Best places to visit in Sweden
Sweden offers various landscapes, history, and culture, making it a fantastic destination for travellers. Whether you're drawn to its modern cities, historic sites, or vast wilderness, there's something for everyone. This article provides insights into the best places to visit in Sweden for those who want to explore the country's offers.
Stockholm
Sweden's capital is a stunning blend of modernity and history across 14 islands. Known as the "Venice of the North," Stockholm offers a mix of attractions like Gamla Stan (the old town), the Royal Palace, the Vasa Museum, and the modern ABBA Museum. The city also has beautiful parks, waterways, and trendy neighbourhoods like Södermalm.Must-See: Take a ferry to Djurgården for museums, green spaces, and attractions like Skansen (an open-air museum).
Gothenburg (Göteborg)
On the west coast, Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city, known for its charming canals, seafood, and cultural festivals. It's a more laid-back city than Stockholm, with a friendly atmosphere and an excellent dining scene.Must-See: Liseberg, Scandinavia's largest amusement park, and Slottsskogen, a vast park with a zoo and picnic areas. Don't miss the Göteborg Botanical Garden, one of Europe's largest.
Malmö
Connected to Copenhagen via the Öresund Bridge, Malmö offers a mix of modern architecture, multicultural vibes, and historic charm. The city is home to landmarks like the Turning Torso skyscraper and the Malmö Castle.Must-See: Ribersborgsstranden beach, Folkets Park, and the hip neighbourhood Möllevången with its markets and street art.
Visby, Gotland
The medieval town of Visby on the island of Gotland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved city walls, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old buildings. Gotland is a summer paradise with stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and Viking history.Must-See: Visby City Wall, Almedalen Park, and the annual Medieval Week, a festival celebrating the town's rich history.
Lapland (Sápmi)
Swedish Lapland is the place to go for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. It's one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights, experience dog sledding, reindeer safaris, and learn about the indigenous Sami culture.Must-See: The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Abisko National Park for Northern Lights viewing, and Kiruna, where you can explore the world's largest underground iron mine.
Åre
Sweden's premier ski resort, Åre, is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. In the winter, it offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, while in the summer, it offers hiking, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities.Must-See: Åreskutan Mountain for hiking or skiing and the beautiful Tännforsen Waterfall, Sweden's largest.
Kalmar
A historic city on Sweden's southeastern coast, Kalmar is known for the Kalmar Castle, a beautiful Renaissance fortress, and its well-preserved old town. The city offers a glimpse into medieval Sweden and serves as a gateway to Öland, Sweden's second-largest island.Must-See: Kalmar Castle, Kalmar Cathedral, and Öland's windmills and beaches.
The High Coast (Höga Kusten)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the High Coast is famous for its unique landscape, shaped by glacial rebound after the Ice Age. It's a hiker's paradise with stunning cliffs, archipelagos, and coastal views.Must-See: The Höga Kustenleden hiking trail, Skuleberget Mountain, and Skuleskogen National Park.
Uppsala
Uppsala is one of Sweden's oldest cities, known for its prestigious university and cathedral. It's a city full of history, with connections to the Vikings, famous scientists like Carl Linnaeus, and rich Swedish traditions.Must-See: Uppsala Cathedral, Gamla Uppsala (an ancient burial site), and the Linnaeus Garden.
Smögen
A small but picturesque fishing village on the west coast, Smögen is famous for its colourful wooden houses, a bustling boardwalk, and fresh seafood. In the summer, it becomes a hotspot for boating and enjoying the Swedish archipelago.Must-See: The Smögenbryggan (boardwalk) for seafood restaurants and boat tours, and nearby Hållö Island for its lighthouse and rocky landscapes.
Sigtuna
Sigtuna is often called Sweden's first town, a charming and historical destination near Stockholm. Founded in the late 10th century, it boasts old stone churches, Viking rune stones, and well-preserved medieval streets.Must-See: Sigtuna Museum, St. Olaf's Church Ruins, and Lake Mälaren for a relaxing day by the water.
Västerås
Located near Lake Mälaren, Västerås is a mix of modern urban life and history, home to Anundshög, Sweden's largest burial mound. The city also has a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks.Must-See: Anundshög, the Västerås Cathedral, and the Vallby Open Air Museum.
Source photos: Canva
Linnea, OLS Community Manager – Swedish