· SE

Sweden

Discover the Magic of Sweden: Where Modernity Meets Nature Sweden, a land of enchanting forests, shimmering archipelagos, and vibrant cities, beckons with a unique blend of modern sophistication and captivating history. …

#Scandinavia#Northern Europe#Stockholm#Swedish culture#Baltic Sea

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Sweden.

Top Hotels in Stockholm

Top Flights to Stockholm

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Sweden.

Tours

Explore Gamla Stan in Stockholm

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, Gamla Stan, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant historical atmosphere.

Shopping

Shopping at Nordiska Kompaniet in Stockholm

Visit the iconic department store NK, offering a range of Swedish and international brands.

Outdoor

Ice Hotel in Jukkasjärvi

Experience the unique Icehotel, built each year from ice harvested from the nearby Torne River.

Hiking in Abisko National Park

Trek through the beautiful landscapes of Abisko National Park, known for its stunning views and natural phenomena like the Northern Lights.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Sweden.

Currency

kr | SEK | Swedish Krona Sweden

Population

10.4 million

Languages

Swedish, Swedish

Average weather

Sweden

Jan

-1°-6°

Feb

0°-6°

Mar

3°-3°

Apr

9°1°

May

16°6°

Jun

21°11°

Jul

23°13°

Aug

22°12°

Sep

17°9°

Oct

10°4°

Nov

4°0°

Dec

1°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Sweden.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Sweden:

Stunning Natural Beauty: Sweden is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-capped mountains. The country's natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
Rich History and Culture: Sweden has a fascinating history dating back to the Viking era, and you can explore historic sites such as medieval castles, ancient rune stones, and well-preserved old towns. The country also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and music festivals celebrating Swedish heritage.
Modern and Sustainable Cities: Sweden is home to modern and eco-friendly cities such as Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. These cities boast innovative architecture, efficient public transportation systems, and a strong emphasis on sustainability, making them pleasant and convenient places to visit.
Delicious Cuisine: Swedish cuisine is diverse and delicious, with specialties such as meatballs, herring, and gravlax. You can also enjoy fika, the Swedish tradition of taking a coffee break with pastries, as well as sampling local delicacies like cloudberries and smoked reindeer.
Safety and Quality of Life: Sweden consistently ranks among the safest and happiest countries in the world, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a peaceful and high-quality travel experience. The country's efficient healthcare system, clean environment, and friendly locals contribute to its high standard of living.

Overall, traveling to Sweden offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, modern amenities, and quality of life, making it a fantastic destination for all types of travelers.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Sweden include:

High cost of living: Sweden is known for being an expensive country to visit, with high prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation. Travelers should be prepared for potential budget challenges.
Cold weather: Sweden's climate can be quite cold, especially in the winter months. Travelers should pack accordingly and be prepared for potentially harsh weather conditions.
Limited daylight hours: During the winter months, Sweden experiences short daylight hours, which can impact sightseeing and outdoor activities. Travelers may need to adjust their schedules accordingly.
Language barrier: While many Swedes speak English fluently, the official language is Swedish. Travelers who do not speak Swedish may encounter some communication challenges, especially in more rural areas.
Seasonal variations: Sweden experiences distinct seasonal changes, with long, dark winters and short, mild summers. Travelers should be aware of these seasonal variations when planning their trip.

Overall, while Sweden is a beautiful and welcoming country to visit, travelers should be aware of these potential cons and plan accordingly.

Sweden, officially the Kingdom of Sweden, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe. It has a rich history that stretches back thousands of years.

Prehistoric and Viking Era

Prehistoric Period: The area now known as Sweden has been inhabited since the end of the last Ice Age. Evidence of human habitation dates back to around 12,000 BC.
Viking Age (circa 800-1050 AD): Sweden was part of the Viking world. Swedish Vikings primarily traveled eastwards, engaging in trade, exploration, and settlement in areas that are now Russia and Ukraine. They played a crucial role in the formation of the early Russian state.

Middle Ages

Formation of a Kingdom: By the 12th century, Sweden began to emerge as a unified kingdom. The introduction of Christianity in the 11th century, primarily through figures like Saint Ansgar, marked a significant turning point.
Kalmar Union (1397-1523): Sweden joined the Kalmar Union, a series of personal unions that united the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch. This union was often fraught with conflict, leading to Sweden’s eventual exit.

Early Modern Period

Gustav Vasa and Independence: In 1523, Gustav Vasa became king after leading a successful rebellion against the Danes, marking the beginning of a consolidated Swedish state and the end of the Kalmar Union.
Protestant Reformation: During Gustav Vasa's reign, Sweden became a Protestant country as the Lutheran Church replaced the Roman Catholic Church.
Great Power Era (1611-1718): Under kings like Gustavus Adolphus, Sweden rose to become a major European power. It played a significant role in the Thirty Years' War and expanded its territories across the Baltic region.

18th and 19th Centuries

Great Northern War (1700-1721): Sweden's empire began to decline after losing the Great Northern War to the Tsardom of Russia, led by Peter the Great.
Age of Liberty (1718-1772): After the death of Charles XII, parliamentary governance and freedom of the press increased.
Gustavian Era: Gustav III's reign saw a return to royal power, followed by his assassination in 1792.
19th Century Changes: In 1809, Sweden lost Finland to Russia. The country underwent significant political reforms, including the adoption of a new constitution in 1809 and the introduction of a bicameral parliament in 1866.

Modern History

19th Century Industrialization: Sweden transitioned from an agrarian economy to an industrial society. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw significant emigration to the United States.
World Wars: Sweden remained neutral during both World War I and II, although it faced pressures from both the Allies and Axis powers during the Second World War.
Post-War Era: After WWII, Sweden developed a comprehensive welfare state and experienced an economic boom. It became known for its policy of neutrality and non-alignment.

Recent History

EU Membership: Sweden joined the European Union in 1995 but has retained its currency, the Swedish krona, instead of adopting the euro.
Modern Developments: Sweden continues to be known for its progressive social policies, high standard of living, and innovation in technology and design.

Significant Historical Figures

Gustavus Adolphus: A key figure in establishing Sweden as a major European power.
Queen Christina: Known for abdicating the throne and converting to Catholicism.
Alfred Nobel: Inventor of dynamite and founder of the Nobel Prizes.
Olof Palme: Influential Prime Minister known for his international diplomacy and social reforms, assassinated in 1986.

Important Landmarks

Stockholm Palace: The official residence of the Swedish monarch.
Drottningholm Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the private residence of the royal family.
Vasa Museum: Houses the Vasa ship, a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage.
Gamla Stan: The old town of Stockholm, with medieval alleyways and historic buildings.

Sweden's history is marked by its transition from a warrior kingdom to a peaceful, progressive nation with a strong emphasis on democracy, equality, and the welfare state.