trip to sweden cost

Cost of a Trip to Sweden & the Cheapest Time to Visit Sweden

The average price of a 7-day trip to Sweden is $1,153 for a solo traveler, $1,780 for a couple, and $2,326 for a family of 4 . Sweden hotels range from $50 to $224 per night with an average of $88, while most vacation rentals will cost $150 to $500 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Sweden (from all airports) are between $611 and $881 per person for economy flights and $1,919 to $2,766 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $38 to $77 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Sweden

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Sweden and stay in a Sweden hotel:

• January 8th to March 25th
• August 20th to December 9th (except the week of August 27th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Sweden is usually early November .

Average Sweden Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Sweden for a week is $1,009-$1,923 ($144-$275 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $38 to $77 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $341 to $766 for economy

Lodging : $67 to $90 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $85 to $103 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Sweden for a week is $1,609-$3,221 ($230-$460 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $75 to $153 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $682 to $1,532 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Sweden for a week is $3,183-$6,293 ($455-$899 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $151 to $307 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,364 to $3,064 for economy

Lodging : $135 to $180 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $127 to $154 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Sweden

How cheap can you make a vacation to Sweden? The cheapest trip to Sweden is about $104 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $42.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Sweden for a week is $726-$1,848 ($104-$264 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $19 to $38 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $42 to $50 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $105 to $136 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Sweden for a week is $1,200-$2,873 ($171-$410 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $38 to $75 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Sweden for a week is $2,393-$5,338 ($342-$763 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $75 to $150 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $84 to $99 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $158 to $204 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very possible to travel to Sweden cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Sweden Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Sweden.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Sweden for a week is $2,055-$9,041 ($294-$1,292 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $75 to $153 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $852 to $1,916 for first class

Lodging : $113 to $224 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $503 to $1,009 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Sweden for a week is $3,439-$12,035 ($491-$1,719 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $151 to $307 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,704 to $3,832 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Sweden for a week is $6,877-$21,063 ($982-$3,009 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $302 to $614 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,407 to $7,663 for first class

Lodging : $226 to $448 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $755 to $1,517 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Sweden Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Sweden is slightly lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Sweden due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Sweden Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Sweden hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Sweden.

Flight Costs to Sweden

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $881 average in late July to a low of $611 in early November. Median flight price is $627. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Sweden our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Wednesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Sweden, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $270, so you can easily save about 44% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Sweden can easily cost $282 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $19 per person. Private tours can cost $563 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Sweden Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Orebro, Sweden
• Kumla, Sweden
• Vingaker, Sweden
• Narke, Sweden
• Arboga, Sweden
• Motala, Sweden
• Askersund, Sweden
• Lindesberg, Sweden
• Nora, Sweden
• Linkoping, Sweden

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Home » Europe » Sweden » Is Sweden Expensive? (Costs of Travel in 2024)

Is Sweden Expensive? (Costs of Travel in 2024)

From its Viking heritage to its cosmopolitan cities of the present day, Sweden is a cultural powerhouse with so much to see across the country. With more coastline and islands than you could imagine, as well as vast open spaces, it’s also nature’s playground and the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers.

Sweden has a focus on meaningful and conscious travel with enriching experiences (Northern Lights, anyone?). You could opt for a city break in Stockholm or Gothenburg, a summer trip to one of its thousands of lakes, or stay in an ice hotel under the stars. It’s a Scandinavian dream.

However, when it comes to the price tag of a trip to Sweden, it’s not really known for being a budget-friendly country… But is that true?

That’s where this guide comes in. If you’re asking yourself “is Sweden expensive?” then you’ve come to the right place. I’m going to dive deep into the costs and expenses you’ll need to factor in before your plan a trip to Sweden.

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So, How Much Does a Trip to Sweden Cost on Average?

Cost of flights to sweden, price of accommodation in sweden, cost of transport in sweden, cost of food in sweden, price of alcohol in sweden, cost of attractions in sweden, additional costs of travel in sweden, some final tips for saving money in sweden, so is sweden expensive, in fact.

The cost of a trip to Sweden is going to vary depending on your budget. And that’s where every trip should start, really: the budget. In order to create your budget, this guide will help you factor in the cost of just about everything from flights and food to accommodation and souvenirs. 

Travel costs listed in this guide are all estimates and are subject to change. Prices are listed in US Dollars.

Sweden uses the Swedish Krona (SEK). As of August 2022, the exchange rate is 1 USD = 10.13 SEK.

2 Weeks in Sweden Travel Costs

For some guideline prices, you’ll find a summary of the average costs of a 2-week trip to Sweden summarised here:

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $130 – $1,933 USD for a roundtrip ticket.

Is it expensive to fly to Sweden? Well, it can be. Mostly I’d say that it depends on where you’re flying from. For example, you’ll be paying less if you’re hopping over to Sweden on a flight from the UK than if you were doing the same from New Zealand.

However, no matter where in the world you’re flying from, it’s possible to find cheaper flights . That does come at a different cost, however, and that is being flexible with when you travel. If you were angling on a trip to Sweden in July, perhaps reconsider: July is high season and when flights are most expensive. Want something cheaper? Try February (very much low season).

The busiest airport in Sweden is Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN). It’s not exactly what I’d call close to the capital city itself, being 34 kilometres (21.26 miles) away. Naturally, getting from the airport (taking anywhere between 18 and 32 minutes) is something you’ll need to factor into your budget, too.

Below you’ll find the average costs of a flight to Sweden from various international air travel hubs:

• New York to Stockholm Arlanda Airport : 480 – 671 USD
• London to Stockholm Arlanda Airport: 106 – 326 GBP
• Sydney to Stockholm Arlanda Airport: 1806 – 2,780 AUD
• Vancouver to Stockholm Arlanda Airport: 1163 – 1,498 CAD

Clearly, things are cheaper from London – even from New York (to an extent). Not so when it comes to Vancouver or Sydney. If you’re balking at the thought of forking out that much money for a flight to Sweden, try looking for flights with multiple changes. These aren’t exactly fun, and take ages , but can save you a bundle.

You should also try looking on flight comparison websites like Skyscanner. This is a great place to look for flights, mainly because you have everything you need in one place. It’s certainly better than trying to compare all the prices yourself individually. Big time saver.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $17 – $150 per night

When it comes to planning out your trip budget, accommodation is usually going to be one of the biggest expenses. The good news is that Sweden has an amazing range of accommodation choices to opt for. This choice means that there is something for every type of traveller who visits this Scandinavian nation . 

The cost of a night at a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb can vary hugely depending on the location and time of year.

This means working out the answer to the question “is Sweden expensive?” isn’t always easy. For those of you who are travelling on a shoestring, it’s best to avoid high season, but your trip to Sweden on a budget is totally doable. 

To help you get started with planning your trip, here’s a run-through of the accommodation on offer in Sweden…

Hostels in Sweden

Backpackers and budget travellers, rejoice. Sweden has a fantastic hostel scene which makes that dream adventure completely doable. From the smart city centre hostels in Stockholm to the hip and happening digs in trendy local neighbourhoods. There are even hostels located in the most amazing locations which are ideal for nature enthusiasts. 

The cheapest hostels in Sweden start at around $17 per night.

The hostel scene in Sweden is pretty reliable and you can expect to stay in clean and safe accommodation if you decide to book one.

You will be able to save yourself a whole load of cash and be able to make full use of the hostel amenities such as laundry facilities, cafes, and communal kitchens. Some even come with private rooms too!

If you think that staying in a hostel in Sweden is something you might enjoy, here are a few of the best for you to check out:

• City Backpackers Hostel – This award-winning accommodation is located in a trendy neighbourhood in Stockholm , making it great for exploring the city. It has a ton of perks: free food, free ice skate rental, free saunas, and events like movie nights.
• Centralstation Vandrarhem Uppsala – Just metres from the Central Station in Uppsala, this hostel is a great base for discovering the city’s bars, restaurants, and cultural sights (all within walking distance). There are good value private rooms to choose from here, too.
• Linneplatsens Hotel and Hostel – Billing themselves as affordable accommodation, this place is set in a leafy neighbourhood of Gothenburg and is a clean, organised, and cosy place to stay. Overall it feels very friendly – as well as being great value for money.

Airbnbs in Sweden

Sweden is a nation packed full of Airbnbs. Airbnb is so popular here that the country actually listed the entire nation on the accommodation site – all to promote Sweden as a place for people to freely explore. And Airbnb in Sweden does just that: it opens up far-flung destinations and various towns and cities to all sorts of travellers. 

Answering the question of whether or not Sweden is expensive for accommodation is easy if you look at the choice of Airbnbs. You’ll usually be able to find affordable and stylish accommodation that suits your trip itinerary.

The cheapest can be priced as low as $50-120.

One of the best things about staying in an Airbnb in Sweden is that you will usually find a wide choice of unusual accommodation. Think small cottages and rustic cabins surrounded by forests. The ideal places to really make your trip to Sweden special.

Of course, there’s also the extra perk of having all of the self-catering facilities at your disposal, helping you to keep costs low by making your own meals or doing your own laundry.  

If you’re thinking about booking yourself into an Airbnb during your trip, here’s a good selection of places you can stay:

• Kiruna Cabin – This cute cabin is located on the banks of the Thorn River in Kiruna. It has enough room for four guests across three bedrooms. Most of all, set right in the middle of the wilderness, it’s in a great location for marvelling at the Northern Lights.
• Stockholm Loft – Chic and polished, this loft apartment is situated in a classic Old Town building in the heart of Stockholm. With sights and a good choice of eateries on the doorstep, the apartment is also close to public transport and shops.
• Beach house at the shore of Lake Mälaren – This modern beach house has been beautifully designed to slot perfectly into its natural surroundings. Its simple stripped-back interiors allow views of the water to take centre stage. Still comes with everything you’ll need to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Hotels in Sweden

If you’re wondering if hotels are expensive in Sweden, here’s your answer: not very . They’re not amazingly pricey, but then again the room rates don’t really start very low either. But if you want something fancy, you’ll have to pay a lot. It’s Scandinavia.

Generally speaking, the most budget-friendly hotels in Sweden will start at around $80 per night for a room. Doable, maybe, but not if you wanted to travel on a shoestring budget.

That said, staying in a hotel has perks all of its own. Maybe you don’t want to share a room at a hostel, or you don’t want the vibes of a hostel – they’re not for everyone, after all. You get things like room service, housekeeping (no chores!), on-site restaurants, bars, and gyms, and sometimes a complimentary breakfast, too. 

Sweden has some fantastic budget hotel chains which help to make a trip so much more affordable. These budget hotels may not be overly luxurious but they’re usually very clean and professionally run. 

Sweden’s budget hotels are also pretty good. They’re smart, clean, and reliable. In cities, they’re located near transport options or in areas convenient for sightseeing; in the countryside, they’re charming and make for great bases for seeing the surrounding natural world.

Here are some top hotels in Sweden that best illustrate what you can expect:

• Hotel Ullinge – Situated in Swedish Småland, right next to Lake Södra Wixen, this hotel is a peaceful place where you can relax in nature. There are hiking opportunities nearby, while there’s a sauna and onsite restaurant to enjoy back at the hotel. Rooms look out over the lake.
• Rex Hotel – You’ll find Rex Hotel in a grand 19th-century building close to a metro station in Stockholm. As well as being conveniently located, just a few bus stops from the Central Station, it also comes with a good breakfast included in the price. Great value for money.
• Hemavans Wärdshus – Located in Hemavan, this lodge-style accommodation is the perfect place to get away from it all. It serves up a delicious selection of food made with local ingredients and features rustic, cosy decor throughout.

Unique Accommodation in Sweden

It’s fair to say that Sweden is not short on unique accommodation. In fact, there are so many beautiful and unique accommodation options that it can make choosing one pretty difficult. The most famous of them all is Sweden’s original Icehotel, which opened up as the world’s first in 1989. 

Made with snow and ice from the nearby village of Jukkasjärv, the Icehotel is amazingly rebuilt every year. Staying in this frozen wonderland is a completely unique experience and one not to be missed if you can help it. 

The hotel has a long list of different accommodation types, ranging from cabins to frozen rooms carved out of the ice itself. Staying at the Icehotel is not cheap: expect to pay from around $150 per night to stay in this seasonal hotel. 

But, there are some other options too. Sweden’s vast landscapes and winter skies filled with the northern lights have also brought on a new type of unique accommodation: glass igloos. Working in a similar way to the Icehotel, they allow guests to stay warm among the snow-coated landscape while still enjoying the outdoors. 

If you think that sounds like the perfect accommodation for you, here’s a choice of unique accommodation in Sweden:

• Icehotel Jukkasjärvi – The one and only Icehotel provides individually-themed rooms furnished by international artists. Room temperatures range between -5°C to -8°C, so naturally, you sleep in sleeping bags covered in reindeer hides. Mornings start with a sauna (if you like), and food is made with locally sourced ingredients.
• Cozy Glass Igloo at Voyager Park – Set in Nayiem, a place known for its forests, lakes, and wildlife, this modern take on an igloo provides guests with a sleek, comfy stay with views of the starry skies as you lie in bed.
• Aurora Glass Igloo – This compact dome of an igloo has glass sides all around, making it the ideal spot to soak up the northern lights from your bed. Surrounded by the wilderness, there’s a hot tub and sauna to use for extra indulgence. It’s also within walking distance of the Icehotel.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $23 per day

Sweden is 450,295 square kilometres (around 173,860 square miles) in area. It’s a pretty big country – the largest Nordic nation, in fact – but despite that, getting around is pretty easy. You’ll have the option of going by car, if you like, or making full use of Sweden’s very efficient public transport system to travel around.

Here you’ll have the choice of getting long-distance buses or getting the train to reach far-flung cities and destinations throughout Sweden. There’s also a selection of routes plied by coastal ferries, allowing you to see Sweden’s shoreline and scattering of islands. 

And for the more intrepid traveller, if you want to cycle there are some fantastic long-distance routes; one example is Kattegattleden. Running for 390 kilometers (242.3 miles) in total, from Helsingborg to Gothenburg, it won the accolade of European Cycle Route of the Year in 2018. 

When it comes to getting around cities in Sweden, it’s simple. Trams run in several Swedish cities – Gothenburg and Norrköping included – while Stockholm boasts the country’s only metro system. Buses trundle around pretty much everywhere, too. 

But is Sweden expensive to travel around? You’re about to find out as this guide dives into the details of its main transportation options.

Train Travel in Sweden

Sweden has a lot of railway tracks to utilise – 15,006.25 kilometres (9,324.45 miles) of it, to be precise, and around 400 stations. So a lot of the country is connected by rail. The trains in Sweden are run by the government agency Statens Järnvägar (SJ) and have been since 1887. Naturally, as you probably assume, it’s a very well-run and comprehensive system.

You can purchase your tickets up to 24 hours in advance from the SJ website ; you can even pre-order meals for your trains, as some of the journeys can be pretty long. There are even overnight trains where you can book either a seat, a beat, or a private compartment to whisk you to your destination.

But is Sweden expensive for its trains? It depends. To take one example, let’s look at the trip from Malmo to Stockholm. The high-speed railway journey, covering 513 kilometres (approximately 318 miles) takes 4.5 hours and costs upwards of $84 for a one-way ticket.

As you can see, while the train network is extensive, and the quality of the trains themselves – some of the most modern in Europe, according to some people – is top-notch, it’s not exactly cheap. The scenery, however, is awesome and makes it part of the whole experience. 

But it is possible to make Sweden fairly cheap to travel around by train by option of an SJ Rail Pass. Their site has various options, like passes for seniors and students, but below is the standard adult SJ Rail Pass:

• 7 days: $197
• 15 days: $325
• 30 days: $464

The SJ Rail Pass is valid only for consecutive days of travel, meaning that once you activate your pass on the first day, you’ll have seven days in which to make the most of train travel in Sweden. 

If you don’t like being tied down by having to travel on consecutive days, then you may want to opt for the flexibility of the Sweden Eurail Pass (only non-European citizens are eligible). But it’s expensive: prices start at $234 for 3 non-consecutive days of train travel within one month.

Bus Travel in Sweden

Long-distance bus travel in Sweden is generally much cheaper than travelling around the country by train. But by saving on your travel budget , you will be spending more time travelling – journeys take longer when they’re not on a fancy high-speed train, after all.

Long-distance bus journeys were de-nationalised in the 1990s, so today there are a number of companies providing intercity bus routes. The main company is Flixbus, but there’s also Ybuss and Vy.

You’ll be able to find the timetables for these various companies on their respective websites; you can also buy tickets for journeys online in advance, but you can also do this at bus stations on the day of your journey (not recommended: it’s not as cheap and could leave you disappointed).

Buses aren’t necessarily a bad option though. It may take longer to get from A to B, but these are modern coach-style buses with Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, power outlets, toilets, and sometimes even first and second-class seating options. 

Prices vary, but they’re usually very affordable. For example, from Gothenburg to Stockholm, you’ll pay around $31. They’re also flexible, allowing you to change your ticket (i.e. departure time, destination, etc.) up to 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Buses can also travel overnight in Sweden. This means saving money on accommodation for the night and arriving at your destination in the morning.

Ferry Travel in Sweden

Travelling by ferry is an important part of getting around Sweden. This Scandinavian nation has a sizeable coastline – 3,218 kilometres (2,000 miles) to be exact – and 267,570 islands, though under 1,000 of them are actually inhabited.

Naturally, getting around by sea in Sweden is something you’ll probably do, or want to do, while you’re here.

Passenger ferries are an important part of connecting communities in Sweden. There are various companies that operate routes between different destinations, from the Stockholm and Gothenburg archipelagos to West Coast locales. 

The closest islands to Stockholm are a mere 30-minute boat trip from the capital. Over in Gotland, big cruise ship-type boats connect larger islands with the mainland. Large lakes inland are served by smaller ferries.

Thankfully, for those on a road trip, many of the connecting ferries are free of charge (with a few exceptions).

If you’re wondering if boat travel is expensive in Sweden, here’s an example journey. Take Käringön, for instance. Situated in the Bohuslän archipelago of the West Coast, it’s a popular summer spot for locals and tourists alike. A boat trip takes 40 minutes and costs only around $3.50 each way.

Getting Around Cities in Sweden

Public transport is a popular way to get around in Sweden, and the nation’s towns and cities are well connected by buses, trams, light rail services, and even a metro system in Stockholm. 

Swedish cities are usually well connected by bus networks – this is the main deal pretty much everywhere. These connect the inner city with the suburbs and the countryside.

Stockholm, being the capital, has arguably the comprehensive selection of public transport: it’s got buses, commuter trains, and a metro system (even some vintage trams). All of this, and in Greater Stockholm, is run by Stockholm Public Transport.

A single ticket costs $3.75 and is valid for 75 minutes, across all modes of transport. There’s also the option to buy a 24 and 72 hour ticket, as well as a 30-day ticket, too.

It’s not just Stockholm; Gothenburg has a good tram network and buses. In Malmo and the wider Skane County, the public transport system is all under one umbrella. Thankfully, this means you can explore this whole area with one handy transport card: Öresund runt.

But if all else fails, and if the weather isn’t too cold, there’s always cycling. Plenty of people get around on bikes in Sweden’s towns and cities, and there are a number of dedicated cycling paths to use. 

Renting a Car in Sweden

Having your own set of wheels in Sweden gives you the freedom to not have to rely on the timetables (and prices) of public transport in Sweden. Renting a car offers you so much more flexibility, and the gift of being able to explore at your own pace , allowing you to stop off wherever you want, whenever you want.

There are multiple companies to choose from to rent a car in Sweden. You can usually find the top international firms at airports and dotted around larger towns and cities. Car rental in Sweden costs around $85 per day – that’s for a small car with unlimited mileage. For a week, that would be upwards of $150.

Want something bigger? Well, a Volkswagen Passat, for example, will set you back $217 for four days’ rental.

Prices of renting a car in Sweden usually include collision damage waiver and theft protection, but if you want supplementary insurance you can expect to pay an additional $20 per day.

There are also additional fees for young drivers (under 25 years of age) and seniors over 70. There are also fees incurred if you’re picking up a car from an airport.

Another cost to look out for is a flat daily fee that accounts for traffic congestion in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg. The cost of fuel can also be expensive when compared to other countries – it’s around $2 per litre. 

Want to save some cash and explore Sweden by rental car? Use rentalcar.com to find the best deal possible. There are some great prices on the site and they aren’t difficult to find.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $10 – $40 USD per day

Food in Sweden is much more than just smorgasbord (open-faced sandwich). It’s a mix of locally produced ingredients, international influence, and open-mindedness.

The food centres around a healthy, balanced diet that’s distinctly linked to the seasons and the region; there are big differences in northern and southern cuisine in Sweden.

Swedish people started making preserved food during the Viking Age, and these traditions have persisted to the modern age. Salting and smoking, fermenting and pickling – all forms part and parcel of the Swedish diet.

Wondering what you should try? Don’t miss out on these tasty morsels…

• Kanelbulle – This sweet cinnamon bun is almost like a national dish in Sweden. You’ll be able to pick one of these up at pretty much any bakery or cafe across the nation. Made from wheat bread and flavoured with vanilla, cardamom and saffron. Can’t go wrong; especially when paired with a coffee for fika – the national pastime of sitting down with a coffee and a sweet treat. Costs around $1.
• Inlagd sill – Pickled herring. But so much more: you’ll find it on a smorgasbord, or served alongside new potatoes and sour cream. Sometimes it’s also mixed with carrots and onions into a creamy sauce; in this form, it costs around $8.
• Husmanskost – Translating to “house-owner’s fare”, this peasant-style, homespun dishes comprise what people would have eaten back in the day after a day of working in the fields. Expect dishes such as meatballs and potato gratin. Usually served up as lunch specials. Prices start at around $12. 

Those dishes are a great way to gain an insight into Swedish cuisine. But it’s not always the cheapest way, so for a few tips on how to eat cheaply in Sweden, keep the below tips in mind…

• Look for lunch deals – A lot of establishments that are open for lunch in Sweden will have some kind of lunch-time special advertised in their window. Usually, you’ll get a combo that will include a drink and a side. Usually much cheaper than eating at the same place for dinner.
• Hit up food halls – Big cities have food halls. These places are packed full of a variety of stalls, from the traditional to the trendy. Expect kiosks selling cheese and meats and newer spots selling Asian cuisine. You can pick up meals here for around $12.
• Go for a picnic – When the sun is out, heading out for a picnic is the ideal way to enjoy a low-cost meal. Head to a market (or supermarket) and pick up whatever you feel like – fruits, salads, cheeses, pickles, meats – and enjoy a picnic among nature. You’re never too far from a nice park or scenic spot in Sweden.

Where to Eat Cheaply in Sweden

If you want more ways to keep your trip to Sweden inexpensive in terms of food and drink, stay tuned. There’s yet more to add to your already long list of money-saving tips. In particular, remember to visit…

• Mom’s Kitchen – A city favourite in Stockholm. Here you can get affordable, traditional meals served up by friendly staff in a casual environment. You also get the bonus of free-flowing refillable bread and coffee. Meals with a drink cost around $15.
• The Herring Wagon – Another local favourite in the capital, The Herring Wagon is a food truck that serves up freshly caught fish on rye bread. Costs around $5. You can add sides like lingonberries and potatoes for a total of $8.
• Stora Saluhallen – Stora Saluhallen is one of Gothenburg’s many food halls, except this one is super old-school (it’s been in business since 1888). Literally translating to “The Market Hall”, here you can get a whole lot of food for relatively affordable prices. 

Eating out in Sweden is fun. But it isn’t exactly cheap, and all those rounds of fika you keep partaking in are going to add up. To keep things extra cheap, it’s better to make things for yourself. Is that expensive? Not really.

Sweden has a bunch of low-cost supermarkets where you can get low-cost produce to match. Two of the most famous are…

• Lidl – Probably the cheapest grocery store in Sweden, here you can find pretty much everything you’ll need and save cash while you do it. Plenty of locations and weekly deals to look out for, too.
• Coop – Sells a range of different organic and eco-friendly products. Certain days of the week have rotating discounts, which is always a plus. The quality of goods is pretty high and it’s always reliable.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0 – $36 per day

Spoiler alert: Sweden is expensive for alcohol. Like neighbouring Norway, Sweden has a monopoly on alcohol, namely the state-owned Systembolaget. This has been in place since the 1880s, limits access to alcohol above 3.5%, and isn’t going away anytime soon.

The government body operates a nationwide off-licence system – the only places you can buy alcohol with a high alcoholic percentage other than bars, restaurants, and clubs. 

Because of this, it can be pretty expensive – probably much more expensive than you’re used to in your home country – whether you go to the off-licences or bars. 

In a Systembolaget establishment, you can buy a wide range of alcohol. There’s not a lot of choice in terms of cheap alcohol, but possibly most cost-effective is purchasing a box of wine. This will usually cost around $23.70 for a three-litre box (approximately four bottles of wine).

One bottle of vodka, on the other hand, costs around $24. Drinks are taxed based on their ABV.

In a restaurant or bar, a beer will cost around $5; in a grocery store, that’ll be more like $2. A glass of wine in a bar is almost $7. 

However, you can find low ABV beer in supermarkets. It’s colloquially named folköl or “people’s beer”, and its maximum strength is 3.5%.

In supermarkets, one can of domestic beer costs you between $0.40 to $1.36. In a bar, a draught beer will cost around $6. If you like wine, a bottle of this will cost around $8.85 at a supermarket, or somewhere in the region of $16.33 for a bottle of house wine at a restaurant.

Here are a couple of local tipples that you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip to Sweden:

• Brännvin – Translating to “burn wine”, the name pretty much says it all. It covers a number of spirits distilled from potatoes, with dozens of versions throughout Sweden; it’s flavoured with herbs and spices. Strong stuff – and a must-try while you’re in the country. You’ll pay $25 in an off-licence for a bottle of the good stuff.
• Omnipollo Nebuchadnezzar – Originally homebrewed, this Swedish beer created by craft brewery outfit Omnipollo is now popular throughout the country. It’s been touted as one of the IPAs you should drink before you die, so don’t skip the chance to try it. Costs $3.65 for a small bottle.

Thirsty for more? Try a punsch . This historic concoction is usually enjoyed after a meal; it’s a national cocktail of sorts that has links to Sweden’s student population.

Spirits (rum, brandy, arak, etc.) are mixed with tea (yes, tea), sugar and water, as well as extra flavourings such as lemon. It can be drunk neat or mixed into further cocktail creations. It’s even used as syrup on desserts. Brands include Trosapunsch and Facile.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $18 USD per day

Sweden’s cities are packed full of cultural things to see and do. There’s the ever-interesting city of Stockholm , artsy Malmo, and canal-strewn Gothenburg, to name just a few, with charming towns and villages dotted throughout the country besides.

You’ll find some immense museums in urban landscapes. The Vasa Museum plays homage to Sweden’s Viking heritage, while Drottningholm Palace serves up grandeur as the UNESCO-recognised home of Sweden’s Royal Family. There are plenty of things to do in Stockholm to keep you busy.

Then there’s nature. Sweden plays host to 30 national parks, as well as literally thousands of nature reserves – all of which are completely free to visit. There are multiple trails where you can embark on famous hikes, explore uninhabited islands on Sweden’s largest lake, and camp out in the wilderness for free.

It’s not exactly expensive to see the sights in Sweden. The transport – the trains and boats between the places you want to explore – might add up though. When it comes to cities, bike or walk to save on your daily costs. 

Here are a couple more tips to keep in mind when you’re exploring Sweden…

• Find free walking tours – Sweden’s many cities come packed with as many tour guides, companies and even hostels willing to take visitors out to see the sights without charging a single krona. Make the most of this and scour the internet for such tours before you book anything expensive.
• Enjoy nature – Nature is often very easily accessible from Sweden’s cities, and so it makes sense that you should be utilising this natural boon during your trip. And don’t worry: it’s not all crazy vast tundra for only the most intrepid travellers. There are national parks with easy walks, well-known trails, and long-distance cycle routes to try your hand at, too.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

You’ve come this far in creating a budget for your trip to Sweden. All the big things are factored in – the accommodation, the flights, the transport, food, drink, everything… Actually, that’s more like almost everything.

Because there are always going to be unforeseen costs that, well, you don’t foresee. You might need to pay a fine for something, who knows, or maybe you want to pay for luggage storage or buy household supplies for your Airbnb rental. Even a souvenir or two. 

In any case, it all adds up. I would recommend setting aside 10% of your budget for these extra, more unpredictable costs.

Tipping in Sweden

Tipping in Sweden is strictly optional. It’s usually used as a way of saying thanks for good service, so if you choose not to leave a tip, it’s totally fine. Nobody’s going to chase you down the street demanding a tip.

However, in cafes and restaurants, there is usually a service charge built into the final cost of the bill. If this is the case, it will be clearly stated somewhere in the restaurant, usually on the menu and on the bill itself.

When you’re eating out in Sweden, and you want to leave a tip, it’s customary to round the bill up to the nearest number. For example, if your bill came to 275 SEK, you’d leave 300 SEK; otherwise, a tip consisting 5-10% of the final bill is the norm.

Leaving a few krona ( not US dollars) on top of the bill is seen as a kind gesture showing appreciation. 

When it comes to the tipping service staff at a hotel, it is likewise seen as a goodwill gesture and not something that will bolster the staff’s living wage . You could opt to leave a few krona in the hotel room for the cleaning staff, or give the bellhop a few krona for helpful service.

For taxi drivers, you can round your fare up to the nearest 10 SEK, but again, it’s not expected. Similarly, with tour guides, tipping is not expected, but if you’re on a free city walking tour or something like that, then it is customary to give the tour guide a few krona for their effort.

In short, tipping in Sweden won’t eat into your budget too much – it’s more like a way of saying thank you (and then only if you feel like it).

Get Travel Insurance for Sweden

Something else to think about is travel insurance. It’s not something that you’d automatically include as part of your budget for your Sweden adventures, but it’s probably something that you should at least consider.

It’s mainly because unpredictable things can happen at any moment. War? Volcano erupting? Global pandemic? All these things have affected travel in the past few years.

For simple stuff like having to book extra nights at your hotel and paying for missed flights, travel insurance can provide a nice financial cushion. Worth a ponder.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I’ve almost reached the end of this guide, but before you go, here are a few final tips to help you keep well within budget during your trip to Sweden…

• Go in low season – It doesn’t particularly matter about the sun in Sweden; winter is a wonderland and a perfect time to see the Northern Lights and get all cosy inside. February is the cheapest, but November would be good, too (avoid Christmas).
• Have a water bottle : Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
• Stay in hostels – Hostels are easily the cheapest way to stay during your Sweden adventures. Even private rooms at most hostels are cheaper than hotels. Plus many hostels offer so many free things, from breakfast to tours, that it makes them ideal for budget travellers.
• Earn money while you travel : Teaching English while traveling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Sweden.
• Use buses – If you’re not a fan of driving, or can’t, then public transport will be the only way to get around. Trains are still pricey, even with the 15-day SJ Rail Pass (which still costs around $325). That’s a lot to pay upfront, so I’d say just opt for buses as and when you need to travel.
• See nature – It costs nothing to hike or bike around Sweden (well, maybe a little with bike rental), so get out there and see nature. You could embark on the Kattegattleden, hang out by the shores of Lake Vänern, or walk part of the 1,000-kilometre-long Sörmlandsleden trail. It’s all there for the taking.
• Become a volunteer with Worldpackers : Give back to the local community and, in exchange, you’re room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Sweden.
• Self cater – I know: it’s not fun to always be making food for yourself, but making sure you have breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner covered means you can save a whole lot on your trip. That means opting for a hostel or Airbnb with a kitchen; some come already stocked with basic supplies, which is a plus.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Sweden is expensive. Generally speaking, that’s what I’d say. It can definitely come across as a destination that’s un-doable for independent travellers on a budget. But don’t let that put you off at all. Because you don’t need to spend a huge amount of cash to explore Sweden.

The public transport is super reliable and affordable; the bus network will get you to a whole lot of destinations for a few dollars. Hostels, Airbnbs, and budget hotels combine to create a network of accommodation to keep your budget in check – you’ll be able to stay in some incredible locations, as well.

What we think the average daily budget for Sweden should be:

As long as you’re mindful of what you’re spending (and stay in cheap accommodation, and maybe make your lunches more often than you eat lunch out), it could come to around $55.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Christina Grayt

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Sweden Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 25, 2023

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in sweden.

1. Explore Stockholm

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

2. Catch the Midsummer Festival

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

3. Visit Gotland

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

4. Hike the Kungsleden (King’s Trail)

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

5. Brave the cold in Lapland

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

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

2. Stay in the Ice Hotel

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

3. Tour the Stockholm Archipelago

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

4. Visit Gothenburg

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

5. Explore the Bohuslän Coast

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

6. Go skiing

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

7. Kick back in Uppsala

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

8. Celebrate Valborg Day

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

9. Check out Wallander’s Ystad

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

10. Visit Kosterhavet National Park

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

11. Visit the Vasa Museum

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

12. Let loose at Liseberg

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

13. Explore the Universeum

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

14. See the Northern Lights

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

15. See Stockholm’s stunning subway art

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

16. Visit Drottningholm Palace

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

17. Experience the Göta Canal

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

18. Get outside in the national parks

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

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

• Gothenburg Travel Guide
• Stockholm Travel Guide

Sweden Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Sweden Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Sweden Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Sweden

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

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

How to Get Around Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sweden Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Stockholm Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Stockholm

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

The 9 Best Hostels in Stockholm

Living Lagom in Sweden: An Interview With Lola Akerstrom

The Swedish Birthday Party

10 Ways to Visit Stockholm on a Budget

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Nordic Perspective

Traveling to Sweden: What To Expect (Costs, Data, Attractions)

Are you considering a visit to Sweden on your next Scandinavia trip? In this article, I will present a balanced view of how Sweden stacks up in travel categories such as accessibility, popularity, quality of life, travel costs, and attractions. For each category, I include reliable data points that will give you a good idea of what to expect if you visit the largest of the Nordic countries.

• Visitor Accessibility - How Easy Is It to Travel to and in Sweden?​

Visitor Popularity, Demand, Total Area, and Global Reputation

Quality of life index – how does sweden compare globally, quality of life surveys – what do actual expats and visitors think of sweden, reported cost of food, drinks and shopping – how expensive is it to travel to sweden, attractions & travel community – what does the travel community say about sweden, capital city rating – is stockholm a good travel destination.

I feel lucky to have been able to grow up in and travel around Sweden and the rest of the Nordics throughout my life. Whether it has been historical and educational trips with family or adventurous and explorational trips with friends, I have never run out of new places to discover and new things to do in my native Sweden.

But just because I love the country I grew up in doesn’t mean everyone would, so I was curious to find how Sweden is like for the average traveler .

To find out how Sweden stacks up travel-wise, and in an attempt to give you an unbiased and balanced view of how Sweden rates as a travel destination , I set out to collect all the relevant data points I could find from different reliable indexes and surveys where countries around the world are compared in ways that relate to traveling experience and satisfaction.

So let’s take a look at how Sweden rates as a travel destination for the average tourist, based on relevant data points and survey results:

You can click on each category for a deeper look into the data and the sources, or simply keep scrolling to look at how we arrived at these ratings, one by one.

Visitor Accessibility – How Easy Is It to Travel to and in Sweden?​

For this category, we’re trying to establish how convenient it is to travel to Sweden, and how easy it is to get around in the country when you’re visiting. If you’re visiting Sweden as part of a bigger trip we’ll look at distance in travel time from different European cities, and we’ll also try to gauge how the country’s infrastructure holds up compared to other countries in order to figure out if it’s easy to get around in Sweden.

Looking at how popular Sweden is for visitors, how long they stay, and how the country’s reputation ranks globally, we can get a good sense of how people in general rate Sweden. I’ve also chosen to include total area to get a sense of how much there is to explore in the country as a whole.

To get a sense of how Sweden ranks as a destination for expats and visitors, we’ve looked at a massive global index that ranks countries based on factors relating to quality of life.

We can definitely learn a lot from looking at the big data in the previous section, but I also wanted to include how actual visitors of the country rate Sweden in different areas related to quality of life, which can give a good idea of how it is to visit the country. A great way to find out how good a country is for travelers is to ask the people who have actually visited the country.

I looked at three independent surveys which asked expats and visitors what their experience in Sweden was:

We’ve touched on the cost of travel in Sweden already, but I wanted to give an idea of actual costs travelers may be interested in, as reported by visitors (and confirmed by myself).

Other important factors for travelers to consider before deciding on their travel plans are how many attractions there are, how excited other travelers seem to be about the country, how attractive the country’s natural assets are, and what the country’s main attraction categories are:

Finally, you get a pretty good sense of a country by looking at its capital city and how it stacks up against other capital cities, specifically when it comes to factors that are relevant for travelers.

Data sources: 1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  8 ,  9 ,  10 ,  11 ,  12 ,  13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 ,  17 , 18

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By Karl Andersson

As a native Swede with a Finnish mother, Karl identifies as both Nordic and Scandinavian. He left Sweden at 19 to explore the world, and stayed abroad for almost 8 years—during which he backpacked, worked every job there was, earned a degree from UC Berkeley, and met the future mother of his children. He ultimately returned to his native Malmö with his love, where they now have 3 Swedish-American boys eager to explore the world.

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Your Sweden Vacation

With a Sweden vacation package, you can forget about planning hassles and put all your energy into experiencing everything this thrilling destination has to offer. Begin your trip to Sweden with some time in Stockholm . Families staying here enjoy visiting Solvalla Loppis and Gröna Lund. Gothenburg is another city that lures travelers from all over. If you're treating your loved one to a romantic escape, don't miss Gothenburg Opera and Gothenburg Concert Hall. Expedia is a one-stop shop for planning your Sweden vacation. From accommodations and flights, to car rentals and activities, we know how to create a travel experience like no other.

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Day 1-2: Spread across 14 main islands, the nation’s capital Stockholm is the ideal place to begin your trip. Wander its narrow streets stopping at Gamla Stan (the Old Town), Royal Palace, the Skansen open-air museum and Vasa Museum, which houses a 17th-century warship. Marvel at magnificent mansions and quaint summer houses as you cruise through the city’s vast archipelago of islands.

Day 3-4: Head through the crystal-rich region of Kalmar toward the south of Sweden for beautiful national parks and golden sand beaches. Spend the evening wining and dining in cosmopolitan Malmö.

Day 5-8: Fly north to Swedish Lapland for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Stay in a room made of ice at the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjarvi and if luck is on your side, witness the spectacular phenomenon of the northern lights.

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Discover the Ins and Outs of a Trip to Sweden Cost in 2024

by Trip.com

August 25, 2023

Planning a trip to Sweden? Wondering about the trip to Sweden cost? Look no further! In this article, we'll provide you with all the essential information you need to know before embarking on your Swedish adventure. Our main goal is to help you save money without compromising on quality. From hotels to food, souvenirs to transportation, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and discover the best tips for making your trip to Sweden both affordable and unforgettable!

When it comes to the cost of traveling to Sweden, it's important to consider various aspects. For a round-trip ticket, flight costs can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the season and departure location. Accommodation costs vary as well, with budget hotels or hostels starting from $50 per night, while luxury hotels can go up to $300 or more. Fortunately, Sweden boasts an extensive and efficient public transportation system, with a one-way subway or train ticket costing around $3 to $5.

Now, let's talk about food. Dining out in Sweden can be a delightful experience, but it's essential to keep your budget in mind. Budget restaurants offer meals for around $10 to $15 per person, while mid-range restaurants can range from $20 to $40 per person. It's worth noting that alcohol prices in Sweden can be quite high, so if you're planning to enjoy a drink or two, be prepared to spend a bit more.

For budget travelers, it's reasonable to expect to spend around $80 to $100 per day in Sweden, including accommodation, transportation, meals, and some activities. On the other hand, mid-range travelers can expect to spend approximately $150 to $200 per day. Keep in mind that these figures are just estimates, and it's crucial to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that suits your preferences and travel style.

• How much does it cost for 2 nights and 3 days when traveling to Sweden?

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Planning a trip to Sweden and wondering how much it'll cost you for a delightful 2-night, 3-day adventure? Well, hold on tight because we're about to break it down for you!

When it comes to the cost of a 2-night, 3-day trip to Sweden, several factors come into play. Your travel style, choice of accommodation, transportation, and activities can all influence the final price tag. But fret not, we've got a rough estimate for all you budget-savvy travelers out there!

Let's start with flights. The cost of a round-trip ticket to Sweden from major cities around the world can range anywhere from $500 to $1500, depending on your departure location and the time of year you plan to visit.

Now, onto accommodation. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, you can find hotels in Sweden for as low as $50 per night. So, for 2 nights, you're looking at a total cost range of $100 to $200.

Transportation-wise, a one-way subway or train ticket in Sweden can cost you around $3 to $5. For a 3-day trip, you can expect to spend around $20 to $30 on transportation.

Let's talk about food and drinks. If you're dining at budget restaurants, a meal can cost you anywhere from $10 to $20. However, if you're up for some street food or convenience store meals, you can save even more. As for drinks, prices can vary depending on the type and location, but a rough estimate would be around $2 to $5 per drink. So, for 3 days of food and drinks, you can expect to spend around $100 to $200.

Now, onto sightseeing and activities. Sweden offers a plethora of attractions, some of which are free or have a small entrance fee of around $5 to $10 per person. You can explore beautiful places like Gamla Stan, the Vasa Museum, and Skansen without breaking the bank. However, if you're looking for more extravagant experiences, attractions like the Icehotel or the ABBA Museum can cost you a bit more, ranging from $30 to $50 per person. So, for 3 days of sightseeing and activities, you can expect to spend around $50 to $150.

Now, let's sum it all up! For a budget traveler planning a 2-night and 3-day trip to Sweden, the total cost range would be approximately $770 to $1730. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, activities, and other expenses.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Swedish adventure and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals!

• How much does it cost for flights when traveling to Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? One of the first things you'll need to consider is the cost of flights. The price of airfare can vary greatly depending on several factors, including your departure location, the time of year you plan to travel, the airline you choose, and the availability of flights. Let's take a closer look at the general range of costs you can expect when booking a flight to this beautiful Scandinavian country.

When it comes to the cost of flights to Sweden, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It all depends on where you're departing from. If you're flying from a major city like New York, London, or Sydney, you can generally expect to pay a higher price compared to smaller cities or less popular routes. Additionally, the time of year you plan to travel can also have a significant impact on the cost. Peak travel seasons, such as summer or holidays, tend to be more expensive, while off-peak seasons offer more affordable options.

Another factor to consider is the airline you choose. Different airlines have different pricing structures and amenities, so it's important to do your research and compare prices. Some airlines may offer discounted fares or special promotions, while others may provide a more luxurious experience at a higher cost. It's all about finding the right balance between price and comfort that suits your travel preferences.

Now, let's talk numbers. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier. For a one-way ticket from major cities in the United States to Sweden, prices can range from around $300 to $800 in economy class. If you're looking for a round-trip ticket, you can expect to pay anywhere between $600 and $1500, again depending on the aforementioned factors.

For those seeking a more premium travel experience, business class and first class tickets will naturally come at a higher cost. Prices for business class tickets from major cities to Sweden can start from around $1500 for a one-way trip, while first class tickets can range from $3000 and beyond.

Remember, these prices are just a general guideline to give you an idea of what to expect. It's always a good idea to check multiple airlines and travel websites to find the best deals and compare prices. Additionally, booking your flights well in advance can often result in lower fares. So, start planning your trip to Sweden and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

• How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? One of the key aspects to consider is the cost of accommodation. The price of hotels in this beautiful Scandinavian country can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, season, and the type of accommodation you are looking for.

When it comes to major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, it's important to keep in mind that hotels tend to be more expensive compared to smaller cities or rural areas. These bustling urban centers offer a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels.

In Stockholm, for instance, you can expect to find mid-range hotel rooms with prices ranging from $100 to $200 per night. If you're looking for a more extravagant experience, luxury hotel rooms can cost anywhere from $300 to $500 per night. The prices may vary depending on the specific location within the city and the amenities offered by the hotel.

Similarly, in Gothenburg and Malmö, the cost of hotels follows a similar pattern. Mid-range hotel rooms typically range from $80 to $150 per night, while luxury hotel rooms can go up to $400 per night.

However, if you're planning to explore the lesser-known cities and smaller towns in Sweden, you'll find that the cost of accommodation is generally more affordable. These charming destinations offer a unique experience and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture without breaking the bank.

In smaller towns like Uppsala, Lund, and Visby, mid-range hotel rooms can be found for around $60 to $100 per night. Luxury hotel rooms, although less common in these areas, can still be found at prices ranging from $200 to $300 per night.

It's worth noting that these price ranges are estimates and can vary depending on the season and availability. It's always a good idea to book your accommodations in advance to secure the best deals and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Sweden.

So, whether you're planning to explore the vibrant city life or venture into the serene countryside, Sweden offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Happy travels!

• How much does it cost for food when traveling to Sweden?

When planning a trip to Sweden, it's important to consider the cost of food and dining. The prices can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of food, the restaurant's location, and the level of formality or luxury. So, let's dive into the delicious details!

Now, let's talk about the most important part - the cost! Here are some general price ranges in US dollars per meal for different food options in Sweden. Please note that these are just approximate ranges to give you an idea:

• Street food or fast food: $5 - $10
• Casual dining or local restaurants: $10 - $20
• Mid-range restaurants: $20 - $50
• High-end or luxury restaurants: $50 and above

It's worth mentioning that Sweden also offers other affordable options for food. Convenience stores and supermarkets are great places to find budget-friendly meals and snacks. You can grab sandwiches, salads, or even Swedish delicacies at reasonable prices, allowing you to experience the local flavors without breaking the bank.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - tipping. In Sweden, tipping is not customary. The service charge is usually included in the bill, so you don't have to worry about leaving an extra tip. However, if you receive exceptional service and want to show your appreciation, a small tip would certainly be welcomed.

So, whether you're craving a quick bite from a food truck or indulging in a gourmet feast, Sweden has a wide range of options to suit every budget. Remember to explore the local markets, try traditional Swedish dishes, and savor the culinary delights this beautiful country has to offer. Happy eating!

How much does it cost for souvenirs when traveling to Sweden? Well, let me tell you, the cost of souvenirs in Sweden can be as diverse as the country itself. It all depends on what you're looking for, where you're shopping, and the quality of the item. So, if you're planning a trip to Sweden, make sure to bring some extra cash for those must-have mementos. Now, let's dive into some examples of popular souvenirs and their price range in good old US dollars.

First up, we have the iconic Dala horse. These hand-carved wooden horses can range anywhere from $20 to $100, depending on the size and intricacy of the design. They make for a perfect Scandinavian keepsake to bring back home.

Next on the list, we have the trendy Swedish fashion brands. If you're a fashion enthusiast, you might want to splurge on some stylish clothing items. Prices can vary, but be prepared to spend around $50 to $200 for a fashionable piece from renowned Swedish designers.

For those with a sweet tooth, Swedish chocolate is a must-try. You can find a variety of delectable chocolate bars ranging from $2 to $10, depending on the brand and size. Don't forget to grab some of those famous Marabou chocolates!

Lastly, let's not forget about the ever-popular Swedish crystal. A beautiful crystal vase or glassware can make for an elegant souvenir. Prices for these exquisite pieces can start at $50 and go up to several hundred dollars, depending on the size and intricacy of the design.

While many souvenir shops in tourist areas have fixed prices, there may be room for negotiation in other types of stores, such as flea markets or antique shops. So, if you're up for a little haggling, you might just score yourself a great deal on that one-of-a-kind item.

In conclusion, when it comes to the cost of souvenirs in Sweden, it's all about what you're looking for, where you shop, and the quality you desire. So, make sure to budget accordingly and enjoy your treasure hunting in this beautiful Scandinavian country!

• How much does it cost for transportation when traveling to Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? Well, let's talk about the cost of transportation in this beautiful Scandinavian country. Whether you're exploring the vibrant city of Stockholm or venturing into the picturesque countryside, knowing the expenses involved in getting around is essential. So, let's dive right in!

The cost of transportation in Sweden can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the distance you need to travel. Let's take a closer look at the different options available and their respective price ranges in good old US dollars.

When it comes to train travel, Sweden offers a well-connected network that allows you to explore the country comfortably. A typical train journey can cost you anywhere between $20 to $100, depending on the distance and the class you choose. It's worth mentioning that train travel in Sweden is known for its efficiency and scenic routes, making it a popular choice among travelers.

If you prefer the convenience of a subway, you'll find that major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö have efficient metro systems. A single subway ride can cost around $3 to $5, depending on the city and the distance traveled. Keep in mind that purchasing a travel card or a pass can help you save money if you plan on using the subway frequently during your stay.

For those who enjoy the charm of a bus ride, Sweden offers an extensive bus network that covers both urban and rural areas. The cost of a bus ticket can range from $2 to $20, depending on the distance and the bus company. It's worth noting that bus travel is a cost-effective option for exploring smaller towns and villages.

When it comes to taxis, they are readily available in Sweden, but they can be quite expensive. A typical taxi ride within the city can cost you around $10 to $30, depending on the distance traveled and the time of day. If you're on a budget, it's advisable to use taxis sparingly or consider alternative modes of transportation.

If you prefer the freedom of having your own wheels, renting a car is a viable option in Sweden. The cost of renting a car can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, rental duration, and additional services. On average, you can expect to pay around $40 to $100 per day for a standard car rental. Keep in mind that fuel costs and parking fees should also be factored into your budget.

Now, let's talk about transportation passes and discount tickets. Sweden offers various options that can be a great value for travelers planning to do a lot of exploring in a short period. For example, the Stockholm Pass provides free access to over 60 attractions and unlimited use of public transportation within the city. Similarly, the Gothenburg City Card offers free admission to numerous attractions and unlimited travel on buses, trams, and boats. These passes can save you both time and money, so be sure to consider them if you're planning an action-packed itinerary.

In conclusion, the cost of transportation in Sweden can vary depending on your preferred mode of travel and the distance you need to cover. Whether you choose to hop on a train, ride the subway, take a bus, hail a taxi, or rent a car, there are options available to suit every budget. Don't forget to explore the transportation passes and discount tickets offered, as they can provide excellent value for money. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Sweden!

• How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? Wondering how much it will cost to explore the beautiful sights this country has to offer? Well, the cost of sightseeing in Sweden can vary widely depending on the location, attraction, and activity you choose. From picturesque landscapes to historical landmarks, Sweden has something for everyone.

Let's take a closer look at some popular tourist attractions in Sweden and their cost ranges in good old US dollars:

• Stockholm's Royal Palace: Explore the grandeur of this royal residence for approximately $15 to $20.
• Gamla Stan: Wander through the charming streets of Stockholm's old town, Gamla Stan, for free.
• Gothenburg Archipelago: Take a boat tour to this stunning archipelago for around $30 to $50.
• Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi: Experience the unique ice sculptures and ice rooms at the Icehotel for approximately $150 to $500 per night.
• Vasa Museum: Marvel at the well-preserved Vasa warship from the 17th century for about $15 to $20.
• Abisko National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Abisko National Park with a guided tour for around $50 to $100.
• Skansen Open-Air Museum: Step back in time at this open-air museum in Stockholm for about $15 to $20.
• Northern Lights: Witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Kiruna for free, if you're lucky!

While these attractions offer a glimpse into the rich culture and natural wonders of Sweden, there are also plenty of free or low-cost sightseeing options available. For example, you can explore the stunning landscapes of the Swedish countryside, visit local markets, or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastal towns without spending a dime. So, don't worry if you're on a tight budget – Sweden has something for everyone!

• How much does it cost for Wi-Fi & communication when traveling to Sweden?

When planning your trip to Sweden, it's essential to consider the cost of Wi-Fi and communication to stay connected while exploring this beautiful country. Let's dive into the options and cost range in US dollars for accessing Wi-Fi in Sweden. One popular choice is renting a Wi-Fi router, which provides a reliable internet connection wherever you go. Depending on the rental company and plan you choose, prices can range from $5 to $15 per day. This option is perfect for those who want seamless connectivity without relying on public Wi-Fi. Another option is purchasing a SIM card with a data plan from a local provider. The cost will depend on the data plan you select and the provider you choose. On average, prices can range from $10 to $30 for a SIM card with a sufficient data allowance. This option is ideal for travelers who prefer using their own devices and want to have internet access on the go. If you're looking for free Wi-Fi, some hotels and accommodations offer this amenity for their guests. It's always a good idea to check before booking to ensure you can stay connected without any additional cost. Additionally, certain smartphone apps like "WifiMapper" and "Instabridge" provide access to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout Sweden, making it easier for you to find a connection wherever you are. It's important to note that the cost of Wi-Fi in Sweden can vary depending on the method of access and the data plan you choose. However, rest assured that there are plenty of options available for travelers to stay connected while enjoying their time in Sweden. So, don't let the fear of being disconnected hold you back from exploring this incredible country. Stay connected and make the most out of your trip to Sweden!

• How much does it cost for a visa when traveling to Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? Before you embark on your Scandinavian adventure, it's essential to understand the cost of obtaining a visa. The price range for visa applications varies depending on your country of citizenship and the type of passport application. For example, citizens from the United States can expect to pay around $100 for a tourist visa, while those from the United Kingdom may need to shell out approximately $80. However, it's worth noting that some countries enjoy visa-free access to Sweden, such as members of the European Union. Keep in mind that visa application fees can also differ based on the type of application, and certain countries may require additional fees for travel documents. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information on passport and visa requirements and fees, it's always wise to consult your local embassy or consulate. Stay informed and avoid any unexpected surprises that could dampen your travel plans.

• How much does it cost for insurance when traveling to Sweden?

The cost range of travel insurance for a trip to Sweden can vary depending on several factors. These factors include your age, the length of your trip, the type of coverage you need, and the insurance provider you choose. To give you a general idea of the costs involved, here are some guidelines:

For a single trip, the cost of travel insurance can range from around $50 to $200. This price range is influenced by factors such as the duration of your trip and the level of coverage you require. It's important to note that the cost may be higher for older travelers or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

If you are a frequent traveler and plan to visit Sweden multiple times within a year, an annual travel insurance policy might be a more cost-effective option. The cost for an annual policy can range from $200 to $600, depending on your age and the level of coverage you need.

If you want comprehensive coverage that includes not only medical expenses but also trip cancellation, lost baggage, and other potential risks, the cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on the duration of your trip and the coverage limits you choose.

It's important to compare travel insurance policies from different providers to find the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Make sure to carefully read the policy details and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking sites offer travel insurance as a benefit or add-on, so be sure to explore those options as well.

Comparing different travel insurance policies will help you find the best coverage for your trip to Sweden. Remember to read the policy details carefully, understand the coverage and exclusions, and consider any additional options available to you. By doing so, you can ensure a worry-free and protected travel experience.

• How much does it cost for family, couples or single when traveling to Sweden?

The cost of traveling to the country can vary widely depending on a number of factors, such as the length of the trip, the type of accommodation, the level of luxury, the activities planned, and the number of travelers. Here are some estimated costs for a trip to the country:

Airfare: The cost of airfare to the can vary depending on the departure city and the time of year. You can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a round-trip ticket from the United States to Sweden per person.

Accommodation: When it comes to accommodation, there are options to suit every budget. A budget hotel or hostel can cost you around $50 to $100 per night, while a mid-range hotel, luxury hotels, and ryokans can range from $150 to $500 per night.

Food and drink: Sweden offers a variety of dining options, from budget-friendly meals to more upscale experiences. A budget meal at a local restaurant can cost around $10 to $20 per person, while a mid-range meal can range from $30 to $50 per person.

Transportation: Getting around in Sweden is relatively easy, with a well-developed public transportation system. A single metro or train ticket can cost around $3 to $5, while a long-distance bullet train ticket can range from $50 to $100. Taxis and car rentals are also available, but they can add to the transportation costs.

Overall, the cost of traveling to Sweden can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, depending on your travel style and preferences. Whether you are a family, couple, or a single traveler, you can expect to spend around $1000 to $5000 for a trip to Sweden, taking into account the factors mentioned above.

• Methods to Save Money When Traveling to Sweden

Planning a trip to Sweden can be an exciting adventure, but it's no secret that travel expenses can quickly add up. However, with a little bit of know-how and some smart strategies, you can make your trip to Sweden cost-effective without compromising on the experience. Here are some tried and tested methods to save money when traveling to this beautiful Scandinavian country.

First and foremost, consider traveling during the off-peak season. This can significantly reduce your trip to Sweden cost as accommodation, flights, and attractions tend to be cheaper. Plus, you'll avoid the crowds and have a more authentic experience. So, pack your bags and head to Sweden during the shoulder seasons, such as spring or autumn, when the weather is still pleasant.

Another way to save money is by opting for budget-friendly accommodations. Instead of splurging on fancy hotels, consider staying in hostels or guesthouses. These options not only offer affordable rates but also provide an opportunity to meet fellow travelers and exchange valuable tips. Additionally, you can explore the option of renting an apartment or using home-sharing platforms, which can be more cost-effective, especially for longer stays.

When it comes to dining, eating out in Sweden can be quite expensive. However, you can still savor the local cuisine without breaking the bank. Look for local eateries, food markets, or street vendors where you can enjoy delicious Swedish dishes at a fraction of the cost. Don't forget to try the famous Swedish meatballs and traditional pastries!

Transportation costs can also be a significant part of your trip expenses. To save money, consider using public transportation instead of taxis or rental cars. Sweden has an efficient and well-connected public transport system, including buses, trains, and trams. You can also explore the option of renting a bike, which is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to explore the picturesque cities and countryside at your own pace.

Lastly, take advantage of the many free or low-cost attractions and activities that Sweden has to offer. From exploring the stunning national parks and hiking trails to visiting museums and historical sites, there are plenty of options that won't cost you a fortune. Research and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of these affordable or even free experiences.

By following these methods, you can save money while still enjoying a memorable trip to Sweden. So, start planning, and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that this Scandinavian gem has to offer!

• Tips for Traveling to Sweden

Planning a trip to Sweden? Well, you're in for a treat! Sweden, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. To make the most of your visit, here are eight essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Embrace the Swedish concept of "lagom." This unique term, meaning "just the right amount," reflects the Swedish lifestyle. So, when interacting with locals, try to strike a balance between being too reserved and overly enthusiastic.

2. Don't forget to explore the Swedish countryside. While Stockholm and Gothenburg are must-visit cities, Sweden's natural beauty lies in its picturesque landscapes. Venture out to the archipelagos, hike through national parks, and soak in the tranquility of the Swedish countryside.

3. Pack layers of clothing. Sweden's weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to dress in layers. This way, you can easily adjust to the changing temperatures and stay comfortable throughout your trip.

4. Learn a few Swedish phrases. While many Swedes speak English fluently, making an effort to learn some basic Swedish phrases will go a long way in connecting with the locals and immersing yourself in the culture.

5. Indulge in Swedish cuisine. From savory meatballs and herring to mouthwatering cinnamon buns, Swedish cuisine offers a delightful culinary experience. Don't miss out on trying traditional dishes and exploring local food markets.

6. Take advantage of the Swedish transport system. Sweden boasts an efficient and well-connected transport network. Whether it's trains, buses, or ferries, utilizing public transportation will not only save you money but also allow you to explore the country conveniently.

7. Respect nature and the environment. Swedes have a deep appreciation for their natural surroundings. Make sure to follow the "allemansrätten" (everyman's right) principle, which allows everyone to enjoy nature responsibly. Leave no trace and show respect for wildlife and private property.

8. Immerse yourself in Swedish traditions. Sweden has a rich cultural heritage, and participating in traditional festivities can enhance your travel experience. From Midsummer celebrations to Lucia processions, embracing these customs will provide a deeper understanding of Swedish culture.

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Sweden. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your adventure in this captivating Scandinavian country!

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Stretch your kronor with these tips for budget travel in Sweden

Feb 25, 2022 • 10 min read

Sweden’s extraordinary national parks – including Sarek, in Lapland – always cost nothing to explore © Johner Images / Getty Images

Let’s start with the obvious: Sweden is an expensive place. Still, that doesn’t mean your trip has to break the bank.

There are plenty of ways to bring costs down without affecting your enjoyment of everything this stunning, diverse country has to offer; all it takes is a bit of flexibility and planning. From accommodations and transportation to dining and sightseeing, here are our tips for how to experience Sweden without spending a fortune.

Consider less-traveled airports

Arlanda Airport, just north of Stockholm , is Sweden’s biggest hub and the entry point for most international air travelers. For many visitors, it makes the most sense in terms of both convenience and cost. However, depending on your itinerary, it may be worth looking into alternatives, especially if you will be spending time in western or southern Sweden. Landvetter Airport in Gothenburg (Göteborg) is the country’s second largest, with direct flights from many European cities, as well as a few from Africa and the Middle East. If you’re headed to Skåne , consider flying into Copenhagen and taking the Øresundståg train across the Øresund Bridge. It takes just 25 minutes from Copenhagen Airport to Malmö Central Station, with trains continuing up Sweden’s west coast to Gothenburg or northeast as far as Karlskrona, Växjö and Kalmar. There are also high-speed rail connections from Malmö to Stockholm and other points north.

Travel in the shoulder season

Sometimes you don’t have much choice of when to travel. Throughout Sweden, some seasonal summer attractions are only open from June to August, and if you want to experience natural phenomena like the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, you’ll need to visit at the right time of year .

If your plans are more general, however, the shoulder seasons from mid-April through May and September to mid-October are a good bet for decent weather and lower prices at many accommodations. If you’re heading to ski areas, avoid the period between mid-February and the first week of March, when Swedish schools have their winter breaks and resorts fill up with families.

Join membership programs for accommodation discounts

Found all over Sweden, hostels welcome travelers of all ages and provide some of the country’s most affordable accommodations. The  Swedish Tourist Association (STF) , which operates 250 diverse hostels, hotels, guest houses, cabins and mountain stations all over the country, is an excellent resource as you plan your trip. If you plan to stay at more than a few STF properties, it’s worth joining the organization to get access to reduced member rates at accommodations. You can join in advance or at the first STF property you visit; you’ll recoup the cost of the membership after about a week’s worth of overnights. 

There are also many Swedish hostels that are not part of the STF network, including the popular Generator Hostel near Stockholm’s central train station.

If you opt for hotels over hostels, it’s worth signing up for free membership programs. Scandic, Best Western and Nordic Choice Hotels are three of the largest chains in Sweden, and each has a membership program that provides discounted rates as well as various other benefits. 

Save on train travel

Among the many ways to get around Sweden , the train might be the most appealing. Sweden’s rail network is extensive, efficient and generally a comfortable and reasonably priced way to traverse the country. While you can often buy a train ticket at the last minute, even for long-distance journeys, many fares are cheaper if you book well in advance, especially for longer trips. Tickets can be purchased online through the national railway company, SJ , or through a mobile app. If these options fail, you can also buy tickets at stations. If you plan to do a lot of train travel, purchasing an Interrail or Eurail Pass before you arrive in Sweden will save you the most money.

Students, young people under the age of 26, and senior citizens (65 and up) can often score great last-minute deals on SJ’s website; these tickets must be purchased within 24 hours of departure. Students and those aged 26 and under are also eligible for a 15-percent discount on regular train fares with a valid International Student ID Card (ISIC) or a Swedish student card. Seniors receive 10 percent off all regular fares with ID.

Take the bus

Long-distance buses may not be as fast as trains, but they’re significantly cheaper and almost as comfortable. FlixBuss and Vy Buss are the two main companies, serving a vast array of destinations, with restrooms and wi-fi on board. There are also various smaller regional bus companies.

Buy a city transit pass

If you’re planning to make extensive use of urban or regional public transportation, a transit pass will help you make the best use of your money. In Stockholm and the surrounding area, single-use travelcards are available for 24 or 72 hours and include buses, the metro, commuter trains and some passenger ferries. Alternatively, you can pay 20 kronor ($2.15) for a reusable SL Access card that can be loaded with a wider range of travelcards or pay-as-you-go funds, or download the smartphone app “SL-Reseplanerare och biljetter” to get tickets and travel cards in mobile form.

Similarly, in Västra Götaland, the region that includes Gothenburg, you can save money by purchasing a 24- or 72-hour ticket valid for unlimited travel. In southernmost Sweden, Skånetrafiken also offers unlimited-ride tickets valid for 24 hours, 30 days or 10 days within a 30-day period.

Fuel up at breakfast and dine in

Swedish hotels are known for having some of the most bountiful breakfast buffets you’ll find anywhere, so you can easily load up your plate with enough food to keep you going for many hours. Many hostels also have breakfast available (though there may be a separate cost). Alternatively, many hostels have common kitchen areas where you can prepare your own meals instead of dining out. Even if you don’t have access to kitchen facilities, larger supermarkets often have salad bars or a decent selection of ready-to-eat food items that you can fill up on for less than the cost of a restaurant meal.

Eat out at lunchtime

Dining out in Sweden is expensive, yet there’s one easy way to keep restaurant meals from breaking the bank: take advantage of daily lunch specials, which are widely available and filling enough to make them your main meal. For around 100 kronor ($11) there’s usually a choice of two or three plated entrees with a side dish or two, often with a drink, bread and a salad bar included as well. Look for the words “Dagens lunch,” which you’ll often see advertised on pavement signboards.

Another good option is to head to a market hall – saluhall – where you can find numerous food vendors under a single roof, many serving daily lunch specials and to-go meals. In Stockholm, there are market halls at Hötorget, Östermalmstorg and Medborgarplatsen on Södermalm ; other cities with popular market halls include Gothenburg , Malmö, Lund and Västerås.

Drink strategically

To put it bluntly, alcohol is pricey in Sweden, and you’ll quickly run up quite a tab if you order drinks at restaurants and pubs. That said, it is possible to get a reasonably priced bottle of beer during happy hour, usually called “afterwork” in Swedish (er... Swenglish). The timing of these vary but typically runs from mid- or late afternoon to early evening.

Another option is to skip ordering a drink out and head instead to the nearest branch of the Swedish national liquor store  Systembolaget , where you can stock up on beer, wine and other alcohol for a relatively reasonable price. Remember to bring your passport or national ID card to prove you’re at least 20 years of age, and be aware that all branches of Systembolaget are closed on Sundays.

On a different note, Sweden has some of the cleanest drinking water in the world, so there’s really no reason to ever buy a bottle of water. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up at any sink. You’ll save money and reduce your impact on the environment at the same time.

Take a free walking tour

A guided walking tour is a perfect way to discover Sweden’s pedestrian-friendly cities and learn a bit of history as well. A variety of free tours are available in Sweden’s three largest cities, Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö , as well as in the historic university cities of Uppsala and Lund . Note that while there is no cost to take these tours, it’s good form to tip as generously as you are able, as the guides receive no salary.

Visit free museums

Stockholm has more than a dozen top-notch museums (not to mention other attractions ) that are completely free of charge. You can explore the city’s medieval past at Medeltidsmuseet , delve into its more recent history at Stockholms Stadsmuseum , learn about Swedish royal history at Livrustkammaren or discover the secrets of the Vikings and gape at the glittering Gold Room at Historiska Museet . Art lovers won’t want to miss Nationalmuseum and Moderna Museet (the latter also has a branch in Malmö).

In Gothenburg, free attractions include Världskulturmuseet (the Museum of World Cultures), Naturhistoriska Museet (the Natural History Museum) and the contemporary art museum Göteborgs Konsthall . 

Beyond the largest cities, there are endless free attractions in Sweden, from informative Naturum (visitor centers) at national parks and other protected areas to fascinating local history museums and a plethora of art museums and galleries. You’ll also find a variety of free open-air and living history museums such as Gamla Linköping , Vallby Friluftsmuseum , Wadköping and Västergötlands Museum .

Get a city attractions pass

If you’re in Stockholm or Gothenburg and are planning to visit numerous attractions in a short period of time, you may be able to save money by buying a Go City Pass . Available for 1, 2, 3 or 5 days, the passes include many top attractions, as well as sightseeing cruises and hop-on/hop-off tours by bus and boat. For both cities, if you are interested in several of the included attractions and tours, it’s worth doing the math to see if the Go City Pass will save you money. If you do buy a pass, you’ll want to plan your time so you maximize the benefits and leave your visits to free museums for other days, even if it means backtracking.

If you’re a museum lover visiting Gothenburg, an annual ticket to the city-run museums is another option. For 120 kronor ($13) – 100 kronor ($11) for age 62 and over – you can make an unlimited number of visits during a calendar year to the Gothenburg Art Museum, the Gothenburg City Museum, the Röhsska Museum of Design and Crafts and Sjöfartsmuseet Akvariet (the Maritime Museum and Aquarium).

Spend time in nature

Sweden’s 30 national parks preserve a diverse range of landscapes and are free to visit , as are more than 5000 nature reserves. There are hiking trails galore , many within easy reach of major cities and accessible by public transportation. The Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten) permits everyone to enjoy nature freely, provided you obey a few basic rules. If you enjoy camping, it’s easy to find plenty of gorgeous spots to pitch a tent, entirely free of charge.

If you’re looking for nature that’s a bit less wild, there are many beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll. These include many free botanical gardens, including those in Stockholm, Uppsala and Lund, as well as free parks at some castles and palaces including Drottningholm and Gripsholm . 

Daily Costs

Bed in shared hostel room: 200–400 SEK ($21.50–43) Private hostel room for two: 500–900 SEK ($53.50–96.50) Basic hotel room for two: 600–1500 SEK ($64–161) or more Self-catering apartment: 700–1400 SEK ($75–150) or more Public transport ticket: 35–107 SEK ($3.75–11.50) Coffee: 20–40 SEK ($2.15–4.30) Sandwich: 30–100 SEK ($3.20–10.70) Classic Swedish cinnamon bun: 25–35 SEK ($2.70–3.75) Beer/pint at the bar: 40–80 SEK ($4.30–8.60) Dinner for two: 400–1000 SEK or more ($43–107) Serving of Swedish meatballs with potatoes and lingonberries: 125–240 SEK ($13.50–25.75) A cup or cone of soft-serve ice cream: 30–45 SEK ($3.20–4.80)

You might also like: The very best things to do in Sweden: castles, canals and culinary delights Sweden's most stunning national parks: from Lapland to lowlands 9 of the best road trips in Sweden: take a chance on these

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Costs Of Travel: Is Sweden Expensive?

Introduction.

When planning a trip to Sweden, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether it is an expensive destination. With its reputation for high living standards and a strong currency, it’s natural to wonder if visiting Sweden will break the bank. In this article, we will explore the costs of travel in Sweden to help you make an informed decision about your budget.

Sweden, located in Northern Europe, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. The country offers a wide range of attractions, from the picturesque archipelagos and pristine lakes to the cosmopolitan capital city of Stockholm and the medieval charm of cities like Gothenburg and Malmö.

Transportation, accommodation, food and dining, entertainment, shopping, and miscellaneous expenses are standard components of any travel budget. Understanding how these costs add up in Sweden is crucial for planning a financially successful trip.

It’s worth noting that while Sweden can be relatively expensive compared to some other European countries, there are also ways to minimize costs and make your trip more affordable. By making smart choices and following some tips, you can enjoy all that Sweden has to offer without breaking the bank.

In the sections that follow, we’ll delve into each aspect of travel costs, providing insights and tips to help you budget your trip effectively. Whether you’re a budget traveler or willing to splurge, this guide will equip you with the information you need to have an amazing experience in Sweden.

Transportation Costs

Getting around in Sweden is relatively easy and convenient, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. However, it’s important to consider the costs associated with different modes of transportation.

If you’re arriving in Sweden by air, you’ll likely land at one of the major airports, such as Stockholm Arlanda, Gothenburg Landvetter, or Malmö Airport. From the airport, there are various options to reach your destination, including taxis, airport shuttles, and public transportation. Taxis are the most expensive option, while airport shuttles and public transportation provide more affordable alternatives.

Once you’re in Sweden, the most common mode of transportation within cities is public transportation. Major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö have well-connected bus, tram, and subway networks. The cost of a single trip ticket varies depending on the city but typically ranges from 30 SEK to 50 SEK (approximately $3 to $5). It’s worth noting that purchasing a rechargeable travel card, like the Stockholm Card, can offer discounted rates for multiple trips.

If you’re planning to explore the countryside or travel between cities, trains are an excellent option. Sweden has an extensive railway network that connects major cities and scenic destinations. The cost of a train ticket varies depending on the distance and class of travel. It’s recommended to book train tickets in advance to secure the best prices.

In addition to trains, buses are another affordable mode of transportation for traveling between cities in Sweden. Companies like FlixBus and Nettbuss offer various routes at competitive prices. However, keep in mind that bus travel may take longer than train travel.

For those who prefer driving, renting a car is an option. It provides more flexibility and convenience, particularly for exploring the countryside. However, it’s important to consider the cost of renting a car and fuel prices, which can be relatively high in Sweden.

In summary, transportation costs in Sweden can vary depending on your choices. Public transportation offers a cost-effective way to get around cities, while trains and buses are ideal for intercity travel. Renting a car provides flexibility but comes with additional expenses. By planning ahead and choosing the most suitable mode of transportation, you can manage your transportation costs effectively during your trip to Sweden.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is a significant factor when it comes to budgeting for your trip to Sweden. The country offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and even unique alternatives like Airbnb.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, hostels are a popular choice. They provide budget accommodations with shared facilities, allowing you to save on costs while still having a comfortable place to sleep. Prices for hostels can range from around 200 SEK to 600 SEK (approximately $20 to $60) per night, depending on the location and season.

If you prefer more privacy and amenities, hotels and guesthouses are available at varying price points. In major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, expect hotel prices to be higher compared to smaller towns or rural areas. On average, a mid-range hotel room can cost anywhere from 800 SEK to 2000 SEK (approximately $80 to $200) per night.

If you’re traveling in a group or prefer self-catering options, renting an apartment or holiday home could be a more cost-effective choice. Websites like Airbnb offer a wide range of accommodation options across Sweden, allowing you to find a place that suits your budget and preferences.

It’s worth noting that accommodation prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year and popular tourist seasons. During peak travel periods, such as summer and major holidays, prices tend to be higher, so it’s advisable to book in advance to secure the best deals.

Another option to consider, especially for nature enthusiasts, is camping. Sweden offers numerous campsites in scenic locations, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors at a lower cost. Campsite fees can range from 100 SEK to 300 SEK (approximately $10 to $30) per night.

Overall, when planning your accommodation in Sweden, it’s important to consider your budget, preferred level of comfort, and location. Whether you choose a hostel, hotel, apartment, or campsite, there are options to suit every budget. By researching and booking in advance, you can find the best accommodation deals and ensure a comfortable stay without overspending.

Food and Dining Costs

Exploring the local cuisine is an essential part of any travel experience, and Sweden offers a diverse range of dining options to satisfy your taste buds. However, it’s important to consider the costs associated with dining out in Sweden.

In major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, you can find a wide variety of restaurants and eateries catering to different budgets. Fine dining establishments and upscale restaurants tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from 300 SEK to 800 SEK (approximately $30 to $80) or more per person for a three-course meal.

If you’re looking for more affordable options, consider trying out the traditional Swedish street food or visiting local food markets. Street food vendors offer delicious and budget-friendly snacks like hot dogs and kebabs, which typically cost around 50 SEK to 100 SEK (approximately $5 to $10) per meal.

To save on dining costs, you can also explore the concept of “dagens lunch” or “dagens rätt.” These are lunch specials offered by many restaurants, especially during weekdays. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal at a reasonable price, often ranging from 100 SEK to 200 SEK (approximately $10 to $20).

If you prefer to cook your meals, you can explore grocery stores and supermarkets to purchase ingredients. Sweden has a wide range of grocery chains, including ICA, Coop, and Hemköp, where you can find affordable and locally sourced produce. This option is particularly suitable if you’re staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities.

For those who enjoy a drink, it’s important to note that alcohol prices in Sweden can be quite high due to heavy taxes. If you plan on having alcoholic beverages, budget accordingly or consider enjoying the local non-alcoholic specialties.

Overall, food and dining costs can vary depending on your preferences and choices. By exploring different dining options, making use of lunch specials, and considering self-catering alternatives, you can manage your food expenses effectively while still enjoying the flavors of Sweden.

Entertainment and Activities Costs

When it comes to entertainment and activities in Sweden, there is a wide array of options to suit every interest and budget. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to see and do throughout the country.

If you’re a museum lover, Sweden boasts a range of fascinating museums and historical sites. In Stockholm, you can explore the Vasa Museum, Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the ABBA Museum. Prices for museum admissions typically range from 100 SEK to 200 SEK (approximately $10 to $20), depending on the attraction.

For nature enthusiasts, Sweden offers breathtaking landscapes and national parks to explore. Entry to national parks is generally free, allowing you to hike, camp, or enjoy picnics amidst stunning natural surroundings. However, if you plan to engage in specific activities, such as guided wildlife tours or Nordic skiing, there may be additional costs involved.

Outdoor adventures like kayaking, cycling, and dog sledding are popular activities in Sweden. Prices for these activities can range from 500 SEK to 1500 SEK (approximately $50 to $150), depending on the duration and level of expertise required.

Attending cultural events, such as concerts, theater performances, and festivals, is also a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture. Ticket prices can vary depending on the event and venue, but you can expect to pay anywhere from 200 SEK to 1000 SEK (approximately $20 to $100).

If you’re a fan of winter sports, Sweden offers excellent opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Lift passes and equipment rentals at popular ski resorts can cost between 400 SEK to 800 SEK (approximately $40 to $80) per day.

It’s important to research and plan ahead for any activities or attractions you wish to explore during your trip to Sweden. Look for package deals, discounts, or combination tickets that offer savings, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites or engage in several activities.

Remember, there are also plenty of free or low-cost options for entertainment and activities in Sweden. Exploring the charming streets of Gamla Stan in Stockholm, taking a stroll along the scenic coastline, or visiting local markets are enjoyable experiences without any entrance fees.

By budgeting for entertainment and activities and seeking out affordable or free options, you can make the most of your time in Sweden while keeping your expenses in check.

Shopping Costs

Sweden offers a unique shopping experience, with a wide range of options for fashion, design, and local crafts. From stylish boutiques and department stores to bustling street markets, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in some retail therapy during your visit.

In major cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, you’ll find renowned shopping districts such as Drottninggatan and Avenyn, where you can discover a mix of international brands, local designers, and specialty stores. Prices in these areas can vary depending on the brand and product, but generally, you can expect mid-range to high-end prices.

If you’re looking for bargains and discounts, keep an eye out for sales periods, which typically occur during specific times of the year. Many stores offer significant discounts during these sales, allowing you to snag great deals on clothing, accessories, and home goods.

When it comes to Swedish design and craftsmanship, you’ll find a plethora of unique and high-quality products. From iconic brands like IKEA and H&M to local artisans and designers, there are endless options to choose from. Keep in mind that artisanal and handcrafted items may be more expensive, reflecting the craftsmanship and quality.

Another shopping experience not to be missed in Sweden is visiting local markets. Farmers’ markets, flea markets, and vintage markets offer a chance to browse through a variety of goods, from fresh produce and local delicacies to antiques and second-hand treasures. Prices at these markets are often reasonable, and you can find unique items to take home as souvenirs.

When shopping in Sweden, be aware that the country has a value-added tax (VAT) known as “moms” included in the price tag. However, as a non-EU resident, you may be eligible for a VAT refund if your total purchases exceed a certain amount. Make sure to ask for a tax-free shopping form and inquire about the process at the store.

Lastly, it’s important to consider your budget and prioritize your shopping experiences. Set a spending limit and focus on buying items that truly resonate with you or make for meaningful gifts. Don’t forget to leave room in your luggage for your newfound treasures!

Overall, shopping costs in Sweden can range from affordable to higher-end, depending on your preferences and the items you’re looking for. With careful planning, you can enjoy a satisfying shopping experience while staying within your budget.

Miscellaneous Expenses

When budgeting for your trip to Sweden, it’s essential to consider miscellaneous expenses that may not fall into specific categories but can still impact your overall budget. These miscellaneous expenses can include various aspects of your trip, from communication and internet usage to tips and additional fees.

One common miscellaneous expense is communication and internet usage. If you plan to use your mobile phone while in Sweden, it’s important to check with your provider about international roaming charges or consider purchasing a local SIM card for more cost-effective communication.

Internet access is widely available in Sweden, with many hotels, cafes, and public places offering free Wi-Fi. However, if you require a more reliable and constant internet connection, you may need to consider purchasing a prepaid data plan or accessing Wi-Fi through a mobile hotspot device.

Tipping is not as common in Sweden as it is in some other countries. In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is still customary to round up the total or leave a small tip for exceptional service. The amount is discretionary, but it’s generally appreciated to leave a 5-10% tip if you feel satisfied with the service.

Transportation fees for specific attractions or additional services can also contribute to miscellaneous expenses. For example, entrance fees for certain museums, guided tours, or ferry rides to nearby islands can add up. It’s important to research and factor in these costs when planning your itinerary.

If you plan on using public restrooms, it’s worth noting that some facilities may require a small fee to access. Carry some change or keep a card handy in case you encounter such situations.

Another miscellaneous expense to consider is travel insurance. While it may not seem directly related to your day-to-day expenses, having travel insurance is essential for your peace of mind and can protect you financially against unforeseen circumstances or emergencies during your trip.

Lastly, souvenirs and personal shopping can also fall under miscellaneous expenses. It’s always nice to bring back a little piece of Sweden to remember your trip, whether it’s a small trinket, traditional handicraft, or local specialty. Remember to allocate a portion of your budget for these items.

By considering these miscellaneous expenses and factoring them into your overall budget, you can ensure that you’re prepared for any additional costs that may arise during your trip to Sweden. Being mindful of these expenses will help you make informed decisions and have a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.

Comparison with Other Countries

When it comes to travel expenses, it’s always helpful to compare the costs of visiting Sweden with those of other countries. Understanding how Sweden stacks up against other destinations can give you a better perspective on its affordability and help you make informed decisions when planning your trip.

Compared to some other European countries, Sweden can be considered relatively expensive. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of living and travel expenses can vary widely within each country. Different factors, such as exchange rates, inflation rates, and government policies, impact the overall cost of travel in a particular destination.

Some neighboring countries, such as Norway and Denmark, share similar high living standards and costs. These Scandinavian countries often have comparable prices for accommodations, transportation, and dining. However, it’s worth noting that there may be some variations depending on specific locations and regions within each country.

On the other hand, compared to countries like Switzerland or Iceland, Sweden may be considered more affordable. These countries are known for their stunning natural landscapes, but they also come with higher price tags due to their strong currencies and high cost of living.

In comparison to popular tourist destinations in Western Europe, including France, Italy, or the United Kingdom, Sweden can be relatively on par or slightly more expensive. However, it’s important to consider that prices can vary within each country, particularly in major cities versus rural areas.

It’s worth mentioning that despite higher expenses in certain areas, Sweden offers a unique and enriching travel experience. The country’s natural beauty, well-preserved culture, and high-quality services justify the costs for many travelers.

Ultimately, the affordability of your trip to Sweden or any other country depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the experiences you prioritize. By doing thorough research, comparing prices, and planning accordingly, you can tailor your trip to fit your budget and still have a memorable and enjoyable time in Sweden.

Sweden offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and modern amenities. While it may be perceived as an expensive destination, proper planning and budgeting can help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Transportation costs in Sweden can be managed by choosing cost-effective options like public transportation or booking in advance for train or bus travel. Accommodation costs can vary depending on your preferences, but with options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, you can find accommodations that suit your budget and needs.

Food and dining costs can range from affordable street food to high-end restaurants, allowing you to explore a variety of options within your budget. Entertainment and activities expenses can be managed by planning ahead, utilizing discounts, and exploring affordable or free attractions.

When it comes to shopping, Sweden offers a range of options, from high-end designer boutiques to local markets where you can find unique and affordable treasures. Miscellaneous expenses, such as communication fees and tips, should also be considered and factored into your budgeting process.

Comparing the costs of travel in Sweden to other countries can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions. While Sweden may be relatively expensive compared to some other destinations, its unique experiences and quality services make it worth the investment.

In conclusion, with careful planning, budgeting, and prioritizing, you can have an unforgettable trip to Sweden. Consider your preferences, set a realistic budget, and make use of money-saving strategies to maximize your experiences while keeping your expenses in check. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the incredible beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Sweden without breaking the bank.

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Traveling to Sweden – the Ultimate Guide

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

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

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

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

Let’s dive into it.

Sweden at a Glance

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

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

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

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

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

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

What do you associate with Sweden? 

Good to Know Traveling to Sweden

Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)

Population: 10,380,491 (2020)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traveling to Sweden – Get Inspired 

Places to visit.

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

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

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

Scania, or as we say Skåne 

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

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

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

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

Gothenborg 

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

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

Things To See and Do in Sweden

Swedish nature .

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

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

“Allemansrätten” – the right to roam 

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

See the Northern Lights

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

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

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

Stockholm Old Town

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

Vasa Museum 

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

Stockholm Archipelago

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

Traveling to Sweden – Visit  a Castle 

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

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

Famous Swedish Landmarks

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

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

Swedish Experiences To Try

A classic swedish fika .

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

“Dagens” 

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

Go for a Nature Walk

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

Winter Fun Activities

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

Who Is Sweden For?

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

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

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

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

Single Traveler

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

Traveling to Sweden – Plan Your Vacation in Sweden

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

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

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

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

Spring and Fall

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

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

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

When to see the Northern Lights?

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

Swedish Temperatures, Rainfall, and Daylight

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

Source: NOAA and Google

Sweden Travel Costs 

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

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

Accommodation Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation in Sweden

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

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

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

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

How to Get Around

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

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

Airport Transfer

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

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

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

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

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

What to Eat When Vacationing in Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack for Your Trip to Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Relevant Travel Articles:

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

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Written by  Veronica

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for stopping by,

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

Cheers, Mathew&Deloris

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

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

Hi Veronica,

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

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

Cheers, Matt

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

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

Thank you, glad you found it helpful.

Hi Veronica.

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

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

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

Great post, keep up the good work!

Hi Samantha,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Top luxury hotels in Sweden

Hotel Pigalle

Bank Hotel, a Member of Small Luxury Hotels

Radisson Collection, Strand Hotel, Stockholm

Hôtel Reisen in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Upper House

1909 Sigtuna Stads Hotell

Nobis Hotel Stockholm, a Member of Design Hotels™

Grand Hôtel Stockholm

Sweden prices guide. how much does a trip to sweden cost the estimated travel expenses for food, public transport, attractions entrance and accommodation..

Currency in Sweden is Swedish Krona

If you are travelling alone to sweden, depending on your expectations, you will pay for an overnight stay from 65 usd (695 sek) for a hostel to 195 usd (2,000 sek) for a luxury hotel., the other daily costs you have to pay when travelling to sweden are:.

• Food 10 USD (108 SEK)
• Meals in restaurants 18 USD (196 SEK)
• Bottled water 1.40 USD (15 SEK)
• Local transportation 13 USD (140 SEK)
• Entrance tickets 41 USD (435 SEK)
• Alcoholic beverages 4.80 USD (51 SEK)

As you can see - a stay for a few days in Sweden can cost 386 USD (4,100 SEK) or 1,300 USD (14,000 SEK) , depending on whether you are a frugal tourist or you are planning to spend a luxurious holiday in Sweden.

How much Swedish Krona should I have for one week in Sweden?

If you want to spend a week in Sweden the cost of your stay will be:

• 900 USD (9,500 SEK) - a cheap stay for 7 days in Sweden
• 843 USD (8,900 SEK) - a budget travel for 7 days in Sweden
• 1,300 USD (14,000 SEK) for a one week of comfortable stay in Sweden
• 3,100 USD (33,000 SEK) for a week of luxury holidays in Sweden

How much money do I need per day to stay in Sweden?

If you are travelling alone to Sweden, 120 USD a day should be enough. If you choose a hotel for your stay in Sweden, the price will rise to 120 USD. A couple will have to pay around 210 USD for one day in Sweden. A family with two children should have 370 USD for one day stay in Sweden.

How to visit Sweden on a low budget? How to travel Sweden cheaply? How to save money while travelling in Sweden?

In order not to exceed reasonable expenses during a trip to Sweden, which we estimate at 120 USD (1,200 SEK) for a one day, you must comply with the following rules:

• Choose to stay in a hostel (65 USD (695 SEK) ) or in a cheap hotel (36 USD (383 SEK) ).
• Use public transport. The price for a one-way ticket is 3.30 USD (35 SEK) and for a monthly pass 80 USD (850 SEK) .
• Make your own breakfast and own dinner. Daily shopping cost in the shop is around 10 USD (108 SEK) in Sweden.
• Choose restaurants outside the city centre and close to tourist attractions. Meal in a cheap restaurant cost around 11 USD (120 SEK) in Sweden. McMeal at McDonalds (or equivalent meal in other fastfood restaurant) costs approximately 8.40 USD (90 SEK) .

Car-related costs are mainly fuel, road tolls and parking fees. Of course, the price depends on the purpose of the journey and energy efficiency of a vehicle.

In Sweden, you will pay for the fuel accordingly:

• Petrol price in Sweden is around: 1.90 USD (20 SEK)
• Diesel fuel price in Sweden is around: 1.80 USD (19 SEK)
• 1kg sausage: 17 USD (181 SEK)
• 0,5 kg bread: 2.30 USD (25 SEK)
• 10 eggs: 3.10 USD (33 SEK)
• 1kg cheese: 9.00 USD (96 SEK)
• 1 liter milk: 1.20 USD (13 SEK)
• 1 kg apples: 2.70 USD (28 SEK)
• Bottle of local beer (0,5 liter): 6.60 USD (70 SEK)

Car rental prices in Sweden

• What is the average price for a car rental in Sweden?
• How much does it typically cost to rent a car in Sweden?
• Is it cheaper to rent a car for a week in Sweden?

What is most famous in Sweden? How much does an average entrance to travel attractions in Sweden cost?

The most important tourist attractions in sweden that we recommend:, the museums worth a visit in sweden:, are there any free attractions in sweden what can you do for free in sweden, on warmer days, we recommend walking in parks in sweden. below is a list of the largest and most interesting parks in sweden. parks in sweden:, alcohol prices in sweden, sweden - whisky prices comparison, sweden - rum prices comparison, sweden - vodka prices comparison, sweden - gin prices comparison, book the best hotels in sweden - in partnership with booking.com, compare hotel rates in sweden and save up to 80%.

Stallmästaregården Hotel, Stockholm, a Member of Design Hotels

Center Hotel- Sure Hotel by Best Western Center

Forenom Aparthotel Stockholm Alvik

City Backpackers Hostel

Best Western Princess Hotel

Lord Nelson Hotel

Compare travel cost and expenses in specific cities in sweden 2024.

Find cheap flights to Sweden from $225

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to sweden departing on 9/7. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to sweden.

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Best Sweden Flight Deals

Cheapest round-trip prices found by our users on KAYAK in the last 72 hours

Good to know

Faqs - booking sweden flights, do the airports in sweden offer children's services.

Yes. Gothenburg Landvetter Airport has a children’s play area located in the International Departure Hall at Gate 19 and in the non-Schengen transit hall, Airside. Stockholm Arlanda International Airport (ARN) has whimsical travel-themed play areas located at Gate 67 of Terminal 2, Gate 31 of Terminal 4, and Gate 3 of Terminal 5, Airside.

Which airport should I fly into if I want to visit Tivoli Gardens?

Tivoli Gardens is one of the major attractions in Copenhagen and the nearest airport to it is Copenhagen International Airport (CPH) which receives flights from the US. To get there, you can get on a layover flight from cities like Boston aboard either Play Airlines, Icelandair with JetBlue Airlines, or Tap Air Portugal.

Do the airports in Stockholm have wheelchair services?

Stockholm Arlanda International Airport pre-booked offers wheelchair assistance where wheelchair users can be transported from the departure area to the lounges or the pick-up area for their means of transport. Bromma Stockholm Airport (BMA) also provides wheelchair assistance services, accessible washrooms, and handicapped parking spots.

Which airport in Sweden is close to Linkoping?

Luckily there is an airport in Linkoping, Sweden that receives flights from the United States. Linkoping City Airport (LPI) receives layover flights from locations in the US like New York, Los Angeles, Boston, and Orlando (MCO) aboard KLM and Delta Airlines operated by KLM Cityhopper with a layover in Amsterdam (AMS).

Which airport is closest to Folkets Park?

Folkets Park is the oldest leisure park in Sweden and a top tourist attraction each year. The park is in Malmo City in the county of Skane, so Gothenburg Airport is geographically the closet of the hubs. The drive from there is about 3h via the E20 motorway to the park.

How do I get to Linkoping?

The high-tech city of Linkoping is located almost midway between Stockholm and Gothenburg. A drive from Stockholm Airport will be just over 2h while a drive from Gothenburg Airport will be over 3h, so you can drive there or take other ground transportation after your flight from the US to Sweden if you wish to pay a visit.

Is a visa necessary to visit Sweden?

A visa is unnecessary if you are a national from the Schengen zone, or if you are from one of the countries (62) that are exempt from visa requirements. Since the US is exempt, no visa is required, and you can stay for a maximum of 90 days within a period of six months.

Is there an airport close to Gotland Island?

Yes, there is a major international airport close to Gotland Island. The largest island in Sweden lies not far off the eastern mainland, so both Stockholm-Arlanda Airport and Stockholm-Bromma Airport are within proximity. Though Stockholm-Bromma is closer geographically, you can get daily flights from Stockholm-Arlanda Airport to Visby Airport (VBY).

How long is the flight to Sweden?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Sweden takes 14h 28m, covering a distance of 4578 miles. The most popular route is New York - Stockholm with an average flight time of 8h 05m.

What is the cheapest flight to Sweden?

The cheapest ticket to Sweden from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $343 one-way, and $283 round-trip. The most popular route is New York John F Kennedy Intl to Stockholm Arlanda and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $445.

Which airlines fly to Sweden?

Scandinavian Airlines, Air France & Delta fly the most frequently from the United States to Sweden. The most popular route is from New York to Stockholm, and Air France, Delta and KLM fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Sweden?

The next most popular destinations are Gothenburg (11%) and Vilhelmina (0.8%). Searches for flights to Jönköping (0.6%), to Malmö (0.5%) and to Kramfors (0.5%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Sweden

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Sweden flight deals.
• Travelers flying from the United States to Sweden are most likely to land at Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT) if they’re planning to explore cities like Gothenburg, Lerum, Lindome, Barhult, and Kungalv. This airport has a single passenger terminal with several terminal buildings with the one on the left catering to international services.
• Upon arrival in Sweden at GOT, travelers can access the lounges to rest as they await transfer services or a connecting flight. The Vinga Lounge located at Gate 18 Airside of the International Terminal and the SAS Lounge located at Gate 16 of the International Terminal Building provide food, beverages, printing, and photocopying services.
• Flying from the United States to Sweden is easy because there are a number of airlines that have non-stop flights to Sweden cities from different locations in the US like Boston (BOS), Denver (DEN), New York (JFK), Washington (IAD), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), and Chicago (ORD). These include Scandinavian Airlines, Air France, SWISS, United Airlines, Lufthansa, and Delta Airlines.
• If you plan on attending the Stolkholm Early Music Festival which happens in Gotgatan to celebrate Nordic baroque, renaissance, and medieval music that happens annually in the first week of June, book a flight from New York aboard Scandinavian Airlines, or from Chicago aboard Scandinavian Airlines.
• The law in Sweden states that children shorter than 4 feet and roughly 14 years and below shall use a special protective device to secure them in a car like a baby car seat, child car seat, booster seat, or booster cushion. So make sure to rent child seats as well when renting cars in Sweden or carry your own.
• The northern European nation of Sweden lies between Norway and Finland and its southern region is the most populous part of the country with several major cities. If your flight from the US to Sweden lands at Gothenburg Landvetter Airport (GOT), you have access to Malmo in the south and Karlstad to the north.
• If you arrive in the capital city of Stockholm, you’ll land at either Stockholm-Arlanda Airport (ARN) or Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA). Both of them open the eastern coast of the country, including the cities of Uppsala, Gavle and Umea as well as the islands that inhabit the Gulf of Bothnia.
• The central region of Sweden encompasses the counties of Jämtlands Lan, Vasternorrlands Lan and Kopparbergs Lan and all three are reachable from the airports in Gothenburg and Stockholm. Alternatively, you can also take a local flight into Östersund Airport (OSD) or consider a flight from Oslo, Norway, which is within proximity.
• The Swedish county of Norrbottens Lan lies partially within the Arctic Circle. The towns of Jokkmokk, Gallivare and Kiruna are popular destinations for winter sports and if you wish to take in a bit of skiing on your vacation, then hop a local flight from the south to either Lulea Airport (LLA) or Kiruna Airport (KRN).
• Malmohus Lan represents Sweden’s most southern county and is very close to Denmark. If Stockholm-Arlanda Airport is the destination of your flight from the US to Sweden, you can fly Scandinavian Airlines to Malmo Airport (MMX). It’s also worth considering a flight into Copenhagen, Denmark and then driving from there (about 40m).

Top 5 airlines flying to Sweden

Carly the flight attendant was extremely helpful and very accommodating to passengers on the flight from what I noticed. Couldn't be more satisfied with the service and assistance from Delta's flight attendant, Thanks again Carly!!

I didn’t not like that I could not select my seat and ended up with the worse seat.

I didn’t like that I could not select my seat and was assigned a seat when I checked in at LAX

Delta did an awful job w logistics at DTW. Missed connection. We were there an hour early. SUCKED

Inflight entertainment stopped working as we taxi to runway and never worked again until landing and taxi to gate. Grrrr

Had to run to make it only to have the flight delayed to wait for all the late connectors Second drink service skipped up

Boarding was a sh!t show. JFK BOARDING was awful. The agent called three sections at a time Clogging the area then yelling at people to not block the walk way. How are you going to call delta one , premium select and comfort plus at once and the yell at highest paying passengers. Need to do a lot better and the flight attendants in the galley need to understand that their voices travel. They were talking about others and everyone in the cabin heard them

Uncomfortable seats on 14 hour flight. Mediocre food. On time and great crew.

Please see my lengthy description on MSP to Atlanta survey. Tailbone is killing me from old hard seats. Seat would not recline and were not near exit row. Entertainment did not work properly and couldn’t use. No audio and touch screen failed. 3 plus hours of discomfort in narrower seats than previous flight not in comfort plus. Very dissatisfied and deserve comfort plus charges refunds, at the very least, for both my wife and I. The plane needs to be retired. Please feel free to contact me directly for further details.

MSP to Atlanta was much better than Atlanta to St. Kitts. Paid $180 each for myself and wife for Delta comfort from Atlanta to St. Kitts. Seats were more narrow and obviously old and worn out. Tailbone is killing me. Seat would not recline. Seats behind reclined and we were not an exit row or in front of an exit row. Entertainment did not work in that the movie jumped forward and back and there was no audio. The plug in the arm rest was loose. Flight attendant tried “resetting” the video for my seat but no good. She never checked back. Someone else near me had the same issue. Touch screen was unresponsive. No where near as comfortable as MSP to Atlanta flight. 3 plus hrs. flight time without the basic amenities and not even remotely close to comfortable but paid for Comfort plus. I will be very disappointed if I have the same on my return “Comfort Plus” flight St. Kitts to Atlanta. At the very least my wife and I should be refunded for round trip “Comfort Plus” charges. Please feel free to contact me directly for more details.

The food from Lagos to Amsterdam was was very poor compared to AMS-YYZ

The flight was again delayed for more then 2 hours with some lousy explanation regarding the reason of the delay. Although the flight was delayed for more than 2 hours, no refreshments were offered (according to EU regulations). Last 4 flights on KLM - always at least 2 hrs late. So be prepared that you cannot plan anything with KLM.

The flight was delayed for 2 hrs. Because they didn’t have a crew to fly. And it is not a first time for klm to do that. Last time they cancelled my filght and rebooked me 3 days later. Not reliable airline

We left one hour late because of technical difficulties. The economy comfort seats are great for the price. The crew was mediocre, they do not provide a pleasant experience, they just deliver food and drinks and give orders, not very amicable, no service and hospitality focus.

Booked connecting flights with KlM. My serving flight was the furthest part of the airport. On arrival in Zurich. My two cases arrived but only one carry on belong to my son. His three suitcase didn't arrive. After enquiring we discovered they were still in Amsterdam. We landed at 11.12. We eventually left the airport just after one.

no issues at all... Kudos to the food. This time was really really good

Overall a good experience. We were disappointed when we had to check our carry on due to the plane being full. KLM hadn’t notified us and we had valuable items in the carry on but they still made us check it. Some of the food was great and some was mediocre. Crew is really kind and funny.

The worst airline. Cancelled flight 30 min before boarding and rebooked on flight after 3 days.

It was nice to be on a legacy airline, people try at least.

I travel frequently. The flight was late again... KLM should really try and be on time

I had economy plus and it’s definitely worth the price. The seats are so comfortable, so much space, great large TV screens, and you get fed often. Really decent food (although other fish was overcooked.) They do need better movie choices. The crew is the best. Super friendly and accommodating. So much better than most American run Airlines.

The flight was on time and loading was fine. I really disliked that all drinks other than coffee or tea had a cost. Deplaning was also an issue as people did not wait for those in front of them to get out before they pushed forward

Flight was delayed 3 hours. Pilot cancelled flight under 4 people volunteered to change their seats to economy from business class.

My seat was not the one I paid for, the crew was very curt, and the cabin was extremely warm.

Old plane with terrible business class seats - good food and service. Boarding was a joke with business class boarding last.

Best airline to travel on a budget- really like their reasonably priced access to the SAS lounges where available.

The flight was cancelled early on and messed up the whole vacation and hard to get a refund from Kayak as they owned the ticket and of course they did not believe that SAS cancelled the ticket. Definite bad side to third party. SAS had rescheduled but overlapped the connecting flights. That did not work. Flight was cancelled long ago but Kayak still has it. Like it was taken? Bad IT ? Or all assumptions and no follow up which is the whole IT world. It needs to wake up and be more efficient. Especially as the world is going, there will be no freedom to do anything. And we will be living like the Middle Ages. Yeah, go read up on that while you still can.

Boarding the plane outside in the rain was a pain. Very safe flight

Flight was delayed slightly but was very smooth. It was a short flight but comfortable.

Not worth paying for business class on this airline. The seating is exactly the same as the rest of the plane. Crowded. Horrible food.

I will never fly this airline again. Checking in was poor , we had to go back to the check in counter at Raleigh - Durham international airport three times because they didn’t issue my boarding pass but rather duplicated my husband’s twice which caused a big headache at the passport control at the airport which triggered security alert and wouldn’t let us pass through we we had to wait for long time to be able to explain and clear everything after talking to the supervisor.. No food on the plane , not even crackers. No food was offered to buy ether . No ear phone was provided . Very little time to make from one plane to another and nobody to assist with smooth transition. Flight itself , we felt safe so thank you to the pilots . But customer service was terrible . We spent $ 2500 on 2 tickets, so I cannot say that service was consistent with the price .

Seats are way too much now with these new airplanes especially long flights like we had. I was 7 month pregnant and in a lot of discomfort due to small seats.

Food was horrible. This wasn’t business class. No leg space, can’t sleep in row position, huge delay

I liked how easy my transfers between flights in Keflavik were. I would have appreciated more food options in Keflavik.

The plane was flaming hot! Could not breathe. Everyone coughing from heat. Awful.

My biggest problem was the flight from KEF to DUB was delayed, which caused me to miss my connecting flight in DUB and we were forced into an unplanned 10-hour layover in DUB. Crew and boarding staff were all very friendly but this was a real inconvenience and especially uncomfortable for my disabled wife.

Not much! This was my first flight with Iceland air and unfortunately it wasn’t what I have expected. My luggage is lost nothing as of yet where it was left. Not a good service at all!!

The seat size was more like a domestic than an international flight. In fact, i would compare the ammenities, quality and service to a short hall ryan air flight, which was unexpected for an international flight. The plane was extremely hot so sleeping was difficult. My biggest complaint was that they are very strict on carry on luggage only allowing it to weigh 10kg/22lb. I try to limit myself to a carryon so i don't have to mess with bagage claim, but the wieght restriction made it impossible. I have never had a carry on weight restriction (at least enforced) on an international flight. Will not be including them in future searches.

Fare was much lower with a layover in London as I was able avoid numerous landing fees that would have been added to the ticket price had I booked a direct flight to Amsterdam.

We have business class seats from Los Angeles to London. The crew is friendly and provided great service. The flight was very comfortable and very smooth. Will use this airlines again in the future.

The flight was delayed numerous times with inconsistent updates and very ambiguous information. When it was finally cancelled the logistics of handing out vouchers and rebooking was extremely chaotic. Meal vouchers were completely inadequate for the airport restaurants, and not even accepted at some. All-in-all, it was a very disappointing experience.

Terrible. The flight from Islamabad to London took 3 hours more then previously planned, I missed my connection to Chicago, and instead had to go New York, spend an extra day before arriving at my final destination. The return leg of the journey was similar. The connection time in Qatar was shrinked to less then an hour unannounced, I had to scramble to barely make it to my flight to Islamabad. Terrible experience, never using British airways again.

The crew on this flight were attentive, efficient and friendly. It really made for an enjoyable flight.

The crew on this flight were excellent. They were friendly and attentive. It really made the flight more enjoyable.

They canceled my flight , they put me on a different flight that was delayed and the connection was lost . They lost my luggage. And now I’m stuck with any of my belongings.

British Airways canceled our plane and gave us a new flight scheduled to leave in only three hours, so we had to drop everything and rush to the airport. The new itinerary only left us a one hour layover in Madrid, which was too short because the plane landed late and so we missed our connecting flight. We were then booked onto a flight scheduled to take off 8 hours later, and were not given any compensation or remedial measures.

Seat layout, flight/club attendant service, food variety and quality could have been better. Business class Standard is visibly low compared with 6 other airlines that we have traveled for the past two years.

Despite many attempts to work out a change, neither British Airways nor Kayak nor Chatdeal would allow us to cancel or change this flight so we lost all of the payments when we were not able to fly. Absolutely terrible customer service. We will never use either of the services again.

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Is Sweden Expensive? A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Homepage Blog Travel Information

Posted Aug 25, 2023 in Travel Information

Sweden, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, often tops the list of dream destinations for many travelers. But a common question arises: Is Sweden expensive? 

While Sweden is often perceived as a high-cost destination, especially when compared to other countries, understanding the nuances of its economy and tourism sector can help travelers make the most of their budget.  

The Cost of Living in Sweden Vs Other Countries 

Understanding Sweden's living costs in relation to other countries is crucial, especially in areas directly impacting tourism.  

Sweden's high living costs can be attributed to factors like high wages, a robust welfare system, and a strong focus on sustainability and quality. While this ensures a high standard of living for its residents, it also means that tourists might find certain services or products pricier than back home. 

However, the emphasis on quality and sustainability in Sweden ensures that you get value for every krona spent.   

How to Budget for a Trip to Sweden 

Crafting a budget for your Swedish adventure requires a blend of research and planning. With careful planning and a strategic approach to budgeting, you can savor all that this beautiful country has to offer without draining your savings. Here's how to create a budget-friendly itinerary for your Swedish adventure: 

• Set a Realistic Budget: Before you start planning your trip, determine how much you're willing to spend overall. This will serve as your guiding light as you make decisions about accommodations, activities, and dining.
• Set Daily Spending Limits: Once you're on the ground, set daily spending limits for various categories such as food, activities, and souvenirs. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
• Avoid Currency Exchange Fees: When using credit cards abroad, make sure to choose cards that don't charge foreign transaction fees. This will prevent unnecessary costs from eating into your budget.
• Monitor Your Expenses: Keep track of your spending throughout your trip to ensure you're staying within your budget. There are various mobile apps that can help you easily track expenses and manage your funds.  

Those expenses can be: 

Seasonal Variations: Flight prices peak during summer (June to August) and winter holidays. The cheapest months to fly are typically during the shoulder seasons: late April to early June and September to October.

• Average Prices: A round trip from New York to Stockholm can range from $300 to $800 depending on when you book.
• Booking Tips: Use flight comparison sites like Skyscanner or Kayak. Booking at least three months in advance often fetches the best deals.

Accommodation

• Hostels: A budget option, with prices ranging from $20 to $50 per night.
• Hotels: A mid-range hotel might cost between $80 to $200 per night.
• Unique Stays: Consider Campervan Sweden for a unique experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
• Dining Out: An average meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost between $20 to $40.
• Groceries: Shopping at local supermarkets like ICA supermarket or Coop and cooking can significantly reduce food expenses.
• Public Transport: Cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg have efficient public transport systems. A 24-hour pass in Stockholm costs around $13.
• Trains: The Swedish Rail (SJ) offers discounts for early bookings. A ticket from Stockholm to Gothenburg might range from $20 to $50. 

Trip Cost FAQ 

How much does it cost to travel to sweden .

The cost of traveling to Sweden depends on a number of factors, including the time of year you travel, the length of your stay, and your budget. However, in general, you can expect to spend around \$1,500 per week for a budget trip to Sweden. This includes the cost of flights, accommodation, food, and transportation. 

What are the most expensive cities in Sweden? 

The most expensive cities in Sweden are Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. These cities are all major economic centers and have a high cost of living. 

What are the cheapest cities in Sweden? 

The cheapest cities in Sweden are Örebro, Linköping, and Umeå. These cities are smaller and have a lower cost of living. 

How to Save Money on a Trip to Sweden 

If vacationing in Sweden, know that it can be enjoyed even on a tight budget with some smart choices. 

Cook at your Airbnb or apartment: 

Discovering the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Sweden doesn't have to break the bank. One ingenious way to make your trip both economical and unforgettable is by embracing the concept of cooking in your own accommodation. 

Imagine waking up in the heart of Stockholm or the serene countryside, knowing that the key to authentic Swedish traditional food and flavors lies right at your fingertips. By choosing accommodations with kitchen facilities, you unlock the door to a world of a more affordable culinary exploration. Not only does this approach let you save on dining expenses, but it also provides a chance to immerse yourself in the local food scene like a true Swede.

Local Markets: Explore local markets for fresh produce. Not only is it cheaper, but it also offers an authentic Swedish experience. 

Use Public Transportation: 

One of the smartest and most budget-friendly ways to get around is by utilizing Sweden's efficient and well-connected public transportation system. 

From the bustling heart of the city to the tranquil charm of small towns and villages, buses, trams, and trains seamlessly connect Sweden's most iconic cities and destinations. And the best part? You're not just saving money – you're also reducing your carbon footprint, contributing to a sustainable way of exploring this breathtaking country!

• Travel Cards: Consider getting a multi-day travel card if you're staying for an extended period.
• Biking: Many Swedish cities are bike-friendly. Renting a bike can be both economical and a great way to explore. 

 Visit Free Attractions: 

When it comes to exploring Sweden on a budget, there's a delightful secret that savvy travelers have long embraced – the abundance of free attractions waiting to be discovered. From charming cities to captivating natural wonders, Sweden offers a wealth of experiences that won't cost you a krona! 

The free delights of Sweden extend far beyond its cities. Venture into the breathtaking landscapes that define this country's allure. Hike through lush forests, wander along the most iconic lakes in Sweden, and marvel at the pristine beauty of Sweden's vast countryside.

• Museums: Institutions like the Moderna Museet in Stockholm offer free entry.
• Nature: Sweden's natural beauty, from its forests to the many, many islands worth visiting, is free to explore.

Take Advantage of Discounts: 

Dreaming of a Swedish adventure but worried about the cost? Fear not – there's a trove of discounts and deals waiting to transform your trip into an affordable and memorable experience. From transportation to attractions, dining to entertainment, Sweden offers numerous ways to stretch your krona further. 

One of the first steps to saving money is to explore various discount cards available for travelers. The Stockholm Pass, for instance, provides free entry to more than 60 attractions and museums, along with unlimited rides on public transportation. This card is a gateway to exploring the heart of Sweden's capital while keeping your wallet happy.

• City Cards: Cards like the Stockholm Pass offer entry to multiple attractions for a single price.
• Student and Youth Discounts: Always carry valid ID to avail discounts at various attractions. 

Make the most of your krona! 

Sweden offers a blend of modernity and tradition, making it a must-visit for travelers. While it might seem pricey, with the right planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all it has to offer without breaking the bank. 

And for those looking to traverse the vast Swedish landscapes, consider renting a camper from Campervan Sweden for an unforgettable road trip experience.

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Sweden Travel Guide – Top Tips for Your Trip to Sweden

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

These questions will be answered further below on this page…

Is it worth going to Sweden?

Why travel to sweden.

• Where to go?
• When to go?

How many days do you need in Sweden?

• What to do?

Things NOT to do when you travel to Sweden

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

Tips for your trip to Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to go – best destinations in Sweden

Top destinations to visit in sweden.

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

When to visit Sweden?

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

When to visit Sweden? What is the best month?

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

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

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

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

Practical travel advice

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

Buying alcohol and drinking age

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

Currency in Sweden – Do I need cash in Sweden?

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

Tipping in Sweden – How much?

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

What should I take to Sweden?

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

Power plugs, outlets, sockets and electricity in Sweden

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

Need an adapter? Here is one on Amazon .

What food to try when you’re in Sweden

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

More about traditional Swedish food, here

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

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

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

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

Sweden on a budget

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

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

How to go to Sweden

Travel to sweden by plane.

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

Travel to Sweden by car

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

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

If you want to avoid ferries and only go by car

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

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

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

Best Hotels in Sweden

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

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

Sweden for families

Best amusement parks for kids.

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

List with all amusement parks in Sweden, here .

Other Sweden travel guides online

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

• Nomadic Matt
• Lonely Planet
• Visit Sweden

Sweden Travel Guide Book, recommendation

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

Safety tips

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

Emergency number to call: 112

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

Enjoy your trip! :)

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Sweden Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sweden?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 to 7-Day Sweden Itinerary

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

Day 1 – Stockholm

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Sigtuna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Orebro 

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Orebro

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

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

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

Day 4 – Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Southern Gothenburg Archipelago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Malmo

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Malmo

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

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

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

Day 7 – Lund

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

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

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

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

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

Have More Time?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

The Perfect Uppsala Day Trip from Stockholm

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

The Perfect Malmo Day Trip from Copenhagen

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Love your passion for travel and detailed itineraries.

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

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

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

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

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

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Planning your trip

Expert advice on planning a trip to sweden.

Need advice on travel insurance for a trip to Sweden? Planning to learn Swedish? Or maybe you’re just wondering how expensive the beer is in Stockholm. This is the part of the Routes North website where we get you up to speed on how things work, so your trip to Sweden goes without a hitch. If you’re wondering about something that’s not covered here, head over to our Sweden forum and post a question there, or read our Sweden FAQs .

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• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Stockholm Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Stockholm?

How much does a weekend trip to stockholm cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Stockholm cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Stockholm cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Stockholm

Visitors to Stockholm usually spend between $70 and $404 per day on average for one person and $140 to $808 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $172 (kr1,821) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers. Your individual travel expenses may vary based on travel style and the locations visited, but if you plan wisely while visiting the most popular destinations, then you'll likely spend somewhere around this average cost during your trip. Further down we have a breakdown of expenses by category, as well as accommodation and activity prices.

If you're considering an independent trip to Stockholm, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $70 (kr742) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $172 (kr1,821) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $404 (kr4,271), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Stockholm from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Stockholm .

Travelers spend, on average, $517 per person on a three-day trip to Stockholm. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Stockholm cost?

With five days in Stockholm, you can expect to spend about $861 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Stockholm cost?

Most visitors spend between $492 and $2,829 for a one week trip to Stockholm, with the average being $1,206 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Stockholm. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Stockholm

With more than 20 hostels in Stockholm, the average price is $22 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $9 and the most expensive is $49. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Stockholm here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Stockholm.

• $9 for a dorm bed at City Backpackers Hostel in Stockholm more details
• $26 for a dorm bed at Castanea Old Town Hostel in Stockholm more details
• $20 for a dorm bed at Generator Stockholm in Stockholm more details

Hotel Prices in Stockholm

The average price for a hotel room in Stockholm is $78 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Stockholm here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

Hotel Rival

Victory hotel stockholm.

Should you do a tour in Stockholm?

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Stockholm and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $22 for the Walking Tour of Stockholm Old Town to $334 for the Join-in Shore Excursion to Stockholm with visit Vasa Museum from Nynashamn port .

• Winter kayaking and fika tour - islands of Stockholm Archipelago Viator $ 134
• Winter kayaking and fika tour - islands of Stockholm Archipelago: $134
• Stockholm RIB Speed Boat Tour: $130
• Old Town Stockholm Gamla Stan, Historic Walking Tour, small group: $48
• Stockholm City Evening Kayak Tour: $137
• Guided Kayak Tour in Central Stockholm: $57
• RIB Speed Boat - 2 Hour Archipelago Tour: $149
• Self-Guided Kayak Adventure In Central Stockholm (Two-man kayak): $28
• City Hall, Old Town & Vasa Museum - all-in-1 guided experience: $34

More for Stockholm

If you're planning a trip to Stockholm, Sweden, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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• England v Sweden Supporters Guide

England v Sweden: Supporters Guide

England v Sweden

Friday 5 April

The Lionesses kick-off their EURO 2025 qualifying campaign with a home fixture at Wembley Stadium connected by EE against Sweden.

We want all fans travelling to the game to have the best experience possible. Below is some key information, which will ensure Wembley is a safe environment for all visitors on the day.

Stadium access

General admission to the stadium will be available from 18.00. Doors for hospitality will open one hour earlier at 17.00

Make sure you arrive at the stadium in good time to assist with security protocols.

Please refer to your ticket for your turnstile colour zone. The quickest route to your turnstile entry point is by following the signage for the colour zone. Please ensure you enter via the correct turnstile.

An additional ticket check operation will be in place at the bottom of Olympic steps - please have your tickets ready, as you may be asked to show our match day stewards.

Fans with tickets are advised to check they are seated in the appropriate area of the stadium. Any supporter who is identified in opposition areas will be ejected from the stadium for breaching the FA’s ground regulations and be subject to each club’s own sanctions process.

Travel Advice

Rail / London Underground

National rail services will be severely disrupted due to industrial strike action taking place on 5 April.

All regional timetables will be severely impacted. Supporters travelling to Wembley Stadium from the northwest of England are advised to seek alternative transport modes for matchday travel.

In addition, there will be a full closure of Wembley Stadium Station. Chiltern Railway services will still be in operation, however they will not stop at Wembley Stadium station. Spectators are encouraged to use Wembley Central and Wembley Park stations for matchday travel to the stadium.

All TfL services will be operating as normal with Wembley Central station (Bakerloo Line) and Wembley Park station (Jubilee & Metropolitan Line) providing regular services to the stadium.

Supporters are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance to avoid disappointment or delay. All those travelling by rail should plan to arrive at Wembley stations no later than one hour prior to kick-off, to allow sufficient time to walk to and enter the stadium.

Please check the National Rail and TfL Status Updates websites to look out for any service alteration details and for real-time journey updates.

Post-match, fans are asked to leave the ground promptly and avoid opting for the last train of the day. Please allow for longer journey times from Wembley Stadium due to crowd safety controls for safe station access.

Due to industrial rail strike action please consider using Coach Travel.

National Express is the official coach partner to Wembley Stadium. National Express drop off at the stadium from over 50 locations around the UK making it the easiest and most convenient way to travel to Wembley. To book a National Express service for the Bristol Street Motors Final visit the National Express website or call 08717 81 81 81.

Event day parking at Wembley Stadium is limited and must be booked in advance via the Wembley Official Parking website. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Any vehicles which do not pre-book will not be granted access to the stadium car parks. Customers are advised to park via the official car parks only.

Blue badge parking is available for ticketholders with accessibility needs and this can also be booked directly through the Wembley Official Parking website. For any further accessibility requirements, please review Wembley Stadium’s Access Information page, or visit the Guest support portal .

No-street-drinking zone

Brent Council have enforced a no-street-drinking zone on Olympic Way and the surrounding area for ALL events at Wembley Stadium.

This is part of the current Public Space Order Protection in place around the stadium on event days. More information on the order can be found here.

Fans drinking on Olympic Way and the surrounding streets ahead of the Bristol Street Motors Final will be asked to hand over their alcohol and enforcement action may be considered.

Supporters wanting alcohol before the game should head for the licensed bars or restaurants in the area or make their way to the dedicated fan zones outside the stadium.

The Fan Zone is an area located on the concourse of the stadium where supporters have the chance to join fellow fans to enjoy a drink, including alcohol, food and a DJ. It is the ideal place to soak up the pre-match party atmosphere

The fan zones will be open from 16.00 and stop serving alcohol one hour before kick-off at 19.00

Supporters will need to present a valid stadium ticket to enter the area which has a limited capacity. The stadium’s bag policy (see below) also applies to anyone visiting the fan zone.

Stadium Security

We encourage fans to arrive at the stadium 60-90 minutes before kick off to allow enough time to assist with the security protocols. Anyone attempting to tailgate or gain illicit access to the stadium will be apprehended and reported to the Police.

All events at Wembley Stadium have a strong Police presence, and search dogs with handlers will also be patrolling around the stadium to identify and apprehend anyone with illegal or prohibited items, including pyrotechnics and banned substances.

Offensive Chanting

Wembley Stadium has a zero-tolerance policy on any form of anti-social, offensive and discriminatory conduct, and a nyone found guilty of this behaviour will be ejected from the stadium and reported to the authorities. 

Offensive tragedy-related chanting, gesturing and displaying of abusive messages is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. People who are found to have committed offences face stadium bans and potential criminal prosecution.

Pyrotechnics

The use of pyrotechnics, flares and smoke devices inside or outside Wembley Stadium is illegal and prohibited. Anyone caught carrying or using pyrotechnical equipment inside the stadium will be immediately ejected from the stadium, banned from future events and dealt with by police. Those caught using pyrotechnic equipment anywhere outside of the stadium will be in breach of the PSPO order and face enforcement action. More information here.

Disabled supporters

Wembley Stadium is a welcoming and inclusive venue for all guests with access requirements. There are 310 places for wheelchair users, each with a personal assistant/companion seat. The stadium also provides a range of services for guests with specialist access requirements including a shuttle service from Wembley Park Station. More information can be found here.

Restricted bag policy

Wembley Stadium operates a restricted bag policy. Each person can only bring one small bag into the stadium, and it must not be bigger than A4 size:

Height – 297mm (11.7 inches) - Width – 210mm (8.27 inches) - Depth – 210mm (8.27 inches)

Please note, this means the overall bag size – bags that are half-full and folded over to reduce their size will not be accepted. Anyone carrying bags that do not meet the criteria above will not be allowed into the stadium. A full list of prohibited items can be found here .

Persistent standing

Persistent standing during a match at Wembley Stadium is strictly forbidden (unless with a ticket for the safe standing area) and may result in ejection from the ground. Persistent standing not only compromises crowd safety, but also affects the matchday experience of fellow spectators, especially children and elderly people.

Anti-social and discriminatory behaviour

Wembley Stadium operates a zero-tolerance policy on any form of anti-social and discriminatory behaviour. If you witness any anti-social or discriminatory behaviour on the day, text HELP to 66566 or contact your nearest steward.

Food and Drink

Wembley Stadium offers an extensive range of food and drink options inside the stadium – more information is available here .

New for 2024 - On level one the stadium has introduced a new frictionless Tap Bar, allowing guests to access refreshments quicker and more conveniently.

The bar deploys the latest technology to enable customers to simply tap their card on entry, pick up what they need and then walk out – without the need to queue or pay at a dedicated paypoint.

Stay up to date with all of the latest matchday information by following @wembleystadium on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram & WhatsApp.