best places to visit in sweden in the summer

23 Best Places to Visit in Sweden During Summer (2024)

Looking for places to visit in Sweden during summer? Sweden is the ideal spot for a summer vacation. It’s outdoorsy culture, and extended daylight hours make it perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty.

Being half Swedish, I grew up visiting Sweden every few years in the summertime; from childhood into adulthood.

I have many relatives in north Sweden, and have taken many road trips around the country. And what a beautiful country it is. When we drive around, it seems every turn you take brings you to another lake.

But Sweden offers much more than lakes – medieval castles and ruined abbeys, seaside fishing villages, open air museums, and archipelagos.

While my childhood visits to Sweden mainly brought me to Stockholm and the High Coast ( Höga Kusten ), I came to realize as an adult planning my own trips to Sweden that Swedish summer vacation ideas besides those.

Here recommendations for the best places to visit during your Sweden summer vacation.

Best Places to Visit in Sweden in Summer

Mölle is a small town in south Sweden, just over an hour north from Malmö.

It’s most known for its scenic harbour, having the brightest lighthouse in Scandinavia, and being close to the Naturum Kullaberg (Kullaberg Nature Reserve.)

It has beautiful seaside cliffs, rocky shores, quaint cottages, and a lot of outdoor adventure activities – boating, wildlife spotting and hiking.

Things to do in Mölle in summer

• Check out the Kollen Lighthouse , which is the brightest lighthouse in Scanidinavia. There is a small café inside the lighthouse
• Go dolphin and whale watching on a boat with Kullabergsguiderna
• Go hiking on trails in the Kullaberg Nature Reserve

The Grand Hotel Molle is in the centre of town and offers cozy rooms, a superb breakfast, help with planning activities

Gotland is a large island east of Sweden, and a very popular summer vacation destination for Swedes.

It has cobbled roads, colourful buildings, beautiful towns and cities, unique seaside rock formations, and sandy beaches.

The ferry to the main city on Gotland (Visby) is 3 hours, or you can fly there in 35 minutes from Stockholm.

Things to do in Gotland in summer

• Explore the medieval walled city of Visby. See the ruins of St. Karin and St. Nicolai which date back to the middle ages
• Take a day trip to Fårö, an island just north of Gotland
• Take in the breathtaking dramatic coastline along the Södra hällarna nature reserve, just south of Visby
• Visit beaches. Tofta beach is one of the best beaches on the island and is a short bus ride from Visby
• Explore the Lummelunda Cave , (said to be Sweden’s most amazing cave) just north of Visby

Find accommodations in Visby here

Uppsala is a beautiful city less than an hour’s drive from Stockholm. If you want to venture outside of the main city, Uppsala is makes a nice day-trip from Stockholm.

Uppsala has a medieval old town with a pagan Viking burial ground, churches and cathedrals from the medieval period, a beautiful botanic garden, and a castle.

Things to Do in Uppsala

• Marvel at the Uppsala Castle and Cathedral
• Spend time outdoors in the Carolinaparken
• Take a guided tour of Sala Silver Mine , 1 hour drive east of Uppsala
• Visit the Botaniska trädgården (Botanic Garden)

4. Sundsvall

Sundsvall is a coastal city roughly a 4 hour drive north of Stockholm.

Sundsvall is only an hour from the high coast, so we drive through here often to visit relatives in O-vik. However, Sundsvall is a very nice spot to spend a day or two.

While I wouldn’t say you need to make the 4-hour drive specifically just to see Sundsvall, I think it is worth a stop if you’re driving up to the High Coast or exploring more of Sweden.

Things to do in Sundsvall in summer:

• Enjoy the fountain in the Vängåvan (town centre of Sudsvall)
• Check out Gustav Adolf’s pink-coloured Church
• Walk through the Norra Berget friluftsmuseum (open air museum)
• Visit the Thai-inspired garden, which was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the visit of the then-king of Thailand to Sweden. (It’s so unusual to see these styles of buildings in Sweden!)

Gävle is an underrated town 2 hours north of Stockholm. I drove through here many times when I was younger before realizing that Gävle is a gem and is worth more than just a quick stop through.

When you look into all the things there are to do in Gävle, you realize that its an amazing town to visit year round – but especially in summer.

Things to do in Gävle in summer

• Walk through the narrow cobbled lanes of old Gävle, behind the Gavleån.
• Go on a bear safari at Wild Sweden (40 minutes west of Gävle.)
• Take a walk in the beautiful Boulognerskogen, which is a park within walking distance of the city centre. On-site, there’s a mini golf course, disc golf, and a kids playground.
• Visit museums – Sweden Prison Museum, and the Railway Museum
• Take a boat ride to Limön island in the Gävle archipelago
• Visit Kybacka Farm , which allows you to get up close to

Find places to stay overnight in Gävle here

Örebro is a beautiful city in central Sweden with the coolest castle.

It’s location about 2 hours west of Stockholm and on the river makes it a quaint place for enjoying the small town atmosphere, blooming flowers and Victorian buildings.

Things to do in Örebro

• Visit the Örebro castle and museum
• Eat dinner at the Svampen Skybar , which is a unique structure offering 360 panoramic views of the surrounding area
• See unique sculptures, and admire beautiful gardens at the Stadsparken
• Visit the Wadköping open-air museum that shows you what Örebro was like at the turn of the century

7. Padjelanta National Park

Padjelanta National Park is the largest national park in Sweden, and is located close to the Norwegian boarder in the far north.

It’s part of the Laponia area, and culturally significant for the Sami people. In fact, it gets its name from the Sami word  Badjelánnda, which means “higher area”. It’s a protected area that is also a UNSECO World Heritage Sight.

The Padjelanta trail is one a favourite among Swedish hikers. It’s a total of 60 km (37 miles) and a multi-day hike.

There are cabins along the way where you can sleep or pay a day fee to access the kitchen. There is a good 20 km (12.5 miles) between cabins, so hiking this trail isn’t for the faint of heart. You need to be in decent shape and up for a physical challenge.

Plan your Padjelanta hiking adventure here

Ödeshög is town in the central southern part of Sweden, in between Stockholm and Gothenburg.

It has less than 3,000 people but it also has a few little gems to see. Ödeshög is home to the fascinating ruined abbey, called Alvastra Monastery. The town is small, but a great little place to discover some of Sweden’s history.

Most of the things to do are within a 10-15 minute drive from the town of Ödeshög.

Things to do in and around Odeshög

• Step back into time at the Alvastra Monastery , which dates back to the 1100s. It’s completely free to visit
• Check out the Rök Runestone, which is one of the most famous rune stones in the world
• Go for a hike at the Omberg Ecopark just north of Ödeshög; enjoy beautiful views of the coastline of the lake
• Get some sweets at Narr Konfektyr, a candy factory
• Visit Ellen Keys Strand located right on the shoreline. It’s the home of Swedish author Ellen Keys

9. Åsnen National Park

Åsnen National Park (Nationalparken i Åsnen) is on an island surrounded by the Åsnen lake in southern Sweden.

It’s the perfect place to really getaway and experience nature. It’s 4600 acres (1 800 hectares) of unspoiled wilderness and is home to incredible nature, including Sweden’s rarest birds.

To get to Åsnen National Park, you park at the Åsnen designated parking lot and take a boat to the island. There are a few different entrances, but the main entrance is Sunnabron .

In Åsnen, you can find walking trails, or you can rent a bike at   Åshults Handelsbod to explore the island via cycling. In the summer, you book Viking adventures and games.

Visit the Åsen National Park website to plan your visit!

10. Karlsborg

Karsborg is a town on the Vanäs peninsula, on the coastline of the Vättern lake in southern Sweden.

It’s a scenic area with views of the lake, but has some fascinating Swedish history behind it too – museums, and most famously – the Karlsborg Fortress.

Things to do in Karlsborg

• Visit the fortress ( Festung Karlsborg ) which was built in the 1800s as a defence for Sweden during the Finish and Napoleonic wars
• Sit in a real pilot seat at the Aviation museum
• Take a boat ride on the Vättern lake
• Go hiking at Tiveden National Park, a woodland of 5,000 acres just north of Karlsborg

11. Bergslagen Forest 

Bergslagen Forest is just 2 hours from Stockholm and is known for having the highest moose population in all of Sweden.

It’s also home to other Swedish wildlife, such as beavers, lynx, the great grey owl, wolves and brown bears.

The area surrounding the forest- Bergslagen, is also a historic mining district.

Bergslagen Forest is popular for those wanting to do hiking, photography and bird-watching. If you do decide to venture here from Stockholm, remember to be considerate of the nature and wildlife of the forest.

The park offers a guide book with hikes of varying degrees of difficulty, which you can check out here .

12. Höga Kusten

Höga Kusten translates to High Coast and is world’s highest coastline . The land also continues to rise at a rate of approximately 8 millimetres per year.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and truly one of the most beautiful places in Sweden. This is where my family originates, and I have visited many times.

Above is a picture of the Höga Kusten suspension bridge – I always knew when we reached this bridge that we were almost ‘home’ in Örnsköldsvik.

Huga Kusten refers to an area along the coast, and it is full of national parks, as well as some towns and cities. The main towns include Örnsköldsvik, Kramfors, Härnösand, and Solleftea.

Near the bridge in the photo above, is the Hoga Kusten trail starting point, which you can read about here.

I also recommend spending some time at Skuleskogens National Park, which is famous for its large cliff walls.

Skuleberget in Höga Kusten

Skuleberget is a mountain located within the Höga Kusten (High Coast) and located at over 900 feet (200 metres) above sea lovel. It deserves a special mention because you absolutely shouldn’t miss it if you come far enough north to see it.

Skuleberget is doable with all ages and ability levels. We used to visit here often when we visited Sweden when I was a child.

While you can hike to the top, there is a chairlift that takes you to the top of the mountain in about 10 minutes.

Near the top, there are some walking trails, and a café where you can have fika . See visiting details here.

13. Göteborg (Gothenburg)

Göteborg (Gothenburg in English) is the second largest city in Sweden, and located on the western coast.

The city is famous for the invention of Volvos, and for being one of the world’s most sustainable cities.

Things to do in Gothenburg in summer

• Admire islands and rocky shorelines on a boat ride of the The Gothenburg archipelago
• Spend a day at Liseberg, a theme park with roller coasters and many other rides
• Relax in the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, which is one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe
• Walk through the Feskekörka, which is a historic fish market right on the harbour
• Bike along the Kattegattleden, which is the coast from Helsingborg to Gothenburg.
• Visit the Universeum science museum

Look for places to stay in Gothenburg here

14. Stockholm

Although its the capital and largest city in Sweden, I couldn’t leave out Stockholm when talking about Sweden in summer. Stockholm is a city on water and perfect for visiting in summertime.

I don’t have any family in Stockholm, but we usually made an effort to spend a couple days here during our many family trips to Sweden when I was growing up. It’s very family friendly , but a fun and romantic city for adults too.

Things to do in Stockholm in summer

• Walk through the Old Town ( Gamla Stan )
• Take a boat ride and view the beautiful city from the perspective of the water
• Spend a day at Tivoli (also known as Gröna Lund ), Stockholm’s amusement park right on the harbour
• Head to Djurgården, an island in Stockholm, to visit the maritime museum, Vasa Museum, as well as the Skansen open-air museum

Search Stockholm overnight accommodations here

15. Rättvik

Rättvik is in the province of Dollarna in central Sweden, which is famous for the Dala Horse, an iconic symbol of Sweden. Rättvik, along with other nearby towns are known for their large Midsummer celebrations.

Rättvik is located right on Lake Siljan – and in addition to many activities, has stunning views of the lake.

Here are some things to do in Rättvik and nearby in summer

• Get 360 views from the Vidablick utsiktstorn observation deck
• Try traditional Swedish tunnbröd at the Rättviks Flatbread Bakery
• Drive out to Falun (40 minutes from Rättvik) a small town important for its Swedish history, and home to the Falun mine (which is a UNESCO World Heritage site)
• Take a day trip to Avesta, which is known for having the largest Dalarna horse in the world, at 42 feet (13 metres) tall

Another Swedish Island, Öland is south east of Gotland. Gotland is much closer to mainland Sweden than Gotland, and has extensive history dating back to the Viking period.

Öland has a unique flavour of Swedish history. There are stone circles, medieval buildings, museums and art galleries,

The bridge to the island of Öland is called the Ölandsbron bridge, and it’s the largest bridge in Sweden. You can either drive, or take a bus.

Things to do on the island of Öland

• Visit Borgholm Castle, which is an impressive and well-preserved building dating back to the 13th century
• Admire Byrums raukar , which are impressive and strange looking rock formations along the shore
• Check out the Ismantorp Fortress ring fort
• See Swedish wildlife at the Trollskogen wildlife reserve
• Step into history at the Museum Himmelsberga, which preserves what daily life was like on Öland in the olden times

Grab a place to stay on Öland island here

Åre is located in central western Sweden, not far from the Norwegian boarder. It’s a sought after tourist destination in the winter, because of downhill skiing and other winter sports.

However, with its high mountains and vast lakes – it is not only one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden in summer, but it has offers quite a bit in terms of outdoor activities. Åre in the summer is buzzing with hikers, cyclists and people wanting to enjoy the ‘alp village’ of Scandinavia.

Here are some reasons you should visit Åre in summer:

• Go hiking and wildlife spotting in Naturreservatet Vålådalen (Vålådalen Nature Reserve)
• Take part in the Åre bike festival, which happens in July
• Visit Tännforsen, Sweden’s largest waterfall (just 20 minutes from the village of Åre)
• Enjoy home baked goods and homemade ice cream at one of the many cafés
• See other summer vacation ideas in Åre here

Check out places to stay near Åre here

18. Skanör-Falsterbo

Skanör-Falsterbo is located about 30 minutes south of Malmö, and is known for its sandy beach and colourful cottages on the coastline.

It makes a nice day trip from Malmö for those looking for some pristine nature and a quieter setting. (Although don’t be fooled – it can get busy here in the summertime.)

One of the things I really associate with Sweden, especially in summer, is the colourful wooden houses – and Skanör-Falsterbo is one of the good places to admire them, except they are more colourful than what you typically see.

The colourful cottages of Skanör-Falsterbo are actually bathing huts for those wanting to swim.

Things to do in Skanör-Falsterbo in summer:

• Have a beach day at the Skanör beach to see the quaint wooden cottages, and enjoy the sandy beach and views of the sea
• Visit the Falsterbo photography museum and the art gallery
• Learn about local history at the Falsterbo Museum
• Walk through the open-air Foteviken Museum, just 10 minutes from Skanör-Falsterbo

19. Vimmerby

Vimmerby is mainly known for being the hometown of the author of Pippi Longstocking, and the location for a theme park named after her, called Astrid Lindgren’s World.

Vimmerby is about 3 hours from both Stockholm and Gothenburg.

Things to do in Vimmerby in summer:

• See the Pippi Longstocking world come to life at Astrid Lindgren’s World. Families can get a day pass for 1 to 3 days
• Go on a moose safari at the Virum Älgpark
• Hike to the Runkesten, which is a large rock in the middle of a forest which many hikers struggle to find.
• Visit the childhood home of Astrid Lindgren, which inspired her famous stories. Book tickets at the Astrid Lindgren’s Näs website

20. Östersund

Östersund is a small city in central Sweden, about 3 hours west of the High Coast.

I used to see signs for it all the time when we used to visit family in Hoga Kusten. It wasn’t until I was an adult that it was worth making our way out here for a day trip. Östersund is pretty cool city, with some unique attractions related to Swedish history

Things to do in Östersund

• Climb the Frösötornet observation tower, and have fika from the Frösötornet café with a bird’s eye view of the surrounding land
• Check out the northernmost rune stone in Scandinavia, called Frösöstenen.
• Watch a glass-blowing demonstration at Storsjöhyttan
• Visit the Nationalmuseum Jamtli , which is an open-air museum showcasing history of the area. In the summer, they have people role-playing inhabitants from that time period
• Shop for Swedish souvenirs , and have fika at the Hamngatan 12 Café & Bistro

Malmö is Sweden’s third largest city (after Stockholm and Göteborg/Gothenberg), and is known for connecting with Copenhagen by a bridge.

Malmö has the largest shipyards in the world, museums, cuisine and nightlife. It has a mix of modern buildings and excitement, but also some old world charm as well.

Things to do in Malmö in summer

• Check out the Slottsmöllan, which is called Castle Mill (pictured above)
• Refresh in the Ribersborgs open-air bath on the harbour
• Spend time outdoors in Kungsparken, in downtown Malmö
• Check out the impressive Malmö Library
• Visit the bright red Malmö Castle

Europe’s Greenest City, because of its efforts since the 1960s to run entirely on renewable energy. As a result, half of the city is covered in lush forest.

Vaxsjö has a beautiful mix of nature, medieval buildings, and a descent shopping scene.

Things to do in Vaxjö in summer

• Admire the bright red Växjö Cathedral. Parts of it date back to the 1100s
• Enjoy gardens and some time outside in the beautiful Linnéparken.
• Get a tour Vartorps kvarn , which is a beautiful mill used for processing flour. There is also a playground on site for kids
• Get views of the Bergkvara Castle, a ruined castle on an island on the Bergkvara lake

23. Jukkasjärvi

Jukkasjärvi is a town in the far north of Sween known for hosting the famous Ice Hotel. While the ice hotel isn’t open during the summer, it is still a very popular place to visit for a summer vacation in Sweden.

The name Jukkasjärvi means “ meeting place by the water ” in the Sami language. In the summer, you can enjoy rafting and hiking, and experience the Midnight Sun at its best.

Apart of the hotel still stands in summer, and you can still see ice made with art.

Here are some other reasons to make your way to Jukkasjärvi in summer:

• Challenge yourself at the jungle park with high ropes and obstacle courses
• Take an ice-sculpting class (yes, available all summer long)
• Go white water rafting,
• Meet adorable reindeer calfs who are born in the month of May

Explore places to stay in Jukkasjarvi here

Things to Keep in Mind About Visiting Sweden in Summer

Midsummer is held in mid-June and is one of the largest holidays in Sweden after Christmas. Plan your trip so that you’re not flying in or out of Stockholm on Midsummer weekend (3rd weekend in June.)

Many parts of Sweden experience a midnight sun, which means the sun doesn’t set in the summertime. How strong of a midnight sun depends on how far north you go. Stockholm for example, has around 19 hours of daylight in the summer time. I recommend renting places that have black-out blinds, and bringing a sleep mask.

Summer in Sweden FAQ

Here are the most commonly asked questions about vacationing in Sweden in the summer

Is Sweden worth visiting in summer?

Sweden is absolutely worth visiting in summer. It’s the warmest time of year, and in some areas, you can experience the midnight sun. Sweden is covered in forests and lakes and there are many places to enjoy the outdoors.

Where do Swedes go on summer vacation?

Swedes often rent a cabin on a lake for summer vacation, and spend time hiking. Swedes very commonly visit places like Gotland,

Final Thoughts on Visiting Sweden in Summer

Sweden holds a special place in my heart, but I am certain you will love it too. As you can see from this article, there is so much to see in Sweden beyond Stockholm.

When I was planning my own trip to Sweden without my grandfather, my eyes were really opened to all the things there were to do in Sweden in summer. Our itinerary changed quite a few times because I kept changing my mind and there were a lot of difficult decisions.

These are some of the best places to visit in Sweden during summer, and I believe you can’t go through with any of them.

The Outdoor Lovers' Guide To Beautiful Places

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Europe , Featured , Seasons in Sweden , Sweden · April 14, 2024

15 Places To Visit During Summer in Sweden (2024)

Summer in Sweden is magical. It feels like an endless fairytale full of flower fields, late night sunsets, barbecues and wild adventures! From June to September the country wakes up again, the island shops open and everyone flocks either to the coast or their summer cabins for a month or so to simply take time off and enjoy the long summer days! So whether you are planning a summer trip to Sweden or living here and looking for some vacation inspiration, you are probably wondering where to even begin. There are so many amazing destinations to visit that you probably wont be able to fit them all into one trip. In fact,, something I can say for sure is that after one summer trip to Sweden you will be longing to take another!

I have lived in Sweden now for 4 summers and have spent each one of them exploring different areas of the country – from the more well-known West Coast to the lesser ventured High Coast . In this guide to the best places to visit during summer in Sweden I have outlined 15 of my favourite trips we have taken throughout the years. You can find more information on each destination in their own guides, and even more places to visit in Sweden on this page!

So without further ado, here are 15 of the best places to visit during summer in Sweden!

Please note that this post contains affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I make sure to only ever promote products and brands I have used and like, and that all links are to trusted websites.

15 Places to Visit in Sweden in Summer

Things to know before visiting sweden in summer, summer in sweden: an overview.

Käringön is a remote island and former fishing village on the coast of West Sweden . Just a short ferry ride from the island of Orust , this is a true summer paradise. What is usually a quiet island transforms in the summer as business start to open up people flock from all over Sweden to enjoy this piece of island life. Käringön is home to some amazing restaurants, swimming spots and is really the epitome of summer in Sweden. It’s a great place to spend a few nights or visit for the day as part of a West Sweden road trip ! Living in Gothenburg , this is one of my favourite places to take anyone that visits us during the summer. I recommend staying at least one night to get the full experience – watching the sunset over the cliffs, enjoying the atmosphere down by the guest harbour, trying the crepes from Crêperiet, and really just enjoying the summer vibes.

You can read more about Käringön in my island guide here!

Ystad and Österlen

Österlen is a small area along the southeast coast of Sweden. It is a bit of an underrated destination – known mostly for its beaches, walking tracks, small villages and farm shops. At the beginning of July you can visit Österlen Kyddor for a “lavender morning” where you have a champagne breakfast, listen to a talk on growing and caring for lavender, pick your own lavender, and then finish it off with their award-winning lavender ice cream! Otherwise, there is the Skåneleden which runs through Stenhuvud’s National Park. Here you can do the whole multiple-day hike or simply walk a small section down to the sandy beaches that feel like they should be in the Caribbean. Spend the day walking around Ystad, or visit Ystad’s Saltsjöbad for a spa weekend! Have lunch at many of the local cafes spread out around the landscape, or visit one of the cosy restaurants for fresh-made, stone oven-baked pizza.

If this sounds like the place for you then you can read my full guide to visiting Österlen in the summer here!

Höga Kusten

The Höga Kusten is a beautiful area of Northern Sweden known for its dramatic coastline and impressive nature forged by glaciers in the Jurassic period. This area is the only UNESCO world heritage site in Sweden and is one of the best places to spend the summer in Sweden if you are interested in nature, hiking and unique landscapes. Unlike other areas in Sweden, the High Coast remains semi-remote. Even in the peak of summer you will find the fishing villages, hikes and islands empty in comparison to their counterparts in places like the Stockholm or Gothenburg archipelago .

We are lucky enough to have a summer house just north of the High Coast which we visit every summer. Every year I am taken back by the scale of this area of Sweden. The beautiful forest covered mountains contrasting with the blue sea, the geological wonders, and the most picturesque small towns. If anything, I recommend taking the ferry out to the nearby islands of Trysunda or Ulvön, hiking the 128.6 km long Höga Kusten Trail (or parts of it), and sleeping in unqiue wind shelters like The Tree Cube . For those who want a coastal holiday, you can head to Smitingen beach or Paradiset Adventure Bath for a swim!

Want to know more? Here are 12 places to visit on Sweden’s High Coast

Stockholm Archipelago

Stockholm archipelago is made up of around 30,000 islands, both uninhabited and those covered with flourishing villages. The Stockholm archipelago is one of the most popular places to visit in Summer in Sweden and it is an easy place to both travel around by ferry, but also by your own boat. The islands are known for their beautiful mix of nature and the sea, with most of the islands in the archipelago covered in rich forest land. Once on the islands, you can do one of the many hikes , visit the famous Landsort lighthouse at the southern tip of the archipelago, or hire a kayak and spend the night out on an island .

Gothenburg Archipelago

The Gothenburg Archipelago is a lively summer destination, only a stones throw away from the city centre, the islands make for perfect day trips of a Swedish summer island hopping adventure! In the southern archipelago, you will find the car-free islands, known for their atmospheric fishing villages and pristine nature. In the north, you will find the most bustling islands, with locals living there all year round there are lots of events to enjoy. The best thing about the Gothenburg archipelago is that its very easy to access without need of a car! Base yourself in Gothenburg and take day trips to the different islands each day. I can recommend Vrångö , Strysö , and Vinga for first-timers!

If you want to know more make sure to read my fill guide to the islands in the Gothenburg Archipelago !

Smögen is another very popular island of Sweden’s West Coast , known for its amazing restaurants serving fresh seafood, beautiful swimming spots, and island life. Walking through the streets of Smögen feels a little like the Swedish version of Venice as you duck under archways to discover little alleys that lead down to the water.

There is more than enough to do in Smögen for a week-long summer holiday in Sweden. You can take the ferry to the nearby island of Hållö to explore the lighthouse, spend the day relaxing at Smögens Hafvsbad spa, walk a section of the Kuststigen across the water, or take a day trip to Bohus Malmön . Smögen Hamn (or Smögen’s harbour) is one of the most well-known sights on the West Coast of Sweden, easily recognisable for its colourful houses lining the little inlet. Here is where you will find the best restaurants and small boutiques that pop up throughout the summer!

You can read more about spending the weekend in Smögen here ! Otherwise, below are some day trips you can take from the small island!

• West Sweden Map

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In this map and guide to West Sweden you will find over 300 tips for places to visit in and around the region. These are places I have visited and personally recommend – some hidden gems and a few more well known spots!

Mölle and Kullaberg Nature Reserve

Mölle is a beautiful coastal village in southern Sweden, near the dramatic Kullaberg Nature Reserve . It is a popular weekend getaway for those in Southern Sweden with great camping spots, close to many beaches and cosy summer restaurants. You can spend the days hiking around Kullaberg Nature Reserve, on a porpoise safari, or relaxing by the ocean, and the evenings in the town enjoying the local restaurants. Mölle is one of the most picturesque towns in Sweden and walking around the streets on a warm summer day is an activity in itself!

If you want to read more about what to do in Mölle and Kullaberg Nature Reserve you can see my full post here!

Throughout the year Halmstad is a thriving student city, but in the summer it transforms into a great summer city. Located so close to one of Sweden’s best beaches, Tylösand, Halmstad is one of the best places to spend summer in Sweden if you are looking for a resort-type holiday. Within the city, you can visit Halmstads Slott, take a drink on the castle wall, or visit the art museum. From the big harbour, you can take a ferry for a day trip to Denmark, or take a walk around the coast towards Västra Stranden and Slaget vid Nissan.

Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and one of the best places to visit during the summer. The only way out to the island is by ferry which leaves from several points along the east coast of sweden. The medieval town of Visby is known for its big ruins and majestic buildings, while the rest of the island has some great beaches, caves, and unusual limestone rock structures. While on the island make sure to visit Blue Lagoon for a swim, or head out to Fårö on the ferry and discover the magical uninhabited nature. In August they hold a Medieval week every year when people flock from all over Sweden to participate in events and walk around medieval markets selling unique foods and crafts.

Dalsland is a Swedish summer dream destination for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. In this landscape, you will find hundreds of lakes, forests, and beautiful hikes to enjoy. One of the filming locations for the Swedish Classic Ronja Röversdotter, you can trace the film through some incredible locations on the Vandra i Ronjaland path. Alternatively, if you want a really unique experience this summer, hire a canoe and paddle down the Dalsland Canal , or take the tourist boat across the 150 year old aquaduct. This is known as one of the best areas for canoeing in Europe and after taking a three day trip there I can understand why! The combination of raw nature and picturesque locks make it a really special destination.

If you want to know more about visiting this beautiful region, make sure to read my 2 day itinerary for Dalsland or guide to canoeing along the Dalsland lake system . Both of these trips are in my top 5 for long weekends in Sweden – both great for different reasons but magical in their own way.

Öland is Sweden’s second-largest island, located on the east coast. It is a natural wonderland with roads that run through meadows connecting cosy little villages, with 500km of coastline. If you are into cycling then this is one of the best places to visit in summer in Sweden, with many many cycling paths that pass by some of Ölands biggest attractions including Borgholms Slott and Eketorp Fort. After spending just a few days on Öland you will be longing to return and bask again in the magical summer sun. Öland is covered in some great farm shops, and cafes in unusual places as well as castles and medieval ruins.

Koster Havet

Koster Havet is one of the most unique areas of coastline in Sweden, a national park famous for its tropical reefs and abundance of sea life. You can spend the days kayaking around the archipelago, fishing for crabs or exploring the landscape by boat. Other than enjoying the sea, Koster Havet is also a fabulous place for hiking and cycling and the nearby town of Strömstad a great summer city to explore.

Known as Sweden’s best summer city, Västervik, on the South East coast of Sweden, is the perfect summer destination. The town is thriving during the summer months, with restaurants and shops to explore and an old wooden part of town. During the days, you can head to Gränsö Slott for a walk and a swim, or out to one of the islands in the Tjust Archipelago such as Idö . Nearby, you have the town of Vimmerby where you will find Astrid Lindgren’s Värld, a theme park created around the stories of the classic Swedish author. Take the Smalspårs Railway to Hultsfred and enjoy a swim or cycle further through the countryside on the trolley cart. This is the perfect family getaway with loads to do nearby and a great city to base yourself in.

Sarek National Park

Sarek National Park is one of the most striking landscapes in Sweden . Located in the north above the arctic circle, summer is the only time this area of Sweden is really accessible. It is home to some of Sweden’s highest mountains (over 2000m high), with rivers and valleys formed by the glaciers when they melted after the ice age. There are actually still over 100 glaciers still in Sarek National Park today. This holiday is not your traditional summer in Sweden, with much cooler temperatures. It is something I would recommend only to seasoned hikers who have experience hiking in tough terrain for 7 or more days! June to August is the optimal time for summer in Sarek and the best time for cloudberry picking, fishing, and hiking.

Hiking the Kungsleden

The Kungsleden is one of the most popular hikes in Sweden in the summer. Located in the north, the most popular section of the Kungsleden runs from Abisko to Nikkaluokta. It is a total of 108km long and it is recommended to take 5 – 7 days depending on how far you walk! Along the hiking trail, there is the option to camp or stay overnight in a mountain hut run by the Svenska Turistföreningen (Swedish Tourist Association). The hike offers amazing mountain views, nature, and passes by Sweden’s tallest mountain – Kebnekaise!

What is Sweden like in the summer?

The temperature in Sweden varies depending on where in the country you are. Down in Skåne, in the South of Sweden, temperatures are an average of 25 degrees. In Gothenburg and on the West Coast it is around 22 degrees on average, whilst in the North near Höga Kusten, you get daily temperatures around 20 degrees.

How many hours of daylight in Sweden in summer?

Sweden is an incredibly tall country so again, this is not a simple question to answer! In the south of Sweden ( Skåne / Malmö) the sun rises around 04.30 am and sets around 10 pm in the peak of summer which means about 17.5 hours of sunlight a day. A little further north in areas like Gothenburg and Stockholm the days are slightly longer, averaging about 18.5 hours of sunlight. Whilst in the North of Sweden there is such a thing as “Midnight sun” in which the sun never sets and there are 24 hours of sunlight a day. This is most common in areas north of the arctic circle, such as Jokkmokk.

Summer is by far the best time of year to visit Sweden. While the weather can be unpredictable, this doesn’t take away from all the magical destinations there are to explore! From Österlen in the south, to Sarek and the Kungsleden in the North, there is something special for everyone! To end this guide, I would like to add that these are just a few top picks of places to visit in Sweden during summer and there are in fact so many other beautiful destinations to explore! Here, you can find all my guides to Sweden , or be inspired by these below:

• 8 Unique Sweden Itineraries
• 10 Day Scandinavia Itinerary
• 7 Day West Sweden Road Trip
• Österlen and Ystad
• Places to Visit on Sweden’s Höga Kusten
• Stockholm City Guide
• A Weekend in Dalsland – 2 Day Itinerary
• Gothenburg Archipelago Guide

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September 16, 2023 at 5:20 pm

We are heading to Sweden from May 21-28, 2024. When you refer to the summer months would this include the third week of May?

September 18, 2023 at 11:18 am

Generally I mean June to August but the third week of May can also be a lovely time of year to visit all of these places.

November 25, 2023 at 12:14 am

I’m headed to Sweden in August 2024 for 8_10 days. Can you reccomend a company that has guided tours? Very happy I’ve found this website, heaps of information. Thank you

December 4, 2023 at 10:12 am

I am glad you have found everything helpful! Sorry I don’t know many tour companies – I have done quite a few days trips through Get Your Guide which I can recommend though!

February 8, 2024 at 10:13 am

Great tips for visiting Sweden thank you 🙂 If we fly into Gothenburg and plan to visit the archipelago, Smogen and Lysekil, which area would you recommend for us to stay as a base?

February 12, 2024 at 6:27 am

Thanks! I would recommend staying a few nights in Gothenburg if you want to visit the Gothenburg archipelago / Marstrand etc. and then staying a few nights further up the coast. If you plan on hiring a car then anywhere around Smögen/ Lysekil is great, otherwise Hunnebostrand, Smögen, Kungshamn, Lysekil and even Uddevalla have goo bus connections.

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Top 10 summer tips

Here are 10 tips for enjoying summer in sweden – from south to north., 1. swim in sustainable malmö.

Summer in Sweden can be enjoyed on southern city of Malmö’s own Copacabana. Here, the sandy beach of ‘Ribban’, Ribersborg, stretches for about 2.5 kilometres and is surrounded by green areas.

Neighbouring Västra Hamnen (Western Harbour) is a Swedish summer hot spot as well, boasting wooden swim decks all along the boardwalk. This sustainable district – a five-minute bike ride from the city centre – grew out of a housing exhibition, Bo01, and is filled with interesting architecture. Its restaurants and cafés burst with life during the summer.

The City of Malmö has plenty of green sightseeing tips .

2. Stay in a cottage

Today, there are around 600,000 privately owned holiday homes in Sweden. Some of the most popular summer house destinations can be found in the provinces of Småland, Skåne and Öland, but there are cottages for rent all over the country.

This summer treat is not just embraced by Swedes – the Dutch, Danes, Norwegians and Germans are among those who have also discovered the charm of the Swedish sommarstuga (summer cottage). If you want to spend summer like a Swede, make sure to spend a few nights in a cottage.

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4. Go west!

Swedish summer is normally festival season. Gothenburg's Way Out West, or WOW , is the country's most popular music festival, with a record 55,000 visitors in 2023.

Staged in the park of Slottsskogen, this festival brings top-notch acts, all done with a sustainable touch. Since 2012, WOW only serves vegetarian food – a decision that reduced the festival’s carbon footprint with 20 per cent. SJ, a state-owned railway company, contributes to the cause of sustainability with a special festival train from Stockholm.

If you happen to be at the festival, we suggest you check out a few other spots in Gothenburg .

5. Explore the archipelago

Sweden has tens of thousands of lakes and islands – and the archipelagos of Gothenburg and Stockholm are just a short ride from the city centres. There’s always the possibility of going boating, canoeing or kayaking, something that Swedes really make use of. Allemansrätten , the right of public access , makes it easy to explore small islands and inlets on your own. And there are boats in abundance, with Sweden being the world’s fourth most pleasure boat-dense country.

Limestone formations like these, raukar, are natural landmarks on the islands of Öland and Gotland. Photo: Jerker Andersson/imagebank.sweden.se

Summer in Sweden equals a lot of festivals. Here, the Way Out West festival in Gothenburg. Photo: Nora Lorek/Rockfoto/imagebank.sweden.se

Kayaking in the west coast archipelago. Photo: Henrik Trygg/imagebank.sweden.se

Summer time is ice cream time! Photo: Ulf Lundin/imagebank.sweden.se

The stunning views over Stockholm from Skinnarviksberget. Photo: Susanne Walström/imagebank.sweden.se

Flea market, Swedish-style. Photo: Aline Lessner/imagebank.sweden.se

Camping near Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain. Photo: Tomas Utsi/imagebank.sweden.se

6. Take a dip, or just hang out in Stockholm

Stockholm, the ‘Venice of the North’, is situated on 14 islands, where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. The city has as many as 30 official beaches for swimming, but many more unofficial ones. Summertime, people tend to take a dip wherever they feel like it – Lake Mälaren has been clean enough to fish and swim in since 1971. Here's a good guide to swimming in and around the Swedish capital of Stockholm .

One of many other tips for the Swedish capital’s bright summer nights is to climb the rocky hill of Skinnarviksberget on Södermalm for stellar views.

7. Pick blueberries in Dalarna

Dalarna is perhaps the quintessential Swedish province, with its red wooden cottages, deep green forests and Dala horses. The red colour of the houses, falu rödfärg , consists of ochre pigment from the copper mine in Falun  mixed with linseed oil. Using a few more colours, the famous painters of  Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn  captured the spirit of Dalarna.

This region is perfect for immersing yourself in traditional Midsummer celebrations or listening to Swedish folk music. When you need a break from all of this loud Swedishness, head into the woods for some quiet blueberry picking.

8. Bargain at flea markets

If you drive through the Swedish countryside, you’re bound to come across a few loppis signs. Loppis , or loppmarknad , means flea market or jumble sale and could very well be the most important word to know on a Swedish road trip.

Follow one of those signs for a chance to hang out with the locals and check out their (soon to be former) belongings in garden or garage sales. Items may include anything from treasures to trash, but that’s all part of the flea market charm, right? Going to loppisar is something of a Swedish folk sport.

The High Coast Bridge

9. go hiking by höga kusten.

Höga Kusten, ‘the high coast’, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Its hilly scenery with high islands, steep shores, smooth cliffs and deep inlets is the highest land uplift in the world. Formed during the Ice Age, it is literally rising from the sea.

So is the lighthouse hostel of Högbonden, an interesting place to stay the night. Höga kusten is popular among hikers, who take advantage of the right of public access. The area is also home to Sweden’s arguably weirdest food, surströmming , fermented or sour herring.

Midnight sun marvels

10. catch the midnight sun.

The further north you go, the brighter the Swedish summer nights. If you go all the way up above the Arctic Circle, the sun doesn’t set at all for a couple of months in the summer. Summer temperatures in the sparsely populated north of Sweden are often a comfortable 15°C, but can actually reach up to 30°C on occasion.

Tip: Go trekking above the tree line – there are no mosquitoes up there, and the view is better, too. You can stay in cabins along the road or bring a tent. If you’ve already experienced the northern lights, why not catch the midnight sun?

Last updated on 12 June 2024

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As the gentle embrace of spring makes way for the vibrant hues of summer, Sweden undergoes a remarkable transformation. The Swedish summer is not merely a season; it's a celebration of life, light, and the breathtaking beauty that graces this Nordic paradise.

Picture-perfect landscapes come alive during summer, adorned with lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and tranquil lakes reflecting the endless blue sky. The days stretch longer, allowing for immersive experiences and the chance to witness the Midnight Sun's captivating phenomenon in the country's northern reaches.

When is summer in Sweden?

Summer in Sweden typically spans from June to August. According to The Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI), summer arrives on the first day of five with a temperature above +10°C. However, the exact timing and weather can vary depending on the region within Sweden. For an up-to-date report on how far summer has come in Sweden, look at SMHI 's season arrival map .

Weather in Sweden – average summer temperatures

• Kiruna, northern Sweden: +5°C to +14°C in June, +8°C to +18°C in July, +6°C to +16°C in August.
• Stockholm, middle Sweden: +11°C to +20°C in June, +14°C to +23°C in July, +13°C to +21°C in August.
• Malmö, southern Sweden: +9°C to +19°C in June, +12°C to +23°C in July, +12°C to +21°C in August.

Source: timeanddate.com

Biking with a view

97% of Sweden consists of nature, meaning that outdoor adventures are always close at hand.

Photo : Patrik Svedberg/imagebank.sweden.se

Photo : Roger Borgelid/imagebank.sweden.se

Lurö archipelago

Photo : Doris Beling/Folio/imagebank.sweden.se

Why is summer the best season to visit Sweden?

Summer in Sweden is a time of boundless beauty and adventure, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, and captivating archipelagos . The long daylight hours transform the country into a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Furthermore, the hiking trails become a gateway to awe-inspiring vistas for those seeking a deeper connection with Sweden's natural wonders. Whether it's exploring the mystical forests of Dalarna, trekking the scenic King’s Trail (Kungsleden), or simply strolling through the meadows adorned with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, the Swedish summer invites you to immerse yourself in the splendour of the great outdoors.

Moreover, summer in Sweden is a feast for the senses, with abundant culinary delights to tempt every palate. From indulging in freshly caught seafood at seaside restaurants to savouring traditional Swedish fika treats at charming cafes, the summer season offers a delicious taste of Swedish gastronomy.

For those passionate about culture and history, summer provides ample opportunities to delve into Sweden's rich heritage. From visiting medieval castles and Viking ruins to enjoying outdoor concerts and theatre performances, many cultural experiences enrich your summer itinerary.

Whether exploring the historical charm of Stockholm's Old Town, embarking on a kayak adventure in the archipelago, or simply relishing a moment of serenity by a tranquil lake, the Swedish summer promises an unforgettable journey into nature's embrace.

Midnight sun

Fishing in the midnight sun in Jämtland Härjedalen.

Photo : Sandra Lee Pettersson

Music festival, Way Out West

Photo : Rodrigo Rivas Ruiz/imagebank.sweden.se

Crayfish party

Photo : Anna Hållams/imagebank.sweden.se

Midsummer in Dalarna

Photo : Per Bifrost/imagebank.sweden.se

Summer in Sweden – 3 things to do

Experience the Midnight Sun During the summer months, visitors can marvel at the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun , where the sun remains visible around the clock in Sweden's northern regions. This natural spectacle offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of endless daylight and the surreal atmosphere it creates.

Indulge in music and festivals Swedish summer comes alive with various cultural events and music festivals . From the renowned Sweden Rock Festival in Sölvesborg to the lively Dansbandsveckan in Malung and the eclectic Way Out West Festival in Gothenburg, there's something for every music lover to enjoy. Additionally, Malmöfestivalen in Malmö offers diverse music, arts, and culinary delights, transforming the city into a bustling hub of creativity and celebration.

Take part in a Swedish crayfish party (kräftskiva) One of Sweden's beloved summer traditions is the ‘kräftskiva’ , a festive crayfish party that brings people together in August to celebrate the season. With its origins dating back a century, a crayfish party features delicious crayfish and a variety of side dishes from guests in a communal custom known as 'knytkalas' or 'knytis'.

Summer 2024 highlights

6 June: Swedish National Day is marked by various festivities across the country, including flag ceremonies, parades, concerts, and traditional folk dances.

21 June: Midsummer Eve in Sweden is a cherished celebration, marking the arrival of the summer solstice. Families and friends gather around maypoles adorned with flowers, dancing traditional folk dances and indulging in delicious delicacies like herring and strawberries.

7-8 August: The crayfish premiere (kräftpremiär). Nowadays, no specific date is set for the start of the crayfish season. However, the crayfish party season traditionally began on the first Wednesday of August, in line with the historic ban on crayfish fishing between November and August 7th.

15 August: The official fermented herring premiere is celebrated in restaurants nationwide, marking the start of the ‘surströmming’ season.

28 August: The day of the Swedish meatballs (Köttbullens dag). Swedes unite to honour the iconic Swedish meatballs on this particular day, indulging in this delicious dish served with lingonberry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes.

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A quick guide to summer in Sweden and the best places to visit

Many of us dream of European vacations filled with sun, history, and unique landscapes. While the typical journey might take you to the crowded streets of Paris or the sunny beaches of Spain , I propose a different direction: head north to Sweden for your summer vacation.

It might seem unconventional at first, but Sweden offers a blend of beauty, adventure, and cultural richness that's hard to match. Read on and discover why Sweden should be your next summer destination, whether you're into relaxing beach holidays or seeking adrenaline-filled experiences.

What to expect from a summer vacation in Sweden

For many, Sweden may conjure images of IKEA, the Northern Lights , or perhaps the bustling streets of Stockholm. But for me, and soon for you, Sweden is about endless summer days, the allure of the midnight sun, and adventures in untouched wilderness. Every year, I'm on the lookout for the perfect vacation spot, and Sweden consistently captures my imagination.

Situated in the heart of Scandinavia, Sweden shares its borders with Norway, and Finland, and is a bridge away from Denmark, making it a nexus of Nordic culture and landscapes. The country stretches from the sandy beaches of the south to the mountainous regions of the north, offering an array of experiences that cater to every type of traveler.

Whether you're planning a solo adventure, a family getaway, or a lengthy exploration, Sweden's diversity ensures that you can enjoy sun and warmth or cooler summer evenings, all within the same country.

Things to do on vacation in Sweden

Sweden's variety is its strength, catering to all preferences. From idyllic family vacations in the tranquil province of Skåne to rugged backpacking in the northern wilderness, Sweden has it all. Cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg are perfect for those seeking culture and great food.

For a more laid-back experience, consider a cabin by one of the many lakes, where relaxation and nature go hand in hand. For the adventurous, the Swedish landscape offers hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking through its vast natural reserves. Here are some of my favorite things to do:

• Explore National Parks and nature reserves: Sweden is a haven for nature enthusiasts. National parks like Abisko in the north offer unparalleled hiking opportunities and encounters with pristine natural beauty.
• Hiking and biking: With well-marked trails and routes, exploring Sweden's landscapes by foot or bike caters to all fitness levels.
• Water sports and relaxation by the lakes: Sweden's lakes, including the expansive Lake Vänern, offer opportunities for sailing, fishing, or simply unwinding by the water.
• Cultural riches and summer festivals: Sweden's historical sites, museums, and summer music festivals provide a deep dive into the country's heritage and contemporary cultural scene.
• Gastronomic delights: The Swedish summer is an ideal time to indulge in the local cuisine. Take a culinary bike tour or visit local producers to savor Sweden's flavors. Some of my favorite Swedish delicacies include meatballs and fried herring.

Summer vacation in Sweden with kids

Sweden is an exceptional destination for families. From educational outings to amusement parks like Astrid Lindgren's World, there's no shortage of activities that promise fun for all ages. The country's clean beaches and outdoor attractions ensure a memorable and enriching holiday for the entire family.

Family-friendly activities and amusement parks

Plan a visit to Astrid Lindgren's World in Vimmerby, Småland, where children can meet characters like Pippi Longstocking. Consider an elk safari in the southern forests or a day at Kolmården Zoo. If you're near Gothenburg and looking for thrills, don't miss Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park, offering rides and attractions for all ages.

Family-friendly beaches and outdoor activities

Sweden boasts beautiful coastlines and beaches, especially in the south, reminiscent of gentle summers. The shores near Helsingborg and Malmö, with their soft sand and clean water, are perfect for a relaxing day out with the family. Kayak rentals and beach activities are widely available, making southern Sweden incredibly family-friendly.

City breaks for families in Sweden

For city-based family vacation, Swedish cities offer a wealth of attractions. Stockholm is not only a cultural and historical hub but also home to Djurgården, an island filled with amusement parks and museums that children adore, such as Junibacken, dedicated to Astrid Lindgren's stories. Sweden caters to all tastes and ages, with activities ranging from mountain climbing and cycling to farm visits and canoeing. Many places also offer child-friendly guided tours and events.

How this guide was created

As a frequent flyer and global traveler, I find Scandinavia, especially Sweden, to be my favorite destination. Its versatility offers incredible experiences year-round. This guide, powered by insights and tools from KAYAK, aims to enchant you with Sweden's breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and serene beauty, inviting you to explore its wonders.

For more summer vacation inspiration check out this guide to summer vacation planning and destinations .

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Home » Travel Guides » Sweden » 15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden

Sweden may well be the land that gave the world IKEA and iconic meatballs, but sadly it is often neglected on the traveler trail around Europe, and many visitors choose not to visit this corner of Northern Europe, eschewing it in favor of locations further south.

If you do choose to venture to the north however, you will find sun dappled leafy towns by the water’s edge, fun filled modern cities, and winter wonderlands with a few reindeer thrown in if you make it all the way to Swedish Lapland. Whatever you choose however, know that you are in one of the cleanest, most efficient, and some would say friendliest countries in the world.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Sweden :

1. Stockholm

Stockholm is widely said to be one of the most picturesque and user friendly cities in Europe, and has an abundance of clean air that blows in off the Baltic Sea, as well as wide open spaces, woodlands, and parks.

There is also a strong dedication to history in Stockholm that can be felt when you venture to the old town centre of Gamla Stan where you will find historic buildings as well as dainty cobbled streets that wind around the island and give visitors the chance to explore on foot.

For some maritime history, head down to the harbor to see the Vasa, a warship that dates from the 17th century and escaped a watery end after being preserved and restored. Make the most of Sweden’s open green spaces with a trip to the central park of Kungsträdgården where locals go to relax and enjoy the splendid scenery.

Perhaps best known for the books and films based in the area that chart the story of fictional detective Kurt Wallander, and written by Swedish author Henning Mankell, Ystad doesn’t disappoint in real life for those who have only experienced it on paper.

The city now offers tours for fans of the books who can visit areas mentioned in the famous tomes, or you can choose to explore on your own, and take in the amazing architecture of the region firsthand.

Many of the buildings here are made from wood giving Ystad an old world feel, and there are quaint cafes, eateries, and boutiques to uncover as you wander around this picturesque town.

3. Marstrand

The city of Marstrand on the west coast is probably about as glitzy as it gets in Sweden, and is known as something of a French Riviera style setting where, historically, royalty and films stars have come to get away from it all.

The area is also very popular as a sailing destination so if you want to get out on the glassy Baltic water then this is the place to visit. One of the best ways to take in the city is to climb to the top of Carlsten Fortress from which you can stare out across the water and take in the natural wonders that Sweden has in spades.

Marstrand is also famous for its spas which are legendary in Sweden, so pamper yourself with some Swedish massage if you want to get the full opulent experience that draws the rich and famous to this city.

4. Vadstena

From its home beside a lake, Vadstena was a place of great importance to the royal family of Sweden, and relics of this era remain including the imposing Vadstena Castle that dates from the 16th century and comes complete with an old school moat to protect the royals within.

Vadstena is also known for its monastic relics, including a stunning abbey that was built in the 14th century by the first female saint of Sweden.

There are other places of historical and religious importance dotted around the city, and there is a strong calming and romantic atmosphere here, with rose covered houses and maze like streets for visitors to explore at their own pace.

5. Jönköping/Lake Vättern

Come to this picturesque town, which made its fortune manufacturing and selling matchsticks, for a peaceful and calm retreat from the world, and as a jumping off point to go and visit the nearby Lake Vättern, the second largest lake in Sweden, and upon whose shores the town rests.

The lake is often said to resemble the shape of a finger and there are beautiful views to be found over the clear and glassy surface.

For those feeling energetic, there are nature trails around the lake in order for you to make the most of the outdoor setting and admire the local wildlife and plant life.

6. Kosterhavet

Boasting the first Marine National Park to be inaugurated in Sweden, Kosterhavet is located over the Koster Islands, and is a paradise for those who enjoy the great outdoors and who want to enjoy the many marine pursuits on offer here.

For those looking for adventure there are kayaking and boating opportunities, or you can keep it simple and explore the beaches and rocky terrain that leads you to caves, coves, and outcrops next to the bracing sea. Biking is a common pastime on the islands and you can follow tours of all the places of interest or just go it alone.

As you are by the sea, there is an abundance of fresh seafood to enjoy including locally caught lobster.

7. Gothenburg

Known as the capital of West Sweden, Gothenburg is a charming city filled with cobbled streets that are perfect for roaming around on foot in search of hidden treasures, as well as parks and outdoor spaces, including the Botanical Gardens that will teach you all about indigenous plants and animals.

The city also boasts a wealth of local markets if you fancy trying some of the local produce, or you can dine in one of the upscale restaurants that are putting Swedish food on the culinary map thanks to the number of Michelin starred eateries in Gothenburg.

The city also has a great cafe culture if you want to try the local coffee and Swedish pastries like sweet buns and watch the world go by.

Said to date back to the Middle Ages, Visby is a port and was once a place of great trade importance leading to a protective wall, named the Ringmuren, being built to protect the city from marauders, and this still stands today along with other historical relics in the city that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As well as being a historical gem in Sweden’s crown, Visby is well known on the arts scene, as many famous Swedish artists have chosen to call the port home thanks to its stunning light, and if you visit during the summer months you can tour many of the artists’ homes and studios which are open to visitors, usually in June.

• 9.  The Stockholm Archipelago

Sweden is hardly a frenetic country, but if you still find that you want to get out of the bigger cities and take things even slower, then you can head out to one or several of the 30,000 islands that exist in the Stockholm archipelago.

One of the best ways to get around and witness the stunning and rugged islands is to take one of the old steam boats that still operate in the region. Many have planned day tours with meals included or you can charter a private boat and island hop to your heart’s content, taking in the wild scenery and private atmosphere, as only around 1,000 of the islands in the archipelago are actually inhabited.

Known for being the biggest city in the county of Skåne, Malmö has steadily been making a name for itself in recent years as an arts and cultural hub in Sweden.

Alongside many eclectic and up and coming new galleries, this city also has a strong commitment to ecological causes and fair-trade products, having been made the first Fair-trade City in the country. Many of the restaurants here have a farm-to-table philosophy with an emphasis on organic produce and ingredients, so any serious foodies should not miss the fine dining on offer here.

There is also an emerging nightlife scene in Malmö with many venues providing live music or other pop up events.

• 11.  Jukkasjärvi/ICEHOTEL

If you enjoy winter then you really should consider visiting the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärv, which holds the title as the largest hotel in the world to be constructed from snow and ice.

The hotel usually stands from approximately December-March, after which it becomes too warm for the hotel to be sustainable and so it is left to melt, so if you want to check it out or just go for a drink at the ice bar then you will need to come over the winter period.

Aside from the actual hotel location there are a whole host of activities available at the ICEHOTEL such as ice fishing, dog sledging, and excursions into the wilderness on snowmobiles.

• 12.  Sundsvall

Sundsvall is often called ‘Stone City’, as the previous town was razed to the ground in the 1800s due to a fire. To avoid such an occurrence happening again all the fire damaged building were rebuilt using stone instead of wood, and as such this makes for a more unusual sight as opposed to many other traditional Swedish buildings, particularly those on the coast.

As such many visitors come to Sundsvall to witness the story and the architecture first hand, and after you have seen the mighty stone houses, there is also a famous museum dedicated to local artists and featuring paintings, sculptures, and art installations.

• 13.  Dalarna

The province of Dalarna is well worth a visit for its magnificent ski resorts and the tranquil but mighty Lake Siljan.

Located near the border with Norway, Dalarna is made up of forest, meadows, and wide open spaces, and many of the towns in the province are to be found lakeside, with favorites for travelers both domestic and international being the towns of Mora or Leksand.

If you fancy some winter fun then the resort of Idre, set in the mountains shared by Norway, offers premium skiing and snowboarding, or you can trek in the area on one of the many hiking trails.

• 14.  Lake Mälaren

To the west of Stockholm you will find Lake Mälaren, a vast waterway that is home to Birka Island that sits within the lake and provides a history lesson to anyone interested in the Viking period of Sweden.

The lake’s main city is named Västerås and is known as a bustling city that is lined with beaches, that also has a wealth of historical relics that date from the days of the conquering Vikings.

You can cruise around the lake by boat or simply hop from one location to the other using the main ferries that service the area.

• 15.  Swedish Lapland

If you want to take the road less travelled then Swedish Lapland may just be the perfect place to get away from it all. Located in the Arctic Circle, and known as the home of the Sami or indigenous people who live in the area, Swedish Lapland is made up of a clutch of towns as well as forest and wild but picturesque scrubland.

Visitors can travel to the northernmost town in Sweden, Kiruna, to visit the adjacent national parks that stud the area and allow visitors to see elk, reindeer, and even bears roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Other natural phenomenon to look out for in Swedish Lapland are the midnight sun, when the sun never sets in the summer months, and the Northern Lights.

15 Best Places to Visit in Sweden:

• Jönköping/Lake Vättern
• Kosterhavet

Summer in Sweden: 5 BEST Experiences

Being a lover of sunshine and warm days, I recently spent some long summer days exploring all that Sweden has to offer.

Stockholm, with its many little islands, uncountable bridges and cobblestone streets leading through a medieval old town is an absolute must-do! I then travelled through the country to the lakes and beaches of the west coast to experience staying at a traditional Swedish summerhouse.

In this article, I'll cover the best experience you can have in Summer in Sweden.

How Warm Is It In Summer in Sweden?

Summers in Sweden are generally short and vary greatly, also because the country is pretty stretched out from north to south. Temperatures you can expect in summer in Sweden range from 15 degrees up to 30 degrees on some of the hotter days, which are rare though.

During my time in Sweden, it was around 20 degrees in the daytime but around 10 degrees at night, so it does get quite chilly and packing a jumper or light jacket is a must for your trip to Sweden in summer.

If you want to experience warm weather, the best time to visit Sweden is between May and September. During that time you also get to experience long days with sunsets close to midnight.

In the far north, the sun doesn’t set at all in June. This makes summer definitely perfect for long sightseeing and outdoor activity days when visiting Sweden.

Don’t Travel Without Travel Insurance

For my trip to Europe in the summer, I chose to be insured by Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI).

In my entire life, I have actually never left on an overseas trip without taking out travel insurance. Why? Because you never know what can happen on the road, you could simply trip over a rock while hiking through Sweden and hurt your ankle, get food poisoning from fish you eat at the markets – and of course, we have all heard of other crazy travel accident stories.

With SCTI, you have the freedom to explore Europe, with the peace of mind that you’re covered should the unexpected happen. Travelling soon? Get your free quote with SCTI here . 

Best Summer Experiences in Sweden

Below are some of the best ideas on what to do and experience in Sweden in the summertime.

To me, it truly is the best time to explore this Scandinavian country.

1. Explore Beautiful Stockholm

With just over a million people living in the capital of Sweden, a few days in Stockholm have to be on your travel itinerary when visiting Sweden in the summer.

I recommend spending at least 2-3 days wandering the streets of Gamla Stan, which is the old medieval town with lots of colourful buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries and the Royal Palace with its daily guard changing ceremony.

Then, catch a ferry to Djurgarden, a beautiful green island with lots of trails and an open-air museum with Nordic animals. Of course, you can also pay a visit to the Abba Museum, if that’s more your jam.

Another favourite find of mine was visiting Östermalms Saluhall , a big food hall from the 1880s, where I had some of the best traditional Swedish gourmet seafood. Best for a visit around lunchtime.

You surely don’t want to leave the city without having tasted the traditional Köttbullar, Swedish meatballs served with potato mash, lingonberry jam and thick gravy. So good!

The afternoon is a wonderful time to browse the vintage and design stores of the neighbourhood of Södermalm. With its creative and laid-back vibe, I could’ve spent hours just walking around the streets. There are also plenty of cozy cafes to have Fika, a traditional Swedish coffee and café break that’s an integral part of Swedish culture.

Finish your day by visiting Monteliusvägen viewpoint and get a jaw-dropping view of the beautiful city skyline.

If you have a bit more time to stay in Stockholm , there are about 30,000 islands to explore and plenty of sailing and boat tours you can take.

2. Celebrate Midsummer Like The Locals

Midsummer is a special celebration in Sweden in June. It’s actually one of the biggest and most famous holidays in the entire country and marks the celebration of the longest day of the entire year, the summer solstice.

Traditionally, women wear white dresses or something floral, while men wear a blue or white shirt, and later in the day, everyone dances around the Midsummer pole which is decorated with local flowers.

Don’t forget to also wear a floral headband (if you’re a woman) and get ready to gather with enough beer, schnapps, herring and boiled potatoes with dill, and simply dance the night away.

If you happen to be celebrating somewhere by the lakeside in a true Swedish summerhouse, you surely will have to take a midnight swim, it’s tradition!

All big and smaller cities in Sweden put on outdoor midsummer events too, so even if you don’t have friends from Sweden, you can still be part of the midsummer festivities in one of the many public parks or gardens. The open-air museum Skansen in Stockholm puts on a big show for midsummer and has several events happening in the lead-up to the big midsummer day.

3. Pick A Swedish Summerhouse By The Lake

Summerhouses, also called “sommarstuga”, are a very popular getaway for Swedes who live in the city and want to escape in their summer holidays.

I never understood what visiting a summerhouse meant for Swedes before actually visiting one in Sweden. Many summerhouses are located in rural areas with beautiful backdrops like mountains, forests, lakes or by the sea. You might have seen the red cottage houses on a postcard or on TV before, and yes, that’s exactly what they look like! Simply beautiful.

I also never knew that more than 50% of Swedes have easy access to a summer cottage through extended family or friends and they are an integral part of the local culture to detach from the stress of living in a city and just get back to nature and unwind. Many Swedes choose to own a summerhouse only about an hour or so away from their homes for easy access.

For someone visiting Sweden, it’s of course amazing to be invited to a real Swedish summerhouse by people you know and experience it in its full glory and Swedish tradition.

However, in case you don’t get this honour, there are plenty of Swedish summerhouses on offer on Airbnb and I highly recommend you take a few days to relax in the countryside Swedish-style. Be sure to befriend the neighbours and you will get first-hand Swedish summerhouse vibes and insights.

4. Enjoy The Beaches And Get Active

Sweden might be known for its winter activities, but did you know that Sweden also has pretty beaches and seaside spots to spend some sunny summer days?

You can even catch some waves in Töro, south of Stockholm, where they also have an annual surfing competition running. Surely, the water is still pretty cold, but that makes it even more special – and really, that’s what the sauna is for in Sweden, to warm up afterward.

Swedes love to get out and about year-round and therefore, there is no shortage of activities to do all throughout the country. Swedish summer activities involve anything from swimming, kayaking, sailing, hiking, cycling or riding your mountain bike , yoga in the park or climbing.

One of the most popular Swedish sports you probably know nothing about is an outdoor activity called orienteering . It’s a thinking sport with map reading and decision-making combined with a workout. Maybe about time to give it a try?

5. See The Midnight Sun

Experiencing sunlight at midnight is something truly special. From early June to early July, you can get a full 24 hours of sunlight in the northern parts of Swedish Lapland in the Arctic Circle. Then, the sun simply doesn’t set in this part of the world at all!

Surely, midnight sun messes a little with your head, so it’s best to pack a decent sleeping mask and use the black-out curtains at your accommodation, so you don’t get tricked into staying up for as long as you can.

There are many cool experiences you can have during the midnight sun in Sweden, such as:

• Go skiing at Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain
• Play golf at midnight
• Take a swim whenever you feel like it
• Go to a music festival
• Soak up the midnight sun from a horseback

Summer is a wonderful time to visit Sweden. Everyone is out and about, the days are long, and the temperatures are moderate and beautiful. If you are planning to spend your next summer holidays in Sweden, I hope this article gives you some great inspiration!

And remember, always take out travel insurance before you go. SCTI are experts in travel insurance, with over 35 years’ experience. You can also add options tailored to your needs, like snowboarding or skiing cover , cover for valuables, as well as being able to choose how much excess you want to pay.

Summer in Sweden – Frequently Asked Questions

☀️ when is summer in sweden.

The summer months in Sweden are typically from June to August, with July being the warmest month of the season.

✔️ Is it worth visiting Sweden during the summer?

Absolutely! Visiting Sweden during the summer months will allow you to have plenty of experiences, from enjoying the long daylight hours and outdoor activities to exploring cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg and scenic landscapes around the lakes.

❓ How long is it light in Sweden in summer?

During the summer in Sweden, daylight can last for up to 18 to 20 hours in the northern parts of the country. To get a good night's sleep, blackout curtains are essential. The extended daylight hours in summer are an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities, especially under the midnight sun.

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Carolin is a travel expert born in Germany. She has been travelling around the world since 2014 and now lives in her adopted soul home Australia. Her travel advice has been featured on Forbes, Daily Mail, Yahoo!, News.com.au, Tour Radar, Expedia and she's also been named one of the top travel bloggers you need to follow by Tourism Queensland.

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Scandinavian summer: The best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer

Scandinavian summer is amazing – here’s why!

There’s a special time of year when the grim slog of February begins winding down and we start to see a glimmer of what spring might actually look like. We peek out of our dank burrows, blinking in the daylight-like mole-people, sniffing the air, puzzling over whatever that bright shiny disc in the sky might be.

We also remember that the Scandinavian summer isn’t all that far off. Many of us start killing idle time at work by daydreaming over summer vacation destinations, imagining ourselves in the sand, surrounded by other beautiful people, sipping on fruity frozen drinks as the surf crashes nearby.

But one place that probably flies under radar for lots of people when they’re thinking about possible summer vacation hot spots is Scandinavia.

While most people imagine exotic equatorial locales for the summer break, the long daylight hours of Scandinavian summer and the natural beauty of the larger Nordic world hold dozens of under-appreciated destinations.

While it’s true that ice and snow and Vikings and fjords are all a part of this unique cultural and geographical ecosystem near the top of the European continent, so are stunning beaches, surfing, boating, camping, hiking and much more. 

While the masses flock every summer to Spain, Greece and Italy, Scandinavian summer awaits for those in the know.

Here are a few of the top destinations for holidays this summer in Scandinavia that will create unique memories that last a lifetime!

Best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer: Denmark

1. Copenhagen

Lots of first-time visitors to Denmark are surprised to learn that one of the most popular Danish summer holiday destinations is staying close to home, right in the capital of Copenhagen .

Danish people who prefer a ‘staycation’ in Copenhagen appreciate how much the city has to offer in summer, not least of which is a more laid-back vibe without the frantic tourist onslaught you find in Southern European summer destinations.

You’re also not trapped in some smaller, strictly tourist-oriented town with overcrowded beaches, absurdly jacked-up prices, low-quality food, obnoxiously touristic clubs and bars and so forth. 

In Copenhagen you’ve got beaches and waterfront activities, but also all manner of world-class entertainment, restaurants, nightlife, and cultural attractions available to keep you busy. 

And if you do encounter a rainy day, you can take the kids to a museum as part of their Scandinavian summer holiday rather than being trapped in a hotel room or under the mildewed canvas of that creepy carnival on the outskirts of town.

When it’s sunny, however, the beaches around Copenhagen will certainly not be empty, as the weather there in summer is a treat. Copenhagen as a Scandinavian summer holiday destination is especially great for delicate, pasty types who tend to melt or go lobster-red straightaway when they hit the tropics. 

Temperatures average in the high 60s and low 70s ºF (19 to 23 ºC) with record highs getting up into the low 90s (up to 33 ºC) in July and August.

And there are beaches a-plenty in and around Copenhagen for enjoying a classic summer in Scandinavia, starting with the iconic Amager Strandpark — Amager Beach Park in English. 

This 2 km spit of land on the edge of Copenhagen is home to a total of 4.9 km of pristine beachfront where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, snorkeling, and windsurfing just a short walk away from the city center.

Another great draw of doing a Danish summer holiday right in Copenhagen is you get to take advantage of Copenhagen’s blue-rated harbor while enjoying the system of four Copenhagen Harbor Baths . 

These unique, well-designed, and architecturally arresting sites are a popular draw for both tourists and locals, where you can swim, dive and just hang out on the deck and enjoy the outdoors. 

There’s one in Islands Brygge that boasts five pools that are up to seven meters of depth in places, and springboards of three and five meters for diving.

Find places to stay in Copenhagen .

2. Bornholm Island

If you’re the type that prefers a quieter, more off-the-beaten track type of holiday, you might want to consider Bornholm Island for your next Nordic summer holiday. 

This gorgeous Danish summer holiday destination is located far from the mainland, off in the Baltic Sea due south of Sweden and just north of the very furthest western bit of Poland. 

But while that geographic description may not inspire confidence when it comes to thinking about possible summer holidays in Scandinavia, you might be surprised to hear about the summer fun on offer on Bornholm.  

For starters, Bornholm Island has tremendous beaches, the most famous of which is Dueodde Beach on the island’s southern tip. It’s an expansive stretch of white sand beach that stretches uninterrupted for nearly 30 kilometers (19 mi). 

The beach has some of the finest sand of any in the world, and is several hundred meters wide at some points, giving way to scrub pine and spruce. 

The sand forms dunes in places that reach 12 meters (39 feet) in height, and there are extensive boardwalks and paths as well, alongside water that remains calm and shallow out to about 100 meters (328 feet) from the shore.    

But in addition to Dueodde Beach and the dozens of other, smaller and often secret beaches that dot the coast of Bornholm, there are plenty of other outdoor activities available for visitors looking for Scandinavian summer adventures. 

The north coast of the island gives Bornholm one of its nicknames, Rock Island, and it is a hiker’s and climber’s delight. 

Granite cliff faces and rocky outcrops plunge into the sea, offering unbeatable Instagram opportunities, while the interior of the island is made up of sprawling forests and meadows ready to be explored, as well as a glacial lake called Hammersø.

It might seem weird to head north to find a suitable Scandinavian summer holiday, but the town of Skagen on the very northernmost tip of Denmark’s Jutland Peninsula has long been a destination of choice for Danes and foreign visitors alike to take in the Scandinavian summer rays.

Founded as a fishing village in the 12 th century, Skagen charts a record-setting 233 monthly hours of sunshine in July — even more than in Bornholm Island’s famously sunny Østerlars village. 

The town was made famous in the late 1800s by a group of Impressionist painters who reveled in the unique and long-lasting daylight that lingers over the water on summer evenings, and King Christian X and Queen Alexandrine entertained European monarchy there at their summer residence Klitgaarden, which was completed in 1914.

Today, visitors looking to experience a Danish summer holiday can enjoy visiting the northernmost terminus of Denmark at the spit of land that narrows to a point called Grenen. 

Here you can take in the clash of two oceans coming together, Kattegat (part of the Baltic Sea) and Skagerrak (an arm of the North Sea). 

It’s also a great place to see marine life of all kinds, including common seals who rest on the sand as well as porpoises plying the water.

You’ll also want to visit the Råbjerg Mile, Europe’s largest moving sand dune, a stretch of sand that is a kilometer long by a kilometer wide, and about 40 meters or 131 feet high. 

Each year the dune migrates about 15 meters (50 feet) toward Grenen, and is expected to cover the road to Skagen in the next century or two.

Find places to stay in Skagen .

Best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer: Sweden

Just across the Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen lies one of Sweden’s jewels for summertime fun, Malmö , a city that is always high on the list of favorite Scandinavian summer holiday spots. 

Malmö is the third-largest city in Sweden, featuring cosmopolitan style and activities, but is nonetheless full of small-town charm and boasts a rocking outdoor-oriented scene. 

The waterfront bursts into life every spring and summer as hordes of young Swedes descend on the city’s five beach areas to enjoy long days of sunshine and temperatures averaging in the high 60s to mid-70s ºF (19 — 23 ºC) during the summer months, sometimes reaching as high as 93 ºF (34 ºC). 

You’ll want to check out Ribersoborg Beach, which is often referred to as the ‘Scandinavian Copacabana.’ This 2.5 kilometer-long (1.5 mi) beach is just a 20-minute walk from the city center, and has shallow, warm water fronted by fine white sand, perfect for a Swedish summer holiday.

Also a must-see is the Ribersborgs Kallbadhus , an open-air sea bathing facility dating back to 1898. The baths feature two separate sea bathing pools, one for men and one for women, and they are clothing-optional. 

You can also catch a massage, take a sauna, or enjoy fine dining right there on the waterfront.

But keep in mind, you’ll need to be clothed to enter the restaurant. Just saying.

Malmö, much like Copenhagen but on a smaller scale, is also not simply a limited beach destination when you’re considering a Scandinavian summer holiday. 

There is plenty to do in Malmö even after the sun goes down, including a vibrant nightlife in the recently redeveloped Västra Hamnen waterfront area, where you can see the iconic architectural wonder of the Turning Torso building. 

There’s also a charming old world city center with a myriad of Renaissance buildings, as well as the famous Malmöhus Castle overlooking the city, first built in 1434 and now home to an aquarium, several museums, and an outdoor complex where you could easily spend an entire day.

Find places to stay in Malmo .

2. Nynäshamn

Just an hour’s train ride south of Stockholm you’ll find Nynäshamn, the southernmost point on Stockholm’s archipelago. 

The area offers vacationers interested in the genuine Nordic summer trip a oceanfront camping, kayaking, canoeing, bicycling, backpacking — as well as swimming and sunbathing of course.

There are plenty of family-style camping resorts (some might say ‘glamping,’ as many these ‘campgrounds’ are hardly rustic) where you can enjoy the comforts of home as well as a forested, seaside adventure. 

Popular camping resorts like First Camp Nickstabadet-Nynäshamn —which, in fairness, do feature accommodations ranging from simple tent sites to caravan parking to cabins—also feature waterslides, organized activities for kids, and all kinds of other bells and whistles. 

But one great thing about Scandinavian summer holidays in general and camping in Sweden in particular is that the country adheres to the code of ‘everyman’s right,’ the notion that anywhere that isn’t built up, inhabited, or cultivated is fair game for hikers and campers. 

Just outside of  Nynäshamn there are nature preserves and tons of open areas for camping and hiking, and you could wander pretty far to find yourself a tranquil spot far from the madding crowd.

Nynäshamn also is the doorway to a number of destinations even further afield. If you want to take a ferry to Latvia or even Poland, more adventures await as you push the boundaries of your Swedish summer holiday to encompass parts of other nearby nations.

Find places to stay in Nynäshamn .

You can’t really talk about Swedish summer holidays or even the larger world of Nordic summer holidays without mentioning Gotland, Sweden’s largest island. 

A ferry ride over from the mainland (Nynäshamn is one of the many places you can set out from) will get you to one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Scandinavian world. 

In 2012 some 1.5 million people took a ferry to Gotland from Sweden, while over 350,000 flew there for their Scandinavian summer vacation. 

If you take the ferry, you’ll arrive at Visby, a charming Medieval town surrounded by 13th-century walls with winding cobblestone streets taking you past well-preserved period houses and buildings including St. Mary’s Cathedral and St. Nicholas’ Church, both also dating to the 13 th century. 

The 3.5 km walk to circumnavigate the walls yields stunning views of the town and the sea as well.

Visitors can also enjoy the long Sudersand Beach of fine white sand on Faro, a smaller island just off the northern tip of Gotland. 

But, be aware that this beach in particular is so majestic and spectacular that it is often thought to be the most popular beach destination not only for Scandinavian summer holiday makers, but in the entire Baltic region. 

Alternatively, check out pretty much anywhere along Gotland’s east coast between Sjaustrehammaren and Ljugarn where the pine forest backs right up against the sand for gorgeous beaches that aren’t quite so overrun. 

Although those with delicate sensibilities be warned: just north of Ljugarn there is also a nude beach area. We all know those Scandinavians love to get naked… 

Best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer: Norway

1. Svalbard

Okay, so not every Scandinavian summer holiday absolutely needs to involve sun and sand and nudity, right? Here’s a Norwegian summer holidays destination that is not only off the beaten track, but will give you stories for a lifetime. 

The Svalbard archipelago is about as far north into Norway as one can go, as it’s a group of islands about halfway between the Norwegian mainland and the North Pole. It’s admittedly not a typical summer holiday-maker’s type of destination…

… But, for the outdoor adventurer who loves seeing wildlife in its natural habitat, as well as rugged, epic landscapes and seascapes, Svalbard could prove a once-in-a-lifetime Scandinavian summer tourist destination.

You’ll get the opportunity to spend some time outdoors in the balmy summer temperatures averaging between 39 and 43 ºF (4 to 6 ºC) observing an unmatched array of wildlife that stop off here on their migratory routes. 

The animals you can observe range from a variety of whale species, dolphins, walruses, seals, and almost uncountable bird types. 

Sweden vs. Switzerland: What are the main differences?

Other residents of the islands include the arctic fox, the Svalbard reindeer and polar bears, which are a huge tourist draw for passing cruise ships and are closely protected, but which make for a uniquely Norwegian summer holiday. 

And if you get tired of living the wildlife life, there is also the university town of Longyearbyen which has a reputation for being a fun place to visit as well. Keep in mind that since it’s outside the Schengen area, Svalbard is a great place to buy duty-free goods as well!

From the extreme north of Norway, let’s shake off the cold and head to the extreme south, the town of Mandal. This town, the southernmost town in the entire country, is a favorite of Norwegian holiday makers. 

Norwegian families flock to the cabins the line the Mandal River every summer, and enjoy the seaside, forests, and the quaint, charming town of Mandal.

You’ll find great beaches here as well, including but not limited to the massive Sjosanden Beach, a broad and lengthy yellow-sand beach that’s just a short walk outside the city center, where you’ll find dunes, tons of space, and unbeatable views of the light over the water. 

There’s also a campground adjacent to the beach and nearby forest, and climbing rocks as well. 

But you aren’t limited to just the ever-popular Sjosanden Beach, as just to the south you can easily walk to seven more quiet and peaceful oceanfront beaches that are perched on the edge of the natural area, Furundulen. 

There is an extensive network of footpaths winding through the trees and along the water, as well as playgrounds, barbecue pits, and more.

The heart of the 15,000-population town of Mandal really comes alive in summertime too, with outdoor concerts every Wednesday evening throughout the summer, where locals mingle with tourists and chat over a beer while enjoying every genre of music imaginable. 

You can also catch a 4-day shellfish festival in August and much more, including a small but lively restaurant scene and nightlife.

Find places to stay in Mandal .

It would be silly to have a list of possible Norwegian summer holiday trip ideas that didn’t include at least one fjord adventure , and the town of Valldal is a great way to see a whole lot at once. 

This small valley punches above its weight in terms of scenery, including wild rivers that drop down from the high mountain peaks into the fjords, stunning cliff and rock faces, lush forests, and more. 

It’s famously a favorite destination of kayakers, rafters, hikers, and rock-climbers alike. 

Situated just north of the Norddalsfjorden , which is a branch off the massive Storfjorden, lies Valldal, aka Sylte, a charming village that serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring the fjord country. 

The village is home to a tourist-favorite church that dates back to pre-1400s, as well as stunning views and a well-developed tourist industry that will help you get out on the water, up on the cliff-sides, or wherever else you want to go outdoor exploring in the immediate area.

Once you’ve had your fill nearby the town, head down the winding Trollstigen or Troll’s Road, part of the Norwegian Scenic Route. 

Driving along it you can reach the Geiranger Fjord and from there catch a ferry to the famed Seven Sisters waterfall — another option is to take a ferry directly from Valldal, but each offers its own set of epic vistas. 

The Seven Sisters is one of the most-photographed sites in all of fjord country. Legend has it that the seven cascades that make up the falls dance and play while the Suitor Falls across the fjord try to flirt with them. 

Find places to stay in Valldal .

Best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer: Iceland

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Okay, okay, it’s true: Iceland and Finland aren’t technically part of Scandinavia . 

But let’s face it: there’s sufficient cultural, geographic and historical similarities to justify adding at least a couple of—strictly speaking—Nordic destinations to our list. 

One such spot for a Nordic holiday getaway that should jump to the top of everyone’s list is Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. 

It’s a geothermal pool formed by the hot water vented from the ground near a lava flow that is then used to power the geothermal power plant Svartsengi. It in turn powers many of Iceland’s homes and businesses, and then deposits its—clean, chemical-free—used water in pools like Blue Lagoon. 

The high mineral content of the water has been enjoyed by millions of visitors, who rub their skin with the silica-heavy white mud that accretes on the bottom. It’s this silica that also gives the water its milky blue hue. 

There are various rather pricey hotels along the water that provide private pool areas, but the main pool is accessible to the public for a fee. In addition to the lagoon itself, you can sometimes see the Northern Lights from here, and there are nearby attractions like ATV tours, lava caving trips, hiking and more. 

Best of all, the lagoon is on the way from Reykjavik to the airport, so make sure you book your trip there in advance and you’ll also be able to catch a bus directly to catch a very relaxing flight afterward!

Best places to visit in Scandinavia in summer: Finland

Tampere, Finland

It wouldn’t be fair to touch on an Iceland destination for our Nordic summer holiday spots without mentioning one in Finland as well. 

Gorgeous Tampere may not be the biggest or most famous city in Finland, but for outdoor adventurers looking for a Scandinavian summer holiday, it’s practically ideal. 

It’s perched on a spit of land between two lakes, and since the lakes have a difference of some 59 feet in altitude, a spectacular set of rapids, the Tammerkoski, courses through the middle of the city non-stop.

The city itself is home to a strong working-class tradition, with writers, musicians and modern YouTubers all hailing from there, lending a down-to-earth and eclectic vibe to the culture, restaurants, bars and nightlife. 

There is tremendous history and modern culture alike to be discovered in Tampere, and you can easily spend a week just exploring the city . 

Nearby you’ll also find plenty of recreation on the lakes, including boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing and more. You can also catch a boat to Viikinsaari Island for hiking, picnicking and more. 

Find places to stay in Tampere .

Scandification: Discovering Scandinavia.

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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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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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13 BEST Things to do in Stockholm in Summer

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

From exploring palaces and cruising the archipelago to discovering the urban beaches, here are the best things to do in Stockholm in summer!

Spread out over 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the sea, the Swedish city of Stockholm is a capital like no other. Streets lined with classic Baroque architecture, incredible museums, and all that water: Stockholm provides incredible intellectual and visual stimulation every time you visit!

I love visiting Stockholm in summer, it is such a different experience than visiting over the winter time . After months of the short dark days, the sun comes back in full force. With up to 18 hours of daylight each day, there is plenty of time to dive into Stockholm summer activities.

Spend your days feasting your eyes on the architecture at Gamla Stan or wandering the graffiti wall of fame. And, make sure to reserve some time to get out on the water, either on a cruise or even diving right in!

Additionally, the Stockholm summer events calendar is packed and ready to please. Spend your summer weekends partying in gardens, catching a movie under the stars, or munching your way across an epic street food celebration.

So if you’re headed to Stockholm this summer, I’ve prepared a list of my favourite activities for you. Read on and find out!

Visiting Stockholm at other times of the year? Check out my guide on visiting Stockholm in winter !

Stockholm summer weather

Summers in Stockholm are delightfully sunny and comfortably warm. Over the summer months you can expect average highs of 20–25°C (68–77°F) during the day, cooling down to around 13°C (55°F) at night.

While the weather is generally warm and sunny, it can still be unpredictable in Sweden . I recommend bringing layers and a light jacket for the cooler evenings. Don’t forget your swimsuit and sunscreen!

Are you planning an amazing weekend in Stockholm? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!

Best hotels and apartments in Stockholm:

• Bank Hotel (best rated 5* hotel)
• Hotel Hasselbacken (best rated 4* hotel)
• Mälardrottningen Yacht Hotel (stay on a boat!)

Best activities and tours in Stockholm:

• City Archipelago Sightseeing Cruise (top rated tour!)
• ABBA The Museum Entrance Ticket (great indoor activity)
• Skansen Open-Air Museum Ticket (perfect for families)

Best things to do in Stockholm in summer

Visit stockholm’s old town: gamla stan.

One of the first things to do when you arrive in Stockholm is to get yourself acquainted with Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. Founded in 1252, the Old Town is centred around a medieval square, Stortorget.

Comprised of picturesque, brightly painted buildings and cobbled streets, this square is a hubbub of activity with tourists and locals alike. Alongside cafes and shops, here you’ll see the Stockholm Stock Exchange. This is a great place to drink a coffee and observe the city. There are also some great walking tours to help you get acquainted.

Pro tip: come early in the morning if you’re wanting to beat the crowds and get some good pics for your ‘gram.

Cruise the Stockholm archipelago

The city proper is spread out over 14 islands, however, the greater archipelago has around 24,000 islands and islets. Isn’t that incredible!?

If you’re spending summer in Stockholm then I really recommend stepping aboard a historic ship and taking a stylish cruise . Spend 2.5 hours sailing around the archipelago, learning about the history of the sights as you cruise by. This is such a great outing!

If you don’t have time for a full cruise, then hop on one of the public transport ferries which go between the islands. These can be paid for using your SL public transport pass and it’s a great way of getting on the water.

Go for a dip

While beaches may not be your first thought when visiting Nordic countries, Stockholm actually has an abundance of places to swim. And if you’re visiting Stockholm in summer, this is the best time to make the most of them!

For a centrally located swimming area, head to Smedsuddsbadet . This popular spot has both sand and grass to stretch out on, and can become quite lively on summer evenings.

Visit Skansen: the oldest open air museum

When you’re craving a mixture of Swedish culture and history, but with a good dose of nature thrown in, it is time to visit Skansen . Set over a whopping 75 acres, this open air museum showcases the traditional ways of Swedish life. You’ll also encounter a range of Nordic wildlife.

Over the summer months, you’ll be treated to displays of singing and dancing, and there are lots of hands on activities to participate in. This is a great day out, especially if you’re travelling with kids.

Partake in fika

The Swedish tradition of fika is to pause during the day to drink coffee. Now this is something I can get behind!

While this may sound somewhat like your normal schedule, the Swedish have built this into a cultural institution. So much so, it is even built into their work contracts! Over the summer, the best place to partake in this Swedish pass time is in one of the glorious garden cafes, such as the charming Rosendal Trädgårdskafe. Here, over the summer months you can take a seat in the orchard and enjoy the full relaxation effect associated with fika.

Spend a night at the drive in

The Stockholm Film Festival holds an annual summer homage to retro drive in movie theatres. Each June screens pop up across the city, showcasing a line up of classics.

Stockholm’s mild summer evenings are just excellent for enjoying an outdoor movie. Never fear, if you don’t have four wheels to rock up in, you can hire a bicycle and show up on two. Bring a picnic to really make the most of it!

Hallwylska Palazzo

When you’re ready to treat yourself, enjoy a magnificent feast in the stunning courtyard of Hallwylska museet . Not only is the courtyard something of fairy tales, the food here is simply mouthwatering.

Marrying a combination of traditional Swedish cuisine with French and Italian inspiration, the restaurant uses high quality fresh ingredients to create incredible dishes. Sit in the sunshine and enjoy a selection small dishes, paired with one of their signature cocktails. It’s on the pricier side, but well worth it!

Down a tunnbrödsrulle

If sampling street food is more up your alley, make your way down to a late night hot dog stand to try local favourite, tunnbrödsrulle. These Anthony Bourdain approved snacks are what to eat at the end of a big night out.

Tunnbrödsrulle is the wild and glorious combination of mashed potatoes, hot dogs, lettuce, onions, shrimp salad and jalapeños, all wrapped up in flat bread. Trust me, I know how it sounds, but somehow the combination is incredible. Big night or not, you have to try this!

Snösätra Graffiti Wall of Fame

If you’re a fan of street art, an excellent summer activity is taking a sunny stroll along the Snösätra Graffiti Wall of Fame. The wall is located in an abandoned industrial area in Stockholm’s south known as Snösätra. Thanks to local artists, this area has been given a vibrant facelift and has become quite the popular destination.

Each spring artists from across the globe redo all of the artwork, so there will be a fresh gallery each year you visit. So, grab an ice cream and enjoy this open air gallery.

Rosendal Garden Party

Kicking off the Stockholm summer events calendar each year is epic festival, Rosendal Garden Party . Located in the gorgeous Rosendal Trädgård, it’s just a short walk from the centre of town.

Spread over 4 days, this festival attracts many big names. This year’s event is taking place from June 8-11, and the line up includes musical legends including Aphex Twin, and The War on Drugs. You’ll also catch many other local and international favourites. Grab some tickets and get ready to dance!

Attend a street food festival

One of my favourite parties on the Stockholm summer events calendar has to be the Street Food Festival. Featuring a vibrant mix of delicious food, craft beer, DJs and graffiti, you’re bound to leave this event full and smiling. Best of all, entrance is free!

The 2023 event is booked for 28 and 29 July. If you’re in Stockholm for these dates, be sure to check it out!

The most traditional celebration on the Stockholm summer events calendar, and one you should definitely try to catch, is the Midsommar festival . Taking place on the closest Friday to 23 June, Midsommar celebrates the longest day of the year, and the arrival of the summer months.

The occasion is marked by the whimsically donning a flower garland and dancing around a pole, while heartily consuming flavoured schnapps. How magic does that sound?

While many Sweeds have private celebrations with their families, you will find some great public events too. For the most traditional celebration, head to Skansen.

Drottningholm Palace

Spend a day visiting the residence of the royal family of Sweden at Drottningholm Palace. This impressive palace and gardens are open to the public and certainly worth the visit. The palace itself was built in the 1600s and is UNESCO listed.

There are guided tours available if you’d like to dive deep into the palace’s fascinating history. Or you can simply wander the grounds and marvel. If you’re travelling with little ones, there are some super fun activities they can take part in including going on a treasure hunt.

This is included with the Stockholm city pass which gives you access to 45+ different sites and attractions over the city. It’s a great way of saving some money if you’re in Stockholm for a few days!

Where to stay in Stockholm

Luxury: at six.

Sleek modern design, wonderful service and incredibly comfortable beds await you at At Six. This luxury hotel is centrally located and the rooms include excellent features including rainfall showers and deep bath tubs. With both a coffee machine and cocktail making facilities right in your room, you’ll be ready for every occasion.

Mid-range: Hotel With Urban Deli

Looking for a mid-range hotel that is deliciously photo-worthy? Hotel With Urban Deli is for you. The rooms in this trendy hotel feature innovative design and industrial-modern furnishings, creating a striking yet functional effect. Guests here benefit from an excellent complementary breakfast, and there is an epic rooftop space complete with bar.

Budget: Biz Apartment Hammarby Sjöstad

Enjoy the space and comfort of your own apartment during your stay at Biz Apartment Hammarby Sjöstad. Located in the city’s southern Sjöstad district, these clean and stylish apartments have everything you need for a self catered stay. They are also well connected by public transport.

So as you can see, summer is a fantastic time to visit Stockholm as there are so many activities to enjoy. Are your favourites on the list? Let me know in the comments below.

Travelling around? Then find how to get from Stockholm to Copenhagen to visit a very different city in Scandinavia.

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Chelsey has lived, worked and studied across 9 countries, and has travelled in 40+. When she is not laying on a beach in Thailand or eating her way across India, she can be found discovering hidden corners of London.

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The 12 best experiences Sweden has to offer

Dec 12, 2023 • 7 min read

Explore the incredible experiences Sweden has to offer with our favorite things to do © Johner Images / Getty Images

Sweden’s attractions are endless. Get ready for unspoiled nature, world-class museums, fascinating history, beautiful cities and towns, vibrant traditions and a creative spirit that makes itself known in everything from science, technology and the arts to the country’s ever-evolving culinary scene.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, urban attractions or some combination of both, you’ll find it in Scandinavia’s largest country. These are our favorite things to do in Sweden to help you experience its magic to the fullest.

1. Fall in love with beautiful Stockholm

“Of cities I know in the world, you are the one with it all,” wrote Swedish singer-songwriter Lasse Berghagen in a famous musical love letter to Sweden’s capital, “ Stockholm i mitt hjärta ” (Stockholm in My Heart). Berghagen was right – Stockholm is a charmer.

The city has enough museums, historic buildings and other attractions to keep you busy for weeks, but some of its greatest pleasures are the simplest ones, found in its vibrant neighborhoods . Wander the medieval alleys of Gamla Stan , stroll along Strandvägen and the Djurgården Canal, admire the panoramic views from Södermalm , then catch a summer sunset over Lake Mälaren.

2. Island-hop in the Stockholm archipelago

Some 30,000 islands and skerries make up the scenic Stockholm archipelago , scattered over an area of nearly 1,680 sq km (648 sq mi). If you’ve got limited time, soak up some island vibes at Fjäderholmarna, just a 25-minute boat ride from downtown Stockholm, or take a guided archipelago cruise .

Year-round passenger ferries and speedier summer excursion boats service destinations throughout the region, including Vaxholm , Grinda, Finnhamn, Möja and Sandhamn, which are great day trip spots but also have accommodations if you’d like to stay and explore.

3. Take a hike

Swedes love nature – so much so that the right to enjoy it freely is enshrined in law. No matter where you are, it’s easy to lace up your hiking shoes and hit the trail , whether for an urban hike in Stockholm’s Royal National City Park , a day trip to a rural nature reserve or a multi-day trek on one of Sweden’s many long-distance hiking routes, found in every region of the country. An excellent public transportation network makes even remote trails accessible by bus, train or ferry. The Swedish Tourist Association is a good starting point for hiking suggestions in every corner of the country.

Planning tip: Though the right to roam is an intrinsic part of Swedish society, there are conditions attached to preserve the landscapes for everyone. Check the relevant rules before setting to ensure a wonderful experience.

4. Cruise the Göta Canal

One of the most ambitious construction projects in Swedish history, the Göta Canal connects the Baltic Sea with the country’s largest lakes, Vänern and Vättern, linking up with the Trollhättan Canal for a full coast-to-coast crossing complete with 66 locks and two aqueducts.

A canal cruise is a delightful way to experience the lush green countryside, quaint villages and other attractions along the route, with itineraries ranging from day trips to multi-day journeys on historic canal boats.

Planning tip: If you prefer a do-it-yourself cruise, you can rent a boat and travel at your own pace.

5. Explore southern Sweden on a bike

Another great way to experience the Göta Canal is by biking along the towpaths — 87 car-free kilometers (54 miles) in all. Be sure to stop at Berg and Borenshult to watch boats passing through impressive multi-lock staircases.

Further south, Sweden’s three linked cycling routes are perfect for day trips or long-distance journeys. The 274-km (170 miles) Sydostleden trail runs south from Växjö through the fields and forests of Småland and along the coast of eastern Skåne. At Simrishamn, Sydkustleden takes over, continuing 260 km (161 miles) along the south coast past white-sand beaches and historic cities and towns. From Helsingborg , Kattegattleden follows the scenic west coast for 390km (242 miles) all the way to Gothenburg.

6. Ride the rails on Inlandsbanan

For a rail journey through some of Sweden’s wildest and most beautiful scenery, take a ride on Inlandsbanan (the Inland Line). Starting in Mora in Dalarna , the train travels north to Gällivare, about 100 km (62 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, making numerous stops along the way.

Grab the opportunity to visit attractions such as the Arctic Circle, Östersund’s Jamtli local history museum and the Ájtte Mountain and Sámi Museum in Jokkmokk. A wonderful way to see the interior of northern Sweden, the route also provides access to long-distance hiking trails and the potential to spot some of the region’s abundant wildlife.

7. Search for the Northern Lights

Sweden’s far north is widely recognized as one of the top places in the world to experience the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), a frequent occurrence between September and March. Few sights can compare to the magic of seeing brilliant waves of green, red, blue and purple dance across the darkened sky, the result of electrically charged solar particles colliding in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Abisko National Park is renowned as one of the world’s best Northern Lights destinations, thanks to its clear skies, lack of light pollution and position within the auroral oval – a band around the Earth’s magnetic pole where auroras are most likely to form. East of Abisko, Kiruna , Sweden’s northernmost city, also makes a good base with many tour companies offering aurora-seeking excursions, including by skis, snowshoes and dog sleds.

8. Paddle a scenic waterway

Sweden’s long coastline, thousands of lakes and many islands make it an ideal paddling destination. In Stockholm you can rent kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddle boards at various locations including Långholmen , Kungsholmen and Djurgården . Kayak and canoe rentals are also available in other cities including Gothenburg and Malmö.

For something less urban, the Bohuslän coast, Skåne’s rugged Kullaberg peninsula and the High Coast region are all great kayaking destinations, as are the St. Anna archipelago near Söderköping and the islands around Piteå and Luleå in the far north. Sweden’s inland waterways, including roughly 100,000 lakes, also provide endless scope for paddling with equipment rentals and guided tours available throughout the country.

9. Savor the west coast lifestyle

Some people call Sweden’s west coast the “best coast.” While east coasters may quibble, there’s no denying there’s something special here. The region’s undisputed hub is Gothenburg , a lively port city with popular festivals and outstanding restaurants, shopping and attractions.

After a taste of urban pleasures, head north to Bohuslän , an almost impossibly beautiful region of deeply indented rocky coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages that fill with life during the summer months.

Detour: If you prefer beaches over rocky shores, head south from Gothenburg to Halland, where you’ll find lovely stretches of sand around Varberg, Falkenberg and Halmstad.

10. Eat your way through Sweden

Though perhaps best known internationally for meatballs and pancakes, Sweden has developed an exciting culinary scene that blends classic dishes with international influences, emphasizing sustainability and locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes and vibrant urban market halls, you’ll find a wide range of fantastic places to sample Sweden’s flavors all over the country.

To delve deeper into Swedish food culture, take a seafood safari in Bohuslän, tour the vineyards of Skåne, join an autumn truffle hunt on Gotland , or simply head into the forest to pick blueberries, lingonberries or chanterelle mushrooms, which Swedes call “forest gold.” A guided foraging walk in Swedish Lapland is a perfect way to learn more about edible Swedish nature.

11. Road trip through the Swedish countryside

With well-maintained roads, good signage and incredible sights scattered throughout the countryside, Sweden is perfect for a driving vacation. Although major highways will get you from point to point quickly, the great joy of a Swedish road trip is meandering along secondary routes through dense forests and pretty small towns, past sparkling lakes, spectacular coastlines and rolling farmland dotted with red-painted cottages with white trim.

Planning tip: The downside of driving in Sweden is the steep price of car rentals and fuel, but you can reduce the cost of the latter – as well as your environmental impact – by renting a hybrid or even an electric car. Electric charging stations are available throughout the country; Chargefinder is a good resource.

12. Visit castles, palaces and fortresses

Sweden has hundreds of historic castles, palaces and stately homes concentrated in the country’s southern third. Tour Stockholm’s massive Royal Palace , stroll through the beautiful gardens of lakeside Drottningholm Palace or go back in time at the turreted Renaissance castles of Gripsholm , Vadstena and Kalmar . On Öland, don’t miss the fire-ravaged ruins of 13th-century Borgholms Slott . There are also many interesting smaller castles such as Skokloster , Sofiero and Läckö .

Various historic fortresses also recall times when Sweden was much less peaceful and secure. For centuries, Vaxholm Fortress helped defend Stockholm against Danish and Russian attacks. North of Gothenburg, well-preserved Carlstens Fästning , from 1658, occupies a commanding position atop Marstrand island, while 14th-century Bohus Fästning in Kungälv witnessed many significant events before falling into atmospheric ruin.

This article was first published Feb 14, 2022 and updated Dec 12, 2023.

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10 Best Vacation Spots in Sweden: Ideas from Local Experts

It’s so easy to fall for Sweden. This Scandinavian country will enchant you with its sparkling lakes, vast forests, rich Viking heritage, captivating cities and royal palaces.

When it comes to deciding where to go on your Sweden vacation , there are plenty of places to choose from. You could revel in cosmopolitan cities, escape to the picturesque countryside, and discover a winter wonderland in the far north.

Our Scandinavia travel experts have picked out the best vacation spots in Sweden to help you figure out where you’d like to visit. Which of these Swedish places will you be adding to your travel wish list?

• Explore these top Sweden vacation packages

1. Stockholm

Sweden’s capital city is undoubtedly one of the top places you should visit on your Scandi adventure.

Stockholm is an attractive waterfront city that sprawls over 14 islands, including Stadsholmen where you find the old town, Gamla Stan.

Stroll along the cobbled streets here to admire centuries-old, colourful buildings, and stop for  fika (a coffee break) at one of the many cafés. This enchanting district happens to be one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval city centres.

There’s so much more to love about Stockholm. Expect world-class museums, restaurants, theme parks and palaces. You can even get a glimpse into royal life at the UNESCO-listed Drottningholm Palace, which dates back to the 17th century.

• Visit Stockholm on one of these small group tours in Sweden
• Related: 15 things to see and do in Stockholm

2. Gothenburg

Eco-conscious, lush and arty, Gothenburg is no ordinary city. Located in West Sweden, it is praised for being one of the most sustainable urban centres in the world.

You could join the locals and cycle around Gothenburg’s pretty streets, canals and green spaces. In fact, you’ll find the country’s largest botanical garden here, which is home to more than 16,000 plant species.

Sweden’s second largest city is also brimming with hip art galleries, including the Gothenburg Museum of Art, and tempting seafood restaurants.

Being so close to the sea on the west coast, you might be tempted to explore the islands lying just offshore from this cool Swedish city.

• Related: The ultimate Scandinavia guide: best times and places to visit

For one of the best vacation spots in Sweden in winter , look no further than Kiruna , Swedish Lapland. Head to the country’s northernmost city, located in the Arctic Circle, and you’ll discover a beautiful place that’s blanketed in snow between December and March.

There are plenty of  reasons why you should take a winter break in Kiruna .

You could try fun-filled activities in the snow, like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Perhaps you're tempted by the idea of staying in a hotel made of ice? If so, don’t miss a visit to the ICE HOTEL in Sweden .

Or you might be keen to chase the northern lights . Kiruna is the perfect place to base yourself for aurora-hunting excursions in the surrounding countryside. This entire region lies within the “northern lights belt”, where frequent aurora activity takes place.

• Hunt for the aurora borealis on a northern lights tour in Lapland
• Related: Christmas in Lapland – Your complete guide

Dalarna is the place to go if you're looking for quintessentially Swedish landscapes. This lush region is brimming with forests, lakes, and wildflower meadows. Plus, you’re sure to spot lots of those traditional red cottages that Sweden is known for.

In this natural haven you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horse riding. Or, seek out an expert and forage for wild fruits in the woods. You can also join in with the favourite local pastime of taking a refreshing dip in one of the region's lakes. Lake Siljan is a good choice for a swim.

Soak up the culture of Dalarna as you explore the villages and towns here, including Rättvik and Tällberg. To see how the famous Dala horse is made, head to the century-old Grannas Dala Horse Workshop .

Or time your trip for mid-June to celebrate the summer solstice with the locals and experience Swedish Midsummer traditions.

• Related: Summer in Sweden: what to do and where to go

5. Stockholm archipelago

Another of the top Sweden vacation spots you shouldn’t miss is the Stockholm archipelago in summer. As you might have guessed, this group of islands extends from the Swedish capital, making it an ideal place to explore on a day trip.

The Stockholm archipelago is made up of around 30,000 islands, scattered across the Baltic Sea. The region is home to sandy beaches, forested isles, steep cliffs and historical sites. 

Whether you drive or take a boat from the city, the Stockholm archipelago is a must-see during the summer months. Imagine sailing and kayaking the waters, hiking the island trails and discovering Viking history. There is so much to uncover here!

• Visit the islands of the Stockholm archipelago on a self-drive tour of Sweden

6. Österlen

Make your way to Österlen for sandy beaches, charming countryside and historical sites. This southern Swedish county lies in the wider Skåne province and boasts gorgeous scenery and quaint towns.

Wander along the cobbled streets of Ystad, admiring the medieval architecture and timbered houses. Then pick up organic local produce at farm shops as you pass through the countryside.

Be sure to spend some downtime at Sandhammaren beach. Here you'll find honey-coloured sands stretching over 12 kilometres (7.5 miles).

Another of Österlen’s must-see visitor attractions is Ales Stenar. This megalithic site comprises 59 stone boulders scattered in the shape of a ship, with views across the Baltic Sea.

• Related: Top Sweden road trips: ideas for scenic Swedish drives

7. Malmö

Sweden’s cities are pretty trendy, and Malmö is no different. First-class eateries, fascinating museums, and historical attractions await you in this southern coastal city.

Take a tour of the Renaissance-era Malmöhus Castle and the Malmö Art Museum for a taste of local heritage and culture. You could discover Malmö by boat, gliding through the canals admiring the city sights from the water.

And when you feel peckish, you can choose from an array of enticing restaurants and cafés at the Lilla Torg market. Then walk off your lunch with a stroll along the Western Harbour and Ribersborg beach.

Did you know:  It's easy to reach Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, from Malmö? The 8 kilometre-(5-mile)long Øresund Bridge links these two neighbouring cities by road and train.

• Discover Malmö as part of an independent train tour in Sweden

8. Abisko National Park

In winter,  Abisko National Park  is one of Sweden's best places to visit. Like Kiruna, Abisko is situated in the far north of the country, in Swedish Lapland.

This pristine area of natural beauty offers you the chance to soak up views of towering mountains, snow-dusted valleys, and frozen lakes.

On a  winter tour of Swedish Lapland , you could enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other exhilarating activities in Abisko National Park. Best of all, is the opportunity to catch sight of the northern lights.

We recommend you search for them at the Aurora Sky Station , perched atop a mountain in the national park. Its position gives you the ideal setting for watching the northern lights. Plus, you can also enjoy a delicious 4-course Nordic meal at the restaurant here.

On the other hand, head here in summer and you’ll have a totally different experience. The snow and ice give way to flower-filled valleys and endless daylight – a phenomenon known as the midnight sun .

• Related: Best time and place to see the northern lights in Sweden

9. Öland

Öland, Sweden’s second largest island after Gotland, has its own special charm. You can get to this Baltic isle by driving over the bridge from Kalmar in Southern Sweden.

When you get there, a diverse mix of historical attractions and natural sites await you.

Visit Solliden Palace, the summer residence of the Swedish royal family, and the 13th-century Borgholm Castle. Roam around the island, discovering ancient burial grounds and forts from the Iron Age as you go.

Enjoy walks or cycle rides in Öland’s countryside. There are with hundreds of kilometres of coastline to explore, and make sure to look out for the old windmills dotting the landscape. You’ll even find 75 (yes 75!) nature reserves on the island, including Ottenby which is a top spot for birdwatching.

• Discover picturesque scenery and towns on one of these summer tours in Sweden

10. Värmland

Immerse yourself in a lush landscape dotted with green forests, rolling hills, and around 10,000 lakes. This is what you can expect from a trip to Värmland, which borders Norway in central-west Sweden.

Discover one of Europe’s largest lakes, Vänern, and the attractive towns that line its shores. In Karlstad, the capital of Värmland, you could soak up the vibrant music scene and wander along the banks of Sweden’s longest river, Klarälven.

Meanwhile, in Kristinehamn you can admire the 15-metre-tall (49-foot-tall) Picasso statue, donated by the artist himself.

But the must-see cultural site in Värmland has to be Mårbacka. This is the home and workplace of Selma Lagerlöf , who in 1909 became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize for literature. Take a guided tour of the Mårbacka estate to learn about this prominent Swedish author.

• Related: 10 cool Swedish facts: what is Sweden known for?

If these top Sweden vacation ideas have inspired you to visit the country yourself, then Nordic Visitor can help. To get you started, take a look at these top Sweden vacation packages for an idea of the routes and sights you could experience.

Our Stockholm-based travel experts will use their insider knowledge to plan an unforgettable Swedish adventure for you.

This mean that when you book a trip to Sweden with Nordic Visitor, your dedicated travel consultant will take care of accommodation, transport, and any activities you want to do. All you need to do is relax and look forward to your getaway!

Get in touch  with our Sweden team to start planning your next break.

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

Getting there

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

COMPLETE SWEDEN

Lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel, best of scandinavia classic, related posts, top sweden road trips: ideas for scenic swedish drives.

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Sweden in Winter: What to Do & Where to Go

10 cool swedish facts: what is sweden known for, sweden in summer: what to do & where to go.

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Sweden Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Sweden?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Sweden

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 to 7-Day Sweden Itinerary

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

Day 1 – Stockholm

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Stockholm

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Sigtuna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Orebro 

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Orebro

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

Clarion Collection Hotel Borgen – If you’re looking for luxury in Orebro, then this hotel is an excellent choice. They have a range of plush rooms available, a fantastic location for exploring the city and a great restaurant on site (along with many other amenities).

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

Day 4 – Gothenburg

On the southwest coast of Sweden, you’ll find Gothenburg , Sweden’s second-largest city after Stockholm.

After enjoying a day in the city of Orebro, you’ll head about three hours away to Gothenburg on day 4. If you’re driving, consider making a detour to visit the charming town of Kalmar on the Baltic Sea and explore the historic center.

While Stockholm is easily the tourist center of Sweden, Gothenburg offers the best of Sweden without tourist crowds as well as tourist prices.

The city itself is full of Dutch-style canals (Gothenburg was mainly built by the Dutch), pure Scandinavian style, classic green boulevards, and a tremendously impressive food scene.

When in Gothenburg, I recommend checking out the 17th-century Domkyrkan (Gothenburg’s Cathedral), the hip and characteristic Haga neighborhood for lunch, and Slottsskogen, the city’s main park.

Gothenburg is full of a mix of sustainable and classically elegant architecture, and even just wandering around the city is a marvel in itself. If you’re looking to try a wide array of foods, head to the Saluhallen Food Hall to enjoy a tasty bite while marvelling at the architecture of the 1800s building. 

Where to Stay in Gothenburg

Hotel Royal – This hotel in the centre of Gothenburg is a great option for mid-range travelers. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a fantastic, central location and they also offer a wonderful breakfast each morning.

Hotel Pigalle – If you’re looking for a luxury escape in Gothenburg then you are sure to love this elegant hotel. There are a range of wonderful rooms to choose from, an excellent location for exploring the city and amenities like room service and more available for guests.

Slottskogens Hostel – Those visiting Gothenburg on a budget (or simply looking for a lively social atmosphere) will love this centrally-located hostel. They offer both dorms and private rooms and also have good common areas and self-catering facilities.

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

Day 5 – Southern Gothenburg Archipelago

The city of Gothenburg is in a unique location with 20 islands spanning Sweden’s western coast making up the Gothenburg Archipelago. The Gothenburg Archipelago consists of two parts; the northern archipelago, and the southern archipelago.

While both parts are worth the visit, the southern archipelago is better connected to the city and easier to access on a day trip.

Gothenburg’s Archipelago islands are one of the prime spots for Swedish local’s summer getaways and visiting one or two of the archipelago islands is the perfect way to experience what local life is like for Swedes spent by the sea, on the beach and under the sun.

The southern archipelago can easily be reached by Gothenburg’s public transport system in around 30 minutes and due to all of the archipelago islands being car-free, cars aren’t allowed on ferries so keep this in mind if you’re hiring a car during your trip.

Styrso Island is the main hub of the southern islands and is a great spot to head to during your day trip, you’ll find numerous places to swim as well as airy and pleasant cafes/restaurants throughout the island.

If you’re spending 5 days, today will conclude your Sweden travel itinerary. The best options are to continue onward by train if you’d like to see other destinations or make your way to Stockholm’s Arlanda Airport or Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport for your return flight.

From Gothenburg, there are numerous direct train services to each city, and directly to Copenhagen Airport.

Day 6 – Malmo

For those continuing to enjoy Sweden in 7 days, days 6 and 7 of this itinerary will bring you to the city of Malmo. The city of Malmo dates back to the 13th century and is the third largest city in Sweden located about a 3-hour drive or train ride away from Gothenburg.

Malmo is located in a unique location, on the southern tip of Sweden and just 30 minutes away from Copenhagen, Denmark across the Oresund Strait. The city of Malmo is a unique mix of urban industrial architecture, classic medieval architecture, and sustainable futuristic architecture all creating the center of the city.

Make a point to spend time at the 15th-century Malmo castle (the oldest surviving Renaissance castle in Sweden), stroll down the Sodergatan and maybe even visit the most unique museum you’ll come across, the Disgusting Food Museum . 

Where to Stay in Malmo

Mayfair Hotel Tunneln – This small hotel is located within a stone’s throw from Malmo’s train station and is the perfect base for exploring the city. They have many comfortable rooms to choose from and other amenities including an on-site bar and restaurant for guests to enjoy.

The More Hotel Mazetti – If you’d like to have your own flat in Malmo, then this aparthotel is an excellent option. Centrally located, this combines the convenience of having your own apartment with all of the amenities of a hotel. There are a number of fully-furnished and stylish flats to choose from.

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

Day 7 – Lund

While Malmo is an engaging city to visit in its own right, the city itself is quite small, so this leaves you with the perfect day trip opportunity to the university city of Lund.

Lund is a charming, cobblestoned medieval town known for having one of the best universities in the world and is just a short 15-minute train ride from Malmo Central Station. The city center is quite small but large enough to make a day/half-day trip out of by stepping back in time through the city’s quaint and studious old town.

Lund has an incredibly relaxed atmosphere and this itself makes one of Sweden’s oldest cities a great getaway from city life in Malmo. The spectacular Romanesque Cathedral of Lund is one of the most sought-after attractions in all the Nordics , and religious or not, the cathedral is a truly peaceful splendor to walk through.

If you’re looking for a unique experience on your Lund day trip and last day in Sweden, I highly suggest heading to Kulturen, an outdoor open-air museum/experience with replicas from medieval times through the 20th century. 

If you’re trying to sort out the most convenient option for a return flight from Sweden, Malmo is located on train lines with direct connections to Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport in just under half an hour. If it’s not feasible to return from Copenhagen, you’ll also find convenient routes to Stockholm Airport as well as Gothenburg Airport. 

Have More Time?

Perhaps you find yourself with more time beyond the 7 days of this Sweden travel itinerary. In that case, you’re in luck. Sweden is such a large country with plenty more interesting places and things to do, with varying unique options depending on the time of year.

If you’re a winter adventurer and are visiting Sweden in the winter, one of the best ways to enjoy Swedish winter is to head to the northern region of Swedish Lapland.

Witness the dancing, colorful aurora borealis in the arctic after a day of snowy activities and enjoy local Sami culture amongst locals and friendly animals. You can fly into the northern town of Kiruna and also opt to visit the incredible Abisko National Park.

If you’re visiting Sweden in the summer and would like to extend your trip with a unique location, the island of Gotland is a UNESCO Heritage Site located off the east coast of the Swedish mainland and the home of Pippi Longstocking.

Spend time in the city of Visby while wandering through its enchanting streets and corners of this fairytale Swedish island, a magical place without a hoard of tourists. 

You could also opt to spend a few more days in Stockholm and experience the sites and places close to the city.

There are plenty of reasons that Sweden is such a joyful destination that visitors long for and experience when they visit. The country itself is massive, offering a variety of adventures and experiences, the people are generous and kind, it’s one of the most forward-sustainable countries today and the towns bring you back to your childhood fairytale dreams.

After spending one week in Sweden, you’ll likely find yourself looking to come back soon to explore even deeper corners of this especially peaceful haven of a country.

Are you planning a trip to Sweden? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Is Stockholm Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Stockholm

Copenhagen or Stockholm: Which City to Visit?

The Perfect Malmo Day Trip from Copenhagen

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Thank you, Olivia. Sounds great! Very helpful article. This is my first visit to Sweden and I plan to travel alone and am on a mid range budget. Would you know the approximate budget for a 7 day trip for the itinerary you shared?

Hi Ujwala, have a look at our Sweden budget guide to help figure out costs for your trip 🙂 Glad you found this itinerary helpful.

Greatly helpful article for us who are planning a week long self-driving trip to Sweden in Sep. we will pretty much follow your itineraries, and try to see as many places as possible. We’ve been in Stockholm for a couple times but have not seen anywhere else in Sweden, so we’re excited about the trip!

I’m so happy you’ve found this helpful! Hope you have a great time in Sweden 🙂

Love your passion for travel and detailed itineraries.

Thanks so much for this itinerary. We love all of it and will avoid Gothenburg as we will see it as part of our biking trip on the west coast a week later. Is the island of Oland worth visiting as well as Gotland.

Appreciate your input. Have you also done an itinerary for Denmark?

I’m happy that you found this helpful! You can find our Denmark itinerary here 🙂

Yes am planning a trip to Sweden sometime in December and will likely spend my Christmas over there. That will be my first time in Sweden so I would really want to have a swell time while am there.

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The 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Sweden

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

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

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

1. Stockholm’s Archipelago

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

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

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

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

2. Gamla Stan in Stockholm

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

3. Höga Kusten – The High Coast

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

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

4. Gothenburg’s Archipelago and Bohuslän Coast

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

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

5. Lake Siljan

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

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

6. Gotland’s “raukar”

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

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

7. Kungsleden

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

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

8. Ales Stenar

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

9. Marstrand

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

10. Lake Vättern

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

11. Åreskutan

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

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

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

13. The IceHotel in Jukkäsjarvi

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

14. Rosendal’s Palace and Gardens

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

15. Tylösand Beach

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

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

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

*Currently these articles are available in English by Google Translate

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About Israel Úbeda

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

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

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

Feel free to read the provided link if interested.

Best regards

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

Regards, Israel

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

That’s where I live :D

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155 Places to visit in Sweden

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: March 9, 2024

Categories Sweden

Home / Europe / Sweden / 155 Places to visit in Sweden

In the last couple of years, I have traveled wide and far throughout Sweden, and to make things easier for future visitors, I have made this list of 155 places to visit in Sweden.

The list is divided into the three historical lands of Sweden, Norrland, Svealand, and Götaland. After each attraction, the region where it’s located is displayed next to the title.

Google Maps is usually very good to use while traveling around Sweden, as long as you have offline maps or internet access. Just enter the names of these places into Google Maps, and you will find them easily.

Places to visit in northern Sweden (Norrland)

Below, you will find attractions from different parts of Norrland where the following regions are included: Gästrikland, Hälsingland, Härjedalen, Jämtland, Medelpad, Ångermanland, Västerbotten, Norrbotten, and Lappland.

Själandsklinten (Ångermanland)

Själandsklinten is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden if you ask me. Sitting there at the top with endless views of the Swedish High Coast is like being in a real-life movie.

It’s located in Nordingrå, and the hike starts from “Gårdsbutiken i Höga Kusten”. It is a short but steep walk to reach the top from there.

Slåttdalsskrevan (Ångermanland)

Slåttdalsskrevan is a 200-meter-long and 7-meter-wide crevasse through Slåttdalsberget in Skuleskogen National Park.

It’s a mesmerizing place that really makes you feel small when gazing up at the cliff walls that are 30 meters tall.

Access to Slåttdalsskrevan is temporarily closed, but you can still take a picture and reach the end of the crevasse from both directions.

Rock carvings by Nämforsen (Ångermanland)

Nämforsen has one of Northern Europe’s largest rock carving areas with over 2,500 figures. It’s a lovely natural area to visit. Every year, the Urkult music festival is also held on the site, which then turns the site into a real folk festival.

Högakustenbron (Ångermanland)

The High Coast Bridge is a well-known landmark in Sweden that many have passed through the years since its inauguration. The bridge has a length of 1,800 meters and was inspired by the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

Högbondens fyr (Ångermanland)

Högbonden’s lighthouse is an old lighthouse that has been turned into a unique accommodation on the High Coast where you can spend the night in the old lighthouse keeper’s residence. It is the second-highest lighthouse in Sweden and the view from here is incredible.

Härnösands bilmuseum (Ångermanland)

The city of Härnösand is home to the largest car museum in Sweden with an impressive collection of vehicles from 1899 to 1990. There are over 220 cars on display in different rooms.

If you are interested in cars and other motor vehicles, you shouldn’t miss making a stop at Härnösands bilmuseum!

Market of Jokkmokk (Lappland)

Jokkmokk’s market is famous all over Sweden and is organized annually from the first Thursday to Saturday in February. In Jokkmokk you can also visit the main museum for Sami culture & history.

Tjuonavagge/Lapponian gate (Lappland)

Tjuonavagge, also known as the Lapponian gate, is a well-known attraction in Lapland that has been depicted countless times. It offers a beautiful sight all year round.

Rapadalen (Lappland)

Rapadalen is a beautiful valley in Sarek National Park. A magnificent wilderness experience awaits you here, including Skierfeklippan, where you get an incredible view of the valley.

Vaisaluokta kåtakyrka (Lappland)

Vaisaluokta church is built in the traditional Northern Sami style. It’s a charming little Sami church, which is located in the Sirge’s Sami village.

Kebnekaise (Lappland)

Sweden’s highest mountain is not only standing tall but it’s also one of the most spectacular places in Sweden. Of course, there are higher mountains to climb around the world, but there is something special about Kebnekaise!

Karesuando church (Lappland)

The church in Karesuando is a beautiful wooden church from 1905 which is also the northernmost church in Sweden.

Treriksröset (Lappland)

As the name suggests. Three kingdoms meet here, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Treriksröset is a popular attraction in Sweden that is quite fun to visit since you actually can travel between three countries in less than 1 minute.

Ice hotel in Jukkasjärvi (Lappland)

The Ice Hotel is one of the most famous places in Sweden and rightly so. It is a unique hotel since it’s built from ice every year. But make sure to book your stay in advance since it’s very popular, especially among international guests.

Kiruna kyrka (Lappland)

The church of Kiruna is one of the largest wooden buildings in Sweden. It was inaugurated in 1912 and its unique architecture has taken inspiration from the Norwegian stave churches.

Abiskojåkka canyon (Lappland)

A beautiful canyon in Abisko National Park where the mountain river Abiskojåkka rushes past all year round. From Naturum there is a path that takes visitors to the canyon. The trail is relatively easy to hike and has a distance of 1.2 kilometers one-way.

Gammelstad church town in Luleå (Norrbotten)

The city of Luleå was founded here at first, and that is why this place is named “Gammelstaden” which can be translated as the old town. Gammelstaden church town is listed as a world heritage site by Unesco, and it’s one of the most visited attractions in the region of Norrbotten.

You can join a guided tour while visiting for more information. There are also various events throughout the year, especially in conjunction with holidays in Sweden.

Treehotel (Norrbotten)

Treehotel is yet another unique hotel in Norrland. Visitors can come here and stay in a luxurious tree cabin by the treetops while at the same time having the luxuries of a standard hotel room.

Storforsen (Norrbotten)

Storforsen is one of Europe’s largest rapids with an enormous amount of gushing water all year round. A powerful nature experience in the municipality of Älvsbyn where you get to see the forces of Mother Nature up close.

Rödbergsfortet (Norrbotten)

For a long time, Rödbergsfortet was one of the most secret places in Sweden. This old fortress is part of the Boden fortress, which was built to withstand and protect this part of Sweden from invasions. Nowadays, visitors are welcome to visit and learn more about its function and what life was like for soldiers stationed here.

Kukkolaforsen (Norrbotten)

Kukkolaforsen is located on the border between Sweden and Finland in Tornedalen. During summer, it is popular to catch whitefish with a landing net from the river.

Jämtlandstriangeln

The Jämtland Triangle is a classic hiking trail in Sweden that has been designated as a signature trail by the Swedish Tourist Association. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or experienced, this is a pleasant hiking experience in Jämtland.

In total, the hiking trail is 47 kilometers, and Sylarna and Syltoppen are some of the places you will pass along the way. The first part goes from Storulvån to Sylarna. From there you walk onwards to Blåhammaren.

Fettjeåfallet (Jämtland)

Fettjeåfallet is an impressive waterfall with a height of 60 meters. It is located by Klövsjö and can be reached via a shorter hiking trail that is about 2 kilometers long.

Borgvattnet’s vicarage (Jämtland)

The old vicarage in Borgvattnet is said to be one of the most haunted houses in Sweden. It’s possible to stay overnight and you can even get access to paranormal measuring tools.

This old clergy house has been noticed internationally as well, by the likes of the New York Times among others, which has listed the vicarage of Borgvattnet as one of the most haunted places in the world.

Hällingsåfallet (Jämtland)

Hällingsåfallet thunders down an 800-meter-long canyon from a height of 42 meters. There is constant fog around the waterfall, which brings an everlasting humidity that allows rare lichens and mosses to thrive here.

Tännforsen (Jämtland)

Tännforsen is one of Sweden’s largest waterfalls with a width of 60 meters and a drop height of 37 meters. It is a popular attraction in Jämtland, located 20 minutes west of Åre.

Ristafallet (Jämtland)

Ristafallet is another impressive waterfall located near Åre. This waterfall is also known from the film Ronja Rövardotter, where Ristafallet portrayed Glupafallet.

Thailändska paviljongen (Jämtland)

The Thai pavilion is a unique place to visit in Sweden. The monument was built in honor and memory of the Thai King Chulalongkorn, also known as King Rama V.

He visited this place in Utanede and therefore the Thai pavilion has been built right here in Ragunda municipality. The monument is the only one of its kind outside of Thailand.

Myskoxcentrum (Härjedalen)

Muskoxcentrum is a non-profit organization in Härjedalen that protects the wild muskox tribe in Sweden. Here you can get close to this prehistoric animal in its natural environment at a reasonable distance.

The muskox center does a fantastic job of preserving the muskox by spreading knowledge and raising calves which are then released into the wild.

Sångbäcksfallet (Härjedalen)

Sångbäckfallet is easily reached after a short walk down stairs that lead one further down to the waterfall from the parking lot by the road. The waterfall is located just outside Vemdalen and is a bit of a hidden gem in Härjedalen.

Flatruet (Härjedalen)

The Flatruet road goes over the mountain Flatruet in Härjedalen and is the highest public road in Sweden. The height of the road reaches a maximum of 975 meters above sea level. Along the way, you get wide views of the mountains and a great chance to see reindeer.

Café Cineast (Härjedalen)

Café Cineast is a unique museum in Sveg where you can take part in a journey through time in the world of film. It is not only a café but also a film museum with old cinema posters and objects. Music from famous films can be heard from the speakers.

Sonfjällets nationalpark (Härjedalen)

Sonfjällets National Park is a popular destination in Härjedalen with lovely hiking trails that offer a sense of being in the wilderness as well as a wide biological diversity.

The national park is also an important stronghold for the Swedish bear tribe. The highest peak on Sonfjället reaches 1278 meters above sea level.

Bonnstan (Västerbotten)

Bonnstan is a historical attraction in Skellefteå. An old church town from the 17th century with a total of 116 church cottages that have been preserved since the great fire in the 19th century.

Idunn Wines (Västerbotten)

In Norsjö you can visit Idunn Wines, which is a unique winery that makes wine from blueberries and lingonberries. Join a guided wine-tasting tour where you get to taste and learn more about these special wines.

Lövånger kyrkstad (Västerbotten)

Lövånger church town is one of Sweden’s oldest church towns that has been preserved. A cultural treasure in Västerbotten that really comes to life during the summer and during church holidays. Visitors can rent a church cottage for overnight stays all year round.

Hälsingegårdar (Hälsingland)

7 old farms in Hälsingland (Hälsingegårdar) have received UNESCO World Heritage status. Around the landscape, however, there are thousands of preserved farms. These seven farms are Bommars, Erik-Anders, Fågelsjö Gammelgård, Gästgivars, Jon-Lars, Kristofers and Pallars.

Something that pretty much all “Hälsingegårdar” have in common is that they are incredibly beautiful with splendid decorations.

Avholmsberget (Hälsingland)

Avholmsberget is located above the lake called Norra Dellen. Here you get one of Hälsingland’s finest views. During the summer months, there is also a restaurant at the top.

Enåsens gruva (Hälsingland)

Enåsen’s mine is an old gold mine in Ljusdal municipality that closed in 1991. Nowadays, the place has become a tourist attraction who come here for its natural beauty.

However, it is not recommended to bathe or come into contact with the water as it contains metals that can potentially harmful. But it is a very beautiful place to see with your own eyes!

Orbaden Spa & Resort (Hälsingland)

On Hälsingland’s Riviera, located in Vallsta, there is this lovely spa hotel named Orbaden Spa & Resort, which has been named one of the best spa resorts in Sweden. From the infinity pool, you get a wonderful view and nearby there is also a beach where you can go swimming.

Oscarsborg (Hälsingland)

Oscarsborg is a 23-meter-high observation tower in Söderhamn that resembles a fortress. The tower is a popular attraction in Söderhamn from where you get a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape.

Trolska skogen (Hälsingland)

Trolska Skogen is located by the fishing village of Mellanfjärden. A living fairytale world awaits here where you can meet elves, trolls, witches, and other beings along the walk in the forest.

Trolska Skogen offers a theater experience to increase the children’s interest in culture and nature. A fun place to visit in Hälsingland when traveling with children.

Wij Gardens (Gästrikland)

Wij Gardens is a beautiful display garden in Ockelbo. There is also the option of staying overnight, and Wij Trädgårdskök serves well-prepared food made with organic ingredients from the garden. If you like flowers, cultivation, and plants, this is a lovely excursion to make in the region of Gästrikland.

Gävlebocken (Gästrikland)

The goat of Gävle (Gävlebocken) is a classic attraction in Sweden that is built up every year before Christmas. A tradition that goes back to 1966. In central Gävle, you can see the world’s largest straw goat in December, as long as it has not been burnt down.

Forsbacka bruk (Gästrikland)

The Forsbacka factory is located just outside Sandviken and is one of Sweden’s largest industrial monuments. Take a guided tour of the old ironworks and learn more about the iron handling that has been carried out here since the 16th century.

S:t Olavsleden (Medelpad)

St. Olavsleden is the northernmost pilgrimage route in the world. The entire trail is 58 Swedish miles and runs from Selånger in Medelpad to Trondheim in Norway, which in the past was known as Nidaros.

Merlo castle (Medelpad)

Villa Merlo, also known as Merlo Castle is a grand building that was built in the 19th century by Fredrik Bûnsow, who was a very wealthy man.

Merlo Castle is located just outside Timrå. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the park where you can see the castle from the outside.

Vildmarksvägen (Wilderness Road)

The Wilderness Road is a well-known attraction in Sweden that crosses the plateau of Stekenjokk between Jämtland and Lapland. The road is open to traffic between June 6 and October 15. The entire route is 500 km long.

Along the Wilderness Road, you pass sights such as Trappstegsforsen, bunkers from the Second World War, Hällingsåfallet, Brakkåfallet, Korallgrottan, Gaustafallet, Dimforsen and Fatmomakke church town.

Seeing the Northern Lights with your own eyes is a magical experience. You’ll never forget the first time you see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky.

It is one of nature’s wonders and undoubtedly one of our best sights in Sweden. Abisko is one of the best places in Sweden to see the Northern Lights, but generally, it is visible throughout the northern parts of the country during the winter months.

Attractions in Svealand

Below you can see places to visit in Sweden that are located in the Svealand region, which consists of the following regions: Dalarna, Närke, Södermanland, Uppland, Värmland, and Västmanland.

If you’re interested in the Viking era, Birka is one of the best places to visit in Sweden. It was an important site of trade during that period, and the area is quite well-preserved.

During the summer months, you can, among other things, hop on a Viking boat and go to Viking markets as well as watch shows where scenes from old Viking battles are recreated.

Dalhalla (Dalarna)

Dalhalla is a theater located inside an old limestone quarry. Every year, various concerts and shows are performed here in this unique setting.

Tomteland (Dalarna)

Tomteland is an amusement park in Dalarna located on Gesundaberget outside Mora. Here, one can visit several different fairytale worlds that have been built for visitors. A fun and exciting experience for the whole family where you can also meet Santa.

World’s biggest Dala horse (Dalarna)

In Avesta, you can see the world’s largest Dala horse. An iconic attraction in Sweden that many bypassers have stopped by to take a picture over the years. The Dala horse is 13 meters high and weighs 67 tonnes. Right now it stands where highways 70 and 68 meet in Avesta.

Njupeskär (Dalarna)

Njupeskär is Sweden’s highest waterfall and one of the best natural attractions to visit in Sweden. The entire waterfall is 125 meters long, of which the cliff itself is approximately 93 meters straight down. A breathtaking sight!

Nipfjället (Dalarna)

Nipfjället is an easily accessible mountain in Idre where it is possible to drive almost all the way up to the top by car. From the summer parking, it is only a short walk up to the top where you get fantastic views.

On the way up to the summer parking lot, one will also pass Trollvägen, where you can experience a unique phenomenon that can only be recreated in a limited number of places around the world.

Öster Silvbergs gruva (Dalarna)

Öster Silvberg’s mine is located just outside Säter. It is one of Sweden’s oldest mines where silver was previously mined. The mine is filled with water and no longer active. What attracts visitors today is instead the turquoise color of the water.

During the summer, many people come here to swim. However, it is not recommended to swim here due to health reasons, but it is still a beautiful place to visit.

Falu gruva (Dalarna)

Falu copper mine has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 2001. Visitors are welcome to take a guided tour down into the mine, 67 meters underground. Copper has been mined here for over 1,000 years.

Avesta Visentpark (Dalarna)

The Wisent Park in Avesta is one of Europe’s most important breeding facilities. Visitors have the opportunity to meet this prehistoric animal at a reasonable distance and at the same time support the important work of reintroducing European bison.

So far, Avesta Wisent Park has contributed by reintroducing six bison into the wild in Romania, and more bison are on their way to be reintroduced back into their natural habitat.

Anundshög (Västmanland)

Anundshög is located just outside Västerås and here, you can visit Sweden’s largest burial mound. Storhögen is nine meters high and in the same ancient monument area, there are also stone ships and rune stones to take a closer look at.

Kokpunkten Actionbad (Västmanland)

Kokpunkten is an action water park in Västerås with water slides, stream channels, and pools. A fun and fast-paced bathing experience awaits here for the whole family.

Kolarbyn (Västmanland)

Kolarbyn markets itself as Sweden’s most primitive hostel. A living experience characterized by silence and wilderness where you spend the night in the middle of the forest in a “kolarkoja”, without electricity or tap water.

Sala Silver mine (Västmanland)

Silver was mined in and around Sala as early as the 15th century. Today, there is none left in operation, but you can still visit the Sala Silver Mine and go underground. If you want to stay longer, you can also spend the night down in the mine in a hotel room.

Trästaden Nora (Västmanland)

Nora is a charming wooden town in Bergslagen with wooden buildings preserved from the 18th and 19th centuries. Here you can, among other things, go for a ride on an old steam train that runs on the oldest railway in Sweden.

Miniature Kingdom (Västmanland)

Miniature Kingdom is a unique place to visit in Sweden, located in Kungsör where a miniature world has been built with inspiration from various environments in Sweden.

In the miniature world, trains, trucks, and buses roll through different parts of Norrland, Stockholm, Västerås, Eskilstuna, and Örebro. A fun destination for the whole family.

Strömsholm Castle (Västmanland)

This magnificent baroque castle with an 18th-century interior in Gustavian style is located just outside Västerås. It is one of the royal castles and it is open daily for visitors who join a guided tour from June to September.

Ingbo källor (Uppland)

Ingbo Källor is located in Heby municipality. This place is famous for its springs with a magical blue-green color. The springs produce 4.3 million pieces of water every day and according to legend, whoever drinks from the water will get good health.

You can taste some spring water for free by the old mill. Try to come here on a sunny day if you want to experience the magical color of the water. The intensity of the colors can vary depending on how much the sun shines and from which angle.

Skokloster Castle (Uppland)

Skokloster Castle is often mentioned as Europe’s foremost Baroque castle. A grand castle located on the Sko peninsula by Lake Mälaren. During summertime, Skokloster Castle is open daily for visitors. In May and September, the castle is open on weekends.

Gamla Uppsala (Uppland)

During the Viking Age, Old Uppsala was a holy place. The museum has several original objects from the Viking Age. Visitors can also see the old King’s Mounds from the 6th century. At the Odinsborg restaurant, you can taste authentic mead as well.

Sigtuna (Uppland)

Sweden’s oldest city is of course also an excursion destination in Sweden that is worth a detour. Sigtuna is located only 45 minutes from Stockholm, and it’s one of the oldest cities in Sweden.

Viking Village Storholmen (Uppland)

During the summer and at special events throughout the year, Viking Village Storholmen opens up to visitors. Storholmen is an archaeological open-air museum with seven houses built using traditional building techniques from the Viking Age.

From the middle of July to the beginning of August, Viking Summer is organized where visitors can learn blacksmithing, wool crafts, and runic writing as well as view a reconstructed Viking boat.

Address : Varjagvägen 1, 761 73 Norrtälje.

Drottningholm Castle (Uppland)

Drottningholm Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also the permanent residence of the King and Queen. Both the park and the castle are open to visitors most of the year.

It is a royal castle from the 17th century with a magnificent castle park, which has contributed to giving the castle its nickname “Versailles of Sweden”, which then refers to the French palace in Versailles.

Wik’s Castle (Uppland)

Wiks Castle is an old defensive castle that was originally built in the 15th century. The castle is beautifully located by Lake Mälaren, about 2 miles southwest of Uppsala.

Nowadays, Wik’s castle is a popular place for conferences and you can also stay overnight. There is also a lovely nature trail next to the castle.

Örebro Castle (Närke)

Örebro Castle is a Renaissance castle that was originally built as a defensive castle in the 14th century. A well-preserved castle in central Örebro that looks more or less the same today as it did in the 19th century.

Lost City – Gustavsvik (Närke)

Lost City is one of Sweden’s largest water parks. An exciting swimming adventure awaits here for the whole family with six large and fast-paced water slides.

The pool is part of Gustavsvik in Örebro, which also has camping, adventure golf, and outdoor swimming. Tickets for Lost City are bought at the reception on-site and cannot be pre-booked.

Konst på Hög (Närke)

On Kvarntorpshögen in Kumla municipality, one can visit the sculpture park known as “Konst på Hög” with about 30 sculptures. During the summer months, theater performances and concerts are also organized.

Wadköping friluftsmuseum (Närke)

Wadköping is an open-air museum in central Örebro where you can see historic buildings with wooden houses and old farms. There are also small shops, museums, and cafés that are open all year round.

Stora Sundby Castle (Södermanland)

Stora Sundby Castle is a fairy-tale knight’s castle located near Eskilstuna. Unfortunately, the castle is not open to the public, but tours with a minimum of 20 people can be booked in advance.

Otherwise, you are free to stroll around the castle park, where you can buy a picnic basket from the castle café or visit the farm shop with locally produced goods.

Old town in Stockholm (Gamla stan)

Old Town is one of the most visited areas in Stockholm, and while tranquil today, this place was once where Stockholm’s blood bath occurred. Those events have led to many believing that the Old Town of Stockholm is haunted.

It’s a lovely place to go for a stroll and without the crowds, it’s surely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sweden, thus why I recommend getting up early in the morning to stroll through its various alleys and streets.

Stockholms Archipelago

Stockholm’s archipelago is an idyllic place that has gained international fame. Some of the most popular islands include Fjäderholmarna, Vaxholm, Utö, Sandhamn, Grinda, and Möja.

Vasamuseet (Stockholm)

The Vasa Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden and attracts visitors from all over the world. Here you can admire the ancient Vasa ship.

Gripsholms slott (Södermanland)

Gripsholm Castle is beautifully situated by Lake Mälaren in Mariefred. It’s a royal castle and one of the most visited attractions in the region of Södermanland.

The castle is particularly known for its large portrait collection, which contains famous portraits from the time of Gustav Vasa and onwards to modern times.

Tilas stoll (Värmland)

Tilas Stoll is an old horizontal mining tunnel on Högbergsfältet, located a short drive from Filipstad.

It’s quite a unique attraction in Värmland where you first crouch forward through the entrance before reaching the platform where you get this view, which looks like it was taken from a scene from The Lord of the Rings.

Diner 45 in Sunne (Värmland)

Diner 45 is an American-inspired diner where hamburgers, milkshakes, and fries are served. With its retro American decor from the 50s and 60s, it’s like stepping into an old American movie.

The hamburgers are also good and the prices are reasonable. If you drive past Sunne along the E:45, this is a fun stop that I can highly recommend.

Rottneros park (Värmland)

Rottneros Park is a sculpture park in Sunne with blooming gardens and a stunning old manor building. This place acted as a role model for “Ekeby” in Gösta Berling’s saga.

Tossebergsklätten (Värmland)

Tossebergsklätten features one of Värmland’s most beautiful views from a height of 343 meters above sea level. The top can be reached via a narrow serpentine road which also happens to be the steepest paved road in Sweden.

Båstnäs car cemetery (Värmland)

Båstnäs car cemetery is an odd attraction in Sweden that started in 1956 as a scrap yard. Nowadays, this is the largest car cemetery in Sweden with over 1,000 old cars, a majority of which are from the 40s and 50s.

Torsby ski tunnel (Värmland)

In Torsby, it is possible to go cross-country skiing all year round. This is the first ski tunnel in all of Sweden. The indoor course is 1.3 kilometers long and is suitable for both beginners and more experienced cross-country skiers.

Årjängstrollet (Värmland)

The troll of Årjäng is an odd attraction in the Swedish region of Värmland that is particularly popular with children. The troll is 8 meters high and it’s probably one of the largest troll monuments in the world. The tail of the Årjäng troll acts as a slide.

Attractions in Götaland

Below you can see places to visit in Sweden located in the following regions that belong to Götaland: Skåne, Blekinge, Halland, Småland, Öland, Gotland, Östergötland, Västergötland, Dalsland and Bohuslän.

Borgholm Castle ruin (Öland)

The castle ruin of Borgholm is one of the most popular attractions to visit on the island of Öland. The castle has stood here since the 13th century. During summertime, concerts are held inside the ruins and it is also possible to join a guided tour or to stroll around on your own.

Solliden (Öland)

Solliden is the summer residence of the Swedish royal family. This castle-like villa is located near Borgholm’s castle ruins and from May to October, the castle park is open daily for visitors with admission.

Byrums raukar (Öland)

Byrum’s raukar is a large area with “raukar” on Öland with around 120 rauks. It’s a wonderful place located in the north-western part of the island.

Böda Sand (Öland)

Böda Sand is one of the most famous sandy beaches and camping areas in Sweden. Every year, thousands of visitors make the “pilgrimage” to this beach and camping to enjoy the sun and go for a swim.

Gettlinge gravfält (Öland)

Gettlinge graveyard is an ancient site in southern Öland with a 30-meter-long shipwreck and over two hundred graves, from the Late Bronze Age and the Iron Age.

Karlevistenen (Öland)

The Karlevi stone is a well-preserved rune stone on the island of Öland. It has stood in the same place for over 1000 years and tells the story of a Danish chieftain named Sibbe the Wise.

Alvastra klosterruin (Östergötland)

Alvastra monastery is an old Cistercian monastery founded in the 12th century by French monks. During the 14th century, the monastery was connected to Saint Birgitta and her order.

What remains today are well-preserved ruins where you feel the wings of history when you stroll around the site.

Särtshöga winery (Östergötland)

Särtshöga vineyard is beautifully situated on the plains of Östergötland with a view of Omberg. Sparkling wine is produced here according to the méthode traditionelle, which means that the wine from Särtshöga is as close as you can get to Swedish champagne.

Visitors are welcome for overnight stays, dinner, and wine tasting. A cozy weekend destination for those who appreciate sparkling wine.

Vreta kloster (Östergötland)

Vreta Kloster was founded as a Benedictine nunnery in the 12th century. A few decades later, the monastery was converted to the Cistercian Order with the king’s sister Ingegerd as its first abbess.

Vreta monastery was active as a monastery until the 16th century. Today all that remains is a ruin and the beautiful monastery church, which is still open to visitors.

Vadstena (Östergötland)

Remains dating back to the Iron Age have been found here. In Vadstena you can visit the church and Vadstena castle, which has played an important role throughout Swedish history.

Rökstenen (Östergötland)

Rökstenen is a unique attraction in Sweden that you should not miss if you are interested in Vikings and rune stones. This runestone has the world’s longest runic inscription.

Trollegater nature reserve (Östergötland)

Trollegater is a large prehistoric cave in Östergötland where locals used to believe that trolls lived. The fissures in the original rock came about after earthquakes, which then became deeper in step with the uplift of the land.

The nature reserve is located 8 km west of Rimforsa in Kinda municipality. It is possible to book guided tours through the municipality, but you can also visit this place on your own.

Brändaholm (Blekinge)

Brändaholm is a charming area just outside central Karlskrona that has also become a well-known attraction in Sweden and has been printed on many postcards over the years.

It is located on Dragsö and during the summer it is possible to join a guided tour. The cottages of Brändaholm all have a uniform style in terms of color, size, and appearance.

Mörrumsån (Blekinge)

Mörrumsån is a beautiful stream in Småland and Blekinge that is particularly famous for its wild population of salmon. Already from the year 1231, there are written sources mentioning salmon fishing in Mörrumsån.

Every year anglers from all over the world come here to fish wild salmon. The Mörrum salmon fishing facility has around 250,000 visitors a year. The stream is surrounded by scenic hiking trails and walking paths.

Hjortsberga gravfält (Blekinge)

Hjortsberga gravfält is a well-preserved burial site in Blekinge, which is located just outside Ronneby. This burial field dates from the younger Iron Age and up to the Viking Age.

In total, there are around 110 ancient remains, including stone ships, stone burials, and burial mounds.

Sölvesborgsbron (Blekinge)

The Sölvesborg Bridge is one of Sweden’s longest bridges for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge is 760 meters long and connects central Sölvesborg with Listerlandet via Kaninholmen.

Drottningskärs Kastell (Blekinge)

Drottningskär’s castle is a fortification that was built in the 17th century. The castle is completely intact as it has never been shelled during its 300-year history.

Eriksberg Vilt & Natur (Blekinge)

Eriksberg Hotell & Safaripark is a unique attraction in Sweden that offers accommodation with a safari in a similar way as it’s done in Africa.

This is Europe’s largest game enclosure and visitors can see red deer, fallow deer, mouflon sheep, wild boar, and bison live wild in the open, protected from hunting & predators.

Ales Stenar (Skåne)

Ales Stenar is Scania’s version of Stonehenge. An old stone ship consisting of 59 different stones, the heaviest of which weighs as much as 5 tons. Excavations have shown that the site has been inhabited for thousands of years.

Kaffestugan Alunbruket (Skåne)

Kaffestugan Alunbruket is an idyllic place in the area of Österlen. This is Scania’s oldest coffee house and one of my favorite places to visit in Sweden.

Even today, home-baked goods and coffee are served using the same recipe that Grandma Hilda used when she started the food service in 1930. Nowadays, it is the third generation of the family that continues to run this charming café.

Kärnan (Skåne)

Kärnan is a medieval tower in Helsingborg that is open for visitors. With clear weather, you can see all the way to Helsingör on the other side of the strait.

Lunds Domkyrka (Skåne)

This church opened its doors as early as 1145 and is thus one of Sweden’s oldest churches. The Romanesque architecture has been preserved and the church was built during the times when Lund become the seat of the Nordic archbishop.

Castles in Scania

Scania (Skåne) has plenty of beautiful old castles. So many that they can fill a whole list of their own. Some of the most famous are:

• Bäckaskog castle
• Malmöhus
• Kronovall’s castle
• Trollenäs
• Glimmingehus
• Svaneholm castle
• Sofiero castle

Knäbäckshusens strand (Skåne)

Knäbäckshusen beach is one of Sweden’s most beautiful beaches. It is located in Österlen near Rörum and Stenshuvud National Park.

This beach resembles a tropical beach and could easily have been located in Thailand. The main difference is the climate and sea temperature.

Eslöv toy museum (Skåne)

Regardless of whether you are an adult or a child, it is worth visiting the toy museum in Eslöv. It is one of Sweden’s largest toy museums with thousands of toys from different eras.

Eslöv’s toy museum offers a nostalgia trip for all adults and an exciting experience for children. A fun family activity where you get the chance to show your children or grandchildren what you played with yourself as a child.

Tykarpsgrottan (Skåne)

Tykarpsgrottan is a unique attraction in Scania where a Christmas market is organized every year inside the cave, twelve meters underground. At other times of the year, the cave can be visited and you can join a guided tour.

Dalby church (Skåne)

Dalby church was built in the 11th century and is the oldest stone church in the Nordics. This is also one of Sweden’s oldest preserved buildings.

The central nave and the side nave have been preserved since the first church building which stood here for just over 1,000 years. Dalby church is open to visitors all year round.

Kalmar Castle (Småland)

Kalmar Castle is one of the most stunning Castles in Sweden and it has played an important role in Swedish defense history. The castle’s current appearance was created during the time of Gustav Vasa, but a defense tower was built already in the 12th century.

Kalmar Castle is open to the public with various exhibitions throughout the year. The staff is also wearing traditional clothing.

Teleborg Castle (Småland)

Teleborg Castle is located in Växjö. The castle was built at the end of the 19th century and has a fairytale-like architecture.

Nowadays, it is possible to stay overnight at Teleborg, which also features a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch of the day or à la carte.

Astrid Lindgrens värld (Småland)

Astrid Lindgren’s World is an amusement park in Vimmerby where everything is based on Astrid Lindgren’s fairy tales. Visitors can meet Pippi Longstocking, Emil in Lönneberga, The Brothers Lionheart, Karlsson on the roof, and Ronja Rövardotter.

A fun experience for the whole family that offers a nostalgic day for adults and a fun day for children. During the visit, you can also watch different shows and walk into different houses.

Åsens by (Småland)

Åsens by is a cultural reserve in Aneby municipality where visitors can travel back in time and see what life was like in Småland 100 years ago. It’s a perfect place to visit if you want to unwind and take a break from our modern and busy world.

Eksjö (Småland)

Eksjö is one of Europe’s best-preserved wooden towns with over 50 wooden houses that have been culturally marked. In the picturesque city center, there are many buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Glasriket (Småland)

Glasriket is the name of an area in Småland where the glass industry has been extensive since the 18th century. Nowadays, there are 13 glassworks and studio cabins that are open to visitors.

The unique art glass from Småland’s Glasriket is famous both in Sweden and internationally. At Kosta Glascenter you can also try your hand at glassblowing.

Granhult church (Småland)

Granhult’s church is Sweden’s oldest preserved timber building. The church was built in the 13th century, and today it’s a cultural treasure with a beautiful and charming interior.

Brahehus (Småland)

Brahehus is a classic attraction in Sweden that many vacationers have passed over the years. This old castle is located along the E4, about 3 kilometers north of Gränna.

From here you get a fantastic view of Lake Vättern and the surrounding landscape from a height of 270 meters above the sea.

High Chaparral (Småland)

High Chaparral is a Swedish theme park with an Indian and cowboy theme. A fun place to visit in Småland where the whole family gets the chance to pan for gold and experience a Wild West environment with associated buildings and shows.

A World of Dinosaurs (Småland)

A World of Dinosaurs is located just outside Kalmar, and it is the largest dinosaur museum in Europe with over 200 skeletons and a reputable collection of fossils from different eras.

Gamleby Trollskogen (Småland)

Over the years, Trollskogen in Gamleby has become a popular attraction in Sweden. The giant Garpe welcomes visitors to Garpedansberget where visitors can follow along a walking path that goes up to the top of the mountain.

In total, there are 87 sculptures representing various fairy-tale characters and beings. A fun activity is to try to find all the sculptures and see how many you manage to find.

Tanum Rock Carvings (Bohuslän)

In Bohuslän, there are around 1500 rock carvings, dating back to 1800-500 years BC. They are listed as a World Heritage site by Unesco and for those who like history, this is an interesting place to visit in Sweden that you should not miss.

Kungsklyftan (Bohuslän)

Kungsklyftan is known, among other things, from the movie Ronja Rövardotter. A mighty gorge that runs through Vetteberget. Walking under the wedged rock is a memorable experience that is both nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time.

Liseberg (Göteborg)

Liseberg is one of Sweden’s most visited attractions with around 3 million visitors every year. A theme park that has been open for visitors since 1923 with rides for all ages.

Throughout the year, various themes are also organized at the amusement park in connection with Christmas and Halloween. The Christmas market at Liseberg is usually viewed as one of the best Christmas markets in Sweden.

Smögen (Bohuslän)

Smögen is one of the most popular places to visit in Sweden and every year thousands of tourists come here during the summer months. A beautifully situated island with traditional red houses and lots of restaurants, cafes, and pubs.

The neighboring island of Hållö is also worth a visit with its old lighthouse and the beautiful swimming bay Marmorbassängen.

Pärlane strand (Bohuslän)

Pärlane beach is located in Bohus-Malmön on the West Coast. In my opinion, this is one of Sweden’s most beautiful beaches thanks to its fine-grained sand and unique appearance with a twin beach surrounded by crystal clear water.

Bohus fästning

Bohus fortress is a historical attraction in Bohuslän where many sieges have taken place over the years. The fortress was originally built in the 14th century to strengthen Norway’s border with Sweden.

During the Nordic Seven Years’ War, Bohus fortress was heavily besieged on six different occasions. Nowadays, it is a quiet place where visitors have the opportunity to explore the ruins that remain of the old fortress.

Ramsvikslandet (Bohuslän)

Ramsvikslandet is usually called the kingdom of the rocks and here you can enjoy a walk in a barren landscape with smooth granite outcrops.

Borrås Skåra (Halland)

Borrå’s skåra is a 10-meter-deep rock crevasse located just north of Varberg. During the Iron Age, the site was probably used as an ancient fortress.

The rock crevasse has a width of 1-2 meters and at the end, there is a large boulder wedged in place between the cliff walls. According to the legend, one should put a coin in a small hole in the mountain wall to pass safely.

Tjolöholm Castle (Halland)

Tjolöholm Castle is located on a peninsula in the fjord of Kungsbacka. The castle was built in English Tudor style and was completed in 1904. As a visitor, you can choose to explore on your own or join a guided castle tour.

You can also stay overnight or go for a stroll in the beautiful castle garden. Afternoon tea is another popular activity at Tjolöholm Castle.

Varbergs kallbadhus (Halland)

The cold bath house in Varberg is a well-known attraction in Halland that was built in oriental style in 1903. Here you can enjoy a plunge in the sea all year round with a hot sauna session afterwards.

Grimeton radiostation (Halland)

Grimeton radio station is a World Heritage site located just outside Varberg. Among other things, there is an electromechanical long-distance transmitter from the 1920s that is still fully functional today.

It was from here that Sweden communicated with the United States. This facility played a significant role in telegraph traffic across the Atlantic. As a visitor, you can learn more about the technology and the function of the facility.

Lagaoset (Halland)

Lagaoset is a lovely place in Laholm municipality where the river Lagan flows into the sea. The landscape is characterized by its beautiful beach with fine-grained sand that is surrounded by sand dunes.

Habo church (Västergötland)

Habo church is a relatively unknown attraction in Sweden despite being one of the most beautiful churches in Europe if you ask me.

There are countless impressive wood carvings and paintings on the inside. Habo church was consecrated in 1680.

Läckö Castle (Västergötland)

Läckö Castle is beautifully located out on Kållandsö by Lake Vänern. It is open to the public and various exhibitions and performances are organized every year. In the museum, you can also see old objects from the 17th century.

Göta Kanal (Västergötland)

The Göta Canal is a well-known attraction in Sweden that is also of historical importance as the canal has contributed enormously to Sweden’s development since it was built.

Göta Canal is 190.5 kilometers long and has a total of 58 locks that make it possible to travel all the way from Kattegat in the west to the Baltic Sea in the east by boat. It’s possible to experience Göta Canal by bike or boat.

Varnhems klosterkyrka (Västergötland)

Varnhem’s monastery church is a beautiful old church with unique architecture in Romanesque-Gothic style. The monastery church was consecrated in the 12th century.

In this place, the oldest traces of Christianity in Sweden have been found and as a visitor, you can really feel the wings of history when you stroll around.

Hornborgasjön (Västergötland)

Lake Hornborgasjön has become a popular place to visit in Sweden where you can see the annual dance of thousands of cranes. At most, over 20,000 cranes gather.

The highest number of cranes can typically be seen by the lake in the last week of March, or in the beginning of April depending on the weather.

Martorpsfallet (Västergötland)

Martorpsfallet is a waterfall at Kinnekulle that cascades along beautiful limestone formations. The waterfall has its largest flow during spring.

Visby (Gotland)

The city wall in Visby is a World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. Visby is also one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns from the Middle Ages.

Sankta Maria domkyrka (Gotland)

The cathedral in Visby was consecrated in the 13th century and was originally intended to serve as a guest church for merchants from Germany. After the Reformation in the 16th century, the church was elevated to a cathedral.

Rauks of Gotland

Gotland is widely known for its rauks. In the picture, you see a famous rauk area on the island of Fårö, which is particularly known for its iconic rauk called “Kaffepannan”.

Another well-known rauk area is Langhammar’s rauk area and Hoburgsgubben. Folhammar raukfält is another rauk area worth a visit.

Gute Vingård (Gotland)

Join a guided tour of the Gute vineyard, which has around 17,000 vines with the grape varieties Rondo, Solaris, and Phönix. You can also stay overnight.

Blå lagunen (Gotland)

The Blue Lagoon is an old limestone quarry in northern Gotland that is known for its crystal clear water that shimmers in turquoise and blue. It’s a popular place to go for a swim during the summer months.

Lummelundagrottan (Gotland)

The Lummelunda cave is a popular attraction on Gotland, which is located just north of Visby. It is one of Sweden’s longest caves, and it’s still largely unexplored.

As a visitor, you can join various tours in the cave. The tours are adapted based on age and how far into the cave you want to go.

Tingstäde kyrka (Gotland)

Tingstäde is one of Gotland’s oldest and largest medieval churches. The church was built in the 12th century and has had the same appearance since the 14th century. The height of the tower is a whopping 55 meters.

Kneippbyn (Gotland)

Kneippbyn is a well-visited tourist facility on the island of Gotland with a water park, hotel, camping, and carousels. Here you can also visit the real-life “Villa Villekulla”, which was used in the filming of Pippi Longstocking.

Akvedukten i Håverud (Dalsland)

The aqueduct in Håverud is a spectacular construction that attracts around 250,000 visitors a year from all over the world. Take a trip along Dalsland’s canal and see Håverud’s aqueduct up close.

Dals Rostock örtagård (Dalsland)

The herb garden Dals Rostock is a picturesque herb garden with around 350 plants. From May to September it is open to visitors with free entry.

The herb garden was established in memory of Johannes Henriksson, who was a prominent connoisseur in Sweden when it comes to medicinal plants.

Tresticklans nationalpark (Dalsland)

Tresticklan is a national park in Dalsland that is characterized by pristine forests and beautiful lakes. It is also the largest forested area that is roadless and undeveloped in southern Sweden.

Do you have more suggestions on places to visit in Sweden? Feel free to share your own favorites and leave a comment.

The best places to visit in Sweden: 2024 guide

Sweden isn’t just some tiny nation in the northern reaches of Europe. Geographically speaking, it’s huge: the distance between Sweden’s southern tip and Lapland’s far north is longer than the distance between London and Rome.

What to expect

Sweden is BIG, with wild and diverse landscapes that take in everything from rolling green countryside to dense forests, sprawling river valleys and frozen glaciers.

Despite this, most tourists (and indeed most Swedes) spend their time in the southern third of the country, which is home to the three largest cities.

Stockholm is perhaps Europe’s prettiest capital city, spread across a series of low islands and with an enviable location between the Baltic Sea and Lake Mälaren.

Gothenburg , over on the west coast, is a less showy alternative with an exciting cultural scene and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever catch sight of.

Both of these big cities have unspoilt archipelagos in their backyards, with sleepy islands – many of them car-free – providing a slow-paced alternative to life in the city.

Malmö , Sweden’s third-largest city, is proudly the most diverse place in the country, with an arty vibe and plenty of cool parks, shops and museums.

Nearby Lund , a pretty, low-key city with its roots in the Viking Age, is also worth a look around. Thanks to its rich history and a lively student population, it has more to offer than many Nordic cities double the size.

Other places worth visiting in the south of Sweden include Uppsala, a cathedral city with botanical gardens and ancient burial mounds, and Sigtuna, widely thought to be Sweden’s oldest town. Its medieval centre is a charming spot for shopping and slurping coffee.

Beyond the built-up areas, rural Sweden shines. Southern areas such as Skåne are home to fields of cornflowers and poppies, while in central parts of the country shimmering lakes abound.

Even for Swedes who have grown up around these landscapes, areas like Dalarna still hold a magical appeal – it’s not unusual for wealthy Stockholmers to have a cute red cottage in rural Sweden, which they make use of during the long summer break.

Further north you’ll find some of Sweden’s most spectacular national parks including Sarek, home to almost 100 glaciers, and Padjelanta, where you’ll spot countless wild reindeer.

Settlements in and around the Arctic Circle are small, fascinating… and invariably freezing. Try Abisko , one of the best spots on Earth for watching the northern lights , or Kiruna , a mining community that’s being rebuilt in the face of an existential crisis.

You won’t be able to squeeze everything that Sweden has to offer into a single trip, but by prioritising a few main areas you’ll be able to get a good feel for the country’s many sides in a couple of short weeks.

Need help deciding? We’ve been writing about Sweden for more than 15 years, and we think these are the best places to visit:

Stockholm Gothenburg Malmö Gotland The Far North Österlen Lund Dalarna Luleå The Bohuslän coast Ystad Jokkmokk Kiruna

Most visits to Sweden begin in Stockholm, and for very good reason. This is a beautiful, waterside city that will have you staring slack-jawed at skylines full of spires.

Even if you’re not a photography buff, we can guarantee that you’ll end up reaching for your camera over and over again.

You could easily spend a week or more checking out Stockholm’s many museums and boat trips, but there’s a lot to be said for just wandering around and getting a feel for the city’s rich history, as well as its famously cool shops, restaurants and bars.

The best way to get to know the old town well is to take a walking tour with a guide who knows all the insider knowledge and the best places to visit.  There are also some seriously unusual places to stay .

It’s true: a trip to the Swedish capital can work out to be pretty expensive. But as we’ve already proved, you can spend two full days there for less than £80 – that’s around $120.

The city is also overflowing with free things to do . Let Stockholm take up a few days of your life and you’ll probably fall in love.

5 things not to miss in Stockholm

• Gawp at the majestic 17th-century warship Vasa , which spent 333 years under water before being turned into Stockholm’s premier tourist attraction.
• Get lost among the narrow lanes of Gamla Stan , and then take a wander through the subterranean Medieval Museum or the opulent Royal Palace .
• Spend a night in one of the city’s kooky hotels or hostels – there’s an  elegant sailing ship , an old prison and even a converted Boeing 747 .
• Go bar-hopping with designers, musicians and fashionistas in SoFo, the city’s coolest neighbourhood, or hit Stockholm’s markets and food carts for some of the tastiest cheap eats in Sweden, including classics like meatballs and Baltic herring.
• Kick back in one of Stockholm’s neatly preened parks, or head out into the archipelago for a spot of sailing or wild swimming.

Sweden’s second-biggest city serves as a nice counterpoint to the glitz and glamour of the capital.

The locals are more laid back, for one thing, and it’s also cheaper and easier to explore than Stockholm, where high prices are a part of everyday life.

That’s not to say that Gothenburg isn’t glamorous in its own way: go beyond the ugly port’s tall cranes and shipping containers and you’ll find beautiful parks and gardens , as well as serene, car-free islands that harbour sleepy swimming spots.

Taking a boat cruise round the islands of the archipelago is one of our favourite things to do in Gothenburg.

For more about the Gothenburg archipelago, check out o ur guide to the best islands to visit .

There are other reasons for visiting the west coast’s main city. The wide streets are bursting with things to do in the summer or winter, from galleries and stately homes to whacky museums that really must be seen to be believed.

These days, Gothenburg is also home to some of Scandinavia’s best bars and restaurants . Period.

Add in the creative music and fashion industries, a bubbly local craft beer scene and a few hair-raising rollercoasters, and it’s easy to see why Gothenburg is one of the best places to visit in Sweden.

5 things not to miss in Gothenburg

• See the world’s only stuffed blue whale at the quirky natural history museum , then either ogle at some of the other oddball exhibits or chill out in Slottsskogen , Gothenburg’s best park.
• Top your caffeine levels up in the showpiece neighbourhood of Haga, home to cute wood-and-stone houses and some of the cosiest cafes you could ever hope to fika in.
• Get white knuckles at Liseberg , Scandinavia’s biggest and best theme park. Try rickety Balder, a nerve-jangling wooden coaster, or get a 360-degree view of the city from the aptly named Atmosfear  ride – it’s 116 metres high. The Gothia Towers hotel has views over the theme park.
• Discover West Sweden’s rural charms on a road trip into the countryside. With old-fashioned petrol stations and American-style diners to stop at along the way, the intriguing retro road is well worth following.
• Chomp your way through mounds of freshly caught prawns, crayfish and lobster at one of the city’s amazing seafood restaurants.

A former fishing town, Malmö is now Sweden’s third largest city and the country’s most cosmopolitan and culturally diverse community.

Its cobbled old town square was once Europe’s largest market square, and the city is still known today for its lively shops , restaurants, cafés and bars. In 2024, it got a taste of international fame as the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest.

If you want to stay, we like the eco-friendly More Hotel Mazetti with comfortable self-catering studios in a converted former chocolate factory.

For more on what to do in Malmö on a budget, see our guide to 22 free things to do in Malmö .

5 things not to miss in Malmö

• Check out the Turning Torso. Malmö is home to the striking Turning Torso, Scandinavia’s highest skyscraper, designed by top architect Santiago Calatrava.
• See the city’s sights on a fun canal boat trip .
• Take a day-trip to Denmark. Cross the famous Øresund Bridge and spend the day in Copenhagen, just a short train or bus trip away.
• Explore the city by bike. Malmö is well set up for cyclists, so rent a bike and travel around like the locals do.
• Visit the Disgusting Food Museum . Sample Surströmming – the world’s stinkiest food – and see fermented shark and dried insects at this quirky, fun and frankly quite disgusting museum!

For many Swedes summer means a trip to Gotland, Sweden’s biggest island. Marooned in the Baltic, it’s a laid-back haven with some of the country’s best weather, not to mention stunning sandy beaches, and thick forests that seem to have been made for hiking and biking.

Given its strategic location, it’s not surprising that Gotland has a long and turbulent history. The medieval town of Visby, the island’s main settlement, is like something straight out of Game of Thrones, and items from the Viking Age are regularly dug up across the island.

A fun way to see Visby and learn all about its history is on a hop-on, hop-off open-top bus tour .

Today Gotland also hosts Sweden’s biggest political event, Almedalsveckan , as well as a weeklong medieval festival.

What else makes Gotland one of the best places to go in Sweden? Oh, just the mesmerising freshwater lakes, the weird stone formations, the deep caves, the dingy bars and the oh-so handsome gardens…

5 things not to miss in Gotland

• Head underground at Lummelundagrottan , a vast cave discovered by three teenage boys in 1948. When you’re done with admiring the stalactites and stalagmites, explore the nature trails that start near the cave’s entrance.
• Unleash your inner knight at Visby’s medieval week (Medeltidsveckan) , which takes place in August. Expect jousting, concerts and lot of people in silly costumes.
• Wake up to spectacular sea views when camping at Visby Strandby , just outside the old city walls. Or, for more comfort, we love the Donners Hotel within the medieval town walls in the heart of the UNESCO Heritage city.
• Head to the neighbouring (and much smaller) island of Fårö, once home to Swedish director Ingmar Bergman, and marvel at the eerie, wave-gnarled sea stacks at Långhammars.
• Hire a bike and discover out-of-the-way cafés and swimming holes, as well as farm shops selling local produce. Gotlandsleden, one of many well-pedalled routes, is a 500km epic that skirts the entire coastline.

The far north

Sweden’s far north is home to some of Europe’s most thrilling landscapes. In winter, great rivers and waterfalls freeze to a halt, and vast forests bend under the weight of too much snow.

When summer sun finally makes things melt, the whole region bursts into life – wild flowers bloom in the valleys, mosquitoes buzz through the air, and the weather can actually get quite warm.

Getting to Lapland takes some effort, but the rewards are easily worth it. The big draw for many is seeing the northern lights, which are (in theory, anyway) visible across the entire region.

Even without the lights, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. Go moose-spotting , try skiing under the midnight sun, or spend a night at the famous Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi.

This is also one of the best parts of Sweden for hiking, camping and wildlife spotting thanks to the abundance of wilderness areas.

5 things not to miss in northern Sweden

• Tackle the epic Kungsleden hiking trail, which snakes through some of the country’s most magnificent mountain scenery. The entire route is a whopping 425km long, but signposts and simple cabins built for overnight stops make it possible to take on bite-sized sections. For more on this epic trail, read our guide to Hiking the Kungsleden .
• See the northern lights . No matter how many pictures you’ve seen, nothing will provide you for seeing the aurora up close and personal. The area around Abisko is the ideal place to base yourself.
• Drink beer as you roast yourself in a traditional wood-fired sauna, then dive into a lake or roll around in the snow – clothing optional . This is about as Swedish as it gets.
• Try dog sledding . Snowmobiling is fun, but nothing beats the quiet serenity of whizzing over lakes on the back of a sleigh pulled by a pack of happy huskies.
• Go wild. National parks like Abisko and Sarek are phenomenally beautiful wilderness areas, but you’ll need some serious outdoor knowledge (or a professional guide) to explore safely, especially in winter.

Tucked away in the southeast corner of the country, the picturesque region known as Österlen is a long-standing favourite among holidaying Swedes. Somehow, though, it’s remained off the radar for international visitors.

Go in the summertime to browse the many small art galleries and farm shops that throw open their doors to visitors, or to sunbathe and swim at the pristine sandy beaches that skirt the Baltic coast.

The culinary scene in this part of Sweden is rapidly picking up pace, and you’ll find that even middle-of-nowhere hotels and restaurants are adept at turning seasonal, locally grown ingredients into kick-ass lunches and dinners.

Fishing is also a big deal, and locally caught sea trout often makes it onto menus.

5 things not to miss in Österlen

• Visit some of the small, independent galleries run by local glassblowers, painters and sculptors. Some artists even open up their homes for visitors during events like Konstrundan , which takes place in the spring.
• Go paddling at the marvellous sandy beach in Knäbäckshusen. On a sunny summer’s day it looks like it’s been imported straight from Thailand or the Philippines. For more on Sweden’s best beaches, click here .
• Drop by one of the roadside farm shops for locally grown asparagus, apples and wild strawberries, or whatever else is in season when you visit.
• Visit Glimmingehus , the best-preserved medieval manor house in all of Scandinavia.
• Check into a spa hotel for some pampering. Kiviks Hotell has lovely sea views, as well as hot tubs, saunas and massage rooms.

Lund often gets overlooked as tourists rush through southern Sweden on their way to or from Copenhagen.

But this seriously ancient city has been around since the time of the Vikings, and is one of the best places to visit if you want to get your head around the entire region’s history.

The central part of Lund is full of handsome (and sometimes very wonky) buildings, and there are museums covering everything from old rune stones and weapons to quirky modern art.

This self-guided walking tour explores the city’s history and takes you round the main sights, with a real-life historical murder mystery to solve too.

Or, rent a bike for a ride through the cobbled streets and pretty parks and you’ll soon soak up lots of sights.

The local uni is a bit like a Swedish version of Oxford, and it helps to keep the average age of the citizens here quite low. Happily, there are a correspondingly high number of bars and pubs.

And you don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun in Lund: here are some ideas for free things to do in Lund .

5 things not to miss in Lund

• Try cycling your way along an old railway line on one of these bizarre bike–train contraptions . The scenery is lovely.
• Admire Lund’s grand cathedral and the gloomy crypt beneath it, and then chill out in the surrounding parkland. Across town, a separate and now ruined church is completely underground.
• Check out the weird and wonderful objects kept in the ‘curiosity room’ at Lund’s history museum , including Egyptian gems and a bunch of tools from the South Pacific.
• Fika (drink coffee and natter with friends) at one of Lund’s cool cafés, many of which are housed in historic buildings.
• Get a masterclass in modern art at the splendid Museum of Sketches .

Red cottages, blue lakes, and verdant pine forests: if you want a glimpse of the ‘real’ Sweden, the central province of Dalarna should be high on your list of places to visit.

Nowhere else in the country matches it for picture-postcard beauty, and during the summer it’s a favourite holiday retreat for Swedes, who come for a bit of swimming, camping and sightseeing.

The best base for exploring Dalarna is Siljan – a vast blue lake edged by laid-back towns such as Mora, Rättvik and Leksand. Most have beaches, waterfront restaurants and campsites where you can hire kayaks for splashing around on the lake.

We like the Nås Camping Dalarna with tent pitches and pretty wooden cottages to rent, by the river Västerdalälven.

There are lots of other things to do in the area including a bear park (this area is home to many of Sweden’s brown bears) and a bunch of museums, some showcasing the work of local artists.

If you want to know about the region’s iconic red houses, read our guide to Where Sweden’s cottages get their colour.

5 things not to miss in Dalarna

• Ride the scenic Inlandsbanan railway, which cuts through the very centre of Sweden, calling at Mora and Orsa.
• Watch the frantic climax of the gruelling Vasaloppet ski competition, which finishes in Mora. Taking place annually on the first Sunday in March and covering an incredible 90km, it’s the world’s longest race for skiers.
• Witness rural Sweden’s obsession with 1950s American culture at Rättvik’s Classic Car Week, when hundreds of old Cadillacs and Mustangs take to the streets.
• Swim, sail or kayak on Lake Siljan, then spend lazy summer nights barbecuing by the shoreline.
• Head to Zornmuseet to see works by Swedish artist Anders Zorn, who was born in Mora and spent a lot of time painting pictures of lakes and naked ladies.

The north’s coolest city is fast becoming a hub for technology and culture, with a disproportionate number of galleries and design shops.

Facebook has a data centre in Luleå , which has helped to give the place a cosmopolitan feel – well, for northern Sweden, anyway – and there are also some decent dining options.

If you have time left over after exploring Luleå itself, there are a few great little day trips nearby.

5 things not to miss in Luleå

• Explore the Unesco-listed church town , where the cute streets are lined with wooden cottages.
• Go sailing, kayaking or kite surfing in the vast archipelago, which is home to more than 1300 islands.
• Learn about life in the north (and grab cup of good coffee) at Norrbottens Museum .
• Head to the free exhibitions at Kulturens Hus to check out works by hotly tipped Swedish artists and designers.
• Treat yourself to a night at Clarion Sense , one of the region’s flashiest hotels – or just grab a cocktail in its panoramic ‘sky bar’.

The Bohuslän coast

The stretch of coast from Gothenburg north up to the Norwegian border is dotted with almost 8000 islands, countless coves, beaches and pretty fishing villages. 

Running around 280 kilometres up Sweden’s western side, the Bohuslän coast is a rugged picturesque stretch of seashore

that is popular with Swedish holidaymakers but little-known outside the country.

Fishing, sailing, swimming, kayaking and walking are all popular activities here, and it’s easy to see why Swedes head her over the summer months.

Connected to the mainland by bridges, the island of Marstrand is a former fishing community that is now frequented by sailors and makes a great base from which to explore this coastline. 

Its main town, also called Marstrand, has pretty cobbled streets, a lively harbour front and a 300-year-old castle, now a B&B that you can stay in .

Along the coast, Sweden’s third largest island Orust is a perfect place for walking, cycling, sailing, kayaking and even having a dip at one of its secluded swimming spots.

North of here, Fjällbacka is the location of the best-selling, atmospheric Fjällbacka series of crime novels and birthplace of their author, crime writer Camilla Läckberg. If you want to stay we suggest the Bryggan Fjällbacka , overlooking the waterfront. 

For more on the Bohuslän coast, see our guide to the best places to visit on Sweden’s west coast .

5 things not to miss on the Bohuslän coast

• Kayak around Sweden’s oldest national marine park, Kosterhavets. Take a guided tour or rent your kayak and paddle round the offshore islands, remote beaches and waterways of the national park.
• Explore Fiskebackskil, one of the Bohuslän coast’s prettiest villages on the island of Skaftö. We think the Slippens Hotel by the harbour makes a great base from which to explore the island’s beaches and walking trails or to take a boat trip. 
• Eat seafood in Strömstad. Up near the Norwegian border, Strömstad is Sweden’s seafood capital with plenty of restaurants serving lobster, crab, crayfish and langoustine straight from the sea.
• Take a boat trip out to the deserted Väderöarna Islands, Sweden’s westernmost island group – look out for seals on the way.
• Walk or cycle the long-distance Kustigen coastal path, that runs the length of Sweden’s west coast and takes in the beautiful Bohuslän coast.

One of Sweden’s most southerly towns, Ystad is a pretty, well-preserved place with cobbled streets and brightly coloured timbered houses.

This medieval town lies on Sweden’s south coast, surrounded by sandy beaches and the flat, brooding landscapes of Skåne county.

We love its picturesque main square, and the maze of cobbled streets that wind around it lined with tiny medieval cottages.

Ystad is also a port town with regular ferry connections to Poland and to the Danish island of Bornholm.

But probably the Ystad’s main claim-to-fame is as the home of troubled detective Wallendar in the highly successful books by Henning Mankell, films and TV series.

5 things not to miss in Ystad

• Stay in Wallender’s police station. Previously the town’s train station, the comfortable and stylishly converted Station B&B , is the building that was used as location for the police station in the Wallander TV series.
• Chill on the beach. The town beach is a long stretch of white sand that runs east for 4km and is backed by a nature reserve.
• Cycle to the enigmatic monoliths of Ales Stenar. This g uided bike tour takes you through pretty countryside to see the ancient stones, which were Wallender’s favourite place of contemplation. 
• Take a day-tip to Denmark. The pretty island of Bornholm is just 1hr and 20 minutes away by high-speed ferry, and is known for its tasty fish and local cuisine.
• Channel your inner detective. A fun way to explore the town is with this self-guided Wallandar walking tour . Solve clues to the murder mystery, while visiting and learning about the town’s sights on the way.

Just inside the Arctic Circle, the town of Jokkmokk is the centre of the Sami community in Swedish Lapland.

For more than 400 years, Sami people have met here every February for the annual Jokkmokk market. 

Originally, the Sami came here to trade and meet their kin, but today it’s also a celebration of the colourful Sami culture, food and traditions.

Even, outside of market time, look out for Sami people dressed in their brightly-coloured traditional clothing in town. If you want to stay, we love the Peace and Quiet Hotel , where you can sleep in a floating glass-roofed room on the lake.

5 things not to miss in Jokkmokk

• Watch the reindeer races over a frozen lake during the annual Jokkmokk Great Winter market (one of Sweden’s oldest markets) in February.
• Buy Sami handicrafts. Jokkmokk is a great place to get authentic Sami arts and crafts: read Shopping in Jokkmokk for our favourite places to buy Sami souvenirs.
• Learn about the Sami culture and traditions at Ajtte . We love this informative museum that tells the story behind the region’s indigenous people and their land. 
• See the midnight sun. Since Jokkmokk is just north of the Arctic Circle, it’s possible to see the midnight sun for 32 days of the year (from early June to early July).
• Take the Inlandsbanen. In summer the scenic inlandsbanan train runs all the way along the length of Sweden from Kristinehamn in the south up to Gällivare in the north, stopping at Jokkmokk en route.

It may not be the most picturesque town in Northern Sweden, but the mining town of Kiruna makes a great jumping-off point for winter sports, exploring rural Lapland and getting out into the wilderness of northern Sweden.

It’s also fascinating because the town is currently being moved building by building some three kilometres to the east due to massive subsidence cause by the iron ore mining industry.

If you want to stay, we suggest Camp Ripan just outside town with cabins in the woods, an outdoor hot tub and spa. 

5 things not to miss in Kiruna

Whatever you may think about the ethics of the mining industry, there’s no denying that this is a mega feat of engineering.

• Go husky-sledding. Learn how to be a “musher” and drive your team of dogs over the snow.
• Take a snowshoe trip. This fun snowshoe trip takes you out over a frozen lake where you can try a spot of ice-fishing. 
• Go underground on a mining tour , and learn all the workings of the mine.
• Get the best pics of the northern lights on this guided tour with a professional photographer .
• Visit the ice hotel. It’s an easy day-trip to the world-famous Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi , which is rebuilt every year from the frozen blocks of ice from the nearby frozen river. 

Need more tips? Check out our destination pages !

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Göteborg sooooo much better from Stockholm more beautiful and friendly so more places to visit and see and cleaner, I visited both

This is a super informative article on sweden. very well done. i read about places and have swede blood but do not travel. thanks…

We are heading back to beautiful Mora in Dalarna on February 1st. We have visited many times and it truly is a magical place. We will then be heading up to Idre in northern Dalarna for some real “off the beaten track” lodging and a variety of winter sports. If you have never been to Sweden, make the province of Dalarna a must. You will not regret it!

Thanks Gavin, hope you enjoy Dalarna – it is beautiful!

How do you get there ?

Thank you for this great post, you are doing a fantastic job! I am planning a trip to the Nordics for this summer and find your posts to be very organized, informative, and well-written. Cheers!

Thank you so much for your message! It really is appreciated and I’m glad you’re finding the guides useful 🙂 Have a great trip!