Experience Sweden's Varied and Charming Destinations
Stylish towns, serene natural scenery—Sweden is full of experiences that answer to all tastes. Whether it were the historical, culture-steeped streets or the serene beauty of coastal vistas that seduced you, here are some of the top destinations to discover:
Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, is a city spread across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren flows into the Baltic. It's steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Take walks along the narrow cobblestone alleys of the Old Town, Gamla Stan; visit the very interesting City Hall and Royal Palace; or take a boat tour to see this archipelago's beauty.
Gothenburg is simply easy and carefree, a feeling that one would otherwise associate with small towns, located as it is on Sweden's west coast. Kissed by 17th-century canals and busy squares, the dynamic Kungsportsavenyn Boulevard with its cafes and restaurants takes you to cultural wonders like Gothenburg Museum of Art and Maritiman, a maritime museum placed upon historic ships.
Between Norway and Gothenburg lies Bohuslän, with its central yet rough piece of coastal scenery full of picturesque towns. Be amazed by the Carlsten Fortress from olden times, which sits on Marstrand Island, admire the ancient petroglyphs near Tanum, and relax in the nice waterfront villages that include Smögen and Fjällbacka.
Dalarna — Known from its cultural heritage, it's an opportunity to get closer to Swedish traditional arts and handicrafts. Come to Nusnäs and see the craftsmanship behind those iconic Dala horses, explore Falun's historic copper mine—not long since closed—at least now a tourist attraction, and immerse yourself in the artistic legacies of Carl Larsson and Anders Zorn.
For over 1,500 years, Uppsala has been a city of knowledge and faith: The ancient, mighty burial mounds rise at Gamla Uppsala; grandiose architecture characterizes Uppsala Cathedral. Take a stroll through the Linnaean Gardens, with all their different botanical beauties, and explore the lively university and cultural attractions of the city.
Lappland—this northernmost region in Sweden offers endless wilderness and alpine landscape attractions, along with a view of the aurora borealis. Hike the Kungsleden trail through national parks like Abisko, which often offers ideal conditions to witness the aurora borealis, or explore the Sámi culture in Jokkmokk.
The High Coast, Höga Kusten, has risen dramatically since the end of the Ice Age and offers great hiking trails with wide views down from Skuleberget. The area gives geological wonders in Skuleskogen National Park and scenic islands like Ulvön and Trysunda for a more profound experience of Sweden's natural beauty.
Skåne: Once belonging to Denmark, Skåne would give a strong impression of both Swedish and Danish origin expressed in architecture and culture. Visit medieval towns like Lund and Ystad, be inspired by the modern structures Turning Torso in Malmö, or just relax in diversified landscapes of beaches, forests, and classic castles of Skåne.
From these vantage points in Sweden, visitors can either gain insight into history, revel in nature, or explore the vast weave of culture this Scandinavian country brings forth. Make some lifelong memories across Sweden's rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
