Best places to visit in Sweden

Sweden is more than just IKEA, ABBA, and winter darkness. It’s a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and experiences that will challenge everything you thought you knew about travel. As someone who’s traversed this Nordic wonderland, I’m excited to share insider perspectives that go beyond the standard guidebook recommendations.

Must-Visit Cities

1. Stockholm: The Capital of Cool

Stockholm isn’t just a city; it’s an archipelago of 14 islands connected by bridges, each with its own personality. While most guides will tell you about the Royal Palace and Gamla Stan (the old town), I’ll let you in on a secret: explore Södermalm, the hipster district that feels like Brooklyn transported to Scandinavia.

Pro Tip: Visit during Midsummer (late June) when the entire city transforms into a celebration of light and community. The locals dance around maypoles, wear flower crowns, and stay up all night in a magical Nordic twilight that never truly gets dark.

2. Gothenburg: The Underrated Coastal Gem

Often overshadowed by Stockholm, Gothenburg offers a more relaxed, authentic Swedish experience. Its canal-laced city center, world-class seafood, and proximity to stunning archipelagos make it a must-visit.

Hidden Gem: The Haga district, with its preserved 19th-century wooden houses, feels like stepping into a time machine. Stop by for the most enormous cinnamon buns you’ll ever encounter – known locally as “hagabullar”.

4. Malmö: Where Sweden Meets the World

Located in the southernmost part of Sweden, Malmö represents modern Sweden’s multicultural spirit. The Turning Torso skyscraper – a twisted architectural marvel – symbolizes the city’s innovative soul.

Hidden Gems: Sweden’s Most Charming Small Towns

5. Ystad: A Cinematic Coastal Treasure

Tucked away in southern Sweden, Ystad might look familiar to fans of Scandinavian crime dramas – it’s the setting for the famous “Wallander” detective series. This picturesque town is a perfect blend of medieval architecture and coastal charm. Cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses transport you back in time, while the surrounding coastline offers breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.

Local Experience: Walk through the town’s narrow streets at sunset, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living postcard. The local cafes serve some of the best Swedish pastries I’ve ever tasted, and the maritime museum offers fascinating insights into the region’s seafaring history.

6. Sigtuna: Sweden’s Oldest Town

Founded in 980 AD, Sigtuna is like a living museum just an hour from Stockholm. This tiny town was Sweden’s first capital and remains incredibly well-preserved. Runic stones, medieval church ruins, and traditional wooden houses make it a historical treasure trove.

Hidden Gem: Take a walking tour of the old town, where you can see ancient runic stones standing exactly where they were placed over a thousand years ago. The peaceful atmosphere is dramatically different from the bustling modern cities.

7. Vadstena: A Monastic Marvel

Nestled on the shores of Lake Vättern, Vadstena is a small town with an outsized historical significance. Home to a stunning medieval monastery and a royal palace, it’s a haven for history buffs and those seeking a tranquil Swedish experience.

Insider Tip: Visit during the summer months when the town comes alive with cultural festivals, and the lake offers perfect opportunities for kayaking and relaxing.

8. Österlen: The Artistic Haven

This is not a single town, but a region in southern Sweden that’s home to several small, artistic communities. Think rolling landscapes, art galleries in old barns, and a lifestyle that celebrates creativity and nature.

Local Secret: The small villages of Simrishamn, Kivik, and Skillinge are absolute gems. Each has its own unique character – from fishing village charm to artistic retreats. The area is particularly magical during apple harvest season, with local markets and festivals celebrating the region’s famous apples.

9. Borgholm: An Island Town with Royal History

Located on Öland island, Borgholm is a small town with a dramatic castle ruin and a laid-back island atmosphere. The town offers a perfect mix of historical intrigue and natural beauty.

Travel Experience: Rent a bike and explore the town and its surroundings. The contrast between the imposing castle ruins and the charming small houses creates a uniquely Swedish landscape.

Natural Wonders: Sweden’s Outdoor Playground

Swedish Lapland: Beyond the Aurora

While many come for the Northern Lights, Swedish Lapland offers year-round magic. In winter, experience the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi – literally a hotel rebuilt each year entirely from ice. In summer, the midnight sun creates 24-hour daylight perfect for hiking and exploring.

Seasonal Insight: Summer offers incredible hiking in Abisko National Park, while winter is perfect for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and aurora hunting.

The High Coast (Höga Kusten): A UNESCO Wonder

Often missed by tourists, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of Sweden’s most dramatic landscapes. Massive land uplift has created unique geological formations, with hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.

Local Secret: Rent a cabin here during autumn to witness the most incredible fall colors and enjoy complete solitude.

Visby: Medieval Magic on Gotland Island

This medieval city on Gotland Island looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Completely preserved medieval walls surround a city that hosts an incredible medieval week festival every August.

Travel Hack: If you’re a history buff, visit during the Medieval Week (early August) when the entire town transforms into a living historical reenactment.

Practical Travel Tips

Driving and Transportation in Sweden

International drivers can use their home country’s license for up to one year in Sweden, making it easy to explore the country on your own terms. If your license is in English or from an EU/EEA country, you typically don’t need an IDP. The International Driving Permit is useful for those who may need a translation of their license, or for travelers coming from countries whose licenses aren’t directly accepted by Swedish authorities. It’s always a good idea to double-check if your home country’s license is eligible before you go, to avoid any hassle. Renting a car is especially recommended for visiting rural areas, where public transport options may be limited. However, keep in mind the following driving considerations:

• Strict Speed Limits: Sweden enforces speed limits rigorously, and fines can be hefty for exceeding them. Always pay attention to road signs.
• Daytime Headlights: It’s mandatory to use headlights at all times, even during the day, so make sure your lights are on whenever you’re driving.
• Winter Driving: If visiting during the colder months, be prepared for winter driving conditions. Snow and ice can make roads slippery, so ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires, and always drive cautiously.

Budget Considerations

Sweden can be expensive, but budget-friendly options exist:

• Stay in hostels or camping grounds. n addition to the usual hostels, Sweden offers a range of affordable camping grounds, especially in scenic areas like national parks, where you can enjoy nature for a fraction of the cost of hotels. Many places even offer eco-friendly options.
• Use public transportation in cities. Sweden has an efficient and reliable public transportation system. Trains, buses, and trams are easy to use, and you can often save by purchasing travel cards or passes for multiple rides. For intercity travel, look for discounted tickets on specific days.
• Take advantage of free museum days. Many museums in Sweden offer free admission on specific days or evenings. Check the schedules of popular museums like the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm or the Moderna Museet.
• Shop at local markets instead of restaurants. Shopping at Swedish markets, such as the famous Östermalms Saluhall in Stockholm, can offer delicious and budget-friendly options. You can prepare your own meals with fresh, local ingredients or grab a quick, affordable bite from street vendors.

When to Visit

• Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season, long days, mild temperatures
• Winter (December-February): Perfect for winter sports and Northern Lights
• Shoulder seasons (May and September): Fewer crowds, lower prices, beautiful landscapes

Budget Traveler’s Sweden

For a mid-range traveler looking to explore Sweden, here’s an estimate of daily expenses:

• Hostels/Budget Hotels: Expect to pay between 500-1000 SEK (approximately 45-90 USD) per night for a bed in a hostel or a budget hotel. Prices vary based on location and season, with the highest rates in Stockholm or during peak travel months.
• Meals: Dining out will generally cost 100-250 SEK (around 9-23 USD) per person for a decent meal, whether at a local café, fast food place, or casual restaurant. Buying ingredients from local markets and cooking can help cut costs significantly.
• Local Transportation: Public transport is well-developed and affordable. A daily transport pass in cities will generally cost between 300-600 SEK (around 27-55 USD), depending on the city and type of transport used. Stockholm’s travel card is a convenient option for tourists.
• Museum/Attraction Entries: Entrance fees to museums and attractions typically range from 100-200 SEK (around 9-18 USD) per site, though many museums offer free entry on certain days of the week.

Final Thoughts

Sweden isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that will challenge your perceptions of travel, nature, and urban living.