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15 Best Cities to Visit in Sweden

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on March 7, 2024

A country of outstanding natural beauty, it is only fitting that Sweden ‘s beautiful coastline and ancient forests are home to such fantastic cities. Delightful winding alleys give way to old castles and churches while pagan sites border these picturesque and lively cities. Atmospheric cafes and bars dot their streets and delightful museums are interspersed amongst daring modern architecture and more traditional buildings.

The nightlife options on offer are fantastic and many of its cities are home to sizeable student populations. With a youthful and dynamic feel to their streets, the best cities in Sweden seamlessly mix the old and new together; the perfect smorgasbord for you to enjoy.

15. Karlstad

Set on the shores of Lake Vanern, with the Klaralven River running through it, Karlstad is an excellent city to visit if you love the outdoors. With the colossal lake lying next to it, there are lots of watersports for you to try out, and some scenic spots along the lake shore that are also worth stopping by.

Despite its small size, its large student body means that Karlstad is a surprisingly lively place with a youthful feel, and there are numerous bars and restaurants for you to enjoy.

14. Halmstad

Although most of this once-fortified city’s buildings and monuments were destroyed in the fire of 1619, Halmstad is still a pleasant and popular place to visit. While there are many great restaurants on offer, as well as a good museum, most people head here for the beaches just outside the city center. In summer, they teem with visitors, and the outdoor bars are a popular spot to party at.

13. Sundsvall

Lying on the Bothnian coast, Sundsvall is a cosmopolitan city with a lot to offer. While there is not any standout landmark per se, its uniform appearance makes it lovely to walk around, with wide boulevards lined with pretty stone buildings.

Almost completely burnt down in half a day in 1888, the city was hastily rebuilt at an impressive speed and is now often referred to as ‘stone city’. With plenty of great restaurants, cozy bars and cafes hidden around, Sundsvall is well worth stopping by.

While the stunning and beautiful castle is undoubtedly the highlight of Orebro, its delightful moats and grounds are not the only thing worth seeing in the city. A lively university town, its sizeable student population provides an endless choice of terrace cafes, bars and cheapish eateries for visitors to enjoy.

Located not far from Stockholm, Orebro also has some peaceful parks, laid-back lanes, and the nearby Vanern Lake to attract tourists.

11. Vasteras

Approaching Vasteras from afar, you can be forgiven for the slight trepidation you feel – the industrial areas and soulless shopping complexes surrounding the city seem unappealing. At its heart, however, the old town is an absolute joy to explore; lovely cottages and pretty, flower-filled gardens line its cobbled streets.

A large city, it has some great museums and restaurants and also acts as a base from which to explore the nearby countryside. Here, you can find some old pagan sites worth checking out, as well as the lovely Malaren Lake and a huge water park, among other sites.

A delightful medieval city, Visby is the capital of Gotland and is one of the most spectacular cities in Sweden. Its web of ancient, cobbled streets and alleys is mesmerizing to wander around. Picturesque cottages, beautiful ruins of Gothic churches and the amazing walls surrounding the Old Town make it an enchanting and picture-perfect city.

The stunning Saint Maria Cathedral is beautiful to behold and there are lots of bars and restaurants to stop by. In the summer, it can get a bit crowded, but once a year, Visby hosts a fun and festive Medieval Week, where the city is awash with medieval costumes and events.

One of the oldest cities in Sweden, Uppsala is considered to be the heart of the nation. Despite its long and rich history, it has a lively and energetic feel to it – its large student body breathes fresh life into the ancient streets.

.A laid-back place that comes alive at night, the city straddles the Fyris River. Atmospheric cafes and lively bars line its banks and there are some lovely waterside paths to wander along. Nearby, there is a captivating archaeological site with the remains of old Uppsala. Easily reached from Stockholm, Uppsala is a great city to stop by.

With a plethora of things to see and do, Umea is a somewhat hidden gem, despite it being the European Capital of Culture in 2014. It has a huge art gallery, fantastic vintage guitar museum, and some lovely museums looking at the culture of the indigenous Sami people.

Away from its range of cultural attractions, this lively college town has loads of great bars and restaurants, some good shopping on offer, as well as nice little parks dotted about the city. Located around 400-kilometres below the Arctic Circle, many people stop here on their way to see the Northern Lights.

7. Linkoping

While its stunning medieval cathedral is the undoubted highlight of Linkoping, there is much more to the city that is worth seeing. Although it is quite industrial in parts – as Saab has taken over the city – pockets of its fantastic past can be found interspersed amidst more modern and soulless buildings.

For instance, there is a lovely old castle, numerous churches, as well as some great museums for visitors to check out. Parts of the city are absolutely gorgeous, and you’ll have a magical time searching them out. The site of a famous battle, it is here that Duke Karl managed to finally win control of Sweden in 1598.

The second oldest city in the country, Lund is a picturesque place just begging to be explored. With lovely old lanes weaving their way around the city, delightful architecture lining its streets, and beech forests surrounding it, it is the stunning medieval old town that is the highlight of any trip to Lund.

Its leafy parks give way to some great museums, and cobbled streets hide an array of picture-perfect spots. With the most prestigious and oldest university in Sweden at its heart, there is a youthful feel and energy, which has manifested itself in a lively arts and cultural scene. Beautiful to wander around, there are some great nightlife spots as well as a thriving gastronomic scene.

5. Karlskrona

A military-base town, Karlskrona is renowned for its delightful naval architecture that can be found everywhere in the city. While the 17th and 18th Century buildings are beautiful, you’ll often need to join a tour to see them – many of them are still used by the military.

Originally established so the King of Sweden could control the Baltic Sea, Karlskrona has grown over the years into the country’s third-largest city. Consequently, there is lots to see and do.

Check out some lovely old churches, modern shopping malls, and an array of restaurants and bars. In the summer, there are lots of charming, secluded swimming spots around the archipelago to go and explore.

4. Helsingborg

Once the site of numerous battles between the Swedes and the Danes due to its strategic position and proximity to Denmark , Helsingborg has some impressive castle ruins which look out over the harbor. Set on the Oresund, it has a lovely waterfront where there are lots of cafes and restaurants to while away an afternoon.

Millions of people pass through Helsingborg and its Danish neighbor Helsingor each year, and there is a fantastic theater and arts scene to woo people with. Its delightful cobblestone streets weave their way through the city, past distinctive turreted buildings which give Helsingborg such a special look.

The third-largest city in the country is a multicultural place, with over 150 different nationalities calling Malmo home. Consequently, there is a progressive and welcoming outlook. Bordering Copenhagen, with Germany just across the Baltic, Malmo has long been influenced by different people, so there are some fantastic Middle Eastern markets for visitors to explore, as well as an astounding array of cuisines to sample.

Its art and culture scene is thriving and there are lots of interesting architectural pieces for you to check out. With its delightful old castle, lovely squares in the Old Town, and modern waterfront with its fantastic promenade, Malmo is ripe for discovery.

2. Gothenburg

A laidback city that is nice to visit and charming to live in, Gothenburg’s maritime identity pervades everything. Walking along its waterfront is delightful, with numerous 17th Century canals crisscrossing the city. Ships lie alongside its port and sea-related museums can be found here and there.

With some lovely architecture on show, there is a vibrant arts and cultural scene and lots of different events and festivals going on throughout the year. Its large student body gives Gothenburg a youthful feel, and the bustling bars, cafes and fine shopping options – as well as its delicious fish-filled cuisine – provide yet more reasons to visit Gothenburg.

1. Stockholm

Spread across fourteen islands, residents understandably call their capital ‘beauty on water,’ and it is easy to see why. With its fantastic mix of modern and traditional architecture, there are different sides to Stockholm – the old town is particularly delightful. Lovely cathedrals, a sumptuous palace and winding cobbled streets are surrounded by water, making it magical to explore.

Practical yet attractive design is everywhere you look, whether it is in cafes, bars and restaurants, or demonstrated in the buildings themselves – there are a couple of great museums on the subject. A fashionable place, Stockholm is a trendy city to go out in, whether it is to the lively nightclubs or the incredible restaurants that deal up such delicious and varied cuisine.

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

Map of cities in Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

1. Gamla Stan, Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21, Stockholm

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

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

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

Address: 178 93 Drottningholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 115 21 Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Hantverkargatan 1, Stockholm

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

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

Address: Örgrytevägen 5, 402 22 Göteborg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Uppsala

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Kyrkogatan 6, Lund

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Copenhagen

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

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

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

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

Address: Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

More on Sweden

30 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

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

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

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

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Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abisko National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Örebro

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vasa Museum (Vasamuseet)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drottningholm Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Swedish Lapland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Vättern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Smögen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

High Coast/Kvarken Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gripsholm Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Siljan Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Göta Canal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luleå

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Helsingborg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Stockholm Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are my favorite travel must-haves?

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

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

So, are you planning to visit Sweden soon?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning to visit Sweden? Check out these posts!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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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The 21 best things to do in Sweden

Explore the best things to do in Sweden, from a hotel under a lake to a sauna in a giant golden egg. Nope, no typo there

There are so many incredible things to do in Sweden that it can be difficult to know where to start. From the gorgeous streets of Stockholm to the icy serenity of the Arctic, Sweden is the sort of place that ticks plenty of boxes in an unmistakably stylish manner. You can sauna in a golden egg, eat fermented herring, sing with ABBA and more. Sweden isn’t like other places, that is for sure. Stockholm gets most of the attention but ignoring the rest is a fool’s game. Sweden is pristine wilderness, cosmopolitan cities, rich food , incredible history, and more adventure than even the most adventurous could need. This is the best of the best when in Sweden.

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Best things to do in Sweden

1.  Drink Swedish whisky on an island

Home to the country’s first whisky distillery, Hven – a tiny island in the middle of the Øresund strait – is well worth a day trip. Cycle around the island and marvel at the dramatic coastlines, visit Tycho Brahe’s famous observatory and the four quaint little villages, and buy some (very) local crafts and produce. Of course, top it off with a few (surprisingly decent) drams at the only pub.

2.  Eat seafood in Smögen

Come summer, Swedes decamp en masse to the seaside to relax, and the picture-perfect island of Smögen, high on the east coast, is the hippest place to swim, chill out, and gorge on the freshest seafood imaginable. Wander amongst traditional fishing huts, explore hidden pools in the rocks and cliffs, or just stroll down the main boardwalk and choose the best spot for a pre-dinner aperitif.

3.  Have a panoramic sauna and a dip in the sea

No trip to Sweden is complete without some sauna action, and few badhus (bathhouses) are as beautiful or historic as Malmö’s Kallbadhuset. Over a hundred years old, this public bath also houses a café, restaurant and spa facilities. Yes, you have to get naked (there are separate male and female saunas), and yes, you get in the sea afterwards no matter the time of year, but the panoramic views of the Øresund Bridge and across to Copenhagen are more than worth it.

4.  Walk through the world’s only mounted blue whale

This young blue whale, beached and killed in 1865, is the main attraction of the Gothenburg Natural History Museum and the only one of its kind in the world. The mounted whale – its original skin stretched over a wooden frame – sits side by side with its skeleton, and a hinged jaw allows people to walk into the belly of the beast (although it’s only hinged open on special days).

5.  Follow in the footsteps of a king

Sweden is rightly renowned for its natural splendour and ruggedness, and there’s no better way to explore it than on foot. The Kungsleden (King’s) hiking trail is one of the best known, a well-marked 425km route that takes in mountains, valleys, lakes, and forests. Doing it takes around 18 days, but shorter sections can also be done, and there are cabins along the way for sleeping. Go in early summer though as the mosquitoes get ferocious in July and August.

6.  Indulge yourself at a historic spa

For over 100 years, the hotel and spa of Ystad Saltsjöbad have pampered the great and good of Sweden. Located on the Baltic Sea at Sweden’s most southerly coastline, this luxury retreat offers holistic treatments for body and mind, with world-class food and five-star accommodation. Lounge in one of the outdoor hot springs, enjoy the sea view from the dry sauna and just chill out on one of the cloud-like day beds. 

7.  Visit a Sami village in Lapland

Lapland remains one of Europe’s last great wildernesses, yet the Sami have called this region home for centuries. Traditionally relying on reindeer herding, fur trapping, and fishing, they have their own culture and language, and their lifestyle offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visit in the summer for 24-hour daylight, or go dog sledding and marvel at the northern lights in the winter.

8.  Bathe in a vault under Stockholm

Buried in a vault in the basement of a seventeenth-century townhouse in the Old Town, Stockholm’s smallest – and hardest to find – public bath is an old-fashioned marvel. Unchanged since it was built, Storkyrkobadet consists of just one shallow pool and several smaller tubs but is one of the most relaxing places to bathe. Open for just a few hours each evening, there are separate days for men (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) and women (Mondays and Thursdays).

9.  Ski through old military mountain tunnels

Swedes absolutely love to ski, but if you’re bored of standard runs, then head to the tiny town of Gällö, where the local authority has turned a former top-secret network of mountain tunnels into a year-round skiing facility that also offers cross-country and biathlon practice (they have their own shooting range). Open since 2017, it’s the world’s longest ski tunnel, and it even has its own app so you can track your speeds, distance, and effort.

10.  Sauna in a golden egg in the Arctic

Located in Kiruna, one of the northernmost towns in Sweden, the golden Solar Egg is one of the most breathtaking, iconic places to indulge in a sauna. Set in the middle of a pristine field of snow, the egg’s mirrored exterior houses a wood-burning stove and a surprisingly spacious interior. And with swimming here impossible, the bracing post-sauna shock is provided by a roll in the snow.

11.  Sleep in an ice hotel

Built from scratch every year with ice carved from the River Tome, a night spent here is truly unique. Everything, from the beds to the glasses in the bar, is made from ice, and there are a variety of suites and rooms to choose from (fear not, thermal clothing and bedding are provided). They also offer dog sled rides, ice sculpting classes, snowmobile adventures, and a northern lights safari.

12.  Sleep in the trees by the Arctic Circle

If ice isn’t your thing (see above), how about a night 15ft above the ground in an eco-friendly, minimalist cabin? The Treehotel, on the edge of the Arctic Circle, boats five distinct rooms, each designed by a different architect – the most famous being the iconic Mirrorcube. The idea is to reconnect with nature, and with all five spread out and enjoying magnificent views over the Lule River valley, there’s no better place for rejuvenation.

13.  Celebrate midsummer in style at Leksand

Dancing around a maypole. Pickled herring and grilled fish. Cold beer and snaps. Singalongs. Flower crowns. Lashings of fresh strawberries and cream. Swedish midsummer is a celebration like no other, and the best place to partake in this tradition is in the town of Leksand on Lake Siljan. Boasting the world’s tallest Maypole, the inhabitants know how to party, with plenty of traditional folk music and carousing that continues well into the small hours.

14.  Explore Sweden’s most beautiful archipelago by boat

Consisting of nearly 30,000 separate islands to the East of Stockholm, Sweden’s largest archipelago is an area of rare natural beauty, full of sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and dense woodland. It remains remarkably unspoilt, and while some of the bigger islands are worth visiting separately, the best way to enjoy it is on one of the many, many boat tours. Aim for one at least 2.5 hours long and explores more of the islands further out.

15.  Cruise across Sweden

Constructed in the nineteenth century to provide a shipping route from Gothenburg in the east to the Baltic Sea, the Göta Canal is now mainly used for pleasure cruises and sailing. You can sail part of the route, or opt for the six-day, coast-to-coast trip, and while it’s possible to hire your own boat, it’s best experienced on one of the unique, 100-year-old canal boats still in service, specially designed to fit the narrow locks.

16.  Drive the famous High Coast and eat fermented herring

The High Coast, part of the Gulf of Bothnia in northeastern Sweden, is a 100km stretch famed for its breathtaking scenery and unique red granite cliffs and rocks. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of it can be hiked, but it’s best explored by car, allowing stops for bear safaris, kayaking, and a visit to Sweden’s second-highest waterfall. And if you’re feeling brave, try fermented herring, a particularly pungent delicacy from this area.

17.  Sleep under a lake

One of the most unusual places to stay in Sweden, The Utter Inn is a floating underwater hotel on Lake Mälaren. Accommodation is somewhat basic – a tiny kitchen and bathroom and a sparse bedroom down a flight of stairs, three metres below the water – but you get panoramic views in four directions, and once you’ve been dropped off, you can sit on the small terrace and sip wine, undisturbed by the rest of the world.

18.  Enjoy the view from a twisting tower

Designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, the Turning Torso is a Malmö icon; it’s also the tallest skyscraper in Scandinavia and the second-highest residential building – yes, you can live in it! – in Europe. The whole structure twists 90 degrees from base to top, and while the incredible views from the roof can only be enjoyed for three weeks every summer, the top two floors can be rented as meeting and conference rooms.

19.  Experience the Viking life

There are many reasons to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Visby on Gotland Island – the walled old town, ancient churches, beautiful beaches – but for an extra treat, go during Medieval Week in August. Jousting tournaments, medieval markets, fire shows, and traditional parades give a glimpse into the old Viking ways of life, and of course, everyone dresses up accordingly. You can even sample tankards of mead, walnut shots, and other Viking culinary delights.

20.  Sing with ABBA at their museum

If Stockholm is on your itinerary, visiting this shrine to the pop legends is an absolute must. The interactive exhibition redefines what a modern museum can be – as they say, ‘Walk in. Dance out.’ You can try on their famous costumes virtually, pick apart the studio recordings on music software, and even perform with ABBA’s avatars on a hologram stage (the results can be downloaded to your mobile device).

21.  Watch a sunset from The Bridge

Fan of TV series The Bridge? Then you know all about Øresund. A modern engineering marvel, this famous 16km bridge – the last four routed through an underwater tunnel – carries road and rail traffic between Malmö and Copenhagen. It’s closed to pedestrians, but for the best views – and unbeatable sunsets – head to the terrace of Luftkastellet, a bar, restaurant, and conference centre located on the cliffs on the Swedish side.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Sweden

Sweden is filled with amazing must-visit attractions. Sweden is a land of contrasts – from the serene tranquility of its landscapes to the vibrant pulse of its cosmopolitan cities. Some are known around the world but there are also those that belong more on the ‘ hidden gems ‘ list. Here’s a mix that will have you travelling up and down the country.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Drottningholm Palace

It’s the home of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Sweden but only one wing is closed to the public. You’re welcome to explore both the rest of the palace and the grounds – where the King and Queen are sometimes spotted walking.

It’s been one of Stockholm’s powerhouse attractions since it opened in 1990 and it’s doubtful its appeal with ever falter. Full of fascinating history, just seeing the ship up close and personal is quite astounding.

Stockholm archipelago

Beautifully serene, with tiny pockets of nightlife here and there, the Stockholm archipelago is more than 30,000 islands of delight. Explore via ferry or even rent a sailboat to make your way around.

Kalmar Castle

With a history that stretches back 800 years, Kalmar Castle is an amazing place to explore. It was a key player in numerous historical events and also an important fortification at one point in Sweden’s history.

Fotografiska

One of the world’s great photography museums, Fotografiska is dedicated to contemporary photography, staging four major and 20 minor exhibitions each year. It also has a fabulous café on the top floor, with wonderful views.

Swedish Air Force Museum

The museum traces the development of Swedish military aviation with a unique collection of aircraft, including early 20th century pioneers to today’s high tech jets. It also hosts several temporary exhibitions each year.

The world’s first open-air museum takes you into living history, where you can learn about how Swedes have lived through the centuries, the crafts that built the countryside and the animals that are native to the country.

With three million visitors each year, Gothenburg’s Liseberg Amusement Park is among the most popular in Scandinavia. It’s got all the great rides, as well as great food and drink, and a setting that is worth the price of ticket alone.

Abba the Museum

The Vasa Museum was once the most visited attraction in Stockholm and then along came the biggest pop act in the history of the world. This museum is as good as all the hype suggests, and it’s also home to the Swedish Music Hall of Fame.

Gothenburg’s Botanical Garden

The stunning Botanical Garden offers a collection of around 16,000 plants and flowers, as well as beautiful grounds in which to have a stroll. Admission is free and it’s a peaceful oasis where you can find a few moments of calm.

Visby City Wall

Visby is the main town on Gotland, the largest island in the Baltic Sea, and its history stretches back to medieval times. There are plenty of church ruins but the most remarkable bit is the city wall, which rings much of the city.

James Bond Museum

The world’s only James Bond museum has a huge collection of James Bond memorabilia, perfect for any fan of 007. All of the cars are there and when you’re done playing secret agent, grab a bite at the restaurant.

Slottsskoggen

Gothenburg’s main park is filled with winding paths and local flora and fauna – and it’s also filled with elk, Gotland ponies, Gute sheep and myriad other Nordic animals. Located in the heart of the city this park is a local favourite, and it also hosts the legendary Way Out West Festival.

Abisko National Park

Established more than 100 years ago, Abisko sits on the edge of one of Sweden’s largest lakes and is where the Kungsleden hiking trail begins. It’s way up north and it’s absolutely fabulous.

Lund Cathedral

Made of sandstone, Lund’s cathedral is a fabulous example of Romanesque architecture. It’s been here for hundreds of years and is one of the top attractions in a region that is sometimes overlooked.

High Chaparral

Despite being located in northern Europe, Swedes have a love of many American things, the Old Wild West being one of them. As a result, this theme park devoted to all things cowboy and cowgirl is a major attraction.

Astrid Lindgren’s World

Astrid Lindgren is one of the world’s most famous children’s writers and this is her world, where stories, play, theatre and reality all blur in to one delightful experience. It might be for kids but adults always have a great time as well.

Ales Stenar

Ale’s Stones is a megalithic monument in southern Sweden made up of 59 boulders. Each weighs up to 1.8 tonnes each and they form the shape of a ship 67 metres long. Carbon dating has come up with seven results – some material is 5,500 years old, while some just just 1,400 years old. Either way, it dates back at least to the Nordic Iron Age.

Sala Silvergruva

This award-winning attraction takes visitors into an old silver mine that was in operation from the 15th century until 1908. See how the miners lived and worked, and enjoy a traditional meal.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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• 24 Best Places To Visit In Sweden While Exploring This Winter Wonderland

23 Mar 2023

Discovering the captivating beauty of the midnight sun, vibrant cities, and cultural heritage—exploring places to visit in Sweden —is an essential and enchanting part of any European travel experience. Just like we can’t imagine a life without the Vikings, Swedish meatballs, and H&M, a trip to Europe is totally incomplete without exploring Sweden. The country is blessed with the most scenic landscapes, exotic cities, and rich heritage that serves as the home to the midnight sun, northern lights, reindeer, and adorable huskies who can be your ride on the snow. To witness all of this, embark on an expedition to explore these wonderful places to visit in Sweden.

24 Places To Visit In Sweden

Sweden is an amazing holiday destination. From the ice hotels to the enchanting cruise rides, from countrysides to trekking routes, here are the 24 best places to visit in Sweden which will take you on a journey to a wonderland.

1. Stockholm

Image Credit: ID 27707 for Pixabay

Stockholm, often considered the best place to visit in Sweden , offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every traveller’s taste, from its rich history to contemporary culinary delights. This Swedish capital is hyped to be a place that has something to offer everyone. Boasting aesthetically designed architecture and modern art blended perfectly with the cobblestoned streets of the old town, this blend of different eras can also be witnessed in the restaurants in Stockholm, where they serve both traditional and modern Nordic cuisine. Being among the best places to visit in Sweden in autumn , Stockholm offers a chance to explore the charming Old Town and witness the beautiful fall foliage in the city parks.

Attractions in Stockholm : Djurgården, Skansen and Vasa Museum

Must Read: 10 Festivals In Sweden

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2. Gothenburg

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The country’s second largest city holds its charm, despite of being overshadowed by the glam of Stockholm. Reinvented its old space, the city is now a home to the Michelin star restaurants lined across the streets and the rusted warehouses which have turned out as art galleries. The serene and lively streets in the night and proximity to the neighboring islands makes this city one of the places to visit in Sweden which one cannot miss.

Attractions in Gothenburg: Liseberg Amusement Park, Gothenburg Museum of Art, Archipelago

A place where the wonders of nature are a fascinating sight to capture. Just at the north of the Arctic circle, this small village in Sweden is a home to see the spectacular Aurora Borealis and the Midnight sun. People from different places head to take a glimpse of the green and blue night sky in the winters while in the summers, the midnight sun is the main attraction of this secluded region.

Attractions in Abisko: Aurora Sky Station

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Stockholm For A Perfect Stay In The Finest City Of Scandinavia

Are is a mountain village which never sleeps and gives a metropolitan vibe with its wide array of things. Experience skiing and roam in the streets lined with shops, restaurants and bars along with the fascinating view of the mountains. This place is a great escape for the people who are looking out to calm down their adrenaline rush and spend a vacation away from the city.

Attractions in Are: Are Ski Resort, Are Kabinbana, Njarka Sami Camp, Froa Gruva

5. Halmstad

Image Credit: Boberger for wikipedia

Boasting its timber-framed architecture, ports and universities, this south-west Swedish city reflects the parts of the Danish culture of the 17th century along with the vibe of the metropolitan city. The summer city of Sweden, this destination is a paradise for the travelers who want an escape to the sandy beaches while enjoying a mild climate.

Attractions in Halmstad: Nissan River, Galgberget, Tylösand Strand, Mjellby Art Museum

Suggested Read: Experience Stockholm Tour-Venice Of The North On Your Swedish Holiday

6. Helsingborg

The city of Helsingborg is a home to the waterfront restaurants, ruins of the ancient castles and cobblestoned built streets. Along with a splendid architecture of the city, the locals also welcome you with a smile as you walk down the streets.

Attractions in Helsingborg: Kärnan, Sankta Maria Kyrka, Ramlösa Brunnspark

7. Jokkmokk

Being the meeting ground in the Swedish Lapland, this place holds an annual market since 400-years which brings the Sami Clan together. Reflecting the Sami culture at its best, this town gives a great experience to the travelers with their old traditions and delicious culinary treasures.

Attractions in Jokkmokk: Ajtte Sami Museum, Bio Norden, Gamla Apoteket

Suggested Read: Sweden Honeymoon: Top 10 Soul-Stirring Destinations For A Romantic Escape!

The unusual geographical location and the beautiful sightings of the nature makes this Swedish Lapland a fascinating place to discover. The travelers come from far and wide to witness the exotic view of the Northern lights and the Midnight sun at the same place. This is not enough because it has the highest mountain peak in Sweden to conquer and the world’s largest iron ore mine.

Attractions in Kiruna: LKAB Iron Ore Mine, Kiruna Kyrka

A Kalmar city showcases a vibrant contrast of historical architecture and modernity. Situated in the Baltic sea at the southeast part of Sweden, this city will give a glimpse of an unusual blend of past and present with its historical structures which complements the gigantic multinational companies and streets lined up with restaurants and bar.

Attractions in Kalmar: Kalmar Castle, Kalmar County Museum, Kalmar art museum

Suggested Read: These Treehouses In Sweden’s Jungle Are What Childhood Dreams Are Made Of!

Tucked away from all the glamour, this island province is a land of sandy beaches, luscious green valley and iron age villages which will remind you of the ‘Vikings’. It seems the time has stopped in this island, seeing the rustic surroundings. But the place has something for everyone, starting off from the serene beaches, rusted windmills and nightclubs to spice up the night.

Attractions in Oland: Gosslunda, Skedemose Museum, The Oland Bridge, Ismantorp Fortress

Given the title of the ‘Town of Silver Birches’, this capital city of Vasterbotten County is a home to many students. Situated in Northern Sweden, this is another resort to take you closer to view the magnificent Aurora Borealis. Along with being the student-friendly city, this place also boasts the second largest art gallery in Sweden.

Attractions in Umeå: Umedalen Sculpture Museum, Norrbyskar Island, Holmon Island, Västerbottens Museum

Suggested Read: 14 Essential Europe Travel Tips For The First-Timers Taking A Euro-cation

12. Linkoping

Located at the Ostgota Plains, this is one of the happening places in Sweden which gives a glimpse of the exciting city life for the explorers and also a relaxing vacation in isolation. This city has everything for the crowd, like the fancy restaurants, pristine lakes and entertainment at every corner of the street.

Attractions in Linkoping: Gamla Linkoping Open-Air Museum, Roxen, Linkoping Castle,

13. Lapland

Image Credit: Ruslan0202 for wikipedia

The Finnish Lapland is the true picture of that dreamy and picturesque winter wonderland. While the place showcases a beautiful change of 24-hour daylight in summers and the dark winter days, it is also a paradise for the skiing lovers. The land where you can take a ride of the huskies and meet Santa, the Finnish Lapland just makes every fantasy come true.

Attractions in Lapland: Santa Claus Village, Yllas, Arktikum Science Museum, Urho Kekkonen National Park

Suggested Read: This ‘GoT’ Ice Hotel In Finland Is The Ultimate Place To Live Like The Lady or Lord Of Winterfell

14. Sigtuna

This 10th-century town marks the beginning of Sweden and gives a clear picture of its ancient heritage and modern architecture. It is truly among the top places to visit in Sweden near Stockholm. Situated just an hour outside of Stockholm, this town will give a glimpse of the streets lined with cafes and restaurants amidst the historical ruins.

Attractions in Sigtuna: Skokloster Castle, Steninge Palace and Rosersberg Palace

15. Marstrand

This beautiful island city in Sweden holds a one of a kind sailing championships on the large guest harbour. Commonly known as the “Sailing Metropolis Of The West Coast”, this island gives an excellent experience of witnessing the glam of the nightlife, shopping stops and entertainment.

Attractions in Marstrand: Carlstens Fastning, Lasse Maja, Archipelago

Suggested Read: Serene Alternatives To Europe’s Most Crowded Cities

If medieval times and places intrigue your senses, you would absolutely love visiting the quaint town of Visby located in Gotland. It is best suggested to visit and witness the wall of Visby during the Medieval Week for a wholesome experience. During this time, people get dressed as knights from the medieval era and gather here. Get to know how people used to fight in wars back then. Hire a costume for yourself too, and dress up like a warrior to get into the vibe. You can also explore the traditional market around this place.

Attractions in Visby: Medieval Week with traditional markets and costumes

17. Ice Hotel, Jukkasjärvi

If you have researched well before preparing your itinerary for Sweden, you would very well be aware of the amazing and the wide range of ice hotels that are prevalent in Sweden. The amazing experience of staying in one of them is definitely something that you can’t get anywhere else in the world. The Ice Hotel, Jukkasjärvi is one such example hotels made completely out of ice. If you are wondering how would you withstand the cold, know that there are measures to keep your health in check. Ice Hotel is highly in demand, so make sure that you book in advance.

Attraction in Ice Hotel, Jukkasjärvi: Complete hotel made out of ice, even the beds and the furniture

Suggested Read: The Vipp Shelter In Sweden Brings You Closer To Nature By Building Your Private Hotel In The Forest

18. Österlen

Yet another amazing place to visit in Sweden is Österlen. Head here to experience the countryside of Sweden. The place is a collection of tranquil and serene neighborhoods, where you can spend some time in solace. If you wish to switch to a laid-back lifestyle for a few days, this is a good option. You will love the beaches and the lush green landscapes. Österlen is one of the most picturesque places in Sweden, so make sure you have your cameras fully charged and ready so that you do not miss out any beautiful moment or sight.

Attraction in Österlen: Beaches, Greenery and Countryside

19. Kebnekaise

If you are an adventurer and absolutely live for conquering mountains and high peaks. If you love the concept of hiking or trekking, Kebnekaise is the perfect place for you. It is the highest mountain peak (2114m) in Sweden and one of the most popular tourist spots here. You can reach Kebnekaise through any of the several trails around the region. Generally, visitors take a drive from Kiruna to Nikkaluokta and hike (19Km) to Kebnekaise fjällstation. Though the trekking risk level is low, it is suggested to visit Kebnekaise when it is on the season.

Attractions in Kebnekaise: Hiking the mountain of Kebnekaise.

Suggested Read: Here Are The World’s 29 Richest Countries As Per The IMF’s Latest Report

Image Credit: bemalteseinhorn for Pixabay

Birka is yet another amazing spot to experience the rich village culture in Sweden. This specific village is every history buff’s place of interest because it is one of those villages that date back to the days of the Vikings. Birka was an important trade center back then. There is a rich influence of the Vikings in this place even today. It is situated in the outskirts of Stockholm and you can reach here by boarding a Viking boat. So you have an add-on experience of a boat ride if you are visiting this place.

Attractions in Birka: Viking Culture

21. High Coast

If hiking is your thing and if you love going on trails that have not been much explored, you must try the High Coast trail in Sweden. During the journey, you would hike through dense forests and areas with human settlements. The journey is worth the time and effort because the view that you get to see at the end of the trail is simply breathtaking. This amazing route is not much explored and is one of the most underrated trails in Sweden. Make sure you have the basic trekking essentials handy and that you wear the most comfortable shoes to the trek.

Attractions in High Coast: Exploring the places on foot

Suggested Read: The Safest Country In Europe Is Closing Its Prisons & The Reason Will Put All Your Trip Woes Away!

Image Credit: martinwilson3 for Pixabay

Skåne another one of the must-visit cities in Sweden. This is one of those places that every nature-lover would want to visit. The plethora of mountains and hills, and the colorful landscape makes up for an amazing experience for every single traveler visiting this place. It is recommended that you visit Skåne during the Spring season if you don’t want to miss the awe-inspiring sight of the entire city turning yellow, with the blooming of canola flowers. You will be surely going back with a lot of pictures for your Instagram handle.

Attractions in Skåne: Visiting during Spring to encounter the Yellow fields of Canola

23. West Coast

If you thought only the eastern coast of Sweden is popular among the people, you are completely wrong. The West Coast also does make up for one of the most amazing tourist spots with wonderful scenic views and landscapes that you just can’t miss to witness. The entire archipelago around the West Coast is just as beautiful and enthralling so if you had not included the West Coast in your itinerary yet, you better do it.

Attractions in West Coast: Picturesque landscape

Suggested Read: 15 Best Things To Do In Sweden For Treating The Explorer In You!

24. Uppsala

Image Credit; ID 12019 for Pixabay

Last but not the least, Uppsala, the cultural capital of Sweden, totally deserves to be on your bucket list. If you wish to experience and explore the cultural and traditional side of Sweden, you must visit Uppsala. Apart from being a city which is famous for its educational facilities, it is also known for the wide range of historical destinations that you get to visit. When you visit Uppsala, make sure to hit the local cafes and engage in conversation with locals. This is one of the best ways to know about a place, its people, food culture and lifestyle.

Attractions in Uppsala: Local cafes and the historical sites around there.

Further Read: 10 Sweden Travel Tips For Having A Hassle-Free Holiday In The Scandinavian Nation!

Sweden is an amazing destination for a long vacation. And we are sure that by now, you must be excited to explore these cities in Sweden. So, plan a trip to Europe and go solo or with family or friends. But make sure that you keep all these places on your bucket list.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Sweden

What are the best places to visit in Sweden?

Stockholm's Archipelago, Stockholm Gamla Stan, Höga Kusten, Gothenburg Archipelago, Bohuslän Coast, Lake Siljan, Gotlands “Raukar”, Kungsleden, and Ales Stenar are some of the most scenic Sweden attractions.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Sweden?

Yes, you can witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, in Kiruna either during early-September or in March-end in the Swedish Lapland. For the best experience of witnessing the Northern Lights here, you should visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park.

Which are the best cities in Sweden?

Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, Uppsala, Västerås, Örebro, Linköping, and Helsingborg are some of the finest cities in Sweden that you must visit when you’re here. Make sure to visit these Sweden destinations for an enticing experience of this country.

Is 4 days enough in Sweden?

4 days in Sweden can offer a glimpse of the country, but you might feel rushed to explore the diverse attractions. Focusing on specific regions or cities like Stockholm or Gothenburg can give a taste of Sweden, but to fully experience the country, more time might be preferable.

What should I buy in Sweden?

Some of the best things to buy while shopping in Sweden include Lovikkavantar (Lovikka Mittens), Cheese Slicer, Snaps, Cloudberry Jam, Wooden Butter knives, Salty Liquorice, Polkagris, and Absolut Vodka.

What is Sweden well known for?

Sweden is a popular country in Europe that is known for its polar bears, chocolate, and fancy watches along with many other things. Sweden also includes various exquisite attractions, that makes it one of the best destinations in Europe.

Name some of the best places to visit in Sweden during summer.

Stockholm, Gotland, Gothenburg, Swedish Lapland, the West Coast, and Bohuslan are among some of the best places to see in Sweden during the summer.

What is traditional Swedish food?

Traditional Swedish cuisine includes dishes like köttbullar (Swedish meatballs), gravlax (cured salmon), smörgåsbord (a variety of open sandwiches), and husmanskost (home-style meals) such as kåldolmar (stuffed cabbage rolls) and raggmunk (potato pancakes). These dishes often incorporate local produce, fish, and meats, reflecting Sweden's culinary heritage.

How much does it cost to visit Sweden from India?

The cost of visiting Sweden from India can vary widely based on factors like travel dates, accommodations, activities, and personal spending. On average, a basic 7–10 day trip can cost from approximately ₹60,000 to ₹80,000 per person, excluding flights, depending on the type of accommodation and activities. Flight costs can range from ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 or more, depending on the season and booking time.

What are 5 interesting facts about Sweden?

1. Allemansrätt: Swedes have the 'Right of Public Access,' allowing freedom to roam in nature. 2. Innovation hub: It is the birthplace of iconic brands like IKEA, Volvo, H&M, Spotify, and Skype. 3. Gender equality: A strong advocate for gender equality with progressive policies 4. Sustainability leader: Pioneering in renewable energy with plans for a fossil fuel-free future. 5. Beautiful landscapes: It offers stunning natural beauty with the Northern Lights and diverse landscapes.

What is the best place to live in Sweden?

Sweden has a number of amazing places where you can live and work in peace that also come with a number of facilities at your doorstep. Some of these include Stockholm, Malmø, Gothenburg, Uppsala, and Solna.

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55 Unique Things To Do in Sweden

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: June 12, 2020

Categories Sweden

Home / Europe / Sweden / 55 Unique Things To Do in Sweden

Are you traveling to Sweden, and wonder what there is to do in Sweden? No worries, as you might already know I’m Swedish, and in this article, I will share 55 Unique things to do in Sweden as a tourist.

And what better way is there than to follow the tips of a local Swede?

10 Fun Things to do in Sweden

Celebrate midsummer.

Perhaps our most famous celebration, and one of our most unique traditions. If you visit Sweden in June, you might be able to attend a midsummer party. To explain it a little more in-depth I suggest you to look at the video below.

Ghost walk in Stockholm

Do you believe in ghosts? After a ghost walk in Stockholm, you might. There are many rumors about ghosts and spirits in the Old town of Stockholm. One part of the legend claims that the Old Town is haunted by the horrible happenings during the Stockholm Bloodbath.

A huge amusement park in Gothenburg, and one of the most popular things to do in Sweden, at least for children. At Liseberg, you can enjoy rides for both small and adults, and in general.

You’ll have a great day for the whole family.

Crayfish Party

Another famous festivity. This time we put on silly hats, sing silly songs, and eat a lot of crayfish and drink a lot of schnapps. We also decorate our homes with various pieces.

Photo: Carolina Romare/imagebank.sweden.se

Go to a music festival

Sweden is a famous nation when it comes to music. With international artists such as ABBA, Zara Larsson, Swedish House Mafia, Robyn, Avicii and many others! As you might guess, we love music, and therefore we also have lots of music festivals during summer!

Some of the most notable ones are Summerburst, Swedish Rock, Bråvalla, and Way out West.

Gröna Lund

Much like Liseberg, Gröna Lund is an amusement park, but it’s located in the Capital. Here you can also see performances and concerts during summer. It’s a bit smaller than Liseberg, but it’s one of the most popular things to do in Stockholm with children.

Hike the Höga Kusten trail

Enjoy hiking? Then you should take a closer look at the Höga Kusten trail, where you can experience some real scenic views!

Celebrate Valborg

Another traditional festivity in Sweden, which is celebrated on the last day of April each year. Basically, we are lighting up a huge bonfire and dance around it and socialize.

Attend the medieval week

Every year there is a medieval week on the island of Gotland. It’s a real mecca for people who love the medieval heritage and history, and you get the chance to live out your fantasies, with “real” battles and tournaments as well as old markets and such.

Definitely one of the fun things to do in Sweden if you have an interest in the medieval era.

See the best hotels in Sweden

Try some Swedish food

Sill, köttbullar, kalops, smörgåsbord, renskav, toast Skagen, and raggmunk are some of the unique Swedish food dishes, but there are much more, and some dishes are seasonal as well.

However, one shouldn’t miss out on trying the Swedish cuisine as it will likely be something that you haven’t experienced before.

Swedish restaurants are of a very high standard in general as well.

Photo: Shutterstock

10 Things to do in Sweden during summer

Want to know what to do in Sweden during Summer? Here are 10 of my favorite activities! 

Enjoy the beaches

Whenever the sun comes out during summer, Swedes will hurry to the beach to soak up the sun. If you want a good spot on the popular beaches, you need to go early. But, you should, because the Swedish beaches are absolutely lovely, especially in the South with the finest sand!

But do be prepared, the water will most likely be “cold,” at least if you’re a “badkruka” like me (meaning that I don’t like to bathe whenever it’s not warm.”

Photo: Conny Fridh/imagebank.sweden.se

Bicycle around the island Ven

One of the most popular things to do in Southern Sweden is to bicycle around the small island of Hven. It’s a fun activity, no matter if you travel as a couple or family.

Spoil yourself at Ystad Saltsjöbad

In the small picturesque city of Ystad, you can enjoy one of the finest spa hotels in Sweden, namely “Ystad’s Saltsjöbad.” Besides having a really gorgeous sea-view, the treatments are absolutely amazing as well.

Catch the midnight sun

The midnight sun is a true spectacle that everyone should experience! If you’re not familiar with it or know what it is, it’s literally the sun during midnight. In the northern part of Sweden, the sun never sets during summer, meaning you can enjoy 24 hours of light.

To catch the midnight sun is one of the coolest things to do in Sweden during summer!

Photo: Tomas Utsi/imagebank.sweden.se

Visit Astrid Lindgren’s fairytale world

Traveling to Sweden with children? Then you should definitely write down Astrid Lindgren’s World on your list of things to do in Sweden. Remember Pippi Longstocking, Ronia the robber’s daughter, Mio min Mio, Karlsson on the roof and the Brothers Lionheart?

Here you can meet the characters and let your kids play in the imaginary world that has been built here with scenes from the movies.

Go for a hike

Swedish nature is beautiful, and there are many hiking trails around the country. Just pick one close to you, and you’ll get a nice hiking experience with scenic views. Bring some snacks on your day trip and have a picnic with your family.

Visit the castles of Sweden

Do you like castles and history? There’s an abundance of old castles in Sweden, especially in the Southern part of the country. Some of the most notable castles are Drottningholm, Gripsholms Castle, Kalmar Castle and Läckö Castle.

Pick blueberries and strawberries

Have you ever plucked wild blueberries or strawberries? Well, probably not, but in Sweden, you can do it! During summer there are almost endless amounts of blueberries and strawberries to pick, either in the forests or large strawberry plantations in Skåne.

Definitely one of the fun things to do in Sweden!

Rent a boat and relax

A popular thing to do in Sweden among locals is to go out by their boat and just relax. As a tourist, you might not be able to bring your own boat, but if you want to spend a nice summer day at sea, it’s possible to rent your own boat!

Stay in a red cottage

The red cottages of Sweden are a part of our identity and culture. It’s a symbol for the peaceful Sweden and its beautiful nature. Whenever I see a red cottage in the woods, I feel like I’m home, and it brings a lot of childhood memories.

And if you’re visiting Sweden during summer, especially with children or your loved one, it’s perfect to stay in a red cottage. It might not be luxurious, but it would be memorable, romantic and fun! Besides, you’ll also have the beautiful Mother Earth right next to you!

10 Things to do in Sweden during winter

Want to know what to do in Sweden during winter? Here are 10 of my favorite activities! 

Catch the northern lights in Abisko

If you’re looking for a magical experience that you will never forget, this is it. Abisko is a small town in Northern Sweden, that is famous for its Northern Lights. While there’s never a 100% chance to see the magical lights, there’s a good chance of doing it in Abisko.

Photo: Hjalmar Andersson/imagebank.sweden.se

Attend an Ice-hockey game

Ice-hockey is regarded as the national sport of Sweden along with Football. And in winter time there is no football, but plenty of ice-hockey games. Almost every larger city in Sweden has their own Ice-hockey team, but the most famous ones are perhaps Leksand, Frölunda, AIK, HV-71, Färjestad and Malmö Redhawks.

It might not be the NHL but Sweden’s Hockey League is highly regarded, and many of the most successful hockey players are from Sweden originally.

Some of the most famous ones include Peter Forsberg, Nicklas Lidström, Mats Sundin, Tommi Salo, Sedin Brothers and of course the one and only Henrik Lundqvist, the famous Rangers goalie.

Ice skating in Kungsträdgården

During spring the beautiful King’s Garden in central Stockholm is turned into a pink heaven with cherry blossom. But during winter it’s turned into a romantic and lovely place to go for ice skating.

Each winter a rink is set up with plenty of space for ice skaters. Don’t worry about bringing your skates to Sweden; you can rent some for as little as 4 Euro.

Snowmobile ride

Perhaps one of the most popular things to do in Northern Sweden, where there is more snow and for a longer period. The snowmobile is a great way of transportation, but it’s also a lot of fun and definitely one of the unique things to do in Sweden as a tourist!

Photo: Mikko Nikkinen/imagebank.sweden.se

Hit the ski slopes

While we might not have the Alps or the Rocky Mountains, we do have some great ski slopes in Sweden. The most popular place to go skiing is Åre, where you can also enjoy some great after ski parties.

Join a “Julbord”

As said earlier, to try the Swedish cuisine is one of the top things to do in Sweden, but even better is perhaps to join our famous “Julbord” translated into English it would be Christmas table, but what it really means is that you gather family or friends or co-workers and feast on Christmas food and liquor.

Every winter you attend many “julbord” if you’re a Swede, so to experience some real Swedish culture, you shouldn’t miss out on this if you visit Sweden during winter.

Make a snow angel

Have you ever made a snow angel? If you come from a country where there is snow, you might have, but otherwise, you totally should go and make a snow angel while visiting Sweden during winter!

Enjoy a sauna

Ever heard of a Sauna? It’s a wooden room that gets heated up. According to tradition, you’re supposed to skinny dip in the snow or do as the Finns, and take a bath in ice cold water before you enter the sauna.

Whatever you prefer, a real Swedish/Finnish sauna is a lovely experience, that’s also really healthy for your body.

Drink Glögg and eat gingerbread

Try our winter beverage “Glögg”, it’s a bit similar to Glüwhein, and we drink it mostly around Christmas time, but you can buy it during the winter period. It’s well accompanied with gingerbread, especially the ones from the brand “Anna’s Pepparkakor”

10 Famous Swedish tourist attractions

Vasa museum.

At the Vasa Museum, you can find one of the most well-preserved ships from the 1600’s. The Vasa ship is remarkable and shouldn’t be missed if you’re going to Stockholm.

Photo: Ola Ericson/imagebank.sweden.se

Drottningholm

This castle is located outside Stockholm in Ekerö, and it’s currently the residence of the Swedish King and Queen along with the Royal family. A popular tourist attraction in Sweden!

It is said that Sigtuna is the first city in Sweden, founded in 980 A.D, and it’s well-preserved and a famous tourist attraction where you can see some traditional Swedish architecture.

You can also see some rune stones and ruins. If you have some days in Stockholm, you should consider going on a day trip here as it’s only about 45 minutes away!

Göta Canal

Go for a boat ride at the Göta Canal, and experience what is called the greatest feat of engineering in Sweden. The Canal goes all the way from Gothenburg to Stockholm and is one of the most famous tourist attractions.

Interested in the Swedish Viking heritage? Then you should head to Birka, which was the biggest commercial area in the Viking area. You can easily get here by boat, and if you fancy a more traditional ride, you can opt for a replica of the old Viking boats.

In Birka they also display what the daily life looked like during the Viking era.

Turning Torso

The twisted skyscraper has become one of the most famous tourist attractions and buildings in Sweden. With its unique architecture, it’s definitely a masterpiece that shouldn’t be missed if you visit Malmö.

Old Town in Stockholm

A classic tourist attraction in Sweden and one of the top things to do in Stockholm is to stroll around the Old Town.

With its rich history from the Stockholm Bloodbath and small alleys filled with art galleries, cafés, and some beautiful houses, the Old Town in Stockholm is something you should write down on your list of things to do in Sweden!

Lund’s Dome Church

One of Sweden’s most beautiful churches and a must visit if you like churches and see yourself being in the Southern part of Sweden. Lund is a “small” picturesque student town that lies between Helsingborg and Malmö.

Feskekörka

A market hall in Gothenburg, where you can enjoy the fresh delicacies from the sea.

City Wall of Visby

Fancy some medieval history? The city wall of Visby is still standing and is one of Sweden’s most famous tourist attractions. It stretches all around Visby, which is a beautiful summer destination filled with life and movement.

Photo by: Tuukka Ervasti/imagebank.sweden.se

15 Places to Visit in Sweden

Below are some of my favorite places to visit in Sweden.

The last free wilderness of Europe. A precious natural area filled with forests and wildlife, and not so many humans. Perfect for hiking, dog sledding, snowmobiling and of course the most delicious fresh water source (yes you can drink it straight from the fjords).

The Stockholm Archipelago

Perhaps one of the most popular things to do in Sweden is to visit the Stockholm archipelago. Islands and islets in abundance right outside the capital Stockholm. In summer many Swedes go here to enjoy bathing and relaxing in their summerhouses.

A boat ride through the archipelago is definitely one of the top things to do in Sweden as a tourist!

The Gothenburg Archipelago

If you’ve already been to the Stockholm Archipelago, I urge you to explore the Gothenburg Archipelago, which is at least as beautiful as the archipelago in Stockholm. Hundreds of small islands and islets are waiting to be explored!

Skåne

My beautiful home-region in Sweden filled with endless fields of canola and vegetation. Hills and lonely trees, beautiful houses and beaches and of course our unique accent of the Swedish language.

Some would even claim that Skåne is the most charming region to visit in Sweden, especially during summer when everything is brought back to life after the winter.

Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi

Have you ever stayed at an Ice Hotel? Well, in Jukkasjärvi you can. The whole hotel is made up of Ice, and this is really one of the coolest places to visit in Sweden ! But book your stay well ahead, because it is indeed popular among tourists.

The medieval Mecca and summer destination Gotland offers beautiful nature, heritage, and history as well as great parties during summer. Gotland is a great place to enjoy the Swedish summer.

One of the most underrated places in Sweden. Kullaberg is a beautiful area outside the city of Helsingborg. Pristine beaches, hiking trails and scenic views and a relaxing environment makes it a great destination for relaxing and just enjoying the beauty of Swedish summer.

Visit a Sami village

Did you know that the Sami people have been living in Sweden for centuries? and they still up to this date have their own language and culture. The best region for visiting a Sami village is in Lapland.

Lola Akinmade Åkerström/imagebank.sweden.se

Harasjömåla

If you want to experience the beauty and serenity of Southern Swedish nature, Harasjömåla is a great place to visit. Here you can enjoy lots of outdoor activities, even though the salmon fishing is the most popular thing to do here.

The jumping rainbow-salmons are in abundance here at the lakes around Harasjömåla in the region of Blekinge.

Kosterhavet

There are no vehicles allowed on the Koster islands, which is also the first marine national park in Sweden. Here you can go kayaking, bicycling and seal safari, just to mention a few activities.

Each summer Marstrand is being visited by celebrities and royals, and once you’ve been there it shouldn’t come as a surprise. It’s a lovely place to visit where you can enjoy colorful wooden houses, sailing boats, guest harbor, gourmet food and much more.

Österlen

Considered by many as the best vacation spot in Sweden, and even though I personally think there are better ways to spend your holidays in Sweden, I can’t really argue that Österlen is truly beautiful. Österlen is the area that makes up the eastern part of Region Skåne.

The landscapes are gorgeous and the quaint little towns are equally wonderful to stay in. During summer many locals from Stockholm travel here where they have summer houses. It’s also a popular spot for campers and campervans.

Conny Fridh/imagebank.sweden.se

Regarded as the cultural capital of Sweden, Uppsala is a great place to visit in Sweden, especially during summer. Nowadays it’s a lively student town, but you can still experience some old cafés and buildings in the old town.

Along the northern coast of the Baltic Sea, you can visit the UNESCO-world heritage site Gammelstad . It’s a historic church town, and even though there are other towns that are similar this is one of the most well-preserved ones. Here stand around 420 wooden cottages that surround the 15th century stone church.

Perhaps best known for its beautiful castle, but it’s actually a lovely city with some amazing architecture. The Castle is, however, magnificent and shouldn’t be missed if you like to visit castles!

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There are actually a lot more than 55 things to do in Sweden, even though we are a relatively small country, however, these are some of the most popular and nice activities. If you’re from Sweden or have traveled around, and have some more tips on things to do in Sweden, please share your tips in the comment section!

If you want to have some more tips on a specific region or other things to do in Sweden, don’t hesitate, leave a comment below and I will give you some nice insider tips! 

Friday 21st of June 2019

Hey Alexander, Thanks for a great article. My GF and I will be coming to Sweden for the first time at the beginning of September for about 3 to 4 days. We are open to everything and have already purchased a "Stockholm pass". Do you have any other suggestions that might be a little bit more local to do around that time? Would you recommend just staying in Stockholm or maybe even venturing out to another neighboring region or city? Thank you!

Alexander Waltner

Hey Daniel,

Thanks for your comment. How exciting that you will be coming to Sweden! September is a great time to visit as well. For 3-4 days, I would probably just stay around in Stockholm. There's a lot to see, and I also suggest that you plan 1 day to see the Stockholm Archipelago, or even 2 days if you want to explore several islands.

You can also manage a day trip to Sigtuna or Uppsala, but there really is enough things to do in Stockholm for 3-4 days. Do you have any special interests? It would be easier to suggest things then.

Paul Cubillos

Thursday 30th of May 2019

Alex, My wife and I are traveling to Sweden for vacation. We will arrive on June 16 and leave on the 27th. With all the items that you have on this fantastic list, I would like to see your opinion on what I should prioritize. My wife and I like Items based on history, culture, food tasting, and beautiful scenic landscapes. I look forward to your suggestions. Thank you

Friday 14th of June 2019

Hello Paul, sorry for the late reply. Haven't seen your comment. Will you be traveling around Sweden or stay in any specific area? I think the north is the best for scenic landscapes, but it takes quite some time to travel around there, so better to just fly out to Kiruna and stay 2-3 nights and rent a car. Unless you want to prioritize nature experiences of course.

Culture and history wise you're best to visit Stockholm area, Gothenburg area and Southern Sweden. If you have the time I highly recommend traveling around Österlen in Southern Sweden. There are many charming cities such as Ystad, and the landscapes are beautiful this time of the year.

Foodwise, there are several restaurants in Stockholm that serve up traditional Swedish food, but there is so much to say about Swedish food, so perhaps better to read my article about Swedish food.

Feel free to write me an email or leave a comment here with more specifics on where you're planning to travel, because Sweden is a very long country.

Tuesday 28th of May 2019

Alex, This is a great list of things to do. My wife and I are traveling to Sweden from the 16th through the 27th of June and will be our first time here. I will be in Malmo to start for two days for business then it will be a vacation. With all these places to see I would like to narrow a list of the most popular places. We arrive in Copenhagen and I was planning on renting a car. We are typically interested in history, definitely castles, snow scapes, food, tours, and culture. Could you suggest some of the must see places for our short time there. Thank you!!!

Oh, I see now that you mention that you will be in Malmö and arrive in Copenhagen. That's great, then you will be traveling around my home grounds of Southern Sweden. There will be no snow in Sweden this time of year, or maybe at the highest mountain Kebnekaise in the north, but that would be the only place.

Renting a car is a great idea, and you can do this cheaply. If you haven't already rented a car, I want to give you a local tips to rent via the gas stations. They usually have better deals than car rental companies in Sweden. From 30-50 USD per day.

Some castles in "Skåne" that you could visit (slott means castle in Swedish) - Marsvinsholms slott, Kronovalls slott, Trolleholm Slott, Trollenäs slott, the citadel in Landskrona. If you have time I recommend getting the boat to Ven from Landskrona, it's a beautiful island where you can bike around for a day and later come back.

Traveling north you should start either on the left or right side of the country. Perhaps the right is better, because you have some impressive castles there such as Kalmar slott and Örebro slott. On your way to Stockholm you also have Gripsholm Slott, Drottningholm slott, and many more.

A local food tip would be to stop along the way in some smaller towns and eat at a "gästgiveri" which is the old restaurants in mansions that travelers used to stop for a meal back in the old days before modern transport. They usually serve typical Swedish food with reasonable prices as well.

Monday 28th of January 2019

Hi, I was born in Pitea and spent a lot of my life in Lovikka, Kiruna but I am bringing my daughter, husband and son 11 yrs old who are active but also want to see the country! Jukkasarvi has a ice hotel and they and me too want to see that..there is so much I want to show them, but I have so many cousins in the north who want to see us too..just don't want to spend the time just with family..how about the train to Narvik to see the Norway coast.. just wish we had more than 2 weeks to see it all..we will either train it or rent a car in the south ..any suggestions ? Love your blog with so many suggestions..coming in July-August so nice weather for Pitea Havsbad, etc!!..

Hello Anita, July and August will be amazing! in regards to the Icehotel, it would probably be wise to reach out to them already now and check availability. I haven't been there during summer, so their Ice suites may have a lower capacity, but I'm not sure. I think you should definitely go with the train to Narvik, but if you're comfortable renting a car, it will be smoother to get around. Public transport is not the best up in the north outside the cities, so the rental car will give you a better experience I think. Especially since you're on limited time in Sweden, and have some other family stuff already planned.

Jared Glazier

Friday 11th of January 2019

I am bringing my family to Sweden in late March.

I am interested in the IceHotel. Have you been there? Is it worth going?

Thanks, Jared

Sunday 27th of January 2019

Hello Jared, yes totally worth it :) But also depends on what you want to do. There will still be chances of seeing the Northern lights.

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10 Places to Visit in Sweden That Aren't Stockholm

By Caitlin Morton and Katherine LaGrave

Sweden is known for many things: interior design, edgy fashion, meatballs, and ABBA (obviously). And the best part? It can all be experienced in Stockholm , the country's dynamic capital. And while Stockholm should be a stop on every traveler's Swedish itinerary, there's so much more to this California-sized country than one urban hub. There are islands to sail to, national parks to explore, and ice hotels to sleep in. Here are ten of the best spots to start exploring once you've had your fill of the city.

Tiny Ystad—the setting of author Henning Mankell's Kurt Wallander crime series—is a seaside town that seemingly has it all: world-class museums; colorful, timbered houses; sun-kissed squares; and nearly 25 miles of sandy beaches. Scandinavia's largest film studio, Ystad Studios, is also located in town.

Sarek National Park, Lapland

Considered by adventure guides to be one of Europe's last true wilderness areas, Sarek National Park lays claim to six of Sweden's 13 highest mountains and nearly 100 glaciers within its borders north of the Arctic Circle. The national park, one of Europe's oldest, is popular with hikers, but also draws visitors for its wildlife—think Arctic foxes, wolverines, moose, wolves, and more.

Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city, and a cultural capital in its own right (and we're not just talking about its famous death metal scene). Come here for some of the country's best culinary offerings (don't miss the Feskekyrka food market and restaurant); the cobblestoned Haga quarter, which dates back to the 18th century; and the Gothenburg Museum of Art. When you've had your fill of exploring the city, head out to the Bohuslän islands, which run from Gothenburg to the Norwegian coast and are known for scenic coastal villages , fresh seafood, and kayaking.

Fårö Island, Baltic Sea

In a country with unique landscapes at every turn, Fårö stands out: The entire island is made of limestone and has so many stretching rock formations (pictured) that it is oddly picturesque. (Famed Swedish director Ingmar Bergman fell in love with the island in large part for this very reason ; shooting six films and one television series here, as well as building a home.) Connected by ferry to the larger island of Gotland, Fårö is a popular summer destination for Swedes.

Jessica Puckett

Jamie Spain

Yulia Denisyuk

Ikya Kandula

Visby, Gotland Island

Visby, Gotland's only town, was once a major Viking trading settlement but is today 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 eighteenth century.

Jukkasjärvi

Jukkasjärvi has less than 600 full-time residents, but most don't come here to make friends: Instead, they flock to this tiny locality for its aptly named Icehotel, which 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.

Drottningholm Palace

Located 45 minutes outside of Stockholm, on the island of Lovön, Drottningholm is the current private home of the Swedish Royal Family . The complex was originally built in the sixteenth century and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, with the committee calling it "the finest example of an eighteenth-century north European royal residence inspired by the Palace of Versailles ."

Picturesque Marstrand is best known for its seventeenth-century fortress Carlsten, named after King Carl X Gustav of Sweden, which looms large over the town. The idyllic island is also popular with sailors and serves as the base for the annual Marstrand Regatta, Match Cup Sweden, and more.

Abisko National Park, Lapland

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.

Sweden's third-largest city is a veritable mix of old-meets-new: Here, you'll find a well-preserved Old Town, cosmopolitan waterfront, cozy cafes, a sixteenth-century city park , cutting-edge cuisine , and two modern engineering marvels in Santiago Calatrava's Turning Torso and the cable-strayed Øresund Bridge, which connects the city to Copenhagen, Denmark .

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15 Things to See & Do in Stockholm

Discover one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval centres, enormous palaces, and an array of stunning museums – all spread out over 14 gorgeous islands. Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden’s enthralling, elegant capital.

Whether you’re here for a Swedish honeymoon , city break, or Scandinavian road trip, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Stockholm. It’s a calm and charming capital city that boasts a surprising mix of cultural sights, outdoor fun, and fabulous cuisine.

To get inspired, read on to explore 15 of the best things to see and do in Stockholm.

1. Marvel at the beautiful Gamla Stan

On a visit to Stockholm, you’ll likely head to the city centre first. That’s Gamla Stan, the enchanting Old Town. With its pristine cobbled streets and colourful buildings, you’re sure to fall completely in love.

The bustling Stortorget square is one highlight of this fairy-tale district, perfectly placed to stop for a drink or just to watch people pass. Explore the attractive pedestrianised roads beyond the main square and you’ll find a rich array of delightful bars, cafés, and shops – plus so much more too.

Of course, Gamla Stan hosts many of Stockholm’s top tourist attractions as well, including the Royal Palace and the Stockholm Cathedral.

• Explore Stockholm on one of these top Swedish vacation packages

2. Discover world-class museums at Djurgården

Of Stockholm’s islands, one of the most popular to visit is Djurgården. It makes up a large part of the Royal National City Park, where local Stockholmers go to relax among the abundant forests and meadows.

For visitors to the city, the biggest draw to Djurgården is the island’s incredible array of museums. There’s really something for everyone.

ABBA the Museum, for example, tells the story of the career of Sweden’s greatest musical export. Here, you’ll get the chance to dress like ABBA, sing along, and write music yourself.

Alternatively, the Nordic Museum takes you further back in time, to the very origins of Swedish history. Or there’s Skansen, an open-air museum that shares exhibits on Sweden’s traditional people and ways of life.

Don’t miss the Vasa Museum, one of the most visited museums in all of Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden). It’s home to the world’s only preserved 17th-century boat, that sank in Stockholm harbour on its maiden voyage back in 1628. It’s an impressive, tangible part of history.

• Related: Top cities and towns in Sweden to visit

3. Explore Stockholm’s waterways

You may have heard people refer to the Swedish capital as the “Venice of the North”, thanks to its many waterways and splendid early modern architecture. Yet the similarities end there, and the city’s nickname doesn’t really do justice to Stockholm’s relationship with the water that surrounds it.

The whole Stockholm archipelago spreads across 80 kilometres (50 miles) and over 30,000 islands, divided by channels you can explore by boat. These range from the tiniest uninhabited islets to well-developed and bustling holiday resorts.

No visit to the city would be complete without taking to the water. In fact, it could be one of the most romantic things to do in Stockholm.

4. Take a dip in Lake Mälaren

Continuing your journey on Stockholm’s waters, why not visit Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third-largest freshwater lake? Its easternmost bays are on the outskirts of the city and easily accessed from the centre.

If the city’s waters tempt you to a swim, Lake Mälaren is the best place to do it. In the summer, you’ll be in plenty of company. In fact, Stockholmers have been swimming here for centuries and the city’s warm summers make a dip a very attractive idea.

If not, Lake Mälaren also offers the opportunity for wildlife walks and scenic views. It’s definitely worth the trip out of town.

• Head to Stockholm during the warmest months of the year on a Sweden summer tour

5. Get lost in the vast Royal Palace

Back on dry land, one of the most fascinating ways to spend a day in Stockholm is in Gamla Stan’s Royal Palace. While still the official residence of the Swedish royal family, this 18th-century building is one of Stockholm’s most visited sights.

The Royal Palace is also among Europe’s largest palaces, boasting over 600 rooms. But the King of Sweden still works here today, so you won’t be able to visit them all yourself.

Nonetheless, the Palace offers an amazing amount to see and do. The Royal Apartments, for example, give you a glimpse into the real life of Scandinavian royalty. And the Museum of Antiquities is renowned for its collection of 17th-century Italian sculpture.

• Discover more palaces and castles on these  Scandinavian royalty tours

6. Join the fun at Gröna Lund amusement park

We said that the island of Djurgården has something for everyone. For families on holiday in Sweden , and the young at heart, the island’s famed amusement park – Gröna Lund – is a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Thanks to its city-centre location, Gröna Lund is smaller than the amusement parks you might be familiar with. Yet its miniature size doesn’t limit its offering, with rides that range from the thrilling to the family friendly.

In the evening, you could attend concerts by international musical artists. Seeing a gig beneath Stockholm’s long sunsets could be one of the best things to do in Stockholm at night!

7. Witness the history of geniuses at the Nobel Prize Museum

Sweden is the home of the  Nobel Prize , the annual awards recognising some of the greatest minds in literature, science, and more. If you’re interested in the history and winners of the prize – and even if you didn’t think you were interested – there’s plenty of awesome things to see.

Of course, the Nobel Prize Museum is one of the best places for you to start. Its permanent exhibitions share an important story about the history of creativity. And you can enjoy guided tours, DJ sets, and events from Nobel laureates too.

8. Unwind in one of Stockholm’s spas

One of the best things to do in Stockholm as a couple is to visit a spa. With fantastic options across the city, you’ll be truly spoiled for choice.

Centralbadet, in the heart of Gamla Stan, is an ideal option for visitors. In a building dating back to 1904, you’ll find a typical Nordic sauna, an incredible swimming pool, and everything you’ll need to while away the afternoon.

Alternatively, to the southwest of the city, discover the Hellasgården park and lake. Stockholmers come here to dip in the ice pool before heading to the nearby sauna.

• Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions

9. Try authentic Swedish food

Scandinavian cuisine is an increasingly popular option in hip eateries around the world. Yet one of the best places to try it in all its glory is Stockholm.

Check out the city’s food courts to sample the pastries, sweets, meats, or beers on offer. The Östermalm Market Hall, for example, is a Stockholm institution to the north of Gamla Stan. Alternatively, in the summer at Hornstulls Marknad, you’ll find contemporary street food stalls lining the waterway.

Of course, while you’re in town, try traditional Swedish delicacies such as Swedish meatballs (köttbullar), fried or cured fish, and reindeer. They’re easy to sample in many of Gamla Stan’s historic restaurants.

• Delve into the secrets of Sweden on these history and culture Scandinavia tours

10. Stroll around Södermalm

If you want seriously cool things to do in Stockholm, you’ll need to head to Södermalm – or just Söder, as the locals call it. It’s a district known for its hip and relaxed atmosphere, as well as its creative and trendy residents.

Explore vintage stores and boutiques, coffee shops and galleries, and bars open long into the night. For an afternoon stroll, there’s really nowhere better.

Södermalm is also where you can enjoy some of the best views over the city. The Skinnarviksberget, for example, is the highest point in Stockholm.

11. Visit the photography museum at Fotografiska

One truly unmissable destination in Södermalm is Fotografiska, Stockholm’s renowned photography museum. But like everything in this surprising district, Fotografiska is far from your normal gallery space.

That means you won’t find museum staples like permanent exhibitions or works for sale. Rather, Fotografiska’s work aims to inspire a better world through the medium of photography. As a result, it’s all about the experience – including political exhibitions, events, fine dining, and more.

Unsurprisingly, Fotografiska also has one of the coolest bars in this part of town.

12. Take the metro

Now, you might not think it sounds much like a destination. But Stockholm’s extensive metro is more than just a transit system. It’s a unique art gallery that’s worth a visit on its own.

Journey along Stockholm’s metro and you’ll see its diverse surprises yourself. Each station is eccentrically decorated in artworks, sculpture, rock formations, and mosaics, created by over 150 different local artists.

It’s an important part of Stockholm’s culture and a testament to its residents’ creativity. Try the blue line, which has some of the most exciting displays.

• Related: Cool facts about Sweden

13. Go to a show at the Royal Swedish Opera

If you’re looking for glamorous things to do in Stockholm at night, a trip to the Royal Swedish Opera might be the answer. Set in the 18th-century opera house across the water from the Royal Palace, this is the home of elegance, high culture, and serious talent.

Whether you want ballet, opera, or just a powerful symphony, you’ll find it on the programme here. Winter is a magical time to catch a performance. And during the summer you may have the opportunity to see the Royal Swedish Ballet perform in Vitabergsparken, a public park in Södermalm.

• Related: Guide to Sweden in summer  & Guide to Sweden in winter

14. Climb the tower at Stockholm City Hall

With its solid red-brick façade and iconic tower, the Stockholm City Hall is one of the most recognisable features of the city’s skyline. It’s primarily an official building, hosting political and cultural events.

A look inside makes for a rewarding visit. For example, you can see the hall that hosts the Nobel banquet, where the world’s greatest minds receive their awards.

The highlight of the City Hall is the tower itself. Climb to the top to reach the three crowns of Sweden’s national coat of arms. It’s a truly jaw-dropping view over the city.

15. Chill out with fika

Finally, a trip to Sweden wouldn’t be complete without sampling one of Sweden’s best-loved traditions: fika .

Fika is the simple act of taking time out to enjoy a cup of coffee (or kaffi , in Swedish) and a snack. Yet the Swedes have made this ritual into an art. Fika’s not about just enjoying a pick-me-up. Rather, it’s time to socialise, check in with each other, and unwind.

You can enjoy fika at any café in Stockholm, in Gamla Stan or Södermalm.

• Related: The Swedish art of fika

Explore the best of Stockholm’s things to see with Nordic Visitor

Palaces and parks, saunas and spas, museums and markets – now you know what to do in Stockholm.

Book a trip with Nordic Visitor and we’ll take all the hassle out of your visit. We’ll organise your accommodation, activities, and regional transport in Sweden, plus any onward tours around Scandinavia.

What’s more, we’ll provide all the insights you need to experience Stockholm to the fullest. Our local travel experts are based in the Swedish capital and will share the best cultural highlights to suit you, as well as the top places to eat, drink, and relax too.

You could opt for an independent train trip or self-drive tour of Sweden to explore at your own pace. Or choose a small group tour of Scandinavia to discover Stockholm and other exciting places in the region, like Copenhagen and Oslo, with an expert guide.

Come and experience Stockholm for yourself. Get in touch to start your trip .

Wanderlust has taken Emma across much of the world, but it was Scotland that she made her adopted home. Aside from enjoying countryside walks, campervan weekends and gigs in Glasgow, you’ll often find her writing about European travel and plotting her next trip.

Getting there

We'd love to give you the same amazing travel experiences as you read about in our blog! To visit the destinations and attractions mentioned in this post - and to discover a few new highlights along the way - check out these recommended Nordic Visitor tours.

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The 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sweden

Published on 01/22/2018. Modified on 12/12/2019

Every year Swedes have the chance to vote and choose the most beautiful places in Sweden as well as many other aspects of their daily life, their society and its way of working. This data gets compiled in a study called Samhällsbarometern or The Society’s Barometer.

Many of us like to visit places recommended by locals and see and do the things that they tell us are worth. That’s why I decided to explain to you, who are planning a trip to Sweden, which are the most beautiful locations to visit in Sweden as voted by Swedes (mine might differ a bit but that’s a matter of another article).

The results of the voting in 2017 reveal that Swedes chose the following destinations:

1. Stockholm’s Archipelago

An astounding 43% of more than 2500 Swedes that took part on the survey answered that Stockholm’s archipelago is the most beautiful place to visit in the country. Long-time readers of this blog already know how I avidly encourage anyone visiting Stockholm for 5 or more days to use one of them to get away to the archipelago in one of the many boat tours available . Some boat trips are only scheduled during high season but other all year round.

if you are in Stockholm for a shorter stay, between the end of April and the beginning of September, get on a boat to nearby Fjäderholmarna islands* less than 25 minutes away from the city. The boat trip is included in the Stockholm Pass tourist card .

With plenty on time you can wander through almost unhabited islands like Grinda or visit popular holiday destinations like Sandhamn or Vaxholm . Believe me, Swedes know what they are talking about and they are willing to share their secret regarding the archipelago!

Strömma offers guided cruises in Stockholm and the archipelago and day trips on your own . Check here for a list of 16 Boat Tours in Stockholm .

2. Gamla Stan in Stockholm

A 33% of the surveyed Swedes voted for Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old City Center, as one of the most beautiful spots in the country. They are onto something there as the old foundational island is a must-see for all of you who are planning a visit to Stockholm. Remember that you can wander alone through the cobblestone streets but also join a free tour guide of Gamla Stan which will help you unravel the best kept secrets from long ago.

3. Höga Kusten – The High Coast

Unknown for many “non-Swedes” The High Coast ranks 3rd on the list of beautiful destinations in Sweden. The Höga Kusten – high by Swedish standards (being Sweden a “flat country”, 286 meters / 940 ft. above sea level is considered high!) – is a destination located between the cities of Härnosand and Örnsköldsvik (… did you manage to pronounce that tongue twister? Try [oerns-hoelds-veek]), that is 450 km / 280 mi north of Stockholm.

The High Coast works splendidly as a hiking destination and delivers excellent views of the Baltic Sea. The surrounding area features two national parks: Skuleskogen National Park and Ulvön’s Island National Park. This unique place was chosen in the year 2000 by Unesco as a World Heritage Site.

4. Gothenburg’s Archipelago and Bohuslän Coast

One of my favourite places in Sweden which I have visited many times is Gothenburg’s archipelago and the West Coast from the Göta river to Strömstad at the Norwegian border. Swedes also think this location deserves to be featured among the loveliest places to visit in Sweden and I’m happy about it. You should come and see! Way different than Stockholm’s archipelago but still by the sea.

Strömma also offers boat tours, cruises and sightseeing in Gothenburg .

5. Lake Siljan

Dalarna is considered to be the most Swedish of all regions. It features the most music-friendly of all lakes too: lake Siljan. Every summer, in the beginning of July, a week long series of events and concerts by the name Musik vid Siljan take place by the lake and attracts a lot of people interested in music. The beautiful natural surroundings offers a place with activities for the whole family: horse riding, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, … Great panoramic views from the lake and the area are available at the top of mount Gesunda.

Don’t forget to visit Orsa Grönklitt to the north of Lake Siljan which is Europe’s largest park for predators and is visited by 100,000 people every year.

6. Gotland’s “raukar”

These monolithic stones are one of the symbols of Gotland (the others being its medieval capital Visby and the uncountable sheep and lambs standing everywhere :D …). Gotland and its raukar are a tourist mecca both for Swedens and foreigners who visit the island and its coast mainly during the months of June and July.

You can get to Gotland by plane from several cities in Sweden (Stockholm Bromma Airport or Gothenburg Landvetter Airport). During the summer a broader offer of flights is available from other cities and airports like Skavsta, Malmö, Sundsvall or Norrköping. All year round Gotland is accessible by ferry from Nynäshamn or, if you are on a roadtrip through Småland, from the port at Oskarshamn.

7. Kungsleden

The King’s Trail or Kungsleden is one of the world’s most renowned trails and probably one of the best to hike. The trail goes from Abisko in Swedish Lapland to Hemavan (400 km / 250 mi to the south) following a path designed by the Swedish Tourism Organization in the early 1900s. The changes in the landscape are astounding featuring both alpine sceneries in Lapland to forests full of birch trees, clear lakes, small villages and mount tops. In its totality the path goes through 4 national parks: Abisko, Stora Sjöfallet, Sarek and Pieljekaise. During the hike you will also have the chance to meet a lot of reindeer shepperds who are out with their flocks.

The STF hostel network has 16 cottages available for hikers every 10-20 km / 6-12 mi where you can spend the night. If you are an experienced hiker and would like to get more information check this website about the King’s Trail .

8. Ales Stenar

These monolithic stones known as Ales’ Stones are located in the southern part of Sweden in the county of Scania, close to Ystad and Åbo, where Absolut Vodka saw life, and are one of the most visited and beloved places by Swedes. This is a must-see if you are preparing a roadtrip to discover Scania.

9. Marstrand

Marstrand is an island located to the north of Gothenburg which features a fortress from the 17th century as a biggest attraction for foreign tourists (you can even attend a viking dinner in the fortress) while Swedes enjoy its closeness to the sea, the good fish and fresh seafood available at local eateries, and a lot of sea activities that can be done. Not surprisingly Marstrand is a crowded spot on the West Coast of Sweden during summer months. Marstrand can be reached by bus (45 minutes) or by boat (2 hours) from Gothenburg or, of course, with your own rental car.

10. Lake Vättern

Lake Vättern is Sweden’s second largest lake and well deserved a visit. Jönköping on its southern shore is a highlighted city to visit as well as other smaller destinations nearby like the village of Gränna, Visingsö island, the ruins at Brahehus or the historical town of Vadstena along the E4 motorway direction Stockholm. This view of Lake Vättern was taken by me while being a guest of the amazing Den Gyllene Uttern hotel (not to be confused with Utter Inn, the hotel with a room underwater in Lake Mälaren ).

11. Åreskutan

Åreskutan is a 1,500 meter / 5,000 ft high mountain located in the Åre area in the county of Jämtland at about 650 km / 400 mi from Stockholm. During winter time Åre is a destination where Swedes flock to enjoy ski and other typical open-air activities for the season (take a look at this offer for skiing in Åre with the promocode Sweetsweden@10 ). In summer Åre Bike Park gets the attention of mountain bikers, while hiking, paragliding, birdwatching or speleology substitute skiing and snowboarding.

Smögen is an island full of charnm located on the West Coast of Sweden and I felt deeply in love with this destination the first time I stepped my foot onto it. It is fully crowded in summer but has a lot of feeling and a seaside attitude. Just sitting watching people stroll along the water while enjoying fresh local seafood and the views of Bohuslän Coast has no price …

Smögen features one of the most photographed spots along the West Coast which is called Smögenbryggan (the deck of Smögen) where several fishermen huts in different live colours are arranged to conform a nice view.

13. The IceHotel in Jukkäsjarvi

Year after year, the world’s most famous ice hotel opens its doors in December in Swedish Lapland with renovated rooms and designs after the previous ones have melted back into Torne river that saw them coming to life. Despite the short season (end of December to the beginning of April) the ICEHOTEL in Jukkäsjarvi is the king among the iconic places to visit in northern Sweden during the winter. Therefore, it is understandable that many rank it among the most beautiful destinations in Sweden.

14. Rosendal’s Palace and Gardens

The Garden and Palace of Rosendal is located in a quiet place of Stockholm’s Djurgården island. I can recommend you a walking visit starting at Djurgården’s bridge and walking by the left shore of the island meeting first Rosendals trädgård and later on the palace (open por visits in summer). Personally, I prefer the feeling in the gardens which is all-in-one a flowershop, cafeteria and workplace.

15. Tylösand Beach

Tylösand is a beach located in Halmstad and is, probably, Sweden most popular sandy beach. By the beach, you will find the hotel spa Tylösand with bars, clubs and Sweden’s biggest art gallery with over 400 works. Tres Hombres Art, this is its name, was founded by Per Gessle, singer of Roxette.

These are Sweden’s most beautiful spots chosen by Swedes. Have you already been in Sweden? Which are yours? Which ones would you like to visit? I still have to visit some of this list so I’ll need to include them in my next big roadtrip in Sweden. I will write about it in case you want to follow my steps.

Update: We finally did our one-month long roadtrip by car in Sweden in June / July 2018 and managed to visit 8 of the 15 places mentioned in the article.

*Currently these articles are available in English by Google Translate

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About Israel Úbeda

A very interesting article with many great tips. Högakusten i for sure on my bucket list as well as Bohuskusten.

Since living in Skåne I have to make a point of visiting this area as well. There are so many nice places for photography and nature experiences.

For example, Österlen, the south eastern part of Skåne is such a beautiful place.

Feel free to read the provided link if interested.

Best regards

Dzi?kuj? Jacek for your comment. Indeed it is. We had the chance to travel for some days around Österlen during this last summer and it was wonderful! We were in the area from Ales stenar to Kristianstad through Kivik. Amazing place. And great pictures you have on your website.

Regards, Israel

thanks for putting this together. Learned about Hoga Kusten from you!

That’s where I live :D

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden)

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden)

The capital of Sweden is a cosmopolitan city with a tangled old town, stylish young districts, a dynamic city centre. Spread across 14 islands on Lake Mälaren, Stockholm’s very environment encourages you to rove and see where you’ll end up. There are around 50 bridges in the centre alone, while ferries are a fun way to get about.

When it comes to fashion, design and music Stockholm is well ahead of the curve, and many of the coolest places to shop and go out are on the island of Södermalm south of the centre. The lion’s share of the museums and family days out are on Djurgården, a wooded island where the city goes for rest, culture and fun.

Let’s explore the best thing to do in Stockholm :

1. Gamla Stan

Begin by going back to Stockholm’s roots at one of Europe’s great medieval centres, spread over three islands.

You’ll be in the midst of a true Hanseatic trading city, where gabled shops and warehouses are painted various shades of gold.

These now host all manner of restaurants, many garnering international awards, as well as museums, studios, bijou boutiques, cafes and bars.

On the eastern side of the old town there’s a long sequence of parallel cobblestone lanes leading in from the water and dipping under passageways.

Come here to squeeze through Mårten Trotzigs Gränd, an alley that tapers to just 90 centimetres across.

The visionary teacher and academic Artur Hazelius founded what was the first ever open-air museum in the world on Royal Djurgården in 1891. The idea was to show future generations what life was like in Sweden before the Industrial Age, and it has been borrowed by hundreds of museums around the world.

More than a century Skansen it’s still the best museum in its class, in 30 hectares and with a large cast recreating rural scenes from all over Sweden down to the finest detail.

A Sami camp from the Arctic circle, a farm from the remote western Härjedalen province and a open-air zoo with wolves, lynxes, otters, grey seals, reindeer and moose are a few of the attractions.

Book online : Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket

3. Vasa Museum

An awesome relic from the 17th-century reign of the all-conquering King Gustavus Adolphus has been revived at this museum the west shore of Djurgården.

The Vasa was a 64-gun warship that went down on its first voyage in 1628. It remained in the deep until 1961 when it was lifted to the surface and slowly and painstakingly restored.

The vessel has almost all of its original material and is the only 17th-century ship of this scale to make it to the present day.

And with the ship came a payload of artefacts that tell us what it was like to sail on the Vasa.

These are in ten exhibition rooms, and there’s a multilingual movie about the ship and its resurrection.

Get tickets : Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket

4. Modern Art Museum

On the island of Skeppsholmen at the Baltic Sea entrance to the city is the pick of Stockholm’s superb institutions for modern and contemporary art.

The museum started out in the 1950s in a former military building before moving into this Rafael Moneo-designed edifice at the end of the 90s.

Some of the names that even casual dabblers will know are Picasso, Marcel Duschamp, Henri Matisse and Salvador Dalí.

People also come especially for the museum’s restaurant, which looks over to Djurgården.

There’s also a sculpture with works by Picasso, Dan Graham and Alexaner Calder.

5. The Medieval Museum

In the 1970s during the construction of an underground car park builders happened upon some of Stockholm’s medieval city walls.

This is under the Norrbro bridge and measures 55 metres, and is now one of the showpieces of the city’s medieval museum.

Here you can track the history of the city from its foundation in the 13th century to the 16th century at the end of the medieval period.

Kids can dress up in armour, while other pieces of old Stockholm that came to light in the dig are part of the fun, like a 16th-century warship and a medieval graveyard.

These mingle with recreated houses, taverns and workshops.

6. Junibacken

Based on the stories of children’s author Astrid Lindgren, Junibacken is a theme park aimed at young readers.

Lindgren’s contribution to literature is indisputable and is still one of the world’s 20 most translated writers.

Her most beloved character is Pippi Longstocking, whose house, Villa Villekulla, is the final destination of a whimsical train ride through the park.

The park is designed to kindle children’s natural curiosity and abounds with niches, tunnels and miniature houses to adventure through.

Junibacken also has the largest children’s bookshop in the country, and Storybook Square is a kind of hall of fame for Sweden’s long lineup of renowned children’s authors like Elsa Beskow and Sven Nordqvist.

7. Swedish History Museum

The Swedish History Museum is anchored in the art collection of the 16th-century King Gustav Vasa, which grew with subsequent monarchs as the Empire expanded.

Now you’ll get a full chronology of Swedish history from Prehistory to the present day, with special attention on the exploits of the Vikings.

The Gold Room is literally brilliant, with more than 3,000 objects across 3,500 years of Swedish history.

Unforgettable here are the gold collars from 300-500 made from melted down Roman gold coins.

The Viking collection is as rich as you’d hope, and has artefacts from the trading post at Birka and the Mästermyr tool chest.

8. Royal Palace

With more than 600 rooms Stockholm’s Royal Palace is up there with the largest palaces in Europe.

There are five museums in this mostly 18th-century complex, which isn’t just a historical relic: The King of Sweden still lives here, most royal events and receptions happen at the palace and all the various departments associated with the royal family operate in these plush environs.

Just a brief run-down of the must-sees includes the reception rooms, the royal apartments, the Rikssalen (Hall of State) and the Ordenssalarna (Halls of the Orders of Chivalry). Of the five museums, the Treasury is predictably lavish and Gustav III’s Museum of Antiquities has ancient Greek and Roman sculptures bought by the king during his trip to Italy in 1783-84.

Full day trip : 1-day Royal Palace and Castle Tour from Stockholm

9. Fotografiska

By the water on Södermalm is one of the world’s top photography galleries.

The location is the old wharf at Stadsgården, and the attraction is in a repurposed customs building.

There are four high-profile exhibitions staged at Fotografiska per year, along with 20 smaller shows, so no two visits will ever be the same.

Just by way of intro, some of the photographers featured here recently are greats like Robert Mapplethorpe, Guy Bourdin, Irving Penn, and Akseli Vamunen (Young Nordic Photographer of the Year in 2016). The gallery’s restaurant is highly regarded and has started picking up awards, while you can contemplate Djurgården from a table at the top floor cafe.

Book online : Fotografiska Entrance Ticket

10. The City Hall

One of the buildings that makes Stockholm, well, Stockholm is the City Hall, unmistakeable for its 106-metre tower and spire.

Composed of eight million bricks it’s the perfect expression of the Nordic National Romantic style and was inaugurated in June 1923 400 years to the day after Gustav Vasa’s arrival in the city.

The dimensions of the spaces inside are spellbinding, most of all the Blue Hall where the Nobel Banquet is held every December.

After dinner, there’s a dance in the Golden Hall, which is adorned with 18 million gold mosaic tiles.

An integral part of any visit is scaling the tower and gazing over Stockholm.

Recommended tour : Guided City Hall Tour

11. Strandvägen

Beside the water on Östermalm is one of the most exclusive addresses in the city: A boulevard and esplanade with views to Gamla Stan and Skeppsholmen, and tying Djurgården to the centre of the city.

Strandvägen was plotted in the late 19th century and completed in 1897 for the Stockholm World’s Fair.

The long row of palatial apartment buildings is in the Revivalist style, epitomised by Isak Gustaf Clason’s Bünsow Building, which looks like a Loire Valley chateau.

Stockholm’s tour boats and water taxis converge on Strandvägen, and the esplanade has scores of cafes and bars for a quick refreshment before carrying on your way.

Related tour : Stockholm Archipelago Cruise with Guide

12. Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde

There’s a snapshot of turn-of-the-century royal life at Prince Eugen’s estate on Djurgården.

Eugen was a man of leisure who threw himself into the art world.

He was a prominent collector and patron, and in his youth studied fine art in Paris.

Eugen’s collection, as well as his own landscape paintings, decorate his Art Nouveau house on an estate with buildings going back to the 18th century.

This is all on a small peninsula enveloped in mature oak woodland, facing the canal that links Stockholm to the Baltic and with the city’s skyline in the background.

The estate’s flower garden is a joy in early summer, and there’s also a sculpture garden with works by the likes of Auguste Rodin.

13. ABBA: The Museum

Whatever your opinion of Sweden’s biggest pop act there’s no getting away from their cultural impact.

More than three decades after they split up their music still pops up in movies, TV shows and of course their record-breaking musical Mamma Mia.

The museum brims with ABBA memorabilia and clever touches that fans will be wild for.

One is Benny Andersson’s piano, which is connected remotely to the piano in his house and plays whatever he’s playing at home.

There’s also a phone, Ring Ring, that only the four ABBA members know the number to.

At the immersive “Waterloo” exhibit you can step back to 1974 and relive the Eurovision Song Contest that ABBA won with “Waterloo”, to kick-start their career.

Tickets available online : ABBA The Museum – Walk In, Dance Out

14. Gröna Lund

Djurgården is also the scene for Sweden’s oldest amusement park, and although Gröna Lund first opened in 1883 it is very much up to date.

New roller coasters are unveiled every few years, like the state-of-art “Insane” on which you’ll spend half the ride upside down.

Another, “Eclipse” is a swing ride more than 120 metres in height.

Away from the white-knuckle rides the littler visitors will have the time of their lives on tea cups, carousels, bumper cars and romping through fun houses.

There are concerts in the park all summer, and Paul McCartney, Bob Marley and ABBA are a few of the big names to have played here.

15. Monteliusvägen

Before or after a trip to Fotografista, mosey across to the wood and cobblestone path above the north coast of Södermalm.

In a city that has a replete with scenic views, this may be the finest of them all: You’ll get your best shots of the City Hall and Gamla Stan from this 500-metre trail, and the light at sunrise and sunset is dreamy.

Over Lake Mälaren you’ll watch the big ships hoving into view and the smaller launches darting back and forth.

There’s also an old-time feel about this residential neighbourhood, and lots of places close by to grab a cold drink in summer or warm up with “fika” in winter.

16. Nordic Museum

Artur Hazelius, founder of the Skansen Museum, also conceived this ethnographical attraction a few moments away on Djurgården.

The Nordic Museum spells out the cultural history of Sweden from about the 16th century onwards, showcasing its traditional costume and textiles, ceramics, jewellery, furniture and folk art.

You can also get a handle on the Sami, Sweden’s only indigenous culture, and dip into their history, beliefs and way of life.

Isak Gustaf Clason was hired to design the building and came up with an extraordinary Neo-Renaissance palace that was finished in 1907 after a 19-year construction and would be worth the visit alone.

17. Stortorget

A mandatory stop in Gamla Stan is the oldest square in the city at the highest point of the island.

Stockholm’s expansion in the High Middle Ages began at this very point, and you can be sure that Stortorget has seen some drama in its time.

One was the Stockholm Bloodbath of 1520 when up to 90 people were executed in the square by Danish forces.

The cannonball in the wall at the corner where Skomakargatan joins the square is said to go back to this time.

Stortorget’s beauty is in its gabled houses from the 1600s and 1700s, and the Christmas market in December when treats like ginger snaps (pepparkakor) and mulled wine (glögg) bring plenty of cheer.

Included in : Sightseeing Tour by Segway

18. Drottningholm Palace

One of Sweden’s three World Heritage Sites is on the western outskirts of Stockholm.

Drottningholm is in the French style and was conceived in 17th century.

Refinements were made over the next few hundred years when each successive monarch left his or her own mark on the palace.

There are opulent salons from the 1600s, 1700s and 1800s, but one of the remarkable details is the Palace Theatre, which dates to the 1700s and continues to stage performances to this day, unchanged.

The Chinese Pavilion, finished in 1769, is another marvel in an oriental-infused Rococo style and with interiors enriched with decorative works like porcelain and lacquered furniture gathered by the Swedish East India Company in the 18th century.

19. Södermalm

We’ve already taken in the scenery and visited Fotografiska, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg on this island south of the centre.

Södermalm, where Greta Garbo grew up, has a few ultra-cool neighbourhoods with quirky shops and interesting places to go out.

Try SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) for one-of-a-kind designer boutiques, vintage shops and hip restaurants and cafes.

Nytorget Square here is a fun night out in summer.

The same goes for Mosebacke, which had a bohemian reputation for as long as anyone can remember, and is just the place to go for designer shopping, live music and a craft beer or coffee.

The sight of Stockholm from the terrace of the Södra Teatern is not to be missed.

20. Canal Trip

So much of Stockholm’s charm lies in its waterways that you’d be remiss not to see the city from the water.

You could even say it’s the first thing to do in the city, as you’ll get your bearings and see the parts you’d like to explore deeper later on.

A favourite trip is to head east on the Djurgårdsbrunnskanalen, a canal on the side of Djurgården.

This was dug during the reign of Charles XIV in 1825. On the way out there are lush views of palaces and gardens, and as you loop back you’ll see the city in all its majesty.

You could also take a bridges, which takes around two hours if you want to dig a bit deeper.

21. Hallwyl Museum

In the 1890s the aristocratic couple Walther von Hallwyl and his wife Wilhelmina ordered this mansion in the centre of Stockholm facing Berzelii Park.

The architect was Isak Gustaf Clason, responsible for many regal properties around the city like the Nordic Museum.

Hallywyl House is in a faithful Italian Renaissance style and while it might seem historic, the palace was advanced for its day and had phones, plumbing, central heating and electricity.

The countess in particular was a prodigious art collector, and even ten years before she passed away the palace had been donated to the state because of its profusion of fine art, furniture, silver, tableware and expertly crafted fittings.

The drawing room, dining room and billiard room are all very swish, while the courtyard puts on concerts in summer.

22. Stockholm Public Library

A bibliophile’s idea of heaven, the central building for the Stockholm Public Library is one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, and changed the city’s relationship with books when it opened in 1928. That’s down to the monumental rotunda at the top of the building.

This is a gigantic hall encircled with bookshelves, and for the first time readers could seek out the book they needed by themselves without having to consult the librarians.

Gunnar Asplund designed the library, and it’s held as a shining example of the Swedish Classicist movement.

There’s no fee to enter, and many of the titles are in English if you’re in need of a quiet, rainy day activity.

23. Norrmalm

If you’re young and fashion-conscious Stockholm’s revitalised city centre has all the chain stores, malls and old-school department stores to stay on point.

This area of Stockholm, also known simply as “City”, had an iffy reputation up to the 90s when it was brightened up and made pedestrian-friendly.

Now it’s a shopper’s paradise where there are flagships stores for international brands all along Drottninggatan, which is heaving on weekends.

Meanwhile Åhléns and the upmarket Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) are thriving Swedish institutions that have been here for more than a century.

24. Kungsträdgården

Behind the Royal Palace is a park that has something happening in all seasons.

But Kungsträdgården is never more beautiful than in April when its twin avenues of cherry trees are in bloom.

Thousands of people show up for Körsbärsblommans Dag (Cherry Blossom Day) in this month for a walk under those pink canopies.

In winter there’s a skating rink in the part of the park known as the oktogonen (octagon), while if you pass by in summer you’re sure to catch some temporary installation or festival.

And if you just have time to kill you could catch a game of street chess.

25. Go for Fika

If you’re new to the country then Fika is the easiest part of Swedish culture to pick up.

It’s essentially a coffee break, with no set time but is always a social occasion.

People at work “fika” (it’s a verb as well as a noun) to chat for a few minutes over coffee and a snack.

The partner for your cup of coffee can be anything from cookies to an open sandwich (smörgås). But the tried and trusted option is probably cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) or if you want to be a bit more indulgent, a slice of apple cake (äppelkaka).

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden):

• Vasa Museum
• Modern Art Museum
• The Medieval Museum
• Swedish History Museum
• Royal Palace
• Fotografiska
• The City Hall
• Strandvägen
• Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde
• ABBA: The Museum
• Monteliusvägen
• Nordic Museum
• Drottningholm Palace
• Hallwyl Museum
• Stockholm Public Library
• Kungsträdgården
• Go for Fika

Wealth of Geeks

12 Things You Simply Must Do in Stockholm on Your Next Visit

Posted: December 25, 2023 | Last updated: December 25, 2023

Stockholm, Sweden isn’t just one of the most beautiful Nordic cities in Europe, but also the world. The capital of Sweden is a land of intriguing mythology, as well as the homeland of the Vikings. If you’re planning your next vacation to Stockholm, here are twelve things you need to do. 

12 Things To Do in Stockholm, Sweden

Today, Stockholm is a metropolis that can go neck and neck with some of the world’s most famous cities like New York, Rome , Paris or Los Angeles. With Sweden being one of the best countries to live in, Stockholm undoubtedly takes the crown as the best city in Sweden.

Considering all this information, there is no reason to skip visiting Stockholm on your European travels. That’s why we have devised a list of the best things to do in Stockholm that should make your visit simple!

1. Admire Drottningholm Palace

Drottningholm Palace is Sweden’s most famous royal place and home to Sweden’s royal family. For those who didn’t know, Sweden is still a monarchy and has been in continuity since the 10th century. That means Sweden still has kings, queens, princes, and princesses.

Speaking of the palace, it was built in the 17th century and is the best-preserved palace in Sweden. Since the 1980s, the royal family has called it its permanent residence.

2. Behold the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Stockholm is the official residence of His Royal Majesty the King of Sweden. It is an enormous building that contains over 600 rooms and five museums. It was built in the late 1700s and still stands strong today. It is one of those attractions you should take advantage of while staying in Stockholm. 

3. Visit the Breathtaking Vasa Museum

The Vasa Museum has to be one of the most interesting museums in the World. The word museum may mean something different than what you expect, though. The Vasa was a ship that sunk around 400 years ago near Stockholm. Due to the cold waters of the Baltic Sea and the lack of oxygen in the seabed where the wreck was located,  decomposition didn’t happen, so the ship stayed almost fully intact.

In an operation of the Swedish government in 1961, the ship was salvaged and floated back to the surface. It was transferred to a building specifically built for it, and there, a team of experts worked tirelessly to bring it back to its original glory, fixing every hole and polishing every plank on the ship.

4. Stroll Down Monteliusvägen

Monteliusvägen is a quarter-mile-long walking path near Lake Mälaren in Stockholm. It is a beautiful place where you can see some of the finest pieces of Swedish houses and buildings.

5. Have a Peek at the Fotografiska Museum and Restaurant

This fine piece of architecture is a museum of contemporary photography and hosts numerous exhibitions every year. But apart from that, it is also a world-recognized restaurant that gives you a 360-degree view of Stockholm. This is a perfect place for photography lovers because of the view and the museum!

6. Sing Along With Stars in the ABBA Museum

ABBA has to be one of the most famous European music groups ever. This Swedish group became a world phenomenon after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with their mega-hit “Waterloo.” They were far from a one-hit wonder, with their music reaching every part of the globe.

The band’s hits like “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, “Voulez Vous,” “Mamma Mia,” and many others are still sung to this day. The ABBA Museum in Stockholm represents a walk through the band’s history and its ups and downs. It has a few interactive parts where you can sing your heart out to your favorite ABBA hits.

7. Pay Attention at Moderna Museet

If you are an art geek, this is a perfect place. This gallery contains artwork of the world’s most famous artists, such as Picasso, Dalí, and many others. Make sure to check for hours and days open and give yourself plenty of time to explore. 

8. Sail Among Thousands of Islands

Sweden, like the rest of Scandinavia, is known for its vast number of islands. It is believed that Sweden has over 30,000 islands in its territory. Rent a boat and a skipper and enjoy a beautiful sail through cold northern seas.

9. Enjoy a Fika With Your Loved Ones

The Swedes describe Fika as a state of mind, an essential part of their culture. For people outside of Sweden, Fika probably means something similar to a coffee or tea break. The Swedish people consider it an essential part of their day. It’s a period where everything stops for a short time—a time for a warm cup of coffee and a nice talk.

10. Have a Relaxing Bath at Hellasgården

Hellasgården is an open sauna in the vicinity of Stockholm. It is located near a lake. Men and women are completely separated, so don’t expect to chill with your partner in the sauna. The rules of Hellasgården include being completely unclothed to enter, so don’t be surprised if you see unclothed swimmers in the nearby icy lake after their sauna!

11. Try the Local Food at Hornstulls Marknad

For almost half a year, the most famous local gathering place is Hornstulls Marknad. From late spring to early autumn, it is filled with food carts where you can enjoy local and international delicacies.

12. Experience Stockholm’s Old Town

While it may not be like other old towns in historic countries such as  Greece or Italy, Stockholm’s Old Town does have a soul. You can visit a variety of differently themed pubs and listen to live music performed by the town’s residents.

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

Related Topics

• HISTORIC SITES
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL
• PREHISTORIC CULTURES
• ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: 'Huge fire breaks out' in port city after missile strike; Russia 'shifting battlefield focus'

Aerial images of the eastern town of Chasiv Yar have revealed the effects of Russian bombardment. A leading thinktank has suggested Moscow's battlefield focus may have shifted towards the town. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 23:39, UK

• Large fire breaks out in Odesa after missile strike  
• Drone footage reveals ghost town left after Russian bombardment  
• The signs Moscow's battlefield focus could be shifting
• Your questions answered: Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

We're wrapping up our live updates of the Ukraine war for this evening, but will be back soon with more updates.

In the meantime, scroll through the blog below to catch up on the latest events.

A Ukrainian drone attack has  damaged power lines in southern Russia's Kursk region, the local governor has said. 

The attack has left the village of Ponyri without power. 

Regional governor Roman Starovoit said the drone had been downed and repair crews are on site to restore power. 

As we reported earlier, tonight's missile attack on Odesa is the third reportedly carried out by Russian forces since Monday.

The city, particularly its port infrastructure, has been a frequent target of Moscow's during the war.

On 29 April, a Russian missile struck an educational institution in a seafront park in the port city, killing at least five people and injuring 32 others.

Among the wounded were eight people in a serious condition, including a four-year-old child, regional governor Oleh Kiper said. A pregnant woman was also hurt.

He said that in addition to those killed in the attack, a man later died after suffering a stroke related to the strike.

Footage showed the roof of the ornate building destroyed by fire.

Mr Kiper said another Russian missile attacked killed three people and injured three others in Odesa overnight on Tuesday.

He said the strike was carried out by a ballistic missile but didn't provide further details.

The attack also damaged civilian infrastructure, he said.

Regional governor Oleg Kiper reports that an air alarm is sounding in Odesa after this evening's missile strike.

He urged residents in the city and wider region to stay safe in a post to Telegram .

Nova Poshta, a Ukrainian postal and courier company, has confirmed its warehouse has been struck in Odesa.

The firm said none of its employees were injured or dead.

It added that customers would be compensated for parcels destroyed in the strike, which local officials say was carried out by Russia.

There are at least 13 victims as a result of a reported Russian missile strike on Odesa this evening, according to regional governor Oleg Kiper.

He did not specify if the victims had been killed or were injured.

In a Telegram post, Mr Kiper reported a "powerful fire at the point of impact".

Ballistic missiles were used to target the city, he said.

A large fire has erupted in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa after a missile strike, according to local media reports.

Unverified images circulating on social media show flames at the site of the reported strike and large plumes of smoke billowing towards the sky.

It comes after a Russian attack on an educational institution in the city on Monday that killed at least five people and injured 32 others.

Three people were killed in a separate missile attack in Odesa overnight last night.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has formally dismissed the head of the Ukrainian security service's cybersecurity department after a media probe into his finances.

A decree issued on on his presidential website today shows Illia Vitiuk has been officially removed from the post.

Mr Vitiuk had already been suspended after an investigation by a journalist at independent outlet Slidstvo.info which raised questions over the property holdings of his wife and the source of the couples' wealth.

The journalist was later targeted by enlistment officers in a "revenge" move, the outlet reported.

Washington has accused Moscow of violating an international treaty by using a First World War-era chemical weapon in Ukraine.

The state department said Russia has deployed the choking agent chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops and used riot control agents "as a method of warfare".

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, chloropicrin is an irritant "with characteristics of a tear gas".

It was used by Germany against allied troops during the First World War but has since been banned for military use.

"The use of such chemicals is not an isolated incident and is probably driven by Russian forces' desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield," the state department said in a statement. 

The Russian embassy didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

In Ukraine's partially occupied Donetsk region, troops continue to fight back against Russian forces on the frontline.

Moscow is heavily focusing on the eastern region, where it claims to have captured several towns and villages.

In these pictures, Ukrainian soldiers fire a howitzer at Russian positions.

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