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Sweden Travel Guide
Things to See and Do in Sweden
Sweden? on the Desert Island Survival website? Yes, and yes. We have added this stunning part of the world to our rostrum, in the form of an Alone style solo survival adventure. Sweden is a country of remarkable beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Stockholm to the serene landscapes of Swedish Lapland, there’s no shortage of incredible sights and experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore Sweden’s top attractions, hidden gems, and everything in between. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a long stay, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. Discover the top things to do in Sweden, highlighting a mix of nature outings, urban experiences, and cultural activities.
Discovering Stockholm
Stockholm City Hall
One of the first stops for any visitor to Sweden is Stockholm City Hall. This iconic building, known for its stunning architecture and rich history, is a must-see. Stockholm City Hall is famous for hosting the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Guided tours are available, offering insights into its historical significance and architectural splendour.
Gamla Stan: The Old Town
Stockholm’s Gamla Stan is a beautifully preserved medieval town. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, visit historic buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Gamla Stan is home to several museums, shops, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon exploring.
The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Stockholm is one of the largest palaces in Europe. It’s the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family and a major tourist attraction. The palace offers guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its opulent rooms and learn about Sweden’s royal history.
Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum is one of Stockholm’s most famous attractions. It houses the Vasa ship, a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was salvaged in the 20th century. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into Sweden’s maritime history and is a must-visit for history buffs.
Nobel Prize Museum
Located in the heart of Gamla Stan, the Nobel Prize Museum celebrates the achievements of Nobel laureates. The museum offers interactive exhibits and guided tours, providing an in-depth look at the history and impact of the Nobel Prize.
Exploring the Stockholm Archipelago
A Maritime Wonderland
The Stockholm Archipelago is a stunning collection of over 30,000 islands, each with its unique charm. From bustling harbour towns to quiet, uninhabited islands, the archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Island Hopping Adventures
One of the best ways to explore the Stockholm Archipelago, nestled in the Baltic Sea, is through island hopping. Regular ferry services and private boat tours make it easy to visit multiple islands in a single day. Popular islands to visit include Vaxholm, Grinda, and Sandhamn, each offering beautiful beaches, quaint villages, and outdoor activities.
The Beauty of Nature
The Stockholm Archipelago is renowned for its natural beauty. The islands are covered in dense forests, rolling farmland, and picturesque coastal spots. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and bird watching, or simply relax and soak in the stunning views.
Northern Sweden: A Wilderness Adventure
Swedish Lapland
Swedish Lapland, located north of the Arctic Circle, is a land of breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of Sweden and a top destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Known for its pristine wilderness, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. It’s also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months.
The Ice Hotel
Located in Jukkasjärvi, the Ice Hotel is one of Sweden’s most unique tourist attractions ever. This hotel is entirely made of ice and snow, and it is rebuilt every year. Visitors can stay overnight or take a guided tour to marvel at the stunning ice sculptures and intricate designs.
The Northern Lights
One of the main reasons tourists visit Swedish Lapland is to witness the Northern Lights. The auroral oval, which circles the magnetic poles, makes northern Sweden one of the best places to see this natural phenomenon. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from late September to early April.
Southern Sweden: Historical and Cultural Treasures
Malmö: A Cultural Hub
Malmö, located in southern Sweden, is the country’s third-largest city and a cultural hub. The city boasts a mix of historic buildings and modern architecture, including the famous Turning Torso. Malmö is also home to a vibrant arts scene, numerous museums, and excellent restaurants.
Gothenburg: A Maritime City
Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, is known for its maritime heritage and vibrant cultural scene. The city offers a range of attractions, including the Gothenburg Museum of Art, Liseberg amusement park, and the picturesque Haga district.
Drottningholm Palace
Drottningholm Palace, located on the island of Lovön near Stockholm, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the private residence of the Swedish Royal Family. The palace and its beautiful gardens are open to the public, offering guided tours that provide insights into its history and architecture.
Göta Canal
The Göta Canal, often called the “Blue Ribbon” of Sweden, stretches from Gothenburg north to Stockholm. This historic waterway is a popular destination for boating, cycling, and hiking. The canal passes through beautiful countryside, charming towns, and historic fortresses.
Experience Sweden’s Natural Beauty
National Parks
Sweden is home to numerous national parks, each offering unique landscapes and outdoor activities. From the rugged mountains of Sarek National Park head north to the pristine beaches of Stenshuvud National Park, there’s something for every nature lover.
Swedish Archipelagos
In addition to the Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden boasts several other beautiful archipelagos. The Gothenburg Archipelago, for example, offers stunning coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages. These archipelagos are perfect for island hopping, sailing, and exploring hidden coves.
Lakes and Forests
Sweden’s landscape is dotted with thousands of lakes and vast forests. Lake Vänern and Lake Vättern are the two largest lakes in Sweden, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The country’s dense forests are perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and experiencing the tranquillity of nature.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
Medieval Churches and Historic Buildings
Sweden is rich in cultural and historical heritage. Medieval churches, such as Lund Cathedral and Visby Cathedral, are architectural marvels that offer a glimpse into the country’s past. Historic buildings and fortresses, such as Kalmar Castle and Gripsholm Castle, are also worth exploring.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Sweden is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Drottningholm Palace, the Hanseatic town of Visby, and the rock carvings in Tanum. These sites offer a fascinating look at Sweden’s history and cultural heritage.
Festivals and Traditions
Sweden is known for its vibrant festivals and traditions. Midsummer, celebrated in late June, is one of the most important Swedish holidays. The festivities include dancing around the maypole, enjoying traditional food, and celebrating the longest day of the year. Other notable festivals include Lucia Day in December and the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm.
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sweden depends on what you want to do. The summer months (June to August) are ideal for exploring cities, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing the country’s festivals. Winter (December to March) is perfect for those wanting to see the Northern Lights, go skiing, or stay at the Ice Hotel.
How Many Days to Spend
To truly explore Sweden, plan to spend at least 7 to 10 days. This allows enough time to visit major cities, explore the natural beauty of Swedish Lapland and the archipelagos, and experience the rich cultural heritage. However, even a shorter trip of 3 to 5 days can provide a good taste of what Sweden has to offer.
Travel Costs
Sweden is not known for being a cheap destination, but there are ways to manage your budget. Consider staying in hostels, using public transportation, and dining at local eateries. Many museums and attractions offer discounts or free entry on certain days.
Getting Around
Sweden has an excellent public transportation system, including trains, buses, and ferries. The train is a convenient way to travel between cities, while buses and ferries are perfect for exploring more remote areas and islands.
Join Our Sweden Alone Solo Survival Expedition
Do you watch the show Alone and crave to experience it for yourself? Now it’s your turn to live cut off from the world, building a shelter and foraging for your food. First, however, you need to learn the skills, so we have brought in past contestants of the show to teach you all the bushcraft and survival skills to equip you.
For the first 4 nights, it is survival light. We all camp in the woods together in our own tents, cooking communally and eating together around the campfire. Each day is packed with nature walks, bushcraft development, great eats, and a lot of fun.
After a 4-day crash course (quickly developing you into a bushcraft champ), it’s time to hike out to your lakefront home for the next 3 nights with little more than your knife, pot, and sleeping bag. Sh*t’s about to get real. This is your real survival challenge, there is no one else to rely on but yourself. What will you prioritize first? Shelter, water, fire, or food?
After the third night, when you are either hitting your wall or ready for another 3 months, you are rescued (with a cold beer or coke and snacks) to head back to what now feels like a 10* hotel, for a survival feast and story swapping with all the other survivors.
Why Visit Sweden?
Sweden offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Stockholm, hiking in the wilderness of Swedish Lapland, or island hopping in the Stockholm Archipelago, there’s something for everyone. From the stunning Northern Lights to the historic Vasa Museum, Sweden is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
Ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime? Join Our Sweden Alone Solo Survival Expedition and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Sweden. Book your trip today and discover why Sweden is one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
Explore Sweden with us and create memories that will last a lifetime. Visit Desert Island Survival to learn more and book your adventure.
FAQs
How Many Days Should I Spend in Sweden?
To get a comprehensive experience of Sweden, plan to spend at least 7 to 10 days. This duration allows you to explore major cities, enjoy natural landscapes, and immerse yourself in Swedish culture. If your schedule is tight, even a 3 to 5-day trip can give you a good taste of what Sweden has to offer.
What is Sweden Most Famous For?
Sweden is best known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and innovative design. Iconic attractions include the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland, the historic Gamla Stan in Stockholm, and the unique Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi. Sweden is also famous for its contributions to music, fashion, and technology.
Is Sweden Cheap for Tourists?
Sweden is generally considered an expensive destination, but there are ways to manage costs. Staying in hostels, using public transportation, and dining at local eateries can help keep expenses down. Additionally, many museums and attractions offer discounts or free entry on certain days.
Join us on our Sweden Alone Adventure or check out our other travel guides