Sweden is a northern Europe country celebrated for its fascinating past, incredible cinema, thrilling car races, breathtaking nature, and the iconic IKEA brand, to name a few. There are so many things to do in Sweden, whether you are interested in its rich history or its vibrant present, home to large and beautiful cities. Once your Sweden visa requirements are fulfilled, there are many places to visit for vacations with friends and family.
1. Explore Stockholm’s Gamla Stan
Attractions abound in Stockholm, but one of the must-sees among them is the island of Gamla Stan, the city’s Old Town. Spend some time exploring the cobblestone streets, discovering the Royal Palace’s architectural beauty, and don’t forget to visit the interior of St. Nicholas Church.
Location: Gamla Stan, Stockholm, Sweden
Open: Open 24/7 (shops and attractions have varying hours)
2. Experience the Northern Lights
If you want a fairy tale to come true, visit Swedish Lapland within the Abisko National Park. You can witness the Northern lights from here, making it one of the world’s best spots to catch this breathtaking spectacle. It offers different types of guided tours to engage in various outdoor activities such as dog sleds and snow shoes, making it an exciting tour.
Location: Abisko National Park, 981 07 Abisko, Sweden
Open: Accessible year-round, best viewing from late September to April.
3. Visit the Vasa Museum
The Vasa Museum is in Stockholm and houses the Vasa, a 17th-century warship that sank on its first voyage. That perfect combination makes the museum very interesting if only to examine the region’s rich maritime history and the magnificent ship that has been restored.
Location: Galärvarvsvägen 14, 115 21 Stockholm, Sweden
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm (until 6 pm in summer)
4. Discover the Archipelago
Sweden also has a vast archipelago, with more than 30,000 islands dominating the geographical background. Sweden: Stockholm’s Archipelago is one of the best places for those who want to view different parts of Sweden’s breathtaking natural landscape.
Location: Ferries depart from Slussen, Stockholm, Sweden
Open: Varies by ferry service; generally from 8 am to 10 pm.
5. Explore Malmö’s Turning Torso
Malmö is noteworthy for its spectacular postmodern architecture, with the Turning Torso standing as its most significant example. This twisting skyscraper is 190 meters tall; it is one of the most peculiar buildings and an innovative icon. Malmö is a bustling city full of shops, places to eat and drink, and greenery everywhere.
Location: Västra Hamnen, 211 15 Malmö, Sweden
Open: The building is not open to the public, but the area is accessible 24/7.
6. Visit the Icehotel
You can visit the Icehotel, the world’s only hotel built entirely using ice and snow. Every year in winter, it is transformed into a winter wonderland where artists from around the world build amazing sculptures and rooms, and hence every time it is a unique experience.
Location: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Open: Check specific dates. Open from December to April, and Icehotel 365 is open year-round.
7. Explore Gotland’s Medieval Town of Visby
Sweden is very much like Finland in terms of the landscape. But it has a rich history, and one of its significant areas is Gotland which is an island. The medieval town of Visby in Gotland is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also stroll along the nicely preserved city walls and thresholds, discover several centuries-old churches, and dine in charming boutiques and cafes.
Location: Visby, Gotland, Sweden
Open: Open year-round; specific sites may have varying hours.
8. Enjoy the Swedish Fika Tradition
The Fika is one of the quintessential Swedish traditions you must experience during the visit. This popular practice is a short break to recharge with coffee and pastry, mostly featuring a cinnamon bun or a cardamom roll. Sweden has numerous interesting cafés where people can sit, chat, and relish delightful sweet snacks.
Location: Various cafés throughout Sweden. Popular spots include Café Schweizer in Stockholm.
Open: Most cafés open from 8 am to 6 pm.
9. Discover the History of Uppsala
Uppsala is considered one of Sweden’s oldest cities and is famous for its university and historical attractions. Take a tour of Uppsala Cathedral, the largest church in Scandinavia, and visit the Gustavianum Museum, which exhibits the university’s history.
Location: Uppsala, Sweden
Open: Historic sites like Uppsala Cathedral are open from 10 am to 5 pm.
10. Visit Kiruna and the Icehotel 365
The Icehotel 365 is an all-year-round version of the Icehotel, located in Kiruna, in northern Sweden. You can admire the ice sculptures and interiors here while enjoying elegant guest comforts throughout the year.
Location: Marknadsvägen 63, 981 91 Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
Open: Icehotel 365 is open year-round; check for specific tour availability.
11. Take a Cruise Through the Stockholm Archipelago
That makes taking a scenic cruise one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the Stockholm Archipelago. Sign up for a day cruise that leads to several islands and offer astonishing views of the cliffs and small towns and villages.
Location: Various departure points in Stockholm; common at Strandvägen or Slussen.
Open: Varies by cruise operator; generally from 10 am to 6 pm.
12. Explore the Royal Palace in Stockholm
The Royal Palace of Stockholm is the largest palace in Europe and the residence of the Swedish monarch. Tourists can visit the palace, which hosts several museums and the Royal Apartments. Watch the guards outside the palace, and find out more about the Swedish monarchy.
Location: Slottsbacken 1, 111 30 Stockholm, Sweden
Open: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm (extended hours in summer).
13. Visit the Midsummer Celebration
If you are in Sweden in late June, don’t overlook the Midsummer celebration. This traditional holiday is held in the summer, and people dance around the maypole, sing, and eat herring and new potatoes. Performing in Midsummer is one of the most fun things to do in Sweden, as it enlightens on the fascinating Swedish culture.
Location: Various locations across Sweden; popular at Skansen, Stockholm.
Open: Annual event, typically celebrated in late June.
14. Experience Swedish Design in Gothenburg
Gothenburg is famous for its active design district and contains several museums and galleries of Swedish design. Make sure to go to the Röhsska Museum of Design and Decorative Arts and walk in the Haga district with its bohemian shops and cafes. Gothenburg also has several design events and festivals; therefore, it is best for design lovers.
Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
Open: Various museums and shops open daily; typically 10 am to 6 pm.
15. Have Fun at Liseberg Amusement Park
Prepare for a day of thrills and fun at Liseberg Amusement Park in Gothenburg! This park offers a variety of rides, games, and entertainment options for everyone. Enjoy delicious refreshments, attend colorful concerts, and soak up the festive mood. It’s an excellent spot to have lasting experiences with family and friends!
Location: Örgrytevägen 5, 412 51 Gothenburg, Sweden
Open: Varies by season; typically open from April to October.
Summing Up
Sweden is a country of stunning natural beauty, a long history, and a unique culture. Precisely, it always brims with exciting things to do and places to visit. From its beautiful countryside and interesting cities to its rich cultural history and vibrant nightlife, one can safely say that Sweden is a destination that can cater to everyone’s needs and wants in Northern Europe’s realm of tourism. Visit our page, ‘Tourist Attractions in Sweden,’ to learn more about tourist places in Sweden.
FAQs
1. What are the recommended seasons to travel to Sweden?
The best times to travel to Sweden are during the summer, from June to August, to enjoy sunshine and barbeques, or in winter, from late September to April, for skiing and other seasonal activities.
2. What are the entry requirements to Sweden?
Entrance visa regulations vary by country of origin. EU/EEA passport holders do not require a visa to enter, while others require a Schengen visa. Be sure to read the Sweden visa requirements before your visit.
3. What is Fika and where can I find it in Sweden?
Fika is a short break during working hours where people enjoy coffee and pastries. You can find it in many cafés across Sweden, even more so in Stockholm and Gothenburg, because the warm vibes and tasty snacks go hand in hand with the beverage.
4. Are there family entertainment options available in Sweden?
Yes! Indeed, you can have a lot of fun in Sweden with your family by visiting attractions such as amusement parks, for instance, Liseberg, interactive museums, and even engaging yourself in outdoor activities.
5. What are the available options for touring the Stockholm Archipelago?
Visit the Stockholm Archipelago on a ferry or a boat trip from Stockholm to see the stunning islands. Some remarkable features include daily and frequent services between different islands, with most tours featuring kayaking and dining.