From sleek, modern cities to fairy-tale forests and frozen Arctic landscapes, Sweden is a destination that offers a perfect mix of nature, design, and rich Scandinavian culture.
Located in Northern Europe, it’s part of the beautiful Nordic region and shares borders with Norway and Finland – and is just a short hop across the Baltic Sea from Denmark and the Baltic states.
With a fascinating royal history, a love of minimalistic design, and an undeniable connection to nature, Sweden feels effortlessly stylish and deeply rooted in tradition at the same time. Think fika (coffee breaks), forest hikes, summer archipelago escapes, and cosy candlelit cafes during the long winter months.
Whether you’re wandering the medieval streets of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan, spotting the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland, or sailing between islands in the Gothenburg archipelago, Sweden is a place that brings calm, curiosity, and that understated Scandi magic.
Just a heads-up: This guide includes a few affiliate links. That means if you decide to book something I recommend, I may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. I only ever share things I’ve genuinely loved and think you will too!
📍 Top Places to Visit:
- Stockholm – Sweden’s chic capital, spread across 14 islands with museums, galleries, and gorgeous waterfront views.
- Gothenburg – Laid-back and creative coastal city known for its seafood and design scene.
- Kiruna & Abisko – Gateway to Swedish Lapland, ideal for seeing the Northern Lights or staying in an ice hotel.
- Malmö – A blend of old and new, just across the bridge from Copenhagen.
- Visby (Gotland) – Medieval walled town perfect for summer visits and historic charm.
- Åre – Sweden’s top ski destination and a year-round hub for outdoor adventure.
- Uppsala – Historic university city with a laid-back vibe and impressive cathedral.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (March–May) – Quieter, cooler, and perfect for city breaks or hiking in the countryside.
- Summer (June–August) – Long days, mild weather, and buzzing cities – perfect for hiking, island hopping, and outdoor cafés.
- Autumn (September–November) – Quieter, cooler, and perfect for city breaks or hiking in the countryside.
- Winter (December–February) – Ideal for snow activities, dog sledding, and aurora spotting in the north.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
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Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK)
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Sweden has a cashless society – card payments are accepted everywhere.
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Meals at mid-range restaurants cost around £15–25.
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Public transport is efficient and clean, but taxis can be pricey – use buses, trains or trams where possible.
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Consider a Stockholm Pass for free entry to museums and transport savings.
🧳Good For:
Design lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
Nature lovers wanting lakes, forests, and snowy escapes.
Culture and history buffs, particularly Viking history and royal heritage.
Travellers who love stylish cities with a strong eco-conscious ethos.
- Solo Travellers
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try:
- Köttbullar – Classic Swedish meatballs with lingonberry jam and creamy mash.
- Gravlax – Cured salmon often served with mustard sauce and dill.
- Räkmacka – Open prawn sandwich, often topped with boiled eggs and mayo.
- Semla – Cream-filled cardamom bun traditionally eaten in February.
- Kanelbulle – Swedish cinnamon bun, best enjoyed during fika.
- Surströmming – Fermented herring (an acquired taste!) – more of a cultural experience!
✈️ How to Get There:
- Major Airports: Stockholm Arlanda (ARN), Gothenburg Landvetter (GOT), Malmö (MMX)
- Direct flights from major UK cities take 2–3 hours.
- Trains and long-distance buses also connect Sweden with Denmark, Germany, and Norway.
🚍 Getting Around:
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Sweden has an excellent train network
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City transport includes metros, trams, buses, and even ferries.
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Consider the SL travel card in Stockholm for unlimited use on public transport.
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Bike hire is popular and easy in most cities.
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette
- Language: Swedish. English is widely spoken, especially in cities.
- Swedes value personal space, punctuality, and quiet public environments.
- Remove shoes when entering someone’s home.
- Tipping isn’t required but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated.
- Embrace fika – a cultural ritual of pausing for coffee and cake with friends or colleagues.
My Sweden Highlights
Sweden holds a truly special place in my heart – it was the destination for my very first solo trip. That journey gave me the confidence I needed to travel alone, and it’s an experience I’ll always treasure. (If you’re thinking about your own solo adventure, you can read more in my post: Solo Travel Tips: Advice for First-Time Adventurers).
My trip began in Örebro, a charming city that struck a perfect balance between history and modern comforts. Even though I visited in December and the city was blanketed in snow, the winter charm only added to the experience. The quiet green spaces, pretty old town, and friendly locals made it an ideal place to ease into solo travel.
From Örebro I was able to venture into Stockholm for the day. When I arrived in Stockholm, I was struck by how safe and welcoming it felt. I spent time wandering through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s atmospheric old town. The narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and historical charm made it a joy to explore on foot.
One of the highlights was a Boat tour through the city’s waterways – the perfect way to admire Stockholm’s stunning architecture and unique island layout. I also visited the ABBA Museum (because, of course!) – a fun, interactive spot that’s great whether you’re a lifelong fan or just looking for a feel-good moment.
A surprise favourite was Stockholm’s underground metro system, known as one of the world’s longest art galleries. The colourful, creative installations on many of the station platforms made getting around feel like part of the sightseeing experience.
And let’s not forget the fika breaks – no visit to Sweden would be complete without sampling local pastries.
Sweden made a lasting impression on me. Between the snowy landscapes, warm hospitality, and calm atmosphere, it’s a country I’ll always recommend – especially for solo travellers. And I already know I’ll be back again someday to explore more.
You’ll find a curated selection of the best activities and tours in Sweden below – from museum passes, archipelago boat trips, and unique food experiences.
👉 Find things to do and secure your spot with trusted local providers.
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