Curious about the best places to visit in Sweden? Sweden, situated in Northern Europe, is a Nordic country blessed with a diverse landscape rich in both flora and fauna. Along its coast, you’ll find thousands of islands, and within its borders lie some of Europe’s last surviving wilderness areas. Sweden’s rich heritage, steeped in history and folk traditions, boasts treasures like palaces, castles, medieval towns, ancient churches, and old ships.
For those who love the outdoors, Sweden offers plenty of hiking options. Intriguing, right? Eager to explore? Let’s dive into some must-see spots in Sweden.
Stockholm – Start your journey in the capital, Stockholm. The city is famed for its archipelago and waterways, making island hopping a must. Whether you take a ferry between islands or join varied excursions ranging from a couple of hours to multi-day tours, there’s plenty to see. Don’t miss the metro, which feels like visiting an art exhibition due to its beautifully designed stations. Check out some of the most stunning metro stations in Stockholm. Also visit Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old City Center, renowned as one of Europe’s best-preserved historic city centers. Another highlight is Drottningholm Palace, the private residence of the Swedish royal family, often called the “Versailles of the North,” which dates back to the 17th century and features extensive gardens.
Gotland – Known as the “Pearl of the Baltic,” Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and a beloved holiday spot. With its mild climate and sandy beaches, it’s perfect for a getaway. Visit Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “City of Roses and Ruins.” This well-preserved medieval city is best visited during early August for the Gotland Medieval Week, which features jousting tournaments, plays, markets, street theatre, and participants in medieval attire.
Gothenburg – Sweden’s second-largest city, Gothenburg, is a charming maritime metropolis. Rich in history, it’s still the nation’s key port. In Gothenburg, explore its parks, scenic canals, and the historic town of Haga with quaint cobbled streets and wooden houses. The Maritime Museum offers insights into the city’s maritime history. Don’t miss the largest botanical garden in Sweden, Gothenburg’s Botanical Gardens, which spans 175 hectares and features over 16,000 plant species.
Smögen – This trendy holiday resort is celebrated as Sweden’s liveliest summer town, adored by locals and tourists alike. Smögen is known for its charming wooden houses and natural scenery. Enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk, dine in waterfront cafes, or take a ferry to Hållö, a nature reserve with a historic lighthouse dating back to 1842.
Sigtuna – As Sweden’s second-oldest town and first capital, Sigtuna is a historic and popular destination about 45 minutes from Stockholm, making it an excellent day trip. Even with limited time in Sweden, you can visit Sigtuna’s medieval churches, castles, ruins, and Viking-era runic stones.
Lapland – If you love wildlife, nature, and snow, head to Lapland in northern Sweden, bordering Norway and Finland. Known for its cold, snowy winters, stunning nature, and Northern Lights, Lapland is a winter paradise. Enjoy activities like dog sledding, reindeer sledding, or ice climbing. Abisko is a prime spot to witness the Northern Lights, visible from September to March. Hikers can take on the 440 km King’s Trail (Kungsleden), one of the world’s most renowned trails that passes by Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain.
Örebro – Örebro Castle, located on an island in Svartån, is a medieval gem dating back to the 13th century. Once a prison and royal residence, it was rebuilt in the 1890s, acquiring its impressive round towers. Today, it’s the official residence of the county governor, with an exhibition in the Northwest Tower highlighting its history.
Sweden has an abundance of beautiful places waiting to be explored, from the vibrant cityscapes and historic towns to the serene natural landscapes and adventurous trails. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply soaking in the local culture, Sweden has something for every traveler.