Explore Amazing Road Trips in Sweden with GoTravelDaily
With rich history, vibrant traditions, and glorious nature everywhere you look, Sweden is made for road trips. The country’s comprehensive network of highways and secondary roads is well maintained, and even dirt roads tend for the most part to be relatively smooth gravel and dust rather than suspension-jolting rutted tracks. While many attractions are accessible by public transportation, one of the joys of a Swedish road trip is all the unexpected discoveries along the way, from secluded lakes to endless views, charming cities and towns, to archaeological sites dating back a thousand years. Here are nine driving routes that showcase the best of Sweden.
Best Arctic Road
Kiruna to the Norwegian Border
Kiruna-Riksgränsen and Back; 163 miles (262km); allow at least a day
Mountains, lakes, and forests are the main attractions on this gorgeous 82-mile (131km) stretch of route E10, one of the most northerly roads in Sweden. The road hugs the south shore of Torneträsk, Sweden’s largest alpine lake, passing through Abisko, one of the jewels of the national park system, and providing excellent views of Lapporten, the region’s iconic U-shaped mountain.
Unless you’re also planning on visiting Norway, you’ll have to turn around at Riksgränsen and drive back the way you came — no hardship, since even the most panoramic view looks different in the opposite direction. You can easily make the round-trip drive in a day, but if you’ve got time, spend at least a night or two in the Abisko area to experience the national park.
Best Road Trip for Wild Alpine Scenery
The Wilderness Road
Strömsund-Strömsund; 310 miles (500km); 2-7 days
This route makes a circuit through one of Sweden’s most spectacular alpine wilderness areas. Starting in Strömsund, drive clockwise past a string of sparkling lakes and rushing rivers before climbing onto the Stekenjokk plateau, 2884 feet (879m) above sea level. This is Sweden’s highest-altitude paved road and is closed from mid-October to early June due to heavy snow. Once you descend, continue along more lakes and rivers to Vilhelmina, then circle back south to Strömsund to complete the loop.
Without stops you could drive this route in a day and see plenty of stunning scenery, but taking your time reveals many interesting sights and detours, including hiking trails, waterfalls, Sweden’s longest cave system, Sámí camps, local heritage centers, and a variety of guided outdoor activities.
Best Road Trip for Intriguing Natural Wonders
Indalsälven and the High Coast
Östersund-Örnsköldsvik; 240 miles (385km); 5-7 days
This route connects one of Sweden’s major rivers to one of its most geologically interesting stretches of coastline. As you follow Indalsälven through the beautiful Ragunda Valley, worthwhile stops include Döda Fallet (the Dead Falls), a striking display of nature’s power and human folly, and Thailändska Paviljongen, an authentic Thai pavilion commemorating King Chulalongkorn’s 1887 visit to the region.
Continue to the coast to explore Höga Kusten, a stretch of shoreline that has been rising steadily since the end of the last Ice Age. The region’s many attractions include hiking trails in rugged Skuleskogen National Park, spectacular views from Skuleberget, and various boat excursions.
Best Road Trip for Swedish Arts and Culture
Dalarna Circuit
Falun-Borlänge, 160 miles (257km); 3-7 days
A road trip through Dalarna is an opportunity to explore some of Sweden’s most beloved traditions and cultural icons, as well as striking scenery around Lake Siljan. The lakeside towns of Leksand, Rättvik, and Mora are centers for local music, folk dance, and handicraft traditions. North of Leksand, be sure to take the side road via the picturesque village of Tällberg. Near Mora, stop in Nusnäs to see hand-painted wooden Dala horses being made.
Other highlights include Falun, known for its historic copper mine, and the homes of the famous Swedish artists Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn.
Best Coastal Road Trip
Bohuslän Coast
Göteborg-Strömstad; 250 miles (400km); 3-10 days
Just north of Göteborg, Bohuslän is stunningly beautiful, with a jagged coastline dotted with picturesque villages and historic sites. While it’s just two hours from Göteborg to the Norwegian border by highway, taking your time on the smaller roads along the coast reveals why this is one of Sweden’s most popular summer vacation areas.
Attractions along the way include nature reserves, imposing fortresses, and Sweden’s first marine national park, Kosterhavet. Among the most beautiful communities are Smögen, Fjällbacka, and Grebbestad.
Best Road Trip for Castles and History
Around Lake Mälaren
Stockholm-Stockholm; 250 miles (400km); 2-7 days
The heartland of the Swedish kingdom for centuries, the Lake Mälaren region brims with fascinating history and lovely scenery. Surrounding the lake are enchanting towns such as Sigtuna and several impressive castles.
If you’re intrigued by ancient mysteries, don’t miss Anundshög, the largest burial mound in Sweden; or the Bronze Age rock carvings nearby. Historic churches, medieval cathedrals, and open-air museums also add to the allure of this trip.
Best Road Trip for Varied Attractions
Around Lake Vättern
Jönköping-Jönköping; about 200 miles (321km); allow 4-8 days
Long and narrow, Sweden’s second-largest lake is the centerpiece of a diverse route blending history, nature, and culture. Follow the eastern shore to Gränna, famous for striped candy canes, and continue onward to Vadstena with its renowned medieval abbey and impressive Renaissance castle.
Highlights on Vättern’s west side include Tiveden National Park and Karlsborg Fortress. If you have time, interesting detours around the lake include Visingsö island and the Göt Canal.
Best Road Trip Combining Nature and History
Skåne
Kristianstad-Ängelholm; 250 miles (400km); 7-10 days
Sweden’s southernmost province, Skåne, offers a diverse range of landscapes. This road trip encompasses rocky coastline, golden fields, and vibrant cities. Other highlights include medieval towns such as Åhus, Ystad, and the breathtaking gardens at Sofiero Palace.
Skåne also features three national parks, protecting unique landscapes. Take your time to explore and enjoy the dramatic coastal views and picturesque towns throughout this enchanting region.
Best Long-Distance Road Trip
Cities and Coasts
Stockholm-Göteborg or Vice Versa; 620 miles (1000km); 10-14 days minimum
Connecting Sweden’s three largest cities, this route highlights the best of southern Sweden, primarily following the coast. Along the way, notable stops include historical towns, castles, and beautiful beaches.
With countless opportunities to explore, this long-distance journey allows for a well-rounded experience of Sweden’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
