With its rich history and beautiful landscapes, Sweden really is a traveller's paradise. In the heart of Scandinavia, you can visit remains of the Viking period, megalithic monuments, or buildings from medieval times. However, the natural paradises that Sweden offers are often more attractive for many visitors. The country offers acres of unspoiled forests, beautiful coastlines, snow-capped mountains and majestic lakes to explore. The air and water are crisp and clean, roads and public transport are excellent, and the citizens are among the friendliest people in Europe.
Now, let's look at the 10 best places to visit in the Nordic gem of Sweden.
No. 10 - Marstrand
Just an hour's drive from Gothenburg, the picturesque city of Marstrand is one of the most beautiful on the Bohuslän coast. A popular playground for celebrities and royalty, it boasts a collection of ornate wooden homes and sailboats that line the bustling harbour.
It’s also home to the 17th century Carlsten fortress, where you can attend a Viking dinner and sample the Bohuslän cuisine. Another reason to visit the idyllic island of Marstrand is its close proximity to the sea. Local eateries offer an array of fresh fish and seafood and there are plenty of sea activities to fill your days with.
No. 9 - Linköping
Linköping is a vibrant city located in Östergötland County in southern Sweden. Linköping was a small town until 1937, when the Saab aircraft industry was formed, starting a period of rapid expansion. Today, with approximately 160,000 inhabitants, it is Sweden’s fifth largest city. Undoubtedly, the highlight of Linkoping, the cathedral, which dominates its skyline, is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe.
Linköping was the site for the final settlement of the dispute between king Sigismund III Vasa and his uncle Duke Charles, the latter prevailing in the battle of Stångebro in 1598. Today, the city is better known for its world-class technology and innovative University. Linköping offers a wealth of leisure activities to people of all ages and visitors are able to enjoy art, theatre, history, concerts, markets, festivals and sporting events.
No. 8 - Uppsala
Located just an hour’s drive away from central Stockholm, Uppsala is brimming with classic landmarks. Uppsala is home to Scandinavia's largest cathedral – Uppsala Cathedral, which was the frequent site of the coronation of the Swedish monarch until the late 19th century. Since 1164, Uppsala has been the ecclesiastical centre of Sweden, being the seat of the Archbishop of the Church of Sweden.
Uppsala castle, built in 1549 by King Gustav Vasa, is a former royal residence surrounded by lush greenery that is well worth a visit. Take a trip to the Linnaeus Garden for a peek at Sweden’s oldest botanical garden, which has been restored to the original 1745 design.
No. 7 - Karlskrona
The city of Karlskrona is spread over 30 islands in the eastern part of Blekinge archipelago, with Trossö being the main one. Karlskrona is known as Sweden's only baroque city, is host to Sweden's largest naval base and is the headquarters of the Swedish Coast Guard. Karlskrona was founded in 1680, when Karl XI decided to build Sweden's new naval base in the city.
In 1998, parts of the city's outstanding, well-preserved architecture, including the naval base, received UNESCO World Heritage status. Wherever you go, you can see evidence of this; magnificent churches, grand squares and parade streets that attract visitors from all over the world. Among the notable buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries is the Admiralty Church, the town’s oldest building and the largest wooden church in Sweden.
No. 6 - Lappland
Lappland is one of Europe’s last true wildernesses - a unique world, combining vast expanses of nature, authentic Sami culture and culinary specialities. With a grand mountain range, endless forest and pristine lakes, Lappland is a culture-rich natural wonderland that gives you the opportunity to be a true explorer. A place where reindeer outnumber people 3:1, Lappland is also one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Abisko National Park is particularly renowned for ideal aurora conditions.
The Torne river is one of the most productive salmon rivers in the world, with up to 100,000 fish ascending the water every summer on their way to their spawning grounds. Lappland is also a winter paradise with a long skiing season - you can even hit the slopes as late as midsummer. If you enjoy hiking, Kungsleden is one of the greatest long-distance hiking trails in the world.
No. 5 - Öland
Even though Öland is just across the bridge from Kalmar, the long, narrow island is a world apart in terms of landscape and nature. Southern Öland boasts incredibly beautiful scenery, with stone walls, wildflowers, windmills and rocky pastures. In the north of the island, you will find the spectacular beach of Böda Sand, and Trollskogen, a magical forest with fantastically twisted pine trees.
Öland is also home to two scenic lighthouses, Långe Erik and Långe Jan, which sit on the island’s northern and southern tips respectively. Another highlight is the impressive ruins of 17th-century Borgholms Castle. Öland is also one of Sweden’s top birdwatching destinations, with several nature reserves that attract both resident and migratory species.
No. 4 - Helsingborg
Helsingborg is a scenic coastal city in Southern Sweden which was once the site of numerous Swedish-Danish wars due to its strategic position on the Öresund, until 1710 when Danish invaders were finally defeated just outside the city.
Best known for its old town, Helsingborg is home to the 600 year old Kärnan tower, which overlooks the harbour. Nearby is the Gothic Church of St. Mary, dating from the 1300s. The neo-Gothic Town Hall, with its tall clock tower, features stained-glass windows depicting important episodes in the city's history.
Helsingborg’s delightful cobblestone streets, which in summer, thrive to the beat of a banging cultural drum, weave their way through the city, and the showcase of rejuvenated waterfront restaurants are not to be missed.
No. 3 - Visby
Visby is a medieval Hanseatic town, located on the island of Gotland. This enchanting fairytale town, boasts a delightful combination of cobbled lanes, pastel cottages, gothic churches, and well-preserved 13th century ramparts. Whether you’re looking for culture, good food, or just want to relax on the beach, this UNESCO World Heritage site has it all.
Visby, a former Viking site, is renowned for its 2 mile long city wall - a medieval fortification incorporating defensive towers, many of which are still intact. The wall encircles the centre of Visby and was initially built for protection against both foreign enemies and Swedish assailants from the countryside.
The town's remarkable churches include the grand St. Mary's Cathedral, and the medieval ruins of St. Nicolai, St. Karin and St. Clemens. The main square, Stora Torget, has cobblestone streets, lined with cafes and restaurants.
No. 2 - Gothenburg
Gothenburg, situated off the Göta älv river on the country's west coast, is Sweden’s second biggest city and is home to a vibrant cultural scene, world-class restaurants, sustainable living, and a fascinating history. Gothenburg was founded in 1621 by King Gustav II Adolf and established itself as an important commercial fishing hub. Though the city has modernised over the centuries to focus on other industries – such as being the birthplace of Volvo cars – its proud fishing heritage remains. There’s no better place to sample high-quality seafood than on these shores. You’ll be spoilt for choice thanks to its wide array of restaurants – from fine dining establishments to casual eateries, many of which focus on locally sourced fish and seafood.
This friendly city is known for its Dutch-style canals, Neoclassical architecture and leafy boulevards, like the Avenyn, the city's main thoroughfare, lined with many cafes and shops. Liseberg is a popular amusement park with themed rides, performance venues and a landscaped sculpture garden. Adventure is never far away in Gothenburg, with wide open spaces and magical archipelago islands waiting to be explored.
No. 1 - Stockholm
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is spread idyllically across 14 islands on an extensive Baltic Sea archipelago. Stockholm is known as one of the most inclusive and welcoming cities in the world. Its contemporary urban appeal is balanced with centuries-old history and closeness to nature. As for things to do in Stockholm, the list is endless.
The cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings of Gamla Stan, The city's oldest district, is the stuff of storybooks. One of Europe’s most enchanting and impeccably preserved historic centres, it is home to gems such as the 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral and the Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace.
Across the city, you will find a plethora of world-class museums and galleries, harbouring everything from glittering Viking treasures, to colourful Abba paraphernalia. It's a stimulating inspiring concoction, where the past, present, and future all meet.
Another activity not to be missed is an excursion to the Stockholm Archipelago. This is a stunning collection of nearly 30,000 islands, islets, and rocks - from Öregrund in the north to Landsort in the south - each with its own character. Rugged nature blends with wooded islands, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches. Enjoy tranquil coves or the open sea, explore uninhabited islets or islands with ancient villages. The Stockholm Archipelago is a must, during your time in the city.
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