top tourist attractions in sweden

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The 21 best things to do in Sweden

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

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Sweden

1.  drink swedish whisky on an island.

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

2.  Eat seafood in Smögen

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

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

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

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

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

5.  Follow in the footsteps of a king

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

6.  Indulge yourself at a historic spa

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

7.  Visit a Sami village in Lapland

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

8.  Bathe in a vault under Stockholm

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

9.  Ski through old military mountain tunnels

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

10.  Sauna in a golden egg in the Arctic

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

11.  Sleep in an ice hotel

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

12.  Sleep in the trees by the Arctic Circle

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

13.  Celebrate midsummer in style at Leksand

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

14.  Explore Sweden’s most beautiful archipelago by boat

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

15.  Cruise across Sweden

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

16.  Drive the famous High Coast and eat fermented herring

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

17.  Sleep under a lake

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

18.  Enjoy the view from a twisting tower

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

19.  Experience the Viking life

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

20.  Sing with ABBA at their museum

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

21.  Watch a sunset from The Bridge

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

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Must-see attractions in Sweden

Kungliga Slottet

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Drottningholm Slott

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Carl Larsson-gården

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Ájtte Museum

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Gotlands Museum

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Krapperups Slott

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Museum Gustavianum

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Bergmancenter

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Trelleborgen

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Kungsholms Fort

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Trefaldighetskyrkan

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10 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

By Carl Austin · Last updated on March 7, 2024

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

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

10. Kosterhavet National Park

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

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

9. Marstrand

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Stockholm archipelago

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

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

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

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

4. Swedish Lapland

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

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

3. Gothenburg

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

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

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

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

1. Stockholm

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Stockholm

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

Map of Places to Visit in Sweden

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Reader interactions.

February 16, 2020 at 4:27 am

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

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Best things to do in Sweden

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 06.02.2023

The mere mention of Sweden conjures up resonant images: snow-capped peaks, reindeer wandering in deep green forests and the 24-hour daylight of the midnight sun. . But beyond the household names of ABBA, IKEA and Volvo, Sweden is relatively unknown. Our list of the best things to do in Sweden will help you get to know this stunning destination better.

1. Dog sledding

2. river-rafting in värmland, 3. lund domkyrkan, 4. go wild swimming, 5. see the midnight sun, 6. visit the lively gotland beaches, 7. birka for viking history, 8. eat a smörgåsbord, 9. visit sámi, swedish lapland.

• 10. Visit Gothenburg's many museums

11. Spend the night in an Ice Hotel

12. vist unesco world heritage site, gammelstad, luleå, 13. see the medieval ruins of visby, 14. gamla stan, stockholm — one of the best things to do in sweden, 15. see the beauty of the stockholm archipelago, 16. take a ride on the inlandsbanan, 17. see the incredible vasa museum in stockholm, 18. crossing the arctic circle - one of the most unforgettable things to do in sweden, 19. try herring — one of the best things to do in sweden, 20. try sailing at the bohuslän coast, 21. explore the history of kalmar slott, 22. the 400 year old jokkmokk winter market.

• 23. Europe's last wilderness in Kungsleden

24. Orsa Rovdjurspark for bear encounters

25. a sauna and a splash, 26. see the northern lights in person, 27. abisko national park for mountain top views.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Sweden , your essential guide for visiting Sweden .

Dog sledding is one of the most magical things to do in Sweden in winter. Dog sledding, also known as mushing, is a popular activity in Sweden, particularly in the northern regions such as Lapland.

During the winter months, visitors can take part in guided tours of the snowy wilderness on a sled pulled by a team of Alaskan Huskies or other breeds of sled dogs. These tours can vary in length and difficulty, and some may include overnight stays in remote cabins or other forms of wilderness camping.

Dog sledge ride in Sweden @ Shutterstock

Build your own raft and glide down the graceful Klarälven River, taking in some of Sweden’s scenery. Inland from the Bohuslän coast, the landscape is dominated by the largest lake in Western Europe, Vänern. Sitting proudly on the lake’s northern shores, the provincial capital of Värmland, Karlstad, makes an agreeable destination after seeing the highlights of the Swedish west coast.

Both Route 45 and the rail network lead here from Gothenburg. The city provides ready access to an extensive area of sweeping forests and fertile farmland, crossed by lazy rivers. These were once used to float timber into Vänern these are now an excellent way of seeing this most peaceful part of western Sweden.

A bridge through Klaralven river, Ransby, Sweden © jstuij/Shutterstock

This twelfth-century cathedral is the finest Romanesque building in northern Europe. Lund’s reputation as a glorious old university city is well-founded. An ocean of bikes is the first image to greet you at the train station, and like Oxford in England – with which Lund is usually aptly compared.

The obvious place to begin your exploration is the magnificent Domkyrkan, Lund’s crowning glory. One of the world’s finest masterpieces of Romanesque architecture, the cathedral is built of storm-cloud charcoal and white stone, giving it an imposing monochrome appearance.

Where to stay in Lund:

• Best for modern stays: The More Hotel Lund
• Best for location: Magles Smiley Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay in Lund

Lund Cathedral, Sweden © Tommy Alven/Shutterstock

Amongst Sweden’s 100,000 lakes, you’re bound to find one you can call your own. In the countryside, people often take a dip in a nearby lake. Many of these beautiful lakes offer clean and clear waters that are perfect for swimming. With Sweden holding the title of one of the lowest population densities in Europe, you needn’t worry about stripping off for a spot of skinny-dipping.

Swimming in the wild lakes - one of the best things to do in Sweden © Erkki Alvenmod/Shutterstock

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From late May to mid-July the sun never sets in northern Sweden. Thanks to the refraction of sunlight in the atmosphere, the midnight sun can be seen south of the Arctic Circle. Arvidsjaur marks the southernmost point in Sweden where this happens for a few days each year.

The further north you travel, the longer the period when the phenomenon is visible, and conversely the longer the polar winter. True midnight sun occurs when the entire sun is above the horizon at midnight.

Midnight sun in Lapland, Sweden © Pavel Shyshkouski/Shutterstock

Stretches of white sandy beaches and clear, warm waters are perfect places to relax and play in the summer sun. Wherever you are in Sweden Gotland island 90km from the mainland will elicit a typical Swedish sigh, followed by an anecdote about what a great place it is. You’ll hear that the short summer season is an exciting time to visit; that the place is hot, fun and lively.

These claims are largely true. The island has a distinctly youthful feel, with young, mobile Stockholmers deserting the capital in summer for a boisterous time on its beaches.

Find accommodation options to stay at Gotland

Beach in Gotland, Sweden © Pierre Jonsson/Shutterstock

Get to grips with Sweden’s stirring Viking past on this Stockholm island. The island of Björkö (the name means “island of birches”), in Lake Mälaren, is the site of Sweden’s oldest town, Birka, which was founded around 750AD and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For over two centuries, Birka was the most important Viking trading centre in the northern countries, benefiting from its strategic location near the mouth of Lake Mälaren on the portage route to Russia and the Byzantine Empire.

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Today, a visit here is not only an opportunity to get to grips with Sweden’s Viking heritage, thanks to the site’s excellent museum, but the boat trip to the island also gives you a chance to explore the tranquil waters of Lake Mälaren.

Wooden sailing boats, Birka, Sweden @ Shutterstock

Eat until you drop: the smörgåsbord is a perfect way to sample Sweden’s excellent cuisine. While you’re in Sweden you should sample a smörgåsbord – an array of small dishes, both warm and cold. It’s available in larger restaurants and in hotels for around 400–500kr – expensive, but good for a blowout.

If you’re a traditionalist you should start with akvavit, drink beer throughout and finish with coffee. Coffee will be included in the price, but alcohol won’t. If you are interested in Swedish cuisine find more information in our guide to Swedish smorgasbord .

Smorgasbord, Sweden @ Shutterstock

Sights such as Jokkmokk market and Fatmomakke village in Lapland are monuments to the thriving culture of Sweden’s indigenous population. Seventy kilometres west of Arvidsjaur, in the village of GASA, the Båtsuoj Sámi Center is a good place to get to grips with the everyday life of the Sámi. Here, you’ll not only come face to face with reindeer (båtsuoj in Sámi) but also meet real reindeer herders.

A half-day-trip here includes dinner of reindeer cooked over an open fire, and the opportunity to learn a bit about the Sámi way of life. The Sámi will teach you about their religion, show the way to milk a reindeer and demonstrate the tricks of baking their traditional bread. Frozen reindeer meat is also available for purchase. You can stay overnight for an extra 410kr per person in a wooden kåta, sleeping on a reindeer skin.

Find accommodation options to stay in Swedish Lapland

A pair of traditional reindeer skin boots at Sami Market. Jokkmokk, Sweden @ Kuznetsova Julia/Shutterstock

10. Visit Gothenburg's many museums

Poseidon stands guard outside Gothenburg’s art museum – home to some of Sweden’s finest paintings from the turn of the last century. Gothenburg is famous for its museums , here are just a few of them:

• Gothenburg Museum of Art has a collection of over 17,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings by Swedish and international artists;
• Gothenburg Natural History Museum features exhibits on the natural history and geology of western Sweden and other parts of the world;
• Gothenburg Maritime Museum focuses on the city's maritime history, including shipbuilding and seafaring.

Discover Gothenburg from both land and water aboard an amphibious bus . See the city’s most known attractions while your guide tells you fascinating stories. Feel the thrill as the bus transforms into a boat and splashes into the water.

Where to stay in Gothenburg:

• Best for boutique stays: Hotel Riverton
• Best for historical atmosphere: Hotel Royal

Find more accommodation options to stay in Gothenburg

Poseidon statue, Gotaplatsen, Goteborg, Sweden © trabantos/Shutterstock

One of the most unusual structures in Europe, the Icehotel is a masterpiece of snow and ice sculpture. The brains behind Icehotel belong to Yngve Bergqvist, a southern Swede who moved to Lapland in the 1980s. In 1989, he built an igloo as an art gallery to showcase local Sámi crafts and design. Visitors asked to sleep in the igloo, and the concept was born.

Today, covering roughly 6000 square metres, Icehotel is constructed of thirty thousand tonnes of “snice”, as Icehotel calls it, a combination of snow and ice. From the entrance hall there’s usually one main walkway filled with ice sculptures, from which smaller corridors lead off to the bedrooms and suites that make up the bulk of the hotel. Though many visitors stay the night, the hotel is also open for day visits.

Staying in Icehotel is one of the most authentic things to do in Sweden © kakoki/Shutterstock

The original settlement of Luleå, Gammelstad, lies 11km northwest of the present city. It’s one of the most significant places of historical interest north of Uppsala, and is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. When Luleå was moved to the coast in 1649, a handful of the more religious among the townsfolk stayed behind to tend the church, and the attached church town – the largest in Sweden – remained in use.

It comprises over four hundred timber cottages, which can only be occupied by people born in Gammelstad; even people from Luleå must marry a local to gain the right to live here.

Gammelstad, Sweden © Dimitrios Karamitros/Shutterstock

Exploring the cobbled lanes and medieval church ruins of this Hanseatic-walled city is one of the most exciting things to do in Sweden. Visby is a city made for wandering and lingering over coffees and slices of cake. Whether climbing the ramparts of the surrounding walls, or meandering up and down the warren of cobbled, sloping streets, there’s plenty to tease the eye.

Strolling around the twisting streets and atmospheric walls is not something that palls quickly, but if you need a focus, aim for Norra Murgatan, above the cathedral, once one of Visby’s quietest areas. The end of the street nearest Norderport enjoys the best view of the walls and city rooftops.

Where to stay in Visby:

• Best for location: Visby Innerstad Lägenheter & Rum
• Best for stunning views: NOVI Resort

Find more accommodation options to stay in Visby

Visby, Sweden © Niar/Shutterstock

Enjoy a fika (coffee and cake) in one of the open-air cafés in Stockholm’s atmospheric Old Town. Once Stockholm’s working centre, nowadays Gamla Stan is primarily a tourist hub. This is a fantastic place to take a stroll. In particular around the Kungliga Slottet, Riksdagshuset and Storkyrkan.

The central spider’s web of streets – best approached over the bridges of Norrbron or Riksbron – is a sprawl of monumental buildings and high airy churches which form a protective girdle around the narrow lanes. Some of the impossibly slender alleys lead to steep steps ascending between battered walls, others are covered passageways linking leaning buildings.

Experience early life in Stockholm on this exciting walking tour of the historic Old Town . Listen to colourful stories and legends as you pass historic landmarks and regal palaces. Choose a private tour to have your own guide and go at your own pace.

Where to stay in Stockholm:

• Best for island location: Hotel Skeppsholmen
• Best for unique experience: Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel

Find more accommodation options to stay in Stockholm

Gamla Stan, Stockholm © Adisa/Shutterstock

No list of things to do in Sweden is complete without a trip to one of the 24,000 islands that make up the archipelago. If you arrived in Stockholm by plane, you’ll already have had a tantalizing glimpse of the Stockholm archipelago.

In Swedish the word for archipelago is skärgård – literally “garden of skerries” and a pretty accurate description. The array of hundreds upon hundreds of pine-clad islands and islets is the only one of its kind in the world. Most of the little-known islands are flat and are wonderful places for walking or cycling (ferries to the islands accept bikes onboard).

Climb aboard a classic archipelago ship and sail on the waterways of Stockholm on a sightseeing cruise . Experience the untouched nature of the city's archipelago and hear about the sights from a guide.

Rocky archipelago, Stockholm © Mikael Broms/Shutterstock

A trip on the Inlandsbanan through northern Sweden is one of Europe’s great train journeys. The privately operated Inlandsbanan, the Inland Railway, is a great way of travelling off the beaten track through central and northern Sweden. It stretches over 1000km from Mora to Gällivare, north of the Arctic Circle,

Onboard guides provide commentaries and information about places along the route to ensure you get the most out of the journey.

If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience in Sweden, check out our guide to the disused railway line in Sweden . It’s been a popular summer activity among Swedes for years, and now foreign visitors are catching on.

Old rail bus © Kent Dahlberg/Shutterstock

After lying in mud for centuries at the bottom of Stockholm harbour, the mighty Vasa has been restored to her former glory. Housed in an oddly shaped building close to the Nordiska Muséet, the Vasamuséet is without question head and shoulders above Stockholm’s other museums. It contains the perfectly preserved seventeenth-century warship, the Vasa, which was built on the orders of King Gustav II Adolf.

A victim of engineering miscalculation, the Vasa’s hull was too narrow to withstand even the slightest swell which, when coupled with top-heavy rigging, made her a maritime disaster waiting to happen. She went down with all hands barely a few hundred metres from her moorings. Preserved in mud for over three hundred years, the ship was raised along and now forms the centrepiece of the museum.

People in front Vasa, Viking ship @ Martpod/Shutterstock

Don’t leave Sweden without crossing the magical Arctic Circle, 66° 33’ north. Just 7km south of Jokkmokk, the Inlandsbanan finally crosses the imaginary line drawn around the earth which links the northernmost points along which the sun can be seen on the shortest day of the year.

Crossing into the Arctic is occasion enough for a bout of whistle-blowing by the train, as it pulls up to allow everyone to take photos. However, the painted white rocks that curve away over the hilly ground here, a crude delineation of the Circle, are completely inaccurate. Due to the Earth’s uneven orbit, the line is creeping northwards at a rate of 14–15m every year; the real Arctic Circle is now around 1km further north than this line.

Arctic Circle road sign, Jokkmokk, Lapland © Natasa Kirin/Shutterstock

The quintessential Swedish dish, best enjoyed with a cold beer or a shot of akvavit. Herring is a traditional and important fish in Sweden, and it is a common ingredient in many traditional Swedish dishes. It is commonly prepared in a variety of ways, including pickled, smoked, and fried. It is often served as a part of a traditional smörgåsbord.

Pickled herring with new potatoes, chives, red onion and sourcream on a porcelain plate @ JAri J/Shutterstock

Sweden’s most enchanting stretch of coastline with smooth rocky outcrops perfect for sunbathing. A chain of islands linked by a thread of bridges and short ferry crossings make up the enchanting region of Bohuslän where, despite the summer crowds, it’s still easy enough to find a private spot to swim.

Sailing is also a popular pastime among the many Swedes who have summer cottages here, and all the way along the coast you’ll see yachts gliding through the water.

Find accommodation options to stay at Bohuslän Coast

Bohuslan coast, Sweden © Wilmurhtina/Shutterstock

Take a tour around one of Sweden’s finest castles, and marvel at its medieval magnificence. Beautifully set on its own island, just south of Stadsparken, is the castle, Kalmar Slott. Unlike many other southern Swedish castles, this one is straight out of a storybook, boasting turrets, ramparts, a moat and drawbridge and a dungeon.

The fully furnished interior – reached by crossing an authentically reconstructed wooden drawbridge and going through a stone-arched tunnel beyond the grassy ramparts – is great fun for a wander.

Kalmar Slott © Steve Allen/Shutterstock

The Jokkmokk winter market sells everything from bearskins to candlesticks. Known simply in Swedish as Jokkmokks marknad, the town’s 400-year-old Great Winter Market traces its origins back to 1602. It began when King Karl IX decreed that a series of market sites should be set up in the north to help extend Swedish territory and increase taxes to fund his many wars.

Today the market is held on the first Thursday to Sunday of each February when thirty thousand people force their way into town – ten times the normal population. Held on the frozen Talvatissjön lake the market’s reindeer races can be a real spectacle, as man and beast battle it out on a specially marked-out ice track.

Reindeer boots at Jokkmokks marknad © Kuznetsova Julia/Shutterstock

23. Europe's last wilderness in Kungsleden

Exploring the wild, rugged and remote far north on the Kungsleden hiking trail is one of the best things to do in Sweden for hikers. The Kungsleden (translated “King’s Trail”) is the most famous and popular hiking route in Sweden. A well-signposted, 500km-long path from Abisko in the north to Hemavan, near Tärnaby it takes in Sweden’s highest mountain, Kebnekaise en route.

If you’re looking for splendid isolation, this isn’t the trail for you; it’s the busiest in the country, though it’s the section from Abisko to Kebnekaise that sees most hikers (one of the least busy sections is between Jäkkvik and Adolfström). Most people start the trail at Abisko, but it’s equally feasible to begin further south.

Kungsleden trail © Jens Ottoson/Shutterstock

Europe’s biggest bear park is the perfect place to see Sweden’s greatest predator in its natural habitat. The bears here aren’t tamed or caged, but wander around the 325 thousand square metres of the forested park at will, much as they would in the wild. It’s the human visitors who are confined, having to clamber up viewing platforms and along covered walkways.

The bears are fascinating to watch. They’re gentle and vegetarian for the most part (though occasionally they’re fed the odd dead reindeer or elk that’s been killed on the roads).

Brown bear in Orsa Rovdjurspark © Alexandr Junek Imaging/Shutterstock

The perfect end to a long day, a Swedish sauna traditionally finishes with a roll in the snow or a plunge into cold water. Most public swimming pools and hotels, even in the smallest towns, will have a sauna. They’re generally electric and extra steam is created by tossing water onto the hot elements. The temperature inside ranges from 70°C to 120°C.

Traditional wood-burning saunas are often found in the countryside and give off a wonderful smell. Public saunas are always single-sex and nude. You’ll often see signs forbidding the wearing of swimming costumes, as these would collect your sweat and allow it to soak into the wooden benches.

Wooden sauna in Sweden © Piotr Wawrzyniuk/Shutterstock

Also known by their Latin name, aurora borealis, the northern lights are visible all across northern Sweden during the dark months of winter. These spectacular displays of green-blue shimmering arcs and waves of light are caused by the solar wind. These are streams of particles charged by the sun, hitting the atmosphere.

Gällivare and Kiruna, both well inside the Arctic Circle, are arguably the best places in Sweden to catch a glimpse of the aurora. You'll want to catch them in the coldest winter months from December to February. Although displays can range from just a few minutes to several hours, the night sky must be clear of clouds to see the northern lights from Earth.

If experiencing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, also read our guide to the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

This tailor-made tour to Finland, Norway and Sweden is perfect for people who want to explore the Arctic. Begin your journey from the southern part of Finland via Sweden up to the northern part of Norway. Most importantly, you will be hunting for the Northern Lights in the best locations!

Sweden, Lapland, northern lights © Shutterstock

Abisko National Park is a national park located in northern Sweden, about 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of the Arctic Circle. The park covers an area of about 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) and is known for its stunning natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and lakes.

Abisko is also famous for the Aurora Sky Station, an attraction located on the summit of Mount Nuolja, where visitors can take a chairlift up to the mountain top to enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding area and the Northern lights if visible.

Explore Abisko National Park and see the northern lights on a photo tour . Spend an evening under the stars in Lapland and explore the wilderness on foot, in a van, or by sleigh.

Abisko National Park, Sweden © Shutterstock

Explore Sweden’s famous traditions with our guide to unforgettable midsummer celebrations in Sweden .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Sweden without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Sweden ? Check out the The Rough Guide to Sweden . If you travel further in Sweden, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Sweden. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Stockholm

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Andrew Birbeck Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Known as the "Venice of the North" for its many waterways and lakes, Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, lies on a number of islands and peninsulas at the outflow of Lake Mälar into the Baltic.

This vibrant, modern city offers an astounding number of historic attractions, from architectural splendors like the Royal Palace to entire neighborhoods like Gamla Stan , Stockholm's Old Town district. If you want even more history, you can visit world-class museums like the Skansen Open-Air Museum or the Stockholm Medieval Museum, and if you're here for Vikings, the Vasa Museum should be at the top of your list of things to do.

Stockholm is also home to excellent art galleries and other world-class museums, but if you want to spend more time outdoors, it offers both expansive parks and seemingly endless waterways and islands to explore. The UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace is just a ferry ride away, and the central location makes day trips from Stockholm easy.

To learn more about the many tourist attractions and places to visit in this attractive European city, be sure to read through our list of the best things to do in Stockholm.

Explore Old Town Stockholm: Gamla Stan

Relive sweden's seafaring past at the vasa museum, get your bearings aboard a stockholm boat tour, be a star at abba the museum, take a stroll and see the sights of djurgården, skansen open-air museum, tour the royal palace (sveriges kungahus), fotografiska: stockholm's photography museum, see historic stockholm city hall (stadshuset), the national museum of fine arts: nationalmuseum, moderna museet, roam the royal national city park, get lost in time at stockholm medieval museum (medeltidsmuseet), visit storkyrkan: the great church, shop 'til you drop in östermalm, take in the perfect "skyview", tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to stockholm, where to stay in stockholm for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in stockholm, more delightful swedish destinations and day trips.

Dating from the 1200s and crammed with must-see sights, attractions, cafés, authentic restaurants, and boutique shops, the area of Gamla Stan (Old Town ) is a living, breathing museum in its own right. It's often a first stop for tourists in Stockholm and is among the most popular places to visit in Sweden .

Plenty of souvenirs and gifts are available in the Old Town, and you will find yourself transported back to medieval times as you meander through a bewildering labyrinth of tiny, winding streets, many of which lead to (or from) Stortorget, the main public square.

If you want to be sure you see all the main points of interest while learning about each site's historic significance, take a guided walking tour of Stockholm Old Town . It lasts two-and-a-half hours and includes visits to highlights like the Royal Opera House, several churches, and more.

If visiting in winter, be sure to take in the marvelous Christmas Market , Julmarknad , an experience akin to finding yourself in a real-life fairy tale and among the best Christmas markets in Europe .

Stockholm Cathedral (Storkyrkan, or Stockholms domkyrka), the Nobel Prize Museum (Nobelmuseet), and the Royal Palace are all located here and should be high up on any Stockholm sightseeing itinerary.

The incredible Vasa battleship, the main attraction at Stockholm's brilliant Vasa Museum ( Vasamuseet ) , was intended to be the pride of the Swedish Imperial fleet. Yet, in a forerunner of the Titanic disaster centuries later, this majestic 64-gun vessel sank on its maiden voyage in 1628.

An amazing salvage operation took place in 1961, and now you can marvel at this glorious time capsule, 95 percent of which is entirely original. The three masts on the roof of the museum are not just a tourist draw; they were reconstructed to the exact height and specifications of the original masts.

This is the most visited museum in Sweden , and rightfully so. More than one million people a year come here to enjoy the different exhibitions and watch the movie on the ship's history. A variety of other historic vessels are also located on-site, including an icebreaker, a lightship, and a torpedo boat.

Entry is free if you are under 18 years of age, and the museum offers a free phone-based audio guide just for kids. The museum is open daily (except holidays), and also offers a quality on-site restaurant.

Address: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

The sea flows through the arteries of Stockholm, and during the summer months, the city is quite literally awash with boats of all shapes and sizes. Many city-dwellers own summer houses on the islands of the skärgården (archipelago) and spend, if not the entire summer there, then most weekends. It all makes for a Friday evening commute like no other.

Bearing all this in mind, experiencing Stockholm from the water is surely a must-do for any visitor. It's also a great way to get your bearings early on in your visit. Take a sightseeing cruise under the bridges of Stockholm or hop on one of the Stromma boat excursions like the Archipelago Tour.

There are also hop-on, hop-off options with a valid ticket lasting 24 hours. Best of all, cruises are available year-round and can be just as much fun in winter.

Few pop bands from the 1970s can still garner the kind of enthusiasm among fans that Sweden's ABBA does. To celebrate the continuing interest in Scandinavia's biggest music export, ABBA The Museum opened in 2013 and has attracted young and old alike with its unique interactive exhibits.

Using state-of-the-art technology, visitors can see computerized versions of themselves not only wearing the band's most iconic outfits, but can even dance and sing along with Agnetha, Björn, Benny, and Anni-Frid.

Other highlights include a visit to a reconstruction of their recording studio , where you can try your hand at remixing some of their best-loved tunes, as well as the unique experience of seeing Benny's original piano seemingly playing itself, but in reality, being controlled by the star from his home.

You can also enjoy a thrilling virtual helicopter ride and the Waterloo exhibit, which faithfully recreates the band's winning performance at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton, England.

English language audio and guided tours are available. The adjoining music-themed hotel, Pop House Hotel , is a fun place to stay, with a convenient location. It offers clean, bright, and affordable rooms, with a restaurant and gift shop located on-site.

Address: Djurgårdsvägen 68, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden

A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, the island of Djurgården draws crowds of tourists and locals alike. It's particularly busy during the summer months of long lazy days and short nights.

The park forms part of the Royal National City Park , which is the perfect place for a stroll and picnic, as well as being home to several of Stockholm's top museums and other attractions.

Scattered about are pleasant cafés, restaurants, snack bars, and hotels. You can rent bicycles to explore the forest trails or, if you're feeling adventurous, take to the waterways in a canoe. The popular Vasa Museum and ABBA the Museum are located here, as is the open-air museum Skansen and Gröna Lund amusement park.

A fun way to arrive is by ferry from Gamla Stan or Slussen , both of which are on the T-Bana. Alternatively, jump on a tram from Norrmalmstorg , take the bus, or stroll from the city center, a journey of only 15 minutes. Drop by the Djurgården visitor center for more information.

The oldest open-air museum in the world , Skansen opened in 1891 on the island of Djurgården. This is a wonderful attraction for families, particularly those with young children, although tourists of any age will enjoy the visit.

More than 150 different buildings and houses were collected from all around the country and reassembled here. On display are distinct town districts, including manor houses, a bakery, the beautiful Seglora timber church, and a pottery, all brought to life by costumed living history interpreters.

Not only will you be treated to an authentic taste of Sweden as it once was, but you'll also have fun at the wonderful Skansen Aquarium and the Children's Zoo . A wide variety of creatures can be seen at the zoo, including moose, bears, lynxes, wolves, and seals.

You can visit the aquarium for an extra fee and see more than 200 animals of all types from around the world, including not only fish but also furry friends like lemurs and many species of monkeys. For traditional Swedish Smörgåsbord pay a visit to the Solliden Restaurant.

Address: Djurgårdsslätten 49-51, 11521 Stockholm, Sweden

A visit here could be a day out in itself. Located by the water's edge on the periphery of Gamla Stan, Stockholm's Royal Palace (Sveriges Kungahus) is the official residence of the King of Sweden.

Interestingly, the Queen's residence lies elsewhere. It's on the beautiful island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Drottningholm (Queen's Island), about a 45-minute ferry ride from Stockholm and an easy day trip .

A rich taste of the once-mighty Swedish Empire, this palace is one of the largest in Europe boasting in excess of 600 rooms and several museums. Dating from the 18th century and built in Baroque style, the palace houses many gems. Here, you can see Queen Kristina's silver throne and visit the Museum of Antiquities , the Royal Armoury , the Tre Kronor (Three Crowns) Museum , and the Treasury .

You won't want to miss the daily changing of the guard. Known as the Royal Guards Ceremony , it starts at 12:15pm each day (1:15pm on Sundays) and takes place in the palace's outer courtyard.

Location: Slottsbacken 1, 111 30 Stockholm, Sweden

Fotografiska is Stockholm's museum of contemporary photography and hosts an eclectic mix of exhibitions throughout the year. The complex encompasses a café, restaurant, store, and gallery, and from the top floor, you can enjoy one of the most enviable views over the city.

The museum is now acknowledged as one of the world's premier photography venues, and there are always a variety of themed exhibits on display, each featuring several photographers.

The museum's restaurant is just as popular as its exhibits — serving organic, sustainably-produced cuisine, the restaurant on the top floor is acclaimed as one of the city's coolest eateries. Its weekend brunch is particularly popular with locals.

The gallery also hosts cutting-edge live and club music throughout the year.

Address: Stadsgårdshamnen 22, 11645 Stockholm, Sweden

Nestled at the water's edge and topped by three golden crowns, the City Hall (Stockholms stadshus, or Stadshuset) is one of Stockholm's most iconic buildings and stars in countless images and postcards of the city. Dating from 1923, the hall opened on that most Swedish of dates: Midsummer's Eve.

Housed within are assembly rooms, offices, works of art, and the machinery of civil democracy. The prestigious annual Nobel Banquets are held here. Recipients dine first in Blå hallen (The Blue Hall) and then move on to the formal ball in Gyllene salen (The Golden Hall), which has no less than 18 million mosaics adorning its walls.

A particular treat is the chance to view the city from the famous tower.

Address: Hantverkargatan 1, 111 52 Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm's impressive National Museum of Fine Arts , the Nationalmuseum, is a great place to get your art fix. Sweden's national gallery, it was established in 1792 as the Royal Museum and was renamed the Nationalmuseum after moving to its present location in 1866. It was fully renovated and modernized in 2018.

The architecture alone is worth seeing, particularly the interior with its massive central staircase and large galleries. Notable among its collections are over 500,000 drawings and sketches, numerous works by the Dutch Masters, including some by Rembrandt, as well as a sizable collection of sculptures. It also boasts the world's largest collection of portrait miniatures.

Guided tours are available, and a wide range of educational programs and workshops are provided. There's also a restaurant and gift shop on-site.

Address: Södra Blasieholmshamnen, Stockholm, Sweden

At Moderna Museet , you can dip your toes into one of Europe's foremost collections of art from the 20th century to today, featuring works by artists such as Picasso, Dali, Derkert, and Matisse. The museum exhibits everything from modern classics to contemporary art, including film, photography, drawings, prints, and whimsical outdoor sculptures.

Located on picturesque Skeppsholmen island, the building of Moderna Museet was designed by Rafael Moneo, a Spanish architect.

The museum offers a world-class program of temporary exhibitions, a children's workshop, a shop, a library, and a pleasant restaurant with beautiful views of Djurgården and Strandvägen . Guided tours are available.

The museum's second gallery lies in Malmö .

Address: Exercisplan 4, 111 49 Stockholm

The right-to-roam (allemansrätten) is an indelible part of the Swedish psyche. The Royal National City Park (Kungliga nationalstadsparken) is a six-mile-long, 27 square-kilometer green space surrounding and snaking into Stockholm and encompassing three royal parks: Djurgården, Haga, and Ulriksdal .

This, the world's first national urban park , is where tourists and locals flock to unwind. The forest harbors moose, foxes, deer, and many winged beauties, including rare birds. Fun things to do include enjoying the museums, castles, theaters, sports facilities, and historic homes.

Nature lovers will be in heaven exploring wilderness areas with centuries-old oak trees, streams, lakes, marshes, enticing swimming spots, and craggy hilltops. It truly is hard to believe you're in the middle of a thriving capital city.

Address: 115 21 Stockholm

Ever wondered what life was like in medieval Europe? Pay a visit to the Museum of Medieval Stockholm (Medeltidsmuseet), and you'll find out. Situated just a short distance from the Royal Palace, this fascinating attraction was built on an actual excavation site that unearthed and preserved a number of interesting finds from the medieval period.

The museum features a number of unique period structures, including part of the original city walls from the 1500s, old brick merchant's homes and workshops, as well as part of Stockholm's original port and its buildings. Interesting exhibits detail the city's history from around the 1200s through to the mid-16th century.

English language guided tours are available, and the museum also hosts walking tours with prior arrangements. If you want to bring home a bit of medieval Stockholm, be sure to visit their gift shop.

Address: Strömparterren 3, 111 30 Stockholm, Sweden

Located in the heart of Stockholm's Gamla Stan district, Storkyrkan is the city's oldest church . Also known as 'The Great Church," or Stockholms domkyrka, it was built in the 13th century and is a remarkably well-preserved example of medieval architecture.

Highlights of this simple yet impressive hall church include its brick pillar-supported vaulted ceiling, as well as the many Baroque flourishes that were added later in the 1700s. More recently, the church has been the scene of important national events, such as royal weddings and coronations.

Numerous artifacts and furnishings survive from medieval times and can be seen as part of a visit or tour.

Address: Trångsund 1, 111 29 Stockholm, Sweden

If it's Stockholm designer chic you're after, then look no further. Östermalm is the most exclusive district in the city. Here, international luxury labels rub shoulders with high-class Scandinavian design.

On Biblioteksgatan, there's an abundance of flagship shops and designer boutiques, while the neighborhood around Stureplan offers plenty of posh shops — some with sky-high price tags.

Lovers of art and interior design will enjoy Svenskt Tenn and Malmstenbutiken , which are located at the beginning of Strandvägen near Nybroviken.

Many of Sweden's top antique dealers lie around the Kommendörsgatan neighborhood, and be sure to drop by Östermalmshallen for the absolute best in Swedish fresh food and produce.

Situated on Stockholm's southern fringe, SkyView takes you to the top of the world's largest spherical building , the Ericsson Globe, which is one of Stockholm's modern landmarks. From 130 meters above sea level, you'll be treated to an unforgettable view over the entire city.

Tours aboard the gondolas take about 30 minutes and depart every 10 minutes, but be prepared for long lines at peak times of the day. After the trip, sightseers can visit the restaurant and souvenir shop.

Address: Globentorget 2, 121 77 Stockholm, Sweden

Sightseeing Tours :

• A convenient and flexible way to see the city's attractions is the City Sightseeing Stockholm Hop-On Hop-Off Tour . Accompanied by an audio commentary, this double-decker bus tour visits 14 different attractions, and you can hop on and off at any of the stops.
• If you're an active traveler who wants to explore the archipelago up close, the one-day Small-Group Stockholm Archipelago Kayak Tour is for you. This eight-hour kayak tour includes all equipment and instruction, so even those without experience can give it a try. The excursion also includes coffee, tea, snacks, and a lunch cooked over a campfire.

Stockholm by Night :

• For an edgier look at the city, consider The Original Stockholm Ghost Walk and Historical Tour , a two-hour tour of the city by lantern light, where you'll hear spooky stories about spirits, vampires, myths, and mysteries as you stroll Gamla Stan's medieval streets.
• If Sweden's Viking and medieval history excite you, the Viking History Half-Day Tour is a must-do. Along the way, you'll see runic stones at Täby; discover ancient inscriptions at Granby; and stroll the medieval streets of Sweden's oldest town, Sigtuna.

Getting Around:

• The excellent underground railway system, the Tunnelbana (T-bana), takes you almost anywhere in the city. A highly efficient and regular bus network fills in any gaps between destinations. Alternatively, take the time to walk instead, as Stockholm is a terrific city to absorb on foot. The city also has an efficient network of bicycle lanes.

Save Money :

• Although Stockholm, like most of Scandinavia, can be expensive, good value can be found if you know where to look. One way to save a few kronor is to eat a main meal during the day and opt for something lighter in the evening. The Dagens rätt or Dagens lunch (daily special) is a great way to experience authentic Swedish fare at a fraction of the cost you'd pay in the evenings.

Sweet Treats :

• Swedes love coffee and cake, and they've even come up with a verb for it: Fika. To "fika" is to drink coffee, eat something small (and usually sweet), and chat. Be sure to indulge, as the cakes and pastries are delicious.

Luxury Hotels:

• Presiding over the waterfront, opposite the Royal Palace and Old Town, the aptly-named Grand Hotel has hosted celebrities and Nobel Prize winners in its elegant suites and Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Those who prefer contemporary Scandinavian style will enjoy the Nobis Hotel on Norrmalmstorg, a public square in the heart of the city.
• Within walking distance of Gamla Stan and only two minutes from the train station, the Sheraton Stockholm Hotel is a reliable chain option in a fantastic location.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A five-minute walk from Gamla Stan, in the trendy Södermalm area, the Hilton Stockholm Slussen offers beautiful views of the city.
• The modern Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel , which shimmers in the heart of the city, is less than three kilometers from the Royal Palace and Old Town.
• Travelers seeking a more historic ambience should consider the Sven Vintappare Hotel in the heart of Gamla Stan, which is steeped in 17th-century charm.

Budget Hotels:

• Perhaps the most unique budget hotel options close to the historic sites are on the water — literally. The Rygerfjord Hotel and Hostel , Red Boat Hotel and Hostel , and Loginn Hotel are boat hotels with cozy cabin rooms within walking distance of the Old Town.
• For those who prefer a hotel on dry land, Best Western Hotel Fridhemsplan offers a variety of room configurations, including family rooms, a five-minute train ride from the city center.

Sweden is known for its vibrant cities and quaint towns. From Stockholm, you can venture into the picturesque countryside for fun day trips , including a visit to the university city of Uppsala . A mere 35-minute flight from the capital, the gorgeous island of Gotland is a popular place to visit on vacation. On the western side of the country, Gothenburg has a milder climate than Stockholm and more of a European feel, while to the south of Gothenburg, both Helsingborg and Malmo lie only a short hop from neighboring Denmark , across the Oresund strait.

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

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden)

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

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

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

1. Gamla Stan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book online : Skansen Open-Air Museum Admission Ticket

3. Vasa Museum

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

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

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

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

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

Get tickets : Vasa Museum Entrance Ticket

4. Modern Art Museum

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

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

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

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

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

5. The Medieval Museum

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

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

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

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

These mingle with recreated houses, taverns and workshops.

6. Junibacken

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

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

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

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

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

7. Swedish History Museum

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

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

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

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

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

8. Royal Palace

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

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

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

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

9. Fotografiska

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

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

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

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

Book online : Fotografiska Entrance Ticket

10. The City Hall

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended tour : Guided City Hall Tour

11. Strandvägen

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

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

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

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

Related tour : Stockholm Archipelago Cruise with Guide

12. Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. ABBA: The Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Gröna Lund

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

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

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

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

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

15. Monteliusvägen

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

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

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

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

16. Nordic Museum

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

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

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

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

17. Stortorget

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

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

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

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

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

Included in : Sightseeing Tour by Segway

18. Drottningholm Palace

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

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

Refinements were made over the next few hundred years when each successive monarch left his or her own mark on the palace.

There are opulent salons from the 1600s, 1700s and 1800s, but one of the remarkable details is the Palace Theatre, which dates to the 1700s and continues to stage performances to this day, unchanged.

The Chinese Pavilion, finished in 1769, is another marvel in an oriental-infused Rococo style and with interiors enriched with decorative works like porcelain and lacquered furniture gathered by the Swedish East India Company in the 18th century.

19. Södermalm

We’ve already taken in the scenery and visited Fotografiska, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg on this island south of the centre.

Södermalm, where Greta Garbo grew up, has a few ultra-cool neighbourhoods with quirky shops and interesting places to go out.

Try SoFo (South of Folkungagatan) for one-of-a-kind designer boutiques, vintage shops and hip restaurants and cafes.

Nytorget Square here is a fun night out in summer.

The same goes for Mosebacke, which had a bohemian reputation for as long as anyone can remember, and is just the place to go for designer shopping, live music and a craft beer or coffee.

The sight of Stockholm from the terrace of the Södra Teatern is not to be missed.

20. Canal Trip

So much of Stockholm’s charm lies in its waterways that you’d be remiss not to see the city from the water.

You could even say it’s the first thing to do in the city, as you’ll get your bearings and see the parts you’d like to explore deeper later on.

A favourite trip is to head east on the Djurgårdsbrunnskanalen, a canal on the side of Djurgården.

This was dug during the reign of Charles XIV in 1825. On the way out there are lush views of palaces and gardens, and as you loop back you’ll see the city in all its majesty.

You could also take a bridges, which takes around two hours if you want to dig a bit deeper.

21. Hallwyl Museum

In the 1890s the aristocratic couple Walther von Hallwyl and his wife Wilhelmina ordered this mansion in the centre of Stockholm facing Berzelii Park.

The architect was Isak Gustaf Clason, responsible for many regal properties around the city like the Nordic Museum.

Hallywyl House is in a faithful Italian Renaissance style and while it might seem historic, the palace was advanced for its day and had phones, plumbing, central heating and electricity.

The countess in particular was a prodigious art collector, and even ten years before she passed away the palace had been donated to the state because of its profusion of fine art, furniture, silver, tableware and expertly crafted fittings.

The drawing room, dining room and billiard room are all very swish, while the courtyard puts on concerts in summer.

22. Stockholm Public Library

A bibliophile’s idea of heaven, the central building for the Stockholm Public Library is one of the world’s most beautiful libraries, and changed the city’s relationship with books when it opened in 1928. That’s down to the monumental rotunda at the top of the building.

This is a gigantic hall encircled with bookshelves, and for the first time readers could seek out the book they needed by themselves without having to consult the librarians.

Gunnar Asplund designed the library, and it’s held as a shining example of the Swedish Classicist movement.

There’s no fee to enter, and many of the titles are in English if you’re in need of a quiet, rainy day activity.

23. Norrmalm

If you’re young and fashion-conscious Stockholm’s revitalised city centre has all the chain stores, malls and old-school department stores to stay on point.

This area of Stockholm, also known simply as “City”, had an iffy reputation up to the 90s when it was brightened up and made pedestrian-friendly.

Now it’s a shopper’s paradise where there are flagships stores for international brands all along Drottninggatan, which is heaving on weekends.

Meanwhile Åhléns and the upmarket Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) are thriving Swedish institutions that have been here for more than a century.

24. Kungsträdgården

Behind the Royal Palace is a park that has something happening in all seasons.

But Kungsträdgården is never more beautiful than in April when its twin avenues of cherry trees are in bloom.

Thousands of people show up for Körsbärsblommans Dag (Cherry Blossom Day) in this month for a walk under those pink canopies.

In winter there’s a skating rink in the part of the park known as the oktogonen (octagon), while if you pass by in summer you’re sure to catch some temporary installation or festival.

And if you just have time to kill you could catch a game of street chess.

25. Go for Fika

If you’re new to the country then Fika is the easiest part of Swedish culture to pick up.

It’s essentially a coffee break, with no set time but is always a social occasion.

People at work “fika” (it’s a verb as well as a noun) to chat for a few minutes over coffee and a snack.

The partner for your cup of coffee can be anything from cookies to an open sandwich (smörgås). But the tried and trusted option is probably cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) or if you want to be a bit more indulgent, a slice of apple cake (äppelkaka).

25 Best Things to Do in Stockholm (Sweden):

• Vasa Museum
• Modern Art Museum
• The Medieval Museum
• Swedish History Museum
• Royal Palace
• Fotografiska
• The City Hall
• Strandvägen
• Prins Eugen Waldemarsudde
• ABBA: The Museum
• Monteliusvägen
• Nordic Museum
• Drottningholm Palace
• Hallwyl Museum
• Stockholm Public Library
• Kungsträdgården
• Go for Fika

• Experience Guide (sv, dk, no, eng)
• Corporate (in Swedish)
• Press & Media
• Travel Trade
• Nature & Outdoors

12 breathtaking natural wonders in Sweden

From the highest coastline in the world to a hidden freshwater archipelago – Sweden has plenty of natural wonders just waiting to be explored.

Here are 12 nature experiences that deserve to go on your bucket list.

• Natural wonders are sites or monuments that weren’t made or altered by humans, like The Victoria Falls, The Grand Canyon and Mount Everest.
• Natural phenomena occur or manifest without human input, like sandstorms, starling murmurations or gravity.
• Recurring natural phenomena that can be experienced at a specific place, like the Northern Lights, are often included when unmissable natural wonders are listed.

In a world where cities and countries are constantly competing in launching new, spectacular buildings and attractions that will overshine the latest ones, it can be quite liberating to take a step back and look past the building cranes and the noise of concrete drilling. Find a place that was created without a single human hand. A place that, even if it’s been unchanged for thousands –sometimes even hundreds of millions of years – is still as majestic today. Man-made sites are imposing in all their glory, but sometimes nature can be even more impressive.

Some natural wonders are so incredible that it can be hard to believe that no one else than Mother Nature herself is behind them. In ancient times they were often explained with supernatural forces. Sweden has a strong tradition of folkloric tales where mythological creatures played a central role in shaping nature. Oddly placed huge rocks were said to have been thrown by raging trolls and the sweeping mist that hovers over meadows at dusk and dawn was thought to be dancing elves.

Another example is the Northern Lights, also called Aurora Borealis. The Vikings believed this spellbinding natural phenomenon to be the Valkyries taking fallen soldiers to meet Odin, while the Sámi – the indigenous people of Sweden – thought the lights were the souls of the dead. If you disrespected the souls by dancing or singing, the light would dip down and carry you off to the afterlife. Even though we know today that the Aurora Borealis appears as solar particles collide with gases in the earth’s atmosphere, it’s still an eerie and entrancingly beautiful experience.

While Sweden doesn’t have any Mount Everest nor Niagara Falls, our natural wonders are unique and accessible, often easy for anyone to experience them. Imagine skiing under the Midnight Sun in the middle of the summer or taking the family on a waterfall safari while the autumn leaves paint the landscape red and yellow. Sweden is scattered with ancient natural wonders waiting to become long-lasting memories of yours.

Here are 12 natural wonders in Sweden to visit in your lifetime.

The Northern Lights – all over Sweden

The swirling kaleidoscope of the Northern Lights is often referred to as the greatest light show on earth. Streaks of greens, reds and purple snake across the night sky, as if dancing to unheard music. This spellbinding natural phenomenon is usually seen in northern Sweden from late September until early April. However, a solar cycle forecasted to peak in July 2025, is already greatly increasing the chances to spot the Northern Lights both earlier and further south. All you need to do is to keep track of the Aurora forecasts, head out to a preferably dark place and look up into the starry night.

The Midnight Sun in Swedish Lapland

Contrary to the Northern Lights in the darker half of the year, the Midnight Sun occurs during the early summer months and is a must-see for sun worshippers. To experience this magical natural phenomenon, head to northern Sweden. The further, the better. In Jokkmokk you can see the Midnight Sun for 32 days in a row and in Abisko you’ll enjoy 55 days when the sun never sets. It might affect your ability to sleep, but the locals here know how to take advantage of the never-ending summer days. A range of unique experiences under the rays of the Midnight Sun awaits – from skiing to golfing.

The 100 glaciers in Sarek National Park

Wild waters, an astonishing alpine area and a dramatic delta landscape – the mountainous national park of Sarek is home to countless natural wonders. Situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laponia in Sweden’s Arctic region, Sarek invites you to both the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun. To sprinkle the experience even more, this is the land of the Sami with their reindeer husbandry and almost 100 glaciers. Visitors pitch their tents or stay on the outskirts of the park at night as Sarek National Park is free of comfortable accommodation. In short, Sarek is the place if you want to experience Swedish nature in its most raw and beautiful way.

Kebnekaise – the highest mountain in Sweden

The tallest summit in Sweden, Kebnekaise stretches a whopping 2,106 metres into the sky and is a given point on many adventurers’ bucket lists. The top is reachable via a hiking trail from Nikkaluokta. After 19 kilometres, you’ll reach the foot of the mountain and STF Kebnekaise Mountain Station from where there are two nature paths leading up to the mountain top. The hike can be quite challenging, but as you conquer the massif formed by Mother Nature hundreds of million years ago, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views over the barren landscape in Sweden and Norway.

The Coral Cave in Jämtland

Step into the Coral Cave by Lake Stora Blåsjön and you can expect to crawl through narrow passages and wander in great halls. It’s taken thousands of years for the water to erode the limestone-rich rock, but it wasn’t until 1985 that the cave was discovered by humans. Several new passages have been found throughout the years, and today this six-kilometres-long natural wonder is considered the longest cave in Sweden. The name comes from the stalactite-covered ceiling, reminiscent of corals. The cave is only accessible through guided tours during the summer months. To top it off, end the excursion by taking a refreshing bath in the waterfall at the cave entrance.

The ever-rising land of The High Coast

Hiking, climbing, kayaking or skiing – there are many ways to enjoy the breathtaking views of The High Coast of Sweden. At 286 metres above sea level, this is the highest coastline in the world – and the land mass continues to rise by about 8 millimetres per year. The phenomenon is a geological process called post-glacial land uplift and has occurred since the most recent ice age. The High Coast of Sweden was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, and its dramatic landscape, complete with centuries-old fishing villages and an uncrowded archipelago, makes for a stunning backdrop to any photo.

Waterfall safari in Dalarna

There’s no better way to appreciate the power of nature than to take in a waterfall with all your senses. Listen to the roar of the rushing water. Feel the escaping droplets on your cheeks. Watch the sun rays hitting the splashing water and being reflected into a fleeting rainbow. Sweden is sprinkled with waterfalls, large and small. In the county of Dalarna, you can tick off seven of them on a waterfall safari . One is Njupeskär, with a height of 93 metres, making it one of the highest waterfalls in the country. It’s reachable via an easy hike through the beautiful Fulufjället National Park and with a little imagination, you might even spot the mythological creature of ‘näcken’ in the water, playing his violin.

If you can't get enough of waterfalls, check out waterfalls in Sweden.

Lurö – the largest freshwater archipelago in Europe

Sweden is home to several well-known and appreciated archipelagos, like the Stockholm archipelago and the Bohuslän archipelago. However, there is a less known and less crowded archipelago, spread out in Lake Vänern . A hidden gem, but also the largest freshwater archipelago in Europe, the Lurö archipelago is a great place to become one with nature. Come with your boat or take the ferry from Ekenäs to the main island Lurö. A world of 250 islands awaits, from barren inserts to boggy pine forests. Go island hopping by kayak, swim in the clear water and immerse yourself in the tranquil environment.

Gullmarn – the only threshold fjord in Sweden

Gullmarsfjorden, or Gullmarn, is a threshold fjord in the Bohuslän archipelago and the only ‘real’ fjord in Sweden – yet it’s still a hidden gem. The name Gullmarn is Old Norse, meaning God’s Sea. And this fjord does offer a heavenly nature experience. A nature reserve that boasts steep cliffs with red granite on one side and grey gneiss on the other, meadows and sandy beaches. At the mouth of the fjord, in between Lysekil and Fiskebäckskil, the depth is almost 40 metres. It then extends down to 120 metres further in, making it a popular diving spot thanks to the exciting marine life. Lumpfish, saddle dolphins and sometimes even orcas have been spotted here.

The bird dance at Lake Hornborgasjön

The dancing cranes at Lake Hornborgasjön in West Sweden make for a natural phenomenon unlike any other. Every April, tens of thousands of cranes arrive at the lake to put on a show. The dancing is part of a mating routine and incorporates the birds bowing and circling each other before they stretch out their wings and jump up and down in the air – a spectacular performance to witness. This annual bird festival lasts for weeks, and the record was set in 2019 when no less than 27,300 cranes gathered by the lake. When they’re done dancing, the cranes fly to northern Sweden to nest and breed over the summer.

The sea stack fields of Gotland

A dog, a chimpanzee, an old man and a maiden – all moulded in rough grey limestone. The fascinating sea stacks of Gotland and Fårö may look like they were man-made figures, but they are all created by natural erosion during the last Ice Age. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes like trainers while walking around the sea stack fields as the ground is often rocky and uneven. Marvel at the great arched gate in Lergrav, and be dazzled by the barren, almost otherworldly landscape of Langhammars. Use your imagination, and you might even come up with new figures for the sea stack collection.

Åsnen – one of Sweden’s many mighty forests

70 percent of Sweden is covered by forest. The country has 30 national parks from north to south, and while Åsnen is the latest on the list, its forests, lakes and uninhabited islands have been here for ages. Come here to kayak in summer, hike in autumn, ski in winter or try forest-bathing in spring – the possibilities for pure nature experiences here are endless. As a typical Swedish natural wonder, the area is steeped in mythological tales. One of the entrances has been named ‘Trollberget’ (Troll Mountain) and not far from there you’ll find a gap in the boulders where the trolls were said to celebrate Christmas.

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• Swedish Lapland

How to capture the elusive Northern Lights

Swedish lapland – a culture-rich natural wonderland swedish lapland – a culture-rich natural wonderland.

When and where to see the magical Northern Lights in Sweden

When and where to see the spectacular Midnight Sun

The 25 Best Things to do in Sweden

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If you want to spend your vacation outdoors, surrounded by beauty everywhere you look, put Sweden at the top of your travel destination shortlist! With glistening lakes for kayaking, wide-open spaces for wandering, snow-dusted mountains for skiing, and white sandy beaches for camping, the Nordic paradise shows off nature at its finest.

Spend some time in the cities, and you’ll discover a whole new side of Sweden. Rainbows of colorful houses lining the water’s edge, remarkable palaces that invite you to explore, sustainable restaurants run by forward-thinking chefs, and designer outlets filled with glamorous treasures are just some of the things you can expect here.

Whatever you’re into, you’ll never be stuck for what to do in Sweden. Visit in summer to celebrate the summer solstice, go wild swimming in refreshing lakes, and amble in giant green parks. Then return in winter for the chance to experience dog sledding, stay in an ice hotel, and hunt for the elusive Northern Lights.

With so many fantastic things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Sweden. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Sweden bucket list, and you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring one of the most beautiful and enchanting places in the world. 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to do in Sweden

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25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Sweden 

1. experience the east and west coming together at reorient festival.

One of the coolest things to do in Sweden is to check out the ReOrient Festival . This one-of-a-kind festival celebrates the absolute best music, dance, and cultural performances from the East and West.

The festival is a great way to discover new things you never knew you liked. Exotic instruments, different melodies, original costumes, and offbeat choreography make the ReOrient Festival a feast for the senses.

In addition to the spectacular shows, the festival also highlights Arab club culture. This specialist way of life involves bringing people together to exchange ideas and discuss important events.

To help raise awareness and encourage people to take action, educational seminars and talks about current affairs in the Middle East are also held. It’s a really accessible and understandable way of learning about what’s going on in the world.

Everything takes place in the stunning Södra Teatern in the center of Stockholm . The program usually takes place in March, although the dates sometimes change. Check the website to confirm the dates before making any arrangements.

2. Explore the Very First Open-Air Museum in the World

If you love doing things you can’t do anywhere else while on vacation, you’ve got to pay a visit to Skansen while in Sweden. This charming place is the oldest open-air museum in the world and is a fascinating place to explore.

Skansen was opened in 1891 by academic and visionary teacher Artur Hazelius. He came up with the idea when looking for ways to show future generations what normal life was like in Sweden before it was completely transformed by the Industrial Age.

The giant museum covers over 74 acres (30 hectares) and is absolutely packed with rural scenes that look so perfect you’ll struggle to believe they’re real. You’ll find more than 150 buildings here that were collected from all over Sweden and rebuilt inside Skansen. 

Wandering through the reimagined streets, between town districts, past manor houses, alongside churches, and inside bakeries really helps you dream up what life was like back then. You’ll even see members of staff dressed in period costumes going about their everyday lives.

Book a Stockholm Bus & Boat Tour

3. Gorge on Authentic Swedish Meatballs

Trying real Swedish meatballs is one of the must-do things in Sweden you can’t possibly miss out on. These mouthfuls of deliciousness are made from a combination of ground pork and veal mixed with eggs, cream or milk, breadcrumbs, and yummy seasonings. They’re similar to IKEA meatballs but so much better!

Authentic Swedish meatballs are usually served with creamy mashed potatoes, a rich meaty gravy, tart lingonberry jam, and pickled cucumber. Because it’s so popular, you’ll find this classic dish on almost every restaurant menu throughout the country. You’ll also find food kiosks in major cities selling take-out versions. 

We recommend ordering some meatballs from Bakifickan . This chain is incredible, and they’ve got restaurants all over Sweden, including in Stockholm and Visby. Here they pay just as much attention to the sides as they do the meatballs, creating a delicious and well-rounded meal you’ll never want to end.

If you want to try traditional Swedish meatballs with a twist, visit Meatballs for the People . This trendy restaurant serves different variations of the classic dish, including meatballs made from beef, salmon, and elk. 

Book a Stockholm Culinary Tour

4. Spend the Night in a Magical Ice Hotel

Sleeping in a hotel where almost everything is made from ice isn’t only one of the most unique things to do in Sweden. It’s one of the most unique things to do in the world!

The invigorating waters of the Torne River freeze and turn into ice each winter. And every year since 1989, incredibly talented designers, architects, and carvers have come together to hand-sculpt the ice and transform the ice into the Icehotel.

Open throughout the coldest season of the year (December-April), Icehotel is the first and largest hotel made from snow and ice in the world. From the beds in the guest rooms to the glasses in the bar, practically everything here is made out of ice. Don’t worry about a chilly night – all guest rooms are equipped with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags to keep you warm.

For an experience you’ll never forget, stay in one of the Art Suites. Each of these stunning rooms is unique and boasts dramatic ice and snow sculptures made by artists from around the world. After the ice melts, the room is gone forever, making your experience truly one-of-a-kind. 

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

5. Unleash Your Cultural Side with Parkteatern

Summer is a wonderful time to visit Sweden for so many reasons. If you’re planning to visit Stockholm between June and September, you’ve got to check out Parkteatern .

This annual cultural event takes place in many different public spots throughout Sweden’s capital. The best bit? All the shows are totally free! This makes Parkteatern a great activity if you’ve got a small budget to work with. 

From famous musicals, dance performances, and music concerts to instrumental shows, theatrical plays, and children’s presentations, there’s absolutely loads going on throughout the festival. 

Many of the performances take place in parks, so you can enjoy the cool evening air while indulging your cultural side. Because entry is free, Parkteatern is incredibly popular. If there’s a performance you don’t want to miss, it’s worth packing a picnic, getting there early, and making a full day of it.

The dates, locations, and lineup change every year. So to make sure you don’t miss out on anything fun, have a look at the official website to see what’s happening when you’re in Stockholm.

6. Go Skinny Dipping in the Sea

One of the most fun things to do in Sweden is to strip off and plunge into the icy waters of the Baltic Sea. If you’re up for the challenge, make plans to visit Ribersborgs Kallbadhus , an open-air bathhouse that was built way back in 1898.

This dazzling bathhouse is located at the end of a jetty and enjoys fantastic views across the sea over to Copenhagen, Denmark. The main part of the bathhouse is divided into two naked saunas: one for men and one for women.

For a small set price, you can relax for as long as you like in the sauna. If you’re really feeling brave, you can leave the comforting warmth of the sauna and jump into the icy-cold sea! It’s not every day you get the chance to go skinny dipping in the Baltic Sea, so it’s definitely worth a shot.

For an even more relaxing experience, you can enjoy a massage at the bathhouse while you take in the beautiful views. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop at the café for a drink and the chance to reflect on your unique experience.

7. Step Back in Time and Experience Viking Life

Walking through the streets of Visby is like stepping through the pages of a fairytale book. The captivating town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site hidden away on Gotland Island, where time seems to move at a slower pace.

The charming medieval town dates back to the 12th century and is protected by a well-preserved ancient wall that incorporates strong defensive towers. Centuries-old churches, picture-perfect beaches, bustling town squares, and a fascinating museum home to countless antiquities are just some of the things you’ll find here.

When you get hungry, stop by a local cafe and order some saffron pancakes. This local specialty is made by combining almonds, rice, saffron, milk, sugar, cream, and eggs. The mixture is then baked until it’s light, fluffy, and simply delicious.

If you can, plan to visit Visby during Medieval Week in August. During this spectacular celebration, you’ll have the chance to see jousting tournaments, witness amazing fire shows, go shopping at medieval markets, and watch parades that show what life was like during Viking times.

8. Brush Up on Your History Knowledge at the Vasa Museum

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, one of the best things to do in Sweden is to seek shelter inside the Vasa Museum . This fascinating attraction boasts all kinds of engrossing displays, which will have you captivated for hours.

The highlight of the museum is the Vasa – a giant 17th-century ship. The magnificent vessel was once owned by King Gustavus Adolphus. While the all-conquering king had great plans for the ship, it sunk on its maiden voyage in 1628.

For hundreds of years, the Vasa remained underwater. But in 1961, it was salvaged and returned to the surface. Experts then carefully restored the ship back to its original glory and kept it safe inside the Vasa Museum. 

As well as the marvelous ship that the museum is named after, the Vasa Museum also boasts a host of intriguing artifacts which were discovered when the ship was saved. The almost forgotten treasures are on display across 10 exhibition rooms, giving you a great idea of what life was like on the Vasa. 

Book a Vasa Museum Tour

9. Walk Through a Blue Whale

There’s only one place in the world where you can step through the body of a blue whale – the Natural History Museum in Gothenburg. The young blue whale was beached in 1865, a time when such creatures were slaughtered instead of rescued.

After the whale had been killed, taxidermist and curator of the Gothenburg Natural History Museum, August Wilhelm Malm, bought the whale and transported it to his museum, where it would become the main attraction.

The whale is separated into two parts. Its skin is tightly stretched over a wooden frame, making it look like a real, intact blue whale. To the side of the skin lies the whale’s skeleton, which is staggeringly huge.

The whale’s jaw is hinged, and on special occasions, it’s opened and you can walk through the mouth into the belly. Unlike what you may expect, the belly of the whale is quite a pleasant, cozy place, outfitted with benches, carpets, and wall hangings. If you’re looking for unique Sweden attractions, this is it!

10. Discover Sweden’s Traditional Sami Culture

Visiting a Sami village is one of the most incredible Sweden activities you can do during your trip. The Sami people are Sweden’s indigenous people who lead culturally rich and sustainable lives as close to nature as possible.

A lot of the Sami population live in the vast Swedish Lapland area in the north, and you can spend a day with them as part of a tour to learn more about the way they live. Although their lives are much more modern than they used to be, their everyday habits and lifestyle choices are still based on their ancestors who lived centuries ago.

Most tours begin at a Sami camp where you can spend a few hours around the fire, enjoying traditional Sami food and enjoying piping hot coffee. Local people will tell you fascinating stories about their families and surprise you with their day-to-day lives.

You’ll get to see impressive reindeer herds up close and may even get to ride on one, depending on the tour. Some tours also include a husky sleigh ride, which is something you’ve absolutely got to experience at some point in your life! 

11. Enjoy the Best Summer Flavors at a Crayfish Party

If you’re visiting Sweden in August or September, you’ll seriously be missing out if you don’t attend a crayfish party. One of the best ways to spend a lazy summer day in a city park, crayfish parties ( kräftskivor in Swedish) are incredibly popular at this time of year and mark the end of the season.

During crayfish parties, big groups of locals gather together at parks and other open spaces with glowing lights and party hats, making the most of the final balmy evenings. To celebrate, huge pots of crayfish are boiled up along with dill, salt, and beer.

After they’re cooked, the crayfish are chilled until they reach the perfect texture and temperature. As soon as they’re ready, you devour them straight from the shell.

If you don’t have any local friends, you may find it a little tricky to join in with a crayfish party. But don’t worry – there are plenty of other places you can try the seafood delicacy.

B.A.R. in Stockholm is one of our favorite places for crayfish. Here you can select the crayfish you want to eat directly from the counter and watch as the chef cooks them for you right in front of your eyes.

12. Enjoy a Sauna Inside a Golden Egg

A sauna is one of the things to do in Sweden you can’t miss out on. If you’re looking for a sauna with a difference, check out the Solar Egg . Hidden away in Kiruna, one of the northernmost towns in the country, the Solar Egg looks like a bizarre art gallery installation, but it’s actually one of the most incredible saunas in Sweden.

Located in the middle of a dramatic field of snow, the egg glistens in the sunshine and is made up of shiny golden plates put together in a geometric design. Step inside the golden egg, and you’ll discover a surprisingly spacious sauna complete with a wood-burning stove built in the shape of a human heart.

There’s a small window so you can gaze at the snowy landscape outside while you relax. If you get too hot, you may not be able to go for a dip in the sea like you can in many of Sweden’s saunas. But you can have an invigorating roll around in the snow!

13. Explore Sweden’s Gorgeous Archipelago by Boat

Sweden is made up of thousands of islands of all different sizes and shapes. Comprised of almost 30,000 individual islands, the archipelago to the East of Stockholm is the largest one in the country.

This archipelago is almost too beautiful to be true. Bursting with natural wonder in the form of sandy beaches, dense woodland, and rocky cliffs, this part of the country is almost entirely untouched and unspoiled.

If you’ve got enough time, we definitely recommend exploring some of the biggest islands separately. But if you’re short on time, you can still experience the stunning island by signing up for a boat tour.

There are loads of boat trips to choose from. To really get the most out of your tour, we suggest going on a boat trip that’s at least 2.5 hours long. This way you’ll get to see some of the islands that are further away from the mainland than the others. The further away you go, the more pristine and alluring the islands become.

Book a Stockholm Archipelago Tour

14. Become an Art Lover at Fotografiska

If you think you’re not into art or photography, a trip to Fotografiska will totally change your mind. One of the best Sweden attractions to check out while you’re in Stockholm, Fotografiska is a contemporary photography art gallery set inside a repurposed customs building at the water’s edge in Södermalm.

Every year, the gallery’s exhibitions are divided into four sections, each of which is dedicated to a single photographer. In the past, the museum has featured the work of Irving Penn, Robert Mapplethorpe, Akseli Valmunen, and Guy Bourdin.

You never know whose work will be on display during your visit. But you can be certain that it will be incredibly varied and captivating, highlighting many different styles and techniques. 

In addition to the art displays, Fotografiska also hosts amazing music events throughout the year. Take a look at the gallery’s website to find out if there’s anything fun happening during your visit.

Book a Fotografiska Ticket

15. Check Out the Only Twisting Tower in the World

For some of the best sights in Sweden, head to the top of the Turning Torso in Malmö. This unique tower has three claims to fame: it’s the only twisting tower in the world, it’s the second-tallest residential building in Europe, and it’s the tallest skyscraper in Scandinavia.

An incredible work of art, the Turning Torso features a white façade and many tiny windows that wind their way into the sky. The mesmerizing structure twists 90 degrees between the bottom and the top.

Its unique design makes the building look almost impossible, but it definitely exists! If you manage to tear your eyes away from the one-of-a-kind tower, head inside and take the elevator to the top.

As it’s full of residential homes, conference rooms, and meeting rooms, the Turning Torso is off-limits to the public for most of the year. But there are currently plans underway to organize guided tours ASAP so you can explore the inside of the tower and admire the amazing views from the top.

Book a Lund & Malmö Tour

16. Transform into ABBA

When you think of Swedish music artists who made it big, ABBA probably pops into your mind. While it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see the upbeat group perform during your visit, you can turn yourself into ABBA and pretend to be a pop star for the day!

A visit to the ABBA Museum in Stockholm is one of the top things to do in Sweden. The interactive museum encourages you to get involved and have a great time by virtually trying on classic ABBA costumes. You’ll get to sing, dance, and perform virtually alongside the four original members – you’ll essentially become the fifth member of Abba.

You’ll also get to check out fantastic exhibits filled with costumes worn by the artists, as well as trinkets and stories from their childhoods. Grab one of the audio guides, and you’ll get to hear ABBA guiding you through the museum, telling you all kinds of secrets and tales. 

Book an ABBA The Museum Ticket

17. Test Your Taste Buds with Pickled Herring

Pickled herring is an essential part of Swedish cuisine that dates back centuries when pickling was one of the few ways of making fresh food last through the winter months. Although there are plenty of ways to preserve food today, pickled herring still remains a popular favorite among locals. 

The pickling juice used to make pickled herring includes water, strong vinegar, salt, and various different spices. Small additions are sometimes made to the traditional recipe to make specialties such as mustard herring, onion herring, and soused herring. Some restaurants take things a step further and make intriguing concoctions like ginger and chili herring!

In Sweden, pickled herring is usually served along with soft-boiled potatoes, tangy sour cream, and finely chopped chives. Although, you’ll often find it as part of a mixed smorgasbord, too.

If you want to try pickled herring in a number of different ways, head to Stockholms Gästabud . This fantastic restaurant dishes up an excellent appetizer made up of three different types of herring. They’re all served with crispy Swedish cumin crispbread, local cheese, and a boiled egg.

18. Explore the Many Rooms Inside Drottningholm Palace

For some of the best Sweden sightseeing opportunities, head to Drottningholm Palace . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the royal residence of the king and queen of Sweden, making it an incredibly important and culturally valuable building. 

Although you can’t visit the part of the palace where the royals live, you can tour the rest of the palace, including the magnificent grounds. The immense structure was built in the 1600s and is the most well-preserved royal castle of its time. 

The palace was originally built following a French prototype designed by Nicodemus Tessin the Elder. Since then, many different royals have left their mark on the palace. Because of this, it boasts all kinds of styles from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.

There are many different parts of the glamorous palace to explore, including a beautifully-manicured park, a sophisticated palace theater, and an amazing Chinese pavilion.

The theater is the best-preserved 18th-century theater in Europe and the only one on the planet that still regularly uses stage machinery. If you visit in summer, you may be able to catch a performance!

Book a Stockholm Sightseeing Tour

19. Discover Exotic Species at the Kolmarden Wildlife Park

The Kplmarden Wildlife Park is one of those places that’s so cool you could easily spend days there. This huge park is home to more than 600 animal species, as well as action-packed rides and amazing shows.

The wildlife zone of the park is divided into five sections dedicated to the animals you’ll find in different parts of the world. The Valley of the Lions with African lions is one of our favorites. But the Forest of the Bears with Eurasian brown bears is a must-see, too.

There’s a spectacular bird of prey show, as well as a one-of-a-kind dolphin show that’s fun for the whole family. As you explore the park, be on the lookout for feeding and training shows, which invite you to learn more about the many animals that live within the park.

You’ve got to check out the safari gondola during your visit. The only gondola of its type in the world, the ride lets you soar high above the park and seek out thrilling animals like giraffes and lions.

20. Sip Swedish Snaps

Snaps is something you’ll find at all big festivals and events in Sweden, particularly the ones celebrated in summer, such as crayfish parties and herring season. 

This traditional local drink is made from a combination of delicious spices, herbs, and vodka. Snaps was first invented as a way of making strong, bad-tasting vodka more pleasant and easy to drink. Despite having access to much better quality vodka now, snaps is still remarkably popular throughout Sweden. Today it’s enjoyed for its delicious flavor and humorous side effects, which often involve loud singing and uncoordinated dancing! 

Snaps is typically served with food. As many Swedish dishes are on the salty side, snaps cuts through the salt, making each dining experience more enjoyable. However, it’s still perfectly acceptable to drink snaps on its own.

As you’d expect, you’ll find snaps in practically every bar and restaurant throughout the country. O.P. Anderson and Skåne are two of the most popular types of snaps. They’re both made with aniseed, caraway seeds, and fennel seeds. Give it a shot!

21. Visit Underground Art Galleries

You’ll find some of the best things to see in Sweden inside the most unlikely places. While the country is home to a number of excellent art galleries, some of the most spectacular are hidden away inside subway stations.

At least 90 subway stations throughout Sweden are decorated with elaborate art installations. The displays are truly incredible. Some pieces of art are on display on the actual platform, where you’d expect the billboard-like adverts to be.

Other stations are decorated with dazzling mosaics and impressive sculptures. Some stations even have every inch of the walls and ceiling covered in phenomenal paintings. The stunning artwork makes traveling throughout Sweden much more fun and interesting!

As they’re so wonderfully decorated, moving between subway stations really does feel like hopping between different art galleries. And the best bit is that you don’t have to pay any extra. As long as you’ve got a subway ticket, the underground art galleries are completely free to enjoy.

22. Gaze at Giant Water Lilies at the Victoriahuset

Tucked away near the Royal Brunnsviken Lake, you’ll find Bergian Garden. The beautiful botanical garden dates back to the 18th century and boasts a one-of-a-kind 20th-century aquatic greenhouse that was designed specifically to house tropical lilies.

Known as Victoriahuset, the magnificent greenhouse is one of the very few Victorian greenhouses that still exists today. It was designed and created by Bergianus Veit Wittrock in 1899, who was fascinated by aquatic plants and algae.

The magnificent centerpiece of Victoriahuset is a pond filled with giant Victoria Lilies – the largest species of water lily in the world. The huge leaves can grow up to 10 feet in diameter, making them almost twice as big as most adults. They’re also incredibly strong and can easily hold the weight of a child (around 65 pounds).

As well as the captivating water lilies, Victoriahuset also contains many other kinds of lilies and aquatic plants, which are taken care of inside the artificial Amazonian environment. Although it’s easy to create and maintain this specialist environment today, it was a fantastic achievement back in the early 1900s, when the greenhouse was originally kept warm with coal fires.

23. Go Apple Picking at the Kivik Apple Market Festival

One of the best things to do in Sweden in the fall is to check out the Kivik Apple Market Festival. Held in Kivik each year at the end of Sweden’s harvesting season, the one-day festival invites you to try fresh, local, and seasonal apples in every way imaginable.

You’ll find a huge range of apple-inspired food and drinks to sample, from apple pies, cobblers, and other desserts to cider, wine, and juice. It’s amazing to see how creative locals can get with one single ingredient.

If you prefer to keep things simple, you can go apple picking and enjoy the deliciously juicy fruits fresh from the tree. This is a great activity to do with kids, and you can take home whatever you pick to last the rest of your vacation.

There’s loads more going on in addition to the apple picking and gourmet market. You can sign up for apple cider tasting courses, shop for stunning apple-themed handicrafts, and get involved with apple-related games.

24. Wander Through the Ancient Streets of Gamla Stan

While you’re in Stockholm, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s Old Town. Known as Gamla Stan, this alluring town is one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Europe. Walking along the cobbled streets feels more like exploring an open-air museum than a real working town.

Wander throughout the pedestrian streets, and you’ll come across all kinds of dazzling sights that will take your breath away. Gabled houses that were built in the 17th century, independent boutiques full of artisan crafts, and delicious-smelling bakeries selling freshly-baked treats straight from the oven are just some of the things you can expect to find here. 

Västerlånggatan and Österlånggatan are the two main streets in Gamla Stan. Do as we do and start from one of the streets and see where your feet take you. With so much magic and hidden treasures around every corner, you’ll have an amazing time.

If you prefer to follow more of a set itinerary, make plans to check out the Royal Palace, Nobel Prize Museum , and Storkyrkan Cathedral . If you’re visiting Stockholm in winter, you’ve got to check out the Julmarknad Christmas market, too.

Book an Old Town Tour

25. Seek Out the Northern Lights

Because it’s so far north, Sweden is a fantastic place to see the Aurora Borealis. Although sightings of the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, you’ve got a great chance to spot them on a clear night between September and March.

There’s nothing like sitting in the middle of a snowy field, looking up into the dark sky above you and seeing mesmerizing waves of red, blue, green, and purple. Although the Northern Lights can easily be explained by science, there’s still something natural and otherworldly about them when you see them for yourself. 

To boost your chances, we recommend downloading a Northern Lights app, which will tell you when the natural spectacle is near and visible. Alternatively, you can sign up for a tour and let an expert guide you to the best places to see the show.

Abisko National Park is one of the top places in Sweden to see the Northern Lights. It’s got consistently clear skies, incredibly low light pollution, and the perfect location within the auroral oval. It’s a great place to start if you’re unsure where to go first. 

Book a Northern Lights Tour

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Sweden. What’s your favorite thing to do in Sweden?

Planning a trip to Sweden? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Frequently Asked Questions

Sleeping in a hotel where almost everything is made from ice isn’t only one of the most unique things to do in Sweden, it’s one of the most unique things to do in the world! The invigorating waters of the Torne River freeze and turn into ice each winter. And every year since 1989, incredibly talented designers, architects, and carvers have come together to hand-sculpt the ice and transform the ice into the Icehotel.

The Kplmarden Wildlife Park is one of those places that’s so cool you could easily spend days there. This huge park is home to more than 600 animal species, as well as action-packed rides and amazing shows. The wildlife zone of the park is divided into five sections dedicated to the animals you’ll find in different parts of the world. The Valley of the Lions with African lions is one of our favorites. But the Forest of the Bears with Eurasian brown bears is a must-see, too.

Because it’s so far north, Sweden is a fantastic place to see the Aurora Borealis. Abisko National Park is one of the top places in Sweden to see the Northern Lights. It’s got consistently clear skies, incredibly low light pollution, and the perfect location within the auroral oval. It’s a great place to start if you’re unsure where to go first.

Walking through the streets of Visby is like stepping through the pages of a fairytale book. The captivating town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site hidden away on Gotland Island, where time seems to move at a slower pace. The charming medieval town dates back to the 12th century and is protected by a well-preserved ancient wall that incorporates strong defensive towers. Centuries-old churches, picture-perfect beaches, bustling town squares, and a fascinating museum home to countless antiquities are just some of the things you’ll find here.

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Sweden

This Nordic country of Sweden was rich in breathtaking scenery and cultural destination. Sweden is not flashy and does not scream about its beauty. In its splendor, everyone can see himself as soon as sees with his own eyes. The Scandinavian beauty is surrounded by rocks and mountains. That’s built this amazing city which is retained the balance of his nature. Sweden is rich with its architectural monuments. Their castle is not complete without Scandinavian power and endurance with complemented elegant European trends. They look massive and beautiful. Here is an overview of the Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Sweden.

10. Abisko National Park

Abisko National Park was located in the Lapland region of Nothern Sweden. This park was is 210 kilometers from the Arctic circle. In the winter of this park, you can see the world’s most beautiful auroras in whole world. The area of these national parks was 79 km², you can also participate here in ski competitions. This park will attract tourists all year to enjoy the lake’s shores, canyons, rocks, mountains and nature here is harsh but it was amazing.

9. Vasa Museum

This museum was an exhibit in vasa’s ship. There is a ship that is 105 years older than the united states. This is a royal ship of Sweden, It sinks before he finished its first voyage. Tourists who visit this museum gets acquainted with the life of sailors with a ship and their history. Incidentally, this ship was decorated with gold with the guns on board were it bronze.

8. Kalmar Castle

This Castle was built in the mid of the 13th century to protect it against pirates. This castle was signed by the Kalmar union. This castle was rebuilt more than one time, the role of this castle was very important in the life of Sweden that has very changed. In the 19th century, this castle was destroyed. Today this castle was a museum that is perfectly preserved to the features of the northern renaissance. Despite its castle was massive and impressive appearance. Kalmar Castle was luxuriously decorated inside the castle.

7. Sarek National Park

The area of this park was almost two thousand kilometers. The park was unbridled nature and all of its beauty was wild. Throughout the park, there is one royal route was laid. Every tourist was advised to do this route another route was their own risk. It was a place for travelers who is not afraid of the challenges of nature. As a reward, they will be able to enjoy the beauty of plenty.

6. Oresund Bridge

5. Liseberg Park

Liseberg Park is an amusement park located in Gothenburg. This park was also included in the list of the world’s top 10 best amusement parks. In this park, there is a modern attraction hotel for guests, forest parks, a hotel for cottages, cafes, and restaurants. Liseberg Park is periodically updated with the modern or latest types of entertainment. Recently this park has opened one of the tallest free-fall towers in the world. Enough in the rides and park for the littles ones.

4. Drottningholm Palace

This palace was built in the 16th century by the Swedish king for his wife. These are some of the first residences in Sweden which does use for any defensive functions. After the huge fire this palace was rebuilt again to the example of Versailles, then he will acquire it a magnificent theater. Nowadays the royal family of Sweden was lives here in the castle. Every tourist is free to walk in any room and park. The boasts of the castle were beautiful and rich with its interiors, an ancient organ with a huge library.

3. Skansen Museum

In Stockholm, there is no other place more colorful than the Skansen. This museum was a living embodiment of Swedish history and culture that is you will touch in with your hand easily. In the territory of Skansen, there is a house in national style, a glassblower workshop, a forge, and a bakery. There are only 151 houses is in the estates from the 18th to 20th centuries. In this museum also a visitor zoo where all of the animals are living in their natural condition. There are more than three million people are visit this museum every year.

Visby is one of the largest islands in Sweden. it is also the center and main port of Scotland. It was also considered to be one of the best-preserved ancient cities in northern Europe. Visby is now under the protection of UNESCO. The history of the city is developed rapidly and almost independently of Sweden. There are walled castles, Christian churches, and old houses of the 13th century, which is called Sankta Maria Kyrka. The city has excellent infrastructure for the development of tourism.

1. Gamla Stan

Gamla Stan was one of the old town parts of Stockholm. This small town has several tourist attractions on its streets. The Stortorget square area is the heart of this city. There is a royal palace, a Nobel museum and also the narrowest street in Sweden. in addition to these, there is a famous building an old town that has several “secret” tourist attractions. Among them, there is a cannonball in the all wall of this house and a boy statue that’s is looking from the moon. Therefore it is one of the Top Tourist Attractions in Sweden.

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20+ Sweden Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

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Whether through meatballs, fish, or moustached chefs, Sweden is a country that has had a firm cultural chokehold on the world for years…

But when it comes to planning that perfect Sweden trip, lot of important information is often missing… especially when you want to venture out of the country’s ultra cool capital of Stockholm.

Where should you go? WHEN should you go? What should you eat? And what are some common culture shocks to prepare for?

Well in this post I’ll be sharing all my best travel tips for Sweden, learned the hard way through personal trial and error! I hope you find it helpful. 

Save this List of Sweden Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Beware that Sweden is actually quite vast

Now first, in terms of where to go, one thing to note is that Sweden is a lengthy country that spans quite a bit of distance from north to south, so you’ll get some very different experiences and landscapes depending on where you go. 

A common mistake first timers make is trying to spread themselves too thin, wanting to see Stockholm for instance while also gallivanting up North for the ice hotel or Swedish Lapland.

But, because the country is so spread apart, for those with a short time to work with, I’d recommend picking one region and exploring it in depth rather than trying to cover the entire country in one go. On my most recent trip for instance, I stuck almost entirely to the West Coast of Sweden, which allowed us to explore more in-depth and discover lesser known spots along the way.

That said, knowing where to go takes some research. 

Unlike other more popular European destinations, I feel like Sweden doesn’t have as many ultra-famous landmarks or iconic must-sees outside of its capital city, which is a shame because there’s so much beauty to be found in this country!

So, to get inspiration for where to visit, I highly advise getting advice from local bloggers who know Sweden well.

Some bloggers I found very helpful in the planning process were:

• Katie’s Away – lives in Gothenburg, lots of great content about Western Sweden 
• Madeline Rae Away – who is a Canadian living in Malmö
• And actually the main Visit Sweden tourism website is very handy as well with lots of unique ideas 

That said, a general tip I would have is to…

2. Explore beyond Stockholm

There are 21 regions in Sweden, so there’s (of course) plenty to see outside of its capital Stockholm (famed for its historic and cultural offerings). Some popular picks include…

• Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city and its archipelago with over 20 islands
• Swedish Lapland, in the North, known for its wildlife, nature and Sámi culture… as well as the world’s first ice hotel
• Gotland, Sweden’s largest island known for its natural beauty and Viking history 

And because I’m a nerd, I figure it’s important to also let you know that while there is so much more to Sweden than IKEA, there actually IS an IKEA hotel and IKEA museum built on the site of the world’s first ever IKEA in Älmhult. As someone who grew up loving the brand, I had a great time there, so consider adding it to your list! 

Still there are loads of nice areas beyond this, especially for nature lovers. If your goal is to get away from the tourist masses, Sweden is an excellent place.

3. Make sure to enjoy Swedish nature too (even on a city trip)

While not known for ultra dramatic scenery like its neighbour Norway, Sweden is filled with beautiful nature, from gorgeous coastline and islands to plenty of lush forests.

And in the most aggressive of first world problems, I actually had a very difficult time researching where to go (nature and otherwise) on my trip because there are just SO many lovely places and hikes.

Again, there are fewer iconic must-sees or must-dos in Sweden like in some other countries, which is both a curse and a blessing. On one hand, narrowing down locations can take a great deal of work, but on the other hand, once you find these gems, you’re often likely to enjoy them with plenty of peace and quiet.

So, if you go to Sweden, even if your itinerary includes a big city like Stockholm or Gothenburg, make sure to get out in nature too!

AllTrails is a great app for discovering nice walking trails no matter your destination.

4. Know the pros and cons of visiting in each season

Now as for when to visit, that will definitely depend on where you’re going and generally what you’re hoping to get out of your visit.

Overall, if you’re hoping to enjoying Swedish nature and outdoors, I’d say to prioritize visiting in the summer, late Spring, or early Fall. 

If however you want to enjoy wintery activities like the Northern Lights or dog sledding, then winter is of course the best time to go. 

For city breaks though, there are appealing reasons to visit in any season. Just be mindful that in winter, daylight hours are minimal… though there’s plenty of cozy places to hide away in!

5. Visit in mid-June to celebrate Swedish Midsommar

If you want my honest recommendation though, I’d say to go in mid-June, specifically so you can experience the wonders of Swedish Midsommar.

Midsommar typically takes place on a Saturday between June 20th and June 26, with the main festivities happening on the day before, Friday, or Midsommar Eve.

This is the biggest holiday of the year in Sweden, and while it’s often celebrated privately with family and friends much like Christmas, there are actually quite a few public gatherings that tourists can attend as well, and it’s honestly one of the most wholesosme and adorable things I’ve ever witnessed.

They make flower crowns, eat strawberries, decorate and put up a pole, then all dance and sing around said pole… it’s really so cute it hurts.

NOTE: Most cities and city hotels will be quite empty during this time as well since most Swedes will travel out to their summer houses or out to the countryside to celebrate. But that also means that countryside accommodation will be very booked up/pricey, so be sure to take that into consideration.

6. Consider camping for an affordable trip

Now in terms of accommodation, there really are options for every budget.

The cheapest one is of course camping!

Thanks to the Swedish “Right of Public Access”, or ‘Allemansrätten’, you are actually allowed to wild camp so long as you’re far enough away from someone’s private residence or land. This offers a ton of flexibility if you’re willing to camp, and there are plenty of businesses out there like this one that allow you to rent camping equipment if you’d prefer to not lug all your stuff over.

There are plenty of campsites as well, many of which offer rentable cabins.

7. Double check that sheets and towels are included

RANDOM NOTE: With more budget accommodation like cabins, do be mindful of the fact that bedsheets and towels are often NOT included by default, and may cost extra so be sure to read the fine print before assuming. This was even the case when we booked a guest suite at someone’s home in Smögen… and we had to put the sheets on ourselves after paying a surcharge! Definitely wasn’t expecting that.

8. Get familiar with the most popular  Nordic hotel chains 

Now if hotels are more your thing, do beware that a lot of hotels in Sweden are part of chains, some of which are more or less exclusive to the Nordic region so you might have never heard of them before.

I do like staying in more unique and boutique properties when possible, but if you’re planning a longer trip or plan to return to the Nordics, it might make sense to stay loyal to one chain and also join their loyalty programs to take advantage of special offers and potentially save money, especially since many of the chains have separate hotel lines that cater to different price points.

The largest chain in the Nordics is Scandic , but some other popular ones include Best Western , First Hotels , Strawberry (which encompasses a few chains like Comfort Hotel and Clarion Hotel) as well as some independent properties. On the luxury end of the spectrum, there’s also Elite Hotels of Sweden , which has over forty unique properties, many of which are housed in grand historic buildings.

Finally, in some cities you’ll also find ProfilHotels – I stayed in one in Halmstad and really enjoyed it! 

All to say, there are loads of hotel options in Sweden, but to get the most bang for your buck you might want to consider staying loyal to one chain as you go.

And do be mindful that most hotels in Sweden offer breakfast included in the room rate, with most buffets being really hearty with lots of tasty options, so that contributes to some excellent value for money as well. 

NOTE: I’m not sure if this is a common thing, when I was in Sweden I had a few hotels ask me to reserve a breakfast time which I’ve not encountered before so just be prepared to commit to a decision in case they ask!

9. Card payments are usually preferred in Sweden

Card is definitely king in Sweden, so make sure you have a fee-free credit or debit card for your trip.

I’ve been using Wise abroad for the past few years and love how easy it is. You can use my referral link here to get your first transfer for free up to 500 EUR.

NOTE: In Sweden, the local currency is the Swedish Krona. Though you won’t be handling much cash, I would definitely advise having a bit of a mental figure in your head that makes the conversion meaningful to you. For instance, during my trip, the Swedish Krona was about $9.50 USD so I would just round up to $10, which would help me roughly estimate how much everything cost.

10. Public transport in Sweden is excellent between cities, and within them

If you’re wondering how to get around Sweden, don’t worry – you don’t necessarily need a car. Public transport is actually really good, BUT understanding all the options and comparing companies can be a little confusing, so let me explain…

In terms of trains, there is a state owned rail company called SJ that operates trains across the country, but there are also some other companies that run on certain routes like FlixTrain, MTRX, and many more.

This can be confusing when you’re buying tickets, because each company’s website only sells tickets for their own trains, which isn’t going to give you a full overview of options. This is why I would recommend at least during your research phase to use a third party like Omio because you can type in your departure point and destination, then it’ll show you options across companies and across transport modes as well, including buses which can be a more budget friendly way of travelling between cities. 

I actually took a Flixbus in Gothenburg to the airport and found it overall very pleasant, so definitely look into buses as well if cost is a priority. 

Train tickets go on sale about 3 months in advance and the more coveted routes can sell out quickly, so planning ahead is definitely key to success.

Now In terms of regional and local public transport in Sweden, this is largely controlled regionally by individual regional entities, which means the different ticket types and cost will depend on where exactly you’re going. 

Luckily, the official Visit Sweden website has a list of them sorted by region and destination.

So you can hop on these regional sites for more in depth information about options… though beware some of them actually don’t have English websites so make sure you have google translate handy!

Now again, public transport is great however you want some more flexibility, and especially if you want to do a lot of trips out in nature, then…

11. Consider renting a car if you want more flexibility (especially for nature trips)

I usually go on DiscoverCars which lets me compare different options at a glance.

Having a car on our recent trip really helped us explore less popular spots so I can definitely recommend it, though it’s not a huge dealbreaker – local buses can be quite efficient at getting you out into nature spots as well.

If you do drive though, do…

12. Be very careful when it comes  to parking

Don’t trust herd mentality or just assume locals will know what they’re doing!

Swedish parking monitors are really on top of their game and for foreigners, the signage and systems might not be immediately apparent.

Like at one hiking spot for instance, with all the cars parked, we couldn’t tell that the only valid parking spots were the ones marked with the white rectangles so when we got back from the hike, our entire half of the parking area had all gotten tickets.

I was so confident too because all the other cars parked there had local plates, so yes don’t just assume everyone else knows what they’re doing.

13. Know the tricks for saving money on dining in Sweden

Dining out in Sweden isn’t the cheapest, but luckily there are tricks you can use to save money.

For instance, you can keep an eye out for lunch specials (Dagens rätt). Many places in Sweden offera “Dagens rätt” which is like a lunchtime dish of the day that’s available for an affordable price, often with extras like bread, a salad buffet and coffee included.

Alternatively, you can keep an eye out for Gatukök, aka street kitchens that offer take out foods for a relatively affordable price. 

Otherwise, the best way to save money on food is by buying snacks/drinks from the supermarket, and possibly booking accommodation with a kitchen so you can cook for yourself.

That said, when in Sweden, do be sure to…

14. Try local Swedish dishes, especially Husmanskost

Sure, Swedish food isn’t as popular abroad as other European cuisines (unless you count IKEA) but there are a lot of great things to try.

If you want simple home style meals, something to look for is Husmanskost , which is a term that refers to hearty homey meals.

Some classics include of course…

• Köttbullar meatballs
• Kroppkaka which are Swedish dumplings 
• Ärtsoppa a thick pea soup 
• And naturally, Aquqvit the national spirit of choice 

Also be sure to try some seafood especially if you’re along the coast. Pickled herring is common, but my personal favourite are the shrimp sandwiches you’ll find everywhere, especially along the coast… as well as Gravlax, which is a cured salmon.

Finally, a quirky specialty I’ve heard lots about is  Kebabpizza . I didn’t get a chance to try it but let me know in the comments if you have! 

Now you might be wondering about Swedish Smorsgabord w hich is one of the most popular Swedish words I think to have made its way into popular use in English. Well, this essentially refers to a buffet like spread of typical hot and cold dishes. From what I’ve heard, it’s most commonly enjoyed at home as a serving style when you have guests and not necessarily something you go out for, though in my research sometimes hotels will offer smorgasbord type spreads, especially when it comes to big holidays like Midsommar or Christmas.

Finally, Swedish Candy is also super popular – you’ll find these big displays of pick and mix candy everywhere from large supermarkets to candy dedicated shops. Although I’ve heard Saturday is the main day to eat sweets for some reason – if any Swedes can confirm or explain in the comments, that would be great. 

15. When in Sweden, indulge in Fika

Next very important Sweden tip: make sure to enjoy some Fika!

This delectable custom involves slowly enjoying a cup of coffee with some sweet treats, typically in the afternoon, often with a tasty pastry. I don’t think you need any more details than that. 

16. Take note of special food celebration days

Lastly on the food front, something I find super cute about Sweden is they have special days for celebrating and enjoying certain foods. 

So, for instance…

• Semla Day on Fat Tuesday 
• Cinnamon bun day on October 4
• Waffle day on March 25

And many many more, including an overall month for crayfish in August. So, if any of these align with your travel schedule, be sure to partake. 

And if you’re planning on buying alcohol do be mindful of the fact that…

17. Alcohol sales are highly controlled in Sweden

Supermarkets are only allowed to sell what they call ‘weak beers’ typically between 2.5 – 3%. In fact, a lot of breweries make these weak beers for this express purpose.

Anything stronger than that you’ll need to go to a state owned liquor store known as a Systembolaget.

All that said, alcohol is really expensive in Sweden so I personally wouldn’t prioritize it too much. 

18. Tipping isn’t generally expected in Sweden

Now onto tipping etiquette!

Generally speaking, tipping isn’t expected in Sweden, but if you do want to tip for exceptional service, usually only for nicer sit down restaurants, then the most common thing is to round up, no more than 5-10%. 

Usually the way you tip is you enter the total amount you want to pay including tip in the machine when they hand it to you. 

Another etiquette thing to keep in mind in Sweden is to…

19. Always obey the queue and look out for a number dispenser

The most common place where a tourist might encounter this is at a bakery, especially those where a physical queue isn’t feasible. Be on the lookout for a numbered ticket dispenser which will help you mark your place in line. 

Another thing is to…

20. Be mindful of personal space

I’ve found Swedish people are generally really friendly when you end up engaging with them in a social setting but when you’re just out in public do keep your distance and your voice down.

In terms of what to wear, in the cities I found all the rumours to be true…

21. Casual style is generally a bit dressier in Swedish cities

Swedes are effortlessly stylish, usually sticking to very basic and minimalist staples that somehow look ultra cool on them. So saying that, do note that day to day clothing tends to be a bit dressier than North American casual, so feel free to adjust accordingly.

BONUS TIP: If you’re visiting in the winter as well, you’ll find many wear reflective accessories like these Reflexsele for safety purposes when out in the dark. I don’t think this would be necessary for a tourist unless you’re planning to be out biking  or running in the dark, but just FYI.

I hope this list of Sweden Travel Tips was helpful!

Hopefully by now, you’ll feel much more prepared for your big Swedish vacation, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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