Stockholm is one of the loveliest cities in Scandinavia. Apart from the northern lights, this city is probably the first thing people think of when they think of Sweden.
Every year, more than five million tourists travel to the gorgeous country of Sweden. Between the northern lights, waters, mountains, islands, forests, upbeat culture and more, Sweden is absolutely worth visiting.
Main towns and attractions
Stockholm
Stockholm is one of the loveliest cities in Scandinavia. Apart from the northern lights, this city is probably the first thing people think of when they think of Sweden. The island districts are connected via bridges and ferries and gives a unique character to the city.
While in Stockholm, visitors can see the royal apartments and crown jewels at the Kungliga Slottet, visit the Vasa and Abba museums, explore the Old Town known as Gamla Stan, and spend time over a casual lunch at the Östermalm food hall.
Lake Silijan
Lake Silijan is located about 100 miles northwest of Stockholm and is Sweden’s sixth largest lake. When the weather is nice, you can go fishing or go cruising on a boat, and take in the amazing views all year round.
Malmö
Malmö is a coastal city in southern Sweden. There is a cobblestone square, the Malmo castle, and about 15 minutes outside of Malmo’s city center, you can visit the extravagant Oresund Bridge that now links Sweden and Denmark.
Lapland
The Lapland is located in the far north of Sweden and is home to the Sami, Sweden’s indigenous people. You can explore the great Arctic North and even visit the Abisko National Park that is 77 square kilometers of pristine Nordic wildlife and beauty. Whether during winter or summer, there are plenty of activities to do in the national park and the Lapland in general.
Practical advice for travelling in Sweden
Language awareness
In Sweden language awareness is key. The pronunciation of the Swedish language is rather difficult and you may not be able to become conversational just a couple weeks before your trip. However, thankfully apps like Babbel are a great aid when travelling and can easily help you with the language while in Sweden. For example, you can refer to the app for those crucial phrases to get around. English is widely spoken in Sweden, as well.
Speed limits are not consistent
If you are planning on driving a rental car during your holiday in Sweden, be aware of speed limit signs while out on the roads. There are in-between speeds in additional to the usual ones, such as 30, 50, 70, and 110km/h that you will need to adhere to, as well!
Pack for the season
Sweden has true seasons, so you will want to pack accordingly and always have layers. Sweden is notorious for its cold winter months, so if you visit during this time of year, plan ahead! Think down jackets, fleece-lined leggings, big scarves, and warm hats that will keep the heat in.
Money saving tips while travelling in Sweden
Bring a reusable water bottle and drink the tap water
The tap water in Sweden is well filtered, and that in combination with its environmentally conscious citizens, you won’t see many people, if any, walking around and drinking from plastic water bottles. So bring your own reusable water bottle and drink water straight from the tap!
Save where you can on food and drinks
Food adds quickly while in Sweden. You can find affordable meals at street vendors, limit your meat and cheese intake since they are expensive items here, go for beer instead of wine or cocktails while out, and buy alcohol at the government-run Systembolaget otherwise.
Book ahead
Booking last minute can get quite expensive in Sweden, so plan and book ahead to save some money. Even one day can make a huge difference in prices.
Sweden has a unique natural beauty and character that you can see and feel throughout the country. After all, there is a reason why so many activities here are based outdoors.. so you can see and appreciate all that Sweden has to offer.
Free-spirited world traveler. Loves nature and the environment. When she’s not hiding behind her computer working on a new editorial project, you will probably find her browsing museums or rescuing stray cats.
