12 Unforgettable Experiences in Sweden
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 is evident in everything from science and technology 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 about Sweden’s capital. Stockholm is truly a charmer.
The city boasts enough museums, historic buildings, and attractions to keep you busy for weeks. However, some of its greatest pleasures are the simplest, 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, and catch a summer sunset over Lake Mälaren.
2. Island-hop in the Stockholm Archipelago
Comprising around 30,000 islands and skerries, the scenic Stockholm archipelago is a paradise waiting to be explored. If you’ve got limited time, soak up some island vibes at Fjäderholmarna, just a 25-minute boat ride from downtown Stockholm. Alternatively, indulge in 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 offer great day trip spots as well as accommodations for extended stays.
3. Take a Hike
Swedes cherish nature so much 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 it’s 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. An excellent public transportation network makes even remote trails accessible by bus, train, or ferry.
Planning tip: Although the right to roam is an intrinsic part of Swedish society, certain conditions exist to preserve the landscape for everyone. Be sure to check the relevant rules before setting out to ensure a wonderful experience.
4. Cruise the Götaland Canal
One of the most ambitious construction projects in Swedish history, the Götaland Canal connects the Baltic Sea with the country’s largest lakes, linking up with the Trollhättan Canal. This remarkable journey, complete with 66 locks and two aqueducts, reveals lush green countryside, quaint villages, and stunning attractions.
A canal cruise is a delightful way to explore the scenic routes, with itineraries ranging from day trips to multi-day journeys on historic canal boats.
5. Explore Southern Sweden on a Bike
Another fantastic way to experience the Götaland Canal is by cycling along the towpaths—87 car-free kilometers 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 both day trips and long-distance journeys. The 274-km trail runs south from Växjö through the fields and forests, and along the coast, past white-sand beaches and historic cities. Along the scenic west coast, a journey on Kattegattleden spans 390km all the way to Gothenburg.
6. Ride the Rails on Inlandsbanan
For a rail journey through Sweden’s wildest and most beautiful scenery, take a ride on Inlandsbanan (the Inland Line). Starting in Mora in Dalarna, this train travels north to Gällivare, about 100 km north of the Arctic Circle, making numerous stops along the way.
Grab the opportunity to visit attractions such as the Arctic Circle and enjoy local history and museums that unveil the rich heritage of this remarkable region.
7. Search for the Northern Lights
Sweden’s far north is widely recognized as one of the best places to witness the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), particularly between September and March. Few sights can compare to the magic of watching brilliant waves of color dance across the darkened sky.
Abisko National Park is famed for its clear skies and position within the auroral oval, making it an excellent location for experiencing this natural phenomenon. Kiruna also serves as a great base for many tour companies offering guided excursions to see the Northern Lights.
8. Paddle a Scenic Waterway
Sweden’s long coastline, thousands of lakes, and numerous islands make it an exceptional paddling destination. In Stockholm, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards at various locations. For a more natural escape, the Bohuslän coast and Skåne’s rugged peninsula are fantastic kayaking destinations.
Sweden’s inland waterways, including its approximately 100,000 lakes, offer endless scope for paddling, with equipment rentals and guided tours readily available throughout the country.
9. Savor the West Coast Lifestyle
(Some people call Sweden’s west coast the “best coast.” While this may spark some debate, there’s no denying its charm. The vibrant port city of Gothenburg, known for festivals, restaurants, shopping, and attractions, serves as the region’s undisputed hub.
After exploring urban delights, head north to Bohuslän, an almost impossibly beautiful region of indented rocky coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages alive during the summer months.
10. Eat Your Way Through Sweden
While Sweden is perhaps best known internationally for meatballs and pancakes, it has cultivated an exciting culinary scene, blending classic dishes with international influences while emphasizing sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. From Michelin-starred establishments to casual cafes, you’ll discover fantastic venues to sample Sweden’s culinary delights throughout the country.
Immerse yourself in Swedish food culture by taking a seafood safari, touring vineyards, or foraging for wild mushrooms and berries that Swedes cherish as “forest gold.” A guided foraging walk in Swedish Lapland is an excellent way to learn more about the country’s edible nature.
11. Road Trip Through the Swedish Countryside
With well-maintained roads and spectacular sights scattered throughout the countryside, Sweden is ideal for a driving vacation. Although major highways provide quick routes, the true joy of a Swedish road trip lies in meandering via secondary roads through dense forests, charming small towns, and past captivating lakes.
Planning tip: Keep in mind the elevated costs of car rentals and fuel in Sweden. To save money and minimize environmental impact, consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle. Charging stations are widely available throughout the country.
12. Visit Castles, Palaces, and Fortresses
Sweden boasts hundreds of historical castles, palaces, and stately homes, particularly concentrated in the southern part of the country. Explore the majestic Royal Palace in Stockholm or stroll through the gardens of picturesque Drottningholm Palace.
For a taste of history, visit Renaissance castles such as Gripsholm, Vadstena, and Kalmar. Don’t forget the intriguing fortresses like Vaxholm Fortress and Carlstens Fästning, which recount tales of Sweden’s past.
