Sweden

Sweden: general info for travelers

Sweden is a country located in northern Europe with a population of around 10 million people. It is known for its beautiful nature, including forests, lakes, and the archipelago. It has a high standard of living, advanced economy, and industrialized cities. The official language is Swedish, but many Swedes speak English fluently. The capital city is Stockholm, which is also a popular tourist destination. Sweden has a rich cultural heritage, with history dating back to the Viking Age, and has given rise to famous names such as Abba, Ingmar Bergman, and Zlatan Ibrahimović.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Sweden, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Sweden: places to visit

Here are the main places to visit in Sweden and their descriptions: 1. Stockholm - The capital city of Sweden, this beautiful and vibrant city is built on 14 small islands and offers a mix of modern and medieval architecture. It has numerous museums, restaurants, and shops to explore.
2. Gothenburg - Known as the “second city” of Sweden, Gothenburg is a major port city located on the west coast of Sweden. It offers beautiful scenery, a lively arts scene, and a vibrant nightlife.
3. Malmo - This vibrant city in southern Sweden is known for its multicultural vibe and its mix of old and new architecture. It offers a range of museums, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year.
4. Lund - A picturesque university town located in the south of Sweden, Lund is known for its beautiful cathedral and medieval architecture. It is also home to several museums and a botanical garden.
5. Uppsala - Located about an hour north of Stockholm, Uppsala is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to several museums, including the famous Gustavianum Museum, as well as a medieval cathedral.
6. The Ice Hotel - This unique hotel, located in Jukkasjärvi, is built entirely out of ice and snow. It is rebuilt each year and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for visitors who want to sleep in a hotel made entirely of ice! 7. The Vasa Museum - Located in Stockholm, this museum is home to the Vasa ship, which sank in the 17th century and was recovered more than 300 years later. Visitors can explore the massive warship and learn about life at sea during this time period.
8. Abisko National Park - This park, located in the far north of Sweden, offers spectacular views of the Northern Lights and is home to a variety of hiking trails and wildlife.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Sweden! Let me know if you have any questions.
There is more to see and do in Sweden: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Sweden: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Sweden, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Sweden experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year - spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The weather can vary significantly, depending on the season and the location within the country. In general, Sweden is warmest from June to August, making it the most popular time to go there for a holiday. Temperatures during this time can range from 20 to 30°C in the southern parts of the country. During spring (March to May), the weather is milder, with temperatures ranging between 0 to 15°C. The days are longer and brighter, with beautiful blossoming flowers all around. Autumn (September to November) in Sweden experiences cooler temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C. The foliage undergoes a dramatic change and the landscape transforms into hues of yellows, oranges, and reds. Lastly, during winter (December to February), temperatures can range from -10 to 0°C. The days are shorter and the landscape temporarily turns into a magical winter wonderland. Winter sports such as skiing are popular during this time.
In summary, the best time to go to Sweden on holiday depends on what you plan to do there. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, it's best to visit in summer months. However, if you are looking for a unique winter experience, you can visit between December to February.

Sweden: activities and what to do

Sweden offers a wide variety of activities and sports to do on holiday. Here are some popular options: 1. Hiking: Sweden has beautiful scenery with numerous hiking trails that you can explore, such as the Kungsleden trail in the northern part of the country.
2. Kayaking and canoeing: With thousands of lakes and rivers, Sweden is a great place for kayaking and canoeing.
3. Skiing and snowboarding: Sweden has some excellent ski resorts, such as Are and Sälen, which offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels.
4. Wildlife watching: Sweden has many opportunities for wildlife watching, such as elk safaris in the forests of Varmland and bear watching in the region of Dalarna.
5. Cycling: Sweden has a well-organized cycling network, with plenty of cycle lanes and paths to explore. 6. Water sports: Sweden's lakes and beaches offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sailing.
7. Fishing: Sweden is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, where you can try your luck for species such as pike, trout, and salmon. These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports available in Sweden.

Sweden: few words on history and culture

Sweden has a rich and unique history and culture that dates back to the Viking Age and beyond. Throughout its history, Sweden has been known for its strong tradition of innovation, creativity, and social equality.
Some of the notable cultural landmarks of Sweden include: 1. The Viking Age - Sweden has a long and storied history of Viking settlements and Viking mythology, which still has a strong influence on the country's culture and identity today.
2. Midsummer- The most important holiday in Sweden is Midsummer, which takes place on the longest day of the year. It is a time of celebration with family and friends where traditional Swedish food is eaten and special songs are sung around the Midsummer pole.
3. Art and Design - Swedish design is known for its simplicity, functionality, and beauty. Many famous designers and artists come from Sweden, including Carl Larsson, Anders Zorn, and Astrid Lindgren.
4. Nobel Prize - The Nobel Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the world, was founded by Alfred Nobel, a Swedish chemist and inventor. The prize is awarded annually in five different categories - Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Literature, and Peace.
Overall, Sweden's rich cultural heritage and history make it a fascinating destination to explore for travelers seeking to learn more about the country's unique past and present.

Sweden: how to move around on holiday

There are various means of transport to reach and visit Sweden, depending on the country you are traveling from. Some of the best options include: 1. Flights: Sweden has several international airports, including Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, and Malmö Airport, among others. There are direct flights to these airports from many major international cities.
2. Train: Sweden has an extensive rail network operated by the national train company, SJ. Trains are efficient, reliable, and comfortable. They connect most major cities, and it's also possible to take a train from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Malmö, Sweden, via the famous Øresund Bridge.
3. Bus: Bus travel is a cost-effective option for traveling in and around Sweden, and there are numerous operators providing services to various destinations. Flixbus and Nettbuss are among the most popular operators.
4. Car: Driving can be a great way to explore Sweden's scenic countryside and remote areas. The road network is well-maintained, and highways are toll-free. However, keep in mind that driving in the winter months can be challenging due to snow and ice.
5. Ferry: If you're traveling from neighboring countries such as Finland, Estonia, or Latvia, taking a ferry to Sweden can be a convenient and enjoyable option. Several companies offer regular ferry services to ports in the Stockholm archipelago and other coastal cities. To hire a car to visit Sweden, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Sweden: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Sweden with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical foods of Sweden: 1. Swedish Meatballs: These are probably the most famous Swedish dish. They are made from ground beef and pork, mixed with breadcrumbs, milk, and onions. They are usually served with a creamy brown gravy and lingonberry jam.
2. Gravlax: This is a type of cured salmon that is often served as an appetizer. The salmon is cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and dill, and then sliced thinly and served with a mustard sauce or a dill sauce.
3. Raggmunk: This is a Swedish potato pancake that is made by grating potatoes and mixing them with flour, eggs, and milk. The pancakes are usually served with bacon and lingonberry jam.
4. Smörgåsbord: This is a Swedish buffet-style meal that features a variety of cold and hot dishes. It typically includes items like pickled herring, cold cuts, cheeses, salads, and bread.
5. Pea Soup and Pancakes: This is a traditional Thursday dish in Sweden. The soup is made with yellow peas and served with thin pancakes and lingonberry jam.
6. Lussekatter: These are saffron buns that are traditionally served on St. Lucia’s Day, a holiday in Sweden that celebrates the winter solstice. They are shaped like an “S” and often decorated with raisins.
These are just a few examples of typical Swedish foods. Swedish cuisine is largely influenced by the country's geography and climate, and many dishes feature ingredients like fish, potatoes, and berries.

Sweden: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Sweden is generally considered to be an expensive country for tourists due to high prices of accommodation, transportation, and food. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to have an enjoyable trip to Sweden without overspending. Some tips to save money while travelling in Sweden include staying in hostels or budget hotels, using public transportation instead of taxis, and eating at local cafes and restaurants rather than expensive tourist spots. Additionally, visiting in the shoulder season (late spring or early autumn) can also help to save money on accommodations and transportation costs.

Sweden: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Sweden, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some suggestions: 1. Online Booking Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia offer a range of options for hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. These platforms often have reviews and ratings to help you choose accommodations based on other travelers' experiences.
2. Hostels: Sweden has an extensive network of hostels that provide budget-friendly accommodation for backpackers and travelers on a budget. Hostelling International Sweden is a good resource for finding and booking hostels.
3. Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and FlipKey can provide you with a range of rental options, from apartments in the city to holiday homes on the coast.
4. Camping and Caravanning: If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you may want to consider camping or caravanning. Sweden has many campsites, including some in national parks, that provide facilities for tents, caravans, and motorhomes.
5. Couchsurfing: For a unique and authentic experience, consider using couchsurfing. This is a hospitality exchange platform that allows you to stay with locals for free, providing you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in Swedish culture.
You can check hotel prices in Sweden here:
Booking.com

Sweden: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Sweden receives around 10 million tourists annually. The peak season for tourism in Sweden is typically during the summer months of June to August, as well as around Christmas and New Year's. During these peak times, popular destinations such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and the West Coast may become quite crowded. However, outside of these peak periods, many of Sweden's attractions can be enjoyed in a more relaxed and uncrowded manner.
Yes, Sweden is generally a safe country for tourists. However, like any other country, there are some areas or neighborhoods that could be less safe than others, especially during the night time. It’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and to take safety precautions, such as not leaving your belongings unattended and avoiding deserted areas at night. In general, areas with higher crime rates in Sweden are often located in the suburbs of major cities and in some inner-city neighborhoods.
That being said, overall Sweden is known for its high safety standards and low crime rates compared to many other countries, so tourists can explore and enjoy the country with peace of mind.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Sweden on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Sweden: events for tourists

There are many interesting events for tourists in Sweden. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Midsummer: Celebrated in late June, this festival includes dancing around a maypole and eating traditional foods like herring and potatoes.
2. Lucia: Celebrated in December, this festival includes a procession of girls in white dresses carrying candles.
3. Stockholm Pride: Held in July, Stockholm Pride is the largest LGBT pride festival in Scandinavia.
4. Icehotel: Located in the town of Jukkasjärvi, this hotel is made entirely of ice and snow and is rebuilt every winter.
5. Gothenburg Film Festival: Held in January, this festival screens international films and is one of the largest film festivals in Scandinavia.
6. Nobel Week: Held in December, this week includes the Nobel Prize award ceremony, concerts, exhibitions and lectures.
7. Vasaloppet: This is the oldest and longest cross-country ski race in the world and takes place in February.
8. Crayfish Party: A traditional Swedish late summer event, where friends gather to eat crayfish and drink snaps.
These are just some of the many interesting events that tourists can attend in Sweden.

Sweden: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Sweden, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Sweden: Day 1-3: Stockholm Spend a few days in the beautiful capital city of Stockholm, visiting the Royal Palace, the Vasa Museum, and wandering through the charming, winding streets of the Gamla Stan (Old Town) neighborhood. Make sure to try some traditional Swedish cuisine, such as meatballs with lingonberry sauce or herring served several ways.
Day 4-6: Gothenburg Take a train or fly to the city of Gothenburg, known for its maritime history and lively cultural scene. Visit the Gothenburg Museum of Art, take a stroll in the Liseberg amusement park, or enjoy some fresh seafood in one of the city's many restaurants.
Day 7-9: West Coast Drive or take a train north to the picturesque west coast of Sweden. Here, you'll find charming small towns, fishing villages, and stunning natural beauty. Explore the Bohuslän archipelago, take a dip in the refreshing sea, or simply relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
Day 10-12: Lapland One of the most unique regions in all of Sweden is Lapland, located in the far north and home to the indigenous Sami people. Take a flight or train to the city of Kiruna, where you can visit the famous Icehotel or go dog sledding, snowmobiling, or skiing.
Day 13-14: Stockholm Return to Stockholm for a few final days of exploring. Visit the Skansen open-air museum, take a boat tour through the nearby archipelago, or simply relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Of course, this itinerary can be customized based on your own interests and preferences. But it should give you a good idea of some of the highlights and top destinations to visit during your two weeks in Sweden.

Sweden: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Sweden described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Borlänge is a city located in central Sweden. It is the seat of Dalarna County and has a population of about 50,000 people. The city is surrounded by beautiful forests and lakes and is known for its o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borlänge
- Borås is a medium-sized city located in western Sweden, about 60 km east of Gothenburg. It is the second largest city in the county of Västra Götaland and has a population of around 113,000 people. Bo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borås
- Falun is a city located in the heart of Dalarna, a region in central Sweden known for its traditional culture. It has a population of around 37,000 people and is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage S... CONTINUE here for a trip to Falun
- Gothenburg is a major city in western Sweden, located on the coast of Kattegat, an arm of the North Sea. It is the second-largest city in Sweden, with a population of over 570,000 in the metropolitan ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gotemburg
- Gävle is a city located in the north part of Sweden, in the province of Gästrikland. It's situated on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia and has a population of around 100,000 people. Gävle is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gävle
- Halmstad is a city located in southwestern Sweden, known for its sandy beaches, lush parks, and rich cultural heritage. It is the capital of the Halland County and is situated between the Nissan River... CONTINUE here for a trip to Halmstad
- Helsingborg is a coastal city located in southern Sweden, on the Öresund strait. It has a population of around 150,000 people and is the eighth-largest city in Sweden. Helsingborg is known for its bea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Helsingborg
- Hjo is a small town located on the western shore of Lake Vättern in Sweden. It is in the province of Västergötland and belongs to the municipality of Hjo. The town has a population of around 6,000 peo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hjo
- Härnösand is a city located on the eastern coast of Sweden, in the region of Västernorrland. It has a population of approximately 18,000 people and is known for its historic architecture, including th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Härnösand
- Hässleholm is a small town located in the southern part of Sweden, specifically in the Scania region. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is known for its beautiful countryside surrounding... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hässleholm
- Jönköping is a city located in the southern part of Sweden. It is situated on the shores of the scenic Lake Vättern and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The city has a population of ap... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jönköping
- Kalmar is a city located in the southeast of Sweden, situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea. It is the capital of the Kalmar County and has a population of around 38,000 people. The city has a rich h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalmar
- Karlskrona is a beautiful coastal city located in the southeast of Sweden. It is the capital of Blekinge County and a popular tourist destination, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karlskrona
- Karlstad is a city located in central Sweden, around 250 km west of Stockholm. It has a population of approximately 90,000 people and is the capital of the Värmland County. The city is situated on the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karlstad
- Kiruna is a small town located in the far north of Sweden, in the province of Lapland. It is known for being the most northerly town in Sweden and for its unique location within the Arctic Circle. Kir... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kiruna
- Kristianstad is a city located in the southern part of Sweden in the province of Skåne. It has a population of around 40,000 people and is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kristianstad
- Linköping is a city located in southern Sweden, in the region of Östergötland. It has a population of around 160,000 people and is the fifth largest city in Sweden. Linköping is known for its high-tec... CONTINUE here for a trip to Linköping
- Luleå is a city located in the northern part of Sweden, near the Gulf of Bothnia. It is the largest city in the county of Norrbotten and one of the northernmost cities in Sweden. Luleå is an important... CONTINUE here for a trip to Luleå
- Lund is a historic city located in the southernmost part of Sweden. It is home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, Lund University, which was founded in 1666. The city is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lund
- Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden, located in the southern part of the country, on the coast of the Øresund strait facing Copenhagen, Denmark. It has a population of around 330,000 people and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Malmö
- Marstrand is a small picturesque island located on the west coast of Sweden, about 40 km north of Gothenburg. It is known for its scenic harbor, rocky coastline, and historic fortifications. The islan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marstrand
- Mjölby is a small town located in the southeastern part of Sweden, in the county of Östergötland. The town has a population of approximately 13,000 people and covers an area of around 456 square kilom... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mjölby
- Motala is a town situated in the Östergötland County in Sweden. It is located on the eastern shore of Lake Vättern, the country's second-largest lake. The town has a population of around 30,000 people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Motala
- Norrköping is a city located in the southeastern part of Sweden, in the province of Östergötland, and the sixth-largest city in Sweden. The city is situated on the Motala ström river, which flows into... CONTINUE here for a trip to Norrköping
- Nyköping is a vibrant city located in the southeastern part of Sweden, about 100 km southwest of Stockholm. It is the largest city in the Södermanland County and is situated on the coast of the Baltic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyköping
- Piteå is a town located in the northern part of Sweden, in the province of Norrbotten. It has a population of around 24,000 people, making it a relatively small town. It is situated by the Gulf of Bot... CONTINUE here for a trip to Piteå
- Simrishamn is a coastal town in the southern part of Sweden, located in the province of Skåne. It has a population of approximately 6,000 people and is known for its picturesque harbor with colorful b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Simrishamn
- Skellefteå is a city located in the north of Sweden, in the province of Västerbotten. It has a population of around 33,000 people and it is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. The city is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skellefteå
- Skövde is a town in southwestern Sweden, located in the Västra Götaland County. It has a population of around 55,000 people and covers an area of approximately 31 square kilometers. Skövde is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skövde
- Sollefteå is a town located in the central part of Sweden, specifically in the county of Västernorrland. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is situated along the banks of the Ångerman Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sollefteå
- Stockholm is the capital and the largest city of Sweden. It is located in the eastern part of the country, built on 14 small islands, and surrounded by the Baltic Sea. The city is known for its beauti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stockholm
- Sundsvall is a city in North Sweden, located about 400 km north of Stockholm. It is the largest city in the county of Västernorrland and the second-largest urban area in Norrland region. Sundsvall has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sundsvall
- Söderköping is a small town located in the eastern part of Sweden, in the Östergötland County. It is situated by the coast of the Baltic Sea and has a population of about 6,000 people. The town has a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Söderköping
- Trelleborg is a town in the southern part of Sweden, located in the province of Skåne. It is known for its ferry port, which connects it with the city of Rostock in Germany and other destinations in E... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trelleborg
- Trollhättan is a city located in southwestern Sweden. Its name means "Goblin's hat", and it is situated on the western shore of Lake Vänern. The city is known for its historical locks, which allow boa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trollhättan
- Uddevalla is a coastal town located in the southwestern part of Sweden. It is situated on the shores of the Byfjorden, an inlet of the Skagerrak sea. With a population of around 35,000 people, it is t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uddevalla
- Umeå is a city situated in northern Sweden, in the region of Västerbotten. It is the largest city in the region and has a population of around 123,000 people. Umeå is known for its high-quality educat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Umeå
- Uppsala is a city located in the eastern part of Sweden, about 70 kilometers north of Stockholm. It is one of the oldest cities in Sweden and it has a rich history and cultural heritage. Uppsala is ho... CONTINUE here for a trip to Uppsala
- Varberg is a coastal town located in southwestern Sweden, in the province of Halland. It has a population of approximately 34,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches, spa, historic fortress,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Varberg
- Visby is a historical town located on the Swedish island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the city walls and gates, ruins of churches a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Visby
- Västerås is a city in central Sweden, located on the shore of Lake Mälaren. It is the 5th largest city in Sweden and the capital of Västmanland county. The city has a long history, dating back to the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Västerås
- Växjö is a city located in the southern part of Sweden's Småland province. It has a population of approximately 66,000 people and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with many lakes and f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Växjö
- Ystad is a coastal town in southern Sweden, located in the province of Skåne. It is known for its well-preserved medieval and picturesque town center, beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Ystad attrac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ystad
- Ängelholm is a town located in southwestern Sweden, in the province of Skåne. It is situated on the west coast, between the cities of Helsingborg and Båstad, and has a population of approximately 40,0... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ängelholm
- Åhus is a small town in southeastern Sweden, located in the province of Skåne. It is situated on the coast of the Baltic Sea, about 20 kilometers southeast of Kristianstad. Åhus is known for its charm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Åhus
- Åmål is a small town located in the province of Västra Götaland in southwestern Sweden, by the shore of Lake Vänern. With a population of around 12,500 people, it's a quiet and peaceful place, ideal f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Åmål
- Åre is a small town located in the county of Jämtland in central Sweden. It is known for its ski resorts, which are considered some of the best in Northern Europe. Åre has hosted various international... CONTINUE here for a trip to Åre
- Örebro is a city located in the central part of Sweden, with a population of around 150,000 people. It is the seventh-largest city in Sweden and has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Öreb... CONTINUE here for a trip to Örebro
- Örnsköldsvik is a municipality and a city located in the northern part of Sweden, in the county of Västernorrland. It has a population of about 33,000 people and covers an area of approximately 2,500 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Örnsköldsvik
- Östersund is a city located in the middle of Sweden, in the province of Jämtland. It is the largest city in the county and has a population of approximately 50,000 people. It is known for its beautifu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Östersund


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