weather. Nature comes alive and locals and visitors alike can enjoy the great outdoors.

Another bonus of summer is the extended daylight hours. Take advantage of long days with more sightseeing and excursions.

The summer is also a good time for a road trip. Take the wheel, enjoy the warmer weather, go off the beaten track, and find your own corner of paradise.

• Browse these summer Scandinavia packages

2. Best time to visit Scandinavia for quieter travel

Scandinavia is very popular with travellers – for excellent reasons! But do you dream of a quiet holiday, to experience the natural wonders in peaceful reflection? Or to capture the perfect photos without too many distractions?

Travelling during in winter has many benefits that you may enjoy. One of which is experiencing the country at your own relaxed pace.

If you would like to take advantage of the fairer weather and quieter attractions, visit during the shoulder season in May or September .

3. Best time to visit Scandinavia to see the northern lights

While summer may be ideal to visit the Nordic countries , it is not the best time to see the northern lights.

To see the aurora borealis you need a clear, dark sky, which is difficult to find in the Arctic region. This includes Northern Norway, Svalbard, Finnish and Swedish Lapland where the sun doesn't fully set in summer.

For the best chances of dark skies and northern lights spotting, visit Scandinavia and especially its northern reaches between October and March.

• Check out Scandinavian northern lights tours

Best places to visit in Scandinavia

Encompassing Denmark, Norway and Sweden, this northern region of Europe has so much to offer. While planning a trip around Scandinavia, the only challenge you’ll have is to narrow down the places you’ll want to see.

Here are some suggestions to add to your Scandinavian itinerary: 

1. Oslo, Norway

Norway's capital, Oslo , is a must-see city blending nature with modern, urban vibes. Chances are you will fly into Oslo to visit Norway, making it a perfect first stop on your itinerary!

Head outdoors to admire the green hills and surrounding mountains of Oslo. Or enjoy the vibrant cultural life, visiting world-renowned museums and galleries, such as the Munch Museum or the Kon-Tiki Museum .

• Book one of these Norway holiday packages

2. Bergen, Norway

Bergen , Norway’s second largest city, is a great place to experience rich cultural and historical attractions, as well as seeing majestic natural wonders.

Nicknamed the "Gateway to the Fjords", you’ll find yourself at the doorstep of Norway’s’ longest fjord, Sognefjord , and the beautiful Hardangerfjord.

You can also spend hours walking around the streets of this vibrant city, exploring museums and its old town, the UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen .

• Look up city breaks in Scandinavia to explore Bergen as well as the capital cities
• Related: 7 Scandinavian cities you need to visit

3. Lofoten islands, Norway

Discover Norwegian natural beauty at its finest in the Lofoten islands .

As an archipelago within the Arctic Circle, this region boasts plenty of dramatic scenery with mighty mountains, craggy coastal lines, pristine waterways and quaint fishing villages. Svolvær, the main community of Lofoten, is a popular stop on the Norwegian Coastal Voyage.

This is an excellent place to visit for keen bird watchers in summer, and for those chasing the northern lights  in winter.

• Explore tours to the Lofoten islands

4. Flåm, Norway

The small town of Flåm is an ideal stop to relax during a bustling trip around Norway or Scandinavia.

Nestled at the heart of the western fjords, you’ll find a wealth of natural attractions a stone’s throw from this tiny village. Admire the mighty mountains, stunning fjords, and powerful waterfalls.

From here, you could hop on a fjord cruise, or aboard the famous Flåm Railway , known as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world!

• Experience the comfort of train travel and see the sights from your window with one of these Scandinavian tours by rail

5. Preikestolen, Norway

Conquer your fear of heights at the gravity-defying Preikestolen . Its name means "Pulpit Rock", given because of its odd shape resembling a preacher’s pulpit.

You could admire it from a boat tour along the fjords, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could hike up Pulpit Rock . It takes approximately 4 to 5 hours to make this 8-kilometre (5-mile) round trip.

At the top, enjoy the views over the Lysefjord from the 604-metre (nearly 2,000-feet) high cliff!

• Visit Scandinavia in the summer months, June , July or August , to go hiking, kayaking and more

6. Sognefjord, Norway

Prepare to be amazed by Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord. Also known as the "King of the Fjords", it's a breathtaking site with towering mountain peaks and tranquil waters.

If you take part in the legendary Norway in a Nutshell© tour , you will pass through Aurlandsfjord , an arm of the Sognefjord. This will allow you to really take in its vastness. Sognefjord itself also extends inland to Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen national parks.

7. Geirangerfjord & Nærøyfjord, Norway

Escape to an area of renowned natural beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage-protected Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are often referred to as the "world’s most stunning fjords" and you're in for a treat.

Spend a day cruising along their peaceful waters, looking up at the steep mountainsides, and spotting wildlife. You could also admire views of powerful waterfalls, such as the Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil .

• Sail along fjords, rugged coastlines and across the Baltic Sea on a cruise of Scandinavia

8. Stockholm, Sweden

Discover Stockholm, the enchanting capital of Sweden. Here you can spend your days discovering Swedish culture and history.

Wander through the cobblestone streets of the 13th-century old town (Gamla Stan). This area is dotted with interesting attractions such as the Nobel Museum and the Royal Palace.

You could also head out to Djurgården to visit the Vasa Museum, the most visited museum in Scandinavia. Or take a boat trip around the stunning Stockholm archipelago .

• Explore these Sweden holiday packages

9. Gothenburg, Sweden

While making your way through Sweden, don’t forget the western city of Gothenburg. With its chilled-out and trendy vibes, the country's second largest city is one of the best vacation spots in Sweden .

Here, you’ll discover neoclassical architecture along quaint streets and grand canals. You could dine at romantic gastropubs in Haga, ride rollercoasters at the 1920s Liseberg amusement park, and take a cruise along the Gothenburg archipelago.

• Check out these tours of Sweden to explore the country in more depth
• Related: Best group tours in Europe for solo travellers

10. Icehotel, Sweden

Sleep on ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL in Sweden – a quintessential Nordic experience!

During the day, you can try your hand at fun winter activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing or snowmobiling. By night, keep warm on a reindeer-skin-covered ice bed. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the dancing northern lights in the sky above. 

• Head north to have a  winter getaway in Lapland

11. Copenhagen, Denmark

Travel to the fairytale city of Copenhagen, where you’ll discover royal palaces, nods to writer Hans Christian Andersen, and canals lined with colourful houses.

You could easily fill several days visiting all of Copenhagen’s cultural and historical attractions. But make sure to visit the extravagant Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish Royal family, and Tivoli Gardens, the world's second oldest amusement park.

• Visit Copenhagen as part of a  Scandinavian triangle tour that also includes Stockholm and Oslo

12. Helsinki, Finland

While not technically part of Scandinavia, don’t forget Finland when travelling through the Nordic countries.

Cross the Baltic Sea to Helsinki and experience Finnish culture at its finest. Here, you’ll find modern buildings alongside ornamental, Art Nouveau architecture, which makes exploring the city a real treat.

We recommend checking out the Design District, Temppeliaukion (an incredible rock-carved church), and Market Square.

• Take an  independent tour of Scandinavia including Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway

13. Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland

Relive childhood fantasies by visiting the official hometown of Santa Claus in the capital of Finnish Lapland.

After you’ve met the jolly old fellow, make sure to visit the Arktikum museum. Or head into the great outdoors to experience the stunning beauty of the Arctic wilderness.

Rovaniemi is also a good spot to chase the northern lights during the winter months.

• Visit in  December , January , February or March to enjoy the winter wonderland

Planning your trip to Scandinavia

Booking a trip to Scandinavia couldn't be easier with Nordic Visitor. You can take your pick from the large selection of self-drive itineraries , train and cruise packages , and guided group tours .

Choose your favourite itinerary and we'll do the rest for you. We'll book your accommodation, in-country transportation and transfers, and activities. So all you have to do is fly here and enjoy your holiday! 

When you’re ready to start planning your Scandinavian getaway, get in touch with our travel consultants who can arrange it all for you. They can even customise your itinerary should you have any particular needs and interests.  We’re here to help you make the most of your time in Scandinavia!

  Camila grew up between the French Canadian and Chilean cultures, before moving to Scotland in 2012. When she’s not travelling or writing about travels, Camila loves to read, run, and puzzle. Her favourite destinations have been Reykjavík, Copenhagen, Estonia and Cape Town.  

Find Camila on LinkedIn .

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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Best of scandinavia classic, related posts, 7 scandinavian cities you need to visit.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Scandinavia

By Caitlin Morton

A few things come to mind when we think of Scandinavia: hygge , modern, minimalist furniture, avant garde dining , the Northern Lights. But above all, the countries of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark make us think of staggering natural and architectural beauty. (Some people include Iceland, Finland, and the Faroe Islands under the umbrella term of “Scandinavia," but we're sticking strictly to the Merriam-Webster definition here.) We're talking ancient castles , snowy forests, historic city centers, and countless fjords. Thanks to the rise in popularity of stopover programs with airlines like Norwegian Air and Icelandair, these northern stretches of Europe are more accessible than ever—so what are you waiting for? To inspire your next trip, here are 19 of the most beautiful places in Scandinavia.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Frederiksborg Castle, Hillerød

Built in the early 17th century, this stunning Renaissance castle sits on three lake islets in Hillerød, just north of Copenhagen —but it feels like an entirely different world. The castle complex is known for its exquisite gardens and for housing the Danish Museum of National History.

Located on the Jutland Peninsula, Aarhus was named both the European Region of Gastronomy and European Capital of Culture for 2017. Denmark's second-largest city has three Michelin-starred restaurants and landmarks like the ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum art museum, which sports an iconic rainbow walkway.

Nimb Hotel, Copenhagen

Walking into Tivoli Gardens already feels like stepping inside a fairytale—a feeling that grows exponentially once you stumble upon the palatial Nimb Hotel . Built as a castle in 1909, this hotel manages to preserve its grand Moorish past (see: the mosaic-clad pool and Turkish hammam) while embracing modern-day Scandinavian style, complete with clean decor and bath products all made in Denmark.

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Madison Flager

Ramsey Qubein

Elissaveta M. Brandon

Nyhavn, Copenhagen

This 17th-century harbor with rows of colorful buildings is easily the most iconic site in all of Copenhagen. Lined with wooden ships, modern boats, and the aforementioned Crayola-colored townhouses, the spot is a must-see, as evidenced by the constant buzz of locals and visitors alike.

These white chalk cliffs stretch for more than three miles along the eastern coast of Møn, a Danish island in the Baltic Sea. The cliffs and surrounding areas attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, who also come to see rare orchids and nesting peregrine falcons, the world's fastest animal.

Dating back 1,307 years, Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark—and in all of Scandinavia. The city was established in the early eighth century, and while you can't find any structures that ancient around today, the picturesque cathedrals and half-timbered houses on cobblestone streets are well worth a visit.

Atlantic Ocean Road

Often considered one of the world's best road trips , driving the Atlantic Ocean Road on Norway's western coast is almost like signing up for an amusement park ride, complete with roller coaster dips and eight thrilling bridges. Ease up on the gas a little to enjoy your beautiful surroundings—you might even spot seals and whales swimming in the adjacent ocean.

The Arctic Hideaway

While it's becoming increasingly hard to go completely off the grid these days, Norway has you covered with The Arctic Hideaway , a hotel located on its own island (Fordypningsrommet) above the Arctic Circle. The sleek accommodations and gorgeous setting make the island one seriously dreamy vacation spot, bookable on Airbnb. The cabins' floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the Northern Lights , letting you cross the activity off your bucket list while sitting indoors under a warm blanket.

Geirangerfjord

Situated in southwestern Norway, the UNESCO-recognized Geirangerfjord in southwestern Norway is among the most scenic fjords anywhere in the world. Its beautiful landscape features steep, 2,000-foot rock walls, dense forests, and numerous waterfalls. You can get the best views from the deck of a cruise ship, but another great option is to drive the Geiranger-to-Trollstigen route, stopping overnight at the gorgeous Juvet Landscape Hotel .

No trip to Norway is complete without a stop in Bergen, the country's second-most populated town and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe . The postcard-perfect town is known for its scenic harbor, colorful rows of wooden houses, and surrounding mountain range (known as the Seven Mountains).

Preikestolen

Easily one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) is a rock platform located nearly 2,000 feet above the surrounding fjord. Serving as a sort of natural observation deck, the landmark lets hikers take in unencumbered views of the fjord's vertical cliffs and granite formations. Just be sure to visit sooner than later—geologists say the platform could be at risk of collapsing .

While much of Norway is all about the picturesque coastal towns and stunning natural sites, the capital city of Oslo stands out with its sleek skyline. Dine at the Mathallen Oslo food hall, view contemporary artwork at the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art, and explore its iconic Scandinavian architecture via bike —by far one of the best ways to tour the city.

Most Pinterest or Instagram users have seen a photo of Trolltunga (Troll's Tongue), Norway's undeniable social media darling. The protruding rock sits about 2,300 feet above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, tempting travelers to inch out to the edge to snap a photo.

Gamla Stan, Stockholm

Stockholm is built for walking and biking, and there's no better place for a leisurely stroll than Gamla Stan, the historic center of the city. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with cozy boutiques and restaurants, and you can see Stockholm's 13th-century roots throughout the cathedrals and old merchant houses.

Arctic Bath Hotel

The Arctic Bath Hotel made a splash when it opened in early 2019, thanks in large part to the fact that it floats on the Lule River in Swedish Lapland . The main building's design draws inspiration from the woods, with a criss-crossed log exterior and paneled wood interiors, and the theme is further emphasized among the 12 cabins lining the river. Take a plunge in the open-air Arctic pool, then immediately warm up in one of the adjacent saunas or with a cup of mulled wine in the restaurant.

Abisko National Park

Home to Scandinavia's largest lake, Abisko is also known for its flowering Abiskodalen valley, rushing rapids, and accessible nature trails. The park, established in 1909, is considered one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights , thanks to its clear weather and coordinates.

Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago is the largest archipelago in Sweden, with tens of thousands of tiny islands stretching some 40 miles off of Stockholm, and a popular vacation spot for locals during the summer holidays. The best way to see the islands is by hopping on a ferry in Stockholm; hitch a ride to admire all the red wooden holiday homes, and enjoy some fishing or foraging on the shores.

Icehotel, Jukkasjärvi

Located in Jukkasjärvi (population: 600) in far northern Sweden, the aptly named Icehotel originally opened in 1992 as little more than a glorified igloo and has since become a year-round, 20-suite hotel with an art gallery and bar.

Visby, the only town on the island of Gotland, was once a major Viking trading settlement. Today, it's a walled town with UNESCO World Heritage honors. Take a walking tour of the city, making time to stop and learn about the island's history at the Gotland Museum. Whatever you do, don't miss trying a saffranspannkaka (or three): this Gotland specialty, a saffron pancake topped with fresh cream and salmonberries, dates back to the 18th century.

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Discover why Sweden is the perfect destination for solo travellers

Sweden's bustling cities, progressive culture, serene landscapes and welcoming people make it the ideal destination for solo travellers. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in vibrant urban life, delve into rich cultural experiences, or explore the countryside’s natural beauty, Sweden offers it all.

Solo travel has become an increasingly popular trend, especially in the wake of the pandemic. One compelling reason for travelling alone is the opportunity to focus on self-care, self-love, and personal growth – without adjusting your itinerary to accommodate someone else's wishes. It is all about you.

For those seeking the perfect solo travel destination, Sweden stands out as an exceptional choice. And here’s why.

A solo traveller's paradise

Sweden has a well-developed and efficient transportation system, making it easy to navigate the country independently. The extensive network of buses and trains, well-maintained roads, and efficient domestic flights ensure seamless travel throughout the nation. Public transportation is reliable, comprehensive, and user-friendly. So, whether exploring the vibrant cities or the tranquil countryside, getting around Sweden as a solo traveller is a breeze.

Also, English is widely spoken, significantly reducing the language barrier for international visitors. And there are plenty of accommodation options. If you can be flexible with your travel dates, keep in mind that the price for a hotel night is often the lowest at the beginning of the week. Another idea is to consider business hotels that usually offer advantageous discounts during holidays.

Djurgården is a part of the Royal National Citypark also known as The Ecopark. It is the first national city park in the world and it includes 27 km2 of nature and cultural values

Photo : Yirui Aries/imagebank.sweden.se

Donsö, Gothenburg archipelago

Photo : Steampipe Production Studio/Mediabank Göteborg & Co

Western Harbour and Turning Torso, Malmö

Photo : Werner Nystrand

Outdoor fika

Photo : Tina Stafrén/imagebank.sweden.se

Yoga by the lake

Photo : Alexander Hall/imagebank.sweden.se

Urban adventures

Sweden's major cities – Stockholm , Gothenburg , and Malmö – feature excellent infrastructure and a wealth of attractions. There's something for every interest, from historical sites and museums to vibrant cultural scenes and culinary delights.

Guided tours : Enhance your experience by joining a guided tour. Whether a walking tour through the historic districts or a themed tour focusing on local art and cuisine, you'll gain deeper insights into Swedish culture and history.

Sightseeing buses and boats : Hop on a sightseeing bus or boat to cover more ground and see the city's highlights comfortably and efficiently.

Archipelago adventures: Use your SL card to island-hop through the stunning Stockholm archipelago. Each island offers unique landscapes and quaint villages, perfect for day trips or leisurely explorations. In Gothenburg, you can also navigate the islands by public transportation.

Museums: If you visit Stockholm, spend a day visiting world-class museums like the Vasa Museum or the Moderna Museet . The Gothenburg Museum of Art is a must, and in Malmö, swing by Malmö Konsthall .

Fika: Don't miss out on the Swedish tradition of fika , a coffee break accompanied by sweet treats like cinnamon buns. It's a perfect way to relax and people-watch.

Embrace wellness and learning

Focus on personal growth and give yourself some "you-time." Sweden offers numerous opportunities for solo travellers to engage in wellness and learning activities:

Yoga and fitness: Join a yoga retreat or fitness camp to rejuvenate your body and mind. Studies show that one of the top reasons for travelling alone is the desire for a journey centred on self-care and personal well-being.

Mindfulness: Consider a silent retreat an opportunity to escape everyday noise and distractions and embrace a period of silence and introspection. The meditative practice of forest bathing has become so popular in Sweden that ' skogsbad ' has even made its way into the official Swedish dictionary.

Educational courses: Enroll in short courses or workshops on various topics, from Swedish cooking to traditional crafts.

Arctic bath, Harads

Experience unique accommodations on land and water at Arctic Bath in Harads. Enjoy a delicious meal at the restaurant, take a dip in Lule river or relax in the floating sauna.

Photo : Arctic Bath

Ystad Saltjöbad, pool

Photo : ESS Group

Photo : Carl-Johan Utsi/imagebank.sweden.se

Hiking in Idre, Dalarna

Photo : Alexander Neimert/Idre Fjäll

Biking in Orsa Grönklitt, Dalarna

Photo : Grönklittsgruppen

Pride festival

Photo : LANDEROS/Visit Sweden

A spa day just for you

Sweden is renowned for its spa culture , offering a range of luxurious and serene experiences perfect for solo travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The iconic Swedish sauna experience, often followed by a refreshing dip in a cold pool or lake, is a must-try for any visitor.

Arctic Bath, Harads

For a high-end northern retreat, choose Arctic Bath in Harads. The spa offers three saunas, two outdoor jacuzzis, and a range of sumptuous spa treatments. There’s also an open-air cold bath.

Yasuragi, Nacka

For an exceptional spa experience, visit Yasuragi in Stockholm. Inspired by Japanese bathing culture, it offers serenity, beauty and harmony with outdoor hot springs, indoor pools and saunas.

The Spa at Hotel Tylösand, Halmstad

The Spa at Hotel Tylösand has won multiple prizes for its innovative approach, which includes biohacking treatments using lasers and infrared light. These treatments are designed to aid wellness.

Ystad Saltsjöbad, Ystad

Ystad Saltsjöbad is a coastal spa with a tropical rainforest theme. This lush and steamy retreat offers opulent spa treatments from around the world.

Explore the great outdoors

For those who prefer outdoor adventures, Sweden provides various options for solo travellers.

Hiking : Sweden's mountain regions feature fantastic trails of varying difficulty levels. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, you'll find a trail that suits your pace. The well-marked paths and overnight cabins ensure safety and comfort.

Biking : Biking is an excellent option, thanks to the country's extensive network of well-maintained cycling routes that traverse urban and scenic landscapes. Numerous bike rental services are available.

The Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten): The Swedish concept of 'Allemansrätten ', allows you to roam freely across the countryside. This unique right encourages solo adventurers to independently explore forests, meadows, and coastlines, fostering a deep connection with nature.

Safety first

One key concern for solo travellers is safety; Sweden excels in this area. Consistently ranking among the world's happiest countries, Sweden boasts high scores in quality-of-life indicators like affordability and security. The welcoming and helpful residents, well-maintained public spaces, and efficient public services create a secure environment for travellers.

Additionally, Sweden is at the forefront of progressive values, making it a safe destination for the LGBTQI community and women travelling alone. You can feel secure regardless of your sex, gender identity, or age.

So, discover the magic of solo travel in Sweden, where every journey is enriched with culture, nature, and the warmth of its people. Join the ranks of solo travellers who have found their perfect destination in this Scandinavian gem.

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Maps of Sweden

Sweden, a Nordic nation in Northern Europe, covers an area of 450,295 sq. km. 

The topography of the country is largely shaped by ice. During the last Ice Age, much of Sweden was covered by a thick layer of ice. By 6,000 BC, when that ice finally retreated ( or melted ) it left in its wake a deeply-indented coastline ( in the south ) with many islands, and innumerable lakes, rivers and streams spread across the entire country.

As observed on the physical map of Sweden, to the north ( above the Arctic Circle ) Sweden is rugged with snow-covered mountains and thick forests. Central Sweden is dominated by lower mountains in the west that give way to heavily forested hills and ridges, dozens and dozens of rivers and an estimated 101,000 lakes. In the south, large lakes (some linked by canals) and widely cultivated plains stretch across the land.

Sweden's border with Norway is covered by the Scandinavian Mountains, or in Swedish, the Kolen ( or Kjolen ) Mountains. These are relatively low-level mountains, as Sweden's highest point, Kebnekaise, stands at just 2,111 meters ( about 7,000 ft. ) It has been marked on the map by a yellow upright triangle.

The country has a 3,218 km (2,000 mi) long coastline to the east. Sweden's coastal areas include several small islands and reefs, especially in the east and southwest. Directly south of Stockholm ( a city of islands ) are Gotland and Oland, Sweden's largest islands. White sandy beaches are common along the southern coastline.

Significant lakes include Siljan, Storsjom, Varern and Vattern, and with few exceptions, the balance of Sweden's lakes are on the small side.

Sweden's largest rivers include the Angerman, Eman, Indal, Lagan, Ljusnan, Lule, Osterdal, Skellefte, Storuman, Torne and Ume. 

The lowest point in the country is Kristianstad at −2.41 m (−7.9 ft). It has been marked on the map by an inverted triangle.

Counties of Sweden Map

Sweden (officially, the Kingdom of Sweden) is divided into 21 counties ( Ian ) and 290 municipalities ( kommuner ).  In alphabetical order, these counties are: Blekinge, Dalarna, Gavleborg, Gotland, Halland, Jamtland, Jonkoping, Kalmar, Kronoberg, Norrbotten, Orebro, Ostergotland, Skane, Sodermanland, Stockholm, Uppsala, Varmland, Vasterbotten, Vasternorrland, Vastmanland and Vastra Gotaland. The municipalities are further divided into 2512 parishes ( forsamlinger ).

With an area of 450,295 sq. km, Sweden is the largest country in Northern Europe. It is also the 5 th largest country in Europe and the 3 rd largest country in EU. Located on the south-central east coast of Sweden is, Stockholm – the capital, the largest and the most populous city of Sweden. Stockholm is the cultural, administrative and economic center of Sweden. Stockholm is also Sweden’s financial capital. The city’s location establishes it as one of the world’s most beautiful and spectacular cities. On the west coast of Sweden is Gothenburg – the 2 nd largest city in Sweden.

Where is Sweden?

Sweden is a Northern European country located on the Scandinavian Peninsula. It is situated both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth.  Sweden is bordered by 3 countries: by Finland in the east; by Norway in the north and west; by Denmark in the southwest (via a bridge-tunnel through Oresund Strait). It is bounded by the Gulf of Bothnia and the Baltic Sea in the east and south; and by the Skagerrak and Kattegat straits in the southwest. Sweden shares its maritime borders with Germany, Denmark, Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Sweden Bordering Countries : Finland .

Regional Maps : Map of Europe

Outline Map of Sweden

The above map represents Sweden, a European country located in the Scandinavian Peninsula. The above map can be downloaded, printed, and used for educational purpose like map-pointing activities or coloring.

The above map represents Sweden, a European country located in the Scandinavian Peninsula.

This page was last updated on February 24, 2021

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LIST: Museums to include in your itinerary when you visit Iloilo

By Melanie Uson Published Jun 04, 2024 2:11 pm

For history and art lovers, visiting museums is one way to explore cultures and appreciate fine art. But museums also offer something even for casual visitors and tourists, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the places they visit.

Aside from its food , Iloilo City boasts a rich cultural heritage, and it is kept alive through museums. In just a 30-minute drive, you will see numerous museums and ancestral houses being preserved to their original glory, staying true to its tag, "where the past is always present."

If you’re looking for activities when you visit the City of Love, here are some museums you can go to without spending too much money and time as these are just five to 20 minutes away from each other. 

Adoro Gallery-Museum

Melanie Uson / PhilSTAR L!fe

One of the private galleries you can go to is the Adoro Gallery-Museum at Iloilo Prime Estates which houses the collection of Ed Valencia. It had its first two exhibits dubbed Dagyaw which was showcased in December, and the most recently Redux which showcased the artworks of 40 local artists. 

It is not yet open to the public, but they can accommodate small group visitations. Check out their Facebook page for inquiries.

Museo Iloilo  

Built in 1971, Museo Iloilo is the first government-sponsored museum outside Metro Manila. Albeit small, it showcases Iloilo’s heroes, heritage, culture, religious artifacts, and local ancestors. The admission fee is P50 for adults and P20 for students. Seniors and people with disabilities can visit the museum for free. 

Museo Iloilo is located at Iloilo Provincial Capitol Complex, Bonifacio Drive, Barangay President Roxas, Iloilo City Proper. It is open every Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

National Museum Western Visayas  

Originally the Iloilo Rehabilitation Center and provincial jail, the 113-year-old building designed by Architect William Parson was converted to the National Museum Western Visayas . It showcases the region’s historic past, including the textiles, artifacts like the Oton Gold Death Mask, artworks, and more. 

In 2016, it was declared an Important Cultural Property (ICP) by the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP).

National Museum Western Visayas is located at Bonifacio Drive, City Proper, Iloilo City. It is open every Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entrance is free.  

Museum of Philippine Economic History  

Built in 1905, the Museum of Philippine Economic History tells the economic history of the Philippines, particularly the Panay Island and its sugar production. It houses the Ynchausti y Compañia, a major company in the 1890s that primarily produced liquor, sugar, abaca, and more. The building was restored by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2018. It has 13 galleries showcasing the country’s history in trade and commerce, including weaving and farming. 

The Museum of Philippine Economic History is located at JM Basa St. cor. Ortiz St. Iloilo City. It is open from Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

JBLFMU Maritime Museum  

First used as an archive in the 1990s, the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) opened its own maritime museum to the public, taking inspiration from its founder, master mariner Capt. Juan Lacson. 

It features artifacts such as equipment and navigational tools that date back to the Ming and Sung dynasties. It also showcases documents, porcelain, and jars that were authenticated by the National Museum and registered in the National Library. 

JBLFMU Maritime Museum is located in Marcelo H. del Pilar St., Molo, Iloilo City. It is open every Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.    

UPV Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage  

Nestled in the main building of the University of the Philippines Visayas, the UPV Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage features seven galleries that showcase Hiligaynon art in paintings, sculptures, printing, textiles, and intangible cultural heritage.

It also houses the galleries of ceramist Nelfa Querubin and national artist Jose Joya. 

UPV Museum of Art and Cultural Heritage is located along Ybiernas St. It is open every Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Casa Gamboa  

Casa Gamboa was built to pay tribute to Patrocinio Gamboa, also known as “Tia Patron,” one of the first revolutionaries in Panay Island to battle against Spain, and a founder of the Comite Central Revolucionario Visayas. 

One of her notable contributions was tending to wounded and sick soldiers during the war, preparing their food, and carrying the replica of the Philippine flag for the inauguration of the revolutionary government during the “Cry of Santa Barbara” event in Iloilo. 

Apart from showcasing important artifacts from the event, you may also dine in their cafe and buy famous Iloilo pasalubong and souvenirs.

Casa Gamboa is located at the corner of Commission Civil and Jayme Streets in Benedicto, Jaro. It is open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  

Museum of Philippine Maritime History  

Newly opened to the public in 2023, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) refurbished the city’s old Customs House and converted it to the Museum of Philippine Maritime History. 

It features the country’s maritime history from ancient times to the present. It also houses artifacts and replicas of maps, ship models, instruments, and more. 

Museum of Philippine Maritime History is located at Muelle Loney Street, corner of Aduana Street in the city proper. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.  

The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA)

Spoliarium by Julie Lluch | Melanie Uson / PhilSTAR L!fe

Territorial dispute by Sid Natividad | Melanie Uson / PhilSTAR L!fe

The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) is the first museum in Visayas that focuses on contemporary art. The three-story museum has galleries, namely the Hulot Exhibit, The Gallery, Adoracion Valencia Gallery, and The Box, featuring artworks from local and international artists. 

The entrance fee is P150 for adults, P100 for students, and P120 for seniors and persons with disabilities.  

The Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art is located at Casa de Emperador, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.  

It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.   

Brandy Museum  

Built as the first of its kind in the Philippines, the Brandy Museum showcases Spanish brandy's rich heritage, dating back to the 1730s. This interactive museum brings visitors into a replica of a Spanish bodega, showcasing informative displays about the craft of distilling liquor.  

Brandy Museum is at Casa de Emperador, Iloilo Business Park, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free.  

Other museums  

Another museum you can visit is Camiña Balay nga Bato in Arevalo, a 162-year-old heritage house famous for its pancit molo. Some of their must-tries are chicken binakol and chocolate de batirol with ugoy-ugoy. 

And lastly, there's the Agatona 1927 , a cafe and living museum near the Jaro Cathedral. This heritage house features a collection of religious items and artifacts owned by the Jalandoni-Montinola family. 

TAGS: Museums iloilo Iloilo City ILOMOCA museo iloilo adoro art gallery national museum western visayas casa gamboa brandy museum Museum of Philippine Maritime History

Melanie Uson

Melanie Uson is a content producer and a fur mom. When she’s not drowning in deadlines, she is most likely watching sitcoms, crocheting, or thrift-flipping clothes.